My Final Pregnancy Post - 37.5 weeks

In 29 hours (when I started writing this post), Jason and I will be heading to the hospital to deliver our sweet baby boys! Wow, in just a little over a day we will be holding, kissing and loving on our blessings we have prayed so much for. I can't believe the time has finally come. I always imagined what it would feel like, but I realize that I couldn't back then. For as real as every moment is, the surrealness of parenthood is all around. I am not sure when it will sink in; perhaps when we hold Gavin and Wyatt for the first time on Monday, but perhaps not truly until we bring them home.

I think back to a year ago. It was last March that I started taking fertility treatment in preparation for in-vitro. I look back and read through my thoughts during that time and those leading up to it. I had no idea what was ahead of us; only that God was with us and leading. I never could have guessed just how much He would be with us and how thankful I would be for His ever presence. It warms my heart knowing as we cried out to Him over a year ago, He already knew and loved our sweet Gavin and Wyatt! God is so very amazing and leaves me in awe.

Looking back on this pregnancy, I can honestly say that I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this gift God has granted us. (enjoyed the process, not the 'unfun parts' of course!) Like every stage in my life, I try to get the most out of everything so I can look back without regrets; high school, college... and now pregnancy. I can honestly look back and say I treasured each stage. Now that it's time for delivery, I feel no sadness about 'not being pregnant' as you hear some experience. I thoroughly love feeling our boys grow and move in my tummy, but I am completely ready for the next very special stage in our lives! I want to watch them grow and not just feel them. I am ready not to be pregnant any more.

Fear... I wouldn't say Jason or I are fearful of parenthood or anything that comes with it. We are so excited to embrace life with our boys. We both consider having twins to be a great experience we are thankful to be blessed with. We can't wait to watch them grown into the young men God created them to be. More than fear, I think right now everything just feels surreal as I mentioned above.

The house is completely ready for the boys! The car seats are in the van! The hospital bag is technically packed minus last minute items we'll be using in the next 29 hours! What a beautiful feeling knowing they'll be here soon!

Fear... While Jason and I are not fearful of parenthood, I have to admit I'm slightly nervous about a C-Section. I know it's 'routine' these days and I trust my doctor and more importantly God, but still... it's a little nerve wracking knowing you'll be cut open and exposed! I pray recovery goes well too. I guess the unknown can make one a bit nervous, but nothing I won't get through. I pray that God continues to give me the peace only He can give. I do honestly feel a little like the special process of birth is taken away from me having to have a C-Section, but I realize this is how God wants it and thus, nothing is being taken away. This is a blessing instead and perfect for our family. It's just another part of life when I realize that God gives each of us what is perfect for us... He gives others what is perfect for them... all is well when we do not compare or hold expectations.

Speaking of expectations... Jason and I are trying not to have any expectations about anything the next several months. I've read many books, have ideas on how we want to do things, but realize that each baby is different as is each family. We will take one day at a time and figure out what works best for Gavin, Wyatt, Dad and Mom. Without having expectations, we free ourselves to enjoy each stage without becoming disappointed or irritable at how things are or are not going.

We filled out Gavin and Wyatt's birth certificate paper work and got everything in order for their new pediatrician. These two steps did make it seem even more real, although still hard for my mind to comprehend! I love signing paperwork for them and having to fill out 'relation' as Mother! What a great feeling!

My mom, grandma, sister and brother arrived today from El Paso! So thankful they were here a little before the boys are born and of course that they'll be here on Monday! Tomorrow morning we are going to have coffee and cinnamon rolls with Jason's mom and my family. After some visiting, Jason and I will be left at home for our 'last evening' before the boys arrive. Not sure if we will try to see a movie or stay in and just snuggle, but either way, we are looking forward to this special time. Then we'll try to get some sleep before leaving the house at 5 am on Monday! I'm looking forward to the adrenaline I'll be getting this week, because without it, I don't think I'll manage. Sleep just isn't my friend and won't be for a while!

I'll have to update this post with pictures soon, but for now, I wanted to make sure I captured just a few of my thoughts before we sing Happy Birthday to Gavin and Wyatt!

36.5 Week Update

Here is the most recent picture of Wyatt at 36.5 weeks. He's just adorable! I got to see him blinking his little eyes, opening and closing his mouth and even sticking out his tongue. It's starting to get even more real now. Gavin was looking down, so we still didn't get to see his sweet little face... boo. But... we'll get to see him in less than a week! See below for more info about my appt today.

GROWING FAST!!!!! Those two words sums up this past week. I can't get over at how fast the boys and I are growing! I thought we grew fast before, but this has to be by far the most in one week. My tummy is stretching so much, and is becoming so very heavy and feeling bruised. My belly button has popped 100% now and the lower part is hanging so much from boy's weight and the way they are sitting. I feel like they could just split my skin and come out any time.

The past few days I've actually been able to sleep more! It's still not 'normal rest', but I'll take anything I can get! Sunday morning I actually woke up feeling like I did back in January! Wow, what a gift from God to feel that much better! I think I over did it though, b/c by the late afternoon I was swollen and back to normal, but yay for a great morning!!! It's amazing how much better we can handle things when we get some sleep.

The boys haven't been as 'crazy' lately with their movements. They still move all the time, but it's a lot slower these days; more pushing and stretching vs jumping and rolling. Guessing that is because there isn't a lot of room any more! But because of that, I have been able to enjoy rubbing their little arms and legs! Yes, that' right, I sit here and can feel from the outside what seems long and skinny... only thing it can be is an arm or leg. Now, I'm not sure which it is though or if it's Wyatt's or Gavin's because of their positions... And then sometimes I can feel this tiny little bump and I know it's their little hands and feet. Oh, that is so cute too! And I just love how their heads fit into my hand now. I'll rub their heads and let them know how much I love them. I'm hoping they'll be used to me rubbing on them and be snuggle bugs when they are born! At least for a little while until they start wrestling with Daddy!

As you can see from my first photo, my doctor appointment was today and went really well. I started to cry as I watched our little guys on the ultrasound. They look like newborns now and it's just all getting so real and exciting! Oh, I can't even imagine what it will be like to hold our sons for the first time... just can't imagine! A few notes about our appointment:

• Gavin is still breech and Wyatt is transverse, so we'll stick to my scheduled C-Section on Monday the 7th. I have one more doctor appointment on Thursday and then a pre-op appointment at the hospital on Saturday and then the big day on Monday!
• I'm still only 1 cm dilated, but now about 50% effaced. Doctor said I'm still doing great and expects me to make it to Monday... but of course, only God knows.
• The boys are looking great and just as active as ever.
• My blood pressure is still good which is such a blessing.
• Still swelling like crazy, but because of the good blood pressure and other good results, no worries there.
• The estimates today showed Gavin to be about 6 lbs 5 oz and Wyatt to be about 5 lbs 14 oz. These of course are just estimates, but the doctor said expect 6 lb something boys next Monday. We are all very happy with their growth; very healthy boys! Their weight gain has slowed down some, but I can't expect any thing different with over 12 lbs of baby in me already... it's just getting so crowded in there for them. I keep telling them one more week and they'll be able to stretch out as much as they want!

I think that about sums it up for the updates. One week from tonight and we'll be snuggling our little blessings!!!

36 Week Update

Today I turned 36 weeks and thus start my 37th week! Only 10 more days until my scheduled C-Section on the 7th! Some days the 7th seems so far away and others it is just around the corner (all depending on just how uncomfortable I'm feeling!). My spirits are up, but I'm surprised at just how much the end of this pregnancy is getting to me. I'm so uncomfortable and the lack of sleep is hard. Yes, I know sleep will be greatly treasured and limited when the boys get here, but at least when I do sleep, it will be real sleep and I won't be so darn uncomfortable physically. I mean seriously... I just want to be able to pick up something off the floor, put on pants without having contractions, get on and off the pot easily, get into bed and roll over w/o feeling like my ribs will break, get into and out of the tub, sit with my legs closed, etc... The swelling has really gotten bad the past couple of weeks, but nothing that alarms the doctor. Swelling tends to be 'worse' with twins due to the extra placenta, so I guess I'm pretty lucky it's not even worse. The swelling is all over as you can see from my cute chubby face, but it's really my legs and feet that are the worse. It's down right scary sometimes at how bad it looks! But my blood pressure and all still looks great, so that I am very thankful for!

I noticed some very faint lines two nights ago and thought perhaps they might be the first sign of strech marks... Well, this afternoon, they were verfied along with a matching set on the other side. I've been growing so fast this past week, I guess it's to be expected. Having well over 12 lbs of baby already I guess I shouldn't be surprised a couple have popped up. I'll continue to lotion up, but hey, I guess it's just part of it. It will match nicely with my C-Section scar in the end ;)

Today I had my second appointment for the week and it went well as usual! The boys are doing so great and are so active. Makes this mommy very happy! I'm measuring about 52 weeks along... yeah, that's right... my tummy is huge! It's strange how they say '52 weeks', but technically that is just the centimeters your belly is from bottom to top. It varies depending on the boys positions... I've started to dilate a little; only about the size of a finger tip. And I'm about 30% effaced. Doctor said this is all normal and I'm looking great! Unless my blood pressure changes, she expects me to easily make it to the 7th. I go in on Monday to get an ultrasound to see if Gavin has flipped and is no longer breech. Neither the doctor nor I think he has moved though... but we will see. I'm not ruling out a natural delivery, just not getting my hopes up either! I know God is in control and He will allow me to go through the type of delivery perfect for me and the boys.

Jason and I spent last weekend getting the house completely ready for the boys. All laundry is done and things in their places. All I need to do is pack my hospital bag just in case I go in to labor a little early (although I don't feel like I will...). It's so wonderful to see the house ready for the boys! It makes my heart so full of joy!

Oh, I can't wait to meet Gavin and Wyatt; our two little blessings! I love them so much. I just want to hold them, kiss them, feed them, and nurture them. I can't wait to see their individual personalities and who God made them to be!


These two pictures were taken earlier this week at 35.5 weeks. Notice how my tummy is starting to hang at the bottom... it's so heavy!!


This picture below was taken at 35 weeks.

Less Than Three More Weeks!!

During my doctor's appointment yesterday, we discussed 'delivery'! Can't believe it's already that time... Right now (34.5 weeks) Gavin is still breech, so if he doesn't flip 180, I will be having a C-Section. We went ahead and scheduled the delivery for March 7th! That's right, less than 3 weeks now! At that time I will be 37.5 weeks along which is great.

If Gavin flips between now and then, we'll aim for a vaginal birth. As the weeks go on though, it will be harder and harder for the boys to move that much; it's just so cramped in there. But God knows what is best and what He wants, and I trust Him to lead. I ask for peace and health for us all throughout the delivery, whether C-Section or vaginal.

I could still go in to labor before March 7th, so the doctor will continue to monitor me twice a week just to make sure everything is going smoothly. We'll see what my body has planned.

During my weekly measurement, the doctor measured me to be about 43-44 weeks along size wise. That means if I had a singleton pregnancy, my tummy would be the size of one 43-44 weeks along. Yes, that's about 9-10 weeks further than I am at 34.5 weeks!

The house is ready for the boys. All we need to do is wash the clothes, blankets, etc. We will be putting the car seats in the van this week and I'll be packing my hospital bag in the next week also. Can't believe it's getting so close!

I started to feel like I'm catching a cold last night, which is frustrating b/c there is nothing to really take (and I really don't want to take anything either). I called the doctor today and they gave a few recommendations. But the problem is they don't cover my symptoms... everything I need to feel better is a no-no right now. So I'm eating lots of fruit and veggies and drinking even more water trying to flush out my system. I pray this ends soon. I can't even sleep it off b/c sleeping is so rough these days.

Yes, I'm still not sleeping well. Between the heartburn and being so uncomfortable, nights are still not my friend.

The boys are doing great though! So thankful for their health and high activity. I love them so much. Well worth everything! We can't wait to meet our lil' guys and give them lots of hugs and kisses!

33.5 Weeks Update

Well, I'm 48 inches around now! The boys continue to grow rapidly. I'm starting to feel them stretching out in new places of my tummy; a sure sign that they are growing even more! A few things to note from this past week or so:

• The swelling continues to increase. I hadn't gained weight in about 2 weeks and then all of a sudden, boom... weight gain in just a few days as my body started to retain the water more. You can really see it in the picture above in my feet (and everywhere I guess...sigh...) and this was a 'good' day. Days when I do 'too much', my feet are ginormous. Large indention's can be left in them. My thighs and arms are really water logged too; I feel like a giant water balloon. But nothing 'unhealthy' so far. Dr is more than content with my status.


• I'm still experiencing the Braxton Hicks; some days a whole lot more than others. The doctor checked my cervix and verified that all is perfect and no dilation yet! I'll continue to 'try not to overdo it', elevate my feet and drink lots of water.


• I've been organizing a whole lot and getting the house ready for the boys! We have the pack-and-play set up in our room, as well as everything organized. I'll wash clothes probably sometime next week and then set up blankets, diapers, etc around the house in the places I think I'll want them. It's so exciting to see things ready for our sweet boys!


• My belly button has 'popped', or at least as much as I think it will. I still have a small portion that never fully popped, but now the belly button is starting to poke out and thus I think it's safe to say I've popped. But unlike the saying goes, we are NOT done... still have lots of growing to do to make sure the boys are nice and healthy before they are born!


• Yesterday was one of my two weekly appointments. An ultrasound was taken, but we didn't get any pictures this time :( Both boys are doing great! They are estimating Gavin to be about 4 lbs 14 oz (just about 5 lbs) and Wyatt to be 5 lbs 8 oz; very big boys already! Can't believe I have about 10.5 lbs of baby in my tummy already! Both boys have flipped 180 degrees since our last ultrasound... Gavin is now breech; his head on my left side. Wyatt is still transverse, but his head is now on my right side. Gavin will need to turn back head down in order for me to have them naturally. If he doesn't turn, then a C-section will have to be done. I'd really like to have a natural birth for so many health reasons for the boys and me, but I feel confident that their birth is in God's hands. Only He knows what is best for all three of us, and I trust Him completely. If we end up having to have a C-section, the dr probably won't let me go past 37 weeks, which will be the first week of March. If Gavin does turn head down, then it will likely just come down to when my body wants to go into labor. I tell you though, if I haven't gone into labor by my 38th week, I won't mind trying to jump start labor on our own by walks, etc...!
• Some days are easier than others and by far, the days are easier than the evenings. It's getting to the point that I'm pretty uncomfortable, but I'm still so happy. As the days go, I can tell I'm more tired and unable to do half of what I want to do. But we knew Feb would be like this. My job now is to take it easy and keep our boys in as long as possible.
• I'm still not sleeping well at night. Not only do I wake up about 5-10 times to go potty (only b/c the boys are pressing on my bladder...), but most nights I just can't sleep. I can't sleep b/c I'm so uncomfortable, painful heartburn or just insomnia. I'm up on average 1.5 to 3 hours each night. I'm so thankful I don't have to wake up early to get ready for work. Don't think I could do that at this point with the lack of sleep at night.
• We've taken the birthing classes at the hospital. It's been a good experience, but can't say we've learned a whole lot. It's nice to at least hear some information again and learn what to expect.

I'm sure there is more, but I'll have to capture that in the next post. Until then, I'll be enjoying our boys growing and playing!!

32 Week Update

The boys and I are GROWING... That about sums it up for now! All I can say is GI-NORMOUS and pretty uncomfortable ;)

...Plus what an AMAZING BLESSING they are!!!!!

31 Weeks Update

A few notes from the past couple of weeks (sorry for the very random order, that's kind of how my brain works these days...):

• Last week at my 30 week checkup, the dr estimated Gavin to weigh about 3lbs 12oz and Wyatt to be about 3lbs 9oz. Can't believe how fast they are growing! Everything is looking great for both the boys and myself.
• I go back to the dr next week (32 wks). From then on out, I'll be going in twice a week. I'll see the dr only once a week, but I'll be having a form of a 'stress test' twice a week in which they will monitor the babies' heat rates, movements, contractions, etc... I can't believe it's already to that point!
• We got all of our Christmas decorations packed and put back in the attic. I packed the boxes and Jason did ALL the heavy lifting and moving. Despite my lack of moving and lifting the boxes, I was still so very sore... One would have thought I had run a marathon or participated in the Olympics the way I felt afterwards! But it's all done and the house is redecorated!
• We got the carpets steam cleaned this week! After 3 years with animals, we thought it best to get them cleaned before Gavin and Wyatt arrive! Some day we'll get wood floors, but for now, they are at least clean and ready for the babies!
• We ordered a whole bunch of goodies for the boys; the things we'll need their first month. We figured we'll buy the other stuff after they are born, but some things we'll need right away. It's all in the process of being shipped! All that we really need to buy now is the toiletries (diapers, formula back up in case breastfeeding doesn't work out, laundry detergent, etc...).
• Probably early Feb, I will begin to wash the clothes, put up their 'bassinet' in our room (we are using a pack and play for the first few weeks), put out a few of the swings, install the car seats, etc. That way if the boys decide they want to come early, we'll be ready! I'll also be packing my hospital bag early.
• I've spent a lot of time reading and researching all sorts of topics about newborn care, twin care, delivery, etc... While it's mind boggling at first, it's wonderful and exciting at the same time!
• I've decided I need to create a 'birth plan' even though I'm having twins. Mine will be different from most people's b/c I'll have to think of lots of scenarios. We are still aiming to have a natural birth, but know that anything can happen. We'll try to deliver vaginally if both boys are head down, or if Gavin is head down and Wyatt is 1) breech and 2)smaller than Gavin. We'll use a C-Section as a last resort, but my doctor will not be taking any risks on me or the boys! Still undecided about meds, but figure I have time to think more about this and then also play it all by ear once labor starts. It really depends on if I'll be 'induced' or go into labor naturally.
• So the swelling has been about the same lately, until yesterday! I've been doing a whole lot more activity lately and yesterday my feet showed it! I was taking a shower and went to wash my legs and feet (which is no simple task these days people!)... when I looked down and wondered who's body I was looking at... There were these flinstone feet looking back at me! Awwwww... talk about a freaky feeling...
• Like I said, I've had a lot more activity lately and it's been catching up with me. It seemed like I was having a lot more Braxton Hicks the past several days. I didn't have even one yesterday though and I think it's b/c I was in the sitting position for a lot of the day!
• Some days knowing the boys will likely be here within the next 6 weeks seems like they are coming tomorrow... other days it seems so far away! Every day I seem to grow more uncomfortable. The idea of getting even bigger for over a month doesn't seem too great any more, but then I remind myself that they need this time to continue to grow and develop. God will get me through! I'm amazed at what our bodies can handle! I may feel 'out of shape', but my body is doing a great job taking care of me and the boys! For this I'm thankful and will give it a rest!
• I'm still not sleeping the best, but I did have a good night's sleep once last week and then last night! But I'm here tonight at 2am wide awake and thus decided to write on the blog.
• The boys are getting even stronger (I know I say this each time, but it's true!!)! Sometimes their movements really do hurt. I can tell my muscles are getting sore in spots that they kick often. Lately it seems as if they like to randomly play on one side of my tummy... this is not fun at all people! My tummy is tight as it is, but then to have them both on one side feels awful! I nicely ask them to move back and begin to pushing them softly until they move. The boys thought it was fun last night and did it 3 times...
• They had so much fun playing yesterday! I don't think they slept much at all. The boys were rolling, kicking, punching... just having a ball. I thoroughly enjoyed it (even though it's pretty uncomfortable at times).
• As I mentioned, it's getting pretty tight in my tummy. I can see that some days my tummy will grow 'outwards' around my belly button, and then it will be followed by growth right under my chest. I'm also spreading out on the sides a lot more. It makes sense to me though, b/c the boys have to fit somewhere! Gavin is further 'back' than Wyatt, which means he's been kicking my organs more, whereas Wyatt has been kicking out towards my skin more. Just starting yesterday, Gavin's been kicking my hip and pelvic bones. Since he's getting so much stronger, it's not feeling too good. Wyatt is so high, that it's really uncomfortable at times and I have to sit straight up and slant my body to try to make more room around my right ribs!
• Despite the uncomfortable feelings, I LOVE feeling them move! There is always a little 'hard spot' sticking out of my tummy at some point or another... a little bum, head, hand, foot, etc... I LOVE to rub the boys and let them know I'm here and thinking about them. I can tell that they are responding more and more to my rubs! Can't wait to hold them and watch them look at me as I rub them as if they recognize that I'm the one who's been doing that the past couple of months!
• Jason and I took the hospital tour last Tuesday. It was pretty exciting! Both of us really like the hospital and staff. I had to pre-register before hand, which entails signing consent forms for both me and each baby. For the babies' forms, I had to sign, print my name and then right 'relation'... yup... my first time writing 'Mother' on a legal document. The lady asked me, 'how did that feel?' and I just looked up crying saying how great and surreal it felt! What a gift!
• Jason and I took at 'Newborn Care' class at the hospital earlier this week. It was pretty good. I think the best part was the experience of it all, but don't think I learned anything new. I'm taking a breastfeeding class tonight which I'm excited about, and then we are taking a 'Infant CPR and safety' class next week. I haven't registered yet, but I'll likely take the 'Lamaze' class in Feb to prepare for delivery in case I don't have to have a C-section!

I'm sure I'm forgetting some things I wanted to mention, but I'll have to cover that next post. I might try to see if I can fall asleep soon! Rest sure would be nice!

29 Week Update

Wow, I can't believe I'm already in my 3rd Trimester! I'm amazed at how fast time flies; but then again, I knew it would, which is why I'm so thankful I've made such a strong attempt to enjoy every day of this pregnancy. Below are some things I'd like to capture about our boys and our journey the past few weeks:

• They continue to grow really fast! I'm amazed at how much I'm growing and how fast, but so thankful my skin is stretching fine up to now. My bellybutton is almost flat these days. I can't imagine how big I'm going to be in the end, but time will tell! At 28 weeks, the doctor estimated Gavin to be about 3lbs 2oz and Wyatt to be about 2lbs 12oz. Both babies are still big for a Singleton; meaning they are even bigger for twins! So we are heading down the road to having big healthy boys. They are getting pretty crowded in there though, so getting a good ultrasound of them is pretty hard to do.
• Both boys are getting so strong. I'm so enjoying their movements. Sometimes they are just so active and strong, the only way I can describe the feeling is 'weird'... It feels like they are going to come out of my skin! Gavin not only kicks, punches and smooshes my bladder, but he has taken to 'kicking my butt' as well. This is the strangest feeling ever... Just the past couple of weeks, I've been able to tell when a shoulder, butt or foot/hand presses out. I LOVE to rub them; it's almost like I'm getting a chance to nurture them and love on them, even though they are still in the womb.
• Gavin had moved head down at my last appt and changed sides so his butt was on top of Wyatt's head! Wyatt is still transverse but is really stretched out since Gavin has moved!
• I have not been sleeping well at all the past couple of months. The past month has been pretty awful. I either just can't sleep, my arms fall asleep, my ribs feel like they are being crushed or I have heartburn so bad. Many of nights (most I would guess) I'm up for a good 2 hours trying to feel better.
• I can tell I'm starting to get more tired again these days. Perhaps it's because the lack of sleep at night. They are building a house behind us though, so no naps for me. I hear banging all day long!
• The swelling has started or shall I say continued since my last post about it. My face is swollen, my arms and legs and my feet. It's not as bad as it will get, but it's for sure present. My joints are actually so sore because of it.
• I'm just overall pretty uncomfortable these days. Because of that, I've taken to nice baths probably once a day (most of which are right before bed or in the middle of the night!).
• The Braxton Hicks contractions have started, but they are not painful. My tummy will just get in a tight ball (making it harder to walk or move), but then go back to normal. I've seen an increase in these the past week, but still not too many. Doctor said that is completely normal and no worries. My cervix still looks great, as well as my blood pressure, blood work, etc...
• The past couple of days I've started to get more 'pains' throughout my tummy. I think most of this is the muscles stretching like crazy. I do think I pulled a side muscle the other day though, which made it even more difficult to get around.
• I'm not as hungry as I used to be, but still eating healthy. I just notice I don't need snacks and I can go a long while w/o eating. Probably b/c there isn't much room any more! My meals are starting to have to be a lot smaller, and when I 'over do it', I'm miserable... I'm learning how to adjust to make sure they get all the nutrition they need.
• We are going to put away Christmas decorations this week and then start getting the house ready for the boys. We want almost everything done by Feb since I have a feeling next month is going to be pretty hard for me to do much of anything. That means we have lots of shopping to do, items to put out and together and clothes to be washed!
• I've been reading lots of books about feedings, sleep routines, and twins in general lately and preparing a 'flexible plan' so we know what we want to do and how to do it. It's so different with twins, so we are just planning early!
• We will likely take a tour of the hospital this week and then start a few classes the following week. Again, we want to make sure there isn't much left to do in Feb!!

I'm sure there are a lot more that I'm forgetting, but I'll post on that next time! For now I have a dr appt this week. I won't get an ultrasound, which will be the first time this whole pregnancy! I'll go back in two weeks and then from then on, it's every week! Can't believe we are at that point already!

Christmas Party and BirthDate

This past Friday was Jason's work Christmas party. It was fun getting dressed up, even though I didn't get to wear a more formal dress this year. I'm very thankful for pretty maternity outfits these days, and simple dresses can be easily dressed up with the right accessories! Jason looked extremely handsome as always in his suite!



My birthday falls on a Tuesday this year, so we decided to celebrate this Saturday. Jason took me out to A Christmas Carol at the Alley Theater. We are both always so impressed with people's talents. We had a wonderful time. We then went to Peli Peli for a great dinner. The food and atmosphere is wonderful and we enjoyed ourselves. Afterwards we relaxed at home and then headed off to the VFW again for a little dancing as we did a month ago (Family Night). Well, we only ended up being able to stay about an hour b/c all of a sudden people started to light up :( We were both so sad that people were smoking and we weren't able to stay. But, before they did, our first hour was a lot of fun! We got to dance to a few songs and honestly did pretty good... just can't dance to too fast of beats ;) My spinning was even better this time! It sure does feel different though the bigger I get.

25 Week Update - Swelling Increases

So... the past couple of weeks, I've noticed that I'm starting to swell... I'm admitting you can really start to see the water retention in these photos and some of the ones in the previous post. I knew I was swelling a little more, but I couldn't avoid it last night as I tried to put on my boots... They barely went on and then Jason had to help me out of them so quickly b/c it hurt so bad... how sad that my boots are too tight these days :( The doctor has always been amazed that I hadn't been swelling more until now. With twins, swelling is worse than with a singleton pregnancy b/c you have more placenta which causes the swelling. Guess it's my time to bring on the swelling. Still wearing my wedding band, but decided my Aggie ring will have to sit in a drawer until after birth. It still fits, but is pretty hard to get off ;)

I see myself getting larger and swelling and a very small part of me sighs. But only a very small part, because the rest of me is loving my changing body. I'm being as healthy as I can, but truly enjoying this wonderful season we've been blessed with. When I feel our little guys moving inside of me, oh, my heart skips a beat and I'm in heaven. Jason also has been so wonderful... he makes me feel beautiful and desired all the time. I am so thankful for his support and love!

Oh, have to share one more thing... I've mentioned our lil' guys getting stronger... well, there have been a few times they kick so hard it really does hurt. Not just kicking my bladder and ribs hurt, but kicking my stomach hurt... wow, can't imagine when they are 4-5 lbs bigger how it will feel...

Our Family Update - 24 weeks

Here are some of the pictures Jason and I took today. I want to thank him for being such a great sport and spending so much time trying to get the right shots; it's still hard trying to take pictures of ourselves! Hope you enjoy!

24 Week Update

• During Thanksgiving (23 weeks), Gavin and Wyatt were moving like CRAZY!! It's amazing at how strong they are getting. Then that Tuesday after Thanksgiving, I could tell I started to grow a whole lot faster. The boys became calmer (although still moving plenty) during this growth spurt as well. Just yesterday they started to move more and today they've been having a ball again. I love just sitting and watching my stomach move. No longer does it take a strong kick to get them moving, but a simple movement sends my tummy rolling! They are so strong and I can tell are getting so big. I have another dr appt this week and look forward to seeing them again!
• I've been having some issues with my sciatic nerve this past week, as well as heart burn. I've also been a lot sleepier the past week which has been great seeing how I couldn't sleep much the month before. Laying down is uncomfortable until my body gets used to it. Half way through the night, I normally get pretty comfortable enough to just sleep.
• I haven't been as hungry lately which is also nice! Still eating healthy, but not starving. The doctor said I gained weight too fast last month, but honestly, there is not much I can change to avoid that. After spending some time stressing about it, both Jason and I agreed that it was best for me to stick with my current good habits instead of risking not proving enough for our babies. This month the weight has been increasing normal, which is good! Guess the boys and my body just go through phases.
• We put up Christmas decorations inside and love the way the house looks! As we put up the tree, I couldn't help but smile and cry as I thought that this time next year we'd have 10 month old lil' boys helping us decorate and admire the tree!
• I've been enjoying making a scrapbook to record our 'journey through infertility and pregnancy'! So far I've done about 5 pages and really like how it's coming along! Using my Cricut is wonderful... so much easier than doing it all by hand like we used to have to!

22.5 Week Update and Photo Shoot

This journey through pregnancy has been amazing and I will be forever thankful for our blessings God has entrusted us with. I love our little Gavin and Wyatt so much and can't wait to see who God made them to be. The past couple of weeks our little guys have been getting stronger; their movements are starting to feel different as they gain strength and grow rapidly. The past couple of days they have been very active and seem to be getting into routines of play and sleep. I truly love feeling them roll and kick inside of me. I am forever in awe at this beautiful process of life God has given us.

Gavin and Wyatt - 20 Week 5 day Ultrasound Pics!

This afternoon Jason and I got to enjoy watching our little boys move around during our doctor's appt. Both babies are healthy and are looking and doing great! Below are some of the ultrasound pics they provided us! I wish we had a video to share, b/c that's when you can really see them and get a better feel for how they are looking. The 3D pictures themselves are still real blurry and don't show the babies' true shape. But we love them and it's wonderful getting a sneak peak!





During the visit Baby A kept stretching his neck back and forth for us; almost like he was trying to show us a new trick he just learned! (This process kept pressing his face into the placental wall, which made it difficult to take the 3D picture of him! So for now, we'll just have to guess a little more what he's looking like since he was having too much fun playing!)

Both A and B were touching their face a whole lot during the visit which was fun to watch. It was wonderful watching them move and play!

It was great fun watching and feeling Baby B kick at the same time. He did this a lot during the appt!

Mommy Update:

Just this past Saturday, I've started to experience a lot more heartburn daily as well as some slight swelling in my hands and feet. The swelling is not bad at all yet, but just something I'm starting to notice. The doctor said I'm lucky to just now be starting to feel it... Also, the hormonal tears are starting as well this past week. Sometimes I want to just sit and cry over nothing... I took a photography class yesterday and think I almost cried 5 times for no reason... just 'sentimental' these days I guess. It's pretty funny actually unless I'm out in public ;)

20 Weeks Update

This past week the babies and I went through a major growth spurt! I'm always pretty uncomfortable the 2-3 days of 'growing' and the babies aren't quite as active during that time. But as soon as I start to feel better the babies start playing like crazy. I've been enjoying them moving like crazy the past few days; they are getting stronger and stronger. I think I feel another growth spurt coming on which is about right b/c it seems like I have one a week these days.

Here's a silly picture for you; showing off my 'curves'!



This morning I woke up and made Gavin's and Wyatt's 'name plates' to go above their cribs in the nursery. Here's a sneak peak before we hang them in the room!

19 Week Update and More

Well, the past 7 weeks or so have just flown by... the last puppy was picked up this week so they are now all with their new families. It's so hard to see them go. We do enjoy seeing the joy and excitement from their new families though! Right now we are trying to get things back to normal...

so...

Today we took Pickles and Noodles to Bridgeland's Howl-o-ween Fest. It was a lot of fun getting out and seeing all the kids and pouches! Our two were 'big hits' as we walked around... everyone kept saying, look at the twins or look at their ears! It's always fun taking them out places. We enjoyed watching the Frisbee dogs as well as the dock jumping contest.

I have to confess though, when we were watching the Frisbee dogs, a little boy about 4-5 years sat down and started loving on Pickles. I was SO thankful I had my sunglasses on because I just started crying. It made me imagine our two sons loving on our furry babies and I just got all choked up...

The past several weeks Jason and I have also been on a 'Harry Potter' movie watching marathon. We are trying to watch them all before the new ones start in the theaters mid-November. We've never seen them before and actually have been very entertained! We'll be sad when there are no more being made... Guess we'll find another 'marathon' to begin.

19 Week Update
Well, I'm starting my 20th week of pregnancy and enjoying it so much! Our boys are growing so fast (which means I am too)! For the past couple of weeks I've been able to feel them kick through my skin sometimes, but just not very often. But, this week has been extra special as our little guys are getting so strong that they are allowing Jason to be able to feel them multiple times as well! I LOVE that he can now feel their movements with me!

I love being pregnant with twins for many reasons; one is because I can feel movement EVERYWHERE and often at the same time! Baby B is getting so high up now, I'm starting to feel him close to my ribs. I'm thinking this isn't going to be fun in the near future, but I'm enjoying it now!

I feel pretty good during the day, but by the evening I often feel pretty uncomfortable as my internal stomach is stretching so much so quickly. Laying down at night is pretty rough already. Here's a picture of me today.

Gavin and Wyatt - 16 and 18 week Pictures

Here is Baby A taken on 10/12! You can see his little profile facing up as well as his arm and hand in front of his face.


Here is Baby B. He's hiding his face from us. You can see the side of his head and body though.


This ultrasound was taken today (10/21). They were facing each other and practicing wrestling! It was so cute watching them as it seemed as though they were playing!

Oh how I love our little guys!! Thank you Lord for our blessings!

Gavin and Wyatt - Our two sons!!

Jason and I found out yesterday that we are in fact having two sons! Oh what a joy we are being blessed with. We can't wait to meet our little Gavin and Wyatt! I have so many images running through my head. I keep thinking of all the fun they are going to have together and with us. I see them learning to fish and hunt and ride a bike and throw a ball together. I see them learning to read and write. I see them getting into mischief and playing in the mud! I see Aggie games and family vacations. Most of all though, I find myself so excited about learning who God made them to be. What are their spiritual gifts, their individual personalities? What plans does God have for them and what can we do as their parents to help them follow God's path? I can't wait to see them become the men God created them to be. I'm so thankful that I am blessed to be their mother and that they have such a wonderful father as an example! Of all the things of motherhood I'm most looking forward to is teaching them about their wonderful Father, Creator and Savior. I can't wait to hold them and kiss them and share with them about God's love. I can't wait to be able to help them see life through His eyes and not ours or the worlds. I have so very many prayers for our sons, but my biggest prayer is that they walk in the path of their Lord and become men after His own heart. There is no greater joy in this life than to walk with our Father. The blessings that come from a relationship with Him are beyond any worldly desire.

Oh, I could go on and on, but the tears won't stop flowing. I am so thankful and forever will be. Thank you Lord for entrusting us with two of your precious sons!

We have a BOY! & 16 weeks update

A few weeks ago I took a blood test which told Jason and me that we are having at least one boy! It's so much fun starting to know who is growing inside of me! I was so excited to find out that I alternated from crying to running around dancing. The dogs thought I was crazy! I found out the test results during the day, so I had the house decorated with balloons and boy stuff when Jason got home from work to surprise him :)

We are happy to say that Gavin Matthew French will make his appearance in March along with his brother Wyatt or sister Jenna. We should know the sex of both babies within the next few weeks if all goes well!









Here is an update of my growth at 16 weeks. I really have grown a whole lot (the picture does not do my growth justice)! The babies go through phases of lots of movements and then other times it's a little calmer. I'll be honest and say that I enjoy the movements a whole lot more now just knowing that they are doing well. I'm no longer feeling them only in a couple of different spots, but now in many areas. The highest I used to feel Baby B was about an inch below my bellybutton and now I'm feeling lots of movement above it! I can normally tell the difference between A and B moving but sometimes it's hard when it's on the lower left side.

I love being pregnant and so thankful that everything is going as well as it is. My weight and growth seems to be right on track for twins (although my tummy is already bigger than most of my friends that are 20-24 weeks prego with one baby!). I have to eat a lot of little meals throughout the day it seems. No cravings except that I've been going through a gallon of milk a week. Normally we might go through 1/2 a gallon every other week, but now I just can't seem to get enough. What a nice 'problem' to have during pregnancy :) A little mixing with Ovaltine makes for a very yummy snack!

For a while it seemed I was very uncomfortable in the evenings; almost like my insides were going to bust. But I think they have stretched and I'm taking a couple days off from fast growing because I've been feeling a lot more comfortable. Actually, the other day I told Jason I thought my stomach was shrinking and he just kindly laughed at me. He said there is no way my tummy is getting smaller; I'm just getting used to it. And used to it I am. Thank you Lord for our blessings and allowing me to be able to help bring your children into this world :)

UPDATE
So the below picture was taken on Oct 10th. I thought I'd post it since the above picture really doesn't show my tummy growth. You can see from the below picture that I definitely look pregnant these days!