Birth Story of Sweet Brielle Adalyn

Nearly three weeks ago I was in labor with this beautiful soul. She came rushing into this world just minutes before midnight. I can't believe that so much time has already passed and that the first month is already nearly over. I'm desperately wanting time to slow down, especially knowing that this is most likely our last. I'm trying to absorb every tiny newborn detail and fully appreciate everything as I won't likely have this opportunity again. There's a certain sadness that comes with your last baby. It's your last first everything when it comes to parenting and mothering...

When I went into labor with Aiden, I was fairly certain from the first contraction that I was in labor. With Brielle, it was a bit different. My stomach had been slightly upset for most of that Monday morning and I had some minor cramping. I had had cramping the last week or so as my body was most likely preparing for labor (I had just seen my midwife the Friday prior). After a few hours I realized that those cramps were indeed contractions and were consistently occuring. Around 10am I decided that I should probably give my husband, Ryan, a heads up that I thought labor was imminent as he was at work. I had been very nervous most of this pregnancy about how quickly that labor could progress considering that Aiden made his appearance quite quickly (he was delivered less than 2 hours after arriving at the hospital). I told him to just keep his phone nearby in case things began to progress as my contractions were still 8-9 minutes apart at this time. I decided to give my parents a call as well to let them know that we would likely be having a baby that day! My dad was our on-call babysitter for Aiden so I wanted to be sure he had plenty of time to leave work and get to our house.

The rest of the afternoon I spent puttering around the house, trying to relax and snacking on food when it sounded appetizing. Ryan made his way home and my dad also came over so we could leave quickly if need be. For most of the afternoon my contractions weren't too uncomfortable and slowly began to get closer together and more intense. I spent a lot of time just sitting on the couch with my first baby, Aiden, soaking up the last moments of him being my only 'baby' and bouncing on a yoga ball to help ease contractions and help Brielle move into position.

We made our way to the hospital around 6pm when my contractions were less than 5 minutes apart. When we got there, they checked me and found I was only 2cm dilated and 60% effaced. I won't lie, I was disappointed as that was barely any progress from my appointment the week before and began to become a bit worried if I could handle the pain and go medicine free again. They decided to have me stay a bit to see if I'd progress and Ryan and I walked circles in the hall hoping to get things moving. I was really, really hoping that this was true labor, as I wasn't ready to go home and continue to feel this way. Thankfully, my contractions slowly moved closer together and they admitted me. After walking around for what felt like a 100 times, we ventured back to the room to relax a bit. I bounced on the ball and we halfheartedly watched The Bachelor (haha) to try to distract myself.

This was such a different experience than with Aiden. With Aiden, I arrived at 4cm and within 45 minutes was at 10cm and pushing. Everyone always tells you that your second labor is quicker, so I was expecting to have progression move much more quickly. The slowness made me begin to doubt myself at times.

At about 7cm my contractions became more intense and painful. I was regaining confidence in my decision to avoid using any pain meds or an epidural, but there were moments that doubt would sneak in. I continued to trust that my body could do this on its own and I focused on each contraction and visualized that it was working to help prepare my body and her for delivery. I really believe that keeping calm and focused helps my body to relax enough to continue labor on its own. During both my labors, I get into a deep focus and really start to tune everyone and everything else around me out. It's easier for me this way and allows me to really immerse myself in the experience and tune into my body.

I should mention that I had originally planned on having a midwife be there for my delivery. I saw a midwife for all my appointments and had extensively talked to her about my wishes and desires. That morning when I called the office (she worked under several OB's), I was informed that she had to have emergency surgery and the other on call midwife wasn't able to assist either. I was bummed and nervous because now I had NO idea of who would be taking care of me and baby. I knew that the hospital I was choosing to deliver at were open to midwifery and their practices, so that gave me some comfort. That evening at the hospital, they had very few doctors on hand and I didn't know until an hour or so before labor who would be delivering. Thankfully, we had a great doctor who didn't try to rush anything and let labor take it's own course. I never once felt rushed or that my wishes weren't respected (I did have a general birth plan that my midwife has signed). I really can't say anything but great things about the doctors and nurses that took care of us.

At 11:10 they checked me again and I was nearing 8 1/2 cm dilated and they decided to break my water (I've never had my water break on its own). I felt the warm gush and my contractions became even more powerful and intense. I'd have one extremely tough contraction and the next would be weaker. It allowed me to gather some strength and focus between those intense contractions, but my goodness, some of those contractions were incredibly tough to get through. I remember trying to vocalize and ride them out. Some of the nurses were laughing a bit because I'd almost sing through them because for some reason it made me more comfortable. I really try to avoid screaming, cursing and so on because for me it doesn't seem to help and instead makes me feel frustrated and frightened. It's always amazing to me to see the different ways that people deal with the pain and labor experience. I always feel a bit bad because I really tune people out. My wonderful husband is so helpful and encouraging throughout it all, and I feel like I barely respond.

I vividly remember feeling her move and turn into the birthing canal. It was an unreal feeling and I knew at the moment that it would be very soon that we would meet our little Brielle (unnamed at that time) would be there soon. Several incredibly intense contractions passed and the intense pressure and feeling of crowning and she was nearly here. After 14 minutes of pushing and one last powerful push that took the last of my energy, and she arrived! 11:56 PM on January 25, 2016. She weighed in at 7 pounds, 10 ounces and 21 inches of adorableness.

They quickly placed her on my chest so we could meet and I was in awe. She came into this world quietly and was wrinkly and purple. The distress from labor caused her to have some issues with respiration so unfortunately our immediate bonding time was very short lived. After Ryan cut the umbilical cord, they quickly moved her to the newborn station (which was in the room with us) to suction more, do the APGAR and monitor her to make sure that she was improving. She slowly improved and after about 20 minutes I was able to hold her again and marvel at all her tiny, delicate features. It was definitely a bit nerve-wracking waiting those 20 minutes, but I was assured that she was okay and that they just wanted to make sure that she improved and to monitor her closely. It wasn't ideal, but at that moment I only cared that she was going to be okay. Due to her increased respiration we weren't able to breastfeed until about an hour after birth. This initially concerned me, but she latched like a pro and we haven't had any issues since. Daddy finally was able to hold her as well and meet his little girl.

The relief that comes after labor is immense. I felt my body relax immediately and that surge of adrenaline. I swear that getting through labor makes you feel like you can take over the world. There's such an intense and raw high that you get from it.

The last few weeks have been a sweet bliss. I can't stop staring at that sweet face and smelling her newness and newborn smell. Seeing the love that her brother has for her, makes my heart explode a hundred times over.

Welcome to the world precious Brielle Adalyn. We can't wait to see the journey you take in this big, bright world!

Week in the life...with my Sarah Wells "Maddy" Breast Pump Bag!

I recently started using this bag and I LOVE IT! It seriously has made life so much easier with trying to balance my return to work and continuation of breastfeeding while I'm away from Aiden. I've used this stylish bag not only for carrying my breast pump to and from work, but also girl's days, gym sessions, and while working from home. This stylish, discreet and functional bag is incredibly useful to be used as a diaper bag and there have been several occasions where I've switched to using it instead of my normal diaper bag. The Sarah Wells breast pump bag provides ample space for your pump and accessories, plus the side pockets are so convenient for putting pumped bottles of milk with a ice pack (instead of feeling awkward using the employee fridge to store them).  If used as a diaper bag there is plenty of space for diapers, blanket, cover, toys and change of clothes. There is even a zip pocket to put the smaller items that you want easily accessible (like your wallet, keys, pacifier, etc.).

Monday & Tuesday:

It was my first few days back to work after maternity leave and I was definitely having some reservations about leaving Aiden at home. It was nice to have the bag to be able to pack everything up in so I wasn't running around last minute trying to find a bag that could safely hold everything and then be able to store everything I pumped at work.

But first, let me take a selfie!

It was comforting to have a private, accommodating spot to pump at work. I'm so thankful to work at a company that is fully, supportive of breastfeeding and make it easy for their employees to pump while at work. The Sarah Wells Breast Pump Bag had plenty of room to hold my pump, all it's parts, 6 bottles, hands-free bra, baby onesie (for scent to help letdown), magazines, deodorant, makeup, and even a padded pocket to hold my iPad to prevent damage...and there was still plenty of room.

Pumping station at work for all the pumping mamas!

Wednesday:

The morning was spent doing some quick work to help out my husband with his home business before running some errands and going to the gym. I knew that I was going to have to pump before starting my workout so this was perfect for taking my pump discreetly around town (used as purse too) and into the gym. The bag is convenient because it fits my pump and it's accessories in the side pockets when on the go so I can use the large middle compartment for extra clothes. My favorite thing is that I don't have to remove my pump to use it either (which is great when in a locker room to avoid germs). I can just pull out the flanges, attach and pump while keeping the pump inside the bag.

Little desk work to start the day!

Great looking, right?

Isn't it fabulous? The perfect size for breast pump and other essentials.

Thursday:

 Another day of work. :(  It's starting to get easier to be back at work, but I dread the days I have to go in. Working second shift makes it tough because I miss bedtime and the evening bath too. I'm sure that it'll get easier over time though and I'm determined to continue breastfeeding. 

This bag is really convenient for saving time. It's large enough that I can easily put my breast pump and all of it's parts in it already assembled so that when I need to use it at work I can pull it out and starting pumping ASAP, instead of spending time putting everything together. I love that it doesn't scream, "HEY, I have a breast pump in here!!", since I have to walk through the whole hospital going into work and to the pumping rooms. Haha! I had quite a few co-workers compliment me on it and they couldn't believe that it was a breast pump bag because they were used to the frumpy, obvious pump bags that they've seen and used before. 

Friday - Spent the morning catching up on some work and then GIRL'S Day! Spent the day out with friends shopping, dining and catching up! It felt so good to have a day to just relax with the girls since it hasn't happened in forever! Used the bag as purse and pump bag through the day so I wouldn't have to use two separate bags. Less bags = less to lug around and less to lose (sleep deprived mom equals scatter brained). 

Saturday - Spent the day visiting with parents so we were on the go a lot. On days when I have Aiden with me throughout the day I nurse him, so on the weekends I use the bag as a diaper bag. It has plenty of room for all your diaper bag needs with the separate compartments. If we're bringing bottles I just put them in the side pocket with a ice pack to keep them cool for 4+ hours and the water resistant exterior and interior lining is a life-saver when you have leaky bottles - which we did. :( Nothing hurts more than wasted breast milk, but at least clean up was easy with a simple wipe with a towel. The large interior is perfect for extra change of clothes, diapers, wipes and some toys to keep Aiden smiling. The zip pocket is perfect for throwing in my wallet, a pacifier and sanitizer for quick and easy access. 

Packed and ready for a day with family. 

Obligatory baby Aiden pic! ;) 

If you're a working mom or currently pregnant and planning on being a working & pumping mom, I highly recommend this bag! It's high function, discreet and fashionable as well. An added bonus is the versatility because not only is it useful for a breast pump bag, but also as a diaper bag, purse, and overnight bag in the future so it will serve to be useful for a long period of time, not just while breastfeeding and pumping.

For more information check out Sarah Wells Bag website or buy directly on Amazon.

P.S. Don't forget....Mother's Day is right around the corner! ;)

Bumpdate: 36 weeks!

Guess What?! I hit 36 weeks today! Officially hit the 9 month mark and holy crap, that means Baby Boy is going to be here SOON! It blows my mind that if labor starts next week that they won't try to stop it. Eeek!!

Bumpdate Stats:

Weight Gain: About 28 pounds at 9 months. I was hoping to not gain anymore than 30 so we're getting close to that mark. I've honestly ate pretty well throughout the whole pregnancy and stay active at work. I was hoping to get some more workout's in, but by the time that I'm done with work, I'm pretty spent for the day and crash once I get home. I really can't wait to be active again and to have some energy after pregnancy. :)

Baby Size: Head of Romaine Lettuce (18 1/2 inches long and almost 6 pounds). At this point baby gains about an ounce a day.

What I've Been Eating: Little meals at a time because there's no room for much more. Still eating lots of peanut butter, fruits and veggies. Been digging nuts lately too. And of course lots of Turkey this week. :)

How I've Been Feeling: Tired and getting a bit more achy. Work kicks my butt when I stand all day (back aches). Still no swelling though so that's awesome! I feel like he's moved down lower so that's becoming uncomfortable to the point that it makes me wince at times. To be honest, for being 9 months pregnant I thought that I'd feel a lot worse so I'm pretty thankful.

Am I Showing Yet:  Duh.

I can't really tell if I've dropped...can you?

Any Other Symptoms: Occasional Braxton Hicks contractions and some insomnia. I think a lot of it has to deal with my work schedule kind of being all over the place (some days I work 1st shift and then others I'm working 2nd shift)

Best Moment of the Week: We had a great Thanksgiving with family. We had my parents over and Ryan's as well. It was great to not have to travel on the holidays like we have done for the last 10 years. Lots of great foods, company and celebrating. My sister got to feel the baby move too, so it was a pretty good feeling too. We also did lots of relaxing on our days off and Christmas decorating.

My sis and I

Ryan and my mom helping out in the kitchen and carving the bird.

The dads hanging out by the fireplace

The turkey apron my grandma made has been passed down to me. :) 

Anything Else: I have a work baby shower on Friday so that's really exciting. I feel so lucky and thankful to have my co-workers do this for me. I'm sure he'll be spoiled. :)  Also started my week OB visits this week. His heartbeat was strong and steady at 150. And we FINALLY told family what his name is going to be.

At this time next week there could be a baby?!?!?! WHOA! 

Any last minute labor and delivery tips that I need to know/remember?

Bumpdate: 32 weeks

Oh my gosh, I'm the worst at this. It's not that I don't think about it, it's just that I feel like I'm busy all the time and have NO energy, or need to conserve it to get other things done around here, especially before baby boy makes his appearance.

Bumpdate stats:

Weight Gain: I'm up about 25 pounds at a little over 8 months pregnant. It's literally all in my belly and boobs. I can still fit into a few pair of my non-maternity jeans if they are low rise. I know for some that is nearing the high end of the weight spectrum, but considering how small I was to begin with and the fact that I'm still active I'm not overly concerned, nor is my doctor.

Baby Size:  Squash (Average size: 15.2-16.7 inches, 2.5-3.8 lbs).  We've got an overachiever according to the last ultrasound though, but I'll get more into that later. ;)

What I've Been Eating:  I can finally eat chicken again as long as it's mixed in with other things. After almost 7 months of avoiding the one food I used to eat all the time it's great. Other than that I've been loving on salads with ranch dressing. And still loving on the sweets...I blame this all on Ryan and his sweet tooth which obviously is getting passed onto this kiddo. Greek yogurt with fresh fruit is another love. I can't get enough of it.

How I've Been Feeling: I still feel pretty good. The worst part is just the fatigue. At the end of every work day I HAVE to come home and take a nap to re-charge. Start to really feel it in my feet at the end of the day. I can't complain though considering it's taken this long to start to become uncomfortable. I'm thankful for that. He is moving around a lot still, but it's more shifting now than strong punches and kicks. It's insane to watch my stomach move around and lately he's been using my ribs as monkey bars with his feet and my cervix as a trampoline. No swelling yet and still have my wedding bands on. :)

Am I Showing Yet?: HA, yes, you could say that. The belly has fully popped! Although my fundal height is measuring behind and I get comments that I look about 5-6 months pregnant, not 8 months. My breast have also grown again...It's becoming darn nearly impossible to find a bra that fits. Thank goodness for sleep and sports bras.

Any Other Symptoms: A few Braxton Hicks contractions now and then. Also noticed a bit of milk leaking...oh joy! At least I know everything is working.

Best Moment of the Week:  We had an ultrasound this past week and it was the first one since our 20 week growth ultrasound. It was re-assuring because at my last OB appointment I was measuring behind on fundal measurement by a few weeks, but the ultrasound showed that he's actually about a week ahead in growth (weighing in at 4 pounds, 3 ounces already)! I'm wondering if our due date is going to change. The OB thought that I may measure behind because I have strong abdominal muscles so I may not 'show' as readily as some. Everything looks great for our baby boy and it's all becoming so much more real.

What Else Is Left To Do: We still need to finish the last of the nursery, but it's almost done (post pics when finished). I'll be sure to post pics soon. Need to finalize our birth plan too. I need to send out thank you cards from my family/friends baby shower, but keep forgetting to pick up stamps (which I hope to blog about soon)!

Thank you cards! SO thankful for my awesome family and friends
and how loved and spoiled this boy is already.

I came downstairs to see Mav breaking in the babies playmat.
I had to take it awaybefore he thinks that it's his.

 It's crazy to think that in a month it's pretty much go time and that he could make an appearance! Time seriously flew, I feel like we just shared the news.

Bumpdate: Week 16

Holy smokes!? I'm 4 months along already tomorrow. Time is flyyyyying by! I can't believe that it's already halfway through July. It makes me a bit sad that summer is over halfway over already. Before we know it, there's gonna be snow on the ground and I'll be complaining and wishing for these hot days to be back.

My prego stats:

Weight gain: 6.4 pounds in the past 4 months. This is the time where the weight gain will start adding on a lot more aggressive as baby goes through growth spurts and my body preps for baby more. My bump definitely "popped" this week so now I look more pregnant than just bloated.

Baby size: Avocado (Average size: 3.53 oz and 4.57 in)

What I've been eating: Ridiculous amounts of water! I'm so thirsty all the time so I've been downing a ton each day. Digging watermelon lately, along with tomato & cucumber salad with italian dressing, and Better Made BBQ potato chips (seriously, the bbq chips ever). I could eat all of those every.single.day. Chicken is still not my favorite, but I can eat small amounts of it at a time.

How I've been feeling: Pretty good! Still tired after an early morning and long day at work so I'm still loving my daily naps. Sleeping at night is a little rough since sleeping on my stomach is becoming uncomfortable and this heat has been unbearable (heat index of 105 today). I'm getting more energy back though and finally went for a walk/jog the other day and it felt awesome to get out and moving again. Once this weather passes I'll be a lot more active again.

Am I Showing Yet?: Yep! Woke up the other morning with a baby bump! It's still small, but enough for people at work to notice. Definitely going to need to get some new pants sometime soon. Goodbye skinny jeans (for now...). Also, I'm pretty sure I'm feeling flutters of movement. I can only notice when laying and it's quiet and I'm specifically looking for them.

Don't mind my scrub-tastic self. It was my day off = lazy

Best Moment of the Week: Seeing close friends from college! It was so great to spend some time with those that I share so many awesome, fun and memorable moments from college with. I really hope that we can make it happen more often. :) Feeling the flutters is pretty cool too. We had another OB visit and the heart rate was at 160. The wives tales say girl, but I've heard that often it's not right. We'll know Aug 13th!
Baby B Heart Beat

Perfect Michigan sky after sunset

Some of my favorites

Hubs & I

Our gorgeous getaway "home".

Baby Prep/Goodies: We bought a crib! Target was having a big baby sale so we took advantage to save some money. Also bought a Pack N Play that came with a free bouncer. :)

Can't wait for the weekend to get here. Some outlet shopping, relaxing with Ryan, and cooler temps!

Bumpdate: Week 13

We've officially made it to the second trimester (well according to most sources, although some say 14 weeks)! Woohoo! The risk of miscarriage has dropped significantly at this point so that's at least a little peace of mind.  All the support and well wishes that we have received the past week since announcing the pregnancy have been so overwhelming and appreciated. Baby B is already feeling all the love and support from family and friends.

My Prego Stats:

Weight Gain: Grand total so far: 3 lbs! Although I have to say that it feels/looks like more. I think it's bloat and my uterus shifting around in there because it's definitely moved up.

Baby Size: Peach (Average size: 2.9 inches, .81 oz.)

What I've Been Eating:  Food is finally tasting good again. For the last couple of weeks nothing had been appealing and I've been eating only for the sake of eating for the most part. This week my appetite has come back with a vengeance. It's so bad that I woke up at 3AM starving last night and had to have a midnight snack. I've finally ate chicken again for the first time in 2 months, but still not really digging it. I've been eating a ton of peaches, nectarines, peanut butter, bacon, pasta and beef.  And my sweet tooth, is rocking out in full force. This baby is already taking after it's daddy with a wicked sweet tooth.

A smorgasbord of everything! 

Balsamic pork, amish macaroni salad, mini salad

Bacon, spinach, tomato, & avocado sandwich --thee best! 

How I've Been Feeling:  I'm beginning to have energy again.  I still feel the need for a daily nap and have been pretty lazy, but I've been able to at least be a bit more productive this week. My nausea is nearly gone, unless I wait too long to eat. A little bit of dizziness too, which is likely from my super low blood pressure that's gotten worse since becoming pregnant.

Am I Showing Yet: I think I'm starting to show a bit, but most people would think I just ate a few too many donuts. It's that weird stage right now where I look like I just stopped caring about eating/working out instead of prego. I look forward to the days when it's more apparent.

Best Moment of the Week: 3 days off in a row!! Work wears me out hardcore lately so I love having these days off. So nice to lounge and take it easy. Another awesome thing? I called my insurance today to find out more information today about our pre and post-natal care, and everything will be covered 100%! We have no out of pocket expenses so that is a huge relief! :)

Here's a few ultrasound pics from week 11:

Kind of weird, but you can see the orbits where the eyes are, along with jawline and ears.

All nestled in.

I have lots of fun house updates coming up soon. Hope to get to that tomorrow! :)

Super Exciting Announcement!

Hi friends! I know that it's been forever since I've posted anything, BUT I have a really good excuse this time:

Yup, we're expecting and SUPER excited about it. Baby B is expected around New Years 2014 (due date: Jan 2, 2014)!

The past couple of months I've been pretty sleepy so any spare time was basically spent napping on the couch and sipping on some Vernors. I'm so thankful to say that I'm finally starting to feel better, able to eat something other than noodles and beginning to get active again. Yahoo!

It's still kind of surreal to us. I think seeing the ultrasound sealed the deal seeing the baby squirming all around in there (Ryan likes to say that it's break dancing). And the fact that my pants are getting a bit tight and there's a tiny, little baby belly starting already. Whoa!

I can't believe we've made a human. That's exciting, terrifying, and awesome all at the same time. I'm sure it's going to be a very interesting journey that we'll be sharing with you all.