It's all starting to feel very real...

People often ask me how I am feeling and my answer is usually, "Pretty good. I really can't complain." That answer is completely true, because physically, aside from some muscle aches, I have been feeling good, and have been this entire pregnancy. But my real answer should be, "I'm feeling good, but starting to get nervous since this kiddo is almost here!"

There have been a lot of things going on lately that have reminded me that Baby's due date is only three months away, and we really should be ready for him or her to come anytime now (as my recent family history has proven that babies can come whenever!). I had to pre-register at the hospital, so they have all of my information on file for when we show up. We also took a tour of the hospital this weekend. Our timing is perfect because they just finished a complete remodel of the birthing center, so the rooms are brand-new and lovely. My other signs have been from the person who knows best - my doctor! Not that he's thinking I'm going to deliver anytime soon, but he is starting to ask if I've felt any contractions and is going to start examining me more thoroughly at my next appointment to see if anything is starting. I also have to start going every two weeks, instead of once a month.

While all of these signs are somewhat scary, we're in pretty good shape for Baby's arrival. The nursery is pretty much done. We don't have a car seat yet, but have one picked out (I have four upcoming showers so we'll see if I get the car seat/stroller combo we registered for!). We've got a working list of names that we both agree on, though nothing has been officially decided. And finally, I think we're both definitely ready for parenthood.

It's all starting to feel very real!

25 weeks

My apologies once again for the lack of posts. Between our busy lives at work and at home, blogging has kind of fallen to the back of my mind. Plus, there haven't been any major updates to Baby lately. I'm just feeling bigger and bigger each day, probably because Baby is growing bigger and bigger each day. According to the books, Baby's gaining a half-pound a week and a couple inches too! The only other update is that we have one active child in there. If the last few weeks are any indication of how the kiddo is going to be once it gets bigger, we're in trouble! But it's been fun for us to get feel all those movements!!

I did have my monthly check-up with the doctor on Monday. Everything looked good and the next appointment will be another big one - the glucose test. From what I've heard it's not very pleasant. You have to drink something sugary, wait for awhile and then get your blood tested to see if you have gestational diabetes. It affects about 10 percent of pregnant women, according to one of my books, so even though I have no history of diabetes, I could potentially get it now. It would mean changing my diet, but thankfully goes away after Baby. Fingers crossed I don't have to deal with it!

Baby's 25 week stats:
Heartrate: 152 beats per minute (I think it was a little higher than last appointment because of all the kicking it had been doing that afternoon!)
Mom's weight gain: Almost 18 pounds, which is right on track for where I am. The nurse said I should be gaining about a pound a week at this point.
Mom's vitals: My pulse and blood pressure continue to be normal, thank goodness.
Belly measurement: Somewhere around 26 inches, I think. This was the first time the Dr. did this, so it kind of took me by surprise. I'll have to pay closer attention next time.

And last but not least, what most people probably come on here to see. Here is the Baby Steiny Bump at 25 weeks:

(Side note: I need to start taking these when I'm finished getting ready in the morning. Yikes!)

Baby's first shower

I am very blessed to have wonderful co-workers who went above and beyond throwing me a baby shower this week. Why in April, when I'm due in July, you might ask? Well it is because it was a joint shower for me and another momma-to-be (who also happens to be one of my very good friends in and outside of work). It was wonderful to share the experience with her! I have worked there for almost five years now and it has been the people that I work with who have made that time enjoyable, but the generosity and kindness in gifts to our baby was still overwhelming.

It was held at our offices after work and multiple people contributed yummy food, flowers and decorations to brighten up a few of our conference rooms.

 Here is a look at some of the yummy food. Yes, you do see a plate of pickles. The organizer's fiance thought it was a necessity to include those she said. Too funny!

And the most lovely and delicious cake!

Here's a look at some of the nice gifts and pretty flowers.

And last but not least, here's one of the two moms-to-be! Rachel is due with her little girl in about a month, so our kids will be about two months apart. I can't wait for them to be friends!

Rachel and I both received many wonderful gifts. We both got things off our registry, as well as unique gifts. One of the unique gifts was a laundry basket full of bath stuff, like shampoo and lotion, as well as wipes, hangers and a cute little rattle. I also was lucky enough to get many gift cards to Babies 'R Us, Target and a cool bookstore in St. Paul.

I also got two wonderful blankets, one sewed by my co-worker and one from a store and it might be the softest blanket I've ever felt. Baby stuff is so fun! I also go the much-needed changing table pad and cover and some of the cute bath stuff we registered for, like some washcloths and hooded towels. I also received the little chair that goes in the tub (also ocean-themed).

As you can see, I wasn't lying when I said my co-workers are generous! With more showers already in the works for family and friends, Baby Steinhoff is sure going to be a spoiled kiddo!