Monthly Archives: March 2023

33 weeks more crazy stuff this week too.

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Just when I thought everything that could go wrong in two weeks had happened nope there was more to come! Our microwave broke silly I know but just something else crazy to happen. So we ordered a new one obviously. Then we FINALLY got news about our car. Kia agreed to fully cover our engine replacement! You guys this was seriously the best news I almost cried. I’m really hoping this car lasts a long time now and I won’t have an extra car payment for awhile so we can save more money. You know for vacations or purses or something. 😆 I was really impressed with Kia and the customer service really. I really thought we were going to have to fight with them over this so it’s nice that they did the right thing. They are even covering our rental car and the towing bill.

So then the next bad thing to happen was Sunday. It was a regular day a great day at church came home to relax etc. all normal stuff. Then at dinner I started noticing a few contractions. Braxton hicks are common. They seemed to keep coming though and I got a little worried. So I immediately knew what to do chug lots of water and lay on my left side and wait for them to go away. Unfortunately they just were not going away. After I started timing them my app said I should probably go to the hospital. I called Karen and Roger to let them know what was going on. I was just trying to make sure I got there in enough time that if I was in labor they could try to stop it. It was still to early for her to come.

Once they got me hooked up they gave me a bag of fluids to try to get them to stop. Even though they said I was actually very well hydrated! (We all know what an accomplishment that is for me) Well the fluids didn’t do anything. So they called an on call dr and he recommended some pill to try. So I took that. It still wasn’t stopped so I got another of the same pill but an extended release one. By then they had actually slowed back down so that was good news. They checked me just to make sure I wasn’t dilating They also decided to give me steroid shots to help mature baby girls lungs just in case. So I had to get one that night in my butt and go back on Monday at 8pm for a second one.

Ricky and I didn’t get back home until about 3am. Thankfully my dad came straight over and stayed on the couch so just in case the kids needed anything. We were all tired that’s for sure. I had to take Monday off and see My Ob. So thankfully she had one appointment available. I hadn’t seen her since all the the crazy things and new diagnosis’s of GD etc. literally as I am driving to the appointment I get a call that she had to go to the hospital for an emergency. Of course she did. I should have expected something else to go wrong. They put in on a new guys schedule. I am super hormonal at this point and just wasn’t happy about some random new guy anyway. I feel bad because I know I didn’t give him a fair chance but this guy knows nothing about me or my ob history. Dr Sammons does and I just couldn’t trust him after a 5 min conversation. He told me to go ahead and take the rest of the week off work and let’s see what next week brings.

I decided to text my Dr (I’m very thankful she trusts me with her number) I just explained I would really feel better if I could at least speak to her over the phone about my situation. She called me today and thankfully went over everything with me. She said she is ok with me going back to work next week. There are obviously conditions though. She said if I start having more contractions then I will be pulled and not able to work. I totally understand and don’t want to risk her health in any way. Hopefully it was just a fluke though and we can move forward no issues. Dr Sammons said we will induce at 39 weeks if I make it that far. She doesn’t have high hopes of that happening. She thinks I’ll go on my own before then. That’s honestly what I hope for because it makes birth easier. She just needs to wait closer to 38 weeks. I feel like that’s a good time frame.

Yesterday at my ultrasound and non stress test everything went well. She was even head down. Though I feel her moving so much I don’t think she’s staying down there yet. I think she’s going to be long at least because she really likes to get up under my ribs! My extra fluid is still high but it was lower then last week so I feel like that’s a good sign. Next week they will do another growth scan to measure her again and we can check weight and see how much bigger she’s gotten. Today we are doing a 3/4 D ultrasound and Karen and Roger are in town to see her. I love that they are able to come to so many appointments. At today’s appointment we got some cute face pictures and her squishy cheeks are just the best. I can’t wait to see them in real life too. They also said it looks like her hair is really growing. I think that’s a fun perk also. After our appointment we went to St Charles Main Street since the weather was so great! We just enjoyed walking around and nice weather. It was perfect. I am really hoping that now all the crazy things that have happened are now over with and we can just enjoy now. I am really really enjoying these play sessions. We are not getting a lot of sleep but it’s totally fine because she’s so fun to play with. With only 7ish weeks to go I am just going to enjoy all of this. I am going to forever miss all of these beautiful things I have been able to experience. Closing this chapter of my life is definitely going to be hard. Pray for me.

I got some great videos of her kicking and playing I’ll share them as well as what she’s up to this week.

How’s Baby Mac?

Baby Mac is growing up so fast! Your baby is 17-19 inches tall, the size of a cauliflower blossom, weighs between 4 and 6 lbs. At this point in pregnancy though, there is a large variation in size from one baby to the next, and it’s harder to give an estimate for how big Baby Mac is getting. Baby Mac is going to keep putting on about a half pound (230 g) a week, and as long as your healthcare provider says they’re on track, it’s safe to assume that your little one’s growth is just perfect for them.

Your baby is also beginning to keep their eyes open while they’re awake, and before too long you’ll get to see those eyes look right into your own! Baby Mac’s bones are still forming, and though relatively soft, they keep hardening. And your little one’s brain is developing more and more every day. 

Is Baby Mac still causing a ruckus in there? While their kicks should have become more regular now, counting kicks is as important as ever as it can go a long way in helping you monitor your baby’s health. So it’s a good idea to pick a moment each day to count the kicks. 

What’s new with you?

Your growing body may increasingly be making some of your normal activities harder and more uncomfortable. So take care as you move through your days — take your time getting in and out of bed, cars, or up from seats; be careful moving in crowded spaces as you might accidentally bump your belly into furniture, and just be patient and forgiving as do your usual activities with an amazing body that’s still changing every day. 

Many folks also experience insomnia during their third trimester, which you can blame on a restless mind, restless hormones, and trouble finding a comfortable position to sleep in. Getting enough rest is very important though, so try to get as comfy and cozy as possible so that you can sleep as much as you can. And if you haven’t started using a sleep pillow yet, this may help you get more comfortable and feel more supported so that you can get in those zzzs. If you’re being kept up at night by prolonged or severe feelings of sadness or extreme worry and you think you might be experiencing anxiety or depression, seek out professional support. You have lots of options. 

She’s so fun! 😍
Non stress test
Little miss sweet cheeks! 💓💓💓

32 weeks and growing!

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Well we have made it to 32 weeks now. I would be lying if

I said the last couple weeks have been easy. We have just had so much going on in our personal lives as well as the pregnancy. I am doing my best to stay as stress free as possible. It’s just crazy to me that everything can just seem to happen at once. Our grandma has been Ill and we are trying to get her moved to a nice place where she can be safe and closer to us. Plus I had literally 5 drs appointments last week plus work! Then on top of that Ricky texted me that our car just stopped working on the highway!!! Thankfully he was able to not crash and get it to the shoulder. We had it towed to the house and we’re hoping it was an easy fix. Nope of course it wouldn’t be… Apparently the whole motor just locked up and quit working! We almost had it paid off and I was really really excited to not have any car payments for a bit.

Maybe some good news though Kia is trying to get the motor covered under warranty because our year had recalls for bad motor issues. It’s extra stress though just waiting to hear if they will cover it or not! Plus only having one car is not ideal. So everyone pray and cross your fingers and toes that it can be covered. That would be such a relief at this point. Other good news is my Bistro MD meals came. They are a meal delivery service and you can get meals for diabetics! Honestly they are actually really good. It’s super simple and convenient and that’s what I like about it! I don’t have to worry or stress about if it’s good or not. So far all of my blood sugar tests have been great too! That’s such a relief for me.

The drs seem to think I will be just fine controlling everything with diet. Since I only had a few high numbers anyway. Baby girl is moving great and I am really trying my best to stop focusing on all the crazy and negative things going on in my life and enjoy these last few weeks of my last pregnancy. 😭

I really want to soak up every little kick and wiggle all the hiccups and rolls. She’s been a great little last belly buddy and I want to treasure this last little bit of time we have together. I know her whole family can’t wait to have her and she’s going to be so spoiled and loved. I just need to focus on enjoying these last few weeks and that’s it. 7 weeks or less now! It’s just going so fast. These are for sure my favorite weeks. Preparing for all the early labor signs and symptoms. Over analyzing each contraction thinking are these the ones? Hoping and praying my water breaks this time. Hoping she gets in that head down position! Wondering how long labor will take. Then that incredible high you get after birth and seeing so much Joy and happiness on someone else’s face. Knowing you had a part in that. Nothing can compare to that happiness and joy that fills a hospital room after birth. My heart always feels like it could just burst!

So these last few weeks my focus will be on this sweet baby girl and keeping her as healthy and happy as I can. Enjoying each and every movement and even pain knowing this is it. It’s all worth it! Now let’s see what baby Girl is up too this week.

How’s Baby Mac?

As Baby Mac keeps getting closer and closer to being born, they now measure in at 17-18 inches, are the size of a pomelo, and weigh about 4.3 pounds. Your little one’s head also has a coating of fuzz, and their skin is continuing to fill out. Baby Mac is still a little ways away from their first mani-pedi, but they already do have a full set of fingernails and toenails! In fact, one of your baby’s favorite activities right now is sucking their fingers, which is not only cute, but actually improves their coordination and familiarizes them with their body. 

And Baby Mac is really practicing for the big stage, breathing and “swimming” like crazy. Your baby is also probably already in the head down position with their head moving closer to your pelvis as they prepare for delivery.

What’s new with you?

This late in your pregnancy, you know your own unique symptoms pretty well. Symptoms are different for every pregnant person, but one of the most common symptoms of the third trimester is the increased need to pee. Hemorrhoids, flatulence, and constipation might continue as well. And you’ve probably reached a peak in the increased blood flow that’s, by now, been contributing to any number of symptoms. That extra 50% of blood does have a purpose though — currently it’s helping to keep Baby Mac snug and safe, and it’s also going to help make up for the blood you lose in delivery. 

It’s also time to start thinking more about your hopes and plans for labor and delivery, including thinking about if you may want to use any pain management. Talk to your provider about your options and what makes most sense for you. Epidural anesthesia is among the most common pain management options, though many opt for other medications, or elect to have medication-free births. It is also possible to labor without  analgesics (pain meds) but need other medications like pitocin and/or antibiotics. Ask your provider about the pain management options available to you and any other questions you have about labor and delivery. It does help to go into labor with an understanding of your options, but keep in mind that you can always ask more questions even when in labor if you change your mind then. Everyone’s desires and needs are different, and your provider and care team will help you do what’s best for you. 

It’s also important to prepare for life after delivery — you want to be as prepared as you can be for Baby Mac’s arrival, since you’ll be busy with your little one before you know it. If you’ve finished with some of your baby prep basics — Crib? Check! Diapers? Check! — and want another project to keep you busy as you count down the days to your little one’s arrival, it’s never too early to start with some baby-proofing. Putting up baby gates, getting some cabinet locks and door knob covers, and mounting furniture (like dressers, changing tables, or bookcases that can tip over) to the wall so it’s not a fall hazard are all items that can be added to your baby-proofing to-do list, whether now or later. Certainly, Baby Mac is several months away from trying to climb dressers or explore under the kitchen sink, but if you have some extra time to do some of this prep now, you’ll be glad to have dealt with any potential safety hazards long before your little one is particularly mobile.

My stretch marks are really coming out now!
My amazing friend and client got me a survival bag! 😂 Ps the jolly ranchers are delicious

31 weeks and diabetes update.

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Well I have been tracking my numbers all week like they said and I sent them in this morning. I didn’t hear anything back so I waited for my appointment today when I got there. They hooked me up for my non stress test and I waited. They finally came in to tell me what I was dreading hearing. They said I have gestational diabetes. I honestly was a little surprised because I only had 2 elevated numbers. All my other numbers were well with in range. She basically said any spikes indicated I had it. I’m sad and angry if I am being honest. It’s a lot to take in. She was very kind explaining that I should have no problem controlling it with my diet so I wouldn’t need insulin or anything. I just didn’t want to worry about this. So now next week I have to have a two hour zoom meeting with a nutrition specialist on Tuesday and Wednesday at 8am I have another ultrasound and non stress test and then Thursday I am meeting with the doctor again to go over the diabetes stuff again right after that we have a 4d ultrasound in wentzville. I’m wondering how to not be stressed for these non stress tests with so many appointments in one week! 😂 I know everything is going to be fine and I know I will do whatever I need to so that I can keep her safe until she is ready to go home with her mom and dad but it just sucks and that’s how I feel right now. It’s a lot to try to understand with good carbs and bad carbs. All the blood checks and monitoring of numbers.

I want to try to look at the positives and maybe this will help me be extra healthy and I can get really skinny and hott after this last pregnancy! 😆 (wishful thinking) But this will be good things to learn and use in life. She’s doing great in there and wiggling and just being adorable. She already has the cutest pouty face you have ever seen. She’s basically going to get whatever she wants. She’s been getting the hiccups a lot and the ultrasound tech said that’s actually a great thing because she’s working her diaphragm muscles.

Karen and Roger took the news better then me. I can’t help but to feel like they could have picked a younger better surrogate then me but they said they are still happy with their choice. I know it’s really nothing I did and it’s the placenta that causes GD. The Dr made sure to tell me that. Tonight I’m going to my best friend’s wedding and it’s going to be a great night and I’m excited to celebrate her and her new husband! I’ll post all the normal stuff now and I’ll update again next week. Thanks for all the prayers and keep them coming!


Baby Mac is also working on some final preparations prior to delivery, as their senses are now intact, they continue to add on that baby fat, and their immune system is nearly ready to fight and prevent illness all on its own — Baby Mac will just needs some time outside of the womb for it to fully develop.

Your little one’s brain and nerves also continue to develop under what is still a very soft head, which is still quite soft because the bones that make up their skull are not yet fused together. This is so that your baby can pass as easily as possible through the birth canal. These soft spots, or fontanels, won’t close until Baby Mac is about two years old.

Just look at this perfect face! Her hand is on her head because she’s also upset about us having diabetes. 😂

30 weeks with not great news.

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So last Thursday and Friday I had my appointments. One with regular OB and one with the specialist in the hospital since I am old and we have a two vessel cord again. My OB appointment went great on Thursday then on Friday I went for the specialist and they did the scans and then said they wanted the Dr to talk with me. That’s never a good sign. So I texted Karen and told her this should be something she was on the call for too. It sounded important. They said I had extra fluid and baby was measuring bigger then she should be. 4.2 pounds. The Dr told us it could be that I actually do have gestational diabetes and the tests just didn’t pick it up. Or it could be a fluke but they need to know for sure. So I am now doing at home blood sugar levels multiple times a day to check and see where I am at. So far they have all looked pretty good. I did have one high reading after I ate a super big carb heavy meal and the next morning was at the top of the range but within range… The dr said to just eat this week like I normally would and on Friday I will send over all my numbers and they can let me know what they think. I also have to do weekly ultrasounds and non stress tests now until baby is here. That is because of the high fluid levels. They call it polyhydramnios. I really didn’t know you could have too much fluid. I assumed more is better then not enough. Obviously I was wrong. Emotionally I’m doing ok with all this I guess. It’s hard to not worry and feel like I am not providing the best home for her. I did talk to another surrogate who also had this issue and she said she felt fine until the end and that’s when she could really feel the extra fluid. She said she was pretty uncomfortable and did end up on a little bit of bed rest at the end. I am hoping I don’t need any bed rest but whatever this little girl needs we will do. I am hopeful that even if I do get diagnosed with gestational diabetes that I will be able to control it with my diet. All I want is a happy and healthy baby. I knew the risks go up each and every pregnancy for things like this to happen plus with my age. It’s obviously not what I wanted or expected but we will deal with whatever comes our way.


Polyhydramnios (too much amniotic fluid)

Polyhydramnios is where there is too much amniotic fluid around the baby during pregnancy. Amniotic fluid is the fluid that surrounds your baby in the womb.

Too much amniotic fluid is normally spotted during a check-up in the later stages of pregnancy.

It is not usually a sign of anything serious, but you’ll probably have some extra check-ups. You’ll usually be advised to give birth in hospital.

Will I have a healthy pregnancy and baby?

Most women with polyhydramnios will not have any significant problems during their pregnancy and will have a healthy baby.

But there is a slightly increased risk of pregnancy and birth complications, such as:

  • giving birth prematurely (before 37 weeks)
  • your waters breaking early
  • a problem with the position of the umbilical cord (prolapsed umbilical cord)
  • heavy bleeding after your baby is born because your womb has stretched
  • your baby having a health condition

You’ll need extra check-ups to look for these problems. You’ll usually be advised to give birth in hospital.

Symptoms of polyhydramnios

Polyhydramnios tends to develop gradually and there may not be noticeable symptoms.

Some women have symptoms like:

These can be common problems for pregnant women and are not necessarily caused by polyhydramnios. Talk to your midwife if you have these symptoms and you’re worried.

In rare cases, fluid can build up around the baby quickly. Contact your midwife or doctor if your tummy gets bigger suddenly.

Let’s see the fun stuff now on what baby Mac is up to these days. All 4.2 pounds of her! ❤️

How’s Baby Mac?

Baby Mac is growing like crazy, now 16-17 inches, the size of a cantaloupe, and probably weighing somewhere near three and a half pounds. At this point, most babies will start to move from the breech position (head up) to the birth position (head down) where their heads are delivered first. If your healthcare provider says Baby Mac doesn’t appear to be moving from the breech position, you can ask them about exercises to encourage Baby Mac into a head down birth position. In all likelihood, though, your little one is already rotating towards that birth position as you both move closer to that special day! 

How else is your little one developing this week? Baby Mac’s lanugo, the furry coat that’s been keeping them warm in the womb, will begin to fall off this week as they put on enough fat to keep them warm without it. Your little one is going to start putting on up to a half pound each week until they’re born — they’ll be far less little in just a few weeks! 

Your baby’s eyes are also still developing. And while they can open their eyes, right now their vision is extremely poor. It will continue to improve while Baby Mac is in the womb, and soon this development will speed up. They might reach the point of being able to track objects moving horizontally and vertically in just a few short weeks, and by week 34, they’ll probably have vision that’s just as strong as it will be at birth.

What’s new with you?

Around now, you might notice a return of the mood swings you may have thought you left behind in the first trimester. You also might have paradoxical symptoms, like increased tiredness right alongside difficulty sleeping. These issues are common, and the important thing is that you’re three-quarters of the way done with all of these frustrations, and three-quarters of the way to meeting Baby Mac.

And as you approach delivery day, it’s increasingly important to start planning for some of the important, practical things in Baby Mac’s life, like their nursery or sleep space. The transition from the womb to the world is a pretty drastic one, and you want Baby Mac to be in a comfortable and nurturing environment so that they can be as happy and healthy as possible. So it’s also a good time to start thinking about things like where you’re going to get baby supplies, like diapers (you’ll need diapers!), and set up a crib or bassinet if you haven’t already. 

If you have a partner, it’s great to include them in all of this prep. It can make for a nice bonding experience for you both and help them prepare for the big change happening in both of your lives — and get used to the idea that they’re going to be changing a LOT of those diapers! This is also a great time for them to spend some quality time with your growing bump, which can be a sweet way for them to nurture their bond with Baby Mac even before your little one is born. Let them talk to Baby Mac, touch your bump, and try to feel some of your growing baby’s movements so they can appreciate just how huge, and how wonderful, this change in your lives is going to be.