39 Weeks

How far along? 39 weeks

Days since transfer: 254 days

Total weight gain: +35.0

Maternity clothes? I'm just trying to make it to the end fully clothed haha! I am definitely wearing the same 2 to 3 things over and over, simply because they {mostly} fit. I have officially outgrown most of my maternity clothes, but refuse to buy anything else...because he could come ANY day now! My belly is even starting to hang out from underneath some of Mike's t-shirts...haha.

Sleep: I have actually been sleeping fairly well most nights. I have been napping in the afternoons when the babies nap, so I still have some insomnia at night, but it hasn't been too bad. I am feeling pretty sleepy throughout the day, and feel like I could sleep all day...too bad I can't! :)

Best moment of the week: Hitting full term! Getting my major work to-do's done! Also, learning that we have at least made some progress! It hasn't resulted in actual labor yet {which is frustrating}, but at least I know we're getting closer...even if it's slower than I would like :)

Cravings: I haven't been as hungry, mostly because I have felt nauseated off and on. But I am drinking a TON of ice water, and I am starting to crave sushi, because I am close to being able to eat it again!

Symptoms: Large, uncomfortable, hot. My fingers are pretty swollen, especially in the mornings, and feel a little arthritic for a lot of the day. My feet started swelling today after I had been up and walking around in the heat for a good portion of the day, but sitting with them up for a bit seemed to help. All the signs that labor is impending...

Labor Signs: Oh man. I had one full day of contractions, back pain, hot flashes, nausea...all the signs pointed to him coming at any moment. But I have had absolutely zero labor symptoms for the past 6 days...he is hanging on to the bitter end! Despite that crazy day of "almost" labor, I am still dilated at 3cm, 50% effaced.

Looking forward to: Meeting this silly little boy :) Come on out, Aiden. We're excited to meet you whenever you're ready!

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Size of baby? About the size of the body of a 4/4 violin, a full rack of pork back ribs, or a box of a dozen Krispy Kreme donuts

Development: While his body isn't growing as much, his brain is. It's already 30% bigger than it was just four weeks ago! His skin has now finally changed from pink to white, because a thicker fat layer has been deposited over the blood vessels.

Heartbeat: Was in the 150s at my OB appointment on Tuesday.

Movement: Still moving all the time. His movements are increasingly more painful, as I feel his little knees and elbows.

Current Position: Head down, station -2

38 Weeks

How far along? 38 weeks

Days since transfer: 247 days

Total weight gain: +34.0

Maternity clothes? Still the same...but really, whatever will fit :)

Sleep: Still getting up in the middle of the night to pee. I am staying up a bit later, and am able to sleep until about 4pm...and then seem to be up for the day. I guess that's better than being up from 2am-4/5am? Blah.

Best moment of the week: Getting more freezer meals done! We are at full capacity in our freezer, so we are all set for when he arrives...and I am thankful, because all the extra meal prep hasn't been my favorite. But I know I will appreciate it a month or two from now :)

Cravings: Jimmy Johns veggie sandwich. I still ate an obscene amount of food this week, so I am not surprised at all by the last minute weight gain...

Symptoms: Large and uncomfortable. Still not quite to the extent of the twins, but since I am not on bed rest, I am pretty tired and achy by the end of the day. He is definitely sitting on my bladder pretty much all day, and it can be pretty uncomfortable to sit in certain positions because he is so low.

Labor Signs: Nothing this week. I mean, I have had some contractions, but they are back to here and there, nothing consistent {though they seem to be a little stronger}. After all that panic last week that he could come at any minute, we made zero progress and I saw no other signs of labor coming. So who knows when he'll make his debut. I'll go back to my OB tomorrow to see if I have made any progress at all.

Looking forward to: My OB appointment tomorrow! I am really hoping I have dilated a little further...I'm ready to meet this sweet boy!

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Size of baby? About the size of a gallon of ice cream or bucket of fried chicken, an Oscar statuette, or a beach ball {LOL- yep}

Development: All systems are almost go! He is continuing to shed vernix and lanugo, and he's swallowing amniotic fluid. His lungs are still maturing and producing more and more surfactant. He's continuing to add fat and fine-tune his brain and nervous system.

Heartbeat: Looking forward to hearing it again tomorrow...it just won't ever get old :)

Movement: He's still moving quite a bit. Lots of hiccups and belly rolls!

Current Position: Head down!

38 weeks- twin pregnancy - this was the last bump photo before Eli and Maddie were born! I thought it would be fun to compare the 2 bumps in the same outfit...definitely a little smaller this time around :)

37 Weeks

How far along? 37 weeks

Days since transfer: 240 days

Total weight gain: +32.0

Maternity clothes? Yes. My running shorts and t-shirt uniform is working only because I am wearing Mike's t-shirts...but I only have 1 or 2 pairs of shorts that don't feel too tight and uncomfortable. Definitely running out of options...at least cute ones :)

Sleep: I think good sleep is officially behind me...at least for a few months. It has been insomnia, but the last couple of nights, it has been contractions. So that's super fun.

Best moment of the week: Definitely checking more things off the baby to-do list! We got all the remaining baby items out of the attic, installed the car seats, knocked out a few more freezer meals, packed our hospital bags, and finished the nursery. Whew! I had a bit of a panic moment last week, thinking he was coming any minute, so I pushed Mike to help me get all this stuff done. Now I can breathe a little easier knowing that we are really ready for him now :)

Cravings: Nothing specific, but I have been wanting ALL. THE. FOOD. Seriously, I have been SO hungry this week. I have eaten an embarrassingly large quantity of food haha.

Symptoms: We hit early term! So there are fewer concerns for preemie issues, which is such a blessing. I have felt pretty achy and tired this week. My fingers are pretty swollen in the mornings, and I have to pee every 10 minutes haha.

Labor Signs: Things are definitely happening. I will spare you all the details, but there are definite changes, even ones that I never saw with Eli and Maddie. The good thing is that Google tells me that labor could be hours or still weeks away. So that's {not} helpful...I have also had some legitimate contractions this past few weeks. To the point where I actually feel them, and start timing them, but they just go away. But nothing at all today, and at my OB appointment this afternoon, I was still only dilated at 2cm {50% effaced}...so who knows? 

Looking forward to: A jam-packed weekend! We have been trying to meet with a number of people because we know we'll be off the radar for a bit when Aiden is born, so we have a ton planned this weekend. Eli needs a haircut, dinner with Granny and Grumpz, breakfast with friends, a Sam's run to stock up for baby, a friend's baptism, dessert with friends... we might have gone overboard with the scheduling, but it will be fun nonetheless!

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Size of baby? About the size of a Zack Morris phone, half a medium pizza, or a lightweight kettlebell

Development: His lungs are likely mature, and he is packing on about a half an ounce per day {or half a pound per week}. He is practicing his breathing by inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid, sucking his thumb, blinking, and pivoting from side to side. His head is huge {awesome}, about the circumference as his chest. My development app also says that mamas carrying boys tend to eat more that those expecting girls...so that explains my crazy appetite haha.

Heartbeat: Running in the 130s today :)

Movement: He is still moving a good amount- stretching, rolling, and wiggling. And it kind of hurts when he moves around.

Current Position: Head down!

37 weeks- twin pregnancy

36 Weeks

How far along? 36 weeks

Days since transfer: 233 days

Total weight gain: +30.0

Maternity clothes? Yep...and I officially started wearing Mike's t-shirts haha. Sometimes you just need to cover that belly and not have it stick out the bottom of the shirt you are wearing, even if you're hanging out at home...

Sleep: I have been up several times in the middle of the night, but thankfully have been able to fall back to sleep fairly easily. Or at least with enough time to get at least an extra hour of sleep before I have to get up and start my day. I have noticed that it is getting harder and harder to get up in the mornings...it's like I am waking up right in the middle of a sleep cycle, so I just feel so groggy, like I could sleep all day.

Best moment of the week: Checking in on our sweet boy! I am still a little sad I haven't been able to SEE him as often as we saw Eli and Maddie, but I am thankful for that doppler and the ability to hear his little heartbeat!

Cravings: Still hard boiled eggs and kale...at least it's healthy {and I can actually eat it!}

Symptoms: I have felt A LOT more achy this week...by the end of the day, my back is killing me, and I am definitely waddling just because my legs hurt haha. I definitely had to put my wedding rings on a necklace this week. My fingers are pretty swollen with the heat, so it was just safer to go ahead and remove those. My feet haven't started swelling yet, so I am kind of surprised. Though I am sure that's coming :)

Labor Signs: He has definitely dropped! As of my OB appointment on Tuesday, I was already 2cm dilated, and my doctor said she could feel his head. She doesn't think I will make it to my due date and advised me to make sure I had my hospital bag packed {!} I had a lot of cramping after that appointment for about a day, but thankfully that subsided. I think next week's appointment will be a better indicator of whether or not I am progressing in any significant way.

Looking forward to: Meeting our little guy- we're so close! Although, I have to be honest: I had a little panic moment when my OB said she didn't think I would make it to my due date. Really, if he came tomorrow, we'd be fine. But there is still so much I want to get done before he makes his arrival, so I am hoping for at least another couple of weeks to get it all done!

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Size of baby? About the size of a 2L bottle of soda, a footlong sub, a throw pillow, or a power drill

Development: Bring on the pink skin and chubby little legs! His growth will slow down in the coming weeks. Most of his bones and cartilage are quite soft and most of his systems are pretty mature. Blood circulation has been perfected, and his immune system has developed enough to protect him from infections outside the womb. His digestive system still needs a few finishing touches though.

Heartbeat: Was running in the 150s at my appointment on Tuesday

Movement: Still moving all the time, and poor little guy has had a lot of hiccups. But I can definitely tell that his movements are easing up a bit...he's finally running out of room!

Current Position: Head down!

36 weeks- twin pregnancy

35 Weeks

Oh yeah...that would be my idea.

How far along? 35 weeks

Days since transfer: 226 days

Total weight gain: +28.0 {so much for gaining half of what I did with twins haha}

Maternity clothes? Yep. My running shorts and t-shirts are still my go-to during the day, but my belly is definitely sticking out from underneath my shirts. It's SUPER attractive. I am smaller than I was with Eli & Maddie, but I forget that I was on bedrest with them for the last 6 weeks. And I basically wore Mike's t-shirts and stretchy pajama pants {or let's be honest, no pants, since I was at home haha}. That's not exactly acceptable in public :)

Sleep: Guess the insomnia is here to stay. Sigh. I have felt the need to nap in the afternoons, but just haven't been able to as often as I would like. This little guy just doesn't seem to understand that Mama has things to do! :)

Best moment of the week: Getting more of Aiden's nursery ready! I just have a few decor items to work on, but otherwise, it's pretty much done. That's such a good feeling! Also, Mike taking his last work trip until after Aiden comes. We can definitely manage for a couple of days on our own, but it is getting increasingly more difficult to wrangle 2 toddlers all day by myself without relief at night. So we're glad he's sticking close to home for awhile.

Cravings: Hard boiled eggs. And kale. 

Symptoms: More of the same...Braxton Hicks {especially when I do too much during the day}. Insomnia. Sciatic pain. Snoring. Waddling. Achy. Hot. General big-ness. My fingers are swollen a bit in the mornings, so I wonder how soon I will need to remove my rings...also, I haven't mentioned this yet, but let's talk linea nigra. I had it with Eli and Maddie, and it got super dark. It was just starting to fade when I got pregnant with Aiden, but it hasn't really darkened until now. Not quite as dark as before, but definitely more noticeable. Such a strange pregnancy thing.

Labor Signs: Just the Braxton Hicks here and there. Nothing consistent or worrisome. My body is also gearing up for breastfeeding, so I am hopeful that's a good sign for nursing this little guy!

Looking forward to: Checking in on Aiden next week! My OB appointments will start getting closer together now that we are getting ready to hit baby month! Also, a fun, full weekend: sweet missionary friends over for dinner and then swimming and lunch with family.

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Size of baby? About the size of a carton of one dozen eggs, a 50 lb. rubber hex dumbbell, or a picnic basket

Development: He will pack on the baby fat until delivery day! His brain is developing at a rapid pace, though his skull will remain soft {good thing for Mommy}.

Heartbeat: Looking forward to hearing it again on Tuesday!

Movement: He is still moving all the time, though this week, his movements felt more violent haha. It almost feels like he is stretching out as far {and as hard} as he can in every direction and is somewhat frustrated with his lack of space :)  It is actually starting to hurt when he moves!

Current Position: Still head down. He likes to stick his little butt out on my right side...and then bounce on my bladder.

35 weeks- twin pregnancy

34 Weeks

How far along? 34 weeks

Days since transfer: 219 days

Total weight gain: +26.0

Maternity clothes? Yep. But clothes are overrated these days. It's SO. dang. HOT.

Sleep: I have been sleeping a little better this week, but have just felt so tired. It has been hard to wake up in the morning; I feel like it's a struggle to get going!

Best moment of the week: My mama getaway! I got SO much done for Aiden while I had some solo time away, and I am in full nesting mode :)

Cravings: Lots and lots of ice water. 

Symptoms: Waddling, especially at the end of the day. I can't help it...I started getting some sciatic pain, so it just happens. The sciatic pain only seems to bother me when I get up from sitting on the floor, or if I am sitting in one position for too long. I also did something to my ribs. I don't know if I pulled a muscle or what, but it has been pretty painful. The first day it happened, I heard a pop and then could barely breathe or move. Thankfully it is getting better each day, but it has definitely been a nuisance. My feet haven't started swelling yet, but they feel pretty achy and tired by the end of the day. 

Labor Signs: If I do too much during the day, I feel more Braxton Hicks. Which is annoying, because I'm trying to get stuff done! Haha. Guess I'll have to be a little more careful...

Looking forward to: Celebrating our niece's Orangealicious birthday party this weekend :)  Getting more done in Aiden's nursery...it's coming along!

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Size of baby? About the size of a large bag of potato chips, a baseball glove, or a ukulele

Development: He closes his eyes when he sleeps and opens them when he's awake, which means he is starting to settle into a sleep schedule. And his fingernails are fully grown!

Heartbeat: It's weird to not hear it as often as I did for Eli and Maddie!

Movement: He's still moving all the time. He does seem to be sleeping a little bit more, but not for long periods...

Current Position: Still head down, though I think he moves transverse sometimes.

34 weeks- twin pregnancy

33 Weeks

How far along? 33 weeks

Days since transfer: 212 days

Total weight gain: +26.6

Maternity clothes? Yes. Though to be fair, I mostly wear running shorts and t-shirts...but I'm starting to outgrow those {aka belly poking out from under non-maternity t-shirts haha}, so not sure what my wardrobe will look like the rest of the pregnancy. I might have to be more dressed up at home out of necessity haha.

Sleep: I am still experiencing some insomnia, so it doesn't seem to be subsiding like I had hoped. I have also felt much more tired this week. 

Best moment of the week: Spending time in San Antonio with family! Also, setting up Aiden's crib and arranging furniture in his nursery...it's feeling a little more real!

Cravings: Still craving bean and cheese tacos, and now Whataburger. Darn you Crohn's Disease haha. It's probably a good thing I can't eat these things...I'm sure my body will thank me later :)

Symptoms: Just more of the same: insomnia, achy hips, hot, snoring {sorry babe!}. I started feeling a little bit of heartburn and have just been more tired this week. I have also felt more hungry this week. So I'm actually surprised that I only gained less than half a pound. Is "feeling large" a symptom? Haha! I'm not as big/round as I was with Eli and Maddie, but little Aiden is certainly sticking WAY out there...

Labor Signs: Some random Braxton Hicks here and there, but nothing else yet.

Looking forward to: A Mama Day Off this weekend :)

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Size of baby? About the size of a fanny pack, a small chihuahua, or a US size 10 boat shoe

Development: He's gaining about half a pound a week, and he is starting to distinguish between day and night. A big milestone this week: he has his own immune system! 

Heartbeat: Was running in the 140s at the last OB appointment.

Movement: He still has a lot of room to move...and he often finds himself in {to me} uncomfortable positions. He doesn't actually kick as often or as hard as Eli and Maddie did {thankfully!} but he seems to roll a lot more. Feeling lots of hiccups this week!

Current Position: Currently head down, so hopefully he stays there!

33 weeks- twin pregnancy

32 Weeks

Aiden means "little fire"  :)

How far along? 32 weeks

Days since transfer: 205 days

Total weight gain: +26.0

Maternity clothes? Yep. I prefer wearing skirts/dresses, just because it seems cooler than pants. I was able to find one pair of maternity shorts, but probably will need to find another pair before the end of this pregnancy. There's still a lot of 100 degree days left...

Sleep: I have still had some insomnia, but have been able to go back to sleep a little sooner more often this week. I hope that this means that the insomnia is on its way out?? One can hope/dream :)

Best moment of the week: Having Mike home in the middle of the week for the 4th of July. Also, hearing our sweet boy's heartbeat this afternoon! 

Cravings: Bean and cheese tacos. Another craving I can't eat, but still dreaming of it...  :)

Symptoms: Still some achy hips, but otherwise feeling ok. My belly doesn't feel overly heavy yet, but it is definitely LARGE and in charge {and often lopsided haha}.

Labor Signs: Other than some Braxton Hicks, none, thankfully! It's crazy to think that I was on bed rest at this point with Eli and Maddie. 

Looking forward to: Starting to get things ready for delivery! It's time to register at the hospital, order my breast pump, etc. Also, we're starting to get Aiden's nursery set up! We ordered his crib, I finished assembling his dresser, and we're working on getting everything together :)

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Size of baby? About the size of a deerstalker hat {Sherlock, anyone?}, a Bento box, or a hard hat

Development: All of his major organs are fully developed now, except for his lungs. He has been practicing his skills to prepare for life outside the womb: swallowing, breathing, kicking, sucking. Fat is accumulating under his skin, which is no longer transparent but opaque. He is starting to sleep in more regular cycles now too.

Heartbeat: Was in the 140s at my OB appointment today. When she was trying to read it, he kept kicking at the doppler, and clearly was not interested in her listening to him haha.

Movement: He's still moving pretty frequently, though he seems to sleep in the morning. I can still feel him flipping, so I know he still has too much room in there...

Current Position: He was head down today, with his little butt protruding out the top side of my belly. This is the time he should start to settle into his birthing position, so I'm hoping he's going to behave and stay there. 

32 weeks- twin pregnancy

31 Weeks

Lookin' pretty rough this week haha...no makeup, hair in hat = week of swim lessons with Eli and Maddie!

How far along? 31 weeks

Days since transfer: 198 days

Total weight gain: +24.0

Maternity clothes? Some of my maternity pants are starting to feel a little uncomfortable, and I am realizing that I only wore them at the beginning of my twin pregnancy. So even this bump is outgrowing my maternity clothes...

Sleep: This week has been the return of the insomnia...I fall asleep just fine {because I am just so tired at the end of the day}. But then when I inevitably wake up in the wee hours of the morning to pee, I can't go back to sleep for several hours. It's starting to get pretty annoying, as I am basically starting every day at 2 or 3 am...

Best moment of the week: When Mike came home! He traveled out of town over the weekend, so we were glad to have him back home. Also, getting to spend the week with my parents! My dad was here over the weekend, and then my mom stayed for the week to help with Eli and Maddie's swim class.

Cravings: Nothing specific this week. Just can't get enough water!

Symptoms: My hips are starting to feel a bit more achy, and I am starting to feel a little bit of a slow down. Still not quite to the extent of my twin pregnancy, but definitely feeling the heat and weight of pregnancy. Something didn't agree with my stomach this week, and I had a night where I was pretty sick; the hard part was that baby boy had flipped and his little head was practically up under my ribs, which made my sickness all that much more uncomfortable and difficult. I literally had to push on his head to get him to move, just so I could breathe!

Labor Signs: I am adding this category now, only because I went into preterm labor with Eli and Maddie just after 31 weeks. Hopefully we won't see any signs of labor anytime soon, but I am definitely on the lookout, just to be sure!

Looking forward to: My next OB appointment! I see her again next Thursday, and then after that will start seeing her every 2 weeks...how are we already at that point??

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Size of baby? About the size of a 1 pound jar of Nutella, a football, or a large movie popcorn

Development: His brain connections are developing at a rapid pace. He is now processing information, tracking light, and perceiving signals from all five senses. He is growing fast- quickly approaching his birth length. He is also putting in longer stretches of sleep. He is making faces, hiccuping, swallowing, breathing, pedaling with his feet and hands, and sucking his thumb.

Heartbeat: Looking forward to hearing it again next week!

Movement: It seems like he is flipping a lot. I definitely felt his little head up by my ribs a couple of times this week, so I need him to settle down, get his little head in the right position, and stay there! :)

Gender Predictions? It's a BOY! :)

31 weeks- twin pregnancy

30 Weeks

How far along? 30 weeks

Days since transfer: 191 days

Total weight gain: +22.2

Maternity clothes? Yes. I am definitely feeling the heat of the summer. I rarely get cold while pregnant anyway, so the added summer heat adds a new dynamic to my wardrobe choices. I doubt there will be much pants-wearing {at home} as the summer wears on. It's just. too. hot.

Sleep: I have slept a little better this week. My insomnia seemed to be a little better {though not completely gone}, but I have woken up quite a bit with back pain, so that hasn't been super fun.

Best moment of the week: Celebrating Father's Day! I am just so thankful that we get to celebrate this sweet day, and now with another little one on the way :)

Cravings: Grilled cocktail onions. Haha. We grilled chicken kabobs this past weekend, and we use cocktail onions on them, and I just can't get enough of them! Which is funny, because I don't really like onions in general. But grilled cocktail onions? Yes please :)

Symptoms: I have had some more headaches this week. I got my blood work back from my OB visit and learned that I was trending toward anemia. So I have to increase my iron intake, which will hopefully start to help with my headaches. My hips started aching a bit more this week, and I tweaked my back at some point, so that has been pretty sore/tender. So all kinds of aches and pains this week haha.

Looking forward to: Having my parents here this weekend! Mike is traveling over the weekend, so I am thankful to have the extra hands and just be able to have some good family time.

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Size of baby? About the size of half a large Cheesecake Factory cheesecake or a garden gnome

Development: He's going to start packing on the weight at a rate of half a pound per week for the next seven weeks {awesome}. His brain is starting to develop grooves and indentations, which allow for an increased amount of brain tissue. The lanugo {soft, downy hair covering his body} is starting to disappear, and his bone marrow has completely taken over production of red blood cells. 

Heartbeat: Was 141 bpm at our last appointment

Movement: Moving all the time! My development app says his movements may have slowed this week because he's running out of room...but my little guy is still super active, and I love it :)

Gender Predictions? It's a BOY! :)

30 weeks- twin pregnancy

29 Weeks

How far along? 29 weeks

Days since transfer: 184 days

Total weight gain: +22.0

Maternity clothes? Yep. I was getting ready for church last week and had one of those moments where nothing fit right, and I just felt like a whale in everything I put on. I'm not any bigger than I was with the twins, but I guess I just wasn't feelin' the maternity wear in that moment. Better get over that quick, because this little one is growing fast, and I still have awhile to go!

Sleep: Still having a lot of insomnia this week, which isn't super awesome. Maybe I am just noticing it more this time around, since I can't just take a nap in the middle of the day anymore. Plus, I'm finding that if I am able to sneak a quick nap while E&M are napping, it just makes it that much harder to fall asleep at night. But apparently, when I am able to sleep, I sleep pretty soundly. We have officially entered the snoring phase of pregnancy. Poor Mike sweetly said the other day that he might have to go sleep in another room...I thought for sure I would last a little longer before that started, but I guess not. Sorry babe!

Best moment of the week: Lots of fun things this week...seeing our sweet boy on ultrasound this week, and learning that he finally moved head down! Let's hope he stays that way haha. Also, scoring some baby items for Aiden, while simultaneously passing on some items to other twin moms- win, win! I got a Boppy pillow for free and blessed another twin mama with our Twin Z pillow. I also found a Solly baby wrap for an awesome price, which I am really excited about because I want to baby wear Aiden and needed something more lightweight than my Boba wrap for when he first arrives.

Cravings: No weird food dreams this week haha. I actually haven't been super hungry this week. Which you can't tell by the numbers creeping up on the scale...

Symptoms:  I have had some headaches this week, so I am watching those. Thankfully they haven't been too bad. I also started getting a little indigestion, so I am trying to eat smaller meals. And I am almost positive I have had some Braxton Hicks contractions. You would think I would know for sure about that, but I just didn't register them with the twins, so I feel like a total newbie again.

Looking forward to: A free weekend at home before the craziness of some full weekends coming up! Celebrating Father's Day with Mike :)

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Size of baby? About the size of a 1 gallon jug of milk, a loaf of bread, or Gizmo*

Development: He is starting the process of putting on more fat deposits, so his skin will start smoothing out. His kicks and jabs are going to become more vigorous because he is stronger and excitedly responding to all sorts of stimuli.

Heartbeat: Was 141 bpm at 28 weeks + 5 days

Movement: Moving ALL the time! He kicks and jabs constantly. I still am not sure when he sleeps, but for now, I will just enjoy his sweet movements!

Current Position: Head down! Let's hope he stays there...but I know he'll probably flip back and forth until the end :)

*from the movie Gremlins...I had nightmares about this movie for years! But Gizmo was cute :)

29 weeks- twin pregnancy

28 Weeks

How far along? 28 weeks

Days since transfer: 177 days

Total weight gain: +19.0

Maternity clothes? Yep. Though I am realizing that I don't have any maternity shorts, so I may have to go in search of some before too long...

Sleep: Sleep was a little more elusive this week. I finally stopped taking Robitussin at night for my cough, and thankfully my cough didn't keep my up...pregnancy insomnia took care of that. Hopefully my body is just adjusting back to sleeping on its own and the insomnia subsides a little.

Best moment of the week: I have started holding music down low on my belly to try and coax baby boy to flip {since he is currently breech}. I know he has plenty of time to flip on his own, but why not let him enjoy some music? When Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing came on, he REALLY started moving! It was so fun to feel him react and seemingly enjoy the music :)  Also, getting a few more things unpacked and organized for Aiden's nursery. I have a long way to go, but it's a start!

Cravings: More cravings for food I can't have...this week I dreamed about a Chris Madrid's burger and Macho Nachos haha. Chris Madrid's is a San Antonio landmark, and probably my most favorite hamburger in the whole world. Guess it will just have to remain in my dreams... Sigh. 

Symptoms: Is HOT a symptom?? As in, melting, sweating, feels like I am constantly in a sauna hot?? It's going to be a LONG summer haha. I actually felt good for most of the week, but the last couple of days I have felt pretty uncomfortable. Baby boy has been in some awkward positions that just made it hard to sit/stand/lay in any sort of comfortable way {and also makes my belly lopsided}. Mike even said, "it looks like Aiden is sticking out more torpedo-ee" haha. Yep. I'm hoping it's because he is moving head down, like he's supposed to! My hips have been a little more achy this week, but nothing too bad yet. I am still amazed at how good I actually feel at this stage :)

Looking forward to: Eli's first haircut, more time at the pool, and another fun family weekend! :) I go for my glucose test next week, so I look forward to passing that, while also checking on our little man. I will also have another ultrasound to check on those placental lakes, so I'll be happy to actually see our sweet boy again!

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Size of baby? About the size of a Nintendo, a 1 pound basket of wings, or a baseball cap

Development: His newly opened eyes are sensitive to light; sunlight on my belly can penetrate into my uterus and he may see a faint glow {crazy!} About this time, he should be settling head down {come on, baby boy!} He is practicing his blinking skills, coughing, more intense sucking, hiccuping, and better breathing. He may also be dreaming!

Heartbeat: Looking forward to hearing and seeing it again at our ultrasound next week!

Movement: Oh man, this little dude is a mover! I told Mike that there have been several days in a row when I wasn't quite sure when he actually slept because he seemed to move all day AND all night. And the kicking...he kicks me NON-STOP. And just when I think he's calming down and my belly is still for a bit, I'll see my belly jolt in one direction from a kick. I guess when you have more room, you can get more momentum behind your kick??

Gender Predictions? It's a BOY! :)

28 weeks- twin pregnancy

27 Weeks

#namethatmovie :)

How far along? 27 weeks

Days since transfer: 170 days

Total weight gain: +18.2

Maternity clothes? Maternity clothes, yes, but mostly running shorts and t-shirts. Because it's HOT outside already.

Sleep: I have slept a little better this week. Still battling my cough, so nights are rough, but I am at least able to fall asleep lying down {instead of sitting up with a bunch of pillows}.

Best moment of the week: Hearing Aiden's heartbeat! :)  Also, good family time this weekend playing in the water at the spray fountain and the pool!

Cravings: Enjoying lots of watermelon! At 20 cents a pound, we're going to enjoy as much as we can this summer :)

Symptoms: I feel like a broken record, but I am still battling my cough/cold. But other than that, I am not feeling anything pregnancy related. So I guess that's a good thing?

Looking forward to: This last trimester! I have a long list of things I want/need to get done before Aiden's arrival, so I had better start moving haha. I finally got my craft stuff unpacked and organized, so I hope to start working on Aiden's quilt soon :)

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Size of baby? About the size of a pork pie hat {Walter White, anyone?}, a bottle of Sriracha, or a deflated basketball

Development: Baby boy is having a huge growth spurt this week, growing an entire inch this week alone! The network of nerves to the ears are maturing, so he is hearing pretty well now. His tastebuds are developed now, and he is starting to hiccup.

Heartbeat: Running in the 140s at the last appointment 

Movement: Moving all the time! My belly is officially dancing haha. Something different about this pregnancy is that he tends to roll and flip more than kick. Probably because he has a ton more room than Eli and Maddie ever had.

Gender Predictions? It's a BOY! :)

27 weeks- twin pregnancy

26 Weeks

How far along? 26 weeks

Days since transfer: 163 days

Total weight gain: +18.0

Maternity clothes? Yep. I looked back at my twin post at 26 weeks, and I was already growing out of clothes and having to purchase more maternity items. Thankfully, I already have items available and don't have to go searching for anything additional at this point!

Sleep: Sleep has been 50/50 this week. I have slept well when the nighttime cough syrup has worked. But it hasn't worked every night, so coughing has kept me up quite a bit.

Best moment of the week: Having my mom here for the week! And having a 3 day weekend with Mike at home :)

Cravings: Sweet tea. Nothing specifically food related.

Symptoms: I am still working to get rid of my cough. I thought I was getting better, but had a relapse on Tuesday. I ended up going to the doctor to get some antibiotics, so I'm hoping that maybe I can start getting some relief soon! I'm exhausted and ready to be better!

Looking forward to: Checking in on my sweet boy tomorrow!

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Size of baby? About the size of a Double Gulp cup or a pair of work gloves

Development: My development app asked me if my belly was getting heavy yet {since he's weighing about 2 pounds now}...and I just had to laugh. Compared to twins, this little one doesn't feel so bad! :)  His eyes are starting to open this week, which means he is able to to see, though there's not much to look at in my uterus. His iris still doesn't have much pigmentation though. His brain wave activity is gearing up, which means he can hear noises and respond to them {with an increase in pulse rate or movement}. 

Heartbeat: Excited to hear it again tomorrow!

Movement: Pretty much moving all the time. There was one day this week that I didn't feel him as much, and I got kind of worried. But the next day he was back to his usual antics, so I guess he was just taking a rest day :)

Gender Predictions? It's a BOY! :)

Forgive the no makeup, but I am loving my "Twin Mama +1" t-shirt from 3 Little Monkeys! It's super soft, and it just makes me happy :)

26 weeks- twin pregnancy

25 Weeks

I feel like the realization of becoming a mama of 3 is starting to really hit me. I have had several people ask me if this is my first baby, and I just smile and say, "It's actually my third." And it just seems SO SURREAL. To actually say that I am going to have 3 babies is just something I never thought I would get to say. There was a long time when I wasn't sure if I would every have ONE baby, and now, here I am, saying that I am having my third. And I still can hardly believe it. The Lord has been so gracious and kind to us, and I am feeling so overwhelmed by all that He has done. I am having ALL the feels, and just feel so very, very thankful...

How far along? 25 weeks

Days since transfer: 156 days

Total weight gain: +17.0

Maternity clothes? Yep. I am a little surprised at how quickly I am already starting to outgrow some of my maternity clothes...so much for a smaller bump with one!

Sleep: This week I have slept great! But that's probably because of the Robitussin Nighttime I have been taking for my cold/cough. That stuff knocks me out, ensuring a good night's sleep, and I am sure it's the only reason I am still standing at the end of the day. 

Best moment of the week: Grandma came into town! It has been so nice to have my mom here. I appreciate the extra hands, and Eli and Maddie are basically in heaven :)

Cravings: I was trying to figure out what the substitute for a bean and cheese taco would be, and there just isn't anything. For the most part I can have a substitute {turkey burgers/dogs, baked fries, etc.}, but you can't really substitute refried beans. And a cheese taco is just that...a cheese taco, not a bean and cheese taco. So of course, that just made me want a bean and cheese taco more haha.

Symptoms: I have felt pretty sluggish this week, still because of my cough/cold. This cough seems to be lingering, and it just makes me exhausted. I can feel the beginnings of sciatic pain, and I am just praying the cough doesn't make it fully set in yet. Because that's no fun.

Looking forward to: Having a 3 day weekend with Mike! He has been traveling a lot for work {part of the reason for Grandma's visit}, so we are looking forward to having him home for an extended weekend!

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Size of baby? About the size of a popped bag of microwave popcorn, the head of Thor's hammer, or a wide-brimmed fedora 

Development: Baby boy is growing by leaps and bounds! His skin is turning pinker because capillaries are forming under the skin and filling with blood. His lungs are still very much a work in progress; they are starting to produce surfactant {which helps the lungs expand with oxygen after baby is born}, but they are still too undeveloped to sufficiently send oxygen to the bloodstream and release carbon dioxide when he exhales. But his nostrils and nose are starting to work this week, which is allowing him to at least start practicing breathing.

Heartbeat: Looking forward to hearing it again next week!

Movement: He's moving all the time! It's weird to feel him in his breach position.

Gender Predictions? It's a BOY! :)

25 weeks- twin pregnancy

24 Weeks

How far along? 24 weeks

Days since transfer: 149 days

Total weight gain: +15.0

Maternity clothes? Yep! I like that I have a ready-made wardrobe waiting for me already!

Sleep: This week has been difficult because I have been sick. I got a pretty bad cold, so sleep has been a bit more elusive with all the congestion and coughing. Not super fun. But I finally got some approved cough medicine ideas from my OB and slept solid last night!

Best moment of the week: Reaching viability! This is such a huge milestone in pregnancy, and while my anxiety has been lower in this pregnancy than the last, there's always that tiny worry in the back of my head. Jesus holds this little life in His hands, but there is reassurance in knowing that we wouldn't have to fight for medical care at this point if something happened. Also, picking out Aiden's nursery fabric!! 

Cravings: Nothing specific this week.

Symptoms: I have had a cold this week, so I have felt pretty miserable. For the record, coughing during pregnancy is NO BUENO. I have felt a lot of aches and pains this week, but think I am at least headed back in the right direction health-wise.

Looking forward to: Grandma is coming!!!  :)

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Size of baby? About the size of a Philly cheesesteak or a French press 

Development: Baby boy's brain cells have matured enough to develop conscious thought and, most likely, memory. He is busy growing organs, bones, muscle, and accumulating all that adorable baby fat. His face is almost fully formed, complete with eyelashes, eyebrows, and hair. He can hear all kinds of sounds now...including the crazy antics of his brother and sister!

Heartbeat: Looking forward to hearing that sound again at the end of the month!

Movement: He's a busy little boy! He is pretty consistently active throughout the day, with most of his activity in the afternoon and evening. It definitely feels different with just one, and different with him being breach right now. But I will never get tired of the sweet kicks and rolls :)

Gender Predictions? It's a BOY! :)

24 weeks- twin pregnancy

23 Weeks

How far along? 23 weeks

Days since transfer: 142 days

Total weight gain: +15.0

Maternity clothes? Yep. I think the weather has finally decided to be warm, so hopefully I can start utilizing more of my previous maternity clothes. My regular t-shirts are getting pretty tight around my belly haha

Sleep: This week was busy, so sleeping was no problem. My head hits the pillow, and I am OUT until my alarm goes off. Mike says I have definitely started my pregnancy snoring, which is super sexy. Sorry babe!

Best moment of the week: Getting to see our sweet boy on ultrasound! He was too active to get a good photo, but he kept kicking back at the ultrasound wand and waving :)  Also getting a dresser delivered for our nursery! It's going to be awhile before I can really focus or work on Aiden's room, but it was still fun for that to be delivered.

Cravings: Just super thirsty this week...probably need to increase my water intake since I actually felt so thirsty...

Symptoms: Overall, I feel pretty good. Though I am starting to feel the aches and pains of being pregnant and chasing toddlers all day. My back feels pretty achy by the end of the day, and I am more than ready to put my feet up and just sit for awhile. I struggled with some constipation this week {TMI, sorry}. I didn't really experience that with Eli and Maddie, so it kind of caught me by surprise. Gotta love pregnancy!

Looking forward to: Celebrating with a sweet friend at her baby shower this weekend!

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Size of baby? About the size of a box of Mac & Cheese or a can of WD-40

Development: His veins and arteries are developing, giving his skin a red hue. His skin is still pretty saggy since it grows faster than fat, but he should start filling out pretty soon. He's supposed to double his weight over the next 4 weeks alone!

Heartbeat: Was running in the 140s when we saw him on the ultrasound last week

Movement: All the time! He seems to be active throughout the day, and my belly is starting to roll haha

Gender Predictions? It's a BOY! :)

23 weeks- twin pregnancy

22 Weeks

New house, new background! :)

How far along? 22 weeks

Days since transfer: 135 days

Total weight gain: +12ish {our scale broke in the move and we got a different one, so I'm pretty sure the measure is different. I'll know for sure after my OB appointment tomorrow}.

Maternity clothes? Finally. High panel pants and side-ruched shirts never felt so comfortable :)

Sleep: I have slept like a rock this week. With our move and chasing toddlers in a new house with a new routine, I have had zero trouble sleeping all night, and I am so thankful!

Best moment of the week: Moving into our new house! It has been crazy for sure, but it has also been really exciting. Now we're working on getting unpacked, and our sweet baby boy's nursery is our current holding place for all our boxes. 

Cravings: Sweet tea. I crave/want this on a regular basis, even not pregnant. But nothing sounds more refreshing these days than a nice cold sweet tea :)

Symptoms: By the end of the day, my body is aching a good bit, particularly my back. When I am able to finally sit and relax and get some rest, I feel better. Just need some time to recharge and get ready for the next day! Today was also my last official day to wear/carry both of my babies. Usually, when we are going into a restaurant, I don't mess with the stroller and just wear Maddie in the Ergo carrier, and carry Eli on my hip. Strength-wise, I can still do that. But bump-wise...it wasn't happening today. It was just too uncomfortable to have Maddie crammed against my belly. To be honest, it lasted longer than I thought it would!

Looking forward to: Seeing our sweet boy on ultrasound tomorrow! And family time this weekend! Mike was traveling a bit for work this week, so we are excited to have him home over the weekend for our first weekend as a family {without extended family} in our new house!

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Size of baby? About the size of a bag of half dozen bagels, a package of Oreos,  or a baseball mitt

Development: Baby weighs a whole pound already {and something tells me it might be a little more, since all my kiddos tend to measure bigger than their milestone}. He is developing his sense of touch, and his sense of sight is also becoming more fine-tuned. He can perceive light and dark much better, and he can hear my voice, my heartbeat, my blood circulating, and my gurgling stomach :)

Heartbeat: Can't wait to hear that sweet sound tomorrow!

Movement: He is moving A LOT more this week. He seems to be more active at the end of the day and in the early morning.

Gender Predictions? It's a BOY! :)

22 weeks- twin pregnancy

21 Weeks

How far along? 21 weeks

Days since transfer: 128 days

Total weight gain: +10.0 {no gain this week...hmmm}

Maternity clothes? I successfully made it to our move without unpacking our maternity clothes! But now it's definitely time :)

Sleep: Still sleeping fairly well. I had some insomnia again this week, but I think that's mostly due to our move...my brain just can't shut off as it runs through my endless to-do list.

Best moment of the week: Getting to feel baby more! I love the kicks and flips, and I especially love when Mike can feel them too. Also, getting to show the new house to family! We're getting closer to the actual transition to the new house, and while things are definitely crazy, we are so excited! 

Cravings: Nothing specific this week. I still have a sweet tooth, but haven't actually eaten much sugar this week.

Symptoms: Overall, I feel good! Baby boy is starting to kick my bladder a bit more, so I find myself running to the bathroom more often. Also, pregnancy/mommy brain has definitely set in. I mean, I am definitely dumber after having Eli and Maddie {it's a real thing, and it makes me so sad haha}. But it's definitely getting worse...you know, like when you schedule a TV installation without having moved your TV yet...oops. There really is no defense for that, but I will say that the technician was able to successfully complete the install without my TV, so there's that. WIN. And I provided him a good laugh and story. So, you're welcome TV Installation Guy...you won't forget the crazy lady that scheduled a TV installation without her TV and had 2 crazy toddlers running around, dropping Sam's-sized Cholula bottles on the tile floor. Thank you for at least trying to keep your laughter at bay :)

Looking forward to: Moving into our new home! And getting unpacked...I am ready to be rid of boxes!

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Size of baby? About the size of a Chipotle burrito, a bottle of Sriracha, or an 80s fanny pack

Development: This week, measurements switch from crown-to-rump to crown-to-heel length. His little arms and legs are finally in proportion, and neurons are connected between the brain and muscles. Cartilage is turning to bone. So all this means more control over limb movements. But despite all of his movement, he is still sleeping a lot. He is practicing his swallowing, and his taste buds are developed.

Heartbeat: Supposedly you can hear baby's heartbeat with a stethoscope now...I haven't tried it, but if I get access to one, I will definitely try it!

Movement: Definitely feeling him A LOT more! I can even feel him doing somersaults haha. Mike got to feel him kick this week, which is always fun! 

Gender Predictions? It's a BOY! :)

21 weeks- twin pregnancy