Visit from Flat Stacy

Flat Stacy, sister to Flat Stanley, was mailed to us for a visit.  With our trip pending, Stacy had a quick tour to learn more about San Diego.

 She toured our garden, smelled the roses in bloom in March.

 Was inspired by our lettuce garden...maybe more veggies are in her future?!

 Orange blossoms are nearly ready to bloom.  She could nearly smell the sweet nectarine perfume from the tree.

 Our first nectarine fruit is forming.  

(Soon I'll be snipping all the fruit off to promote deeply established roots.  Hopefully this will help the trees survive the brutally hot dry months here)

 Stacy came to work with me and we took a walk around the San Diego State University campus at lunch.  It was a beautiful day.

 Picture with the first president of SDSU :)

 The library...mostly underground.

 This is the new student center, it is huge.  This will house some activities such as bowling, possibly a movie theatre and of course eateries among other things.  SDSU tore down the previous student center built in the 1970s to expand.

 This is the Children's Center, where Elena goes to school/day care.  She's right on campus with me.

 The kids have been into space exploration so a corner of one of the two classrooms available to Elena has been transformed into a space station, imagination abound.  Elena was not thrilled at having to hold Stacy; I guess paper dolls are not her thing.

 Checking out one of the control seats.

 Taking her first airplane ride...we're boarded and ready to go.

Thanks for the visit.  We hope you had a great time, Stacy, even if it was short!

Ultrasound #4

First let me say, I have officially changed my doctors back to UCSD (where I had Elena).  I had my first appointment Monday with mid-wife Anne and I absolutely love her.  In one visit, I am amazed by the difference in care between the two hospital groups.  She gave me a lot of information, talked to me for awhile about what happened with Elena and told me how we will proceed with this baby taking into account my experience with Elena's delivery.  Since Elena had shoulder dystocia, I'm not allowed to give birth at the UCSD Birth Center again, I will be in the labor and delivery unit with a mid-wife and an OB.  She assured me that UCSD is trying to reduce their c-section rate so unlike my previous care providers, they are open to trying a natural delivery.  No medical waiver forms required!

Now that I've caught everyone up, on to the new business.  Friday we had our fourth ultrasound.  The baby was less than cooperative, above is the best picture we could get.  You are looking at a profile with an arm up, fist near the nose.  The baby was really low and facing down.  Despite my jumping, stretching, moving, peeing, this baby did not want to move out of it's little cocoon for the entire 2-1/2 hours we were there.  Signs of another independent, strong-willed child?

The remainder of this post is going to be more of a journal entry for my own memory, it may be more information then you'd like to know...if so feel free to skip the rest of the text and enjoy the picture above.

The ultrasound appointment was scheduled for 1 hour, we left 2-1/2 hours after our appointment began.  It was a long and exhausting afternoon.  When we had this ultrasound done with Elena, it was a completely different experience.  With Elena, we were in a nice cushy medical office.  The waiting room was full of patients and ultrasound was relatively quick (she was active and maybe a little bit further along).  This time, we were sent to the fetal genetics lab inside the hospital, complete with a hospital setting and very few patients waiting to be seen.  I suppose this should have been a red flag but I was so excited, it has taken a couple of days for everything to set in.  The set up was different because Anne has classified this pregnancy as a high risk.  Until Friday I thought it was just a high risk delivery due to the issues we had with Elena.  I guess high risk really means high risk and does not distinguish between pregnancy and delivery.

The purpose of this ultrasound was to see if the baby is developing correctly--neural tube closed, heart valves complete, blood flowing the correct way in and out of the heart, all limbs accounted for, and to verify the location of the placenta.  All seems to be good here.

One reason our appointment was so long was because the baby was not participating and they couldn't get all images of it's heart/blood flow.  Another reason was because they took extra time when they found a red flag.  The baby measures appropriately at 18-18.5 weeks, so around the 50-55th percentile.  The abdomen is much larger, measuring in at the 97th percentile which is of concern to the doctor.  Babies at this age tend to weigh right around 8 ounces, I've got a 10 ounce whopper!  After the ultrasound we spoke to Dr. Wolf, a perinatologist (mom-baby specialist).  Dr. Wolf put some things in perspective about my own PCOS insulin resistance and how that most likely impacted my pregnancy with Elena and is also impacting this baby's size.

When Dr. Wolf told us the news, my reaction was....but I'm eating so much better with this baby than I did my first.  Mind you, I didn't eat horribly with Elena but I was always hungry so always eating.  And I had my share of empty calories with Elena--ice cream, cookies, etc.  Sweets with this baby aren't as prominent, chocolate still doesn't taste right, not so big on cookies or ice cream.  I'm currently eating about 3 servings of fruit, minimizing breads, lots of protein and trying to increase my green leafy veggies per Anne's request.  I had noticed early in the pregnancy salads taste pretty good now, not usually a salad girl.  I may need to bring down my bread intake a little, but I'm already eating a fairly gestational diabetic friendly diet.

In an attempt to be optimistic, Dr. Wolf said it's better to have a bigger baby than one that is too small.  At least he can tell the placenta is working properly.  As Carl said, Dr. Wolf wasn't overly concerned.  Dr. Wolf will be in contact with Anne and has requested I come back for another ultrasound at 28 weeks to evaluate the baby's growth.  Opposite of Elena, this baby will be having a lot more ultrasounds.  I think Elena only had 3.  I will also have a scan at 36 weeks to evaluate my chances of having a natural childbirth.  Anne informed me that despite the results of the 36 week scan, it is my decision to try natural or opt for a c-section; though I already know if the tummy is too big, everyone pushes for a c-section--otherwise the belly may become lodged after delivering the hardest part, the head and shoulders. 

I will be going in for an early gestational diabetes test this week.  And then the regular glucose test at 24 weeks.  Hoping to have normal results for both tests.

To leave on a good note, occasionally, I have been able to feel baby movements on the outside of my tummy.  They just started yesterday and have been few and far between.  So far no one else has felt them...the movements are too quick and unpredictable.

Baby Folklore: Is Cupcake a Boy or Girl?

We've made it to 18 weeks / 4.5 months.  This is a milestone because any time in the next couple of weeks there should be an ultrasound which may show us the sex of Cupcake.  Between feeling movement last week and learning a little more about this life growing inside me, I'm quite excited.  

I thought it would be fun to play around with the baby folklore, maybe you can guess the sex of the baby....give it a shot!  According to the folklore:

Baby's heartbeat: lower than 140 beats per minute = boy, over 140 = girl

Heartbeat was 160 on 3/11....girl?

Morning sickness: no sickness in the 1st 12 weeks =  boy, sickness = girl

If you've been keeping up with the blog, you'd know I've had my troubles with sickness....girl?

(for the record, I don't recall morning sickness with Elena)

How you carry the baby bump: all out front = boy, all around = girl

I feel all out front....boy?

(though some days are starting to feel all around; I carried Elena all out in front)

Carrying low = boy, carrying high = girl

hmm...might be too early for this one

Food cravings: salty / protein = boy, sweet / fruits = girl

Fruit is the easiest to get down, loving melon, strawberries and blueberries....girl?

But I don't crave my normal sweet things like chocolate, cookies, candy.  Protein is hit or miss on chicken and pork but bring on the beef and fish...boy?   

Skin becomes dry = boy, skin is soft = girl

Dry and itchy skin....boy?

It seems the folklore really has a 50% chance of being correct. 

What do think?

Snow Capped Mountain View

I suppose I'm starting to feel bursts of energy because I completely overbooked our weekend.  Yesterday we had a play date with an old friend which I haven't seen in over a year.  Then last night we celebrated a friend's 50th birthday.  It was an adult party, Elena was welcome and we were surprised how well she did.  Then the time change, which always impacts our day.  Why is it that we still have day light savings??  This morning we headed out nice and early to celebrate a friend's 4th birthday.  As Elena and I came home we could see the fresh now sitting on the coastal mountains.  

 We can actually see some of the snow from our patio.  This past week has been gloomy, chilly and rainy.  The garden loves the rain and so do the mountains covered in snow.  Today we have sunny about 70 degree day...perfect for eating lunch on the patio and taking in the mountain view.  Ahh, nice and relaxing.  This is the weather I love.

 Lunch cuteness.

 Strawberries are still flowering.

 Trees are doing well.  Everything is growing leaves.  It's still hard to believe a huge mulberry tree used to dominate this backyard.  The grass, though patchy, is cool and soft to walk on.  I will miss this grass once the days become a bit warmer.  Just can't bring myself to water grass.

Cleaned out the spider webs as Elena climbed the climber.

Oh, I nearly forgot to give an update on the baby.  Yesterday marked 17 weeks....almost 4-1/2 months along.  I've also started feeling the faint flutters of baby movement.  The baby is estimated to be 5 ounces and the size of a turnip, about 5 inches from head to rump.  Tomorrow morning is my first appointment with a new set of doctors.  Soon we should be find out what we'll be having.  What do you think we are having...another girl or a boy?

Happy March!

Around here, spring has sprung.  The days have warmed up, flowers are sprouting, the garden is underway and the fruit trees we planted are doing awesome.  Of course, I'm growing too.  Here's a snap shot of all things in bloom...

 It is really hard to take a photo and capture a baby belly.  Trust me, I'm growing and definitely look pregnant now.  Well, I feel extra heavy but have been assured I have a cute baby bump.  I'm looking forward to feeling baby movement which should happen anytime in the next couple of weeks.  My belly has pushed out and has pushed up to start covering my ribs (I can only feel the sides of my ribs).

 Today starts our 16th week, yay!  The baby is estimated to be the size of an avocado, last week it was the size of an apple.  Estimated length is 4-1/2 inches and weighing about 3-1/2 ounces.

 This week I started feeling better.  The nausea is nearly gone, my energy is coming back.  It's great to start feeling a little more like myself.

 All the fruit trees we planted in January are showing growth.  Above is a golden apple.  Look at all the green growth--I'm so excited!

 This is a peach and the one I was most worried about.  It arrived with very little in the way of branches and is at least a year older than I was expecting.  Looks like this guy is going to pull through.  In the background is Elena's pool, set up and warming up.  Today we are supposed to get to 82...then tomorrow cool down a bit for the upcoming week and most likely rain.

 We have 2 nectarines, both have these beautiful pink blossoms.  I might be in love with flowering fruit trees....I think I need more ;)

 Purple flowers growing in the weeds  oops, I mean grass :)

 We're trying strawberries in pots this year to control slugs.  Last year slugs loved our strawberries.

 Seedlings are popping up in the garden...along with some grass.  We'll be in there weeding soon.

We even have a second batch of yellow roses coming in.

Welcome Spring!

Elena's First Field Trip

In honor of Dr. Seuss' birthday, today was Read Across America Day.  Elena's teachers took her class over to the SDSU campus where teachers, students and parents read to the kids.  Elena had so much fun...though she was disappointed they ONLY read 2 books.  One day, not too far in the distant future, I see my kid skipping class so she can enjoy the warm spring sun while reading on the quad.

 Patiently waiting in line to leave her school.  One of Elena's teachers told me she was so excited she followed all the rules and wouldn't let go of her hand.

 Had to be in the front row.  :)

 Isn't this adorable??

Happy birthday, Dr. Seuss!

Visit from Grandmazona and Grandpa Pat

This morning I woke up to the sweetest snuggles complete with cheek caressing, hugs and kisses.  We've been having some troubles lately, and this morning she reminded me of her tender and sweet side.  Oh, how I love this little girl!

This morning is the last morning Donna and Pat will be visiting us.  They arrived Friday afternoon and Elena has been having a blast ever since.  I, on the other hand, practically slept the entire weekend away.  This is what pregnancy and a head cold will do to you, I suppose.  While I was sleeping and working Monday, Grandma, Grandpa, Carl, Elena and the dogs went Ocean Beach Dog Beach, Mission Trails Park for a hike near our house and to the dog beach at Coronado Beach.  Carl took over my picture duties and snapped some pics at Coronado Beach.  Everyone had a great time!

Hello 2nd Trimester!

Today we welcome the beginning of the second trimester.  I can't say I feel wonderful as I still have a lingering head cold and afternoon "morning" sickness.  I also can't seem to get enough sleep but the baby is doing well and should be about as large as a good-sized lemon.  Approximately 1 1/2 ounces in weight and about 3 1/2 inches long.

6 more months to go before we meet our little Cupcake.  

Elena has changed her mind about naming the baby Elena, she'd rather name the baby Cupcake.  Cupcake Stiehl, it has a nice sound to it, doesn't it?  ;)

Early Blooms, Nectaplum

 Despite this morning's frost, the new nectaplum tree in the front yard is in bloom.  This tree is living up to its classification as an an edible ornamental.  I'm loving the pink blossoms and red leaves.  It really adds some color to the front yard.  I can't wait for this tree to grow up...it will be beautiful!

 Just a couple more shots of the blossoms.  It's hard to capture the beauty of this tree, especially at 7:30 in the morning and 32 degrees outside.  Hope you enjoy a little bit of this tree!

Short Baby Update

Today I had a check up, rather the baby had a check up.  S/he is doing great.  

We are 13 weeks 3 days with a strong heart beat and lots of wiggles.  The baby should be about the size of a medium shrimp and weighs approximately 1 ounce. 

I'm looking forward to 14 weeks, the start of the second trimester.  Hopefully I'll regain some more energy and maybe the evening sickness will subside all together.  Our next check up is in 4 weeks.  Then a few weeks after that we'll be about half way through the pregnancy...and maybe we'll find out if the baby is a boy or a girl.  :)

Have a wonderful day!

We're Growing!

We are happy to announce we are expecting baby #2 in mid-August!

 Though just finishing up the first trimester, my belly popped out early.  From the front, you can't tell I'm pregnant but catch my profile and it's hard to hide.  Currently the baby is the size of a lime or just a little bit bigger.  Elena is ecstatic about getting a sibling (or 2 if you ask her).  She has been asking me for at least the past 12 months if there was a baby growing in my belly.  Always sad when I say no.  So when we told her there was a baby growing in my belly, she sang a song "Yeah, yeah, yeah" and did a happy booty dance.  Whether the baby is a girl or boy, Elena would like the baby's name to be Elena.  If there is a girl and a boy, they can be named Elena and Ethan, according to Elena.  Now that my belly has popped out, Elena loves to compare belly sizes...she has a baby growing in her belly too; it's the size of a small red bead :)  The picture above was just taken yesterday.

 I felt crummy most of December, beginning December 2nd.  I tested positive soon after and was happy that it wasn't the flu.  Happy because we've wanted and wished for baby #2 to come along for quiet some time.  Maybe even a little shocked :)  The above picture was taken in mid-December.  Not much to see, it was too early to see baby, well to even identify if I was pregnant with a baby.

 On December 26th, I had another appointment to see if the previous ultrasound was too early or...well, let's not think of the other outcome.  On the drive to the appointment, Elena saw a double rainbow.  It was beautiful and surely a good sign sent our way, for the past few weeks had been an emotional roller coaster on top of nausea, fatigue, pregnancy complications and a belly that wanted to pooch out a little too soon.

On December 26th, I saw the baby's heart beat flutter on the screen.  I cannot describe the emotions that came along that afternoon.  The above ultrasound picture is from January 14th.  The baby is facing down, head to your left with little arms sticking out and legs curled in.  While looking at the baby with the ultrasound, the baby waved its arm and then gave us a booty dance.  Evidently, the booty dance is genetic.  In a couple of years, we'll have two kids running around the house doing their booty dances!  Can't wait!  :)

At the end of the first trimester, the nausea and fatigue are starting to get better.  I only had a food aversion for a few weeks and to Carl's disappointment it was all breakfast meat and sausage.  The smell was awful and it lingers so I would be sick all day.  It still doesn't sound good to eat but I can endure the smell without feeling sick.  So far, this pregnancy is nothing like it was when I was pregnant with Elena, except I'm tired.  With Elena I was ravenously hungry even before I knew I was pregnant, I only had a couple food cravings, no aversions.  So far with this baby I crave cheese and apples, difficult for being lactose intolerant!  Chocolate doesn't taste good, too much water makes me nauseous.  My appetite comes and goes but loving carbs and steak right now.  Sometimes I look at veggies and see them as too healthy :)  But don't worry I still eat them, even if I have to plug my nose to get them down!  Nah, it isn't that bad, I just don't enjoy them as much.

Our official estimated due date is August 16, 2013, though it has moved a little.  You can see from the early scan August 9th was the initial estimated due date.  Elena came 3 weeks early, so I guess we should expect this arrival sometime between the last week of July and the last week of August :)

I am trying to update on a regular basis...so stay tuned or subscribe to the blog to have updates delivered to your email in box.

Spring is upon us in So. Cal

 Buds are beginning to swell, soon our early blooming fruit trees will have flowers!

 This is the necta-plum tree we planted in the front yard, though I think we're going to call it our peachy-plum tree.  It will have showy pink blooms, the foliage starts as burgundy and then turns green later in the season.  I'm looking forward to eating fruit from this ornamental tree.

 A few more blossoms.

 Elena loves bubbles.  She blows them and then catches it with her wand or pops them with her toes.

Warm Wishes from Santee, CA!

 At the first sign of a warm day, Elena does not hesitate to ask for her pool.

 It was a little chilly for pool time, in my opinion.  Oh, to be a child again!!

Elena had a blast!