Welcome to the Third Trimester!! weeks 28 & 29

Since I am a little late getting out this week's blog (seriously time for a new computer...gggrrr) and I know that next week is going to be full of Holiday festivities-I've decided to double up our information. Here we go...
Week 28- Research says that our guy is anywhere between 14 1/2 inches and 16 inches long! He should be weighing in at approximately 2 1/4- 2 1/2 pounds. However, since he was 2 lbs 6 ounces at the last ultrasound--I'm pretty sure he's over the half pound mark (yikes) His blinking little eyelids are now open and covered with eyelashes! As a result of his functional oculars-he is more sensitive to drastic light changes. For instance, he may be able to tell the difference if I am in a bright room-naked bellied- as opposed to with a shirt covering or a dark room. ***Justin and I did test this out the other night with a flash light on the belly--he gave some pretty serious kicks and then we stopped cause we felt guilty blinding our child ;)*** This week, the Buddy Boy also starts getting some quality zzz's, with the REM sleep he's now getting. (dreaming in-utero!) Most importantly, his lungs are near full maturity! (insert deep SIGH of relief here!)
Week 29- This week the boy is about 15-17 inches tall and is tipping the scales at 2 1/2-3 lbs! (note: they've stopped comparing to fruit...we're talking tri-tip now! kidding) He is about 3 or so inches away from his final birth length but still has much more weight to gain (ugh...) In the next 11 weeks he may double or triple his current weight. (seriously?? no room at the inn!) This weight gain will also take an astronomical amount of my calcium to deposit into this little boy's bones--a whopping 250 milligrams a day! As he's marinating and plumping up, Jaxon will continue to practice his life skills-sucking, muscle coordination, breathing etc. And the scariest fact of the week; His head continues to grow this week to accommodate his expanding brain! I can't even comment further on this occurrence.... :0
We are looking forward to our week of family fun and seeing all of you! And if we aren't lucky enough to see you face to face between now and then...
Merry Christmas!
much love,
Justin, Robin and Jaxon

These doors are CLOSED!

We just got back from the perinatologists (one of the most atrocious places ever...) and got the good news that there is no opening here! I've gotten the go ahead from the Dr that I can go back to my life--with a strong caution to be careful and not wear myself out. I will go back to my regularly scheduled appts unless my contractions increase in either severity or frequency.
Thank you all for the prayers, love and positive thoughts you were sending in our direction--I know they made a difference!
much love,
Justin, Robin and Jaxon

baby stuff...

So I figured I'd put this whole "modified bed rest" to good use and am working on finishing up the baby registries (just in case any of you are itching to start making purchases like I am) We registered at both Babys R Us and Target-under both of our names...Generally speaking, we've added things that we've found online--but keep checking in--cause the more I'm allowed out of the house...the more I'd imagine Jaxon's wish list will grow!
The next update will be Tuesday night (aka...the DAY of the Doctors)
much love
Justin, Robin and Jax

Are you ready for this one???

Yesterday was the diagnostic ultrasound in which they take measurements of Jaxon's appendages, head and belly to better gage his growth...and boy has been growing! We walking into the office at 24 weeks 2 days and walked out of there at 27 weeks 2 days!!! That's right--our due date has been moved up to the 10th of March. Yikes!! that's less than 13 weeks away! So here is where he is at 27 weeks...

According to the ultrasound, our guy weighs 2lbs 6 ounces (a little bigger than the books average). He is about 14 1/2 inches long! He has developed a definite sleeping pattern-sleeping and waking at varying intervals. On the ultrasound I was able to see him yawning, searching for his hands, stretching and at one point he stretched his little legs up straight and wiggled his toes against his forehead!!! He is positioned head down, sunnyside up with toes either pointing down or curling up fetal style. His lungs are still immature, but are capable of functioning now with a lot of medical help. Which brings me to the next...

Let me start with--we are ok. Now for the story...on the ultrasound the tech detected some opening of the cervix (probably TMI...sorry). Because of this and other factors...they then did a physical exam and a fetal fibronectin test to determine if I was in preterm labor. I was sent to the hospital (which is quiet nice by the way-my first time there) for further monitoring. After about an 1 1/2 and 2 contractions, they let me go home with orders to return this morning. I returned to the hospital this morning for another NST (non-stress test...yeah right!) and didn't contract while I was there...yay! So I am now on modified bedrest and they have taken me off work until Tuesday when I will go Back to the hospital for yet another but hopefully the last NST and then to a perinatologist. There I will have another ultrasound to see if that expert agrees with my tech on the opening issue. So at this point we are in a waiting game till Tuesday. Best case scenario-the perinatologist doesn't see the same things and clears me back to normal life. Worse case involves bedrest and more medical interventions. I have been assured by all medical staff that Jaxon is just fine and is showing no signs that he has any idea what's going on out here.

So everyone think positive thoughts and I'm sure we'll be just fine!

here are some new Jaxon pics to enjoy---the tech kept commenting on how much he seems to love his picture being taken! Such a ham...wonder where that came from??

Much love to you all

Justin, Robin and Jaxon

22 & 23--spaghetti squash and mangos...

YAY! I am connected again! With the packing, cleaning, moving and unpacking...I haven't been motivated to check my Internet connection--but things are finally settling into Normal again and I'm back!! here's what you've missed in the past two weeks...
22-This week Jax finally resembles a (miniature) newborn baby! All of his exterior parts are intact and the the correct positions. His lips, eyelids and eyebrows are more distinct. His eyes have formed but still lack any color or pigmentation in the iris (the colored part). Tiny tooth buds are forming in his gums. Inside, his pancreas (essential for certain hormone production) is steadily developing. His body is covered with a fine hair (lanugo) and he is sporting some pretty deep wrinkles all over! These will disappear as he starts packing on the ounces. This week he measured 11 inches in length and 1 pound in weight! (about the length of a spaghetti squash)
23- Jaxon is able to feel and responds to my movements this week. Meaning he can feel me dance, walk, sway, etc. His ears and hearing are becoming increasingly keen--he is able to hear loud noises and is becoming accustomed to them (vacuum, dogs barking, my voice,). These are noises that will probably not phase him when he's on the outside because of the early exposure to them now (thank god cause we all know how much my dogs bark!) Blood vessels in the lungs are continuing to develop and mature getting Jax ready for his first breath. By the end of the week the boy will measure over 11 inches and weigh more than a pound (about as much as a large mango).
His growth in the past couple of weeks has made a huge difference in my knowledge of his activity level! I can SEE(if i can contain my giggles) him move through my clothing--which is crazy, weird and absolutely amazing!
We have an ultrasound scheduled for next Thursday. This is the measurement picture, where the doctor is most concerned about checking out his growth and development thus far. So look for new pics of our guy next week!
Much love,
Justin, Robin and Jaxon

21 weeks

During this week our Jaxon will weigh in at about three-quarters of a pound (12 ounces) and is measuring at 10 1/2 inches. (or a large carrot) So while there wasn't much of a length gain...he added on about an ounce and a half in weight. His eyelids and eyebrows are now present on the boy's face, though the eyelids will remain shut for some time. He continues to practice swallowing amniotic fluid and studies suggest that he is able to taste the differences in amniotic fluid depending on what I eat (sweeter, spicy, etc.) I guess that means I really should be eating all those veggies they've been suggesting! ;)
The cute little tickles that first introduced Jaxon and I have turned in to all out Tai Bo thanks to the neurons making a complete connection between his brain and his muscles. I am also beginning to see a definite sleep/awake pattern. He is generally active around 6:15 am (right before my alarm goes off) 10:00am, and various time during the afternoon. He is by far the most active between 8-9pm. This is when we can not only feel the acrobatics--but SEE them. Justin has been able to feel Jaxon kicking for about a week now...which means its only a matter of time and the opportunity for all of you to get your first kicks too!
We hope all is well with everyone! We can't wait to see you for the Holidays!!
much love,
Justin, Robin and Jax

The 50 yard line....

This week marks the midway point in this amazing pregnancy. We've made it safely through 20 weeks and have 20 to go! I can't believe how fast time is moving--and how long it seems we have left to go.
Another growth spurt happens this week--Mr. Jax has gained about 2 ounces...bringing him to a total of 10 1/2. He has also gained in length (about as long as a large banana)- 10 inches! Okay--thats a little misleading--at week 20 the fetus begins to be measured from head to toe since he's now big enough and can stretch out enough for full measurement. (he's about 6 1/2 head to bum)
He is still practicing swallowing and various gross motor movements (hitting, kicking, squirming...etc.) Also new and fun this week...his body is producing meconium-a black, stick by-product of his digestive system. This tar like substance will continue to accumulate in his bowels until he's delivered. However, some babies will "release" in the womb--which can lead to respiratory problems after delivery. So we're crossing our fingers (and legs) thats there's no poo-ing in this uterus! =)
Over the next few weeks and months Jaxon's main job will be to grow in both length and weight with the majority of major development under his belt.
much love,
Justin, Robin and Jaxon

Talk to me!

Some research suggests that this week our baby boy (still makes me smile to say it...) has developed enough to hear sounds occurring outside his warm little home! He is now sensitive to light, sound and touch (ok so its closer to poking but whatever). During this time the brain is still busy at work designating specialized areas specifically for touch, taste, smell, sound and vision. Jaxon is know weighing in at a whopping 8 1/2 ounces and about 6 inches long head to bottom. (Next week he'll be measured from head to toe since he's grown big enough to stretch out a little.) That would make him about the size of a large mango or heirloom tomato. Jax's arms and legs are now proportionate to each other and the rest of his body--although they will continue to be on the short side until he's ready to start being mobile. His skin is also coated in a greasy, cheese-like coating (vernix caseosa) to protect him from becoming pruned and pickled by the amniotic fluid. Depending on when he decides to arrive he may still be covered in it (early arrival) or the coating may be completely gone (late sleeper). Underneath that grease...hair is beginning to sprout on his little head.
On the parent front...things are moving--quickly. Justin has just started his training for Arson Investigator. We will be closing escrow on our house in the next week or so. And I am deep into the teacher mode. My belly is growing daily (it seems) and am still feeling well.
till next week...
much love,
Justin, Robin and Jaxon

BABY BOY!!

The most exciting thing that has happened in the past week is knowing that I no longer have to use gender neutral terms and pronouns and can begin using boy words!! The ultrasound was an indescribable experience (one of many thus far and yet to come) but I'll give it a shot. With us for the appointment were my Mom and Sally, my Dad, Beth, Bob and Kelly. Bob-o and Kim were with us via speaker phone! The room was warm and inviting and looked more like a tv room than an office. There were comfy looking over stuffed couches, big tv screens and a projection screen so everyone got a good look at the ultrasound. Seeing the BOY again was nothing less than amazing. With the 3D you could see his facial features, arms, fingers, legs, umbilical cord (ok you get the point...). With the 4D we were able to see him in motion--stretching his neck, throwing an arm over his head, moving his legs, opening his mouth and smiling! It didn't take long for the technician to give us the verdict--BOY...all boy. Against all of my worrying--the little guy was very willing to cooperate and show us his stuff. The rest of the time (25 min or so) was spent watching him. Thankfully we have it all on DVD (which we've made copies to share)! We were also given a dozen pictures and have copies as well.

Time for the serious stuff....

Week 18- This week buddy boy is about 5 1/2 inches long-the length of a bell pepper- and weighs about 7 ounces. So while there wasn't much growth in length, we've definitely packed on the ounces. He continues to flex his arms and legs (which I can feel now!) and his ears are finally done moving. He'll also begin to practice yawning and may even hiccup now and then. A thin layer of myelin (a protective coating) begins to form around his nerves and will continue to do so until a year after he's born. Finger prints have also fully formed by the end of this week.

This pregnancy continues to be a wonderful experience! Thank you for being so involved and ready to share it with us!

much love,

Justin, Robin and Jaxon =)

Gimme a Hand....week 17

Take a look at your palm--the baby is big enough to be cradled in your hand, about 5 inches from head to rump and 5 ounces in weight. This week the baby's skeleton is changing from soft cartilage to bone...sounds much heavier and quiet frankly--more painful--for me! The umbilical cord is also growing stronger and thicker...this is the lifeline to the placenta, which provides all the the nutrients for the baby. All joints are movable and sweat glands are beginning to develop (cause I guess peeing inside of me isn't enough?? gross) The baby also practices sucking and swallowing. And the heart is now regulated by the brain--anywhere between 140-150 beats per minute (which is about 2 our heart rate).
The end of this week marks the fourth complete month of pregnancy...in 2 weeks we'll be half way home!
Friday is G-Day(gender day)!!! Keep your phones close!
much love,
Justin and Robin

Week 16

This week starts the beginning of a serious growth spurt. Over the next few weeks, the baby will double in weight and and add inches to its length!! (this could explain why I seem to be eternally hungry!) And continuing our tour through the produce section--this week we are on to avocados--about 4 1/2 inches bum to nugget and weighs in at about 3 1/2 inches. The legs are much more developed, back muscles are strenghtening which causes the head to move into a more erect position than previously. The eyes and ears are also continuing their migration to their final resting spots. Toenails, eyebrows, eyelashes and hair pattern on the scalp (no hair there yet) have all begun to make their apperances this week. The circulatory system is busy this week as well...the baby's heart pumps the equivalent of 25 quarts of blood a day.
Next week, Justin and I will be going to a 4D ultrasound to finally (fingers crossed--but baby legs wide open) find out just who's inside of me. We're both extremely excited and because of this the days seem to be taking their sweet time. Expect a phone call next Friday evening with news!!
much love,
Justin and Robin

weeks 14 & 15

So sorry that I missed you all last week...things got crazy, I got lazy and you know how that goes! So let's catch up....
Week 14 (last week)- The babies facial muscles begin to get their workout as the baby is now able to grimace, squint, and suck the thumb! The baby is practicing grasping things by making grasping movements. Finger nails and hair growth all over the body (lanugo) also began this week. The kidneys are fully functional and "relieve" themselves into the amniotic fluid-this will continue for the remainder of the pregnancy (yay?) The liver began making bile and the spleen started helping in the production of red blood cells. By the end of the 14th week the baby measures 3 1/2 inches, and about 1 1/2 ounces...or about the size of a lemon (mmm...lemonade). And even though I Still can't feel it...the baby spends more hours awake and moving, kicking, tai bo-ing than sleeping.
Week 15(this week)-This week is marked by some serious growth---we've gained an inch in length and an ounce in weight...about the size of an apple! To help the air sacs develop in the lungs, the baby spends time "breathing" in amniotic fluid through the nose and upper respiratory tract. The legs are growing longer than the arms (keep on growing!! you're gonna need the height). All limbs and joints are fully movable and are getting much use. And while the eyelids are still fused shut, the baby can sense light. More excitedly...after this week, the baby's gender can now be determined, although not easily. It will depend on the quality of the machine, the clarity of the picture (it can differ between patients--something to do with thickness??) and the cooperation of the baby (it needs to be willing to show the goods!!)
And on that front--Justin and I are planning on getting a 4D ultrasound as soon as the place can fit us in. We will (very obviously) let you know as SOON as we are able to start shopping with a purpose!!
much love,
Justin and Robin

1/3 down...2/3 to go!

Here we are at week 13, which marks the end of the first trimester. As of this weekend, I am officially in my 2nd trimester! As well as being a good time marker, the second trimester also has a much lower risk of miscarriage--so I can breathe a little easier--but for long the baby (and uterus, which is the size of a grapefruit) are starting the migration up my torso and will eventually press against my inner organs & lungs, in turn.
For the baby-its own distinct fingerprints are now present on the fingers. The veins and organs are visible through its still transparent skin. Vocal cord development starts this week, too. If it is a girl, she already has more than 2 million eggs in her ovaries! On the boy side...he's been producing testosterone for about 3 weeks now! No wonder I've been soo tired this week...thats a lot of work! We will be able to find out the gender at my 18 week appt (if Justin can wait that long) which will be scheduled for the end of October. This week the size (measured from nugget to booty) is about the size of a peach or medium sized shrimp (about 3 inches) and weighs in at about a full ounce!
I finally broke down last night and bought my first pair of maternity pants...I resisted at first, but the belly band isn't working too well and I'm tired of sucking it in unsuccessfully. Anyhow, I caved and I LOVE them...mostly cause they are comfy and I can breathe again!
We'll keep you posted...next week is our 14 week check up!
much love,
Justin and Robin

LIMES anyone?

This week is a big week for the little _______ (insert your gender of choice) inside! Officially, it is about 2 inches long and about the size of a Lime. Reflexes begin to develop during week 12. Fingers begin to open and close, toes curl, eye muscles clench and the mouth starts making sucking movements! (already a big eater like its parents ;) ) The coolest thing is that if I prod my stomach--the baby will squirm in response-even though I still can't feel it! I love to do this...Justin gets mad and tells me to quit squishing his kid, which probably makes it more fun to do! lol
The intestines have grown extremely fast and protrude into the umbilical cord, but are beginning their decent into the abdominal cavity. The kidneys have started to produce and excrete urine into the bladder. Yes...its peeing in me! Way more gross than being peed ON. Nerves continue to grow and the eyes have moved into their proper place.
On the momma front...I've been battling allergies and a cold this past week. Not an easy feat to accomplish with OUT drugs and while living in the valley. To battle back, I've been sleeping-alot, drinking-alot and eating--even more than a lot! Thanks to a new humidifier...easy breathing is in my future!
much love,
Justin and Robin

203 Days to GO!! or 11 weeks along

So in keeping with the fruit theme, the baby is now about the size of a fig (about an inch and a half long). The hands are fully formed and will start opening and closing to form a fist! Tooth buds are also beginning to appear (OUCH) and some of the bones are starting to harden. As I shared and saw last week, its (can't wait to use a gender specific pronoun) moving all over the place! Kicking, stretching and even hiccuping!
I've finally come to the realization that I am not a chicken fan, like many pregger women before me. For some reason, it sounds great-looks and tastes awful! Poor Justin made me a very healthy dinner--and all I could stomach was the salad and potato...no chicken for this lady. Luckily, that seems to be the only protein I'm not a fan of.
Hope you are all well!
much love,
Justin and Robin

The lesson learned

So...here is the lesson that I have learned about OB's and their practice--when it comes to determining how far along a person is...They have NO idea. I mean you really can't blame them, it is a literal shot in the dark...but its a source of frustration for me!

That being said...the new due date is March 30th. Which would put us at 10 1/2 weeks and counting. At the Dr, we were able to get another ultrasound! It was amazing to see the huge changes that have happened in only 4 weeks! I could see arms and legs both failing wildly. The little bugger was hopping up and down my uterus--and I still can't feel a thing, which seems to be lucky cause this is one active baby! The ultrasound picture shows the baby's profile on the right, chest center and arms and legs very faintly. Sorry its sooo blurry...you'll just have to see it in person!

Developmentally here's whats been happening~This week (or at some point in time) the baby is the size of a kumquat (random fruit, I know) is a little longer than 1 in-bottom to crown and weighs in at a whopping 1/4 ounce! It is now officially a Fetus-meaning that the most critical development is over and know the growth spurts really begin. The baby is kicking and swallowing up a storm. Tiny fingernails and fuzzy hair are developing (since I'm LOVING spicy food...its probably alotta hair!) The arms and legs can bend, the spinal cord is visible as are the nerve endings that are spidering out from the cord. It still has a sizable bulge at the forehead (which is slowly fading) to aid in brain growth. Again it could be genetic---have you seen the size of my husbands head?? ;) kidding.

Over the next few weeks, the baby will again double in size! We have another appointment on the 30th of September, which will be week 14. A gender peek ultrasound can be done anytime after that appt (off site) Or another will be done at the 18 week check which would be the last week in October--so you better be putting in your votes and getting the bets going!

much love,

Justin and Robin

9 weeks and counting

This week the baby finally makes it to a full Inch in length! Yay! It is about the size of a grape. All essential body parts are accounted for and the Oh-so-fashionable tail is gone. The heart is dividing into the four chambers and the teeth are forming as well. The ears, nose, eyes and mouth are all more distinct. The gender organs are developed but are still too small for a gender determination. (a few more weeks on that one) All of the basic physiology is in place and its time for the baby to start gaining weight. Next week marks the end of the embryonic stage and moves us into the fetal stage! Only a three more weeks left in the first trimester. (give or take)
I've been having some serious back pain and decided to see a Chiropractor yesterday. His plan sounds great and includes PT to get my back and joints supported for all that weight I'm bound to find. I also had some blood work done today to check all of my vitamin and hormone levels. Thankfully, the headaches are pretty much gone and the morning sickness hasn't shown up (knock on wood!)
We'll give you more information as it comes in!
much love,
Justin and Robin

First Dr Appt

Yesterday was our first official appointment with our Mid-wife. After a lot of paper work and a lot more waiting-we finally were lead to the back. Our mid-wife (CNM) was really nice. I was pleased to see that she wasn't a complete tie-dye wearing hippie. She was nice, well informed and was very relaxed about the whole process (not at all fussy). She reminded me to use common sense and that pregnancy isn't a disease but a condition to be mindful of. Renee also scheduled us for an ultrasound! So we got to see the baby (or at least the out line of it) and saw/heard it's heart beat for the first time! COMPLETELY AMAZING! Justin was couning the heartbeat--141 bpm--very strong.

After the physical exam, we were given a March 18th due date. But after the ultrasound they told us March 30. But in looking at the heartbeat and reading information that the ultrasounds generally measure small...we are still thinking my initial dates were right. So splitting the difference would mean that the baby is right about 7 1/2- 8 weeks along...which makes it a Jamaican Baby =)

***here are the ultrasound pics--I know they are hard to read...but you get the point!

much love,

Justin and Robin

7 weeks and counting

So here's what happening with the baby so far (this is just an approximate guess...we'll find out how old it really is next week)
The baby is about 1/3-1/2 of an inch--and between the size of a lentil bean or blueberry! Arm and leg development continues (arms faster than legs) but still no toes or fingers. The brain is growing steadily along with the lenses of the eyes, nostrils, pancreas and bronchi. The majority of the major organs have been developed.
In week 6 the heart started beating and pumping blood, the umbilical cord was formed, as was the ears, eyes and mouth opening!
Everyday something new is happening--very exciting!
much love,
Justin and Robin

The Big Shock

As you all know by now--we are indeed expecting a baby Simmons. It hasn't been quite a week yet since the discovery and it already seems like a life time ago. Here is a run down of the Big Shock!
I had a sneaking suspicion during the week that Justin and I were in San Jose for the Firefighter Olympics (GO BOOZERS!). We finally got home Friday night and crashed. Justin got up for work early, while I was grateful for a day to sleep in! Around 7:30 my bladder was screaming for mercy--and I decided now was as good a time as any to pee on the stick (not an easy task). I was figuring that I'd do my business and crawl back for some uninterrupted Zzz's. I wasn't expecting that Pink line to shoot up so violently and yet there is was. I was in complete shock! I crawled back in bed, watched (more like starred at) Other Boelyn Girl and began processing. Luckily Beth called 4 hours later and I blurted it to her. Her excitement allowed me to get excited--now I had to tell Justin.
I was sooo nervous about this part.(i know right?) We had just had some serious and lengthy discussions about waiting for at least a year, we aren't ready, let's get things in order, have some fun, take some trips....I finally called him at work-blurted it rather uneventfully and waited for his response. It was of course excitement and positive words.
Our first Dr appointment is Thursday August 7th. We'll get to hear the heart beat and find out exactly how far along this thing is (we're thinking about 8 weeks by then). We'll keep you all posted with details! Thanks for sharing this with us...
Much love-Justin and Robin