A Peek at the Princess

As I shared earlier today, I was fortunate enough to get what may well be the final look at our darlin' daughter this morning. My ultrasound appointment was at 8:15, so while the brothers were eating breakfast I announced that I was off to see Sissy and left them in Aunt Katy's capable hands.

My goal was to get back home by 9:30 so that I could get Katy and Patrick off to the airport to catch their flight back to Oklahoma, so I was a little nervous when the clock showed 8:30 and I still hadn't been called. Luckily, it was only a matter of minutes before I was back in the room, getting that special gel squirted on my belly. 

The tech set right to work getting the measurements to ensure that Baby was the size she needed to be, despite Mommy's numbers being off. Throughout the entire ultrasound, she kept commenting on what a wiggle worm I had; the girl was going a little crazy and would not stay still, even for a second, which made measuring her belly and head difficult. Eventually she slowed down enough to nab some good shots, both of which showed her measuring right around 33 weeks. The tech also got her femur length, at which point she asked me how tall I was, as well as how tall my husband was. She predicted that Baby was not going to be very tall based upon these numbers (which wouldn't be a surprise, considering Kaiser and Porter have never been off-the-charts in length). 

I can't forget to share that, not long into the exam, the kiddo decided to give us a crystal-clear view of her nether regions -- the kind of view that erased any and all doubt that may have been lingering in Mommy's mind about her possession of two X chromosomes. The tech said (and I quote): "Ultrasounds are never a 100% guarantee, but it doesn't get any clearer than that. If you came back in September and told me you'd given birth to a boy, there's no way I would believe you!" So, it sounds like we can rest assured that Sister is, indeed, a sister. :)

What else am I forgetting? Baby Girl is currently head down, and her face was all smashed up against my placenta, making good mug shots difficult to nab. She kept turning her head back and forth, and at one point we were able to see her give a really big yawn, which was cute. 

So...would you like to see a couple of pictures of the Lil Miss? I really wish we'd been able to get better ones (even had my fingers crossed for some 3-D images), but alas, she wasn't too cooperative. Guess I'll take what I can get!

 Wondering where she's hiding those kissable lips...?

Turning her face away while giving us a little wave. Such a tease.

Once we were finished, I was reassured that there seemed to be absolutely no concern about her size -- she was measuring in the 52nd percentile, and her current weight was estimated at 4 pounds 10 ounces. (However, I must say that I am seriously skeptical of these numbers; based upon ultrasounds late in my previous pregnancies, both of my boys were projected to be way heavier than they actually turned out to be.) Regardless of the exact number that shows up on the scale in 7 weeks, I'm glad to hear (and see) that all is well with our sweet tiny, and that she's happy and healthy and cookin' away.

Less than 50 days until we get to call this guessing game quits and finally meet our gal face-to-face! Can you believe it???

The Monday Bump: Week 33

Pregnancy Highlights

How Far Along: 33 weeks

Size of Baby: Over 17 inches long and a little over 4 pounds -- roughly the weight of a pineapple.

Total Weight Gain/Loss: 11+ pounds

Maternity Clothes: Let's just assume that the answer to this from here on out is yes. (I haven't had to go out to purchase anything new, though -- still getting by with what I already have.) Also, I donned my preggo swim tank once again on our quick trip to the beach yesterday (more on that in an upcoming post!).

Gender: This morning I received solid confirmation that our babe is, in fact, ALL GIRL. :)

Movement: Lately I have told a couple of people that it's finally starting to feel like I have a real person inside my stomach. That may sound strange, as I've been feeling strong kicks and punches for a while now, but it's reached the point where some of her sudden shifts, stretches, and rolls really make me gasp and stop me in my tracks!

Food Cravings: I was jonesin' for some Mexican food, so I planned to make up our favorite chicken/cream cheese/green chile enchiladas + homemade salsa for dinner with my sister- and brother-in-law when they got into town on Friday night. Hopefully they enjoyed the meal as much as Brett and I did!

What I Miss: Being able to hop up and down from a sitting or squatting position without tremendous effort/awkwardness/assistance from others.

Sleep: Hasn't been too bad this week. Still starting my mornings with a dose of caffeine, courtesy of the Keurig, which continues to put a smile on my mug.

Symptoms: Lots of lengthy stretches of Braxton Hicks, occasionally throbbing varicose veins, periodic shortness of breath. Oh, and if I even think about pointing my toes, I get a cramp in my foot. 

Best Moment This Week: Without a doubt, seeing the chica at my ultrasound this morning! Our little mover and shaker is doin' just fine and dandy. As soon as I can get the images scanned, I promise to do a short update on how that went. 

What I Am Looking Forward To: We had so much fun hosting family last weekend, and I'm excited to say we have another guest coming to the Burgh to hang with us this weekend! Can't wait to see Auntie Cindy, who's driving in from York on Friday. I know she is anxiously awaiting playtime with her two favorite great-nephews (and talking more about the upcoming arrival of her great-niece)!

Wedding Wednesday

So, I was going to attempt to do a "Wordless Wednesday" post...but, as I've mentioned before, I'm not so good at the whole "no words" thang. I am a sucker for alliteration, though; hence the alternate "WW" title.

Earlier today, I emailed my beautiful sister-in-law to ask if, when she had a minute, she could send me one of the professional photos of Kaiser from their wedding. (I'm attempting to update some of the pics around our house, and I knew that there was one in particular that was begging to be put in a 5x7 frame.) Amanda was on the ball, and it wasn't long before I received her reply, with the image I requested attached:

Say it with me now: "Awwww..."

Not only that, but she followed up with several other emails containing pictures of our lil family from their wedding festivities. I loved looking through them and reliving that memorable day. And of course, I wouldn't deny you the privilege of reliving it, too -- via collages and captions. :)

The groom couldn't have asked for a better best man.

Fulfilling his ring bearer duties.

Porter getting some attention from Cousin Connor and Uncle Justin.

I'm quite convinced it's impossible to get a large group family pic where everyone looks normal. 

Photo booth fun at the reception.

Tearin' up the dance floor after our boys had left for bed.

My husband giving the newlyweds the send-off they deserve.

(In Brett's words: "For Justin and Amanda. For freedom.")

We will never forget Cinco de Mayo, 2012!

His Daddy Made Me Do It

I know I'm going to catch some MAJOR grief from my fellow OSU alums for this, but it's too cute not to share, so here goes...

In my defense, the Bralys strive to be a house UNITED instead of a house DIVIDED. And y'all, as long as we're living 1000+ miles from home, I'll take whatever Oklahoma I can get!

(For the record, the next phrases Porter will be learning are "Go Pokes!" and "Ride 'em Cowboys!" -- otherwise, Pops is threatening to rewrite his will.) ;)

The Monday Bump: Week 32

Pregnancy Highlights

How Far Along: 32 weeks

Size of Baby: About 16 3/4 inches long and 3 3/4 pounds -- roughly the weight of a large jicama (a food I've never had the pleasure of eating).

Total Weight Gain/Loss: 11 pounds

Maternity Clothes: You betcha. A couple days of milder temps this week even allowed me to bust out my lightweight, super comfy maternity pants; kinda wish I could sport them every day for the next 8 weeks!

Gender: Girly girl.

Movement: Still going strong. I am starting to feel her limbs poking out, especially on the sides of my belly, much more distinctly. Although, I'm not at all sure what's what.

Food Cravings: Really nothing this week. Definitely reaching that "there's not nearly enough room in my squished stomach" stage. 

What I Miss: Being able to do really basic things (e.g. walk up a small flight of steps, blow dry my hair, carry on a conversation) without feeling short of breath. I'm surprised at how easily and unexpectedly I feel winded!

Sleep: A little better, but still lacking. Fortunately, my newest obsession has provided some much-needed support after those not-so-good nights. 

Symptoms: Braxton Hicks contractions have noticeably increased this week, and of course, each time my midsection tightens up, I feel the urge to pee pronto. So, this goes hand-in-hand with more frequent trips to the restroom.

Best Moment This Week: Brett got up into the attic and brought down a couple of tubs of Kaiser's and Porter's baby clothes for me to go through; I was pleasantly surprised that there were several unisex (or at least, not too boy) pieces that I think I'll feel comfortable dressing Sissy in. I got them washed, folded, and put into her drawers and closet, which are continuing to fill up. I also did some shopping on Etsy and made my first purchase of simple, not over-the-top hair accessories -- five interchangeable headbands and four clip-on flowers, all in pretty neutral colors. They are supposed to ship today or tomorrow, and I can't wait to see them!

What I Am Looking Forward To: I wasn't too terribly shocked to learn at my OB appointment this morning that I'm measuring small; despite the fact that this is completely consistent with both my previous pregnancies (apparently Braly babies are quite skilled at tucking themselves up tight in Mommy's body), my doctor is obligated to order another ultrasound to make sure our growth is on track. Scheduling around Brett's work hours is nearly impossible, but I was able to book it for early next Monday morning, when Aunt Katy, Uncle Patrick, and Uncle Chris will still be here and can stay home with the boys. Not only am I excited about their visit and thankful they can help me out, but I can't wait to take another peek at our darling daughter! So anxious to see what she's looking like these days...

Wrapping Up Our Weekend

Kaiser, Porter, and I have been fortunate this weekend to have a hubby/daddy completely free from call! (YAY for {finally} being a chief!) The four of us did our best to take advantage of the time we had together as a family both Saturday and Sunday. 

Yesterday we had a makeup music session scheduled at 9:30, so of course we asked Daddy to tag along. :) This was his second time to experience class with us, and the boys were tickled to have him there. (There were even some near-disputes about who would get to sit in his lap.) We'd brought along our swim suits, towels, and toys in the hopes that the weather would cooperate and allow us to go to the pool afterward; however, it was far too overcast, and even a bit chilly, for that. Instead, we opted to take a trip to the Carnegie Science Center. When we went with YaYa last month, I knew Brett would love to see the guitar exhibit currently on display. Since it is on the first floor, we hit that up immediately upon our arrival. 

Strummin' the world's largest guitar (and a regular-sized one, too).

Testing out the sounds different types of wood make.

All of my guys took a turn (or twenty) standing in front of a strobe light to create a "rock star" shadow on the white wall behind them.

Not quite sure Kaiser really knows what it means to rock...

Daddy's got the idea.

Apparently the lights of fame prove too bright for Porter.

Soon we'd had enough of music and, per Kaiser's request insistent begging, were ready to move on to the ball factory in the Exploration Station on the top floor. (Would you believe that we made it out of there yesterday without stopping to see the basketball-playing robot? That, my friends, is unprecedented!) 

Working together to keep those balls movin'.

While we were up there, we also did some block-building, some excavating, some train-gazing, and some tooth-brushing.

"Hey, gimme back my block, Lady!"

Trying his darndest to manipulate that difficult machine.

Watching the "too-too-wane" go by.

Dental hygiene is of the utmost importance.

Soon Mommy was asking what time it was; she and Baby Sister were getting hungry! We went downstairs to grab a table outside and enjoyed our lunch overlooking the river. While I went back in to throw away our trash and use the restroom, the boys strolled down to check out a sculpture in front of Heinz Field.

Kaiser declared that it was a "stoplight for the boats".

Porter used it to play peek-a-boo.

Before returning home, Kaiser and I thought we'd show Daddy and Porter the USS Requin, since they'd never before had the opportunity to walk through it. 

Making our way down below.

Impressed he made it through all of the doorways without tripping.

Pretending to play checkers in the sub's dining room.

By the time we reached the final room, this dude was ready for naptime.

This morning Brett was finished rounding at the hospital and home by a little after 7:00, so he was able to join us for early service at church. After the fun we had last weekend at Bach Beethoven and Brunch in Mellon Park, we decided to return for the second Sunday in a row. This time, since it wasn't a last-minute decision, I had packed lunches for us, which we dug into right away. After the boys' tummies were full,  Daddy gave Kaiser a little lesson in frisbee-throwing. 

We're working on technique...

Watching some bigger kids play catch with velcro mitts.

We camped out under the same tree that we had last week, and of course brought along our trucks so that we could be prepared for construction, should the need arise.

These two really know how to put their heads together.

Wouldn't give Mommy a full-on smile, no matter how hard I tried.

 Not sure how much longer the belly will allow for this kind of play...

Intently explaining that he was picking "seeds for the birds to eat".

 My husband secretly thinks he's Spiderman.

Quick, grab the baby and run! 

Tuckered-out tot hitching a ride to the car.

We have much-loved family members coming to stay with us during the next two weeks, so I'm glad we were able to enjoy these low-key couple of days before the excitement of their visits. It's weird to think that our remaining weekends as a family of four are dwindling away -- but also so exciting, because that means we're getting closer and closer to meeting our precious baby love!

My Early Push Present

So, I'm sure the other mommas out there in Blogland have heard of the term "push present". Perhaps you've even been the recipient of one -- or more -- from your handsome hubbies. For one reason or another, I failed to cash in on this tradition the first two times around. (A while back, while chatting with friends who were sharing about their push presents, I joked that I was saving up for a HUGE gift when Baby #3 came along!) :) Kidding aside -- though a necklace, earrings, and whatnot are lovely and all, I'm not a big jewelry gal, and truly didn't have any expectation of being given something fancy-schmancy upon birthing our babes. 

A few months ago, though, I started dropping not-so-subtle hints to Brett about something that I'd really loooove to have, which might qualify as a push present. Now, I'm sure my generous man would have been more than happy to go out and drop far too much money on something gorgeous, but totally unnecessary, especially given our current season; however, his wife tends to be a bit more -- How shall I say it? -- practical. I took an honest look at my everyday life as a mommy of two, as well the changes I anticipate will occur when, in just over 8 weeks, two kiddos become three. Let me just cut to the chase: I. AM. WIPED. And I know that won't be changing anytime soon. (Please know that I'm not in any way trying to complain; just stating fact.) I'd love to tell you that I am strong enough to completely cut out caffeine from my diet during pregnancy, but that just ain't gonna happen. And so, it may come as no surprise that my requested reward for all the child-bearing I've done these past four years was this beauty:

Clearly it's taken a while for me to jump on board, but I am now the proud mother owner of a Keurig. Color me happy, Y'all. I didn't expect to receive my push present until much closer to D-Day, so I was super surprised that Brett jumped on top of his gift-giving role and had it ordered and delivered last week. Thus far, this fantastic appliance is making my pick-me-up dreams come true -- I can quickly brew a single cup of delicious coffee, with no need to worry about washing and drying a pot afterwards (which had definitely been a huge deterrent for me when it came to making and enjoying this morning beverage). In the time that I've had my Keurig, I've awoken each day excited to pop that magical little K-cup in, press a button, and receive a piping hot mug of coffee in return. At this point, I've had no problem limiting myself to one cup a day; once Lil Miss comes along and nighttime feedings become a reality, there's no promising I won't indulge in at least a couple. Because, let's be real -- those first few months, it's all about survival.

As you can see, though it may not be the shiny bauble most girls dream of, I'm perfectly pleased with my not-so-traditional, but very useful, push present. Many thanks to my hubby for making his tired babymama's dreams come true. He's a keeper, for sure.

The Monday Bump: Week 31

Pregnancy Highlights

How Far Along: 31 weeks

Size of Baby: Over 16 inches long and 3.3 pounds -- about the weight of four navel oranges.

Total Weight Gain/Loss: 10+ pounds

Maternity Clothes: Same combo of maternity + loose-fitting regular clothes. I also sported a maternity swimsuit (kindly lent to me by Jen) for the first time during our family outing to the pool the other evening.

Gender: Still a girl, as far as we know. :)

Movement: Keeping me on my toes with all of her movin' and shakin'. Whenever I comment upon her kicks, punches, and rolls, Kaiser always says, "Sissy's sayin, 'Let me outta here!' "

Food Cravings: Nothing really stands this week. On Thursday night, I was hyper-emotional and, after putting the boys to bed, immediately felt compelled to rush down the road for a chocolate chip cookie dough blast. I was, admittedly, eating my feelings -- and regretted it afterwards.

What I Miss: Feeling like myself. (See below.)

Sleep: No bueno, no bueno. Between leg cramps, random wake-up calls when a certain 3-year-old has an accident in his bed, and general pregnancy insomnia, I have not slept well at all. My worst night was one where I slept from 11:30-2:30, when I woke up to use the bathroom and wasn't ever able to get back to bed after that. My sleep deprivation has definitely taken its toll, and I have been far from the wife and mother that my guys deserve -- moody, impatient, sensitive, kind of a train wreck. Hopefully, with more rest, I can calm the crazy and get back to myself this week!

Symptoms: I sound so boring, but again nothing new. Mild discomfort/pain in the back of my legs from these dern varicose veins. And feeling increasingly more stretched/squished in the ole midsection.

Best Moment This Week: Last night was by no means without its challenges, but I am so glad that we took the plunge and moved the boys into the same room. We still have a long way to go, but I am confident that eventually Porter will realize Mommy means business about staying in his big boy bed! Baby steps, baby steps...

What I Am Looking Forward To: During the two months left before Baby Girl joins our family, we're anxiously awaiting visits from several loved ones -- Brett's sister, Katy, her hubby, Patrick, and Brett's brother, Chris, at the end of July, my stepdad's sister, Cindy, at the beginning of August, and my bff, Laura, and her daughter, Emma O, at the end of August. Should make for a fun rest of the summer and make the remaining time fly even more quickly!

Life Lately

Before we jump headfirst into the coming week, I thought I'd quickly catch up on what the Bralys have been up to the past few days. In the interest of time, I'm going to (attempt to) keep wordy explanations to a minimum and let the pictures do the talking. Wish me luck... :)

Thursday evening Daddy finished up with work at a decent hour, so we decided to head to our township pool for about an hour and a half of family swim time.

Lovin' life in the baby pool.

A little uncertain in the adult pool.

My guys.

Back to the baby pool, and all is well with the world.

"So, does this count as my shower for the day?"

"I'm in the middle of something really important here, Mom."

Takin' a load off before we hit the road home.

Friday night we were invited to a going-away party for the Thorpes, who are packing up and moving west to Vegas this coming Wednesday. We are so thankful for Steve and Elizabeth; they are some of the first friends we made here in Pittsburgh and were actually the ones who invited us to North Way. We anxiously await hearing about the awesome ways God blesses their growing family (Elizabeth is pregnant with their first baby, due in January!) as they set out on this new adventure.

The Thorpes and the Madigans.

I'm pretty convinced our firstborn has a bigtime crush on Miss Kacia.

In the presence of some pretty fantastic females.

Harlow tickling lil Will.

These two looooouvre each other! Clearly.

Kicked back and relaxin' while he chats with Miss Allison.

The former + current ortho administrative chiefs say goodbye.

Saturday Daddy was on call and working, plus it was not pretty outside, so the boys and I bummed around all day. We did have an ortho party to go to that night; fortunately, Brett was able to make it home to tag along with us. We had to wake Kaiser and Porter from their naps around 5:00, and before leaving the house we FaceTimed with the Braly family at Cousin Kinsey's birthday party.

 Saying hi to Jefe, YaYa, Aunt K, Uncle P, and of course the B-Day Girl.

I barely pulled out my camera while we were over at the Leckies' cookout, as Brett and I were too busy feeding our children's faces (and our own) amidst visiting with some of the other residents and their wives and girlfriends. The boys had a great time just wandering around (and perhaps begging food off of people, here and there). At one point, they were inside and spotted an old rocking horse in the corner; Mr. Steve suggested that they hop right on! 

 Kaiser opted out of wearing the cowboy hat that was offered to him.

Ride 'em, Cowboy!

Sunday morning Brett met us down in Oakland at church. (He rallied after being called in at 11:15 and operating all night -- I really don't know how he does it!) Afterwards, we decided to swing by Jimmy John's to pick up sandwiches and drove to nearby Mellon Park for Bach Beethoven and Brunch. I can't believe the last time we took advantage of this free weekly event was over two years ago! After the fun we had picnicking, playing, and listening to Cello Fury, I'm seriously thinking this should be on our Sunday afternoon to-do list until the end of the summer.

Enjoying his ham and cheese sammich.

 Porter removed his meat and cheese and dined on bread, instead. Sigh.

 That Daddy's a funny guy.

 This never gets old.

Love how he makes sure to hold onto that bread, no matter what.

We ran into friends of friends, who also have truck-loving little boys.

 Showing us his borrowed bulldozer.

 Hard at work on the construction site.

A few minutes of tree-climbing before we left to go home.

Tonight was a low key, hang-around-the-house night for our familia.

Porter worked on a few computer projects.

Kaiser and Daddy built a special tent/cave.

"No parents allowed!"

Oh, and I can't forget to mention, THIS HAPPENED:

That's right, Folks -- Operation "Share a Room/Sleep in a Big Boy Bed" commenced TONIGHT! Stay tuned for a separate post with pictures and an update, most likely in the next couple of days. Prayers appreciated for a successful transition...