First Week on Bedrest

Yesterday, June 25th is officially two months away from Baby Cunigan's due date. I have also officially made it through my first week of bedrest. With two months left, I feel like we have such a short time to get everything together for Baby Cunigan's arrival but then I feel like I have forever left on bedrest.

Bedrest definitely has it ups and downs. Here is how I survived my first week.

Saturday, June 18th
First full day of bedrest. I was so restless all day. I tried to stay in one place but I ended up getting up every 2 hours or so just to stretch. I binge watched tv most of the day and even took 2 naps.  Kris ended up having to run out of me twice. I had a pregnancy craving for cookies. I decided they needed a cookie delivery place!

Later that night, Kris and I were both restless so Kris decided to hang the nursery art as I directed.

Sunday, June 19th
Father's Day. I surprised Kris with his first Father's Day card and a cute onsie. I think he enjoyed the :)

Today was harder than Saturday. Bedrest seems to be good for me though because I was down 4 pounds, my blood pressure was normal, and all my swelling had gone away. I had to find things to be productive though because I was getting bored. I started a meal train for two purposes: 1 to help Kris prepare food and 2 so I could get some visitors.

I tried to help Kris with laundry as much as I could. I finally started my 2015 year in review book (have been trying to complete this since December). I was also able to complete a full season of Grey's Anatomy.

Sierra was enjoying bedrest too! 

Monday, June 20th
I worked a little bit from home but was overwhelmed with exhaustion for some reason. I did have my first stress test and sonogram to check on baby. I learned more about how they track baby and what they need to see before I leave my visit. Baby was doing great and I learned that he has hair!

The rest of the day, I tried to work a little more and relax.

Tuesday, June 21st
I had tons of energy! I felt like I could do anything! I was able to work a full day from home, I ordered pizza , and I was even approved to get a massage. It was a great day! I didn't mind the bedrest too much when I felt so good.

Wednesday, June 22nd
Bedrest starting to irritate me for the first time. I ended up being up most of the night before due to acid reflux. I had a bad headache all day and just felt exhausted. I wasn't sure how I was going to make it through the day.

Luckily, I had two visitors. Jackie visited me on my lunch break and brought Kris and I dinner. It was so nice to have human interaction in person. After work, Sarah visited me to bring me my laptop. Even though it was work related, it was nice to talk and see someone that I am used to seeing everyday. After my visits, I was tired but glad to have some company.

Also, Wednesdays are now my "try something new" day. I played video games on my phone for the first time. It was a nice alternative to tv. Kris just laughed at me.

Thursday, June 23rd
Today, I had my 2nd stress test. It showed that I was having slight contractions but the nurse said it was probably due to the heat since they went away while I laid there. Baby didn't want to move as much today but he still had a good reading. (He is a night mover anyways.) My blood pressure was a little higher than before (130/80) but nothing to be alarmed about. I told the nurse it was nice to get out of the house. I felt rejuvenated just driving and being outside.

After a full day of work, Ginni came by and brought Kris and I tons of food. She stayed and visited for awhile. We talked about preparations for baby the majority of the time and we were able to show her the nursery. After her visit, I started thinking of everything I still had to do before Baby Cunigan arrives. I couldn't get to sleep because I thought about everything that still needed to be done.


Friday, June 24th
Today, started as a rough day. I was over emotional and felt like I had a million things to do. I was mad that I had to stay in bed and that I would be all by myself for the day. I even asked Kris to stay home even though I knew he would have to go in. It felt like I was having an emotional breakdown. I cried and couldn't stop crying. For some reason, I thought of everything I was missing out on this summer, I thought of my huge to-do list, and then I realized how alone I felt being at home all the time. (Bedrest is not a good thing for an extrovert- I have decided.).

After I got it all out, I was able to focus and work for the day. I still was sad and felt very uncomfortable. (A person can only stay in a position for so long.) I think it made me sad too because I knew work was having a picnic for the full afternoon and I was missing out.

I was so glad when Kris got home. I had him tell me all about his day and just enjoyed having someone with me. I decided to start crocheting as well. I watched a tutorial and tried it. It took me a little bit until I got the hang of it but I realized why many choose to crochet when they have time on their hands. For dinner, we were able to eat leftovers from the week which was nice.

Looking over the week, we ate better than we have ever eaten. It was nice to have friends taking care of us.

Saturday, June 25th
Kris and I slept in since we didn't have anything planned and were homebound. Most of the day, I crocheted and watched movies while Kris relaxed as well. My potholder I was crocheting has now turned into a baby scarf. (It was too narrow.) It wasn't too bad being homebound with someone at home.

I decided to watch, "What to Expect When you are Expecting", and I laughed so hard. If anyone knows me and how I have been through the pregnancy, they know I am exactly like the Elizabeth Banks character (the crazy one). It was so comical but so true for me.

I am so glad to have one week behind me. Only 9 more weeks until Baby Cunigan!!

First Stress Test for Baby

Today, Monday June 20th, I had my first Stress Test to monitor Baby Cunigan. I was nervous and a little stressed due to traffic on the way to the hospital. 

At first,  they hooked me up to a fetal monitor and another monitor to track my contractions. She explained that we would do these tests every Monday and Thursday to make sure my blood pressure stayed down and that Baby Cunigan stayed healthy. 

She explained that they would monitor the fluctuation in the baby's heart rate.  Fluctuations meant movement which equals a healthy baby.  The baby wasn't as active but still enough to show on the monitor.

The nurse told me my feet looked great especially since I had been off of them.  She took my blood pressure and was worried it would be high but it was only 128/82. She was very glad. 

I then had a sonogram to make sure baby was moving and everything looked good. The best thing is that I got to see the Baby's hair.  I kept saying my heartburn was so bad and it turns out our baby has a head of hair! Everything else looked good as well.

My next check will be on Thursday! Hoping to continue the easy visits.  Bedrest seems to be working. 

Making the most of Bedrest-Hanging up the nursery art

Saturday, June 19th was my first day of bedrest.  Kris and I took it easy most of the day but around 10 PM, we couldn't handle it anymore.  We decided to hang the nursery artwork.  I sat and directed as kris hung up the work.  We were excited to have one more thing checked off the list!

Me and Sierra Watching

Change in Setting-Bedrest

Yesterday, Friday, June 17th, I had to go back to Labor and Delivery. After Wednesday's appointment, my blood pressure continued to stay high (for me) and I had a constant headache. As a new mom, I called the doctor on Thursday to see what I needed to do. She informed me to try Tylenol and keep track of my headache and blood pressure as needed.

Friday morning, I woke up again with another headache. I decided to take my in-home blood pressure kit to work so I could track my blood pressure. My blood pressure continued to fluctuate. I tried not to call the doctor but after talking to several moms in my office, they said it was better to be safe than sorry.

I called my doctor right away. At first I was relieved because the nurse said that they usually don't have expectant moms come back in unless their blood pressure is 140/90. My blood pressure at that time was only 130/86. The nurse said she wanted to check with the doctor though just to be sure.

After waiting for awhile, the doctor decided to have me check back into Labor and Delivery. I felt so weird being back and I hated that I even had to be admitted again. I didn't want Baby Cunigan to be in trouble though so I was glad to at least get everything checked out.

My first reading was 144/90. I was nervous that it was continuing to elevate even though I was laying down. The nurse said they would track it for at least an hour and make sure Baby Cunigan was moving and healthy. My blood pressure continued to stay high and Baby Cunigan did not want to cooperate. He did not want to be monitored at all. He kept moving around so the monitor could not pick him up. The nurse said that is a good sign though because an active baby is a healthy baby. (This of course made me feel better!)

After being at the hospital for 2-3 hours, the nurse said I could be discharged but my daily schedule would have to change. Due to the heat and my elevated blood pressure, the doctor did not want to take any risks. They decided my best option would be Bed rest.

When they mentioned bedrest to me, I thought "Oh okay, I just have to be home and chill. Nothing too crazy to worry about." Then the nurse said it would consist of me either being in bed or on the couch all day; no exceptions. She said I could only get up if necessary and to shower once a day. Also, they would have me start coming in twice a week to take stress tests. The doctor said I could continue to work if possible and as long as my blood pressure doesn't get higher.

For anyone who knows me, being "sentenced" to bedrest is like punishment to me. During this pregnancy, I haven't been able to do as much as I would like to but I could still get out and do things from time to time. A few times I may have overdone it but I always found time to rest. Now for the remainder of my pregnancy, 10 weeks (unless things change), I will be on bedrest at home.

Please keep me and Baby Cunigan in your prayers and if anyone wants to help Kris and I out, please let me know. It may be a long 10 weeks but my main goal is for Baby Cunigan to stay strong and healthy!

Choosing a Daycare

Choosing a daycare was one of the hardest decisions for us. I started our daycare search in late February/early March. As a former teacher, I had high expectations for anyone who takes care and teaches my child. I want the best for my child and don't trust just anyone to take care of him.

Over my long search, I researched daycares on line. changed my schedule to visit day cares, and stressed over how to choose the "right fit". I think over the course of a few months, I visited at least 8 daycares. I took notes at each, asked the "right" questions, and ranked each place. It is crazy to think that several only had one or two openings for late October/early November. Most had waitlists in place as well.

This past Wednesday, June 15th, Kris and I were finally able to finalize our plans for Baby Cunigan's Daycare. We ended up choosing an in-home daycare that fits our needs. I was very excited to finally check another thing off the list. Only 10 more weeks until Baby Cunigan's arrival :)

Doctor's Appointment-30 Weeks

Today, June 15th, I had my 30 week check up with my doctor. The appointment today was supposed to be quick, easy, and painless. One thing I have learned with pregnancy is things do not go as planned.

As mentioned previously, my weight has been a concern. I was lucky enough to find out I didn't have gestational diabetes and my doctor even said my weight was better at my last appointment. For some reason though, my weight had increased by 12 pounds in two weeks! The doctor said it must be wrong so she weighed me again. Still over 12 pounds from last visit. She said I just needed to watch it but it probably was due to all the water retention.

Then, the nurse took my blood pressure. She acted a little funny and then told me my blood pressure was 140/80 which is very high for me. She said she would just come back after the appointment and take it again.

The appointment was smooth while the doctor was there. We talked about upcoming weeks and different questions. Baby was measuring just right and his heartbeat was still strong at 150. The doctor mentioned that we may have to talk about restrictions soon due to swelling and blood pressure but we would wait and see. For now, she told me to focus on a low sodium/salt diet.

After the appointment, the nurse came back and took my blood pressure. My blood pressure went up to 158/94. The doctor decided it was best for me to be admitted for labs and monitoring for at least an hour. I didn't think too much of it at first but then she had me check in at the birth center, get a hospital band, and had me in the labor and delivery area. I was super nervous being by myself especially since I didn't know what could happen.

The nurse had me put on an actual robe and explained that I would have to be monitored for at least an hour. She had one monitor to track the baby, one monitor to track contractions, and one monitor to check my blood pressure every 5-10 minutes. I had to have labs taken as well to check for Preeclampsia.

Luckily, the nurse was very nice and explained that with the hot weather, my blood pressure could be a fluck. She said there were several women this week that had come in due to heat related issues. She let me listen to baby as she turned the lights low and allowed me to rest.

My phone was dying so I had nothing else to do besides lay my head back and rest.

After an hour, the nurse came in to tell me that my labs were great and that my blood pressure went down to 127/80. She said they were going to release me but I had to monitor everything, start a low sodium diet, and look into options to help me relax and stay cool. I was grateful for good results but realized that I must take care of myself for the next few weeks.

Also, baby was great! The nurse said he was one of the most active babies she had seen. He was just flipping having a good time while I was a little panicked. Very glad he is safe and healthy!

Baby Fair

On Sunday, June 12th, Kris and I attended the KC Baby Fair. I wasn't sure what to expect because the event only had okay reviews but I was able to get cheap tickets and I wanted to check it out. Kris and I ended up really enjoying it.

At first, it was very overwhelming with all kinds of baby information. We learned about safe sleep, how to put a baby in a car, first aid, and cpr. I had an idea about some of these topics but it was nice for Kris and I to learn together.

We also were able to look into baby products and see what is out there. We ended up finding the cutest newborn hats for Baby Cunigan.

We stayed about 2-3 hours but were glad we went. Looking forward to learning even more as we prepare for Baby Cunigan!

Baby Bucket list #3-Finishing my Masters

On Tuesday, May 24th, I completed another item on my before baby bucket list. I wanted to have my Masters complete before I had kids. (I cut it a little close!) But I did it! I was able to complete my MBA in Project Management in just a little over a year.

I usually love school but it was a struggle. I am not as good of an online learner as I would like to be and I procrastinated through several classes. I wanted to complete my degree with a 4.0 which didn't happen but I am proud to say I graduated with a 3.91.

I can't wait to celebrate at our Commencement Ceremony in August. I just told the baby the he has to wait until after the ceremony before he makes his appearance :)

28 Weeks-Doctor's Appointment

On Friday, June 3rd, I had my 28 weeks doctor's appointment. The main reason for the appointment was testing for gestational diabetes. With my crazy weight gain,  I thought I may actually have it. 

Before the appointment,  I drank the dreaded drink. I was plesantly surprised that it tasted like HI-C. It definitely gave me a headache and gave me  the shakes. 

At the appointment,  they took my blood for the test,  checked on baby, and answered any questions.  Baby was measuring normally and healthy. My weight had stayed the same so I was close to healthy weight.  It felt good.  

I was given homework though.  Before I go back, I must schedule our birthing class and find a pediatrician.  

For the results of my gestational diabetes,  I had to wait until today (Monday). I ate as much sugar as I could this weekend in case I had it. This afternoon I received the official news that I do not have gestational diabetes! I was very relieved!

The Start of the Third Trimester

On Wednesday, June 1st, I officially started the third trimester. I am in the home stretch now. It is starting to feel more real than ever. I feel like these last few months, I have several things left to do! I am starting to feel nervous and anxious but excited at the same time.

I am ready to start the final checklists and get ready for Baby Cunigan!

June 1st was also my 28th birthday! It was an emotional day. The realization of becoming a mom, getting older, and preparing for baby hit. I am hoping that this is the best year yet. I always said I wanted to be 28 when I had my first child. It is a crazy realization now!

Adrienne's Wedding

On May 28th, my whole family was able to get together to celebrate Adrienne and Corey's wedding. Weddings have always been my thing and I love to help with whatever I can. Since I have been pregnant, I haven't had as much energy and it has been more difficult to do things. At their wedding, I was able to help take pictures and assist the photographer. I felt like my old self! It was nice to be a little energized and be able to do things.

May Doctor's Appointment

On May 5th, I had my May Doctor's appointment. It was a very successful appointment because I prepared and had several questions ready. At my appointment, I was 24 weeks. My blood pressure ended up being higher than normal. The doctor wasn't worried since she said it could just be stressed related especially since I had been traveling and a lot had been going on in my personal life.

Baby Cunigan was still measuring just right but my weight gain was a lot for only being 24 weeks. The doctor suggested seeing a dietician to see if it would help. She wasn't worried but she thought it may help me since I am hungry all the time. Technically, to stay healthy, I could only gain 2 more pounds. I was sad because I thought this may mean giving up pizza.

Another thing I found out is that I should be able to start feeling the baby every day and I should start tracking it. I told the doctor I really hadn't felt him move. She showed me what it feels like and it turns out I had probably been feeling him and I thought it was just my stomach rumbling. I was excited to start tracking the baby.

Later that night, I was laying down talking to Baby Cunigan with Sierra by myself. I was telling the baby about Sierra and about how they were going to be best friends. It may have been a coincidence but the baby kicked as I said they were going to be best friends. It was a very cool feeling!

Maternity Pictures

On May 15th, Kris and I were able to take maternity pictures with Lacey Morefield. We had a wonderful time! We took pictures at the Kauffman Performing Art Center, a vine wall downtown, and the Liberty Memorial. Saren came along to help with Sierra. We wanted to make sure we had a full family picture and our family is not complete without Sierra.

With Saren and Lacey, we were able to capture beautiful maternity pictures. We were lucky too because during the whole shoot it was supposed to rain. It didn't start raining until the shoot was fully over. It was perfect timing!

Here are just a few of my favorites from Lacey! Lacey is wonderful photographer and great for family pictures. You can check out her blog here: http://www.laceyrenestudios.com/blog/2016/5/19/kris-amanda-maternity-downtown-kansas-city

First Baby Shower-Ahoy It's a Boy!

For my first baby shower, I decided to invite all my friends outside of work. Scarlett and Lauren hosted the shower and planned a nautical theme even before we knew we were having a boy. It worked out for the theme :)

Due to the weekend we chose, several people couldn't come. It ended up being an intimate and casual shower. I definitely needed that because getting ready for the shower was one of the first times I had trouble getting ready by myself. My feet were swollen, I couldn't zip my own dress, and I had trouble curling my own hair. I was able to relax once I got to the shower.

The shower was wonderful. We sat around and told stories, played games, and ate a lovely brunch.