2.16.12

Last week was my second {& final!} baby shower, given by my darling sisters & a very sweet friend, Rachel Allison. It was an elegant evening affair with pink “princess” themed decorations, amazing gluten-free cupcakes from Cupcrazed in Baxter Village, and a giant bouquet of flowers! The group of ladies consisted mostly of my relatives {a surprisingly large crowd!} + a few close friends. It was a wonderful time! I received some VERY generous gifts, including a highchair, a breast pump, a sizable baby bathtub, and a beautiful nursing cover, not to mention adorable clothes & practical accessories for Raspberry. My friend Amelia even brought me a handmade pink knit baby hat! {wow}

My mom & sisters gave me a “gift certificate” for a month of meals, and this past Thursday they spent most of the day making + packaging food to stock my freezer with a wide variety of gourmet dinners for after the berry is born. What a big help!

Tomorrow I am 37 weeks {ahh! so close!} and feeling pretty good! Kind of like a small whale, but still able to get around… trying to walk as much as possible, stay hydrated, and get enough rest. The nesting instinct has kicked in – I’ve reorganized our closet, Raspberry’s dresser, all the kitchen cabinets + the bookcase. Next is the pantry. {grin}

=)

2.14.12

I like how our anniversary is close enough to Valentine’s Day that when we’re feeling more in love than ever and ready to celebrate a milestone, the rest of the world is too! We skipped today’s obsession with chocolate + flowers, but that doesn’t change the fact that Greg is my sweetheart and I love him very much. {hug!}

Interestingly, Julianna and her fiancé don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day either! As Greg said, must be a sign that our families will always be close. {so Christine, will the trend continue? -wink}

Raspberry & I went to a lovely luncheon in Southpark on Sunday, where we heard several excellent presentations on Biblical love and courtship. It was Julianna’s 5th year putting this event together, and {unfortunately} her final one, due to her upcoming wedding. She gave little Raspberry a special mention, echoing my own thoughts about how meaningful it is that my daughter could be present, in a way. I would have loved for the berry to attend a luncheon like this when she is older! I was honored to be there {technically only for single young ladies} as one of last year’s speakers, and had the privilege of hearing my mother share her wisdom with the girls present. Her talk was titled “It Doesn’t Just Happen,” an appropriately practical guide to becoming an ideal wife. Julianna shared from her own courtship experience, and her future mother-in-law spoke about understanding a guy’s perspective + adapting to his lifestyle. Raspberry loved being there, and we were both pleased about putting a cute outfit together! {black knit Express skirt, boots, and a cherry red sweater from Destination Maternity} Thanks to Mums and Julianna for continuing to lend me clothes… {grin}

According to my weekly pregnancy email, this is the time when the berry should be dropping {lightening}, making a noticeably lower bump. Waiting for developments…

=)

2.13.12

We’re in the final stretch! I’ve officially started my ninth month of pregnancy. {yay!} According to my Aunt Lynn, when there’s 4 weeks left most women are READY… and I’m just about at that point. This coming Sunday is our “safe date,” when I reach 37 weeks and we can safely deliver the berry at CCMC, instead of a hospital. So she can arrive anytime after Sunday and it’ll be fine with me!

Speaking of which, Greg & I are rapidly coming up on our one year anniversary {March 6}, and part of our celebration is a stay at the Westin this weekend + a full day together to relax and enjoy time alone. We’re considering this little getaway our “babymoon” {definition: one last fling before the responsibilities of parenthood}. I can’t wait! The Westin is where we spent our wedding night… definitely some special memories there {as well as the 3-hour wait which resulted in us being given this complimentary romance package}!

Our long search for a washer and dryer has ended – we were given a gorgeous brand-new set by my parents, in honor of their granddaughter’s birth! We are so grateful, and we could not be happier to do laundry in our own home for the first time. {grin} {who knew washing clothes could be such a gratifying experience?}

=)

1.30.12

“To some degree, the first pregnancy spells the end of carefree youth – very important to Americans. The maidenly figure goes gradually into eclipse, and with it goes sprightly grace. Both eclipses are temporary but very real. The woman realizes that after the baby comes there will be distinct limitations of social life and other outside pleasures. No more hopping into the car on the spur of the moment, going anywhere the heart desires and coming home at any odd hour. The same budget has to be spread thinner, and her husband’s attention, all of which has gone to her at home, will soon be going to two.”
-Dr. Spock’s Baby and Child Care, by Benjamin Spock, M.D & Michael Rothenberg, M.D.
{originally published 1945}

A profound quote from Dr. Spock… surprisingly accurate! I like how he describes the loss of “maidenly figure” and “sprightly grace.” Couldn’t have chosen better words myself. {grin}

Updates:
1. We have decided Raspberry will spend her first few weeks in a bassinet rather than our giant crib. This will save us space and be a LOT easier for me to use, as well as adding flexibility to our living arrangement by allowing us to move her around. The crib is safely tucked out of the way until she is ready for it.
2. Raspberry’s grandma {Mums} gave me a matching set of Vera Bradley diaper bags! There’s a smaller “purse” sized one for quick outings, and a much larger tote bag for day trips, both in the Very Berry print. Love them!! So we practiced this weekend by filling up the small bag and taking it to Bella Torah with us. {grin} I think we had everything we needed… with the obvious exception of the berry herself.
3. Speaking of which, we’re down to 6 weeks! Unbelievable how quickly she’ll be here.
4. Two important purchases need to be made in the next 6 weeks: first, a car seat; second, a washer & dryer. Both essential to living with an infant!
5. My appointments with Leigh have increased to every two weeks. I’ve gained 23 pounds so far, and recently had to get a few longer tops… even my maternity shirts were too short! Now I realize what my pregnancy books were saying about slowing down – it almost feels like I’m in slow motion. And the dreaded pregnancy waddle has arrived. {grin}

=)

1.23.12

A week ago, we had just said goodbye to our very first houseguests! Madison Hackett and her brother Cole came to stay with us for a few delightful days… and because they were so easygoing + amiable, we had no trouble fitting them in the apartment. {grin} Greg & I met the Hackett family at one of Tim Hegg’s conferences in Atlanta, November 2010. Madison and I have kept in touch through email ever since then. We enjoyed our guests so much – the visit seemed over too soon. The last night they were here, we had a fabulous time out at The Cowfish {sushi + burgers} with the Squicciarini 4 and a few other friends!

That same weekend we attended a double bar mitzvah down in Rock Hill, for Timothy and Isaac Gordon. It was a really neat ceremony! If Raspberry had turned out to be a blueberry after all, I would have probably felt more of a personal connection with the details – thinking ahead to when we would plan our own son’s bar mitzvah. But she is very much a girl. {yay!}

Then Sunday was my baby shower! My mother-in-law hosted a lovely afternoon shower for the ladies of Bella Torah. They brought me some beautiful gifts – adorable baby clothes, diapers, bath supplies, books, toys, a playpen, and even a handmade quilt! Greg’s mom gave me the cutest baby swing, which has a detachable bouncy seat, and we agreed that she’ll keep the swing at her house while I keep the seat {so Raspberry can watch while I cook dinner}.

It was a special treat to see my friend Autumn Munoz at the bar mitzvah and my baby shower – she’s visiting from her new home in Curaçao. Autumn is expecting a baby girl just a month after me {to be named Moriah Arielle}.

=)

1.10.12

Greg & I have our second childbirth class tonight at CCMC. We’ve started a 4-week series on natural birth led by Katia Neme. Last week was about the stages of labor, and the material was fascinating! {although I had to look away at one point during an educational film showing an actual birth… disturbingly graphic} Kat is a terrific instructor, very funny + charismatic! Sounds like she has some fun projects planned for the remainder of the series. Tonight we had an assignment to bring a “focus object” that we can use during labor. I have baby photos of Greg & I… but I might also include the famous balance for two picture, to remind me how special my little Raspberry is!

Feeling much more prepared mentally for the “agony & ecstasy” of birth… while trying to stay in good physical condition too.

Today the barista at Starbucks asked, “How much longer do you have?” “9 weeks,” I replied cheerfully. “Whoa, that much? You’re way out there!” he responded, with surprise. “9 weeks is nothing,” I informed him crisply. At that point he started backtracking, insisted I was “all baby,” and eventually gave me my decaf soy latte for free, out of guilt. Just another day in the life of a pregnant woman… {grin}

=)

1.9.12

Typical Bristol days are spent sitting around the fireplace reading, knitting, or talking {with soft French music in the background} interspersed with brisk walks outside or trips into town. SO relaxing! This tradition of a winter mini-retreat has become established over the last five years. {this year was the first time married people were included, meaning mom & me…} The current question is: what about next winter, when {B”H} I’ll have a 9-month-old? Are babies allowed? And what about multiple children? Would we all need to find babysitters for the weekend? Definitely something to think about now, before any of us really has children {you know what I mean}!

=)

1.8.12

It’s me! Still here, still pregnant. {wink} Blogging a pregnancy has been harder than I thought… seems like once everything else is taken care of, there’s no time {or energy!} left for posting. But here I am, getting closer and closer to the big day!

January 1 found me 30 weeks pregnant, with around 10 weeks to go until my March 11 due date. {!!!} Around here we’re starting to countdown the weeks… not out of desperation, just huge amounts of anticipation. {grin}

2011 was by far the most exciting + significant year of my life {married!!}, but it looks like 2012 will top last year {even if the world doesn’t end…} with the birth of my daughter. May she be a healthy, happy little girl who brings sparkle into our lives!

This morning I am headed up to Bristol VA with my mom + sisters for the annual Squicciarini girls retreat… the first separation Greg & I have had in our married life. {eek} We have 2 events to plan during our mini-vacation: a little baby shower for friends + extended family, and the “Raspberry Party” {a celebration for my family & Greg’s family to meet the berry when she’s born}. FUN!

=)

12.9.11

Updates!

• Raspberry is over 2lbs and 15″ long… what a big girl! {wink}
• She has her own dresser now, filled with a surprising amount of tiny clothes. She is slowly establishing a dainty feminine wardrobe. The dresser was another family project… everybody helped in getting it to my house. It was originally a $5 yard sale find, back when Mums & I used to yard sale. She and I had painted it a fresh minty green, and I’ve now repainted it a neutral cream color.
• My baby bump is 36″ around, in case you didn’t see that fact on Twitter. Somebody said to me the other day, “Oh, you’ve popped out!” {grin…}
• Alternating between confident “can’t wait to have a daughter” to flashes of doubtful “but this is lifechanging” thoughts… I think it’ll be the same as getting married: something that can’t be undone {!} and might seem like a big deal but you quickly realize it’s the best thing that ever happened to you.
• Completed my baby registry! I’ve registered for a few things at Buy Buy Baby in preparation for the baby shower my mother-in-law is giving me in January. It was tough to make decisions – I’m shocked how much baby stuff is out there! And how expensive!
• We did a little photoshoot with my sister Mary this week, and got a few “pregnant” pictures… really the first ones we’ve taken since there was a significant baby bump to see. {grin}

=)

11.27.11

Hope everyone had a fantastic time of Thanksgiving this week! Greg & I drove up to Bristol VA to spend a few days with my grandparents + extended family {Dave & Tina Stelzl}. It was so good to see everyone! Raspberry made her presence obvious, as usual. {grin}

We took some time on Friday afternoon to reflect on the ways G-d has blessed us, both major and minor things, and recognize His goodness to us. You know, I am very thankful for Raspberry. I love her SO much, already! But my biggest blessing is, without a doubt, Gregory Aaron Bartos.

Greg and I recently read “The Committed Marriage” by Rebbetzin Esther Jungreis {an easy read which I highly recommend} and Rebbetzin Jungreis goes through five essential qualities for living a purposeful and meaningful life {the basis of a committed marriage}. The very first quality is having a good eye, meaning a benevolent and caring attitude – always seeing the good rather than the bad in others. She says:

There are two ways of looking at every situation. You can see light or darkness, blessing or curse. You can see the world with a good eye or a bad eye. Depending on which eye you choose, you can become either considerate or bitter, patient or angry, giving or niggardly, content or miserable, warm or cantankerous, loving or critical – it’s all contingent upon how you train your eye. And that is the legacy you leave behind. That is your eulogy.

At one time or another, we all experience events that are beyond our comprehension, events that may leave us feeling hopeless, cynical, and bitter. On such occasions, our good eye can infuse us with faith and fortify us with the knowledge that there must be a reason for what is happening, even if, for the moment, that reason eludes us. Most often, however, we allow these traumas to strip us of our faith and fill our hearts with anger and bitterness. But if we look at our predicament with a good eye, see our difficulties as challenges, as opportunities for growth, we will find something positive on which to focus. This holds true not only in time of crisis, but also in the normal ups and downs of life.

I am incredibly blessed, far beyond what I deserve, with a husband who has a good eye. Greg finds the good in everything, not only making me feel loved and treasured, but also setting an example for me of a positive outlook on life which consistently glorifies G-d. When it comes to our marriage, he sees his weaknesses + my strengths, as the sages describe…

{Man was given two eyes, so that with one, he should see his own faults, and with the other, he should see the virtues of others. -the Baal Shem Tov}

Greg, you always inspire me… I love you sweetheart!

=)

11.22.11

This post is WAY overdue… because I’m struggling to find words to express simply overwhelming gratitude to my family. Each one of them has contributed to making this pregnancy a stellar experience, every moment of it.

First of all, my sisters have consistently showered me with gifts over the past few months. I didn’t think my love language was gifts, but I’m starting to reconsider. {grin} I’m touched by their thoughtfulness every time, because they never ask if I *need* anything – they just send over a yummy snack or a little treat for me {I truly don’t lack for anything, so it’s not like there are pressing needs}. A couple months ago they came up with a creative way for us to learn about pregnancy together, which I’ve loved! {wink}

Individually, my sisters have been there for me as well. Mary comes over every Tuesday for our baby class, and she always looks for ways to help me while she’s there. Mary has mopped my kitchen floor, cleaned my bathroom tiles {what truer expression of love!}, organized my pantry, put away my off-season clothes, and moved heavy boxes for me so far – besides managing my nutrition, making me exercise, and taking candid pregnant pics! It’s a sweet part of my week to have her over and spend some quality time with her.

When I had a cold a few weeks ago, Christine showed up at my door with a care package {hot tomato soup, a glossy new Real Simple magazine, & a cute get-well card} that made me smile and feel a hundred times better. I think she masterminds most of the baking projects that find their way to me {banana cookies, homemade macaroni & cheese, gluten-free brownies}… and when we were wondering how to fit a potentially giant pile of baby accessories in the apartment, she took on the challenge of drawing diagrams and sketching out the best way to use our space. Christine took me on my first *long* walk {4 miles at the Trader Joe’s greenway} and that walk inspired me to aim for 2 miles a day at our local park. Most recently, she found a knitting pattern for a cozy sweater I could wear this winter, and made it for me!* It’s raspberry-colored, of course. {grin} Christine is naturally upbeat, a real party girl, and I always look forward to her newest bright idea for social events.

*note: everyone generously chipped in for the yarn

Julianna is busy with her own EXCITING plans, of course, {!!} but she still manages to be a part of the pregnancy experience. I love how she always greets me with an enthusiastic hug and the exclamation “loved one!” {grin} Julianna made a weekly walking date with me for early Wednesday mornings, which has been a great opportunity to catch up with each other! Two weeks ago, we invited Julianna and her fiancé over for Erev Shabbat dinner, and Julianna insisted on bringing the entire meal for us so I didn’t have to cook. Amazing!

It is one of the greatest joys in my life right now to see how involved my sisters are with Raspberry, even before she makes her entrance into the world! They are so genuinely pleased about having a niece, while I am thrilled about the influence these righteous women will have on my daughter.

My brother’s reaction to the pregnancy has perhaps been the most unexpected. He hasn’t had much exposure to babies, and I wasn’t sure, initially, if he would feel a personal connection to Raspberry, or merely observe her from a detached distance. To my delight, he entered the baby preparations wholeheartedly– and in his understated way I think he’s just as excited as I am. {grin} He has educated himself on pregnancy, coming out with interesting trivia and unusual facts every now and then. Peter even surprised me with a generous offer to babysit once a week, so Greg & I could have some time to ourselves! {I can totally see him holding little Raspberry and explaining the basics of public key cryptography to her [using raspberries instead of avocados, naturally] while she looks up at him thoughtfully…} A couple months ago, Peter did an entire load of laundry for me at his house, folded it, and personally brought it over on his lunch break. I couldn’t believe it! He is unfailingly helpful and caring. {hug}

When it comes to my mom, the question is where to start! Seems like her goal is to always send me home with something useful – from fresh homegrown veggies to coupons to clothes from her own stylish closet. I’ve consulted her on innumerable points about pregnancy/childbirth, and she has patiently replied to every question with {as usual} down-to-earth advice. Even though I don’t live at The Residence anymore, I feel like Mums still takes care of me. I loved a comment she made when we were talking about the new year ahead {around Rosh HaShanah}, about feeling like she would be losing Julianna this year but replacing her with Raspberry, in a sense. {grin} It is so wonderful to know that my mom truly wants to be around her grandchildren and play a key part in their upbringing.

Recently Mums joined a cute ladies gym in Matthews and gave me a class pass so we could go together. I’m really enjoying taking a couple of classes there each week!

Last but not least, my dad is exuberant about the birth of his first grandchild {which means telling everyone about it}. In fact, he already put up a playset in the backyard for “the grandchildren” {months ago!}. My dad is always considerate about including Greg & I in whatever the family is doing. I can tell he already loves Raspberry, and I can’t wait to see him with her.

In conclusion, a HUGE thank you to my family – I love each of you very much!

=)

11.17.11

The birth center I’m using offers classes on three different “birth methods:” Lamaze, Bradley, and hypnobirthing. I’ve been told we need to choose one, and then study with an instructor in preparation for birth. So far I’ve read an overview of each one… and I’m really leaning toward the Bradley Method. “Husband-coached childbirth,” viewing birth as a natural process, believing that natural {drug-free} childbirth is the best way to achieve healthy babies + healthy mothers… doesn’t that sound perfect?

I’d like to go through a book with Greg, to get some more information, and eventually take a few classes together.

=)

11.16.11

Noticed I’ve started to think in terms of we rather than me, as in “We’re going to the grocery store today.” Getting used to the idea of doing everything with someone else, which is probably great preparation for taking a baby everywhere! Making a conscious effort to savor my “alone” time now, knowing it will be rare in a few months. {grin}

Last night, for the first time, Greg and I sat in bed and watched my stomach move! I’ve been feeling a lot of movement, but I didn’t realize you could actually see Raspberry’s little kicks and wiggles until now. Yet another amazing experience of pregnancy…

So there are pregnant women all over the place, strangely enough. Either most of Charlotte got pregnant this summer, or it’s one of those mind things {you buy a red car and all the sudden you notice tons of people have red cars}. I still feel like it’s kind of a personal journey though. It would have been fun to meet regularly with a friend and talk about our pregnancies… that didn’t happen this time, but I’m hoping it does in the future with one of my sisters. {grin} With three of them, the chances are pretty good.

=)

11.7.11

Greg & I just had our first “baby name” session! We went through the letters A-L in our name book, testing them out loud and making a list of ones to consider. This is going to be really tricky… I’m feeling some pressure to choose the right name for our baby girl.

When it comes to secular names, Greg likes Anastasia, while I’ve always been partial to Charlotte. We agreed that the Hebrew name Ariel {Lion of G-d} is beautiful – too bad it’s been stolen by a mermaid.

I’m getting the sense that this particular baby name book is more classical/traditional, instead of unusual/modern, which we might lean towards. I have one friend who just named her daughter Ember Sky, plus another planning to use Kai Elise… and they didn’t find those names in this book, I can tell you. So when the book is done we might move our search to Google.

It’s amazing, by the way, how many familiar girls’ names come from mythological characters! Quite startling.

The funniest name we saw was Lotus. We tried it out: Lotus Bartos. “This is our daughter, Lotus.” “Lotus, are you ready for lunch?” “Lotus, it’s naptime.” Hilarious! {grin} Not to make fun of anyone actually named Lotus. I believe the flowers are lovely.

=)

11.3.11

My second prenatal visit at Carolina Community Maternity Center {CCMC} was last Wednesday, and this is probably a good time to bring you all up to date on our decision about a care provider! We have chosen to work with a midwife at CCMC and deliver Raspberry there, B”H. After carefully evaluating all the facts, seeking guidance from family, and asking direction from G-d, we are confident this is the best option for us.

I am still getting to know Leigh {my midwife}, but so far we have had two excellent visits. She is friendly and down-to-earth in a calm, capable way… reminding me a little bit of my Aunt Tina because she is extremely level-headed and basically knows all the answers. {grin} Leigh is also impressively prompt with emails. Here is a recent exchange:

Me: Leigh, I’ve been told I should be drinking a gallon of water each day. Is this true?  That seems like a lot. Wouldn’t it depend on the size of a person? Help!

Leigh: A gallon a day!  That’s quite the overstatement!  Half a gallon a day is plenty, and that’s assuming you aren’t getting much fluid otherwise.  My advice is to carry water with you at all times and drink whenever you get thirsty.  When you drink something, try to make it water as often as possible.  Never quench your thirst with a sugary drink.  (If you want to sip on something sweet, do it after you’ve drunk water, so you’re not tempted to take too much.)  All the liquid in your diet contributes to your overall hydration, so things like fruits and veggies and soups may decrease the amount of water you need.  Of course different body sizes have different needs, and any one-size-fits-all recommendation is not going to be exact.  Listen to your body.  Don’t over-hydrate because of numbers.  Drink lots of water, but because it feels good to do so, not to meet an arbitrary level.

See? Excellent common sense. {grin}

At the visit last week, we talked about the standard glucose test for gestational diabetes and ended up deciding to skip the test because it is extremely unlikely that I have gestational diabetes. This is what I like about midwives: flexibility, not “by the book” mentality.

=)

10.25.11

WE’RE HAVING A GIRL!!!

The ultrasound experience last night was wonderful! We went to 3D Dreams in Baxter Village, Fort Mill {recommended by my midwife, Leigh Fransen}, and the two ladies there were SO friendly. They are 99% sure little Raspberry Bartos is a girl. {grin} So it turns out we have a pink berry after all.

We watched our daughter move around, stretch her arms up, open her mouth… we heard her heartbeat… it was truly amazing! To think we were seeing inside the womb – what a miracle of technology. The images were so clear it almost felt like we could reach out and touch her.

After the ultrasound we visited both our families to share the news with them {plus a bunch of pictures} and celebrate – first a stop in Fort Mill to visit Greg’s mom and sister, and then over to Matthews to see my family {including Julianna’s fiancé, who was -not surprisingly- there as well}. My sisters had come up with an idea to “toast” to the baby, using… toast! And really, nothing beats crisp toast with butter + raspberry jam and hot tea as an evening snack. {grin} They also gave us our first PINK item, a tiny bib from Life is Good!

Now –> to come up with the perfect name. Yes, we are taking suggestions. So far we have received “Josephina,” from my mom, which may have been a joke.

=)

10.24.11

The other day Greg was talking about how he used to paint his sister’s nails when she was a toddler, and I had a sudden fear that he was picturing tiny red or purple fingernails on Raspberry {should she turn out to be a girl}… so I hastily double-checked that we were on the same page when it comes to raising a little girl. We’ve agreed to avoid these things in the first few years of our daughter’s life:

{simply our preferences, no criticism to anyone feeling differently}

1. nail polish
2. Barbies
3. pierced ears
4. TV
5. Disney
6. gluten {grin}

TBC…

=)

PS: check back tomorrow morning for the results of our ultrasound! It’s tonight at 7pm. {!!!}

10.23.11

Halfway! Today is 20 weeks… the approximate midway point. {YAY!}

I’m feeling great! {this is a commonly asked question} Aside from some mild nausea and fatigue in the first trimester, this has been a wonderfully easy pregnancy so far. Perhaps the fun part is over and it will start getting tough now. {grin}

FINALLY felt a kick! We officially have movement. {grin} What an amazing sensation… starting to notice Raspberry’s little sleep patterns.

Getting dressed is becoming increasingly tricky… I prefer my clothes to be well-fitting and tailored properly, especially since I am petite {5′}, and that’s just not possible anymore. Plus, it’s a strange feeling to be steadily growing out of everything I owned previously… but the excitement of a developing baby outweighs any potential concerns. I’ve been blessed with a pretty good selection of maternity clothes {from various sources}, and as we approach the 5-month mark I am finally getting to wear some of them!

=)

10.19.11

Got a stroller! We found the cutest Peg Perego Pliko P3, barely used, on Craigslist… in a cheerful, eye-catching color. It was a fantastic deal and we are so happy with it!

During the process of acquiring it we realized that a stroller will never fit in the trunk of my Beetle, even {unfortunately} the most slim of umbrella strollers. But we were able to fold this one up compactly and fit it in the backseat pretty easily. When it comes to VW’s, what more can we ask for?

The stroller is being stored in our coat closet for now. Getting it + the baby up and down a flight of stairs is going to be a fun challenge, I think!

10.12.11

So. I am 18 ½ weeks pregnant. {!!} At this early stage…

• We own 1 small yellow outfit, one cardboard baby book {appropriately titled “Hug Hug”}, one massive crib, one baby bottle, one stuffed monkey, two teething toys, two cases {?} of diapers, three irresistibly soft teddy bears, and nine pregnancy/childbirth books.
• I have had two prenatal visits, both with midwives – one at Piedmont GYN/OB in Ballantyne and one at Carolina Community Maternity Center in Fort Mill – both indicating that this pregnancy is textbook perfect {baruch HaShem}.
• Our ultrasound is less than two weeks away, on Monday the 24^th at 7pm {when we’ll find out if Raspberry is a pink berry or a blue berry, as they say}.
• Yes, I am “showing” and no, there haven’t been any strangers wanting to touch my belly. {grin}
• We are starting to shop for a stroller and carseat. TOO MANY CHOICES.
• Sadly, I have not felt any kicks yet. Apparently the berry is a calm, peaceful baby who enjoys sleeping and will rarely be whiny or fussy.
• Next year at this time, Raspberry will be 7 months old. Amazing!

=)

10.11.11

Raspberry will be born in 2012 when I am 25 {my first child}.
I was born in 1986 when my mother was 25 {her first child, a girl}.
My mother was born in 1961 when her mother was 24 {her first child, a girl}.
My maternal grandmother, of blessed memory, was born in 1937 when her mother was 17 {her first child, a girl}.

We notice two things from this analysis: 1) the trend of ‘getting-older-when-having-kids;’ and 2} the women in my family tend to have girls first. {grin}

=)

10.10.11

{happy} things recently:

-Raspberry is about 5 inches long!
-an afternoon spent with Aunt Laura {hug}… so sweet of her to take an interest in my pregnancy & visit my little home for the first time!
-the conclusion of our 6-week ethics series, with a special guest for the final one – my grandfather was here for our discussion on fair use & copyright {what an honor!}. These evenings have been educational + motivational… very enjoyable! A big thank you to everyone who participated & shared their insights with us.
-the opportunity to host Greg’s Aunt Julie & Uncle Jim {from NJ} for brunch and get to know them a little better. They came with a perfect gift – our first baby outfit!! Yellow, of course. {grin} We had a fantastic time with the Ellers and hope to visit them next summer {which would be Raspberry’s first road trip!}.
-a fun pregnancy research project with the help of my sisters. {wink} They made the most adorable snack for me – miniature muffins with raspberries in the center… a very appropriate {& tasty!} joke, because my nickname used to be “muffin,” and the baby is a raspberry. {grin} So creative!
-a kick-off to the new year with the ladies of Bella Torah… all the elements of a cozy evening: wine {sparkling pomegranate juice for me}, yummy snacks, & good discussion.

=)

10.7.11

Raspberry & I are observing Yom Kippur tonight and tomorrow. We will not be fasting, but we’ll spend the day with Greg in prayer, focusing on repentance and G-d’s mercy.

It’s been a tough week… Raspberry lost a great-grandmother Monday morning, without ever having the chance to meet her. As a family we have been participating in mourning my grandmother’s loss during this week of sitting shiva. So the year begins on a sorrowful note… but we thank G-d for the blessing of life – both the 78 years Helena Squicciarini spent on this earth and the new life growing inside me.

=)

9.28.11

Tonight begins our new year! {hug} to our friends and family… we wish you a sweet & prosperous year ahead.

{I am calling this the year of the raspberry}

=)

9.19.11

Went to my first childbirth class tonight! All about stretching and strength-building. This one is the first in a 3-part series at Presbyterian Hospital. It was a great workout! I came home full of renewed baby excitement and anticipation about the next few months.

Chris & Susannah gave us an adorable card which says “babies are a blessing from the L-rd… remember that at 3am” and I keep thinking what an important concept that is! I almost want to frame the card. {wink} Through all the little frustrations, annoyances, and struggles of raising children, isn’t it all about seeing the big picture? The gratefulness + love I feel now is what I want to hold on to as we face the challenges of becoming parents.

Note: have not felt my baby move yet… {sigh} but hoping it will happen soon!

=)

9.16.11

This was a week of books! I was given seven in the last few days from two generous ladies: my 7-months pregnant girlfriend Daneen Gimson {including the classic “What to Expect When You’re Expecting”} and my funny, hospitable friend Cindy Garner {finally, a baby name book! Yay!}. Have had to make a baby shelf on the bookcase because there are so many resources now… very happy to have new reading material!

Plus, I picked up a book from the library, recommended by yet another pregnant friend, called “Pushed: The Painful Truth About Childbirth and Modern Maternity Care.” Eek. Pushed will have you running as far {and as fast} from a hospital as you can. I finished it yesterday {quite the pageturner} and can’t wait to go over the information with Greg.

In other news, we’ve christened our baby Raspberry for the time being. Obviously, every baby needs a name, even if it’s just an interim name until birth. We picked this one for three – no, four – excellent reasons:

1. It’s cute and, contrary to popular opinion, unisex {fruits don’t have genders}.
2. A picture which inspired the first couple months of my pregnancy…
   
3. I’ve been craving raspberries, to the point where we’ve had boxes of fresh berries, raspberry yogurt, raspberry salad dressing, raspberry smoothies, caffeine-free raspberry tea, raspberry coffee cake, and healthy dairy free raspberry cheesecake. Oh, and I just got a nail polish called Razz-berry. So it’s kind of our baby theme. {grin}
4. According to the Scripture, children are “fruit of the womb.” So how appropriate!

Examples of use:

• This week, Raspberry is about the size of an apple.
• We are praying Raspberry will be a strong healthy baby.
• Raspberry attended the Ignite Charlotte event with me Tuesday night!

Having a name has really added personality to the baby. Basically, we’re loving this time in our lives and making it fun!

=)

9.12.11

A big question so far has been where to have the baby. I’ve tried to fully consider the options and talk them over with Greg so we could make the best, most informed decision about our baby’s birth.

There seem to be three major choices…

1)   Hospital {the traditional route}

Mums and I went on a “parent tour” at CMC Pineville {the former Mercy South} last Tuesday night. The maternity section of this hospital is absolutely beautiful. The rooms are more hotel than hospital, complete with private patios, DVD players, flat-screen TVs, Murphy beds {to hold an extra person}, Jacuzzi tubs, room service, and pretty + soothing décor. It’s a comfortable and appealing place, but my concerns are about the pressure to conform to hospital norms {for instance, the standard procedures after a birth, like vitamin K drops, erythromycin, and possible hepatitis shots for the baby}. I haven’t researched these procedures extensively, but I’m already hesitant about them.
However, it seems possible to enter the hospital prepared with a clear plan and not encounter any objections to our wishes.

2)   Birth Center {creative alternative}

Around the beginning of August I visited the Carolina Community Maternity Center in Fort Mill, SC. Although it looks like a normal business office from the outside, the center is cozy and well-stocked when you get inside. The women here were some of the friendliest I’ve met so far! Their practice allows you to choose a midwife, have personal appointments with her during the entire pregnancy, and then meet her at the center to deliver your baby. They are entirely geared toward natural births, using their skill + experience to help each woman meet this goal. I suppose the obvious potential drawback to delivering without a doctor present is “what if something goes wrong?” Of course the center is fully prepared {they do emergency transports to CMC Pineville if necessary}… but because this is my first baby, I have no idea what to expect! If it were a subsequent child, and I knew what the birth process was like, I think I’d be very happy using this center.
One of the biggest benefits is that the midwives have a close relationship with each of their clients, resulting in care + trust on both sides. And I love their natural approach! They have a fantastic track record of strong, healthy babies with minimal delivery problems.

3)   Home Birth {other end of the spectrum}

A home birth… is not for me. Not that I have anything against them! I think having a baby at home is terrific, and I admire the brave women who choose this option. But if you know me, you’d probably agree it’s not the right choice for me. {grin}

We still haven’t made a final decision… though there really isn’t a hurry to finalize anything yet anyway. I’ve called both places to ask a few questions, we’ve compared cost/insurance, and our families have shared their opinions {hospital, unanimously}. Thoughts? Advice?

=)

9.9.11

I went to the grocery store today, to pick up a few extra things for the weekend, and gleefully parked in the “Expectant Mothers” spot for the first time!

A bunch has happened this week, but I just haven’t made time to write about it yet. Probably Sunday morning I’ll do a catch-up post. Totally forgot to mention a week or so ago someone {my new friend Amelia} said I had ‘the pregnant glow’ {grin}… which I hope is true! I feel like the excitement alone should be radiating from me.

As this week draws to a close, I find myself in possession of diapers {already!}, adorably thoughtful gifts from two generous ladies – my MIL Jeannine Bartos and my dear friend Beverly Hergenreter. {We also now have two teething toys. At this rate the house will be filled long before the baby’s here!} {grin}

=)

9.5.11

Greg & I spent a delightful day together, with an important baby update – we got a crib!! The Martins, a family from Bella Torah & long-time friends of the Squicciarini’s, brought us one which they no longer need for their own children {thank you!}. So we are now the happy owners of a beautiful Bassett crib, and after assembling it this afternoon, have been marveling at the size + sturdiness thereof. It shouts “BABY” whenever we enter the room. {grin} I love it! Can almost picture our baby sleeping there…

=)

9.4.11

Last night’s ethical discussion centered around abortion, with some pretty tough questions. For example:

Ann, who suffered from bone marrow cancer, needed a transplant and found only one matching donor: her pregnant sister Leah. In order to perform the procedure without endangering Leah’s life, an abortion was needed. Whose life takes precedence?

Hard enough already. But then we personalized the example…

Julianna, who suffered from bone marrow cancer, needed a transplant and found only one matching donor: her pregnant sister Morgan. In order to perform the procedure without endangering Morgan’s life, an abortion was needed. Whose life takes precedence?

All I could think was how awful it would be to face a decision like that – to watch a sister die and know you could have saved her, or give up a precious baby… May we be preserved from such a heartbreaking situation.

=)