15 weeks

Well it's getting a little bit harder to conceal this ever expanding waistline of mine. Although I can still make my pants work with my belly band and loose shirts, I am not sure how much longer that will last. I still cannot get over what a huge responsibility God has bestowed upon Nick and myself. He has blessed us with two humans at the same time. When I begin stressing over having two at one time, I remind myself that He never gives us more than we can handle and He has special plans for these babies. When I remember this, I become so excited. I imagine what they are going to be like. My daily prayer is that Nick and I set an example for them and that they will grow to know and love Jesus. We are beyond thankful and beyond blessed.

What's going on with the Job babies?

They are the size of a navel orange.

A very fine hair called lanugo is growing all over your sweet baby's body. It's purpose is to protect the baby from your amniotic fluid and typically is gone before delivery. If born preterm, and occasionally those born at term, will still have some lanugo in place.

Some babies begin sucking their thumbs this week! Personally, I was a thumb sucker until I was 5 :/


What's going on with mommy?

You may experience a burst of energy this week. If that is the case, lucky you! Put your energy to good use – start thinking about cribs, mattresses, what you need/want to register for, where the baby (babies) will sleep etc.

This has been a challenging week for this mommy. As I have said before, I have had bouts of nausea but have not gotten sick. Well that changed this week. For the last few nights, every time I lay down, I begin to feel everything come up and cannot get to the bathroom fast enough. Sweet Nick has placed the trash can at my bedside the last few nights. I can't complain too much since I have been blessed up to this point but it is not very much fun and has turned me off certain places to eat. I keep reminding myself that this is a temporary situation!!!!




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14 weeks!!!

Wow. Time is going surprisingly fast! 14 weeks. I still cannot believe that I am truly pregnant. It feels more real every day as I look down at my little belly. I feel so blessed that God has given Nick and I the incredible responsibility of two little ones. What an answer to many, many prayers. Through all the heartbreak and trying times, I never imagined this would really happen. I always wanted it to, but I did not know His plan for me. I am truly grateful each and every day.

What's going on with the Job babies?

Babies are the size of a lemon.

The eyes have moved to the front of the face and the ears have moved from the neck to the side of the head.

The mouth can now turn into a frown or a smile :) and they are practicing their sucking and swallowing skills. Before long they will be sucking their thumb!

The esophagus, pharynx, windpipe and vocal cords are now in their appropriate spots. They may not be using them quite yet, but they will utilize them - mostly at night when mommy and daddy want to sleep ;)


What's going on with mommy?

The uterus is beginning to rise above the pubic bone. You may notice at your prenatal appointments, your health care provider measures from your pubic bone to the top of your uterus ( also known was the fundus). The measurement they take typically corresponds with the gestational age of your baby. For example, this week your fundal height should be 14 if you are 14 weeks. Being that I am pregnant with twins, this does not apply to me. I always measure bigger.

Congestion may rear it's ugly head at this point. Due to the increase in progesterone, your mucous membranes may swell causing you to be congested. Unfortunately there is no meds for this other than to keep your nasal passage from becoming too dry. You may apply Vaseline to each nostril and use a humidifier to help ease the stuffiness. Remember, antihistamine nasal sprays are not safe while prego! I've been lucky in that if I blow my nose, I am good for a while.




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Lucky # 13

Most people don't like the number 13. To be completely honest, it's not my favorite number either, but with that being said, I also love it. It was my Poppie's favorite number as well as his lucky number. For that reason, I love it. This is a lucky week because I am now in the 2nd trimester and my chance of miscarriage decreases dramatically. My heart is happy although I am still nervous, scared, anxious etc. My goal right now is to try and give these feelings to God - although I have truly struggled with this. I know that He can take all of these negative feelings away from me, yet I have been unable to completely release all of these negative emotions. Only He knows the ultimate plan for me and these sweet babies and I do have 100% faith in that. I know that whatever happens, His plan is so much greater than mine.

What's going on with the Job babies?

Babies are the size of a peach

The baby (babies) measure 2.5-4 inches long.

The head is half of the body length due to the rapid growth of the brain!!! Wow!

The organs are in overdrive this week. The liver is making bile, the kidneys are carrying away waste products, and the pancreas is pumping out insulin. The intestines are now in the body and no longer hanging out in the umbilical cord ( hooray for more room!)

What's going on with mommy?

Many people refer to the second trimester as the "honeymoon phase" of pregnancy. Usually there is a decrease in nausea, constipation and potty breaks. For me- I am still a little nauseated ( although it has gotten better), my constipation is still in full force and I'm still frequenting the ladies room. I am ready for the honeymoon phase to hit me! Bring it!!!

Some women may now have a sudden surge of energy. I have been one of the lucky ladies whose energy levels have not wained despite being pregnant. I am sure it will hit me at some point but for now, I'm feeling energetic!

You may notice your waistline starting to thicken. I have noticed this for sure. I bought a belly band at Target and it has been a lifesaver. You put it on over your unbuttoned pants and it allows you to continue to wear non maternity clothes. Luckily I am a woman who hates tight clothes and most of my things are flowy and have been working for me. :)








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Week 12!!! News is out!!!

Well it was bound to come out sooner or later, although I am sure that rumors were running rampant at work. I went back to work this week and one person whispered " congratulations" to me as I was walking to the board to get my assignments. Then later that day, I had a HORRIBLE migraine and when someone offered me ibuprofen, I told them I couldn't have it. When you work in labor and delivery, that is a major red flag that you are pregnant. I wanted to wait a while longer before telling people, but I decided that now was as good a time as ever :). I have the best coworkers. Some were surprised and I could tell that some had a pretty good feeling that we were pregnant. They have been by my side from day one when I chose to open up about our struggles with fertility. I will forever be grateful for their love, support, hugs, and prayers. I truly am blessed.

What is going on with the Job babies?

Babies are growing! They are the size of a plum!

In fact, the babies are now looking more and more like a miniature person! All of their major body structures have formed. Even though everything is formed, it is too early to know the gender. That being said, sometimes you can tell ;). I had a friend at work take a peek and although one baby was unclear, it definitely looks like we've got one boy in there :)

What's going on with mommy?

You may notice that your nausea is subsiding and your appetite is returning. I wish I was one of these people but I'm not. I am still pretty nauseated from time to time although the bouts are spacing out. When I get a wave, it's so bad, but I have still been blessed with just nausea and no vomiting.

Remember that as your appetite increases, you only need to add an additional 300 calories to your diet. A healthy example of this would be an apple with peanut butter, cheese and crackers, a protein bar etc. Its easy to think, " oh I'm eating for two" but don't get sucked in by this. It will make it so much harder to loose the weight postpartum. That being said, if you're pregnant with twins or higher order multiples, you need to up your calorie intake to at least 600+ calories a day. The more weight that you gain at the beginning, the more your babies will weigh when they are born- especially since there is an increased rate of preterm labor with multiples. Food for thought!

Here is a picture of a book where I get my multiples information. I absolutely love it and recommend it to anyone having multiples!







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11 weeks

We got released from Dr. P this week. What a bittersweet feeling. I am so excited to be in Dr. G's care now, but if it wasn't for Dr. P and his staff, we would not be where we are today. As a thank you to them, we bought a beautiful bouquet of flowers for the office. During my last sonogram, they made us a video of the babies and their hearts beating. I feel so blessed that we have this keepsake. I never want to forget everything that we have been through.

The good news is that the hemorrhage is resolving and Dr. G said that I can go back to work next week. I'm sure more bed rest is in my future but I am hoping and praying that it is far far far away from now. I am ready to get back into my groove!

This week my mom was in California for my Nana's 80th birthday. As much as Nick and I would have loved to be there, I am on bed rest and therefore, cannot travel. We decided that since my mom was going to be in town and we have this great thing called FaceTime, we would tell our family out west. Nick put together a really cool video montage of pictures of us through the years and then at the end he added the video that Dr. P's office had given us. We face timed with my nana and the look on her face was priceless!!! It took her a minute to figure out that there are two!!!! She cried, along with the rest of the family. These kiddos will be her first great grandchildren.

What's going on with the Job babies?

Babies are the size of a lime!!! Is it bad that that makes me want a margarita? Soon enough!!!!

Skin has been forming for a while, but now the babies are beginning to form fingernails and toenails. I think that means it's time for mommy to get a mani/pedi!!!

The babies heartbeats can now be detected by a fetal Doppler although it's good to keep in mind that it may be difficult to hear due to the babies position inside mommy.

What's going on with mommy?

Hopefully by now, all mommies have had their first prenatal appointment. Mine is next week due to being followed by my RE up to this point, but most moms see their health care provider between 8 and 12 weeks. The sooner the better!

Make sure that you are getting enough vitamin c! It helps the baby develop healthy bones and teeth. Of course we all think of oranges when it comes to vitamin c, but other good sources include broccoli, papaya and strawberries.






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10 weeks!!!

I'm still on bed rest but our doctors appointment this week was promising. It looks like the hemorrhage is resolving - well it hasn't gotten bigger. Dr. G said that depending on my sono next week, I may be able to go back to work. I am sure people are starting to guess that something is going on. A few people have texted me and I have been very vague in my responses. I am just trying to protect myself in case something happens. You never know but I am trying to be cautious. Anything can happen at any point and I realize that. I guess I am just scared.

What's going on with the Job babies?

The babies are the size of prunes. This mommy has been eating them on a daily basis in hopes of having a bowel movement. All of the progesterone I am on, as well as the placentas ( which are also making progesterone) have made me extremely constipated. TMI - sorry!

The twins are developing eyelids. I hope they get their daddy's eyebrows and their mommy's eyelashes :)

Their ears are taking shape this week and they are developing tooth buds. By the time they are born they will have 20 baby teeth waiting to pop out!


What's going on with mommy?

I've mentioned my coffee habit before, but I just want to remind you guys that caffeine should be eliminated if not majorly reduced while pregnant. Caffeine can dehydrate you and in turn your baby. Remember that caffeine is hidden in things such as tea, chocolate, chocolate milk and sodas. If you are like me and have to have your morning cup of joe, make sure you compensate by drinking extra water. Personally, I love my water room temperature. I wasn't much of a water drinker prior to pregnancy but I have really enjoyed water since getting pregnant. If you know me, this is a shocker!!!!

Your heart now begins to pump more blood through your veins. The extra volume is necessary to provide blood to the uterus and to the placenta. Due to this increase in circulation, it is common to get varicose veins ( yuck - I know). You can reduce the likelihood of developing these by walking daily, not sitting with your legs crossed, lying on your left side and elevating your legs whenever possible. I am a leg crosser and as much as I am trying to kick this habit - it hasn't been easy! Here's to better circulation and no varicose veins! Ps: the varicose veins typically resolve after delivery ;)




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Week # 9

What's going on with the Job babies?

Babies are the size of a green olive!

Whoo-hoo!!! The babies are no longer referred to as an embryo but are now considered to be a fetus!

The tadpole appearance is coming to an end. The tail is gone and the trunk has gotten longer. Also, the arms and the legs are extending by the minute!!!

The babies are now moving a lot more and may even respond to stimuli outside mommy's body such as light and noise.

What's going on with mommy?


Have you noticed a crazy change in your breasts lately? I've never been one who has had sensitive breasts but pregnancy has changed that!!! I never knew one body part could be so sore or sensitive! You may also notice that your areolas are getting darker and larger. This is all in preparation for Breastfeeding your sweet baby, or in my case, babies!

Exercise is a critical component of pregnancy. It makes your delivery easier and it can ward off things such as gestational diabetes and gestational hypertension. Walking, swimming and yoga are all excellent sources of exercise. Make sure when you do exercise that you stay well hydrated and that you don't let your heart rate get too high. This is not a time to try to diet and loose weight. Always check with your health care provider before starting any new routine.

I'm hoping to be able to get back to my walking and prenatal yoga routine once I am off bed rest. Prayers are being said that this hemorrhage resolves soon and that these sweet babies continue to thrive.



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8 weeks!

Last week when went to see Dr. P, they noticed that I had a sub chorionic hemorrhage. No one seem too concerned since I had not had any bleeding or cramping. They mentioned it and I didn't really think too much of it. Fast forward to this week and things have changed. I was told that the hemorrhage had doubled in size. When Dr. G found out, he placed me on bed rest. Thankfully I still have had no bleeding or cramping, but staying down is harder than it sounds. Especially when no one really knows I'm pregnant.

What's going on with the Job babies?

Babies are the size of a raspberry!

This week, if you look very closely, you will see the babies upper lip, tongue, tip of the nose, and eyelids. That is so wild!

The babies are starting to look less like tadpoles. Their limbs are growing tiny webbed fingers and toes and the tadpole tail is disappearing.

Their intestines are forming! Some of the intestines live in the umbilical cord because there isn't enough room in the abdomen yet. In about a month, all the intestines will move back inside.

If you could touch the babies right now, they would respond! The nervous system and muscles are now talking to each other!!!

The genitals have started to develop; however, it is still too early to tell the gender.

What's going on with mom?

If you haven't already, schedule a prenatal appointment. It is so important to get good prenatal care. Nick and I have been seeing Dr. P but will soon be turned over to Dr. G!!!

Do you research when looking for a OBGYN/ midwife/ nurse practitioner - or whomever you choose to see. As my mom pointed out, they are the first person who gets to hold your baby (babies.). You want to make sure that it is someone you are comfortable with and that you trust. I feel very blessed to work in this profession and I have an unfair advantage, but do google searches and read reviews. Talk to your friends and find out who had good experiences and who didn't. What they liked and what they didn't. Feel free to make several appointments and "interview" your potential care provider. This is a very special time in your life and you deserve the best!




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Week 7

I love getting to go to Dr. P every Monday and see the babies. It is something that Nick and I really look forward to. I've never been a huge fan of Monday ( I much prefer Friday) but I now find myself anxiously awaiting Monday!

What is going on with the Job babies?

Babies are the size of a blueberry!!!

The neural tube has closed and now the brain is the grabbing all the attention! It will soon be dividing into the forebrain, midbrain and hindbrain.

The babies now have little buds that will form into their arms and legs. Pretty soon the brain and limbs will begin to talk to each other and the babies will be kicking and punching!

What's going on with mommy?

At this point, your bladder will be making you friends with your bathroom so invest in some good toilet paper!!! I have definitely stepped up the bathroom visits over the last week. I told Nick we should buy stock in Cotonelle!

Smells may be getting to you about this time. For me, I can smell things from a mile away, and there are some smells that repulse me. For example, chicken. Earlier this week I made chicken in the crock pot and threw the entire thing out!!! Nick did not get it but I couldn't even stand to look at it. I'm praying this passes because chicken is a staple in the Job house.

Caffeine is something you are supposed to cut back on ( actually they recommend no caffeine as it can increase your risk of miscarriage) and I have tried to do this but man alive am I struggling!!! I have been drinking coffee since I was 11 or 12 years old. My mom and nana would doctor it up so I am sure there was more cream and sugar than coffee but my addiction started early. I have been trying to order a half caff latte at Starbucks but it's not cutting it. By noon I have a migraine and can barely function. Back to my double tall skinny vanilla latte I go! With that being said, I have cut out my diet coke habit to compensate. Water and crystal light are my new essentials :)




Joyfully,
Tiffany


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6 weeks and BIG news!

At 6 weeks we went to Dr. P for our first sonogram. Nick and I were uber excited and when we found out there were two - we were surprised and elated!!!! Wow - double the blessing!!!!

What's going on with baby Jobs???

Babies are the size of a sweet pea!!!

Their hearts begin to beat this week! We cannot wait to hear the sweet sound :)

The neural tube starts to close over what will become your baby's spinal cord.

The baby looks like a tadpole at this point but there are folds of tissue developing that will eventually become the baby's chin, cheeks, and jaw.

Eye buds are forming!

Lung tubes are turning into pouches.


What's going on with mommy?

A woman's breasts become tender around this point. This is due to increased blood flow as your body is already preparing itself for Breastfeeding. I for one have noticed this change. A little uncomfortable but not terrible!

Progesterone increases at this point and women may begin to experience constipation. To avoid constipation, try exercising regularly, drinking a lot of water, and eating a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Morning sickness ( or all day/night sickness) starts to rear it's ugly head. This is due to the production of HCG. To ease nausea, try eating frequent, small meals, eating less spicy and fatty foods, and take your prenatal when you notice you feel the least nauseated. I feel lucky that my nausea is just that - nausea. I'm praying I don't actually get sick!




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Week 5

Here is what is going on with baby Job right now:

Baby Job is the size of a sesame seed and is about 0.1 inches long.

The placenta and umbilical cord are working hard. They are supplying all kinds of important things to baby Job including oxygen, amino acids, fats and sugars.

The layers of cells and nutrients are beginning to form the neural tube, which will become baby Job's brain and spine.

Another vital tube of cells is forming that in about 6 weeks will be baby Job's heart! In fact, the heart tube is already pumping with sporadic pumps that will grow more regular as the weeks go by.

What's going on with mom:

It's important to get at least 400 micrograms of folic acid every day. I have been on a prenatal and an additional folic acid supplement for well over a year!

Emotions, emotions, emotions!!! At this point hormones are in full swing! I may be one of the few who has been pretty normal so far. Elated would be how I am feeling with twinges of nausea all day, but I secretly like it. It reminds me that there is something going on in there!

Menstrual like cramps and lower backaches are common.

Obviously, cut out any harmful habits such as drinking, smoking, or using drugs. Now is the time to treat your body right!!!



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4 weeks

Whoo-hoo!!! This is when Nick and I both peed on a stick and guess which one was positive!!! We are stoked!!!!

Here is what's going on with baby Job right now:

He or she is the size of a poppyseed
By the end of this week, the embryo ( as a baby is called right now) measures around 0.04 inch, or 1 mm.

What's going on with mommy:

Pregnancy has begun! It starts when the fertilized egg takes root in the wall of the uterus. The egg divides into layers of cells making it an embryo. These cell layers will grow into specialized parts of the baby's body, such as the nervous system, skeleton, muscles and organs. The placenta and umbilical cord are taking shape. These will connect the embryo to mommy's circulatory system. Amniotic fluid is gathering around the embryo like a pillowy cloud!

This is just amazing to me. God sure knew what he was doing and each and every baby is a true miracle.


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Warning! I'm about to post - a lot!!!

This has been quite the experience so far and I don't want to forget anything so I am going to post about my pregnancy week by week. I'm hoping that this will serve as a mini baby book for the twins! Plus, there have been many ups and downs along the way.

My hope is that once I have caught up to where we are now, I will have more of a daily plan. I'd like to post Monday through Friday and not always about the twins! I want to mix it up a bit. So sit back and enjoy :)


Joyfully,
Tiffany


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