The Journey to Parenting

Derek and I are embarking on the wonderful journey of parenthood. We found out that we were expecting, technically on July 8th. It was quite some time ago. We were home in Milwaukee for our whirlwind trip of weddings and I was a few days late. I decided to take a home test just to see if maybe by some chance we were and there it was almost immediately the positive sign. We're pregnant!

We weren't "technically" trying at the time, just using the "whatever happens, happens, method." However, we were surprised at how quickly it did happen (the first month). I had my first appointment with the OB on August 5th. It was very exciting to get the confirmation that yes, for sure, we are pregnant. But, I was quite disappointed and a little nervous that the doctor could not hear the heart beat. She assured me that everything was fine and it was still early (only about 8 weeks pregnant at the time), so she scheduled a sonnogram for the following week.

We had our first sonnogram on August 13th and that was the most amazing thing I have ever seen. You could see the little arms and legs of the baby and he/she moved around. I, of course, shed a tear or two. :-) It was one of the most wonderful experiences.

We headed to Milwaukee for that weekend for Kugeestock (see previous post), where, I did not get to take part in all the debauchery of the weekend, but I didn't mind at all. We told my parents that Friday night when we went out to dinner and they both had classic reactions. My mom couldn't decide if she wanted to laugh or cry, so she did both. My dad just beamed. And then they called everyone. It was very cool.

So, now the word it out. We are having a baby!

I have been pretty lucky so far. I had mid-morning sickness, around 9:30am I wouldn't feel so good. But, I have never thrown up at all, so that has been a blessing. I am tired, but I don't have any weird cravings (at least not yet). I still get to play softball and workout in a reasonable sense. I have been told that I cannot do a triathlon this fall. :-( But, it is a sacrafice I am willing to give up, besides, I don't think I could get out of bed for a 5am swim right now anyway.

We are running the range of emotions. We are so excited, but scared, nervous, anxious, overwhelmed. Everything you can feel at a time like this we are feeling.

I am officially 11 weeks along at this point. Clothes are just starting to get tight, but still not too bad. I am just so excited and I don't think I can be patient and wait until March to meet this little one.

We are still torn about finding out the sex of the baby. Derek really wants to know, but I don't think I do. He is leaving the decision up to me (smart dad already) so I think we will keep it a surprise.

I will be sure to post and update periodically to let you know how we are doing. And, if any of you parents out there have advice I would appreciate a comment, or an email. We can surely use it!