Well, I thought I’d put together a little post with answers and explanations, taken from the questions and comments I received in response to our baby announcement. (So much for the “this isn’t turning into a baby blog,” right? If you have no interest in our journey so far, you can just skip this post. I wouldn’t blame you. I’ve been there.)
In other news, you are really the sweetest people in the world. I think the baby post broke the comment record at NewlyWoodwards. And I kind of just want to print off all your kind words and frame them because they made me so happy. I’m a lucky gal to have all that extra support.
And I also checked out every book that you recommended from the library. So, I’ve got some reading to do. π (I’m kind of a over-researcher, so I’m just planning to read everything I can get my hands on for the time being.)
It’s really too bad for Baby Woodward that he or she will be living in a Bears household. The Bears didn’t even make it to the playoffs, for goodness sakes.
Anyhoo…Β
When did we find out?
We found out we were pregnant in October and kept it to ourselves until we were “sure.” To make “sure,” I purchased nearly every pregnancy test at the store. (Exaggerating. Slightly.)
The time period before we told family and friends was really overwhelming for me. Ryan was super supportive, but I’m an oversharer (surprise!), so keeping a secret this big was rough. Not to mention the early decisions that had to be made and I didn’t have anyone to bounce ideas off. But, we made it through.
After going to the doctor a few times, we felt more confident telling family and friends. We spilled the beans to our parents before Thanksgiving and started telling other friends and family members after Thanksgiving. I arbitrarily decided to wait to break the news on the blog/Facebook/Twitter until after the holidays. It gave me a good chance to tell as many people as possible in person/in Christmas cards/through phone calls.
How have I been feeling?
Tired. Like, for real. Ex-hausted. I know that every pregnant woman says she was tired, but, holy moley. I didn’t realize exactly how tired I’d be for the first 10 or 12 weeks. There were days that I wondered how I’d stay awake. Luckily, I was done with school and able to come directly home from work and lay around until I went to sleep. My husband is a very understanding man.
I’m usually a bit of a “go-er” and “do-er,” so I’m still getting used to the idea of slowing down and being okay with a little less productivity.
On the plus side, I didn’t have any real morning sickness and very little nausea, so I’m darn lucky.
And right now, I have some sort of a cold. And I’m not 100 percent used to not being able to drink a bottle of NyQuil when I’m sick. So, there’s that.
How did the family react to the news?
Everyone was very excited, of course. Nothing is more fun than breaking the news that a baby is on the way. Arizona Lainey nearly died of excitement, which would have really ruined the moment. She’s been waiting for a grandchild for years (way longer than would have been appropriate for her oldest daughter to have a child). Ryan’s parents were also thrilled to have another grandchild. Needless to say, this baby won’t be short on love.
As an aside, we purchased a great book for both sets of parents to break the news – That’s what grandparents are for by Arlene Uslander. I asked the author to sign the book with “You’d better practice reading this before your grandbaby is born in June.” (Isn’t it so cool that the author will sign the book?) I hope it will be a great keepsake for our parents and a good story for Baby Woodward.
Will we find out if it’s a boy or girl?
Yes. As long as baby cooperates. Four more weeks and we should know.
Have we talked about names?
Yes. But we are waiting until we know if it’s a boy or girl so we can narrow our disagreementsΒ choices. It will be a small miracle if we ever pick a name we agree on. We have vastly different ideas for appropriate names. For the record, this child will not be named after a bodybuilder if it’s a boy. π
What are we doing for the nursery?
Well, we’re planning to get a crib. That much is clear. π
Over the holidays, my parents and Ryan did move all the extra bedroom furniture out of the extra bedroom. So, we have an empty room, ready for baby.
Stay tuned on this one. I think we may end up with a crib.
We did decide to wait to make decisions on the nursery until we find out the sex of the baby. I have some ideas and lots of inspiration, which many of you noticed in my Pinterest boards. I also have a massive pull-down vintage school map that Ryan found for me on Craigslist. That will make an appearance somewhere.
How are the pugs taking it?
Franco didn’t even want a sister, and then Lola came around. He’s not sure what to think about another baby to suck away his attention. Luckily, a tired momma means lots of snuggle pug time. So, both pugs are a-okay with me being pregnant. And, my dad gives Franco extra love, too. So, all is well.
(Any tips for introducing babies to very spoiled dogs?)
So, that’s where we’re at.
What did I miss?
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fwiilson says
I love the “how I told the grandparents” story! That’s probably the part I am looking forward to the most if/when we start having kids of our own. So many good ideas. π
Nursery school
Jennifer says
Okay, I’m clearly behind. Big, big congratulations!!!! I feel you on the exhaustion. I was so not prepared for that! Sounds like you are 16ish weeks, which was about when I started to feel the upswing, so hopefully you will be feeling back to normal soon!
Lisa says
Congratulations! It’s a very exciting time (my first just turned one in Dec.).
I didn’t read through all your comments (sorry) but skimming them I didn’t see the book “Superbaby” – not what the title sounds like. I didn’t subscribe to all of it, but there is some good stuff in there I wish I had read earlier on.
Also, I did enjoy signing up for Baby Center’s newsletter during pregnancy – you’ll get a month by month blow of baby’s development. I am still signed up and like getting the baby/toddler info too.
Long comment I know! You have a good energy about you – or at least that is what comes through your blog. It will be a wonderful, miraculous journey for sure! Good luck and try to enjoy it!
miamihoney says
What the what! I had a busy week at work and missed the baby breaking news. So excited for you guys. Congrats! As a mom of one pretty amazing little one, I think being a Momma is the best thing ever…for reals. Good luck on your journey~
Lyndsey says
Congrats! Totally like the crib in the nursery idea.
Katy @ OurSimpleLoveStory says
I love the “how I told the grandparents” story! That’s probably the part I am looking forward to the most if/when we start having kids of our own. So many good ideas. π
Freckles Chick says
Just in case my comment in your baby announcement post gets lost amidst the thousands of other comments…….CONGRATULATIONS MY FRIEND!!!! Is it possible to get weepy b/c I’m so so so happy for you guys & we’ve never even met IRL?! My fingers are slippin’ & slidin’ all over the keyboard due to my big fat tears.
No joke: I’ve been way behind on my blogroll reading so I didn’t even know about your big news until yesterday when I saw you pin cribs on Pinterest. Ready for the weird part? I actually dreamed on TUESDAY night that you, Joi, & I were registering for baby stuff together. Our scanners weren;t working & we were really mad b/c we wanted to do a blog post about our “registry get-together”. Why was I still prego?! And where were our husbands?! So I guess you can say I had this instinct that there’s a bun in your oven.
Can’t wait to see the nursery (LOL @ “Well, we’re planning to get a crib.”)! Don’t worry, your energy will return soon hopefully. Happy & healthy months ahead to you.
Love ya girl!!
Emily says
Kim oh my gosh I’m freaking out!! How exciting for you guys!! I don’t have Internet right now and reading blogs on my phone can get annoying ha. I saw your awesomely sweet comment on Keri’s post about me π you’re too sweet. I miss reading your blog by the way π hopefully soon I’ll be back to blogging as catching up on baby W and crew
Chelsea @ {twotwentyone} says
I read something about the mom starting to ignore the dog(s) more before the baby comes so they are somewhat prepared to your lack of attention after the baby comes. It said to have the dad give attention to the dogs. This article also said to carry around a baby doll and play baby crying sounds before the baby comes so the dog(s) can get used to the sound.
A few friends have said that “The Happiest Baby on the Block” is a must-read.
Sara @ Russet Street Reno says
I wanted to nap while walking up the stairs to our bedroom in the first tri! It was redonk. So glad you are past that. It gets so much better, as long as you don’t get the dreaded ‘pregnancy headaches’….nothing seems to help mine. Sigh.
yeoldesandwichshoppeva says
I can’t wait to see how the nursery comes together. I’ve enjoyed looking through your inspiration boards on Pinterest!
You have my complete and totally sympathy with regards to the exhaustion in the first trimester. I’ve always been something of a night owl, but during my first trimester… I go to bed around 7pm. And getting anything done? Forget it. So, don’t beat yourself up. I know the lack of productivity can drive one crazy, but you have to remember that you have a new job that you work 24/7 right now in addition to your old job. You are busy growing a baby. If that means you need to take extra naps, then go for it!
I love the idea of the Grandparent books! Very sweet!
DecorandtheDog says
We were discussing baby names with one of my preggo friends on New Year’s Eve. I’m really a fan of Pickle or Popcorn. Thank you Moonshiners. Let me know if you need more help! I’m here for you!
Leigh says
So fun! Glad you are feeling well, other than the cold. I can’t imagine not being able to share…that would be so hard for me! Oh and I love the grandparent book/announcement idea!!
Erin @ Domestic Adventure says
“We may end up with a crib” You are seriously so funny. Love it! I am just so over the moon excited for you. Glad you are feeling so well! Ugh, and giving up several cups of coffee per day, that was crazy hard for me!
Anonymous says
Everyone already mentioned bring a blanket or item of the baby’s home for the dog to smell it, but also, if your dogs are especially sensitive, it may be wise to play a recording of a baby crying throughout the day. I am not yet a mother, but I plan to be someday. Well my Aussie is more on the sensitive side, but she loves our neighbors’ toddlers and kids, she is gentle with them. BUT the other day a baby cry came on the TV and she FREAKED out. So even though I know she is good around kids, the sound scared her. So it is something I will work on when I get preggo! Good luck and congrats!
Breen says
My hubby read to bring the dog/s outside and then all walk into the house together with baby. That way the dog/s know that this new person is part of the “pack”. Since that is how dog brains work in Packs. That is what we plan on doing in a few weeks. I’ll let you know how it works. π
daisy says
Glad you’re feeling strong, Kim. Take it one day at a time and enjoy that lil’ bundle growing inside of you. It’s truly a miracle.
Kat says
Hooray! So excited for you, Kim!
Amanda @ Serenity Now says
So exciting!! π Decorating is going to be a blast! I don’t know if anyone recommended them yet, but the Babywise books were a lifesaver for me. My girls learned to sleep through the night while many of my friends were still up two or three times a night with toddlers. So something was working there. π
Suzanne says
I’m so happy for you Kim! And I feel like a jerk for breaking this news, but your “cold” might just be pregnancy and it might stick around the whole time. My nose has never run as much as when I was knocked up. BUT there are definitely still things you can take when pregnant so don’t suffer too much without asking your doctor!
I can’t WAIT to see what you do with the nursery!
Emily says
It seems like babies are in the blog water. So many bloggers seem to be expecting. I would love to see what you end up doing with the nursery and hear about all the prep. All of the info will likely come in handy in the distant future. π
Lynne says
KIM! I am so happy for you!!! Congrats to you and Ryan! You both are going to make fabulous parents.
I thought of you both the other day when Rob and I went to Venice beach wondering if you would name your baby Arnold or Arnolinda. π
Just kidding.
Much love!
Lynne
Mrs. Chic says
I’m so thrilled for you!! I was just in your shoes this time last year!! My advice get penalty of rest, sleep when you wish, veg when you wish – and hopefully you’ll regain your energy soon. Most of all enjoy this special time with your husband π Congrats again π
Biz says
We were advised to bring home something the baby slept in at the hospital for the dogs to sniff before bringing baby home. Well we have 2 dogs 65 & 75 lbs and in the madness of being at the hospital we forgot to bring anything home pre-baby. The good news is that they didn’t really react at all. They were a little curious, but not overly…the smaller dog acted as a protector…laying near her, but not bothering her. I think, honestly, that because the dogs are with you during your pregnancy they smell the change and notice the change so they know. Also my suggestions is NOT to read everything. It’ll freak you out! I started reading what to expect when you are expecting and quit 1/4 in. I seriously just listened to my body and come the 2nd trimester I was past the sleepiness and back to being super active! I mean for crying out loud I had to move across the country during the 3rd trimester and I was still pretty active then too! So just listen to your body and not people…everyone has a different experience!
Congratulations!
Biz
Farming Mama says
I read a couple of books about introducing dogs to baby, one I bought and although I wouldn’t recommend buying it, reading it from the library couldn’t hurt, right? π It was there’s a baby in the house, preparing your dog for the arrival of your child. We have 3 medium/large dogs, so I was definitely pretty unsure how they would take it, especially my super attached rescue. They are all doing fine, and although my rescue would rather have a bit of separation, the other two are totally fine being the ‘baby’ as M piles blankets on top of them, etc… pretty cute π Good luck, I’m sure by the time baby W comes you & the pugs will be ready π
katy
Ashley@AttemptsAtDomestication says
How exciting! Can’t wait to see what you do with the nursery! And the book with the author’s signature was such a sweet idea. I love it!
Melissa says
Your dogs are going to love the baby! We have a very spoiled toy poodle, and what we did seemed to work well. My dad had been keeping her while we were at the hospital, so Ryan (my husband) met him at our house to get Rose (our dog) back from him on the morning we were coming home from the hospital. Ryan took a blanket that had been wrapped around Logan (our baby girl) at the hospital, and he gave it to Rose to sniff for a while. Then, when we brought Logan home, we sat her in her car seat on the floor and let Rose sniff around a bit. After that, Rose was good! She’s a great puppy sister! π Can’t wait to see what you do with the nursery!
Meredith says
I’m not sure we’ve ever discussed this, but have I told you all my mom’s family is from Green Bay? You’ve got one die hard Packers fan here, but I hope you won’t hold it against me! π
This might be too personal, so feel free not to answer, but did you guys plan or try to get pregnant for very long before it happened? You were so good at keeping the baby talk to a minimum that it just made me wonder!
Congratulations again – and good luck with the pups. I’m sure any baby that comes from you two will be adored by your doggies.
Meredith @ Welcome to Heardmont
Liz @ It's Great To Be Home says
I can’t wait for you to find out what you’re having – it was such a surprising and exciting moment for us. And I agree with the others, the tiredness and ickiness definitely goes away! At 22 weeks I’m feeling amazing, although I must admit that the inability to take drugs is still a major bummer. π As well as lunch meat – who knew how much I would crave a sandwich? (I know you can heat the meat but that’s just not the same.) And I love the way you told the grandparents!!! That must have been such a thrill for them. Congrats again to the Woodwards!
Jessica @ This Blessed Life says
I somehow missed this news the first time around – but OH MY WORD CONGRATULATIONS!! So, so happy for you. As for the tiredness – I used to come home from teaching at 3, take a 2-3 hour nap, then sometimes go to bed at 8:30, no kidding. haha The tiredness does get a little easier as you go on. π
Mrs. Adventure says
I know I’ve said it once… but I’m so darn excited for you two!
Jordan@the2seasons says
Congrats again you must be thrilled. Be safe going down your stairs. I fell down our hardwood stairs and have a permanent dent. Ouch. Yay so excited for your nursery!!
Rita Templeton says
I am just so excited for you guys! (And envious because I’m quite positive that Baby W will have THE most gorgeous nursery in the QC!) I just got my ultrasound date yesterday – so on the 26th of this month, we get to find out the sex (as long as baby cooperates). Between the ownership of pugs, and now the impending same-aged babies, there’s no reason for us not to arrange a playdate in the future! π
*claire* says
aww yay! that room looks perfect for a future nursery!
Leigh @ Kesler Expressler says
We’re not too worried about our dog and the new baby — mainly because he’s already adjusted to 2 new cats in his lifetime and he’s been around infants before. He just sniffed and then was like “ok, whatever”.
I think as we start to get closer, we’ll start reducing the attention that all the animals get and work on not being so rigid/predictable with their feeding times.
I’ll have to go back and look through your original posts to see what people recommended reading. I haven’t done much pregnancy reading, but need to start looking at newborn/infant care.
Also, way jealous of your lack of morning sickness – though the exhaustion is crazy, isn’t it?
longbrakeliving says
I love this!
The biggest thing I read about introducing dogs to babies, is to make sure you bring the baby home to the dog. We had someone come and take our dog to their house when we had Colton, so we just made she she brought our dog back before we brought Colton home. Prior to coming home, Hubby brought Glacier a blanket Colton had used so she could get used to how he smelled. I have no idea if it helped, but we tried it. The good thing is, babies just kind of lay around for awhile, so dogs have a chance to get used to another person while they aren’t doing more than sleeping, eating and crying. Our dog responded really well and is super tolerant. The other day, I caught Colton poking her in the eye going, “eye, eye, EYE!” And the dog just laid there.
I also read that because dogs have such short memories, they will get used to the change in the amount of attention they get, and will eventually forget their spoiled days.
Mrs. Wayfairer says
This was years ago, but worked for me…I brought the new baby home, stripped him down, laid him on my bed and had Smokey, the dog, give him the once over. It worked for us in her accepting a new one in an only dog household. I say it worked as Smokey then took on the role of protector, sleeping under the crib…and during the days, when he would start to stir from a nap, Smokey would come get me, like Lassie getting Timmie or Momma! Congratulations!