Happy New Year!!!

2010 has been an awesome year for the Elliott family. Some of the highlights include:

Celebrating our 1 year wedding anniversary
Giving birth to our son Hudson Ray
Witnessing Jessie marry the man of her dreams (we love you Brandon and your family)
Selling my car.....goodbye Eclipse
Buying a new car......hello Endeavor SUV
Selling Jeremy's first home on Portland Street
Buying our first home together in Battlefield, MO
Witnessing my good friend Amanda Dempsey marry Aaron Pearson and Amanda get her new job at Cowden as a special education teacher
Celebrating the births of many friend's babies......Emma Holstein (Maria/Josh), Braelyn York (Kailey/Michael), Eva Davied (Laura/Aaron), Cannon Massey (Casey/Matthew), Jackson Butrick (Alysia/Curtis), and Jasper Kimmons(Melissa/Billy)
Celebrated the engagement of my best friend Megan Westrich to Blake Pinkerton
Celebrated both of my parent's 50th birthdays
Celebrated mom's 2nd retirment to watch Hudson full-time (you are such a blessing mom)
Getting to see ALL of Jeremy's family for Thanksgiving

These are just a few of the highlights. Thankful for all of the blessings this year and praying 2011 will be just as great.

Our new place is.....

well wonderful. We love it so much and are finally getting settled in. I still have about 5 boxes to open and put away. Addie loves her new backyard and we love all of the extra space we now have. We have wonderful neighbors and a quiet neighborhood that will be perfect to raise our son in. We look forwarding to having all of our family and friends into our home soon.

May each of you have a wonderful holiday!!

4 month shots and a new home

Hudson has his 4 month checkup and shots on Wednesday. He weighed 19.2 lbs and was 25 and 1/4 inches long. 95th in weight and 50th percentile in length. He is a growing boy. This week he learned to completely roll himself over on his own from his back to his tummy and he has cut two of his bottom front teeth. He did well with his shots. They didn't make him overly fussy which was nice. He is growing and changing everyday. He is very vocal and loves to smile and talk to anyone that will listen. We feel so blessed by our sweet boy!!

We are moving into our new home today. We close at 1pm and will do most of the moving today because Saturday is suppose to be very cold and rainy....not good moving weather! We have appreciated the time at my parents so much and they have been so helpful with providing extra care to Hudson, meals, groceries, and doing our laundry each day. Thank you mom and dad!!! BUT we are super excited to have our own place that we can call home and that Hudson will grow up in. I will post pictures of the house once we get moved in.

First Cold

Hudson is sick for the first time in his life.....I am glad he waited to do it until he was 4 months old. We were suppose to have his 4 month checkup and shots on Tuesday but that didn't happen. We have rescheduled for this coming Wednesday.

Hudson has had a stuffy nose and a cough for the past 3 or 4 days. Mommy, daddy, and Mimi all have a little bit of a cold now too thanks to our little guy.

He has been pretty good considering he doesn't feel well. He has just been a tad bit more fussy during the day and not sleeping as well at night. I think he is on the mend though after saline drops in his nose and a humidifer in his room to help him feel better.

We are looking forward to him getting back to his old self where he is smiley and talkative. I know this is just one of many times that Hudson will be sick, but I hate it for him because I feel so helpless!

Move 1

We have officially moved out of our house on Portland Street. It has been a great house for Jeremy for the past 4 years, me for the past 2 years or so, and a good 3 months for Hudson. It is the first house we lived in as a married couple but it was ultimately Jeremy's house so we are excited to have our new home shortly.

We are temporarily living with my parents for the next 3.5 weeks......thank you mom and dad for letting us be a burden on you and Sophie girl. We feel so blessed to have a nice place to stay while we wait to close on our house.

We will post pictures of the new place once we have moved in. The big day is December 10th!!

Not feeling so good

On Monday night, Hudson got Jeremy and I up more than normal. He went to bed at 830pm and got up at midnight which was only 3.5 hours of sleep. He typically sleeps 5-6 hours then wakes up to eat but we didn't think much about it. Then he woke again at 4am and ate and was still fussy and upset. Jerm stayed up with him and I tried to go back to sleep but that didn't really happen.

Then Tuesday my mom said he was a little fussy in the morning but took a 2 hr nap so I thought he was probably just tired. In the afternoon when work was almost over, my mom called saying Hudson had been crying for an hour and a half and wouldn't take a bottle. She got a doctor's appointment and off we went. The doctor checked his ears, in his mouth, and asked us about his reflux. Come to find out......his reflux has gotten worse because he is bigger and we hadn't increased his medicine YET.

We got a new refill for his reflux medicine and he slept great last night. We are hoping this helps his tummy, and throat. It makes since that he didn't want to eat, suck on his paci, or lay flat on his back when his throat was probably on fire.....poor guy! He was talking up a storm this morning and happy as can be. I am sure glad he is feeling better.

MSU Football Game

Just a few pictures from the football game.......Hudson loves being outside!!

3 Months Old

Hudson, sweet boy, you are now 3 months old. You continue to change and grow with every day. You love to smile and laugh. You almost always smile back when someone smiles at you. You are the happiest in the mornings when you sit and talk to your animals in your bouncer. You are becoming more vocal and you like the give-and-take conversations you have with adults. You really like when people sing to you. This often makes you laugh out loud. You pull your arms up to your face when you get really tickled or excited about something.

Some of your favorite things at this point in your life include being outside, sitting in your bouncer or swing, and laying on your back on the bed while looking at your toys. One thing that has changed is you are not such a big fan of your car seat anymore. You often cry when we first place you in it but you calm down once the car gets moving. You have been to three MSU football games now and are going to your first basketball game today.

You are growing quick and sleeping even better. You sleep anywhere between 4-9 hours before you wake to eat. You are currently on reflux medicine and we think that may be contributing to your sleeping patterns but are not completely sure. You nap usually about three times a day. A couple short (30 minute) naps and one longer nap (1-3 hours). Your reflux seems to be getting better now that you are on medicine. You spit up much less and cry less when you burp so we think it is helping.

You are still eating about the same. You currently take 5 ounces about every 2.5-3 hours during the day. We think you are approximately 25 or 26 inches long and around 17 pounds. You are still so strong and can hold your head up all by yourself but we still support it often.

Your eyes have not changed yet. They are still a dark blue/grayish color. We would love for them to stay that color. Mommy has brown eyes and daddy has hazel so that would be neat!!

Your next doctor's appointment is on November 30th (1 day after daddy's 32nd birthday). You will be 4 months then and get your next round of shots. The doctor will also check your growth and answer all of mommy's questions.

Mommy has been back to work now for a month and misses you everyday but knows that Mimi is taking great care of you. Mommy loves getting off work and driving to come get you. It is one of her favorite parts of the day.

Daddy and mommy love you so much. We are so happy that you are our son. We feel so blessed. Thank you for bringing so much happiness and joy into our lives sweet baby boy. We love you to the moon and back.

P.S. Mommy is writing this post on Halloween so this is your first holiday. We can't wait to dress you up in your bat costume tonight.

House Under Contract

Our house is officially under contract. We just had the inspection on Monday and they didn't find anything big that needed to be fixed or replaced. As long as our home is appraised for the selling price then we will be closing on November 19th. This is a very exciting time in our lives. We have found a house to hopefully soon make our home.

Back to Work

I have been back to work since Monday, October 4th. It has been an adjustment for sure. I went from holding, changing, and nursing my son to teaching kids all about communication.

Hudson is being watched by my mom, and I know he is loving every minute of it. He loves his Mimi alot! Jeremy and I feel so blessed that she can be home to watch him for us. It definitely made the transition back to work much easier.

I spent Monday and Tuesday organizing my room, getting paperwork together, tweaking my schedule, and reading over student's IEP's. Today I am back to the grind of seeing students for speech and language therapy.....so far so good. I have met a few of my new students and have enjoyed each of them.

The past nine weeks that I was off with Hudson was so wonderful, and I miss those days already but our boy is doing well and growing quickly, and I am thankful I have a job.

2 Month Appointment

Hudson is a healthy baby.....that is the best news any parent wants to hear from their pediatrician. Hudson is growing like crazy. He is now 14 pounds 12 ounces which is exactly 7 pounds larger than when he was born. He is in the 90th percentile for weight. He has grown 4 inches since he was born too. He is 23 1/2 inches long and in the 75th percentile. His head circumference is 42cm which is also in the 90th percentile. We think Hudson is going to be a linebacker someday!! He got 3 shots today and had to drink the rotovirus medicine. He did cry when he felt the first stick but was easily comforted and calmed down quickly after mommy picked him up and loved on him when the shots were over. He has been a little sleepy today but not too fussy. I have been keeping the tylenol down him so that he does not get a fever.....so far so good! We feel blessed we have a sweet, healthy, growing baby boy. Hudson will have his next appointment and get his next round of shots at 4 months.

Tomorrow's Appointment

This is how Hudson feels about his shots tomorrow.

2 Months Old

Hudson you are now 2 months old. Your personality is shining through with each new day. You love it when people talk to you and sing to you. You smile more intentionally with each new week. Mommy likes to make up silly songs to sing to you. Some of your favorite things include being sung to, bouncing in your bouncy seat, taking baths, and riding in the car.

You are growing very quickly. You are a good eater. You often finishing nursing within 15 minutes and when you take a bottle you usually drink around 4-5 ounces of milk. You are also a very strong boy. You have great neck control and like to push up against our legs and stand like a big boy. At this point, your eyes are still dark blue but mommy thinks they are trying to change.

You are finally into a good sleeping routine. You usually sleep 5 hours the first round before you wake to nurse. Last night you slept 7.5 hours for the first time. We were so proud of you! Daddy still helps with the nighttime feedings. He is such a big help to mommy.

You have your 2-month checkup on September 30th. You will get your first round of shots and they will check your growth. I am excited to update all of your family on your percentiles and how much you have grown.

Mommy has to go back to work on October 4 and is dreading leaving you but you will be in the best hands with Mimi. We love you so much and this has been the best two months of our lives. You are such a sweet and good boy. We feel so blessed!

7 Weeks Today

Hudson is 7 weeks old today. I can't believe it. I have 2 more weeks off of work and I hate thinking about going back but know he will be in the best hands ever. I feel so blessed that my mother will be watching him for us. Hudson is growing like a weed. I am interested to see how much he weighs and how long he is at his next visit. His 2-month checkup is on Sept 30th where he will get his first shots. I am not looking forward to that at all. He is smiling more intentionally with each day and it is so darn cute. I love my baby and I love my life. Being a mom is amazing!!

It's off......finally!

After almost 6 weeks, Hudson's cord has finally come off. It fell off yesterday while Jeremy was letting him have tummy time. Jerm didn't realize it had come off until he went to change his diaper and saw it was gone. Sure enough it was laying on the bed where he had been doing tummy time. We are so glad to have it off. We got to give him his first real bath today. He liked it ok but I believe the water was a little bit chilly for him. I am scared to get it too hot and burn him but he likes his washcloth baths warm too. He was also hungry at the time of the bath so that didn't help either. We are going to try again tomorrow or the next day with a little warmer water!

First football game

Today Hudson attended his first MSU event. The home opener football game that was suppose to be played on Thursday night was rescheduled for Friday afternoon and we got to go! Mom, Dad, and I went to the game with Hudson dressed in his "born to be a bear" onesie. He did awesome even with the cannons going off and grandpa's loud cheering. It was a beautiful day in the Ozarks and a great day for football AND we got the victory! Hudson is definitely going to be a Bear fan...GO BEARS!

One month old photo shoot

1 Month Old

Happy 1 Month Birthday Hudson Ray. I can't believe that one month ago today I gave birth to you and held you in my arms for the first time.

I also cannot believe how many diapers you have gone through, feedings you have had, and memories we have made with you already. It has been one full month of rocking and putting you to bed each night. You sleep between 3-4 hours at a time and then wake to nurse. Daddy gets up with mommy to help change your diaper, burp you, and rock you back to sleep. He loves you so much!! You have grown so much since the day you were born. You weighed 7 lbs 12 oz at birth, and we think you are at least 10 lbs today. You are a good eater!! You enjoy your washcloth baths and when we wash your hair. You smile often in your sleep which is so precious. You have had lots of visitors come see you. Many people still want to meet your sweet face.

We have had some stressful nights with you crying and being upset but you have brought us more joy than we could ever imagine. You are the best thing that has ever happened to us Hudson. Mommy and daddy love you with all their hearts. We feel so blessed that God chose us to be your parents. We look forward to each month that we get to spend with you.

Some recent pics

Daddy and I taking a nap together

Holding my own paci

Enjoying my bouncy chair

Kisses from mommy

Back to Church

We love our church. We have been going to Riverbluff for over a year now. We took Hudson today for the first time. He was awake until the music began (which is quite loud) and slept through all of worship. He woke up once Pastor Scott began and daddy had to do some walking with him. Luckily, the only time he cried was when daddy changed his diaper in the bathroom so no one heard him. Here is a pic of him in his church outfit before we left the house.

Happy 3 Week Birthday

To my sweet baby boy.....Happy 3 Week Birthday. Mommy and Daddy love you so much. You have brought so much joy into our lives the past three weeks.

New Life

We have been adjusting at home with little Hudson. He is now 17 days old. It is definitely a change for the better; however, it has been difficult but well worth it. He usually feeds around every 2-3 hours during the day and 3-4 hours at night. Jeremy and I are finally getting better sleep at night with our angel monitor and Hudson establishing a routine. The monitor will go off if Hudson doesn't have movement within 20 seconds. So far, this has not happened and we are so thankful.

We couldn't believe how many diapers we were going through the first two weeks. His bowel movements seem to finally be slowing down!! Breastfeeding is going alot better after seeing the lactation consultant. It is a lot of work but worth it knowing that it is good for him and cheaper for us! We are doing something right since he now weighs 9.1 pounds and weighed 7.12 at birth.

I have appreciated my mom's help so much. Just having her there to listen to me or answer my questions or hold Hudson has been so nice! I love you momma!!!

This is our new life and we wouldn't trade it for anything! We love you Hudson Ray!

1 Week Old

Today Hudson is one week old. I can't believe it has already been 7 days since he entered this world.....time is flying by. I have been so lucky to have Jeremy home with me since his birth. I am dreading him going back to work on Monday and wish he had more time off. In Hudson's seven days of life, we have visited cousins in town that are here on vacation, traveled to Walmart for groceries, and went on our first walk in the stroller. Hudson pretty much eats, poops, and sleeps at this point. He dreams often which occasionally comes with a smile which is so sweet. We can't wait to share many more "firsts" with our son. We are totally in love with this little guy!!!

Welcome to the World Baby Boy!!!

Hudson Ray Elliott was born at 9:12 am on Thursday, July 29th. He was 7 pounds 12 ounces and 19 1/2 inches long.

I went to the hospital at midnight to be induced but we soon discovered that I was contracting on my own. I was contracting so much that they were unable to start the pitocin right away. At around 2 am, I received my epidural and pitocin was started. The doctor had told me at my 3:00pm appointment that she thought I would take 12-24 hours to deliver and that I would probably have to push for 1-2 hours. I dilated very quickly....approximately 1 cm an hour. We called our families around 6:00am to tell them that my labor was going quicker than expected.

At 6:30am when the nurses changed shifts and my friend Erika came to be my nurse I was already at 6cm. She was very surprised!! We had our families in the room with us pretty much until it was time to push. They stood outside of the door waiting until after he was born and then they came back in. It was a very special moment! My sister and Jeremy were both in the delivery room with me and both watched my son be born. I am so glad that I could share this special moment with the two people I love most in this world (along with my parents)!!

My total labor was nine hours (not the 12-24 the doc thought). I pushed five times and Hudson was welcomed into this world. He was born with lots of dark brown hair, a beautiful complexion, long fingers and toes, and looks just like his daddy. We are very proud and thank God everyday for a healthy baby boy.

Words can't describe the love you feel for a child until that child is in your arms for the first time. I truly feel like the luckiest person in the world. We came home from the hospital on Saturday. We are adjusting and trying to get into a routine. We are tired but it is expected. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers during the delivery.

Last appointment and Hudson tomorrow

I had my last doctor's appointment today. I have not made any progress from last week. I am still 80% effaced and 1 cm dilated. He is still resting on my cervix but I guess my body just isn't kicking into gear so I will be induced tonight. My doctor is back from her vacation so I am happy about that. She thinks he is going to be around 9 lbs. I will be started on pitocin tonight to get my contractions started and my doctor will be in in the morning to break my water. She thinks it will take 12-24 hours before we get to hold him so looking at having a baby boy sometime after noon and before midnight tomorrow night. We are so excited but also a little nervous which we know is normal. We will update with pics when he gets here. Please keep us three in your prayers. Thanks!

Induction

Tonight is the night. We will be going in tonight at midnight if Hudson does not decide to make an appearance sooner. I have a doctor's appointment at 3:00 today and that will give me a better idea of how all of this is going to go down (besides the fact that I will have a baby at the end of all of this). If all goes as planned, I believe we will have a baby in our arms tomorrow afternoon sometime. We are very excited and of course, I am nervous. Jeremy will be updating our facebook pages from our blackberry phones as things progress. And pics will be posted after he arrives. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you so very much!!

Waiting........trying to be patient

We are still waiting for Hudson to arrive. I am thinking he is going to be stubborn and stay in there until I am induced on Wednesday night. I am trying to stay patient but it is hard not knowing when I could start having contractions or when my water may break. As our Pastor talked about today in church, God is in control and I have to put my faith in Him that Hudson will arrive in His perfect timing. If you would keep us all in your thoughts and prayers for a safe, quick, and healthy delivery of our son we would greatly appreciate it. We will let you know when he joins us. Thanks!

Week 39 Photo

39 Weeks

I am 39 weeks today. I can't believe that Hudson will be here in 6 days or less. I am a mix of emotions thinking about this. I am happy because I cannot wait to hold my precious son in my arms and kiss his face, but also a little sad because I will no longer have that special bond that just him and I share where I can feel his every move inside of me. I am nervous about the delivery and the steps leading up to it. We feel prepared since we took the six week lamaze classes but you just never know how it will play out until you are in that situation. If everyone would just say a prayer for us that we have a quick and safe delivery of a healthy baby boy we would so greatly appreciate it.

I am obviously to the stage of being uncomfortable. My swelling is there but not as bad as it had been some other weeks. I am having lots of pressure especially when I roll over in bed or try to get up out of bed or off the couch. I know this is very typical at this stage in the pregnancy but it is not fun feeling 80! ha!! The one word that probably most describes me right now is READY! I am just waiting for my body to do it's thing whether that is to start having contractions or for my water to break.

At 39 weeks, most babies weigh a little over 7 pounds and are approximately 20 inches long. As we know, Hudson is a little bigger than that in terms of his weight. Most boys tend to be a little bigger than girls at this point. Hudson is continuing to build a layer of fat to help regulate his temperature once outside of the womb. His outer layer of skin is sloughing off as new skin forms underneath.

Pregnancy Highlights:
How Far Along: 39 weeks 0 days
Total Weight Gain/Loss: +22 (next doc appt is Wed)
Maternity Clothes: Exclusively
Best Moment this week: Feeling him move alot in the evenings and finishing packing for the hospital
Gender: Boy- Hudson Ray Elliott
Movement: Feel like he has less room to move around but he is still moving and kicking often
Food Craving: ice cream, fruit, sweets, cheez-its, sushi (but not eating sushi, Panera, cheese
What I miss: Not having heartburn/indigestion, being able to paint toes on own or bend down without being uncomfortable, not get up a million times in the night to use the restroom, pain when I get out of bed
Sleep: Pretty uncomfortable at this point. Heartburn is very bad, having to pee 4-5 times a night, and pain when I try to roll over or get out of bed.
What I am looking forward to: holding my son in my arms for the first time
Belly Button: Starting to poke out but hasn't popped yet
Symptoms: Braxton Hicks, Pubic pain, growing belly, using the bathroom constantly, stretch marks, belly button starting to poke out, heartburn/indigestion, swelling in feet and ankles.
Note: Just waiting for him to arrive......6 days or less!

Last appointment???

Well I had a doctors appointment today with one of the nurse practitioners in the office since my doctor is on vacation. This could technically be my last appointment if Hudson was to come on his own in the next few days. The nurse practitioner was super sweet, took her time with me, reviewed my file, and answered all my questions thoroughly.

My blood pressure was great. I have gained 23 pounds total. She said that 25-35 pounds is what they expect most women to gain so I am doing awesome!! Hudson's heart rate was 146 beats per minute. We are definitely making progress from the past few weeks. I was 80% effaced, 1 cm dilated, and he is resting on my cervix. Basically, my hormones need to make my body start contracting or my water needs to break. She said it could be tonight or next week when I am induced......no idea of when he will be here. This is where I just need to be patient and know that he will come when he is ready. No matter what, we know we will have a baby in 10 days or less.

I am becoming more uncomfortable with each night. It is hard to sleep and get comfortable in any position. I am very hot even with the air on 70 degrees and a fan blowing on me on the high speed. I am having to use the restroom at least 4-5 times in the night.

I can't wait to hold my baby boy in my arms and kiss his sweet face. Only a few more days!!!

Week 38 Photo

38 Weeks

Today I am 38 weeks. I have had lots of pressure this past week and am hoping that it is my body preparing to give birth. At my doctor's appointment this Monday, I was still 70% effaced and not dilated at all. This was somewhat disappointing but I know my baby boy will come on his own when he is ready. I am still a little worried he is going to come when my doctor is on vacation (19-25th). It will all work out fine and he will be here in 2 weeks or less.

At 38 weeks, Hudson has really plumped up now. He is approximately 6.8 pounds and over 19.5 inches long. We know from our ultrasound that we are dealing with a baby that is quite a bit bigger than the average. His organs have matured and are ready for the outside world. He has a strong grasp now that he will be able to test out on us when he holds onto our hands for the first time. If Hudson's eyes are brown when he is born it is likely they will stay brown. If they are gray or blue when he is born, there is a chance they will stay that color or change to green, hazel, or brown by 9 months of age.

If Hudson has not arrived before midnight on the 28th, I will be induced and have a baby in my arms by the 29th. I absolutely cannot wait to hold him in my arms and show him off to the world!!

Pregnancy Highlights:
How Far Along: 38 weeks 0 days
Total Weight Gain/Loss: +22
Maternity Clothes: Yes almost exclusively
Best Moment this week: Having our 4th and last ultrasound and seeing our baby again. He yawned, swallowed, and stuck out his tongue during the appointment.
Gender: Boy- Hudson Ray Elliott
Movement: Feel like he has less room to move around but he is still moving and kicking often
Food Craving: ice cream, fruit, sweets, cheez-its, sushi (but not eating sushi, Panera, cheese
What I miss: Not having heartburn/indigestion, being able to paint toes on own or bend down without being uncomfortable, not get up a million times in the night to use the restroom, pain when I get out of bed
Sleep: Not as good as it had been but still not horrible. I am having to get up to use the restroom or change positions alot more frequently
What I am looking forward to: the birth of our son
Belly Button: Starting to poke out but hasn't popped yet
Symptoms: Braxton Hicks, Pubic pain, growing belly, using the bathroom constantly, stretch marks, belly button starting to poke out, heartburn/indigestion, swelling in feet and ankles.
Note: Still not completely packed for hospital but have a list of things to make sure we take with us.

Two weeks or less

The countdown is on!! I had an ultrasound on Wednesday and our baby boy is measuring big. If he does not come on his own, I will be induced at midnight on the 28th and have a baby boy in my arms on the 29th which is exactly two weeks from today. It's hard to believe. I know our lives are going to change so much when he gets here but all for the better. I look forward to seeing him for the first time but I will definitely miss our moments together where I can feel his every move and kick. I love you Hudson Ray and I can't wait to meet you. Feel free to come any day. Mommy and daddy are more than ready to kiss your sweet face!

Lake Weekend with Friends

We went down to the lake for the last time before Hudson arrives with Jessica, Brandon, and 4 of our other friends. We got lots of time in the sun and water which was exactly what I needed. AND yes I could still get out of the water back into the boat......it's hard to believe when you see how big my belly has gotten the last few weeks.



On Saturday night, all of us girls headed to the Landing to eat dinner. We went to Garfields and then to Marble Slab Creamery. I loved Garfields as usual and my food was very good. I was not impressed with Marble Slab Creamery at all. We had to wait 45 minutes to get our ice cream and they didn't have brownie as a mix-in unless you paid another $1.50 for it, and it seemed more pricey to me than Cold Stone which we have here in Springfield.



While we were at the Landing, the four guys played poker out on the deck. The guys set out at the table with lights, candles, and tiki torches along with music provided by a boombox/ipod player. Brandon and Jeremy were the first two out, and Jason won the money around 2:00 am. It was a fun but tiring weekend!!

Jeremy and I are hoping that after Hudson arrives we can introduce him to the lake later this summer or early fall, even if that entails us keeping him in the playpen on the dock or in the cabin. He will definitely love growing up around the lake just like I have these past 26 years. I sure do love our lake place!!

Week 37 Photo

37 Weeks............our Watermelon

Hudson is now close to the size of a watermelon. It is hard to believe that my belly is as big as this green and pink fruit. I am now considered full term since I am at 37 weeks. This means Hudson would most likely thrive if he was born at this time because his lungs are more maturely developed now.

I have been pretty uncomfortable lately. It is definitely getting harder to sleep at night and I am walking/moving much slower. It really depends on the day and how he is positioned on if I have much pain or not. I continue to have some heartburn at night and swelling in my feet and ankles.

At 37 weeks, Hudson weighs around 6 and 1/3 pounds (or we think more) and is a little longer than 19 inches from head to heel. There is a good chance that he has a full head of hair at this point but then again some babies are born with only peach fuzz.....we shall wait and see. These last few weeks Hudson is preparing for the world outside of the womb. He is perfecting his blink, suck, inhale, and exhale. Meconium is starting to accumulate in his intestines and that will be seen in his first bowel movement.

Jeremy put together Hudson's dresser and changing table this past Sunday since we have come to the realization that we will not be moved out of this house by the time he arrives. We figured we at least needed to be more prepared than what we were for when he decides to make his appearance into this world. We are headed to the lake with friends for one more weekend of fun and sun before he arrives. I am hoping to take him down there towards the end of the summer!!

Pregnancy Highlights:
How Far Along: 37 weeks 0 days
Total Weight Gain/Loss: +22
Maternity Clothes: Yes almost exclusively
Best Moment this week: Putting together his room and setting up his dresser and changing table
Gender: Boy- Hudson Ray Elliott
Movement: Feel like he has less room to move around but he is still moving and kicking often
Food Craving: ice cream, fruit, sweets, cheez-its, sushi (but not eating sushi, Panera, cheese
What I miss: Not having heartburn/indigestion, being able to paint toes on own or bend down without being uncomfortable, not get up a million times in the night to use the restroom, pain when I get out of bed
Sleep: Not as good as it had been but still not horrible. I am having to get up to use the restroom or change positions alot more frequently
What I am looking forward to: my doctor's appointment on Monday
Belly Button: Starting to poke out but hasn't popped yet
Symptoms: Braxton Hicks, Pubic pain, growing belly, using the bathroom constantly, stretch marks, belly button starting to poke out, heartburn/indigestion, swelling in feet and ankles.
Note: Going to get my hospital bag ready when we return from the lake on Sunday so that I am prepared for when this little guy is ready to come into this world!!

Week 36 Photo

36 Weeks

One more week and Hudson will be the size of a watermelon. I am 36 weeks today and also had my first weekly doctor's appointment today. My doctor said everything looks good. Hudson was very active, and his heartbeat was 170 beats per minute. I had gained four more pounds from my previous appointment and my blood pressure was great. My doctor checked my cervix for the first time. I am 70% effaced (soft) and not dilated at all. I guess that is a good thing so I can go to the lake the next two weekends since we already made plans to go. ha! Hudson has not dropped yet but is still face down and putting lots of pressure on his mommy. He continues to be very active, and I love feeling him move.

Yesterday was a special day. Mom and I washed and sorted most of Hudson's clothes that we were handed down from friends and family members. It was an exciting time but stressful to think about where it is all going to go in our small house since it still hasn't sold. Thanks mom for all of your help yesterday. Hudson and I both love you so much!

At 36 weeks, Hudson is gaining about an ounce a day. He weighs approximately 6 pounds and is 18.5 inches long (our doc guessed he is 7 lbs right now and will be around 8-8.5 at delivery). He is getting rid of the little hairs that covered his body as well as the waxy substance that protected his skin the past 9 months in the amniotic fluid. Next week Hudson will be considered full-term.

Pregnancy Highlights:
How Far Along: 36 weeks 0 days
Total Weight Gain/Loss: +20
Maternity Clothes: Yes almost exclusively
Best Moment this week: Washing and sorting all of his baby clothes with my mom
Gender: Boy- Hudson Ray Elliott
Movement: Feel like he has less room to move around but he is still moving and kicking often
Food Craving: ice cream, fruit, sweets, cheez-its, sushi (but not eating sushi, Panera, cheese
What I miss: Not having heartburn/indigestion, being able to paint toes on own or bend down without being uncomfortable, not get up a million times in the night to use the restroom
Sleep: Still pretty good but having to get up to use the restroom or change positions alot more frequently
What I am looking forward to: setting up our dresser and changing table
Belly Button: Starting to poke out but hasn't popped yet
Symptoms: Braxton Hicks, Pubic pain, growing belly, using the bathroom constantly, stretch marks, belly button starting to poke out, heartburn/indigestion, swelling in feet and ankles.
Note: Excited for the holiday weekend with my family at the lake!

Week 35 Photo

35 Weeks

Still no new fruit comparison until week 37 so Hudson remains the size of a honeydew for a few more weeks.

We are now 35 weeks. It is crazy to me that he could be here anytime if he decided to come early. We have thought the entire pregnancy that we were 2 weeks ahead of what the first ultrasound revealed so we will see. I can definitely tell that Hudson is head down (which u/s told us about a month ago) and that he is moving lower into my pelvis. I know this because I am having alot more pressure and many more times of having to go to the restroom throughout the day and night. I am also experiencing more Braxton Hicks contractions which I didn't think I was having until my last doctor's appointment. I asked my doctor if it is common not to have them at all in your pregnancy because at that point I hadn't felt anything that made me think I was having them. She told me I probably was having them but didn't notice them and then she told me to lie back while she listened to his heartbeat and come to find out I was having one right there on the table. My stomach was super hard and I had some pressure but that was it. I guess I have been experiencing them longer than I have known. I am feeling pretty good. I am still having some swelling in my feet and ankles but nothing too bad. Heartburn has appeared to be a little better this week but it could be that I am watching what I eat.

My godmother had my family and friend baby shower last Saturday. We got so many wonderful things from everyone. Some of the bigger things we got included: our bedding, glider, highchair, pack n play, and travel system with the car seat and stroller. The gifts were so nice and we feel so blessed! I feel like we are set in terms of what we need for Hudson. The only problem now is that all of the stuff is being stored at my parent's house and we need to sell this house and buy a new one before I can set up his nursery. I am needing to nest and I am not able to because our house hasn't sold. I look forward to the day when I can set everything up in his room with Jeremy and wash and hang each outfit we have received for our little guy.

At 35 weeks, Hudson is over 18 inches long and weighs approximately 5 1/4 pounds. He doesn't have much room to maneuver anymore which is probably why his movements have changed. It seems his kicks aren't as hard and that when he does move his legs it feels more like he is skimming my stomach instead of punching it. Hudson's kidneys are fully developed now and his liver can process some waste products At this point, most of his physical development is complete! He will continue to put on weight over the next few weeks.

Pregnancy Highlights:
How Far Along: 35 weeks 0 days
Total Weight Gain/Loss: +16
Maternity Clothes: Yes almost exclusively
Best Moment this week: Getting lots of wonderful gifts for Hudson at the shower and touring labor and delivery and mother's unit at our lamaze class
Gender: Boy- Hudson Ray Elliott
Movement: Feel like he has less room to move around but he is still moving and kicking often
Food Craving: ice cream, fruit, sweets, cheez-its, sushi (but not eating sushi, Panera, cheese
What I miss: Not having heartburn/indigestion, being able to paint toes on own or bend down without being uncomfortable, not get up a million times in the night to use the restroom
Sleep: Still pretty good but having to get up to use the restroom or change positions alot more frequently
What I am looking forward to: the lake this weekend
Belly Button: Starting to poke out but hasn't popped yet
Symptoms: Braxton Hicks, Pubic pain, growing belly, using the bathroom constantly, stretch marks, belly button starting to poke out, heartburn/indigestion, swelling in feet and ankles.
Note: Can't wait to meet our little man!

I have my next appointment a week from today and she will be checking my cervix for the first time so that should give us a better idea at where I am at. I will update after that appointment!

Update from the Dr.

Well I had a doctor's appointment today. I had gained 4 pounds from the previous appointment two weeks ago. I am now up to 16 pounds that I have gained total. Hudson's heart rate was 145 beats per minute which is the lowest it has been the entire pregnancy but still well within the normal range. My blood pressure is still good and my next appointment is July 2nd. She will check my cervix for the first time at this appointment to see if I am dilated at all. This will give her a better indication of where I am at. I am hoping that he will come early. At this point, I am just praying he doesn't come July 19-25 because my doctor will be on vacation far away so someone else will have to deliver me. I am feeling pretty good and just needing naps often. I hope everyone has a great week!

Happy Father's Day

To my wonderful daddy who I love more than words can describe. Jessie and I are so blessed to call you dad and have you in our lives. I hope you had a great day at the lake with mom and I look forward to spending Tuesday night with you. Thanks for all of your love and support all of these years!

To my wonderful husband who is going to be a daddy in a little over a month. You are going to be a great dad and I can't wait until we get to hold our sweet boy in our arms. I love you!

To all of the other fathers out there......Happy Father's Day!

Family and Friend Shower

We had our family and friend shower today. Many of our family members, my old neighbors, family friends, and a couple girlfriends were able to attend. Jeremy decided to stay for the duration of the shower and help me open gifts......I was so glad he did! We got so many wonderful gifts for our baby boy. Now if we just had our new home and could set up all of the new items and I could organize everything I would be in heaven. Thank you to everyone who came and made our shower a special one for all 3 of us!!!

A Special Gift

My sister got me a special gift that she gave to me yesterday. It is a necklace with Hudson's name and his birthstone from Vintage Pearl. I have been wanting one of these my whole pregnancy since I saw it on another blog. My sister got a ruby birthstone assuming he will be born in July; however, the company said that she could send it back in and exchange it if he was born in August. I am crossing my fingers that he comes in the middle of July!! Thanks sis for the beautiful gift that means so much to me. I love you!

Week 34 Photo

34 Weeks

There is no new fruit comparison this week so our baby Hudson is still the size of a honeydew melon.

I am 34 weeks today. I am feeling pretty good although requiring alot more naps at this point in the pregnancy. Luckily, I am out of school for the summer and have the ability to do so. I am also experiencing swelling in my ankles and feet. In the morning, it seems to be pretty good but by noon or the evening my feet look pretty fat. I have also not been able to put them up as much as I would like so this could be contributing to the swelling. My belly is continuing to grow and I feel bigger with each week. My wonderful sister came over last night to paint my toes for my showers because I no longer can reach my feet very comfortably. Thanks sis! I am still having heartburn and indigestion depending on what I eat so I am still taking Tums when needed.

At 34 weeks, baby Hudson weights approximately 4 3/4 pounds and is around 18 inches long. His fat layers which he will use to help regulate his body temperature once out of the womb are filling him out. This is making him appear more round. His skin is also smoother than it has been the entire pregnancy. Hudson's central nervous system and lungs are continuing to mature with each week in the womb. If he was born between 34 and 37 weeks which is considered preterm he would likely be fine and likely just have a few short-term health issues due to being born early.

We made a purchase on Monday for Hudson. It is a new Nikon advanced point and shoot camera. We really like it so far but are still trying to figure out all of the settings. We had a nice point and shoot but wanted something more high tech that we could get GREAT pics of our baby boy once he gets here.

We also had a baby shower today at Jerm's work. It was very nice with food, a cake, and presents. I am thankful for all of our co-workers that gave us showers, bought Hudson gifts, and gave their time for us! We have our infant CPR class tomorrow and then I have my family and friend shower after that and am looking forward to seeing many people that I haven't seen in a while. My next doctor's appointment is on Monday. I will update after the appointment on how things are going!

Pregnancy Highlights:
How Far Along: 34 weeks 0 days
Total Weight Gain/Loss: +16
Maternity Clothes: Yes almost exclusively
Best Moment this week: Feeling Hudson move and dance inside of me during the concert
Gender: Boy- Hudson Ray Elliott
Movement: Feel like he has less room to move around but he is still moving and kicking often
Food Craving: ice cream, fruit, sweets, cheez-its, sushi (but not eating sushi, Panera, cheese
What I miss: Not having heartburn/indigestion, being able to paint toes on own or bend down without being uncomfortable
Sleep: Still pretty good but having to get up to use the restroom or change positions about 3-4 times a night.
What I am looking forward to: Family and Friend shower on Saturday
Belly Button: Starting to poke out but hasn't popped yet
Symptoms: Pubic pain, growing belly, using the bathroom constantly, stretch marks, belly button starting to poke out, heartburn/indigestion, swelling in feet and ankles.
Note: Love my baby and my husband so much!

Sons of Sylvia, Craig Morgan, and Carrie Underwood

We went to the concert of Sons of Sylvia, Craig Morgan, and Carrie Underwood on Tuesday night. I count it as my first REAL concert. I saw Chicago at Hammons when I was little and my dad was working security, but I don't remember much about it due to my age. I have also seen a few people perform at the Ozark Empire Fair that come to Springfield but those shows are just not the magnitude of this concert.

I had never heard of Sons of Sylvia. They played banjos, violins, and guitars but had a more rock sound to them. They were good! I thought Craig Morgan would be ok but he was excellent. I knew almost every song he played and he was quite nice to look at as well! Carrie played around 23 songs and majority were her hits. She changed outfits approximately 6 times and she wore some super cute and tall shoes that had to be very uncomfortable. She didn't dance much but had some cool set changes such as swinging on stage, flying above the crowd from a truck that was suspended, and she played the guitar in two songs and the piano in one. I didn't know she even played any instruments!

The concert started at 7:30 and got over at 11:15. It was a fun but tiring night. I really enjoyed my first experience. Hudson enjoyed it as well as he danced in my belly the whole night!! Next up, Adam Lambert is coming to Hammons Hall!!

1 Year Anniversary

One year down and many more to go. Jeremy and I celebrated our 1 year anniversary relaxing at the cabin and the Landing this weekend. We had a friend's wedding on Friday night so we didn't head to the lake until Saturday morning. We spent Saturday out on the boat, lounging in the lake on air mattresses, and enjoying dinner at Joe's Crab Shack on the Landing. On Sunday, we slept in and made cinnamon rolls for breakfast. We then went back out on the boat to enjoy more time in the sunshine. Relaxing in the water was so nice for me!! I was a little worried about getting out of the water back into the boat, but I didn't have any trouble even with my big belly.....just took me longer than normal. The weather was perfect all weekend and we had a wonderful time just being together!

Our first open house was also on Sunday. It went well and our realtor said it was a good showing. We are waiting to hear from her and praying we get an offer sometime soon.

Jeremy's work is having a shower for us on Friday and my family and friends shower is this coming Saturday. I can't wait to see all of the wonderful things that we get for Hudson!

Week 33 Photo