34 Weeks

Pregnancy Highlights

How far along: 34 weeks

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +22 pounds

Maternity Clothes: Yes.

Best Moment this Week: Lunch at Panera Bread today with my husband!

Gender: BOY! Baby Caleb :)

Movement: His kicks are SO intense! It amazes me someone so tiny can kick so hard!

Food Cravings: Junk, mostly sweets...and also Thai food. And boba.

Food aversions: Healthy food, lol.

What I Miss: Being able to do anything without back pain, pelvic pain, vaginal pain, any kind of pain! Lol.

Sleep: I've been sleeping okay. It's the trying to get comfortable TO sleep part that's horrible.

What I am looking forward to: Buying and receiving more things for Caleb.

Love,

Tiare

Resolutions

With the new year fast approaching, I thought I should get a jump on my resolutions--one of them being to procrastinate less--and actually do the stuff on this list in 2013.

I RESOLVE TO...

1. Stop taking everything so seriously
2. Laugh more
3. Complain less
4. Be less jealous
5. Be more outspoken
6. Be more confident
7. Get in shape after recovering from Caleb popping out
8. Get my size 13 ass back to a size 9 ass
9. Get back to eating healthier food
10. Drink more water
11. Stretch more
12. Replace my old bras and underwear
13. Download more albums to my phone
14. Be the best wife and mother I can be for my family
15. Remember to take time for myself once in a while
16. Have date nights with Mike
17. Remember to spend time with immediate family too
18. Take more pictures with family and friends
19. Find a job
20. Work hard
21. Save money
22. Pay off credit card debt
23. Get more organized
24. Take a trip
25. Don't get too stressed out

Love,

Tiare

Day 23: Favorite vacation

My FAVORITE vacation is any of my trips to Disneyland! I have been 3 times and every trip was filled with great memories! I am definitely a big kid at heart and there is just something magical about that place. I am most excited about taking Caleb to Disney someday. Definitely when he's old enough to walk! Maybe when he's around 4 years old or something. So exciting!

The last time I went to Disneyland was April of 2008, with Mike.. for our honeymoon! It was so exciting because it was Mike's first time! I wish we were rich so we could try all the restaurants and food carts. I keep hearing the food there is incredible! I've only tried a couple of their restaurants, and I don't even remember which exact ones.

Anyway, yeah.. when Caleb's here though. Omg, I'll probably be more excited than he will be! Lol. I can't wait :)

Love,
Tiare

Our Christmas Goodies

Mike got me...

Hunger Games Blu Ray

Because I love The Hunger Games Trilogy :)

Ted Blu Ray

This movie is AMAZINGLY funny!

Crock Pot

I already have a mini one, but now I have a 6 qt. one.. can't wait to use it!

Wax Warmer

LOVE! He got an owl because he didn't want to get a plain one and knew I liked owls.

Scented Wax Cubes

Not the scents in the picture though. He got Creamy Spiced Eggnog, Line-Dried Linen, Spiced Rum Cake, Shimmering Cherry Blossom, and Tranquil Garden Spa. They smell incredible!

And I got Mike...

Bond 50 DVD Collection

His inner Bond was super excited about this! :) Haha

Assassin's Creed Ezio Trilogy

Assassin's Creed III

And my family got me...

Keurig

:) It's so cool. And it came with 12 K-Cups.

Thank you fam!

K-Cup Carousel

Mike and I also received money from my uncle. Thank you uncle!

What did the hubs get from my family?

Issey Miyake Cologne and Aftershave Balm Set

Our favorite scent on him :)

Headphones

My family also got us...

Ferrero Rocher Chocolates

Mike only ate 2 because he didn't like them. So, I ate the rest.. lol. There's only 2 left.

We must have been good this year! :)

Love,

Tiare

Day 22: Favorite city.

I love to travel. It is always fun to explore a new place or return to one of my favorite vacation spots. But I would have to say that my favorite city is my hometown of Honolulu, HI.

There are no words to express how much I love that little island of Oahu. I get a warm feeling whenever I think about it. I can't even begin to count the amazing memories I had growing up there. But what I love MOST about the island is the people. It's such a close community. I'm so thankful to have been born and kind of, somewhat raised in Hawaii.

I am a firm believer that: There is NO place like HOME. And for me Honolulu will always be home. In fact, I would be THRILLED if that is where Mike, Caleb, and I end up one day. I can't think of a better place to raise a family :)

Love,

Tiare

Day 20 & 21: Nicknames/Picture of yourself.

Nicknames

T or Aurie

Old picture of myself, 2 years ago

Love,

Tiare

Day 19: Something you miss.

MOST of my family lives in Vegas or Hawaii. Aside from missing the obvious (parents & sisters), I miss my family that live in Hawaii.

There are my grandparents.
Then my uncles & aunties.
Then my cousins.

My Nana, papa, uncle Vincent (mom's brother), aunty Marie (mom's sister), & my precious cousins.

My aunty Marie has three children. All girls. I miss those kids! They're SO cute ;) I hate being so far away from them. I am so ready to see them all again! Hopefully for my sister's graduation!

Sera, Scarlett, and Jessie :) SO cute, right!?

My cousin (Ryten), his girlfriend, my grandma, aunty Lani (dad's sister), & my other cousin (Ryley, but we call him Hano).

My aunty Lani has two children. Both boys. I love & miss them too! Hope I see them again soon too! I have one other uncle (dad's brother), who lives in Seattle.

My uncle John.

Love my family & miss them TONS!

Love,

Tiare

Day 18: Something you regret.

I have a couple of things I regret. I would definitely do them differently if I had the chance. BUT every decision I have made along the way has gotten me to where I am today. And where I am today is EXACTLY where I want to be :)

Love,
Tiare

32 Weeks

Pregnancy Highlights

How far along: 32 weeks

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +18 pounds

Maternity Clothes: Yup. However, I don't really go out since I'm on modified bed rest, so I just wear sweats & shirts all the time. :)

Best Moment this Week: Receiving more baby gifts in the mail!

Gender: BOY! Baby Caleb :)

Movement: Getting stronger & stronger. He is doing somersaults in there!

Food Cravings: Ice cream, potato chips, chocolate, pies..you know..the JUNK food!

Food aversions: None.

What I Miss: Sleeping on my stomach.

Sleep: This week has been bad. My back pain is on another level.

What I am looking forward to: Caleb arriving in several weeks! I can't wait! I'm going crazy! :)

Love,

Tiare

Day 17: Something you're looking forward to.

Top 5 things I'm looking forward to this/next year.

1. More Miami Heat basketball. We still have a great team this year! I'm so excited!

2. Christmas. It's my 2nd favorite holiday. This is my first Christmas away from family and friends, but I still have my husband with me, so it's not bad.

3. Moving back to Vegas. I will finally be able to have a better chance of finding a job!

4. Caleb's arrival. February 8, 2013 can't come soon enough! I'm so ready to meet him!

5. 4th of July. I can't wait, it's going to be one of Caleb's first holidays! Lol, $94 for this though!? Sheesh, Ralph Lauren. 

Love,

Tiare

Day 16: Dream Home.

When I think about my dream home, I think about bay windows, sunken tubs, walk-in closets, and most of all.. a nice kitchen. But ultimately, those things aren't what's important. Home to me isn't just a place, it's a feeling. A feeling of love and security. It's knowing that I get to spend the rest of my life with the person I love most. Home for me is anywhere Mike and Caleb are. Whether we live in a big house or a small apartment, as long as I have these two people there: I am HOME.

Love,

Tiare

Day 15: Bible verse(s)

I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world." - John 16:33

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again--rejoice! - Philippians 4:4

No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. - Micah 6:8

I look up to the mountains--does my help come from there? - Psalm 121:1

Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. - 1 Peter 5:7

What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? - Romans 8:31

Three things will last forever--faith, hope, and love--and the greatest of these is love. - 1 Corinthians 13:13

Love,
Tiare

Day 14: A picture you love.

I asked my little sister to send me some pictures to share for "Throwback Thursday" on Instagram, and she sent me this picture of me and her. I couldn't help but laugh! Malia and I were so weird! We still are, lol. I remember always doing this face for some reason, it was my go-to silly face.

Here is a more recent picture of me and Malia. Actually, this was 2 years ago.. lmao, but it's the most recent one I have of just us two. Even though we are far away, I still love to look at all of our old pictures and remember the fun times we had. I'm SO thankful for all of the wonderful memories I have with Malia :) I need to make more with Kiana!

Love,

Tiare

We've Come A Long Way, Baby!

7 months and 3 weeks!!! I'm almost 8 months pregnant!

It's getting hard to breathe. Caleb and my uterus are pushing on all the internal organs...cramping my lung space a little! It feels so fun when he's moving around...heehee. At first it felt like little bubbles popping in my stomach, or kind of like...little taps on your belly. Then as he's getting bigger...it feels like BIG ROLLING movements.

Lately at bedtime, my husband will build my little "fortress of solitude" with pillows around me so I can get comfy. It's not so fun though when I have to move a pillow out of the way a couple of times to get up and pee in the middle of the night. Caleb takes up a lot of room, including bladder space! Hahaha.

Love,
Tiare

Basketball In My Belly

It looks like I must have swallowed a basketball or something :)

It's hard to believe I've got another 9 to 10 weeks of stretching left to do!

XOXO,

Tiare

P.S.

I love Caleb like crazy!

The Belly: Week 28 (Late Upload)

Kicking in the belly.. (don't mind my obnoxious voice) I kept meaning to upload this video after I filmed it, but kept forgetting. This was 2 weeks ago.

I always want to try and get a creepy alien-in-the-belly looking video, but I guess he's not a fan of attention - the second I try to get a video of him kicking or moving, he stops. Lol. I tried to get a more recent 30 week video of him moving, but.. ehh, I guess he's not up for it. But, I still love him.. lol.

As far as I'm doing, fairly great. I love being pregnant, but there are definitely its uncomfortable moments - peeing constantly, aching vagina, sore hips, itchy skin, ribs hurting. Luckily, my feet and ankles aren't swelling.

Oh, today.. Mike and I went to Caravail's Day Spa to redeem my free pregnancy massage (compliments of the Pampered Pregnancy Program at the hospital I'm delivering at). It was great, for it being only 30 minutes long. The full massage is an hour long, but that's $80.. lol. The therapist was gentle and it was just so relaxing. She massaged my back, thighs, calves, and feet. All my pains were gone and when she did my back and feet especially, omg.. it was amazing, lol. I was definitely satisfied.

Love,

Tiare

STRETCH MARKS?!

On Friday I found stretch marks on my belly! Aaaahhhaahhah! I seriously thought I was blessed to have no stretch marks so far and then I was getting ready to hop in the shower, and then.. ugh. Straight up stretch marks. I have them right just on the underside of my belly. So, that sucks balls. Nothing I can do though, just.. gotta deal with them.

Sigh, sucks though. My belly is REALLY starting to grow now, and I am getting more and more freaked out about getting more stretch marks. I was slacking on the cocoa butter routine for a few weeks. I knew I shouldn't have stopped! Ugh, lol. My weight gain has been gradual though, but I guess that doesn't matter. My mom has stretch marks from having me and my sisters, so I suppose I was doomed to get them eventually.

I hope they don't get too bad, because I want to wear bikinis in the summer.. lol.

Aaaahaahaaah! =/

Love,
Tiare

The "pregnant after a loss" mindset is a sad one.

In April of 2011, we were thrilled to find out that we were expecting our first baby. Devastatingly, on September 01, our son Micheal Cortez Jr. was born at 23 weeks old and lived for just several minutes.

In May of 2012, we found out we were pregnant again. Our handsome son, Caleb Amana, is due to arrive on February 08, 2013 and we could not be more in love with him. We are truly lucky!

While pregnant after a loss, I didn't think it was possible to become any more doubtful. I thought I was cautious last time...this time I was 20x more cautious and felt as if I was always "knocking on wood." Throughout this pregnancy, I would say to myself "I am pregnant and I love my baby." Then I would realize...well, what happens if I lose this baby too? So I also started saying to myself "I will bring this baby home." Then I would think of how I brought our first son home in ashes and clarified: "I will bring this baby home ALIVE." And then I would remember Mike and think, "I'd better say 'we' to clarify. We will bring this baby home alive." And then I would realize that I was pretty much tempting fate to give me a baby with health problems, so I started to think, "Okay, I need to add 'healthy' in there. This baby will stay alive and healthy."

I think it's clear that Caleb gave me OCD during this pregnancy.

I am pregnant.
I love my baby.
This baby will stay alive and healthy.

Love,
Tiare

30 Weeks

Pregnancy Highlights

How far along: 30 weeks (but I feel like I look smaller.. I dunno, maybe it's just me!)

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +15 pounds

Maternity Clothes: I have got to get some nursing tanks and bras.

Best Moment this Week: Receiving some clothes in the mail for Caleb.

Gender: BOY! Baby Caleb :)

Movement: He is super active!

Food Cravings: I really want Burger King's Whopper.

Food aversions: None.

What I Miss: Being comfortable. My back has been killing me. No fun.

Sleep: Sleeping pretty good as far as the hours I get, but last night it took me 4 hours to fall asleep.

What I am looking forward to: Tomorrow, because it'll be December. Yay, it's almost Christmastime! 

Love,

Tiare

Whoa. Where Does Time Go???

70...that's how many days there are until my due date. Holy crap! I don't think we were ever really prepared for how fast time actually goes. I don't know if it will ever feel real until Caleb comes.

I'm eager to meet this little guy, but at the same time it's overwhelming to think of how life will change once he's here...

Mike and I will experience being parents to a baby for the first time; I can't wait to see Mike interact with our son, but at the same time I don't know how he'll be with the constant attention Caleb will need from both of us, especially in the beginning. I'm not super nervous about it, but a little worried because for the time we've been together, we've been able to have a lot of "us time" and get away once in a while.

And truthfully, it's hard for me to imagine how I'll adjust. How do you love two equally? How do you give a precious baby enough attention plus your husband plus get everything accomplished that you need to? I already try to do as much as I can around the house at this point and I need to ask for help more than I do, so I will definitely have to ask Mike to pitch in more with dishes and other household stuff, even though my instinct is to try to take care of everything around the house. We'll be moving back to Vegas next year, so the baby will be about four to six months old once I get back into looking for work. Then, I know it'll be SO hard to leave Caleb because I'll be quite used to being a stay-at-home mommy. I guess that's life though.

Love,
Tiare

[Update]*
Forgot to mention, my results for the fibronectin test came back negative... so everything is okay. So it's pretty safe (99% sure) to say I won't be going into labor within the next 2 weeks. Also, the 3 hour glucose test results came back normal... so, yay! No gestational diabetes. High five! ;)

News from the Doc :(

So I got the results from my glucose test yesterday and my sugar level was really high, so today I went in for a 3 hour glucose test.. omg. The cutoff level is 140 and my level was 161. So I went in this morning and got my blood drawn, drank the sugary drink, and got my blood drawn every hour for 3 hours. So I got poked 4 times.. (5 when you count my progesterone shot). I'm a human pin cushion, lol.

Anyway, on a serious note.. omg, I hope I pass this one. It would really suck if I have gestational diabetes. My diet would have to be super strict, but the good thing is that gestational diabetes goes away after the pregnancy. Who knows what's going to happen? Only God knows. The nurse said the results should come back around Thursday.

I had the fetal fibronectin test done today, and the nurse said that I should be getting a call from her tomorrow with the results. Hopefully, it comes back negative :) In the meantime, I'm still ordered to chill out and take it easy. As far as my cervical changes go, my doctor said that my cervix still feels the same as last week, a little bit opened on the outside. However, it did shorten a little bit since last week.. it's now at 2.6 cm, but the funneling still looks the same as last week. He's still not too worried yet, he wants to wait for the fibronectin results to come back first to see what we need to do from here. I pray it comes back negative because I really don't want to go into preterm labor. If it comes back positive though, I'll probably have to be put on strict bed rest. Hang in there, Caleb!

Love,
Tiare

29 Weeks

Caleb seems to be really good. He is really really active all the time. I've read that his activity will decrease as he gets bigger and the amniotic fluid decreases. I'm just enjoying all this funny movement. Today he's been moving and kicking a lot and it still feels so weird yet so cool to me! It makes me laugh and smile every time. Pretty soon I will get to share him with the world. That is so exciting, yet I'm kind of stressed and worried at the same time! There's still lots to do before he gets here! We have to deep clean! Well, Mike has to since I need to be taking it easy. We also need to get his stroller and car seat. I want to start getting the hospital bag ready when we get our next paycheck. I wasn't going to start getting that ready until January, but.. I think I should start sooner just in case Caleb decides to arrive earlier than expected. Anyway, that is all I've got to blog about for today! Until next time..

Love,
Tiare

Nursery Bedding!!!

We registered at Babies R Us a few weeks ago, but we haven't registered for any nursery things because we don't plan on setting up Caleb's room while we're living here. We're moving back to Vegas next year, so the less big furniture we have.. the better! I've also registered at Target. I did that one online since my doctor told me to take it easy. Anyway, we do have nursery bedding/theme that we have in mind already for when we set up his room in Vegas. Picking out nursery sets are so wonderful! We're planning on the theme being vintage Winnie the Pooh or giraffes. Mike really likes the vintage Pooh theme! We haven't picked out the actual furniture yet, but we both like the espresso colored furniture. Here are pics of the Pooh theme we like.

4-Piece Bedding Set (comforter, sheet, bumper, and dust ruffle)

Fleece Blanket

Musical Mobile

I need to find a changing pad cover that matches. I also want to get him this adorable lamp...

Lamp and Shade

I also need to find a cute clock that matches. I'll look on Amazon or Babies R Us or Target, lol. I found all of these on Amazon, except the giraffe theme ones.. I found those at Babies R Us. Maybe my mom can find them cheaper somewhere else? ;) Lol. 

Now if we go the giraffe theme route, here are pics for that.

9-Piece Crib Bedding Set (quilt, dust ruffle, printed sheet, window valance, diaper stacker, 3 piece wall art, and solid coordinating sheet)

Blanket

Mobile

Lamp

I think I want to keep the walls a neutral color. He is seriously going to have the cutest little boy room ever! :)

Love,

Tiare

Happy Thanksgiving Eve

Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays. Actually, I think Thanksgiving is my FAVORITE, followed by Christmas. You get to eat food...how could you NOT like it? Sometimes I forget to be thankful for the many blessings I do have in my life. Life really is a beautiful gift. You get a chance every single morning to start over, have a fresh start, and make the most of the gift you are given. My life has been changed dramatically over the years with some rough months, some smooth months, but I am thankful.

What I am thankful for this Thanksgiving:

• My Husband
• I have no idea where I'd be or who I'd be without my husband in my life. I am beyond thankful that the man of my dreams has come into my life and will be by my side for a lifetime. We have been through some hard times as a couple and we always seem to get closer than we ever have been before. My husband has been by my side during the hardest times of my life. Words can't even describe how amazing he is and how much I absolutely love him. He truly is the best gift I've ever gotten and I will work as hard as I have to to show him how grateful I am to have him in my life.
• My Sons
• My children will always be my biggest gift I am thankful for. I'm so thankful for the time I had with Micheal Jr. even though it was such a short time. I am convinced that losing a child is something that you never "get over." Yes, it's something that becomes easier to talk about and easier to deal with, but you never forget. It doesn't matter how long he was growing inside me...the love I feel is intensely full and the pain of loss is also. I'm so thankful for Caleb and I pray with everything in me that he comes out healthy. He is gorgeous and God's gift to us after Micheal Jr. We are truly blessed and we definitely don't take anything for granted.
• My Parents
• I couldn't have asked for better parents and I am more than thankful that they belong to me. The amount of love between my parents and I is impossible to describe but I'd be a lost soul if I didn't grow up with the parents that I have. My parents are the most amazing people I know and I wish I was home to be with them this Thanksgiving :)
• My Sisters
• My parents raised three of the most amazing people in this world. We each have our own personalities and little quirks, but we all have the biggest hearts and our family comes first- no matter what! I am so thankful each and every day that I have my sisters in my life. I'm blessed and I know they have my back no matter what.
• My In-Laws
• My husband's family is a blessing in my life and I am so thankful that I have such a wonderful family to enter into. I love them so much and look forward to every time we get to go see them, it makes me happy. I truly am lucky to add wonderful people into my family. 
• My Husband's Job
• In an economy where jobs are hard to come by, I am VERY thankful that my husband has one. I'm sure he has days where he'd rather just lay in bed and not have to go to work, but he drags his ass up around 5am every morning to support us financially. He's amazing and I'm thankful for everything he's done, not only for me...but for this country, especially doing 3 deployments in Iraq...I know he's been through so much. I can't wait for that day when I can return the favor and contribute to our finances.
• October 30, 2007
• Yes, I am THANKFUL for our wedding! It was different than I had originally thought, but it was still perfect and I married my best friend.
• This Blog
• I am thankful that I started blogging. It has turned out to be the best release for me. I get my feelings out that I tend to keep bottled up. I express my ideas and thoughts, and I have grown to love blogging soooo much! When I have some free time, all I think about during the day is, "Hmm...what can I write about today?". 
• Friends and Family
• I am very, very thankful for the people I have in my life who care about me, worry about me, pray for me, and can make me laugh. I thank them all from the bottom of my heart!
• Laughter
• I couldn't live without being able to laugh, so I am very thankful that not only do I enjoy people who make me laugh, I enjoy the fact that I can make MYSELF laugh. Seriously, I could be in a room by myself and probably find something entertaining and just laugh out loud for no reason. Laughter is the best medicine and it really does make me feel better.

Of course I have PLENTY more than I'm thankful for but that could go on and on and on and who really has time for that? I know I don't, so I will put this list to rest for now.

Happy Thanksgiving! 

Love,
Tiare

I Like Sugar...

but that's a lot of sugar! I had my glucose tolerance test today to test for gestational diabetes. I drank my oh so yummy high glucose solution an hour before my doctor's appointment. I like that they did it that way, instead of having to drink it there & wait for a whole hour. Anyway, when we got to the doctor's office, they drew my blood. I'm not sure when they'll be calling back with the results, but I hope that everything is okay & that I pass. That would be great!

I also had another cervical length scan & it was measuring at 3.2 cm. 4 weeks ago, it was measuring at 5 cm. This past week I've been having menstrual-like cramps that come & go, also some thicker discharge. I was worried that maybe it could be my mucus plug starting to come out, so I told the nurse about that & she had my doctor do an exam to check my cervix. He told me that my cervix is opened a little bit on the outside, but the ultrasound showed that I'm still closed on the inside... which is good, so he's not too worried about that for now. I'm still a little worried though because I googled what the average cervical length is during the 28th week, and it showed that 3.2 cm is average at around 32 weeks. I'm only 28 weeks! But again, my doctor says he's not too worried.

I'm sure it's natural to feel scared. I just fear that I'll go into early labor again like I did with my first son. He was born at 23 weeks though, & I'm thankful I've made it this far to 28 weeks. I hope my cervix doesn't shorten any faster. So now my doctor wants to see me again next week to do a fetal fibronectin test to see if I'm at risk of preterm labor, along with another cervical length scan to see if it's shortening even more or opening, along with my usual weekly progesterone shot. Only about 8 more of those shots to endure! Lol. They're not bad though, I'm used to getting poked all the time now after all I've been through with my first pregnancy & my gallbladder surgery. He also told me to take it easy from now on-- try to stay off of my feet as much as possible, no intercourse, stuff like that. It's hard for me to just relax though because I'm the one who does all the chores around the house so I have to try to not stress about how messy the house is =\ However, Mike did say that he was going to start his "nesting" stage next month & start cleaning the house for Caleb & me. I sure hope so! I had so many plans to clean the house, finish our baby registry... & how am I supposed to go grocery shopping for our Thanksgiving dinner now?! Sigh. It's all worth it though, to keep him in as long as I can :) Other than all of that, the baby is growing properly and his heartbeat is still normal.

I'm just taking each day as it comes, trying to enjoy my pregnancy. I'm trying not to let the negative thoughts take over, & I just remember that we've been blessed with our new baby. I'm hanging in there! Caleb will come when he's ready. (But I still hope I carry to full term, lol.) It's so hard not to worry! Aaaahhhaahhah!

Love,
Tiare

28 Weeks

Pregnancy Highlights

How far along: 28 weeks

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +15 pounds

Maternity Clothes: I'm wearing a lot of my regular clothes and a couple of maternity jeans.

Best Moment this Week: I'm finally in the 3rd trimester :)

Gender: BOY! Caleb Amana Johnson

Movement: He is very active! I love it!

Food Cravings: Sweets are my favorites right now

Food aversions: None.

What I Miss: Hawaii! :(

Sleep: Sleeping okay right now, it's just really hard to get comfortable!

What I am looking forward to: Thanksgiving next week! :) Although I am bummed I won't be in Vegas with my family for the holidays.

Love,

Tiare

4D Ultrasound

Oh those lips - I want to kiss them. Eeeek! We are so happy with these 4D ultrasound pictures. We also got a DVD copy of the whole session - so I get to see it whenever I want.

His eyes peeked open a little. He looks so snugly in there :) Anyway, *random thought* I went to my weekly progesterone shot appointment on Tuesday. I also got the flu shot. I finally remembered to ask my doctor about it. My weight was 150 and Caleb's bpm was 145.

Mike calls this the "Tebow Time" picture, lol. Sigh, I wish I could see little Caleb all the time. It's always the best feeling whenever we get to see him. This time we saw him yawn, open his eyes, and move around a lot. He kept wanting to lay on his belly, so the ultrasound tech kept having me flip over to my sides a few times to get him to flip back over. It was so cute, it looked like he just wanted to burrow his face into me.. lol. He looks like daddy, for sure. He is absolutely precious.

You can really tell he has daddy's nose in this picture. The ultrasound tech was so surprised how much he looks like his dad, haha.

These are only a few of my favorites from the millions of ultrasound pictures we got with our 4D ultrasound. Now, we just need him here! But take your time, little one! No rush.

Love,

Tiare

Cool Services

I want! When I get a job, I'll definitely have to subscribe to these 2 services: Birchbox and Citrus Lane.

Birchbox is monthly subscription service, so you pay $10/month... but you can also get a year long subscription as well. Every month you get 4-5 deluxe high end samples from beauty brands like, NARS, Laura Mercier, Kiehls, etc. The products range from skincare products to makeup products, so it's really really cool. I just really want to try this because trying out new products can very expensive and sometimes the products don't work out for me and it just leaves me disappointed because I feel like I just wasted my money. So, with Birchbox... I'll be able to try out new products and I'm only paying $10/month. So if I like the sample size, I can go ahead and purchase the full size version of the product. I think this whole concept is absolutely genius and I just have to try it out.

Now, I don't have the baby yet, but when I do... I want someone to get me a Citrus Lane subscription. It's another monthly subscription, but this one is $25/month and shipping is free and included. Every month you get a box full of adorable baby necessities and goodies based on the baby's age and sex. They're all products recommended by parents and these products are worth $30-$45. It's like having my own team of personal shoppers dedicated to finding the best products for my child. So, I just really want to try this because I'll get to try out products I may have never even heard of or just products I may have never even thought to buy. Again, I think these subscription service concepts are just awesome.

Love,
Tiare

I Really Miss...

I've been reflecting about the joys and pains of pregnancy, and I really miss being able to sleep on my stomach, or any other comfortable position. I have never been soooo uncomfortable! I also miss being able to breathe normally. Ugh. Not fun. However, I am very happy and thankful to be pregnant again.

Love,
Tiare

Why are there so many bottles?

Over the past couple of weeks, I've been obsessed with baby gear. I think I've settled on a stroller, a swing, an infant car seat, and have looked at lots of little things like swaddle wraps, pacifiers, and a baby bathtub.

But one item has continued to confuse me... the bottle.

There are so many options out. How do I know which ones work great? I want to do a combination of breastfeeding and bottle-feeding.

My main thing is that I want the most natural transition from breast to bottle. Since this will basically be like me being a first time mom, I'm pretty certain I'll have to experiment and find a routine and bottles that work best for me -- breastfeeding most of the time, but letting my husband do a late night feeding from the bottle so I can get some sleep. I also don't want to nurse in public too often, so we'll use bottles at a restaurant, store, etc.

There's Dr. Brown's... there are these Tommee Tippees that claim to be the most natural transition from breast to bottle... there's Eco-friendly options like Evenflo glass, and there's Avent.

Ahhhhhhh! That's only to name a few. I'm overwhelmed!

Love,
Tiare

I've been pregnant for...

186 days! I can't believe it, and how fast the time has gone. Only 94 days to go. Looking back to that Monday at the end of May when we found out, it seems like so long ago.

Anyway, I wanted to write another note to baby Caleb!

To our darling little Caleb...

We can't wait to welcome you into this big world. Although we really aren't prepared just yet, we are certainly getting anxious to meet you soon. You love to move around around bedtime, and sometimes after breakfast. Sometimes you feel the need to kick me a few times really hard, but I don't mind as that eases my fears and lets me know that you are doing just fine in there. When you kick for your daddy, his face lights up every time like it's the first time he's felt you.

We wonder about you all the time. Will you have your daddy's eyes or my eyes? Will you have lots of wavy hair? Curly hair? What kind of boy will you be? If you're anything like your daddy, we are in for some fun! You will be outgoing, and keep us all on our toes with your adventures and jokes. We'll be telling crazy stories about you for years to come. If you are like me, you'll be a little more reserved, a bit more shy and quiet. Or maybe you'll be the perfect combination of the two of us, a little wild with a soft side.

I wonder what sports you'll love to play and how you'll do in school. I hope I can be the one to teach you how to ride your bike without training wheels for the first time. I hope I can be the kind of mom that makes REAL good school lunches, lets you stay up late on special occasions, and reads to you every night before bed no matter how busy I may be.

I can't wait to share your first holidays and your first birthday and create traditions over the years as our little family. I can't wait to cheer for you in the stands as you make your first touchdown in football or basket in basketball or home run in baseball. You are ours to enjoy for years and years to come.

Though we haven't met, I love you already. I know my love for you can only grow, and I'm excited for that. I'm excited to meet you. Mommy will always be your biggest supporter, your number one fan, and your greatest admirer.

Love,
Your Mommy 
XOXO

The First Five Things You Can Think Of...

Five names I go by:
1. Trey
2. Tee
3. Aurie
4. Tiare
5. Babe

Five jobs I have had in my life:
1. Sales associate at Agaci Too
2. Ride attendant at the Adventuredome
3. Cashier at L&L Hawaiian Barbecue
4. Recovery team representative at JCPenny
5. Sales associate at Frederick's of Hollywood

Five places I have lived:
1. Honolulu
2. Las Vegas
3. Colorado Springs
4. Phenix City
5. --

Five favorite drinks:
1. water
2. iced tea
3. coffee - hot and iced
4. Sprite
5. lemonade

Five TV shows that I watch:
1. How I Met Your Mother
2. Dexter
3. Weeds
4. House Hunters
5. Modern Family

Five TV shows I used to watch:
1. Family Guy
2. Army Wives
3. Entourage
4. Friday Night Lights
5. House

Five places I have been:
1. California
2. Arkansas
3. New York
4. New Jersey
5. Georgia

Five people that text me regularly:
1. Mike
2. mommy
3. Malia
4. Jamie M.
5. Jamie Z.

Five of my favorite foods:
1. steak
2. chicken
3. pasta
4. pizza
5. sushi

Five things I am looking forward to:
1. Caleb!
2. moving back to Vegas next year
3. having a job, hopefully next year!
4. dessert tonight. Deciding between a brownie or an ice cream parfait, haha!
5. the rest of my life! Family, friends, graphic design, love, traveling, puppies, more babies, everything and more.

Love,
Tiare

26 Weeks

I actually took these pictures yesterday, but 1 day of belly growing doesn't really make a difference.. I think? Lol.

Pregnancy Highlights

How far along: 26 weeks

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +12 pounds

Maternity Clothes: Still just those maternity jeans and I LOVE them!

Best Moment this Week: Hmm, not too sure. I guess researching baby registry items. Fun, lol.

Gender: Boy! :)

Movement: YES! :) I have felt kicks and wiggles! I can even see him moving around in my belly, it looks like waves in the ocean.. lol. Such a great feeling!

Food Cravings: Nothing different really!

Food aversions: None.

What I Miss: Sleeping on my stomach.

Sleep: Still sleeping pretty good!

What I am looking forward to: The 3D/4D ultrasound next Friday! :)

Love,

Tiare

8 Things.

8 things that I am looking forward to:

1. Baby Caleb arriving. My due date is in 99 days!
2. Moving back to Las Vegas!
3. Being a mommy!
4. Seeing my family and friends more often when we do move back!
5. Looking for a job out in Las Vegas.
6. To finally make some money again when I find a job.
7. Being able to help pay off my student loans!
8. Buying a house and being able to decorate and paint however I want.

8 things I did yesterday:

1. Woke up next to Mike.
2. Ate our leftovers from Olive Garden.
3. Stayed home all day.
4. Watched TV.
5. Drank water.
6. Ate the yummy Zeppolis from Olive Garden!
7. Ate Halloween candy.
8. Researched items for the baby registry.

8 things I wish I could do:

1. Be a successful graphic designer.
2. Clean my house and have it STAY that way.
3. Fly to Vegas to see family and friends whenever I want. I miss them.
4. Eat anything I want and not get fat. How cool would that be?
5. Shop. All the time!
6. Go get spa treatments.
7. Pay my student loans. All of it, right now.
8. Buy a home.

8 shows I watch:

1. Dexter
2. ESPN First Take
3. New Girl
4. Happy Endings
5. Modern Family
6. Fringe
7. Pretty Little Liars
8. HLN Morning Express

Love,
Tiare

Unemployment Woes

Oh how I hate being "unemployed." I search for graphic design positions, but here in Phenix City, AL/Columbus, GA... there's just no such thing. There's a few small "mom and pop" graphic businesses, but none of them are hiring because there's no need for more staff in such a small town with little graphic design needs.

When we left Vegas, I had every intention of finding a job out here - but it hasn't worked the way I hoped, so I've just doing "whatever I want"as a stay at home wife. I was going to the gym to keep busy for a while, but since the pregnancy, I slowed it down to just doing yoga during the first trimester. Second trimester came and I just stopped working out all together (I admit, because of just pure laziness...) I was going to start going back to the gym, but the whole gallbladder surgery happened. I think when third trimester hits (in less than 3 weeks) I'll start back up with yoga again.

Anyway, yeah.. as far as being employed, my "job" right now is just cooking for my husband and making sure all of our bills are paid. I do love having all of this extra time to spend with my husband when he comes home from work... it's just that I would like to have some money flowing from my end too. This is only temporary, I know this. Vegas will have more opportunities for me when we move back. For now, I'm thankful that Mike has a steady income being in the Army. We both just REALLY really REALLY want to be financially secure so our future can be set!

Fingers crossed for a WONDERFUL future job,
Tiare

P.S.
Happy Halloween!

The First 25 Random Thoughts...

I saw this on another blog and thought it was a good idea.

1.) I'm in love with my husband, it's real, and it's REALLY amazing. He's everything I've ever wanted, and so much more.
2.) I love my parents! :)
3.) I want to see Zero Dark Thirty.
4.) I want a puppy. An English or French bulldog.
5.) I have the best sisters. I'm just saying.
6.) It's cold and windy here in Phenix City where the HIGH today is 62 degrees and the low is 33 degrees.
7.) I am excited to get out of Phenix City and move back to Vegas. :)
8.) I just can't wait to be closer to our families.
9.) My favorite candies right now are: peanut M&M's and Twix.
10.) I don't like coconut.
11.) I'm excited for the baby :D
12.) I like Moscato, it's my favorite wine.
13.) I'll own you at Flip Cup.
14.) Groceries never last as long as I think they will.
15.) I love going out to restaurants.
16.) I don't know what I'm going to do with my life after Fantasy Football is over.
17.) I'd rather watch TV show marathons, rather than movies.
18.) I really want a nice big kitchen, new kitchen stuff, and more home decor.
19.) I miss Hawaii!
20.) I want to learn how to play the guitar.
21.) I love to sing, especially in the car (because no one can hear me).
22.) I love flowery scents.
23.) My husband wants a 100" TV. (Why? Sigh, smh).
24.) I want to work, I need a job so I can help out with the bills.
25.) My belly button looks like Frankenstein, I can't wait to get these stitches out.

Love,
Tiare