12 weeks

We're pretty good about going for walks each night, especially since we got JJ. However, he has a bad habit of leading the way and pulling us through our path. So, a couple of months ago, we got the Gentle Leader collar. This was supposed to be the miracle cure for pulling dogs. It fits over his snout and around his head, so when he tries to pull away, his head turns back toward the leash. It's tight enough so that he can't pull it off, but it fits behind his mouth, so he can breathe just fine. It really does work.

Unfortunately, JJ doesn't seem to think it's quite the miracle that we do. Now, when we get his leash and tell him we're going for a walk, he tries to squirm every way he can to keep from wearing the dreaded collar. It's actually quite funny to watch. Initially, when we would get back, he would try pawing it off himself. However, now he's simply resigned himself to hanging his head in misery upon return. I almost feel bad for him and would think about not forcing him into such a "terrible" device, but it really does work!

At any rate, time is flying by so quickly! I can't believe that I'm nearly through the first trimester. I really can't complain since it's been relatively easy for me. Since it's been a few weeks, I thought I'd post another belly picture. I know there doesn't appear to be much change, but at least I'll have these pics to look back and remember when I could see my toes :-) Here you go:

Another learning experience

I had my 11 week doctors appointment today. Since Jason missed the first ultrasound, he got out of work early to make it to this one! He couldn't figure out why they schedule an appointment at a certain time, get you settled in the room, and then have you wait for 30 minutes. Oh, it's so nice that he's finally experiencing what we women have to experience EVERY time we go to the obstetrician! Due to boredom, he did educate himself by reading the only magazine available in the room - Conceive Magazine :-)

We got to hear the baby's heartbeat for the first time today! 161 beats per minute. It was such an amazingly sweet sound. Just another milestone to make it all seem real. Everything else looked good, too. The doctor said that the baby is growing, although I really can't tell yet.

In some ways, I can't wait for these months to pass by, but on the other hand I know that I'll be somewhat sad when they're gone. You only get to experience these things once - first ultrasound, first heartbeat. I guess I'll just try to enjoy all of these moments along the way, and thank God for all of the blessings He's poured out on us!

Double Digits

I am now officially 10 weeks. I know it still doesn't seem like I'm very far along, but I feel like this is a mini-milestone. Only a few more weeks, and I'll be through the first trimester!! Of course, Jason and I appreciate your continued prayers through the entire pregnancy, but especially these first weeks.

No baby bump yet. I'm hoping that doesn't show up for awhile. I'm kind of worried about buying maternity clothes. What do I buy? Where do I buy it? What's my size? Do they make short maternity pants??? Knowing me, I'm sure you realize how much I like to plan. No, I NEED to plan. So far, though, I've gotten a lot of good advice from friends, so I know it will all work out.

I'm still feeling relatively good. Somehow I've gotten away with basically no morning sickness. Strange cravings continue to catch me from time to time. Recently, I can't get enough of baby dill pickles and strawberry ice cream - although not mixed together. You know, though, that doesn't sound so bad after all...