This little boy has changed my life in a way I didn't expect. I have never felt this kind of love. I just want to protect him, and cuddle him forever. I could stare at him all day, and hold him in my arms like nothing else matters. I have gained a whole new perspective in life now. My days are consumed by this tiny human, and I wouldn't have it any other way! Adam James, you have brought so much to our lives!

My Birth Story

On September 8th, 2017 our lives got a whole lot sweeter! Our baby boy, Adam James Romaniuk was born at 2:51am weighing 6lbs. 13oz. and measuring 20" long. This day, is the best day of my life! Meeting our son for the first time is a moment I will never forget.

My birth story isn't what I had expected at all, in a good way! I didn't have a birth plan, because I didn't want to set myself up for disappointment if nothing went accordingly. I knew I didn't want a c-section, and I really wanted to avoid getting an epidural, but again, I had no idea what to expect, so I knew these wishes of mine could potentially go out the window.

I had an ultrasound scheduled on Thursday September 7th, at 41 weeks pregnant. I hadn't had any signs of dilation at 40 weeks, so there was a good chance of induction. Anders and I got ready that morning, put the hospital bags in the car, and dropped the dog off at my parents. After our ultrasound appointment at 1pm, we went for lunch, and headed to the hospital. 

Once we got there, they put me in a room, and monitored the baby for about 30 min. Then the OB came in to check if I had any dilation. I was at 1 cm, so they went ahead and put in cervidil, which is a cervical ripener (a tampon looking thing that has a hormone gel on it). It can take about 12 hours to work and the purpose of this, is to help the cervix dilate and efface before they can start induction with a pitocin drip the next day. They put the cervidil in at 3:30pm, and monitored me and the baby for an hour before sending us home. We were told to come back at 3:30am to see how my cervix has progressed, and then go from there. 

Well, as soon as we left the hospital around 4:30pm, I started feeling some contractions. They were very irregular, and I didn't really know what to think of them. We went for dinner with my parents when I started to become more uncomfortable. Once we got home, I laid in bed, and focused on timing my contractions. They were very close together, anywhere from 2-5 min apart, and 30 sec. long. Was I in labour?! I got dressed, and we drove back to the hospital. We got there around 8:30pm, they hooked me up to the monitors again, and we waited for the OB to come in and see how I had progressed. When she checked me, she said I was still only 1 cm, and about 66% effaced. How could I have contractions so close together, and still only be 1 cm. I guess I was experiencing "mini contractions" because they were still too short. She did a stretch and sweep, and then suggested I get a morphine/gravol shot in the hip to help take the edge off so I could go home and get some sleep. We were told to come back at 7am, as the cervidil was still in place, and I hadn't really progressed much. I was disappointed, because what I was feeling had to be the beginning of something! On the drive home, my contractions started to become more intense. I thought, this morphine shot should kick in soon, and hopefully I can lay down and get through these contractions a bit easier in my own bed. From the sounds of it, my labour was in the very early stage, and I still had a long road ahead of me!

We got home at 10:30pm, I put on my sweats, and laid down. The fetal position was the only position that felt comfortable. I tried to sleep, but the contractions were getting SO painful, and I wasn't getting much of a break in between. Very quickly they became so intense and strong, that sleeping was NOT an option! I tried laying down (in all positions), getting on my hands and knees, standing up, walking, sitting on the toilet, leaning over a chair, leaning on Anders, having Anders rub my back, not having Anders rub my back...NOTHING seemed to ease the pain! By this point my contractions were about 1.5-2.5 min apart, and lasting anywhere from 30 sec-90 sec. I was waiting for the length of them to become more consistent, or for my water to break before heading back to the hospital despite not being able to talk through my contractions. The last thing I wanted, was to be sent home again. This continued for about 3 hours! Then, during one contraction, I got out of bed and started bleeding. I ran to the bathroom, and quite a bit of blood was coming out. Anders was like "we need to go to the hospital now!", I agreed! 

I was holding my crotch the whole way to the hospital, saying to Anders "the baby is coming!" "I don't want to have this baby in the car!" The pressure I felt was insane, and I had such a strong urge to push!! It was 2:15am when we got to the hospital, Anders wheeled me into Labour and Delivery. They got me into a triage room right away, as I mentioned I had the cervidil put in earlier that day. They checked me right away, and sure enough the doctor said "you are 10 cm dilated!" I was not surprised considering the amount of pain and pressure I was feeling. I still think it is funny that I did all my active labour at home, and how fast I went from 1 cm dilated to a full 10 cm!! They gave me some laughing gas during my contractions while they quickly tried to get the cervidil out, which at this point was lodged behind the baby's head. As soon as they got it out, they moved me into the labour and delivery room, broke my water, and I started to push right away! It felt good, in the sense that it relieved the pain of the contractions, however feeling everything else, was quite uncomfortable. The burning ring of fire is so true! I pushed for about 15 min, and at 2:51am our baby boy was born! It is so hard to describe all the emotions I had when they immediately put him on my chest! It is nothing I have ever felt before. I couldn't stop staring at him! I guess at one point his heart rate dropped while I was pushing, so they had a NICU team in the room ready to go if they needed, but as soon as he came out, he was healthy and doing very well, I didn't even notice them leave! Everyone at the hospital were so great! All the doctors and nurses took very good care of us, especially with how quickly we came in! They were there right away and made everything go smoothly!

Our sweet Adam James, we love him so much! He is named after two very important people in our lives! Adam, after Anders grandfather who passed away ten years ago, a man I wish I could have gotten to know better, and a man who was a huge influence and figure in Anders life growing up. James, after my dad, my hero, my big teddy bear who has always loved me unconditionally, and who has always supported Anders and I in everything we do. We are so grateful for the impact these two men have had in our lives, and we are so happy to honour them through our son. 

40 weeks: Happy Due Date baby!

How far along?

40 weeks! We have made it to the end!

How big is the peanut? 
The size of a watermelon! He can weigh anywhere from 6.2-9.2 lbs! 

Total weight gain/loss?
I am 160 lbs, which brings my total weight gain this pregnancy to 32 lbs!

Maternity clothes?

Only when I have to go out. At home you will find me in nothing but booty shorts and a sports bra!

Sleep? 
Not great. Anders and I have both been having a hard time sleeping these days. I think its our bodies preparing us for less sleep!

Best moment this week?

Just relaxing and waiting for baby to come! It was so nice to not have anything going on this last week! 

Symptoms?
-Still getting some nausea
-Body aches
-Having some cramping and tightening 
-Swollen feet! 

Food cravings?

My food cravings are changing by the minute! Banana's, peanut butter froyo, pancakes,
cheese, pasta, fruit, chocolate, and cereal are all among the many cravings I have daily! Honestly, just give me all the food!

Food aversions?

Nothing

Gender?

Baby boy :)

Labour signs?

Nothing...I had my last OB appointment on Tuesday, and I was still 0 cm dilated. We talked about an ultrasound for next Thursday when I am 41 weeks, and possible induction depending on how baby is doing. I am really hoping I go into labor on my own in the next week!

Belly button in or out?

Mostly out.

What I miss?

Being comfortable. Getting in and out of the car is my LEAST favourite thing to do right now! Maybe if we had an SUV it would be easier, but our car is pretty low to the ground making it difficult to pull myself up out of it.

What I am looking forward to?
Going into labour!!!! The anticipation is killing me, but what I am most excited for, is getting to hold my baby for the first time!! I can't wait to see what he looks like!

Milestones?

We have officially made it to our due date!

Bump?

I am enjoying my bump while I still have it! So thankful I haven't gotten any stretch marks, but I have heard they can still make an appearance after birth. 

39 weeks

How far along?

39 weeks!

How big is the peanut? 
The size of a pumpkin! Baby has most likely reached his birth weight now.  

Total weight gain/loss?

I gained 1.8 lbs this week (mostly in cupcakes), bringing my weight to 159.4. Officially gained more than 30 lbs! 

Maternity clothes?

I have been wearing my maternity leggings a lot this week, and loose dresses!

Sleep? 
Still waking up through out the night. My hips are starting to hurt, so I can't sleep on one side for too long. 

Best moment this week?

My mother in law got married on Saturday! A lot of my husbands family lives out of town, so it was nice to see everyone, and spend some time with family before the baby comes.

Symptoms?
-Lower back pain
-My feet are a bit swollen, and I wake up in the night with my hands swollen too. My wedding rings still fit in the morning, so the swelling isn't too bad.
-Still getting some nausea.
-Tired! Bring on the naps!

Food cravings?

Gnocchi! My favourite Italian dish.

Food aversions?

Nothing

Gender?

Baby boy :)

Labour signs?

None! I had my OB appointment last Friday, and when he checked my cervix, I was still 0 cm dilated. I am hoping I will have started to dilate when he checks me at my next appointment on Tuesday!

Belly button in or out?

As popped out as it is going to get.

What I miss?

Red wine, especially with all the pasta cravings I have been having!

What I am looking forward to?
My hubby gets 8 weeks off work when the baby comes, and with Fall being our favourite season, we are excited to spend this time together as a family of 4 (have to include our fur baby, Bear). We are excited for trips to the farmers market, going for walks in the crisp Fall air, and starting new traditions with our little guy.

Milestones?

We only have 1 week left! This pregnancy has flown by, and I can't believe we get to meet him so soon! Our lives are about to change forever! Baby boy is fully developed and ready to come any day now!

Bump?

Still getting bigger!

38 weeks

How far along?

38 weeks!

How big is the peanut? 
The size of a Swiss Chard. Baby weighs about 7 lbs now and is 20" long (give or take) 

Total weight gain/loss?

I gained 1.2 lbs this week, bringing my weight to 157.6. So far I have gained 29 lbs this pregnancy!

Maternity clothes?

If I could just not wear clothes, that would be great!

Sleep? 
I am waking up a lot more through out the night.

Best moment this week?

I had my last day of work on Saturday. When I got in that morning, there was a mini surprise going away party for me! I was in shock! Everyone was there, and said something sweet to me! I felt so appreciated and loved! It was a great way to end my last day of work.

Symptoms?
-Lower back pain
-Nausea!!!
-Still getting mild menstrual cramps here and there

Food cravings?

Pizza, and Fruit (peaches and strawberries)

Food aversions?

Nothing

Gender?

Baby boy :)

Labour signs?

None yet. He seems pretty cozy in there!

Belly button in or out?

As popped out as it is going to get.

What I miss?

Red wine

What I am looking forward to?
Meeting this baby boy! I am pretty much ready now! Hospital bag is packed, house has been completely decluttered and organized, and the freezer is stocked (thanks to my mom)! Now I am just resting and waiting! Too bad you can't bank sleep hours!

Milestones?

2 weeks until my due date! This is such a great feeling, and knowing that in a few weeks we get to meet this little guy!

Bump?

I think this baby has dropped, because my bump feels low! 

37 weeks

How far along?

37 weeks!

How big is the peanut? 
He is the size of a winter melon, and can weigh up to 6.5 lbs! 

Total weight gain/loss?

I gained 0.8 lbs this week, bringing my weight to 156.4 lbs.

Maternity clothes?

I picked up a sports bra to wear from now on. Regular bra's and the one nursing bra I was wearing, just weren't comfortable anymore. My ribs have expanded, so any pressure there makes it so uncomfortable/hard to breath! 

Sleep? 
It varies each night. There were a few nights last I week didn't sleep well, and other nights I slept great.

Best moment this week?

-We installed the car seat!
-I had my first OB appointment where he checked my cervix to see how things are progressing. Baby's head is right down there, and he is getting ready! It's crazy to think he can come any day now!

Symptoms?
-I am still getting some menstrual cramps here and there.
-I have to pee all the time!
-I feel like I have the flu! My body feels weak and I have been dealing with nausea on and off.

Food cravings?

Peaches!

Food aversions?

Nothing

Gender?

Baby boy :)

Labour signs?

None

Belly button in or out?

As popped out as it is going to get.

What I miss?

Anything I miss pre pregnancy is really not that important when it comes to carrying and growing my baby. I am so grateful for this opportunity, and I have loved being pregnant this whole time (even during the hard times).

What I am looking forward to?
This may sound weird, but I am looking forward to my labour and delivery experience. Maybe it is the anticipation of what it is going to be like for me, and how my body is going to handle it. We will be finding out very shortly! Only 3 more weeks!

Milestones?

Well at 37 weeks, baby is pretty much full term! He can come anytime now, and we will be so happy whenever he decides to show up! 

Bump?

Yup, and still no stretch marks-fingers crossed!!!

Nursery Reveal

As soon as I found out we were having a little boy, I knew exactly what I wanted to do for the nursery! If you know me, then you know I love grey, cream, white, more grey and did I say grey? My husband calls our home 50 shades of grey for a reason, so it will be no surprise that I kept things pretty neutral in baby boy's nursery. 

I built the room around a piece we have wanted to incorporate into our baby's room for a long time! Our friends we met on our honeymoon have a company called Near & Deer, and since we started following their growing business, Anders and I talked about how we would love to put one of their deer heads in our baby's room someday! I love the look of the simple white deer head with gold antlers, so from there I started to mix in the subtle elements of woodland creatures, pops of gold and soft textiles to create a cozy environment for our little one.

The hubby and I worked on some DIY details that really pulled this space together. I have always wanted a cream crib, and I couldn't find one that I loved with out paying a fortune for it. I decided to get crafty, buy a gently used crib from Kijiji, some Annie Sloan Chalk Paint (I used "Old White"), Dark Wax for antiquing, and I refinished the crib myself. Would I do this again? Probably not! Painting a crib takes a lot of time and patience, but I absolutely LOVE the way it turned out. It was definitely worth it, and it only cost us $320 in the end (time not included)! My husband built a shelf with a bar for me to hang some of baby's knit sweaters on, and he also made a growth chart ruler for the wall.

His nursery has become my favourite room in our home. It is so nice to see my vision come to life and pretty soon, our little guy is going to be able to enjoy this room with me. I am so happy it is finally finished, and I can share it with you all!

Sources:

Wall Colour | Benjamin Moore Rockport Gray

Dresser, Change Pad & Cover | West Coast Kids

Glider | Wayfair

Round Mirror | Homesense 

Deer Head | Near & Deer 

Table Lamp | Homesense

 Side Table | Homesense

 Wooden Frames above crib | Homesense

 Toy box & Stool | Homesense

Knit Ottoman | Homesense

Rug | Homesense

Cable Knit & Striped Blankets | Babies R Us

Deer Blanket | Homesense

Woodland Animal Prints | Etsy The Crown Prints

Scripture Print | Etsy Aenon Art Work

Crib Sheet and Skirt | Pottery Barn Kids

Curtains | Homesense

Laundry Bin & Bear Book Basket | Homesense