37 Weeks

Today I’ve hit 37 weeks! My baby is now considered full term, which means it would probably be able to survive on its own if I went into labor (A baby is considered full term between 37 and 42 weeks; anything before that is considered premature, and anything after that is considered post-term).


Weight this week: 137 – up a little over 2 pounds since December. I’m not sure why my weight gain has slowed. It feels like I’m growing bigger ALL the time. And I actually lost weight last week. Weird. Has anyone else experienced this with their pregnancy?

Measurements around largest part of my tummy:37.5″ – I’ve gained 1 inch since last time!

Measurements around where my waist used to be:33″ – up 1 inch from 4 weeks ago.

And now I’m gonna do a bit of complaining. But you have my friend Lauren to thank that this won’t be a completely downer post. She’s inspired me to be more thankful, so for each complaint I make I’ll list something I’m grateful for. Here goes.

• Bending over – Whenever I try to put on my socks or bend down to pick something up, I give a little grunt because my big fat belly is in the way.
• Sleeping – Another way said belly gets in the way. It’s getting more and more difficult to find comfortable positions for sleeping. Not mention the bathroom breaks in the middle of the night…
• Speaking of bathroom breaks… Seems like they’re becoming more and more frequent. Which makes going to town a major pain.
• Hard Belly – At random moments my belly will suddenly become rock-hard and feel like a lead bowling ball.
• Hiccups – Occasionally this kid will develop a severe case of the hiccups. It was cute at first, but now it’s pretty annoying. And its other movements are becoming more forceful as well. It can kick my ribs pretty hard.
• Stretch Marks – Le sigh. I was hoping to avoid them, but I guess it’s genetic and there’s not much you can do to avoid them. But I’m surprised to find that I’m not too stressed about them.
• Tiredness/Waddle – Lately it seems that all of my energy is just sapped away. And my mode of walking has switched to a bit of waddle. So attractive.

But now I must list a few things I’m thankful for.

1) Reuben – I am so thankful that he is able to be home so much these days. He keeps me happy and motivated.

2) A Non-hectic Life – I know some people really enjoy being on the go constantly (and that’s fine), but that’s not what makes me energized. I’m glad that we don’t have a ton of commitments.

3) A Relatively Pain-Free Pregnancy – I know, I just finished complaining about all my aches and pains, but I realize that some women have it a LOT harder than I do. And I barely had any morning sickness in the beginning of pregnancy, so the first two trimesters were pretty comfortable.

4) Pretty Things in the Mail – I have been purchasing a few lovely things that I had wanted for a long time (plus some baby essentials). It’s so nice to have something to look forward to.

5) Sunshine – Lately the sun has been shining for most of the day. I think I would feel much more gloomy if it was grey and cloudy.

6) Simple Pleasures – A good cup of tea. Lovely reading material. Fresh baked bread. Knitting projects. Sometimes it’s the simple things in life that can give so much joy.

7) This Little Life Inside of Me – Even though it’s the source of so much discomfort at the moment, I’m so thankful for this precious little life. I can’t wait to hold him/her in my arms.

And there’s my 37 weeks update!

24 Responses to 37 Weeks

1. Erin 
   January 23rd, 2013 at 6:29 pm
   I’ve enjoyed reading your blog for a long time, but this is the first time I’ve commented. We’re also a young couple due with our first just a few days behind you…so I can totally empathize with your feelings about the big belly! My hubby works from home and your post reminded me how wonderful it is to have him there and available to help me more often than if he were gone all day. Best wishes on your little one’s arrival!
2. Erin 
   January 23rd, 2013 at 6:32 pm
   I’ve enjoyed reading your blog for a long time, but this is the first time I’ve commented. We’re also a young couple due with our first just a few days behind you…so I can totally empathize with your feelings about the big belly! My hubby works from home and your post reminded me how wonderful it is to have him there and available to help me more often than if he were gone all day. Best wishes on your little one’s arrival!
3. DessertForTwo 
   January 23rd, 2013 at 9:31 pm
   You’re so gorgeous, Erica! Your little family is beautiful :)
4. Lauren 
   January 23rd, 2013 at 11:49 pm
   I started visiting your blog for your recipes at first, but when I saw your adorable pregnancy photos I just had to come see! I am a nursing student who loves everything about pregnancy and labor & delivery. It is wonderful to hear about how you are doing and I wish you and your family well!
5. Begoña 
   January 24th, 2013 at 6:54 am
   Everything that’s happening to you it’s quite normal. The hard belly thing is pretty annoying at first but then you get used to it. Those are the so called Braxton Hicks Contractions and they help the baby to get the right position for the labour. I stopped gaining weight at the end, I read on What to expect when… that’s normal even though i feel more and more enormous each day. This three last weeks are pretty difficult because all the anticipation and the discomfort but just try to enjoy it.
   My baby was born a month ago and she’s the most beautiful amazing thing in the world. I’ve never seen something so wonderful in my life, she’s like a little miracle and I made her. That’s kind of amazing, eh?
6. jill 
   January 24th, 2013 at 7:17 am
   I had a lot of those “complaints” with my 1st and 3rd babies….low weight gain at the end, hard belly, hiccups…..bet it’s a GIRL! Congratulations! Every time I see your emails pop up I think it’s the big announcement. Take care in this frozen MN winter weather. Good thing you don’t have too many commitments that you need to leave home for.
7. Emily O. 
   January 24th, 2013 at 8:42 am
   Haha, like others have said….all of these things are pretty “normal” with pregnancy! It’s all worth it when your baby is out and you hold him/her for the first time :)
8. Elizabeth 
   January 24th, 2013 at 9:46 am
   Feel good Erica. Thank you for sharing.
9. Laura Brown 
   January 24th, 2013 at 12:46 pm
   I’m going to disagree with Jill on the baby – I think it’s a boy! If you only had slight nausea in the beginning and aren’t craving carby foods, it’s a boy. If you have nausea and cravings, it’s a girl. Congrats on the baby – I’ve been there twice myself, each time gets a little easier. Be glad for the slow weight gain – it’ll make it easier to lose after baby arrives. If you think the “hard belly” is tough now, just wait until the baby drops! You’re in for some fun then! Everything shifts downward, your whole center of gravity and you really waddle after that. It’s wonderful though – cherish these days. Don’t worry about the pain of labor either – it’s quickly and easily forgotten. Well, maybe forgiven, not forgotten. Be happy and healthy. Here’s to praying for a healthy and happy baby, no matter if it’s a boy or a girl. :)
10. Erica Lea 
    January 24th, 2013 at 5:41 pm
    Erin: That’s so cool that we’re just a few days apart! It will be interesting to see how far apart we have our babies. :) Yes, it is so nice to have Reuben close so much. Wish it could be like this year-round! Hope you have a safe delivery and healthy baby!
11. Erica Lea 
    January 24th, 2013 at 5:42 pm
    DessertForTwo: Aw, thanks, Christina! :)
12. Erica Lea 
    January 24th, 2013 at 5:43 pm
    Lauren: Thank you! That must be so exciting to be a nurse. Good to hear that it’s something you love! :)
13. Erica Lea 
    January 24th, 2013 at 5:46 pm
    Begoña: Ah! I had no idea they were Braxton Hicks. I thought that the crampy feelings I’ve been having were those – or maybe they both are? I have so much to learn! :) Good to hear that it’s not weird that my weight gain has leveled off.
    Congratulations on the birth of your daughter! It IS amazing that we grow these precious little lives inside of us.
14. Erica Lea 
    January 24th, 2013 at 5:49 pm
    jill: Good to know that I’m not the only one! :) That’s so interesting – I’m horrible at predicting or even having inclinations about whether it’s a boy or a girl. I’ll be happy with whatever God gives me! :) Yes, this weather has kept me inside quite a bit – not good for my exercise routine. Reuben makes sure I dress up warm when we go do out. :D
15. Erica Lea 
    January 24th, 2013 at 5:52 pm
    Emily O.: Haha, yes. I don’t really have much to complain about. Can’t wait to hold this rascal! :D
16. Erica Lea 
    January 24th, 2013 at 5:52 pm
    Elizabeth: Thank you!
17. Erica Lea 
    January 24th, 2013 at 5:55 pm
    Laura Brown: Huh! That’s so interesting. I DO crave carbs, but I’ve always been a carb-lovin’ kind of girl. :) Thank you – so good to know that it gets easier! Yeah, I’m hoping weight loss won’t be too difficult for me, but I’ve heard that it takes 9 months to put it on so you should expect it to take that long to lose it. :/ Yeah, I’m dreading the day. Guess it’ll be a sign that everything is moving forward, though. :) Thank you for your encouraging words! Have a lovely day!
18. Hannah 
    January 25th, 2013 at 9:58 am
    I followed your blog for a while, but somehow forgot about it (I think about the time you got married). I am so glad to have found it again, and to see that you two are so happy and about to welcome such a wonderful blessing into your arms!
    You are just gorgeous, and that little baby is very blessed to have a mama who’s looking forward so much to meeting him/her!
19. Kathryn Grace 
    January 25th, 2013 at 10:40 am
    You’re adorable… I hope I look that cute when I’m weeks away from delivering. (Doubtful. :-). Looking forward to baby pictures! :-D
    Love your new blog header!
20. Diane 
    January 26th, 2013 at 2:46 pm
    Blessings to you and Reuben, Erica.
    I am convinced the baby is a girl, as well. Youll know the day is near if you get a sudden burst of energy and decide that you MUST clean the entire house RIGHT NOW. I have three boys and this urge to ‘nest’ hit me two to three days before each of them made his arrival.
    Best wishes for a safe and speedy delivery!
21. Samantha 
    January 26th, 2013 at 8:13 pm
    I bet it’s a boy! Your carrying low and although it’s not always right, it’s usually a good indicator. But again, it’s not always right. Excited for you either way!
22. Rachel 
    February 9th, 2013 at 6:34 pm
    Awww … so sweet! I’m so excited for you, Erica :)
    And, yes, it’s always good to stay positive! :: grin ::
    Blessings & Grace in Him,
    Rachel
    {http://mysunkissedfarm.wordpress.com/}
23. Kayla 
    February 14th, 2013 at 12:57 pm
    I used to keep up with your blog regularly, but I got married last summer and haven’t had regular internet access since…so I didn’t even know you were pregnant! First, congratulations…a little late! We got pregnant about 10 minutes after we got married…okay, so more like 4 or 5 days…and I’m 25 weeks along now. I started off a lot bigger than you, and I already feel huge. I love feeling the baby moving and it’s so exciting for us! At the same time, I have heard there are aches and pains that go along with it, and I’m not too excited about experiencing all of that! I’ve had sciatic nerve issues some in the past, and it’s flaring up again now, but not too bad yet.
    I hope everything goes well for you!
24. sarah marie 
    February 17th, 2013 at 8:51 am
    I remember that ‘hard belly’ sensation; for me it happened especially when going from a sitting position to standing. Those are most likely Braxton Hicks contractions you’re feeling.
    Okay, your 37 week pregnancy weight is not far off from my 9-months-postpartum weight, so I’m just going to go mope now… ;)

Sam & Amanda | Engagement

I am so excited for these two. The fact that Amanda is my sister just might have something to do with it.

We braved the chilly freezing Minnesota weather to capture a few moments of them together. Reuben provided the snow.

Sam & Amanda, I can’t wait to see you two growing closer together day by day. Here’s to an awesome marriage for you two!

5 Responses to Sam & Amanda | Engagement

1. Amanda Lynn 
   January 22nd, 2013 at 6:04 pm
   I love these pictures more every time I look at them! You really are an amazing photographer, Erica. Thanks again so much for taking these! And thanks for the well wishes – it really means a lot to know that my family is thinking about me and excited for me.
2. Hannah 
   January 23rd, 2013 at 9:31 am
   These are AMAZING! You are so talented! =D Wow, this inspires me to go out and take some pictures of my own! =)
3. Kathryn Grace 
   January 23rd, 2013 at 9:48 am
   Awww, congratulations to them! Lovely photos. :-) I’ve only shot one engagement so far but it was so fun… I think the excitement and love and the fact that they play off each other makes it so easy to get great pictures!
4. Moriah Mari 
   January 25th, 2013 at 10:12 am
   Congratulations to the happy couple!
   Erica, thanks for sharing these. :)
5. garysgirl 
   February 8th, 2013 at 6:35 pm
   These are so cute! You’re a great photographer. :) Congrats to the happy couple!

My Year in Photos 2012 Part 2

And at long last, the second half of my 2012 year in photos…

See the first half here.

July

I had the privilege of photographing the C family kids. They are so photogenic.

My Kitchen Garden flourished.

We had a huge storm that knocked over many trees.

We spent a few weekends at the cabin.

Fun times at the family reunion.

Baby Susan gets more adorable each day.

August

More fun times at the other family reunion.

September

We finally announced to the world that we are expecting!

I had so much fun doing a mini session with my sister-in-law. See more photos on her blog here.

Elinor turned four.

Here I am at 20 weeks.

October

We had a beautiful first snow. Read more about it here.

I shot the C Family and my sister’s family.

Here I am at 24 weeks.

November

My favorite kind of day.

Frosty Morning.

Here I am at 28 weeks.

December

Good times ice skating. I chose not to skate because of the risk of falling.

Our Charlie Brown Christmas Tree.

Christmas Morning.

Here I am at 33 weeks. I got very sick with a stomach bug, so I was unable to post at my regular 4-week interval.

And there you have our year in photos! It’s hard to believe that 2012 has already come to a close and that we’re so close to embarking on a new adventure as parents.

If you’d like to see my previous years in photos, follow the links below.

2011: PART 1 | PART 2

2010: PART 1 | PART 2

Here’s to a marvelous 2013!

3 Responses to My Year in Photos 2012 Part 2

1. Raelyn Nichole 
   January 17th, 2013 at 6:37 pm
   What a nice post series! I really enjoyed “seeing” your 2012. Your sister’s husband looks an awful lot like Reuben. Are they brothers?
   -Raelyn Nichole
2. Sarah G. 
   January 18th, 2013 at 4:36 pm
   Raelyn I was wondering the same thing! They sure do look a lot alike. Fun pictures!
3. Erica Lea 
   January 19th, 2013 at 3:57 pm
   Raelyn & Sarah: Yes, my sister and I married brothers. It will be fun to see how similar/different our kids look. :)

Lovely Things in the Mail

Posted by Erica Lea on January 15th, 2013 . Filed under: around the house .

Yesterday my order from David’s Tea arrived.

I am beyond excited for these mugs. I have been wanting some earthenware cups like this for a while, and I found them for a really good deal over at David’s.

Along with each order they include three free samples of tea. The Chai they sent was absolutely lovely.

Beautiful steam.

I had Reuben help me capture a cream-pouring shot and turned it into a gif.

What sorts of lovely things have you got in the mail lately?

8 Responses to Lovely Things in the Mail

1. Megan 
   January 15th, 2013 at 4:16 pm
   Love the cups!! :)
2. Samantha 
   January 15th, 2013 at 8:12 pm
   Those mugs are gorgeous!
3. Rebecca Lately 
   January 16th, 2013 at 9:31 am
   Absolutely gorgeous! If my cupboard wasn’t already brimming with mugs, I would purchase those right away.
   Love the gif :)
4. Peggy 
   January 16th, 2013 at 11:11 am
   Simply beautiful! I think I’ll have to keep checking on them since they are currently out of stock. We have a son who will be moving out on his own soon and these fit his personality and tastes perfectly.
   I recently received a BUNCH of different types of labels for canning jars and the cookbook “Food in Jars”… all of which were won on giveaways! I was so tickled felt like Christmas (or early birthday) all over again! :)
5. Lorraine 
   January 17th, 2013 at 1:14 pm
   I love those cups, but I didn’t see them on that website. What exactly am I supposed to click on?
6. Erica Lea 
   January 17th, 2013 at 1:43 pm
   Lorraine: Hummm…they must be out of stock right now. From what I can tell they are made by the Miya Company, but you can get them at Terrain as well. I got them for a MUCH better deal on David’s Tea – $19.50 for 4. Maybe they’ll get them back in stock!
7. Anna H. 
   January 25th, 2013 at 11:05 am
   I was not able to find these mugs on the website you linked to? Could you help with a link?
8. Aiza 
   October 26th, 2013 at 2:22 pm
   Those mugs are so amazing. Gosh. And that gif is a job well done!