Heading into the "Baby Zone"

My co-worker declared that because we're just about 3 weeks away from Radish's due date, we are now in the "Baby Zone." I'd have to agree, as my thoughts turn away from the outside world and towards that inner world that Radish inhabits. His frequent kicks to my ribcage and ability to shape-shift the contour of my belly are reminders that he's getting to a point where he doesn't have a lot of room to move around. I also find my mind wandering to what his little face is going to look like, how big his feet might be, and how he'll sound when we first meet him. And, of course, some anxiety is creeping in - will he be strong and healthy? How excruciating will labor be, really? Will nursing work out? How will Dave handle changing his first dirty diaper? Will we get ANY sleep in those first few weeks? The rest of our "Zone" centers on his room, filled with both the necessary stuff and the just plain fun stuff that we're accumulating. I can't wait to see him cuddled up in his ducky towel, or snuzzling in his multitudes of fuzzy PJ's.

My visit to Dr. Block today went well in its usual efficient manner. I'm measuring at about 36 weeks, which she said is just fine as I turn the corner to 37 weeks. His heartbeat was really loud and clear today, and once again, strong and steady. She made sure that his head is in the right position, and said that it looks like he's "settling in well." It does feel like he's moved down just a bit - not really a drop, but a small shift in downward pressure on my pelvis. We discussed labor and delivery, and what our plan will be if he goes beyond a week overdue (I currently have two friends who are 12 to 14 days overdue!). Next week, she'll start checking my cervix to see if we're making progress toward the big day. It's hard to believe that we're getting so close, but I guess that's the case when you're in the "Baby Zone!"

Much love to all,
Alyssa and Radish

P.S. We are all very excited to welcome Dave home tomorrow from his long and tiring week working in Vegas. Yes, I do believe him when he says he was there strictly for work. :)

Showered with Gifts and Love

Just wrapping up a fantastic weekend! Nana (AKA Candy V.) flew in to help Amanda and Alison host Radish's baby shower, which made for a very sweet birthday present as well.

Dave and I celebrating my 32nd with Nana, Auntie Amanda, and The Pear Tart at the Dahlia Lounge in Seattle.

The happy hostesses, Auntie Amanda and Alison, "working" the quiche as Radish's shower got underway.

Post-Baby Pictionary, as we get ready to open gifts. The neighbors later reported that they could hear a house full o' ladies for most of the afternoon, whooping it up or ooohing and aaahing. Note the sweet little Radish sign on the door above me, another piece lovingly made by the craftmaster herself, Auntie Amanda.

Adorable afghan made by Grandma Hill - so soft and cuddly, and made with such love.

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Our second youngest guest, Torin, getting crazy with all of the wrapping paper (and flirting with all of the ladies).

Auntie Carole sent "Good Dog Carl" for Worden to read to Radish.

This one's for you, Sara P.! Your handmade gift was admired by all!

Leave it to Sara and Gail to come up wth the best themed gift of all - monsters! We missed you both!

Beautiful, vivacious flowers sent by my beautiful, vivacious friend, Tessa, graced the table (and still do!).

Many other wonderful gifts have been arriving all week - lovely books from great aunties and uncles (oh yes, and a Red Sox hat!), sweet little outfits and carvings from Grandma Pam and Buppa, lullabies, little buddies, and cute clothes from Aunt Rachel and Uncle Elbio, and essentials such as a bassinet and a Diaper Genie from Grandma Loretta and Grandpa Steve. We are so thankful to you all for your generosity and love that you've showered on us!

A Bit More Prep

We spent a good part of the second weekend in January getting things a bit more prepped for Radish's arrival. Amanda and I made our first venture to Babies R Us to stock up on some essentials (note that Dave did his daddy duties by straightening up the backyard and basement). Radish's dresser now has the necessary diaper supplies on hand, our kitchen cupboards have a few bottles in store so that Dave can help out with feeding him, and the crib finally has a mattress and a sheet. Practical matters aside, we also added a few more decorations to Radish's nursery.


A squirrelly scene above the changing table.


Dave takes over the meadow scene under the window. Let it be known for the record that this took place during the Packers game (yes, that one, against the Cardinals).



Dave insisted on a belly shot right as I was headed to bed. Indeed, being nearly nine months pregnant can be a bit wearing on a girl. I'm feeling great, but have noticed that heaving this watermelon around is somewhat exhausting by the end of the day. My newfound indulgence is going for a swim a few times a week. Both Radish and I love the bouyancy of the water (and I love the looks I get when I waddle in in my swimsuit!).

My last visit to the doctor, about two weeks ago, showed that Radish is progressing right on schedule in terms of my belly size and weight. Dr. Block said "it sounds like he's having a good ol' time in there," while taking his heartbeat, which I interpret as "his heart is healthy and strong." I'll start seeing Dr. Block every week now, until Radish is born - I'll try to keep you all updated as we anticipate his due date!

Worden's Mystery Malaise

Apologies for the delay in updates. We had quite a scare with our "first child," Worden the Wonder Dog. After his routine vaccinations, he came down with a fever, and went downhill from there, refusing to eat, shivering, displaying none of his usual enthusiasm, and appearing to be in pain when he had to move. After several days of concern and visits to the vet, he was admitted to critical care for two nights, hooked up to an IV for fluids and meds. They ran several diagnostic tests, including an abdominal ultrasound (hence, his shaved belly), and while they were able to rule out a few possible infections, we still do not conclusively know what went wrong. We suspect it was an autoimmune response to his vaccines, and have been advised by the internist at critical care to consider avoiding all vaccines in the future. For now, we are just so relieved to have him home and nearly back to his old self. While I would have preferred to avoid Worden's scare altogether, we've been told that it's good practice for when Radish gets sick (or even just ornery). Many thanks to all of you for sending healthy dog vibes!


Worden's first night back at home, shaved belly for all to see.


Recuperating dogs get full Snoogle privileges.

Christmas in the Methow

The Mighty Mighty Vegters convened in Washington for Christmas celebrations. We headed to the Methow Valley for some quality cabin time, including ...

. . . serious murder mystery puzzling . . .

. . . snowshoeing for preggo while the others cross-country skied . . .

. . . setting up for full family photos . . .

. . . more family photo prep . . .

. . . appreciating the beauty of the Methow . . .

. . . and rockin' the Wiscondiego maternity styles.

I'm so thankful that Radish was surrounded by the voices of his Nana, Poppa, Auntie Amanda, and Creepy Uncle Micah over the holidays!

Pre-Christmas Festivities

We're getting ready for Christmas around the house, hanging lights, trimming the tree, and trying to squeeze into maternity dresses for Christmas parties. Here are a few images from our hubbub.



Dave worked extra hard to get the lights on the upper floor, i.e. roamed around the roof on a frosty night in the dark with a headlamp. Note Worden's glowing eyes in front of the porch - so proud.



Off to the Marten Law Group Christmas party. Yes, I am taller and rounder than our sweet little Christmas tree.



Alyssa and Dave: "Worden, meet Radish."

Worden: "Mom, I told you you'd get fat once you stopped running with me every day."

As 2010 draws closer my doctor appointments are becoming more frequent. Last week, my belly measured right at 31 weeks, and Radish's heartbeat was strong. We're both feeling healthy and energetic - his kicks and somersaults come at routine times (post-breakfast, post-lunch, post-dinner, and pre-sleep). I've started massage therapy for lower back pain, and thanks to that, the Snoogle, and a fancy chair at work, I've had great relief. We are grateful for the smooth sailing.

Looking forward to the pending invasion from the Mighty Mighty Vegters for Christmastime cahoots, and a little bit of R & R. Merry Christmas to all!

The Snoogle

Under orders from Elisabeth Peterson, I finally bought myself a body pillow to support my back and belly. It's heaven -- thank you E! I went for "The Snoogle," which Amanda has said looks like a large, dead tapeworm. She's right, of course, but its function is sublime. As you can see, Worden agrees.