GIRL NUMBER THREE!

Thank you to Sneak Peek for sponsoring this post.

 Can you believe it?? We're having another girl!

Honestly, I can totally believe it... but for some reason reading the results still took me by surprise! We are thrilled to be adding another little girl into our family! And, if you've seen the video of us telling the girls, you know they're beyond excited! Having girls feels so natural to us and honestly, I hardly have to do anything to prepare, ha! Another girl will fit so easily into our family. For whatever reason though, from the moment I saw the positive pregnancy test, I thought we were having a boy. If I'm being honest, I really had to mentally prepare for that. Having two girly girls feels really natural to me. Over time I mentally prepared to have a boy and started to warm up to the idea of a little Hunter running around. Then, came the ring test... Have you heard of this? If not, look it up on Google. Basically if you hold your ring over your hand with a piece of hair or string, it'll either move back and forth or move in a circle and that supposedly tells you the genders of your children and how many you will have. This test appeared to be accurate for every person we tried it on. My test said this baby would be a boy. So, here I was thinking we'd be welcoming a little boy into our family. I got super anxious and wanted to really actually start preparing if it were a boy because hello, we have ZERO baby boy things! Need dresses, hair bows, barbies, and pink nursery decor... I got you! But boy stuff... I have none of that. So I desperately wanted to find out the gender of this child, and fast! That's when I heard about Sneak Peek...

I have a few friends that have done Sneak Peek so I was really interested in it. The more I read, the more I really wanted tot try it! Sneak Peek is the only at-home early gender DNA blood test with results that are 99.1% accurate. It can also be taken as early as 8 weeks into pregnancy! Can you believe that?? You can now find out the gender of your baby at 8 weeks! That is 12 weeks earlier than the anatomy scan. Sneak Peek is also the safest, earliest, most accurate way to determine your baby's gender. 

I received my test in the mail and was so excited to take it. I had my mom help me because blood often makes me feel a little queasy. Luckily, my mom was super calm and helpful and it literally took us like 20 minutes. The instructions were very straight forward and I was surprised at how easy it was. You don't want male DNA to come in contact with the test so we had my dad stay downstairs and I used disinfectant  spray on the entire bathroom... I may have sprayed my moms hand after she touched her phone too... haha sorry mom. Once you mail the test back you can find out the results as fast as 72 hours after! I was alone when I opened the email and I was literally shocked! I told Hunter and he was soo excited. When I called my mom to tell her we both felt like we should go get an ultrasound just to make sure. I found a place that would take me the next day and sure enough, after looking for like 30 seconds, she confirmed that we are having a little girl! Once I received both results I felt like I could finally breathe and start really feeling excited about another girl. We're 98% sure we have her name already picked out and each passing day I get even more excited to see my three girls together. 💗💗💗

I would totally recommend doing the Sneak Peek test if you are wanting to find out the gender of your baby early. They ship everywhere in the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK. If you are wanting to try the test you can use code SPINOV11 for $10 off the standard test or $20 off the FastTrack test. The code is valid the whole month of November!

If you have any questions feel free to ask me! 

All my love

-Aleigh Joy

3

A Little Pregnancy Update

*This post is in collaboration with Pink Blush Maternity

So, I'm 35 weeks and some change.

This child is coming in like 4.5 weeks.

I'm honestly so shocked at how fast this pregnancy flew by!

I also have been seriously terrible with pregnancy updates. 

Oops, second kid probs.

Also, not wanting to take pictures because nothing fits... probs...

But I know I really will want to remember this time so here goes a little update :)

I guess she's the size of a small watermelon so... here's a picture with some watermelon haha

How Far Along? 35.5 weeks!

Weight Gain: I just don't think it's worth it to know...

 Maternity Clothes? YES! I bought a few pairs of maternity jeans when I was pregnant with Oaklyn and called it good. Not only did I hardly show, but I was pregnant in the winter time and it was so easy dress the bump. This time however, ugh... I hate getting dressed. It's hot. Like really hot. So, I don't really want to wear anything tight. I've been living in dresses but I also got some shirts from Pink Blush Maternity that I absolutely love! You guys, they actually have CUTE maternity clothes! I chose some flowy tops that I love and the one I'm wearing in this picture can be worn after my pregnancy too. If all goes as planned, this won't be my last pregnancy so I figure stocking up on maternity clothes isn't such a bad thing! 

 Sleep? No, not really. I'm waking up more at night to pee which is the most annoying but I'm also switching positions constantly. For some reason I end up flat on my back while sleeping so I've been trying to correct that.

 Best moment this week? I am pretty nervous to add another little one to our family.
The newborn stage is hard for me and I'm just getting anxious about it. However, I saw an itty bitty baby the other day and I melted. I got so excited to have another one of my own! So that was pretty much the best :)

 Weird pregnancy moment? Just the way this child kicks and moves is weird. She's super active and her kicks actually hurt!

 Movement: Oh, spoke too soon ;) But seriously, this little girl's movements are so crazy that I wake up from them. She's either really big, really strong, or really crazy haha.

 Food Cravings: Halo Top Ice cream has become a recent obsession. French Fries, oh man do I love me some french fries. Steamed broccoli with cheese haha. Shrimp. Ohh give me allll the shrimp! Dole whips, and thankfully they have them in Provo! And whatever else I fancy each day ;)

 Anything making you queasy? Smells are still getting the best of me. Weirdly, I can't stand the smell right after Hunter brushes his teeth haha.

 Gender: Little girly pie! We'll see if this one has hair like oaks!

 What I'm looking forward to: Setting up the nursery. Well actually I'm more looking forward to it being done haha. Setting it up doesn't exactly sounds fun ;)

Best Advice Learned So Far: Bodies are amazing and can do hard things. My body won't always look like this, my body can and will carry this child, and even though labor is scary to me... my body can do it!

Well that's all I have this time.

This pregnancy is a million and a half times different than mine with Oaks but I guess they'll all be a bit different.

Needless to say though, I'm giving myself a nice long break after this child is born ;)

I had an appointment today and baby girl is measuring at 5.5 pounds! 

No dilation but I didn't dilate til about 38 weeks with oaklyn and even then I was just at a one. 

So, only time will tell when this little one gets here :)

All my love,

Aleigh Joy

0

Things You Should Never Say To A Pregnant Lady

Oh pregnancy, it's the best of times and the worst of times haha.

The swelling, the heartburn, the clothes that don't fit... it's all worth it to grow and bring new life into the world, but man is it challenging at times.

Just about every day I look at Hunter and say something along the lines of how done I am with being pregnant.

My pregnancy with Oaklyn had its ups and downs but mainly was a breeze, this time has just been harder all around.

The funny thing is, pregnant women are already going through so many emotional and physical changes, yet people still have the nerve to say some really well... dumb things. To put it politely ;)

I've decided to compile a list of all these rather annoying remarks to maybe shed some light on the topic, because really, just think before you speak people! 

"You must be due any day now!"

Okay people, just don't bring up a due date you know nothing about unless you are asking when someone is due. And when they tell you, just say something kind like "oh how fun!" When a 7 month along pregnant lady is walking through the grocery store, the last thing they want to hear is that they look like they are going to pop at any minute. It's a long process and every single body grows differently. Just let the body do its thing. Commenting on weight during pregnancy is a danger zone at all times. 

Just wait... 

Okay, ANY form of just wait comment is actually the worst. Just because something may have been harder for you does not mean it will be for the pregnant lady and even if it will be, they surely don't want to hear about it! "Just wait til the baby comes, you'll never sleep!" "Just wait until you have two to chase around, then you'll know how hard it is!" Just wait until you are in your third trimester, it's so much worse!" "Just wait until you're in labor, you'll be wishing you never got pregnant!" You guys, I'm not kidding I've had all of these said to me and I just wanna pull my hair out. It's just not kind to talk to someone like they are naive in the first place, but let's not freak out other moms either. Just let them be them and you do you.

You must want a *insert opposite gender here* so bad!

We're having our second girl. And guess what?? We are SO excited! This second baby being a girl could not be better for us. With Hunter still in school for a few more months, it is such a blessing that we can just reuse everything we had from Oaklyn. Also, it is so much fun having girls and Hunter is actually happy with having two girls! When someone is pregnant with another one of the same gender, it is actually possible that they are happy about it. And if they aren't it's probably best not to bring it up unless they do first...

Don't let your hands do the talking...

Some people could care less that random strangers come up and touch their belly... but most find it really really odd. I know I do. "Oh, is she kicking??" Uhm no, and even if she was I don't know you... It's just best to move along and keep your hands in your pockets people.

Opinions on labor choices

Here's the deal, we have several different choices and options when it comes to labor nowadays. There is no "right" way and that is a-okay. If you bring up labor, just keep your opinions to yourself. Your natural birth may have gone really awesome, but some just aren't about that. Your epidural may have been heaven sent, but some women just don't want one. Either way is just fine.

Asking baby's name

Okay, while it's not a bad thing to ask if they have a name picked out, don't pry if they don't want to talk about it. And if they do feel okay offering the name, you may not like it... but don't show it or say it. Our daughter has a "different" name, but we absolutely love it. I hated telling people her name because the reactions were all over the place. If the only names you like are the ones you named your children, it's best just not to ask this question...

Okay, that about covers it for now haha.

I'm sure I can think of more, but we'll leave it at that ;)

Pregnancy hormones are no joke, so let's just not mess with them.

Since pregnancy is such a difficult time for a lot of women it's always a plus to feel comfortable in your clothes.

I have been living in dresses and looser fitting clothes in general and PinkBlush Maternity has been heaven sent!

If you're pregnant and searching for something comfortable to wear, there is an amazing selection of cute maternity clothes on their website. 

I'm obsessed with this black lace up maternity shift dress because it is sooo comfortable and trendy!

I also will be able to wear it after the baby comes and that is always a plus in my book.

You are bound to find something you love from PinkBlush!

All my love,

Aleigh Joy

*Thank you to PinkBlush Maternity for sponsoring this post!

8

T W E N T Y E I G H T

Holy smokes, where is time going??

I hit the third trimester this week and I'm seriously in shock that this pregnancy is 2/3 of the way done.

You know when you first hear your due date you're thinking, "that is SO far away!"?

Well, now I'm thinking... "wait, can we push this due date back a little? I'm not ready!"

I definitely am getting more and more excited and anxious, but I've got a whole lot to do to be ready for this little miss!

I also can't believe how little I've posted about this pregnancy.

This has been the craziest and busiest time in our marriage and time is literally flying by.

I thought I'd finally do a little bumpdate though because I was so good about it with Oaklyn and this child should at least have one haha.

These were the exact same questions I used with Oaklyn so here we go!

How Far Along? 28 Weeks!

Weight Gain: I try really hard not to look at the scale at each appointment so i'm not sure ;) I'm also not sure why I left this question on here...

 Maternity Clothes? I have all my maternity jeans from when I was pregnant with Oaklyn and I'm still loving them! However, I was my biggest with her in the winter so baggy sweaters did the trick. This time around I'm having a hard time being comfy in clothes! I'm kind of living in swing dresses. 

 Sleep? Sleep is harder when you have a toddler. I can't just plop down and take a nap like I did with Oaks. But when I actually fall asleep I stay asleep pretty well. As long as i have my legs wrapped around a pillow ha.

 Best moment this week? This might sound silly, but I've been having a hard time with how quickly my body changed this pregnancy. I feel like I'm never fitting in clothes and it's just a pain to get dressed. The other day though, I got dressed and actually felt good in what I was wearing! Silly I know, but was good for my pregnant self esteem. 

 Weird pregnancy moment? Saying goodbye to my belly button... I forgot how weird it is when your stomach grows and your belly button disappears! 

 Movement: This child is much different than Oaks. Oaklyn was her most active from this point til about 38 weeks. This one will just all of a sudden kick so hard it literally hurts then be done for a while. She really likes to press outwards and dig into my ribs too. 

 Food Cravings: It's something new each week but right now I'm craving a chick fil a sandwich with lots of chick fil a sauce on the daily, shaved ice, ice cold water, dr pepper (thank goodness for caffeine free because I get this craving at like 10pm...), and a fried egg on toast ha.

 Anything making you queasy? Smells. Ugh, my sense of smell is ridiculous. Oaklyn's diapers do not help this situation at all!

 Gender: Last we checked, it's still a girl! Thank goodness too, I hardly have to buy anything!

 What I'm looking forward to: Seven Peaks opening! We got passes and even though I'm dreading being in a bathing suit, I can't wait to float in a pool!

Best Advice Learned So Far: Ignorance is bliss ha! I was so high strung with Oaks and had to have all the best baby gear and latest gadgets. I had a never ending checklist of things I thought we absolutely needed and it totally stressed me out. I've been trying to just not care as much about all that stuff this time and it's helped a ton!

Well, here's to hoping we have a smooth 12 weeks til this lady arrives!

I have a lot to do to get Oaks ready for a little one, but I'm so excited to watch her be a big sister :)

All my love,

Aleigh Joy

0

She's A GIRL!

I already posted my announcement photo on social media, but figured I'd also write a little something about adding another little lady to our family!

First off, I cannot begin to explain how relieved I am!

As all expecting parents, we were really just hoping for a healthy baby and a healthy pregnancy.

We would obviously have been happy with either a boy or a girl, but of course were kind of "hoping" for one or the other.

From the moment I saw that very clear positive, I was hoping it would be a girl.

First off, a girl just felt right to me.

I have a two year old girl already, a whole lot of little girl clothes, have changed hundreds of little girl diapers, felt totally comfortable with raising a girl, and just loved the idea of reusing basically everything we already have.

I purposefully got all of our baby gear the first time around to be gender neutral so we wouldn't have to worry about that in the future, but when it came to wardrobe... there was nothing "neutral" in her closet ha.

Since Hunter is still in school, it just felt so much more comfortable to have a little girl.

Not only that, but I have been obsessed with our girl name since I was 18 and was just dying to use it.

So, at 12 weeks we had an ultrasound and the tech says "are you guys going to find out what you are having this time around?"

I responded, "yes, but probably not until 20 weeks because we don't want to pay at 16 weeks this time..."

He then looks at me and says "well I know what you're having already, do you want to know?"

I looked at Hunter and said "Do we? Do we want to know right now?"

I was worried I wouldn't know how to feel about what he was going to say because I wasn't prepared to know that early but blurted out a big 'ol yes!

He then says "okay, I'm 90% sure you're having a girl!"

I immediately felt relief and was so happy we wouldn't have to worry about buying much of well... anything!

He of course then says " I'm not usually wrong, but this is a very early guess so we'll make sure to check again at 20 weeks."

Because it was so early we only told close friends and family but if I'm being honest... I really didn't want to tell anyone haha.

I felt like it would be "less exciting" news to have another girl even though for me, it was exactly the news I was hoping for.

So, we just continued to pray for our "baby" and knew there was still a possibility of hearing something different at 20 weeks.

Fast forward 8 weeks and we're at the 20 week ultrasound.

The tech is going through all the anatomy and then says, "So what did I tell you you're having at 12 weeks?"

After telling him a girl he says, "Okay! Let's find out if I was right!"

Suddenly I panicked and thought "wait... what do you mean 'if'... What if it is a boy? I'm not prepared for a boy!"

Next thing I knew I was staring at the screen where he typed out that we were in fact having a girl!

I let out the biggest sigh of relief and whispered "oh thank goodness."

Like I said earlier, we absolutely would love to have a little boy... but at this particular time I am SO grateful this little one is a girl!

I am already dreaming up matching dresses on holidays and watching them play dolls together!

Hopefully they get along haha.

At some point, I absolutely want a boy... and Hunter of course does too!

We are definitely not stopping at two kids.

However, right now, I know the Lord was very mindful of us and placed this baby girl into our family at the perfect time.

Oaklyn gets a little friend, I get to be at ease while Hunter finishes school, and ya know... I get to use my name ;)

So anyways, we just wanted to say a big THANK YOU to all of you for the congratulations and well wishes!

We are thrilled to welcome another baby girl into our family and can't wait to share her name!

For now, we will be calling her baby C :)

All my love,

Aleigh Joy

I just had to include this picture because Oaklyn's face is the best haha! And no... Hunter didn't buy pink Nikes for this picture haha. He already had them from Breast Cancer awareness month (BYU makes sure to support!)

0

Moore Party of FOUR!

The secret is FINALLY out!

And by finally I mean I'm 16 weeks sooo... yeah I've been keeping this a secret for kind of a while now haha.

We found out the first week of December. 

DECEMBER PEOPLE!

We told family and close friends as we saw them, but I really didn't want to announce until after the first trimester.

Once I hit that mark life got even more crazy (as if that's possible, ha!) and we couldn't find a time that we were all together when it wasn't dark outside or sleeping. 

Since we hadn't announced all this time, this pregnancy hasn't exactly felt real.

It's been hard hiding such a big secret... especially since I've been way more sick this time around.

Hunter was gone all day Friday then came home Saturday at 3:30ish. 

I looked at him and said, "Should we just take the picture now? I mean I'm 16 weeks already..."

So on a whim, we just went for it.

I hadn't even brushed my hair, Oaklyn had been throwing fits all day, and Hunter was sick and exhausted, but it feels mighty good to finally be telling the world about our best kept secret ;)

So now on to a bit about this pregnancy...

We're (mostly me) equally as excited as we are terrified to add another little person to our family.

Most of the time, I'm excited and feeling encouraged that I can do this.

Then other times I'm actually having a meltdown because I'm so terrified to have two kids haha.

I know I can do this and I know The Lord has blessed us with this baby and we are thankful beyond words, but I've also got a whole lot of figuring out to do!

This little one is coming before we were planning on moving out, before Hunter graduates, right in the middle of some big projects, right before football season (Hunt's busiest time), and of course I can't stop worrying about PPD that I had pretty severely with Oaklyn.

However, this little peanut has already stolen my heart and I am beyond excited to snuggle him/her!

I always envisioned us having several kids. There isn't really a definition for several, just whatever feels right. 

I've always hoped I'd have a full house, lots of birthdays to celebrate, and plenty of mouths to feed.

It's just thinking about being pregnant several times that's killin me ha.

As I was saying earlier, this time around has been quite a bit different than with Oaks.

I was definitely more sick in the first trimester, but less tired. 

I've had heartburn like nobody's business since I found out whereas it didn't really start til around this time with Oaklyn.

I'm still having food aversions but a whole lot more things sound good to me than they did with Oaklyn, and sometimes I even crave meat... what?!

Not to mention, my body is definitely changing faster this time around.

I wouldn't say I'm showing yet but I definitely feel "more pregnant" than I did with Oaks at this point. 

All around it's just been pretty different!

As far as gender goes, we're planning on finding out at 20 weeks during the anatomy scan. 

I have sooo much more willpower this time around, ha!

We will be perfectly happy with either gender but if I could plan it out, I would definitely want another girl. 

It would make it SO much easier being that we already have everything for a little girl, and duh... matching dresses haha.

I also happen to like our girl name a whole lot but that's also a secret ;)

Anyways, I'm due in August. August 12th to be exact, my sister's birthday!

I'm not exactly excited to be largely pregnant during the summer months but I'm very much excited to have a baby during a month I can go outside!

Gosh I can't believe I'm having another baby haha.

I think that covers the gist of things, but you'll be hearing quite a bit more about this peanut now that I can actually talk about him/her!

Okay lastly, I've gotten the same question asked quite a bit lately.

I've been asked why I've kind of stopped blogging.

People said they were worried and hoped all was well.

Last time I took a bunch of time off from blogging was when Hunt's dad passed away.

Nothing severe has happened like that, but there are several contributing factors I'll be talking about more soon.

I would say though, the biggest factor would be THIS PREGNANCY!

Gosh it has taken a lot out of me including inspiration and motivation.

Plus, how am I supposed to blog when I'm keeping the biggest secret like ever from you guys??

So, thank you so much for the concern and support.

Seriously, it felt good to know someone actually cared haha!

But I'm feeling quite a bit better and with each new sunny day I'm feeling a little more inspired to work on some big projects I have planned!

Alright friends, that is all for now.

I just figured I should pop in and explain life's current happenings haha.

Now hold me to being better about blogging ;)

All my love,

Aleigh Joy (and the tiny peanut in my belly)

My outfit is old but here's a similar skirt | Lipsense is redwood and you can join my group to see other colors here | Oaks outfit also old but Gap still has peter pan collared onesies! | Balloon from North Star Balloons | Similar shirt to Hunter's  

0

Shop Pink Blush + $50 Gift Card Giveaway!

My whole pregnancy I hated the idea of maternity clothes.

(Other than maternity jeans... I could live in maternity jeans.)

I felt like the shirts just made you look bigger than you were and they were all so overpriced for not so cute styles.

So, I bought a few pairs of cheap pants and lived in the same few shirts and called it good.

Then I saw some friends post pictures in cute maternity clothing.

They hardly even looked maternity!

I was so bummed that I had found out about Pink Blush Maternity after I had my precious Oaklyn, but was so excited to know that I could find trendy maternity clothes for future pregnancies!

Then I found out that Pink Blush also offers an adorable women's line!

I scrolled through the line and fell in love with just about every item of clothing.

All the dresses were so pretty and the best part? 

The maxi dress that I am wearing is nursing friendly!

I have heard mothers everywhere time and time again complain about how hard it is to wear a dress and nurse. 

Nobody wants to have to completely take off what they are wearing to feed their baby. 

These lovely maxi dresses are crossed on the top and function perfectly for nursing (or in my case pumping).

I also chose to get a sweater and a blouse.

I love them both!

The sweater is so trendy with a chiffon floral pattern exposed on the bottom and in the back.

The plaid blouse is loose and comfortable while also looking stylish. 

Needless to say, I love everything I chose!

Like always, I have to comment on shipping and customer service.

This company receives and A+.

My items were delivered to my doorstep before estimated without any troubles, and the customer service was wonderful.

The website has a detailed sizing chart and all the info you need on clothing material.

So go ahead and check out this online maternity boutique to get everything you need from cute maternity clothes to nursing friendly dresses or just a beautiful blouse!

I have also teamed up with Pink Blush to offer one of my Instagram followers/blog readers a $50 gift card!

Head on over to my Instagram account and enter to win!

All my love,

Aleigh Joy

Maxi Dress | Plaid Tunic | Sweater

3

A Thought or Two

It's an interesting thing that the second you look at that pregnancy test and see two pink lines, every thought, chore, dream, errand, and action, changes. 

Your world isn't just "your world" anymore.

Your heart grows a size bigger and suddenly, without even realizing it, you're learning to think about someone other than yourself all the time.

It doesn't matter what store I walk into, I always end up in the baby section.

My routine seems to be the same everywhere I go.

Survey the baby gear wondering what else is necessary, feel for the softest blankets, picture a sweet baby playing with all the colorful toys, and ALWAYS end in the clothes section picturing my princess in every dreamy dress and pair of sparkly shoes.

I had no idea how girly I was until I started shopping for a little girl of my own.

It's funny, the circle of life is...

You go through phases, everyone does it.

Well, every girl does it.

Or at least me and my friends did it...

Anyhow, I remember being in middle school dreaming of dating the perfect guy in high school and him taking me to prom so I could get all dressed up in a pretty dress and maybe just maybe, he'd kiss me goodnight.

I got to high school and found someone that made my heart beat extra fast. 

He literally was that dream guy I had imagined in middle school.

I began to only want to watch mushy love movies and read all the Nicholas Sparks books. I craved slow music that told a story of a boy and a girl falling and staying in love.

I spent a majority of English class day dreaming of my wedding day and what the future held for Hunter and I.

He left on his mission and my world revolved around writing letters and making packages.

The thought of him coming home and finally being able to make our dream a reality consumed me.

When he came home, my mind looked like the perfect pinterest board of all things wedding.

We got married and I began feeling giddy over being a homemaker and creating a pretty home that we felt happy with calling ours. I took it upon myself to make a home cooked meal every night. My greatest accomplishment was making sure my football-playing husband's tummy was full.

Then one morning, I saw those two pink lines... and once again everything changed.

It didn't take long at all for me to spend countless hours looking for the best deals and reviews on strollers, diaper bags, clothes, car seats, bottles, and all things baby.

I probably drove Hunter nuts with the once a month breakdowns feeling inadequate to give this little girl everything she deserves in life.

I stayed awake at night planning out her nursery in my head and every moment I was awake I was making lists of things we needed to be ready.

My world had changed, because I became a mother.

I've always been pretty emotional.

I've also always hated crying in front of people.

It always makes me feel awkward and I don't like when people try to run to my rescue.

I even have a hard time crying in front of Hunter still.

So I tend to get that dry lump in my throat quite often as I try so hard to push the tears back.

But, something about motherhood changes your insides and suddenly you find a reason to cry over anything and everything.

Especially now that I'm at the very end of this pregnancy.

For example:

• Father daughter dances. It doesn't matter which song or who is dancing, you can catch me in the corner crying my eyes out and trying so hard to wipe my tears before anyone sees.
• Hearing her little heartbeat now compared to the first time. I remember that first appointment so well. It took a good 5 minutes to even find the heartbeat. Now, the second they put it on my belly I'm able to hear her happy, healthy heart beating away. At this last appointment I tried my hardest to hold back my tears when her heart started beating faster than usual after I said something to the nurse. She said "oh, she must know your voice!" and I just about lost it. She was excited. She was excited to meet us and join our family and that brought me all the happiness in the world.
• I walk into her room every morning and just pause at her empty crib. I try to picture my little girl just waking up with sleepy eyes all snuggled with her animal friends. I'll sit in the rocking chair and imagine reading her a bedtime story. I always stop by her closet and match pretty dresses with her darling bows. I fold and re-fold her onesies and leggings and pay special attention to the difference in size between newborn and 6 months. And that, is when the tears start. She's not aloud to grow up. Ever. 
• Any and every song that talks about a family really gets to me. I love my little growing family. I'm beyond excited for the three of us to do any and everything together.

I began feeling a little sad around week 36.
The reality set in of life being not just Hunter and I anymore.
I love our little one but I'll always cherish these memories of just the two of us, and I'm so grateful I've chosen my best friend to spend forever with.
I was listening to the song "Then" by Brad Paisley the other day.
It brought a flood of emotion and memories.
The first time I ever heard that song was on a bus ride over to a high school basketball game.
I was in my cheer uniform and Hunter was sitting behind me in his warm ups.
He tossed one head phone over the seat and that song was playing.
It made me cry back then, but it now has so much more meaning.
"And I can just see you, with a baby on the way..."
It truly is crazy to think about how far we have come.

And on that note, I think I've gotten everything in my mind typed out.
So I guess I'll stop here!
So I'll end by saying, I really really love this little life I'm living and I'm just getting more and more anxious to meet our little girl:)

All my love,
Aleigh Joy

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Thirty Eight. What?

Somehow, time flew by and I'm 38 weeks pregnant today.

I know, I can't believe it either!

Everyone told me that being pregnant is the slowest thing in the whole world.

I disagree, I feel like this pregnancy FLEW by!

I oddly found myself sad that soon, I won't be feeling her little kicks and hiccups inside my tummy anymore. 

However, I'm so happy and excited that I get to trade those kicks felt on the inside for baby snuggles and kisses on the outside :)

Her nursery is complete, the hospital bags are packed, her name is confirmed, the car seat is in the car, everything is checked off my list, her clothes are all washed and put away, and I truly don't believe we could be more ready for her. If you ever really are "ready" ;)

So little Miss O, we're ready when you are :)

I had an appointment on Friday.

 I was dilated to a 2, her head is down, and her heartbeat was MUCH lower than usual.

The nurse brought it up with Dr. Jones and they decided a non stress test was in order.

Insert first time mom panic.

I immediately began praying that all would be well and couldn't take my hands off my tummy.

Sitting there for 30 minutes listening to her little heartbeat was music to my ears, but seeing that it wasn't accelerating at all like it should be had me, and the nurse, a little worried.

We tried numerous things to get her to move but sleepy head was not at all interested in showing off.

The nurse left the room and said we would wait a little longer before we tried the "taser" I like to call it. (a little zappy thing that makes a noise to wake up sleepy babies)

I didn't like the idea of it so I started talking to my little girl asking her to please show them that she's a healthy little one.

A few seconds later, she woke up.

And we were out of there in 5 more minutes :)

We have a special bond already ;)

I thought we were in the clear and my worrying stopped, but I got a call yesterday from a nurse telling me Dr. Jones felt it necessary for me to do another test at the hospital. 

Though I was flattered that the receptionist thought I was there to visit someone and not for myself, I was still worried. So this time, I brought her daddy.

She must have inherited some stubbornness from her mother because once again, she was doing nothing. Like at all.

After seeing almost flat lines for much too long, another nurse came in and turned me on my side.

She wasn't as comfy that way because she began wiggling away and after an hour and a half of trying to get her to move, we were able to leave.

She's already scaring me and her life hasn't even began!

But the nurses assured me there was nothing wrong.

Oh, I also really enjoyed watching my contractions that I can't seem to feel.

One more story...

Last night I had the best dream I've ever had.

I dreamed that my sweet baby girl was born.

The dream fairy was nice enough to skip the whole labor part and fast forward straight to the first time I held her.

She was a little pink bundle with lots of brown hair and big brown eyes.

I loved her instantly and thought she fit absolutely perfect on my chest.

I have never woken up happier.

Except maybe the day after our wedding, but that's different.

I cannot wait to meet her!

And to see how much truth that dream holds :)

How Far Along: 38 weeks! And feeling it...

Maternity clothes: Same as always. Maternity jeans are a lifesaver. I'm really gonna miss them.

Weight Gain: Ha! The nurse asked me what my current weight is today and I told her I hadn't looked at the scale in longer than I can remember. She smiled understandingly. 

Showing: YES! I have a baby girl baby bump!

Sleep: I wish :( I guess it's time to say bye bye to sleep for like... the rest of my life. I wake up about every 2 hours and can't fall asleep again for another hour. 

Best moment this week: Completely finishing her nursery and seeing progression at my appointments :)

Weird pregnancy moment: Crying. Like all the time.

Movement: Less and less. But tons around 2 am. She likes to move, just not when she's supposed to ha.

Food Cravings: Rubios fish tacos, Cafe Rio/Costa Vida grilled chicken salad, smoothies still, in n out with lotsss of extra special sauce, peanut butter and chocolate, and bread. yuuumm

Anything making you queasy: No! Hallelujah!

Gender: All things girl. and if they're wrong, we're gonna have a serious problem because she has a whole lot of pink.

Best advice learned: Baby Wise. 100% Thank you thank you thank you mom!

 What I'm looking forward to: My baby girl! Not delivery, I'm actually becoming more and more nervous about labor. But holding her, yeah that sounds dreamy :)

I almost wanna make this my screen saver. Weird? It just melted my heart while doing laundry the other day. Baby, mommy, daddy! A family of 3 :)

A snuggly, pretty, pink, car seat for a little baby girl :)

Seeing daddy carrying her car seat to the car may have made me a little teary eyed. He looks so good as a dad ;)

That red line, that's her heartbeat. See how flat it was at first? That blue line, that's my contractions. That can't seem to be felt...

And that's all for now!

Maybe just maybe this will be my last update until she's born! :)

All my love,

Aleigh Joy

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30 whole weeks!

I have been growing a tiny person inside of me for 30 whole weeks!

I can't believe it!

This little girl is everything Hunter and I have dreamed of, and we haven't even met her yet!

I can't believe that this time next year I'll have a 10 month old!

Hunter the other day, told me that he hopes she starts walking right away so he can run around and play with her sooner haha!

He is so excited to be our little one's daddy.

Little girl's name starts with an "O" so I think I'll start calling her Baby O.

I think she likes her name, she always responds to it.

She's a crazy little thing.

I'll be on an airplane to Miami next week.

I sure hope this whole flying while pregnant thing goes well.

If you have any tips, feel free to let me know :)

How Far Along: 30 whole weeks! Hello third trimester!

Maternity clothes: Just wearing maternity pants. Which I'm still convinced are the greatest pair of pants any woman will ever own. As far as shirts go, I could not have chosen a more perfect time of year to be at the end of my pregnancy. (ha, chosen) Seriously, baggy sweaters, sweatshirts, and layers are wonderful. 

Weight Gain: Why did I even put this question on here? I don't know... I stopped looking at the scale when I go to the doctors office a while ago.

Showing: More than ever! My doctor said I'm still looking pretty small but that's not how I'm feeling haha.

Sleep: I LOVE sleep! Nights are beginning to get a little rougher. As expected. Finding a comfortable position can be tough but once I do find one I'm knocked out. That is, until I have to pee. Which is often.

Best moment this week: Getting little girl's room ready! We finally cleared out the furniture that was in that room and started arranging her stuff. There's not much in there but it's still feeling more and more like a nursery and that is so exciting! Plus, her crib skirt is just the sweetest thing.

Weird pregnancy moment: I never thought that people actually put their hands on your tummy without asking when you're pregnant. Turns out they do. Yeah that's been kinda weird. 

Movement: She lovessssss to move around! She still throws parties between 2 and 3 in the morning every day. She absolutely loves when daddy talks to her and gives her high fives. She wakes right up when she hears his voice, and it totally melts my heart. She's such a daddy's girl! Whenever Hunter lays his head on my tummy she kicks that exact spot. She's so excited to play with him already :) She also really loves food haha. She squirms quite a bit about 5 minutes after I'm done eating as if to say "that was good mommy, thank you!" I really love her :)

Food Cravings: Anything breakfast and fruit smoothies. Those have been around since the day I found out but now I'm also craving peppermint, dairy products (so weird, I hate dairy!), cold hot cheetos (really, I just keep them in the fridge), peanut butter, potatoes, and corn. I've never liked corn. I tolerated corn on the cob but now I don't care what shape or form it's in... I want it!

Anything making you queasy: Thoughts of the dinner I threw up when I had the stomach flu. Oh, and bad breath haha! I swear I can smell it from a mile away. It's your best bet to just chew some gum around me haha.

Gender: They're still saying it's a girl so I'm still loving picking out pretty dresses :)

Best advice learned: Your birth "plan" most likely won't go as planned. I like to make lists, know exactly what's going to happen, and exactly what needs to be done. But, since I've never done this before... I feel SO unprepared! So, it was good to hear that I just need to go in with an open mind and let nature take it's course. 

 What I'm looking forward to: My shower! It'll be a few days after Christmas and I cannot wait to feel "ready" for her to come haha. I'm also so excited to see all my friends back home! Yay!

Well, that's all for this week!
By the time I do the next update, I'll probably be much much bigger!
Yikes!

All my love,
Aleigh Joy

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