Week 17: Moooving Right Along

Dear Baby,

Mom’s belly is growing in more noticeable ways to make room for you.  This physical change is something I’ve obviously been anticipating.  I am excited it’s finally happening!  It sure is neat to witness your presence.  I am also having fun sharing these changes with friends and family.

The changes haven’t hindered my daily movements too much yet.  Although, when I sit a certain way for too long or my pants are too tight I feel uncomfortable.  I’m recognizing that it will soon get difficult to fold myself into various positions that I find comfortable.  The bright side of things – you’re reminding me to have good posture.

I’ve been told what some of your first movements, or quickening, might feel like.  Some describe it as bubbles, tickles, or butterflies.  I can’t say with certainty that I’ve felt you move, but I’ve felt something and so I assume it’s you. For me it’s felt the most like tickles or loosing your stomach.  Similar feelings to riding a roller coaster. I’m looking forward to the weeks to come where I’ll be able to distinguish your movements more clearly.  I’m also eager to share this experience with Dad.

Grandma Liz, your aunt Lizzie and I had some fun shopping for you this weekend.  I’ve mentioned previously that we are leaning towards using cloth to diaper you.  I’ve also said that there are so many options about there.  I’ve been diligent in my online research about products and methods that others use. Still, before I committed I wanted to get my hands on some of the products.  (This is a big commitment and I want to make sure I fully understand what I’m committing to.)  Grandma, Lizzie and I went to a store in the Twin Cities to ask more questions and get some hands-on experience with what will eventually become routine to Mom and Dad.  Grandma gifted us with a few variations of diapers so we can start learning what might mesh well with our schedule and laundry routine.  The newborn diapers are teeny!  Needless to say, I was very excited to show your dad!

We’re still looking for a new home.  Dad is online daily looking at options.  We’re scheduling showings and attending open houses.  Still, the search continues.

Tonight we went for a nice family run.  It was good to get some exercise in the cool, fall weather.  I hope you felt secure bouncing in Mom’s belly.  We sure felt good after the run!

Our first stash of cloth diapers.  Still lots to learn, but we're off to a really good start.  Thanks, Grandma Liz!

Week 17

Week 16: Heroes Don’t Just Wear Capes

Dear Baby,
Your daddy is a hero.  He is a hero in the eyes of many, but especially in Mama’s eyes. You don’t yet understand the feelings of freedom and security.  You still have to learn about the many men and women in our nation who make these luxuries possible.  Every day there are heroes working who sacrifice their lives for the well-being of others.  Your daddy, one of the very first people you’ll ever meet, is one of these brave men.


Another lesson you’ll be taught is the reason we remember these courageous people each year on September 11.  Your grandpa Dave is another man who has made great sacrifices for others in regards to this special date.  Your uncle Mike, who will soon join our nation’s military, is someone who already recognizes the need and importance of heroes in our country. 
Today, on the anniversary of September 11, when heroic men and women are honored and American lives are remembered, your dad was scheduled to work.  It was an unusually busy day in the City of La Crosse.  The city’s fire department and other emergency workers responded to two fires and a river rescue.  The fires were big.  The fires were dangerous.  The river rescue was scary.  Your dad, his co-workers and fellow emergency workers were brave.  They are all heroes.

Not only do I see your dad as a hero for his brave acts, but also for his compassion.  While your dad was working to keep people in our community safe, you and I attended a very special event that honors teachers.  It reminded me of the importance of compassion.  You and I met and celebrated with educators who give of their talents for the benefit of little learners.  At this event, the keynote speaker reminded attendees of how teachers have reacted during events like September 11 and other more recent terrorist attacks in schools.  Teachers act with compassion and love towards our nation’s children.  Teachers are heroes, too.

After the event, we stopped by Dad’s work.  Even after his long day, your dad held the stamina and patience to care about others.  He asked about our day.  He hugged us and assured us that he was safe after his busy day at work. I can’t wait for you to feel the comfort of resting in his arms.  It seems backwards that on a day when we are supposed to offer thanks to people like Dad, they are making sure we are safe.  But, that’s exactly what heroes do.

Always respect those who keep us safe. Remember to be kind and well behaved for your teachers in school. And please don’t take your freedom for granted.  There are many heroes who have sacrificed way too much for this cause.

I love you.  Your existence has already given me new perspective.

One of the fires dad helped put out today

Firefighters working hard to keep people safe

Week 15: Got Energy?

Dear Baby,

Monday was a holiday and the week began slow.  To put it frankly, your mom and dad celebrated Labor Day by being bums at home!  Dad putzed around with house projects while Mom slept into the afternoon.  I was exhausted!  Even running a tiny bit of errands seemed strenuous.   I believe I’m guilty for at least part of my sluggish feelings.  With the move, unpacking and organizing, plus traveling for Dad’s birthday, I hadn’t been making a point to get us some moderate exercise.  I assume my feel-good endorphin levels were a tad on the low end.

Still, I was a bit alarmed with how tired I felt until I learned yet another neat thing about the bodies of mamas during pregnancy.  Pregnancy hormones trigger our brains to tell our respiratory system to change.   The changes increase the depth and frequency of breaths, making me feel like I’m sucking wind after minor tasks.  Also, as my body becomes more selfish, for your benefit, my blood levels are increasing.  Currently, the plasma levels are increasing faster than red blood cells.  (In short, less oxygen-carrying vehicles in my body even though there’s more fluid)  Slowly the red blood cells will catch up.  For now, though, you’re getting all the good stuff.

Understanding this concept is possibly my first lesson in parenting.  It’s one I’m sure I will need to relearn again and again.  Sometimes your needs will come before my needs and I’ll be required to adapt.

Dad and I heard your heartbeat again.  It was easier to locate and recognize this time.  It was also much more clear and distinguishable from the white noise of the machine. Both good signs you’re growing in size.  Every few seconds we'd be listening to the "whoosh-whoosh-whoosh" of your heartbeat and a static sound would interrupt.  I'd liken this static interruption to the sound you get when tapping a microphone during a mic check.  Our midwife told us this noise was kicks. Even though I'm not able to feel movement yet, you sure are active!

I'm still feeling good.  You'd have to look close to tell I'm showing a tad.  So, for me it was a relief to visit the doctor and know all is well.  According to the week-by-week updates, you are about the size of an apple or orange (4 inches, crown to rump) and weigh 2.5 ounces.

I fought through and finally overcame my dreadful tiredness.  Twice this week I’ve had enough energy to go for a jog and explore our new neighborhood.  Temps were a little warm while running, but it felt good to exercise.  I’m excited to take Dad on the route I travel.

My advice to you: hang on in there!  The cooler temps of autumn are coming soon and Mom’s got some good motivation for running!  Let’s hope we can keep it up!

Week 14: Getting Settled

Dear Baby,

We’re feeling settled in more ways than one this week. We were able to get all our belongings moved over the weekend, so life is somewhat back to a normal flow. Mom is embracing pregnancy more and more each day. Your parents are both gaining confidence knowing our lives are about to change and that soon we’ll be responsible for you. And, Dad is slowly getting used to the fact that by the end of this week he’ll be 30! (Happy Birthday, Dave)

Mom’s belly is just starting to grow in noticeable ways. Watching this happen makes me smile. I know you’re growing comfortable inside me and I’m eager to see proof that you’re in there! What an amazing thing our bodies can do – grow humans!

I don’t want to speak too soon, but I’m anxious to share that we’re leaning towards using cloth to diaper you. Mom has been doing a lot of research. Cloth diapers have come a long way from where they started, Baby! Holy buckets are there options – too many to keep up with! I’m doing my best to educate myself and read about different options. My hope is to pick a few products that will match our lifestyle, laundry routine, and budget. I’ve learned that cloth diapers can save a lot of money, help prevent diaper rash, and aid a quicker transition into being potty trained! We’ll take it! If anyone has advice to offer about cloth diapers, I happily welcome your comments!


Stay comfy and get settled in there, little babe. We have another two trimesters to spend together! Looking forward to it!

My first day using a pregnancy secret so my pants were more comfortable

Week 14

Week 13: Out of the Old, Into the “New”

Dear Baby,

It’s moving week! I don’t have much time to write this week because Mom and Dad have been busy. We are packing up our entire house into cardboard boxes. The whole process is bittersweet. It’s exciting to dream ahead into our future and think about all the adventure that awaits us, but it is also sad knowing that a chapter of our lives is ending.

We have so many wonderful memories at our first, blue house in La Crosse. It’s the place that will forever make Mom’s heart go pitter-patter because it drums up memories of meeting, dating and falling in love with Dad. I can recall the times we spent being goofy together in that home. I know the exact spot we shared our first kiss on the living room couch after finishing a movie. As small as the bathroom was, I’ll miss crowding around the pedestal sink and taking turns to spit while brushing our teeth. I remember enjoying yard work together or cleaning on a lazy weekend. Your dad took so much pride in keeping that home looking nice! It seems we could make any mundane task fun inside that home. I hope that making chores fun is a trend that continues as our family grows.

I could go on for quite a while with memories in that house. But, I’m slowing turning into a sobbing mess as I write them. I should really be getting back to packing up the kitchen… One quick thing I want to note from this week. Mom and Dad had quite the feat. We rode our bikes all the way from the old house to the “new” house. That’s the Southside of La Crosse to Onalaska. Uffda! I say “new” because it’s our temporary home until we find the new house we’d like to purchase. For now, we’re renting and life is good.

Know we love you, little one.

Out of the OLD: Our final meal at our old house

Week 13

Into the NEW: Your first gift!  Adorable burp rags, comfy sleep 'n plays, and the tiniest little mittens so you don't scratch yourself!
Thanks to Mom's co-worker for the thoughtful present!

Week 12: Questions

Questions are an essential part of conversation.  As a former reporter and current television host, I know this. I have skillfully learned the art of question asking to fuel conversation.  This is either due my own personal interest in a given topic or the simple fact that to be successful in my career I must, at times, maintain healthy, interesting dialogue. 

Since my own wedding, I’ve learned there are a few questions one should anticipate.  Back that train up – the questions begin well before marriage.  When you’re single, family and friends want to know: 
“Are you dating anyone special?” 
“Who?  Tell us about him!” 
“Do you think he’s the one?” 
“Do you talk about marriage?” 
“Are you looking at rings?” 

Fast forward, engagement: 
“How did he propose?” 
“Were you surprised?” 
“When’s the big day?” 
“What will your wedding colors be?” 
“How many attendants will you have?” 
“Are you taking a honeymoon? Where?” 

Many of these questions are genuine and stem from people truly being excited for you.  I know this because I am guilty of firing this gamut of questions towards others. Then comes the ultimate, post-wedding question:  “Do you want kids?  How soon?" Immediately following our wedding Dave and I were bombarded with this question!  Yes, we knew we wanted children.  Together we developed a standard way to respond to these bold question-askers. 

My point in drawing out this question-asking saga is that with all these questions about future, how do we live in the moment and enjoy what’s happening right here and now?  It challenged me at times.  Luckily, I had Dave to help me return to the present moment when inquiries about the future swarmed.

Announcing pregnancy, I’m learning, brings it’s own set of questions.  This has made me realize that the questions will never stop.  Even once baby is here I know they’ll continue. That’s because there are so many people in our lives that are invested in me, in Dave, and in this baby.  They ask because they care!  What I need to do is use the questions as assistants in keeping me grounded and living in the current moment.  After all, if we hadn’t just announced that a baby is on his or her way, people wouldn’t be asking these questions, right? 

Dear Baby,

Everyone is very curious about you!  As Mom and Dad continue to share the good news, we are also funneling many questions!  We think it’s fun to answer.  It helps build our excitement for your arrival – something that seems so far away right now.  We’d like to share with you some of the questions that people are asking about you:

When are you scheduled to arrive? 
According to online due date calculators and what nurses tell us, your predicted due date is February 23.  This is solely based on the date of Mom’s last cycle.  We think it’s pretty accurate, but will feel more confident after your first ultrasound.  Whether or not this will be your birthday is ultimately up to you. 

How has Mom been feeling while you grow?
The simple answer is well.  So far you haven’t caused me any sickness.  There have been minor moments of feeling nauseous and sluggish, but nothing dramatic.  You haven’t hindered me for keeping a regular exercise routine – yet! That said, I am able to feel your presence more and more.  When I stretch or move a certain way my body feels different.  The nurse says that is normal.  The biggest change is that you’ve made me feel tired.  I’ll chalk it up as good practice for what’s to come. 

Do we want to know your gender? 
Not until you are born!  I have always wanted to keep gender a surprise.  Your dad thinks this will be exciting, too.  This is a God-gifted surprise and we want to bask in the suspense!  We think it will be fun to share this information along with the announcement of your arrival.  I think it will help us not plan too much for you.  It allows you to just be you! 

Is Dad excited?
Of course!  And very supportive!  He has been very accommodating, too.  Your dad has always been patient with children and I enjoy watching him interact with young kids.  Since learning about you it makes my heart melt to see his generosity and love towards little ones. 

Some say forgetfulness is a side effect of pregnancy.  Whether or not science can prove this remains up for debate.  Either way, your mom was a space cadet today.  One of the stops while running errands was the grocery store.  I made my way down the list and through the store isles.  I paid for the groceries, thanked the man who bagged them, headed to the parking lot, and loaded my car.  I drove home, unloaded the groceries, and began putting them away.  While reorganizing the refrigerator to allow room for everything to fit I realized the small yogurt packs were missing!  This is the reason I went grocery shopping in the first place – I wanted yogurt for the morning!  I must have left a bag in the shopping cart!  I hopped back in my car, peeled out of the driveway and drove straight to the grocery store.  I flagged down the cart corral boy and asked about the missing bag.  Nothing.  I visited guest services in search of a sack of abandoned yogurt packs.  Nothing.  I learned that if I had my receipt I could turn it into security who would review tape footage and determine if another guest took my yogurt.  This was not an option for me.  This is because I had left the receipt on the kitchen counter back home.  Saddened and frustrated with myself I called your dad at work.  He laughed with me and said everything would be okay.  Once back home I went through my grocery receipt, item by item, taking things out of cupboards that I had already put away. While intently crossing off items that were accounted for it dawned on me – I never bought small yogurt packs!  I opted or the bulk yogurt that came in a larger container.  This tub of yogurt was hidden in the bottom of a large grocery sack.  Oh, the embarrassment…

Get used to it.  Your dad and I are sure to embarrass you many more times throughout your life.  Just know it’s out of love.  I hope you enjoy our yogurt that we’re having for breakfast tomorrow!

Checking off the grocery list...

The elusive yogurt

Week 12

Your first cards :)

Week 11: Secret’s Out!

Dear Baby,
Where did the summer go?!?  July just flew by for Mom and Dad!  We started the month with big news – we sold our house!  As of August 28^th we will no longer be residents of 15^th Street in La Crosse, Wisconsin.  All credit in this process must go to your dad.  He took care of many important phone calls, paperwork and arranging appointments.  It’s strange to think that in a few short weeks the place we’ve called home will belong to someone else.  Someday we will be able to return to the neighborhood and reminisce about early memories.  We look forward to showing you where Mom and Dad spent their first years together.

July also began by joining in multiple celebrations for the 4^th of July with various friends.  Our friends Pat, Megan, Chet and Alison invited us to their pre-Fourth party for a relaxing evening with delicious food and good conversation.  We also made a trip to Lake City to spend time with Mandy and her family.  We went on boat rides, went swimming and rode mopeds all day!  (Read: Mom was addicted to riding mopeds)  We went on the annual Duchrow family summer vacation to Eagle River in northern Wisconsin.  Here, we went swimming, boating and jet-skiing.  We enjoyed homemade cabin meals, campfires and card games.  Dad picked-up some overtime shifts throughout the month at work and Mom was an adult leader for a week-long high school youth mission trip to Cass Lake, Minnesota.  We were also lucky enough to be guests at two weddings in July– both of which we had to travel for.  Yes, all this happened in July.  Needless to say, we were on the move quite frequently!

We crammed everything we possibly could into our schedules in July knowing that when August rolled around we could just relax… (sigh of relief)  Yeah right!  August welcomed the Duchrow home by reminding us that we have less than a month to pack-up our entire home and move!  That said, along with packing we’re still finding time for fun.

This month we were able to announce YOU! We started by sharing the fabulous news of you with family.  Then, close friends.  Your grandparents were shocked – in a good way, of course.  Everyone is ecstatic and can’t wait to see proof that you’re actually growing in Mama’s belly.  It’s been so fun to share the news about you.  It helps Mom and Dad realize the reality that you are officially on your way! Baby, I know by all the positive reactions we’ve been receiving that there are already so many people who love you and are anxious to meet you.

On August 5^th we got to hear something pretty neat for the first time – the faint sound of your rapid, little heartbeat.   When we arrived at the scheduled doctor appointment, I was nervous.  Before that day, I wasn’t fully convinced of the things happening inside my body.  Your dad held my hand, reminded us that there is much to be excited for and that we need to enjoy every emotion – even if we’re nervous.  He’s so wonderful for so many reasons and I can’t wait for you to feel his love.

As I write this, re-read and make some minor edits, I’m reminiscing on all the craziness of our past month.  Our world was hectic, but we rolled with it quite beautifully.  As your parents, my hope is that we can continue to “Duchrow With It.” It’s a phrase your dad and I have coined to remind us that life will be hectic, not go as planned and sometimes bring stress.  But, if we continue with our communication and trust in each other, and remember to include God, nothing will be impossible.  As I move into pregnancy, my personal goal is to enjoy everything – planned and unplanned, calm and hectic, laughable and tearful, joyous and stressful.  I only get to go through this as a first-timer once, and I want to enjoy all of it.

Here is your Aunt Lizzie playing in her softball tournament!

This is what we were doing the day we told Mom's side of the family that you were on your way.  Lizzie is an AWESOME athlete, she will have lots to teach you!