The Baldwin Experience: My Journey Through Life

Today I am 27-years-old... Kind of hard to believe. I have been thinking a lot about birthdays lately and the associated significance. Even when you're at the point (age) that a birthday loses its "luster", it is still a day that people acknowledge and celebrate. For example, today I came into work and our receptionist (Sue) had a birthday card for me and a homemade Texas sheet cake (I didn't even know what a Texas sheet cake was, but I am glad I do now! ;-)). Now that I am pregnant, the importance of a birthday is more real to me now... There is a lot that happens "scientifically", physically, emotionally, etc. that leads to the birth of a baby and I am so excited for Bennett to join us and for that special arrival date (whenever that may be)! I heard this recently: "Enjoy your pregnancy... it's the only 'real' chance you'll have to assist God in making a miracle". I agree with this whole-heartedly! :-) It has been awhile since I p...

Wow, I have LOTS of pregnancy updates! :-) Quinn and I went to St. Louis last weekend where our good friends Billy and Jess hosted a "couples baby shower" for us! Jess, Kristin and Catherine really pulled it together, we felt so loved! Also, my good friend Jodi gave us ALL SORTS of great baby things that were basically unused from her little one Amelia, as well as the cutest new baby clothing set! We are really appreciative of our friends and everything they did for us! The party started at 7pm at Billy and Jess'... There were appetizers and lots of "adult beverages" for the non-preggos in the room ;-), as well as St. Julian's sparkling wine for me. Billy, of course, had techno on, and we opened our presents and ate all kinds of goodies! I have to say... it was the coolest shower I've been to thus far. Then we went out, and I made it until 12:30am, which was pretty impressive for me as of lately. Also, it was 80 degrees and sunny for most of the weekend,...

Take a look at the picture above... This is the general "positioning" of baby Bennett at this stage in the game. No WONDER those jabs and kicks are getting so much more intense... He doesn't have as much room to "roam around"!! We had an appointment yesterday and everything is still great! I have gained 19 pounds :-), I'm measuring 29cm, my blood pressure is still 100/60, Bennett's heart rate was 140 and all the blood tests came back negative from the glucose screening. Yay! Also, I asked doc to check out the small red spots I have been noticing on my chest (just below my collar bone). He said I had spider angioma. Wikipedia says "Spider Angioma is a skin condition characterized by a central and elevated red dot, about the size of a pinhead, from which small blood vessels radiate (looking like a spider). They are often associated with high estrogen levels during pregnancy." AWESOME! Ahhh, the joys of pregnancy ;-)... The good news is that...