Hello 3rd Trimester

And just like that I'm entering the third trimester. 25 weeks so just hit 6 month mark. I had a doctor's appointment on Friday and everything is looking great. Total weight gain so far is 15 pounds. We recently took down all the saved clothes from Hannah and Jack and I spent hours sorting clothes. It was fun to pull Jack's little things and get them ready for Collin. It was equally as hard giving away 10 trash bags full of Hannah's beautiful and expensive clothes each one holding a special memory to me. I hope some new mommy will enjoy seeing her little girl in them as much as I did. After the new year and Hannah's SIXTH birthday I need to step into gear making sure I'm ready to go. Here's month 6 bump watch.

My Little Cub

Let's see how many of you actually check this blog...The name reveal is here. I'm 24 weeks. Baby boy is the size of an ear of corn and I think you will all be surprised by the next bump watch picture at how much I've grown. The baby is officially viable which is both a blessing, but also gives me anxiety because I want him to cook much much longer and be a very healthy little boy. Ok on to what I know you really care about, WHAT IS HIS NAME? I'm excited to share that our sweet baby is COLLIN JAMES TATUM. Collin was actually our runner up with Jack and we obviously have continued to like it. I believe Tim was the first to throw the name out there 4 years ago with Jack. Everyone has their own strategy when trying to select a baby name. I methodically go through the name book starting with As and ending with Zs. Other people may google 'biblical names' or 'unusual names.' Then there is Tim. Tim's approach is to go through various sport team rosters. No surprise that his list included Collin, Corey, and Clayton. Four years ago, Collin made his list for two reasons, one individual we no longer speak of because he is a disgrace to America, but he did play for Daddy's favorite football team the 49ers. The other is Colin Cowheard who's a sports radio personality. Baby is not technically named after anyone, but when Collin made the list I knew we had to spell it with two Ls. This is because my mom's maiden name is Collins. It's also my brother's middle name. I think it makes me love the name Collin even more because it feels like home to me. The middle name James was chosen because it's Tim's middle name. Like father like son. Fun fact, my grandpa's name was James Collins. I hope he's looking down smiling and I hope my son grows up to be as good of a man as he was. The department of social security indicates that Colin/Collin was the 172nd most popular name in the US last year. This officially makes it the most unusual name of my three kids. Collin means 'little cub.' Most people are proud to share their child's name means brave or strong, etc., but I just love this because he's my littlest cub and I am definitely a Momma Bear. I love you sweet Collin, my little cub!

Half Way There

Am I the only one who breaks out into Bon Jovi "Living on a Prayer" lyrics when I say 'Half Way There?' It really is crazy to think that 20 weeks are down, 20 to go. Baby is the size of a mango. Not much new to report since last week, I just wanted to share my month 5 bump watch picture. This past week we enjoyed Halloween and cousin Ben's baptism. Can't wait for you to be here with us to join in all the fun.

19 Weeks

Baby boy was confirmed today. Not that the last photo left anything for debate, but baby is for sure 100% a boy. Today I had my high risk ultrasound at the special clinic. I did this with Jack too to rule out cleft palate/lip/nose. Both the kids came with me and it ended up being an hour and 15 minute ultrasound. WOW! longest ultrasound of my life. I was expecting max 20 minutes. I kept thinking they saw something wrong, but nope he is perfect. And surprisingly my threats worked and Hannah and Jack stayed in their chairs for over an hour. Even the doctor complimented how well behaved they were so baby three, if you're listening, you have some big shoes to fill. When we walked through the doors of the hospital, Hannah said "Mom, if the baby has a cleft palate, I'm going to cry." It broke my heart because I was feeling the same way, but I love seeing her sweet motherly side. I know she will always protect my two boys and they will do the same for her. Doctor is 95% certain that the baby is cleft free. Lip and nose are easier for them to tell, but he was pretty sure the palate looked closed. Woo Hoo! so happy. Brain, heart, liver, kidneys, bile ducts, spinal cord, etc all looked perfect. They also checked all of my parts like uterus, ovaries, cervix, etc and said I look good. They were slightly concerned that baby's heart rate was 111. I guess they prefer over 120, but the doctor said that the rhythm of the beats looked normal and the structure was good so told me not to worry. I also got a call this week that my screenings for down syndrome, trisomy 18 and fragile X all came back good. Baby is the size of a sweet potato. The measurements today indicated he was 10 oz. I have been feeling lots of movement lately which is fun. Not so fun is the heart burn which is attacking already and my separated pelvis which I got 6 years ago with Hannah. The baby/fluid is heavy enough now that it puts pressure on the injury. I know it sounds bizarre probably to most that after six years it returns, but it truly is very painful. It's the worst when I walk long distances and when I try to put pants/underwear on (lifting one leg and stepping up motion).Not much new on the name front. Hannah and Jack are pulling hard for Tom. I have no idea why, but they love it and call him baby Tom all day long. Next week half way point bump watch...



Hannah loves this one because it looks like he's doing 'gymnastics'


I've never had a thumb sucker, could he be the first?

Month 4 Bump Watch

16 Weeks. This pregnancy is flying by and knock on wood I feel great. Baby boy is the size of an avocado, or as your brother Jack likes to say the size of a donut. Much more exciting than always being referred to as a fruit or vegetable. I have started to feel slight flutters a few times per week. Getting excited for some bigger movements shortly. Many of you have asked about names. We don't have one yet, but a few possibilities in the works.

Snips and Snails and Puppy Dog Tails

I am the type of person who has to know the gender of a baby as soon as humanly possible. From the moment myself or anyone dear to me is pregnant I have the feeling that I must know. I don't like surprises. I just want to start bonding with my baby as a boy or girl, give it a name, get it's clothes out of boxes, paint the room, etc. That's when it all becomes real to me. I'm 15 weeks and had to go back for another ultrasound because of the hematoma. I was actually really happy to do so because I wanted confirmation of the gender. What you readers don't know (and don't be mad) is that we were actually told at our 12 week scan that tater tot #3 was a boy. We were all four in the room to hear the news. But something was different than previous pregnancies. With Hannah and Jack I was making phone calls before my feet even stepped foot in the elevator. I'm not sure if it's the fact that I've known more and more people getting the wrong results at early ultrasounds (including baby's newest cousin Ben who was a 'girl' for a few weeks) or if I just needed time to let it all sink into my brain, but for whatever reason, the four of us kept it to ourselves. With that said, I was very excited to hear confirmation at the 15 week scan. Well, the ultrasound tech was correct it's team blue all the way. My sweet boy is healthy and growing. The hematoma is gone! Jack was sitting next to me and so happy when they told him mommy can finally pick him up again. All along Hannah has guessed girl and Jack has guessed boy. I'm pretty sure he thinks he won something, but really it just means he has to share all his things. I kid, he did win. He won big, the biggest gift anyone can ever win. I am so happy he will have a brother and best friend for life. I hope they always realize just how lucky they are. Jack is the cutest and sweetest thing I've ever laid my eyes on. He is my snuggle bear, gives me 100 kisses a day and they must be "on the lips" as he says. He is always happy and gentle and kind. I pray his little brother is exactly like him. As for Hannah, she remains the sole princess. I know she will be the best sister to both her brothers and it gives me peace to know they both have her. I had to change my appointment to while Hannah was at school because she had her first girl scout meeting in the afternoon. She was disappointed that she had to miss the official reveal and requested that I tell her as soon as I saw her, so Jack surprised her with a gift at pick up. It was a very simple, but sweet moment for me to watch. I am a very blessed mommy!




Money shot is on bottom


Our littlest pumpkin is a BOY

12 Weeks

Today marks the end of the first trimester. I was reflecting today on how fast it went by and I think it's simply because life is so busy you don't have time to stop and think. With Hannah I lived up North. I went to work and came home and talked to Tim. That was about it. With Jack I only worked 2 days and Hannah still napped so I had two hours every day to sit and think about my sweet baby growing. Tatum Tot 3 and I don't even go to the bathroom alone so the days move fast and here I am 12 weeks! Good news is I'm feeling less sleepy. First trimester I felt a slight steady nausea throughout the day. Between 1-4pm I felt so tired, like sleepy tired. I think I'm on the upswing. Woo Hoo. Also different is how fast I am showing. With the first two I swear I could have hidden the belly until 16-18 weeks. I am officially showing to anyone who knows me. I was at the park today and ran into a mom I met two years ago through Singers and Dance. I ended up telling her, and she laughs and says "I totally thought you were just bloated." I've always thought months 4-5 are the most awkward. You're not a 'cute pregnant lady' you just look like you ate a huge lunch. I can't fit into my regular pants, yet I'm not ready for full blown maternity wear, hence most days my pants are unbuttoned and no one knows the difference. Shhh, our secret. Today I had my third ultrasound. Baby looks great. Heart rate was 159 and they were waving to us the whole time. Hannah, Jack and Tim were all there as well to wave back. I also did the first trimester blood work to screen for Down Syndrome and a few other disabilities. Fingers crossed it all comes back great. The hematoma is still there, but getting so much better. I'm sure by the 20 week scan it will be totally gone.

Month 3 Bump Watch


The wave. I love this pic


Cousin Ben will be here any day (Due tomorrow) so Auntie Katie and I were happy to get one photo of the babies in the belly together. Hannah and Weston love each other like siblings and they are 9 months apart. I hope Ben and Baby 3 have the same kind of relationship.

Go Rattlers!

A week after Jack's 3rd birthday was another big event in the Tatum house. Hannah started kindergarten at Robinson Elementary (Daddy's old work stomping grounds). She was very excited with a side of nerves. I think it helped as we walked the mile walk to the room (no joke, first day of school madness) we were stopped a million times by teachers/admins/secretaries all wanting to see her dad and wish her well. We felt slightly famous, now if only he could pull off a staff parking permit for us next year, we'd be golden. Back to the mile walk, looking back, I'm so glad I had that moment. Holding her little hand as it gripped mine tightly is a memory I won't forget. It was sort of her way saying I'll always need you even when I let go. I am so proud to be her mom it's crazy. I know she was nervous, but she acts with such maturity and poise. Her teacher is Mrs. Keller and the room looked amazing. Hannah is loving school so far. Each day she reports that her favorite activity was recess. Each night she sets out her outfit selection for the next morning complete with matching shoes and hair accessory. She has looked so cute each day. I know Hannah will be successful in school, but it's so symbolic of my first baby growing up. I remember when it was just me and her hanging out in our little apartment with nothing to do. The world was ours. Life has gotten much much busier to say the least. We run from one activity to next. While I miss her like crazy, I'm excited to have new moments of togetherness with baby 3. Hannah going to school has reminded me to slow down and enjoy because before long I'll take my last long walk in to kindergarten and let go. Hannah loves to think about how she will be in 6th grade and the oldest on campus when her new baby brother or sister starts kindergarten. Until then, I'll try to slow my pace, smell the flowers, and hold onto those little hands as long as they will let me.

9 Weeks

One positive thing about having some issues in pregnancy is that you get to see your sweet baby a lot. Yesterday I went back for my week follow up regarding the blood clot. Baby looks great, very healthy. Last week it just had arm/leg buds and this week it had long arms and legs moving around which was fun to see. Heart rate was strong (170). The blood clot is unchanged. It's good news that it hasn't grown, but obviously I would have liked to hear that it was shrinking. I'm going to try even harder to rest these next two weeks and hope we see a decrease in the next scan. I love you already so much sweet baby and I'm dying to know if you're a boy or a girl.



When I showed this to daddy he didn't realize that you're upside down and he said "it looks like there's a bow on it's head!" That (bow) like shape is really your legs bent, but it made me laugh. He said up until he saw the "bow" he was 100% sure you were a boy, but he said the 'bow sign' has given him a little bit of doubt and that you might be a girl. The hematoma is the dark area on lower right.



You had your arm and fist up by your face.

It's Time to PAW-TY

While this blog is mostly for baby three to look back on their first year journey, it's fun to include some big events in the family life as well. This past weekend your big brother turned 3. It honestly feels like yesterday he was born and now it's your turn. It makes me want to cherish every moment even more with you because I know how fast time really does go. We celebrated at our house with a Paw Patrol theme. Jack had a great time. I think his favorites were being sung too, opening presents, playing games and eating cake. On Monday, his actually birthday he chose to eat a donut, go to the little zoo, play at the park, and have dinner at Pick up Stix. (Now, back to that pelvic rest)...Jack is such a sweet, loving, funny, gentle, smart and fun little guy that I know you two are going to be best buds and have so much fun together. Happy Birthday Big Brother! We love you!

8 Weeks

Today was the first time I got to see my sweet baby. Being blessed with three miracles is the greatest gift. Even on the third it's hard to believe there is a little life inside of me. I was so happy to see that little baby, one of the best feelings in life. Hannah and Jack came to see their brother/sister up on the big screen as well. Hannah had her fingers crossed in the chair chanting 'twins, twins, twins.' Mommy is officially having one healthy baby. It's the best feeling ever to see that heart flicker. We got to hear the beat at 175 bpm. The baby was so cute already with little arm and leg buds. My due date is March 24th, but the ultrasound tech indicated that the baby is big already measuring into week 9. I think Hannah was always like that as well. Unfortunately I do have a subchorionic hematoma (aka: blot clot that gets between the baby and placenta and rips the placenta away). It can be potentially dangerous to the baby, but in most cases they clear up on their own. I had one with Jack and look how perfect he is :) I know God has this baby in his hands as well. I've been put on pelvic rest and need another ultrasound in 7 days to make sure it's not growing. Yesterday I had 7 tubes of blood taken. Big brother Jack in turning 3 next week so we will see how that whole pelvic rest concept works out, but I will certainly do my best. Nausea still comes and gos. I also feel dizzy at times and get a bad cramp in my right leg. I swear I am already showing (visible only to those who know me best.) I actually really like being pregnant and feel so special that I get to protect my little one. Baby is currently the size of a raspberry. Jack loves to ask how much longer until baby is the size of a doughnut? We all laugh at him. We love you sweet baby and mommy gets to see you again in one week! Until then, stay healthy and keep growing.

Family of Five

Hello again, it's been awhile. I was starting to worry this blog would never have the opportunity to be resurrected. So sit back, relax and enjoy the ride while the Tatum Family becomes five. I've always wanted three children. I have been blessed with the two most amazing mini humans who are honestly my best friends, but confession, I often found myself staring at family photos and pondering what they would look like with another little in the mix. But as they say life goes fast. I feel like I've blinked and Jack will already be three next month. Somewhere between enjoying life, running to 101 activities, and some days just simply keeping our heads above water I feel like time has gotten away from us. We recently moved to a bigger home. Room for five one could say. We've even had a baby crib built and ready in the third bedroom since the day we moved in. Some have laughed at me or thought I was weird. Suggestions were thrown my way to make the room an office, a guest room, a man cave, or a play room "for now." But I knew better. I could feel you were meant to be mine, so the room has always been yours, you have always been wanted. In fact Hannah and Jack have referred to the third room as 'the baby's room' since the day we moved in. I am so happy that you are finally on your way, our missing puzzle piece. We love you and can't wait for you to complete our family.

At the beginning of June Tim and talked about making this family of five a reality or finding contentment with our current blessings. Before I knew it, I was staring at two bright pink lines in total shock. It took me a day to digest and wrap my head around the idea that I was a mommy to three. I found out on Sunday the 10th which was pretty early. I didn't technically miss a period until Friday the 15th. Patience is not a virtue of mine and I hate surprises so testing early and often is kind of my thing. I knew Tim had a doctor's appointment the next day and would be out of the house which was the perfect opportunity to surprise him so for 24 hours it was just me and you kid, our secret. As soon as Tim left the next morning I told the kids. I video taped it so Tim could later see their reaction. Hannah screamed out of excitement followed by crying saying "I'm so happy we're having a baby." She has wished for this moment for a long long time. Jack was equally as cute attempting to copy his sister's expressions and quickly stating he thinks it's a boy. From there, we moved fast off to party city for balloons, snap some photos at the park, target for instant prints and we were ready for dad. When he got home the kids couldn't wait to hand him the 'gift' He stood stunned for a few minutes but was so happy. Below is the picture we surprised dad with. So there you have it, that's how we became a family of five.

As for me, it's super early like I said. I am 4 weeks as I write this. I won't see the doctor for at least another month. I feel good, but again early. My gut thinks you are a boy. You should be born right around daddy's birthday. I started this journey at 112 lbs. I really wouldn't say I had cravings with Hannah or Jack and despite the fact that you are only the size of a seed, I swear all I want is sauce. Particularly bbq, mustard and ranch and sometimes all three together. Daddy says you are for sure a Tatum because he loves sauce and he has never really seen me put sauce on anything. I am already waking up at night a lot, but I was refreshing my maternity knowledge via google and it said the nightly bathroom attacks get better soon. The best part so far is the interactions between Hannah and Jack and you already. Every single day, Jack asks "What's the baby doing now?" or says "I want baby out now." Hannah touches my stomach and sings to you. She's planning every outfit, toy and nursery decor. Every thing the kids see me eat they ask 'does the baby like that?' This is what I wanted, this is what I hoped for. I love you sweet baby and feel so blessed to be your mommy. I promise to do my best and love you forever.