October 2006 Mommies : 2nd Trimester

[marathongirl]

she-ra - I'm definitely feeling flutterings and it's SO nice!

lawgirl - when I was PG w/ DD, I thought my hips/thighs actually looked smaller - probably b/c my belly got so big! But it was a nice illusion :) .

nutter - the last time I painted my nails was for my wedding. Sorry I'm not help there.

Tater - good luck with your appt!

MichelleRenee - sorry you're sick!

Hello to everyone else!

I had my 16 week appt this morning. Everything is good. Heard the baby's h/b nice and loud and strong. According to the OB's scale, I was up 3 lbs from last appt. Must have been all that candy I ate yesterday :rolleyes: .

Threadmistress - my next appt is May 15 for the big u/s. But we won't be asking to find out the sex. Thanks!

[pickle]

Morning everyone! Hope you all had nice Easters/Passovers/weekends!

QOTD: I have higlighted my hair and gotten a mani/pedi in the past week, so yeah, I'm not too worried about it. I waited until I was out of the first tri to do my hair (mostly because I was afraid I'd need to puke in the middle of getting it done). The smells really didn't bother me, and I must say that sitting in that massage chair having my feet rubbed during the pedi was heavenly. :)

Looking pg/feeling fat: When I went for my mani and pedi the girls at the nail salon could tell I was pg. I was pretty excited because that's the first time anyone has asked me about the baby without my telling them first. I think I've popped a bit. I was on the smaller side to begin with, although about 5 lbs above where I *like* to be. So far I've only gained about 4 lbs, and I'm just trying not to think about it too much. My body will figure out what it needs. Although last night I put on a pair of juicy sweats and they felt suspiciously tight in the thighs. I just hope the body remembers that the baby is in the belly, not the thighs!

Thyroid drama continues: My doctor called me back on Saturday morning--my TSH was normal. But, she said it was definitely on the low side of normal and that she thinks I'm likely borderline hyperthyroid (so the opposite of what you girls are). She wants me to see an endocrinologist to keep an eye on things, although she isn't sure whether/how I'll be treated. So I freaked myself out on the internet again for a while (I know, bad idea) and then went for a walk by the lake to calm down. I'm relieved that my numbers were in the normal range, but frustrated that there are no clear-cut answers at the point.

emermel, glad to hear everything is okay!

lawgirl, so happy you got some relief from the headaches!

Nice belly shots, marathon! I think you've definitely popped. You too Pamela--that bed rest must be agreeing with the baby!

Hope you feel better soon, MichelleRenee.

ETA- I'm so jealous of all of you feeling the baby move. I keep concentrating to try to feel him, but usually all I get is my stomach growling!

[Bubeleh]

Sounds like everyone has a relaxing weekend.

I'll second the caffine for headaches, works for me!

Nutter: I've gottent he green light for highlights but not overall color. But I think each Dr. has their own opinion. I have a great colorist and she covered up the gray/white in front as good as I could have expected. The smell was strong when she was doing the front but no worse than pre-preg. I get a manipedi about once a month and its a wonderful experience. I don't smell anything there either, but I just get a simple polich no major fills or anything. Try and sit near a door or fan, that should help any strong smell.

FAT Count me in for this. I definitely feel chunky in the waist not pg. I feel the hardess of the uterus getting higher so I hope that means its going to start popping soon. I've always been more of a tom-boy /baggy clothes kind of girl, so I've been able to hide a lot so far. I really think if we would not have told anyone I could probably make it a few more weeks without anyone knowing.

Flutters Nothing here, but I'm hoping in the next couple weeks. My big U/S is in 14 days so atleast I'll have a video fo the baby and possible know the sex if they don't come by then. :D I'm not anal or anything ( ;) ) I just have on my work calendar a countdown to the BIG U/S!!!

Hope everyone has a great Monday!

[MidwesternGal]

Morning!

lawgirl--yup, caffiene definitely helps my headaches, too. Works better than Tylenol, in my opinion.

QOTD: Highlights/Manis: I all ready highlighted my hair and got all over color. I did at 12 weeks. I am not worried. I mean, I rarely see a pregnant woman with 2 inches of outgrowth. . . . if it was really that big of a problem to the baby, then pretty much no one would do it. Plus, you only have to go in about 3 times. I asked my doctor and she had no problem with it at all. If you are still in the sicky-icky stage though, you might want to stay away because of the smell! Manis, I don't get/do, and yes, I will continue to paint my toenails.

Flutters: Nope, none here. I can feel (on the inside at least) my uterus is still growing, but nothing that would resemble the baby.

Well, I'm off to bed--I'm exhausted after this weekend--my boss wanted to send me home at 9:00 am!! I said I might take him up on that in the dead heat of August!! (No air conditioning in the back room/work room!!)

[TaterBaby]

Just returned from my appointment and here's what my dr. told me...
I asked about how much tylenol I could take for these terrible headaches I've been having. She said no more than 1,000 mg 4 times per day. She then asked if I had cut out caffeine and I said yes and she said "go drink a diet coke!"

I asked about coloring my hair and she has no problem with it. She just said not to go every 4 weeks, but to wait as long as I can between colorings. I'm making my hair appt. today.

It took her awhile to find the heartbeat. We would hear 2 or 3 beats in one place and then it would move. She finally got it and it was fast! I'm anxious to time it when my doppler arrives.

I am up 4 lbs since my last visit and that makes 4 lbs total.

BIG U/S is scheduled for May 10th! Next OB appt is May 12.

[maplekitty]

Here's my latest shots

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid204/p2ddee2db9ea1e1dd18f21c1882be3680/ef64d4db.jpg

[lawgirl4]

interesting to hear that caffeine has worked for so many of us! good to know, though I hope I won't be needing headache remedies too frequently from here on in...

just wanted to drop off some new photos, from last Thursday - a bit overdue!

threadmistress, please use the collage photo, thanks!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/preggo/14wkcollage.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/preggo/IMG_3420.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/preggo/IMG_3424.jpg

[MichelleRenee]

Thanks everyone, but I am sick, sick sick! This is the worst head cold I have ever had. My doctor said I could take Benadryl for allergies, which I thought this was, so I did and it didn't help at all. Then I was mad at myself for taking medication for no reason.

My head (face) hurts so bad, my nose is so stuffed, and I feel achy all over.

Tomorrow morning we leave for 3 days for my grandpa's funeral in Indiana so I won't be around until Thursday. I have everyone has a good week.

[Lily]

QOTD - Would anyone be interested in taking over my position as co-threadmistress? I'm in my last quarter of college and not able to devote the proper amount of time to help Ericka out. Just IM me and I'll give you the information.

[Lily]

QC – Great looking u/s picture. I’m glad that your NT Scan went well.

marathongirl – Thank you for the congrats. We’re pretty excited too. Nice looking belly pics.

emermel – I hope that the spotting stopped, and you had fun with your family.

Michelle – I’ve had some pain in my hips at night while sleeping on my side. I think it may be round ligament pain. It doesn’t last very long though.

jeant – Congratulations on your book being published, that’s so exciting.

Pamela – Nice belly pics.

lawgirl – I just had my quad screening and am waiting for the results. I’m praying that all is well and an amnio won’t be necessary.

Michelle Renee – I hope that you’re feeling better. Colds are the worst.

I hope that everyone had a good Easter. I was sick all day yesterday with nausea so I just laid low. This is the first year that I actually didn't cook anything. Oh well, I'll make up for it next year. It's strange but it's like I can feel that the baby is growing. I've just felt "thicker" around the waistline the past couple of days. I even went out and bought a few maternity pants for work.

Sorry if this is too personal, but what are you all doing about panty sizes? Do they make maternity underwear, or what? I'm finding that my current sizes are just too tight around my ab area. TIA. :)

*Edited because I can't seem to spell today.*

[maplekitty]

Sorry if this is too personal, but what are you all doing about panty sizes? Do they make maternity underwear, or what? I'm finding that my current sizes are just too tight around my ab area. TIA. :)



I'm a devoted thong wearer, and I can't see anything that would make me wear full bum panties - so I've just gone out and bought a bunch of new undies one size up.

[marathongirl]

lily - I just bought one size up from my regular undies. After a while, they sat under my belly anyway.

lawgirl and maplekitty - nice belly shots!

I can't believe we're already at the point where peopl eare finding out the gender. This pregnancy is flying! Gotta go - DD is up!

[Quartercentury]

I'm glad to hear that people's doctors are okay with caffiene... I haven't been drinking too much of it, but I tend to feel a little bit guilty when I do. I have needed it to jumpstart me into action today... we had a long weekend here, and this morning I finally made it back to the pool (first time since getting pregnant!), and am having "What is it I do here again?" thoughts at work. Snore.

I forgot to point out that my ultrasound picture was done at 12 weeks 5 days, and based on the baby's size, they changed my due date to the 21st!

[emermel]

We leave this afternoon to go house hunting. We're going to have DD come off the plane wearing her "I'm going to be a big sister shirt" so that the grandparents (who are picking us up) will see it, hopefully, before they see me (because they will notice the difference in me).

So far my mom and sisters know. We'll tell my grandmother tomorrow.

I'm pretty anxious about the trip, especially since DD is in a foul mood this morning and it's a 3.5 hour flight :eek:

[Pamela]

I have a lot of catching up to do in here! I haven't really been out of bed much lately except to go to the bathroom. Still having contractions round the clock. Some days are better than others, but yesterday was especially bad and they just wouldn't quit.

But my big ultrasound is tomorrow and I am so excited about that! I phoned to see if I need to have a full bladder or anything (and thank goodness I don't!), but they said to bring a videotape! So I'll have a video of my baby! I didn't know they did that and I'm really glad I phoned. On one hand it will be really nice to get out of the house for a change, but on the other hand getting up and moving around makes things worse. But we're really excited.

And my awesome sweet hubby has hooked me up with a laptop and wireless internet (wheeee!)!! So now I can hang out here and pass the time better. And hello online shopping here I come!

marathongirl, your belly is so cute! I hope mine will look like that!

Lili, I wear low-rise bikini undies, so they're very low on my belly and I'm hoping to grow above them. No problems so far.

Quartercentury, swimming in a pool sounds so nice!

MichelleRenee, hope you feel better soon! I'm sorry about your grandpa.

Taterbaby, isn't Mother's Day sometime around may 12th? What a great mother's day treat to have an ultrasound!

lawgirl and maplekitty, great belly pics!

emermel, cute way to tell the grandparents!

QOTD, hairdye/nails, I don't do either.

[lawgirl4]

ugh. I am seriously sick today. michellerenee, I can empathize! I hope you're feeling better! Yesterday I developed a terrible sore throat/nasal congestion thing that has not gone away. Let's just say that sleep and I were not good buddies last night. :(

My dr said that I could take Regular Sudafed or Chlor Trimeton, but I'm going to try to stick it out and not take anything. I'm giving my throat an occasional spritz of Chloraseptic spray (which she ok'd) and it helps alot. Being sick and pg sucks!!! I'm sure I got it either at my nephew's 3 yr old bday party on saturday, or from some of my ILs friends on sunday (who were coughing and sneezing. ick).

***********************************

emermel, I hope that the trip goes smoothly! I love the way you'll be telling the g-parents about baby #2!

QC - I don't drink much caffeine - maybe 1 cup of black tea twice a week, and green tea maybe 4 times a week. But I think it seems clear that it's okay in moderation.

[Nigellas]

Hey everyone! I'm back from Mexico - We had a blast. We rented a car and drove around the Yucatan and saw a lot of cool things. I’m so glad we were able to have the time together before the baby comes :) I definitely think I popped while there- There is absolutely no getting into my regular work clothes anymore. Woah. Too many Enchiladas, maybe? hehe.

I've been trying to catch up with you all from the last 10 days - That's so cool many of you are feeling movement already!

Random question: Lately my lower abdomen (maybe my uterus) feels tight, like I've been laughing really hard. Anyone else? Is this normal?

I've got another Apt Thursday, April 20th

[Lily]

Thank you Michelle for taking my place as co-threadmistress. I really appreciate it. :) Thank you also to maplekitty for volunteering as well. You guys are great.

maplekitty - Thank you for the advice. I never could get used to thongs, I wear bikini cut.

marathongirl - Thank you. I'll just go up a size too. I can't believe we're that far along either. Seems like just yesterday we were all anxiety waiting for our first appt. :)

quatercentury - Swimming does sound really nice right about now. Glad to know that I'm not the only one who has those kind of thoughts at work some days.

emermel - Good luck house hunting.

Pamela - Thanks for the advice. I wear just regular bikini cut, but think I need to move up a size because the elastic is getting a little tight. Sorry to hear about the contractions. I was just wondering for future reference what do they feel like? Is it like an intense cramp? Have a good u/s tomorrow. You're lucky that you get to video tape it. I'm not able to.

lawgirl - Hope you feel better soon.

Nothing new to report on my end. It's nice and sunny today so I think I'll soak up some sunshine this afternoon.

[pickle]

Hi all...

I'm super bored at work today, and I've been toying with the baby registries online. Much more fun. ;) And I'm wearing maternity pants for the first time. Ah--feels so much better! I ordered a ton of stuff from Gap online and it all arrived last night. There's a code for 10% and free shipping (YAYFJUNE) and I think everything I got was already on sale. (Do you like my justification? Can you tell I used this same line of reasoning on J?) Just thought I'd pass that along if anyone else is as tired of being pinched in the waist as I was.

QOTD- So far I'm still able to wear my regular undies. I usually wear low rise styles, so that could be why they are still comfy.

Nigellas, sounds like a wonderful trip! I've found that occaisonally I'll get a tightening like that, but usually it's after I've laughed or coughed--like it takes a minute to go back to normal.

Feel better soon, MichelleRenee and lawgirl!!

Good luck tomorrow at your ultrasound, Pamela!

emmermel- Have fun househunting and telling the grandparents. Hope you have a safe trip.

Mmm, swimming sounds great QC! It always relaxes me.

[maplekitty]

Random question: Lately my lower abdomen (maybe my uterus) feels tight, like I've been laughing really hard. Anyone else? Is this normal?



Yes, I've been feeling like my uterus "hurts" these days, and I try to explain to DH but all I can really explain is that it "hurts". Kinda feels tight, sore, not really cramps, just more that I'm aware that it's there now.

[Jenzen01]

Just a quick post ... no time for SOs ...

I've been home with Gabe since Friday afternoon because he has a good case of the flu. I am so tired of cleaning up vomit and diarrhea! He was soooooo sick yesterday, so I took him in, but there's nothing we can do for him ... he just have to get over this virus by himself.

He's a little better today. DH and I are splitting the work day, so I'm only in the office this afternoon, which means I have to make good use of my time.

I'll talk to you all when I can.

Jen

[Pamela]

Lily, the contractions feel kind of like cramps, except that my uterus is Much larger and higher now. It gets really really hard and kind of scrunches up, it actually lifts up and out a bit, and it hurts when I have a strong one. If I put my hand on my stomach I can totally feel it scrunching and moving and getting super hard, and I can even see it if I lift my shirt and look. There's definately no mistaking them for something else.

Pickle, thanks for that Gap coupon code!! I am definately going to have to do some online shopping this week!

[TaterBaby]

I think I am going to be one of those people that has morning sickness the whole time. :mad: I thought it had subsided a week or so ago, but then today - WHAM. I haven't thrown up that much in years. I'm hoping it was just something I ate and is going to be a one time thing, but I am not going around telling people that my m/s is gone anymore!

I don't think this has been discussed yet...
Have you thought about birth control after the baby arrives? I know, scary thought! ;)

[octoberkate]

Hey - random late September06 mommy lurker popping in. I forgot who asked, but re: maternity panties - Old Navy makes some that are great. Last time I bought larger panties in a lower bikini cut (I'm normally a high cut or thong but still on my waist person) and the ON maternity bikinis.... I love the ON panties. They just seem to fit better - maybe because the top is a little scooped so it always stays below the belly? If you're putting in an ON order for something else, you might want to throw a pack in, just to try, I don't think they're very expensive.

[maplekitty]

threadmistress - can you please change my OB appnt from May 15th to the 11th

thanks

[marathongirl]

ericka - I hope you don't mind me saying so here, but I wanted to offer you my heartfelt sympathies on the anniversary of your daughter's death. I noticed the date in your signature. I'm so sorry you had to suffer a loss like that.

[Ericka_Jarett]

Thanks so much Sue. It was an emotional day for me more so yesterday than today actually. Hard to believe that today I should have a 1 yr old. Time sure does fly. I am enjoying the good and bad of this pregnancy as much as I can.

[dzmattie]

Erika - I also wanted to send you my thoughts and prayers - I don't know exactly what to say except I am thinking of you today. Take care of yourself.

[dzmattie]

Quick Funny Story -

My mom was here today and asking my DS (27 months) if mama was going to have a baby boy or a baby girl. He proudly announced "TWINS" - "a baby brother AND a baby sister" - my mom thought this was quite funny and said "where did you learn that" - he said "Mimi - mama have twins like Dora the Splorer" - he obviously said it in a very cute 2 year old voice too. (He clearly watches too much Dora!!)

I thought you all might think that this was funny - and no - I am not having twins!! :)

[Sua]

Ericka - Thinking of you also and wishing you comfort.

[kenswife]

Ericka - Like the others, I don't think there is anything I could possibly say except that I hope the day went well yesterday and that your second little one is keeping you strong.

__________________________________________________ _______

I had my doctor's appt. today. Well, actually the doctor was running behind so I did all the blood pressure, pee-in-a-cup, weight, etc. as normal and I'm going back to see the doctor in 2 weeks. Everything looked good and the baby's heartbeat is soooooooooo strong! Even the nurse was amazed that #1: She could hear the heartbeat without even searching for it and #2: it was one of the strongest heartbeats she has ever heard for such a little one!

It's amazing to think there's a little life in there (and yes, I'm still amazed my 3rd time around).

My next appointment is May 2nd and my BIG U/S is scheduled for May 5th!!!

I can NOT believe I'm so close to finding out the baby's gender. I just am totally struck by how fast this pregnancy is going! I think it's b/c I've been so busy (2 kids, school, work, kids' activities, etc). I'm sure the next two weeks will drag though since I'm sooooo looking forward to the u/s!

Wow, having a baby is such an awesome experience!

[jeant]

This will be a fly-by post ... sorry about that.

I just wanted to let all of you know I'm going to New York to be on the Today show on Thursday morning!! Tentative time is 8:09am, and I'll be talking about the book. I am so excited -- I never dreamed I'd get to do this. I don't know if Katie or Matt or neither will interview me -- we'll see.

[Michelle]

I had my appointment yesterday and we heard the heartbeat again, loud and clear! :) We kept hearing the baby kick, which was really fun. I think this baby is going to keep it's mommy up at night once it gets a little bigger! :)

I have to go in for my 1 hour test in a couple of weeks. I'm dreading that! I hope I pass, but I have a gut feeling that I won't because there are a lot of diabetics in my family. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I pass though. Isn't it too early to have this test? I thought it was done in week 20 or so? They have me going in at 16. Just curious! :)

- - - - - - - - - - -

Kenswife - How exciting that your big ultrasound is coming up in a couple of weeks! I can only imagine how excited you are! :)

Dzmattie - That was the cutest story about your son! It definitely made me smile!

Taterbaby - Eeek! I have not even thought about BC after baby. It's nice not to have to worry about it now though!

[marathongirl]

jeant - wow, the Today show!!! That's big time stuff! Congrats! I'll have to watch on Thursday.

Michelle - with DD, I had my GTT at 28 weeks.

dzmattie - so cute about your son!

Tater - we used sheer exhaustion for BC right after DD. :D I BF'ed her for almost 18 months and didn't get AF back until 13 months PP, so while BF'ing does not garauntee you won't get PG, it worked for us. After that, we just used condoms but obviously got a little careless one night since #2 was a very happy surprise about a year sooner than we expected. Probably TMI - sorry!

Glad to hear everyone is having good appts! I'm excited to find out what you're all having!

[Nigellas]

jeant - that's awesome! Good luck!
:)

[Michelle]

JeanT - Wow! Congrats on the Today Show! I'll DVR this interview too! :) How exciting!

[bunnybeth]

Just a fly-by post for me, I've been skimming over the thread, but there was really too much to catch up on. I've been out sick from work the last couple of days. On Monday, I wasn't keeping anything down- food, or even water. Luckily my tummy was behaving itself more yesterday, so I didn't have to go to the hospital for an IV. I spent most of yesterday resting, sleeping, drinking raspberry tea, and eating easy foods. I had originally sent DH to the store for some Sudafed, but he came back with Sudafed PE, which is a completely different drug, so I didn't want to take it. Sudafed is now sold only at the pharmacy counter in Illinois, and somehow DH didn't know that. :rolleyes: So, I sucked it up and dealt with everything with just a few lozenges for my sore throat. I'm feeling much better today, but will be making sure I get to bed early.

[Jenzen01]

jeant - That is soooo cool! I'll probably be at home again tomorrow morning with my little sick boy, so I'll try to catch it. Awesome! Congrats on the book!

bunnybeth - My sympathies on the stomach bug. I'm seriously hoping I don't catch this from Gabe, because he had it bad. We're on Day 6, and he finally ate lunch today.

Two things I never thought I'd need as a mom: plastic diaper pants and a homemade popsicle maker. The plastic pants would have been nice with all this runny diarrhea, and the dr. recommended making popsicles out of the Pedialyte, because Gabe won't drink the stuff. Oh, I could write a book on the stuff I've been learning lately. No one really tells you this stuff ...

Jen

[lawgirl4]

bunnybeth - I took some Sudafed last night and it *really* helped - got rid of some of the congestion so that I could sleep.

jeant - good luck!!! my best friend and my MIL were both on Today and it was very exciting for them - have fun!

dzmattie - what a totally adorable story :)

kenswife - glad to hear your appt went well!

ericka - hugs and warm thoughts for you.

******************************

well, I think my cold is mostly gone - I still have some crazy congestion but thankfully my throat seems to be all better. I was so miserable last night that I was just lying in bed crying. It sucks to be sick while pg!!

yippee, tomorrow is 15 weeks! so exciting :)

[Lily]

pickle – Thank you for the Gap online code.

Jenzen01 – I hope that your DS is feeling better.

Pamela – Thank you for sharing your experience. It sounds kind of scary, but you’re handling it so well. I really hope they subside soon.

TaterBaby – Sorry to hear about your morning sickness. I got sick on Sunday for the first time in like 3 weeks, it was the weirdest thing. Although I think my body was just going through major changes since I felt yucky that whole day. I’m definitely going back on the pill after the baby comes. I need to ask my OB/GYN how/if that will affect breastfeeding.

Octoberkate – Thank you for posting the info. about the Old Navy. It sounds exactly like what I’m looking for.

Ericka – I’m thinking of you too.

Jeant – Congratulations! I love the Today show. I’ll see you tomorrow morning. :)

bunnybeth – I hope that you’re feeling better.

lawgirl – I can only imagine your discomfort. Sleeping is uncomfortable enough these days without having to worry about being able to breath. I’m glad to hear that you’re feeling a little better though. Hang in there.

Just bumping us up from the 2nd page. CC must have been busy today.

[Quartercentury]

Sorry to hear so many of you have had colds and been sick. Not what we need right now!

I'm off to buy a long sweater-coat for the fall from the Gap - thanks for the code, pickle!

Jenzen01, we had a homemade popsicle contraption when I was growing up - I loved it!! I actually wonder if my mom still has it... Maybe I can use it for breastmilk popsicles when the baby is teething...

jeant, good luck on the Today show!!

We haven't even thought about BC for after the baby. We used condoms and charted for two years before TTC, and may go back to that. But we haven't talked about it. I am hesitant to use hormones again.

I hit the second trimester this week! Ya-hoo!!! I have been telling people at work who didn't already know, and bought a little t-shirt with a reindeer on it for the kid to wear at Christmas time. The idea that we're going to have a tiny baby at Christmas still throws me for a loop!

My other exciting (:rolleyes: ) development this week was that the itchy bumps I developed on the soles of my feet and recently on the palm of one hand while we were in Thailand are not some tropical disease, but eczema. Fabulous.

Because our families live so far away, they are starting to want to make plans for coming to visit when the baby is born. My mom has suggested that she could come to stay for three weeks, but I am wondering if that might get to be too much... Or maybe the time will fly by and we will be grateful for the extra help... Any ideas from those of you who have done this before??

[marathongirl]

Good morning!

Sorry so many of you are sick! That's definitely no fun when you're PG or with a newborn!

jenzen - I hope your son feels better! DD had a stomach virus in January and it was terrible. I'm wondering if she has a small bug again b/c she had massive diarreah yesterday. We went through many outfits :rolleyes: .

qc - having my mom around after Claire was born was invaluable to me!! She stayed a few nights each week for about 3-4 weeks. I have the luxury that they live about 45 mins away and my mom is retired, so she could come and go. I seriously would have gone crazy without her. She especially helped with BF'ing b/c she had been an LLL leader for years.

Hope everyone is doing well!

[Quartercentury]

There's a code for 10% and free shipping (YAYFJUNE)
This code works if you spend $85 or more, at which point it gets automatically added, so you don't even have to bother with entering the code!

So I was up to $84.95 with things I wanted and now will end up with a bright blue pair of underwear, too! At least shipping is free, so if the stuff doesn't work out, I can take it back and not be out any of the cost.

marathongirl, did your DH ever get tired of having your mom hanging around?

[marathongirl]

qc - DH got a little annoyed that my mom was here. Maybe 'annoyed' isn't the right word, but more felt guilty that we needed the extra help and that he couldn't do it all. But we had other issues going on at the same time, so I'm sure that also factored into it. This time around, I refuse to feel guilty asking for help if I need it and I certainly won't be turning offers to help down.

[Ericka_Jarett]

Thanks for all the thoughts everyone, they are appreciated. I am doing well.

Michelle - regarding the GTT. It's usually done around 28 weeks, I also had it done early with Rebekah, I think I was about 20 weeks. This pregnancy they didn't even bother with the 1 hour, I took the 3 hour, since she said I would fail the 1 hour and have to take the 3 anyway. Have they been finding eleveated sugar in your urine at visits? I was showing sugar in mine during appts so I took the 3 hour at about 10 weeks.

QC - from what I understand most people as long as they get along with their parents, appreciate the help they get those first few weeks. You may want to be up front about if she will help care for the baby or just to help with the housework and meals.

[Sua]

Ericka - Glad to hear you are doing well. You are very strong.

marathongirl - How awesome to have your mom's help! A LLL leader in the family, what an awesome resource for a new mom!

QC - My mom stayed with us for just about two weeks after my son was born. I was so glad to have her here. It did help a little that she is a pediatric NP, but her help around the house was the most helpful to me. The worst thing was she left during the week when I was in a huge crying jag (baby blues?), so I just couldnt say goodbye to her without falling apart. (Of course, I cried when the garbage man asked how I was doing that week also).

Jeant - Just saw the Today show interview. You were great! (Even when the other interviewee kept butting in!) Katie made such a great plug for the book at the end too. Congrats!

lawgirl - Glad your throat is feeling better!

Lily - Your doctor will probably give you the "mini-pill" which is meant to have minimal effect on your breastmilk supply. I bet some others know more about it than I, since I didnt take it!

Jenzen - Hope your son is feeling better! A homemade popsicle maker is a great suggestion!

Bunnybeth - Hope you are continuing to feel better!

I *may* be over the worst of my m/s! Yay! I've only been sick a couple of times in the past couple of weeks. :D I have been getting the headaches like a few of you have mentioned. Most of the time a little diet coke works, but I've taken a few tylenol also.

I think we will just stick to charting for bc after this baby. Def. not any hormonal b/c for us. We havent had the easiest time getting pregnant with this baby or our son. So, an "oops" pregnancy sounds so exciting; no RE visits, medicated cycles, etc. (Of course, I'd love it to happen after about three years or so after this one arrives :p )

Take care all! :D

[Michelle]

JeanT - Fantastic job on the Today Show interview! :) I agree with Sua, too bad the other woman kept butting in. You could tell that Katie was more interested in interviewing you. Great job! I'm going to pick up your book one of these days! :)

Ericka - Yeah, I'm still a little baffled by the fact that I am getting that test done now. I'll have to check my lab results to see if there was sugar in my urine test. Does a diabetic family history play into this maybe? Oh well, at least I'll be getting it over with!

Sua - Yay for being over the m/s!

[Ericka_Jarett]

sometimes family history plays a part of it. For mine was just the sugar at the appts. My grandparents got diabetes late in life.

[lawgirl4]

yay, I love thursdays! 15 weeks today! And to celebrate I am wearing my super-favorite Old Navy Gauchos, and an Old Navy maternity t-shirt under a regular cardigan! I actually can pass for pregnant rather than chubby today, I think! ;)

threadmistress, please use the collage for my photo

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/preggo/15wkcollage.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/preggo/IMG_3488.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/preggo/IMG_3493.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/preggo/IMG_3494.jpg

*************************************

My cold is mostly out of the way now... but the sinus congestion last night was terrible again. DH gave me the most amazing head/neck massage and that helped quite a bit. Thankfully I was able to fall asleep despite the discomfort and when I woke up, I felt much better. I hope everyone else who has been under the weather is feeling better!

qc - my mom is going to come for about 6 weeks when the baby is born. she'll probably sleep in our apartment for the first week, but she'll be staying in her own place (either one that we rent for her, or in the adjacent unit in our building, which we are in the process of buying right now). I think it will be too close for comfort to have her in our own apartment 24/7 beyond the first week - so this arrangement will work out nicely for all of us. she's very experienced with babies and I know that her help will be invaluable in those early weeks. But I definitely want some "alone time" with DH and the baby as well. A good balance is all you need!

ps - I have eczema on my hand too. I think it's aggravated by all the hand-washing I have been doing (germophobe!) and dry air!

ericka - glad to hear you are doing well. :)

birth control - we were charting for about 8 months before TTC and we will probably go back to that. I am not interested in BCP - was on it for 9 years pre-charting/TTC and I believe it does more harm than good. We will likely be trying for #2 when #1 is 12-16 months old, so I don't want to deal with hormonal BC prior to that point for sure.

[Pamela]

So I went in for the big ultrasound yesterday. Man, I have one stubborn uncooperative baby!! She just layed there all scrunched up and would not move! The tech had a hard time getting all the measurements 'cause she was all scrunched up in a funny position. It was pretty funny though, when the tech was looking at her brain we kept seeing her raise her hands up to her face and waving them like she was saying, "Cut it out, I'm napping!" So unfortunately we really didn't get to see much, and I hate to admit it but we were both disappointed 'cause mostly all we saw were blobs, the heart and brain. She just wouldn't move and let us get a good look at anything. And as I'm typing this we are currently having soccer practise :rolleyes:

But everything looks great. 16 weeks is kind of too early for them to get a really good look at everything they wanted to see, so I don't think the tech was too thrilled with that. Heart, brain, kidneys, nasal bone, etc. all look great. The one wierd thing they did see was that she has a two vessel umbilical cord. Normally there's three, one vein and two arteries, but she's only got one artery and one vein. Its pretty uncommon, and sometimes goes along with other congenital defects, but the perinatologist said everything looks great and not to worry. It could result in a smaller baby though. So that plus the frequency of my contractions mean I'm going back for another ultrasound next week and again in six weeks. I think next week I'll drink a whole lot of juice and eat a bunch of chocolate before I go to try and wake this kid up!

Here's my 16 week pic:

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y145/MrsPamela/Baby/16weeks.jpg

And here's the only ultrasound pic we got. It was the best view they got of her too.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y145/MrsPamela/Baby/ultrasound16weeks.jpg

*snicker* My hubby just could not see that this is a profile pic of her head for the longest time! We have the ultrasound on video, but honestly its pretty boring. Hopefully she'll be more cooperative next time.

Ericka, I've also been thinking of you over the past few days. *hugs*

Taterbaby, yikes, I hadn't even given a single thought to BC after baby! That seems like so long away!

[lawgirl4]

pamela - I've heard of a lot of people having the two vessel umbilical cord - I believe there's even a thread on here about it. you might want to poke around and read up on it - I recall that it was pretty reassuring. I can't believe you're feeling the baby move so much already!! that's awesome!

[Ericka_Jarett]

pamela - with Rebekah I had a 2 vessel umbilical cord, didn't know that until just 2 weeks ago at the perinatalogist. They planned your big u/s quite early actually, most are not done until 20 weeks when the baby has a little less space to move around. Plus things are better developed by then.

Thanks for the thoughts

[Bubeleh]

Jeant: I missed your interview. I was waiting around for it, but I had to leave b4 it came on. But Katie did give it a nice intro at the top of the 8am hour. It sounds like it went really well though, congrats!

BC: Haven't really thought about it. I guess go back on the pill since it was what I was on before and we are undecided if we will have another baby or not. That seems like so far away though.

Not much going here. I haven't felt any movement yet. When I get home from the bym at night I actually look pg, but in the morning its back to looking chubby. I'm sure one of these days the belly will stay. I'm going outlet shopping in 2 weeks so hopefully my pre-preg pants will hold out until then.

[jbemommy]

QCMy mom was here for 2 weeks after DD was born and it was awesome. She did the cooking and cleaning and was a big help. My in-laws came when DD was 1 month old and stayed for 3 weeks and that was another story altogether!! DH's mom was totally unhelpful around the house, her idea of helping was taking the baby while I cooked, etc. I was in tears many times about it--I was BF'ing DD plus pumping to get a freezer supply for when I went back to work, and I just couldn't handle having two extra people to cook for. I think you just need to know how the people are who are coming to visit--will they help you or make more work. I'll be much more assertive this time! (although DH's mother has since passed away so there won't be that issue).
Lawgirl Love your belly! That's about what mine looks like!

[MidwesternGal]

Pamela--I'm sorry the little one was "sleeping" while you were doing the u/s! Maybe next time DC will be more cooperative.

Lawgirl--You look great! I wish I had that rounded look!

JeanT--I missed your interview, but it sounds like it went well!!

As to BC, we plan to breastfeed for 3-6 months or so, so it will be condoms until we have to make a decision. I'll probably go back on the pill, actually, because we don't need another "oopsie" anytime soon! :D

So a small, non-pregnancy vent here. I had to ask for 2 Saturdays off in May. I only work for 2.5 hours, from 5 am until 8:30 am. I want the Saturday we're moving off, because I'll be exhausted and I don't want to be all smelly from the grease at the bakery all day, moving in the warm sun. I also had to ask for the 20th off because my sister is graduating from college that day. My boss (the one who will have to fill in for me) acted like it was the end of the world. Um, I *only* ask for time off if I have to (ie, weddings OOT, grandma's funeral--and that was only 1 day!!, etc.), and I've never taken a sick day or even gone home early. I was pretty ticked off. I've worked there almost 2 years, and haven't taken more than maybe say, 7 days off the whole time. Not too many people would work the hours I do, for the pay I do, and if they wanted someone FT, then they need to either offer me FT or else deal with a few days off here and there.

Okay, thanks for letting me vent a bit! I feel better! Now, off to my writing job! (Which is at home, so I can take off whenever I need to! ;) )

[Jenzen01]

Quick post again ... still dealing with the stomach flu at our house ... except now DH and I have it.

Jeant - I caught your interview this morning! Very interesting stuff. I'd be interested in reading your book, and then maybe I'd have more to comment on as I like social theories. One question: It was stated that Generation Me begins with anyone born after 1970 ... isn't that an awfully long generation? What is the standard number of years for a generation?

[hmdelf]

:) Username: Hmdelf
Me: Heather, 33
uDH: Ed, 29
Married: 10/11/2003
TTC: 12/25/05
BFP: 2/12/06
EDD: 10/18/06
Gender Prediction:Chinese gender says boy but otherwise we are waiting
Any other children:DS, 12/25/2004

[maplekitty]

Welcome hmdelf!! :)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ok, so I havn't updated in so long, sorry guys, I've been readign along. Not much really to say. I went for my Triple Screen test today and also to be tested for anemia.
I also had a chiropractor appnt today - omg, felt so good to be adjusted! :D

I've been getting really hunry at night these past few days. I eat dinner around 5 or 6pm , and then by 10pm I'm starved - even though I've eaten a few snacks in between.

I sent my DH out for my first midnight pregnancy food craving, I was so hungry one night coming home late from a hockey game. DH asked what I wanted, thinking something from the kitchen - nope, at that very moment I wanted A&W poutine. And he went and got it for me too, at 11pm at night! haha!

[Michelle]

Welcome and Congrats Hmdelf! :)

[Pamela]

Had another OB appointment today, and I'll be going weekly for the next few weeks. It was fine, but really uncomfortable sitting around waiting. I can not believe how many kicks I am getting today! Especially after that little naptime stunt she pulled yesterday :rolleyes:

lawgirl, I'm not worried at all about the two vessel cord, its really unlikely that it would cause any problems. Its just kind of an interesting thing.

ErickaJarett, 16 weeks is awfully early for the big ultrasound, but my OB really wanted me to get in and see the perinatologist. I don't think the u/s tech was too impressed though, she kept saying that things looked good but they're awfully small still. Oh well, I'll be back at 17 weeks and 22 weeks.

Welcomd hmdelf!

[MichelleRenee]

I'm back and I feel much better. I felt HORRIBLE for about 2 days though. Achy and weak and tired... plus a runny nose and a cough. My nose is so sore from using so many tissues! I still have a runny nose and cough, but I am thankful to not FEEL sick.

It is no fun to be sick and pregnant!

Today has been a day full of buying new clothes and sorting/storing my old summer clothes. I am bummed about some of the cute outfits I won't be able to wear this summer. I am excited about the new cute ones though!!

13 weeks tomorrow!

[Ericka_Jarett]

pamela - I had an us at my 1st peri appt, but it wasn't the big one, it was just a normal u/s my big one (level 2) is at 20 weeks with them though. I have 2 u/s before than though with the peri. Guess I was just surprised they would try to even get all the anatomy before 20 weeks, my u/s was just the basics, head measurements and such. Hopefully next time baby cooperates.

[Nigellas]

Welcome Heather!

Michelle- So glad you are feeling better. :)

Maple - I just have to know- What is "A&W poutine"? I'm guessing some type of food but in highschool that word was nasty-slang for vagina. haha! :D

-----------------
I had another apt today - My first without an ultrasound (booo!) but we did get to to hear the kid's heartbeat and the little kicks through the doppler. Totally awesome! :)

I've got another apt scheduled for May 8th and my "big" US on June 1st.

[Ericka_Jarett]

This may have been asked before, but since so many of us are getting close to when we can find out the sex. Here is a QOTD

QOTD - Are you planning on finding out the sex before you deliver or wait to be surprised? So far we have 1 surprise, 2 girls and 1 boy.

Me - we will be finding out, I can't wait.

[Pamela]

Ericka, even though I'm just 16 weeks and its awfully early, it was a level 2 u/s. It seemed to take a long time and they measured the femur and humerus, looked at the heart and kidneys and spend a long time looking at the brain and umbilical cord too and measured everything. It might be a little bit better next week, but probably not much. Should be much easier for them to see and measure everything at 22 weeks though.

MichelleRenee, glad you're feeling better! I hate it when my nose gets all raw and sore from constant blowing/wiping. I'm stuffy a lot too. I am also very sad about all of my cute summer clothes I won't be able to wear this year and all of the cute ones I won't be buying. But we'll be able to make up for it by buying cute baby clothes!

[hmdelf]

QOTDI will be surprised with this one as I was with number 1. I thought boy all along with 1st one and I was right (BTW-everyone else swore it was a girl). This time I think boy so far as well.


I'm sure this has already been discussed, but I couldn't find a post. How did everyone tell people they were PG? Any interesting ideas?
We just told his parents on easter and we are telling my family this weekend. I know you are all probably thinking we are crazy because we waited so long, but DH is working a ton of OT and we haven't been together to tell people. My mother is going to kill me for waiting until I was 14+ week PG. Oh well!

[Quartercentury]

Welcome, hmdelf! You got your BFP the same day as me!

QOTD: for now, we're planning to be surprised. But I do reserve the right to change my mind before the 20 week ultrasound when we could find out if we wanted.

I had a fast food craving last night, too! The pharmacy where I picked up some cream for my eczema is on a pedestrianized street with a KFC, a Burger King, and a McDonalds. I had perfectly healthy food in the fridge at home, but somehow the smell of fries overwhelmed me and I ended up eating a fast food chicken burger for dinner last night! I haven't eaten fast food in *years.* I was worrything that someone I know would see me standing in the line at Burger King...

[marathongirl]

Welcome and congrats hmdelf! I could not keep a secret as long as you did!

QOTD - nope, we're going to wait until October to find out the sex. I'm still thinking boy, but I don't have the super-strong sense I did about DD. We'll see.

Not much else going on with me. Hope everyone has a good weekend!

[Mrs-Mac]

Welcome, hmdelf!

Pamela Glad everything went well at the ultrasound. Hope you are able to see more at the next one!

MichelleRenee & lawgirl4 So glad you are both feeling better. Being sick when pregnant must be horrible.

Quartercentury Too funny about Burger King. Crazy what these hormones will make us do, huh? The one thing I've been craving is popsicles-I can't get enough of them!

QOTD - BC I was charting and we used condoms for about two years, so we will probably go back to that.

QOTD - Finding out Nope, we won't be finding out. It will be a surprise. I can't really say I have any feelings really.

Not too much else going on here. I am wearing maternity pants for the first time. I got jeans last night from Old Navy (for only $20!). I still have a couple pairs of normal pants I can fit into, but the selection is getting limited!! I plan to go shopping this weekend for somemore stuff. Hopefully I'll be able to find some stuff.

Have a great weekend!

[kenswife]

hmdelf - Don't feel bad about having not told people yet. I still haven't told my mom and my in-laws and I'll be 16 weeks pregnant tomorrow! Haha. Time has just kind of slipped away and we've actually enjoyed not hearing the opinionated comments. I think my mom's going to kill me for waiting 16wk+. I figure I'll just tell my mom after I know the gender..haha...get it all done in one :D

We will be telling my in-laws probably this weekend though.

QOTD - I'm too impatient and too much of a planner to be suprised. Besides, we need to be able to organize the rooms we have according to what gender this baby is and I'd rather get that out of the way before the baby comes. I can't believe that I'm going to be finding out in just 2 weeks!!!! Time is flying!

[Bubeleh]

Welcome Heather, its never too late to join!

QOTD - We are definitly going to find out if the baby cooperates. Infact we should know in 10 Days :eek:

[Michelle]

QOTD - Yes, we are definitely going to find out too. I have to know otherwise I would go crazy! I'm really wish I could be somebody who could wait, because it would be amazing to hear "It's a....." at birth. I wish I could do it!

- - - - - - -

I had my appt earlier this week. It went well. We heard the heartbeat again loud and clear! It's amazing. I talked to the dr. about my hips when I lay down and she told me that it's totally normal. Basically she said that it's just my muscles starting to relax as my body changes so they are not as tight as they normally are.

I also talked to her about the headaches and she said the same thing everybody else has heard. If I need caffiene don't be afraid to drink it, just no more than 2 servings. If I do have it, try to do it earlier in the day because it takes pregnant bodies longer to metabolize which means I could be up all night if I have it too late. At least it's good to know in case I get more headaches because they are so hard to tolerate!

I have to admit, I had an emotional scare the other day. I was just thinking about how I'm spending so much time trying to learn about pregnancy but I need to start learning about being a mom! Eeeek!!! The more I think of it, the more scared I am! So much to learn! :eek:

I hope that everybody has a great weekend!

[hmdelf]

I was worrything that someone I know would see me standing in the line at Burger King...
That is so funny. I think the same thing except i was in a McDonalds drivethru!!

Michelle-glad to hear the doctor put you at ease! there is so much too worry about!

Kenswife-OK-I feel better! I will be 16 weeks when I tell my mom too if I don't get to see her this weekend. BTW- Did you use the same username on WC? If so I remember your great wedding details!


Jenzen- Are we living a double life? LOL. I got married 10/11/03 ; first son 12/25/04; next due date 10/18/06. Too funny. We are on the same timeline. hehehe
Thank you to everyone for a warm welcome! I am sure this is going to be a great forum for me!
Everyon ehave a great weekend!!!

[kenswife]

BTW- Did you use the same username on WC? If so I remember your great wedding details!


hmdelf - Yup! I was actually "kensbride" at WC. It's so funny to see people around here whose weddings I read about being planned years ago 3 or 4 years ago even!

Michelle - One thing I've learned with having 2 already is that no book, video, friend, family member, etc can every *teach* you how to be a mom. I read tons of books with my first and most of it was useless. Becoming a mom seems to be the best way to learn about being a mom! It comes a lot more naturally than you think too!!!! Hmm....guess I should tell myself this stuff when I start freaking out about having 3!!!! :eek:

Have a great weekend girls! I'm going maternity clothes shopping - wahoo - and getting ready for finals next week. I still can't believe I decided to get my masters...so...much....work!

[Sua]

Welcome Hmdelf!

Michelle - I remember thinking that too towards the end of my pregnancy with my son. I was picking up my "Week by Week" book and then quickly put it away and started reading Sears' "Baby Book" instead. It is a great resource to look things up in a hurry once the baby comes, but I liked having a little time to read through it at a more leisurely pace before baby.

QOTD - We'll be finding out the sex at our big u/s. I imagine we'll set the appt at my next ob visit. I had such strong "boy" intuition with my son, but this time, no dreams yet or anything.

[maplekitty]

here's my latest picture - oops, a little blurry this week :p

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid204/pc54557f7eb59ea46a21ff5edd09d0dcd/ef5514a5.jpg

[Jenzen01]

Hi all,

We're visiting my parents, so it's been a rather relaxing day ... except for the fact that I have a fairly queasy stomach. Not sure if it's the flu or just pregnancy stuff, but I feel icky. My sympathies to all of you who had morning sickness, because this just feels nasty.

Other than that, not much is going on.

Just wanted to drop off my 13-week belly shot. This was taken on Easter after eating a good portion of ham. :)

hmdelf - That is too funny! Maybe we're twins. :)

http://images.snapfish.com/3468894%3B2%7Ffp33%3A%3Enu%3D3233%3E57%3A%3E4%3B5% 3E232457%3A5%3A65%3A3ot1lsi

And, just for fun, here's a pic of my little guy.

http://images.snapfish.com/3468894%3B2%7Ffp346%3Enu%3D3237%3E%3A%3C4%3E2%3B9% 3EWSNRCG%3D323366%3B457%3B3%3Cnu0mrj

[maplekitty]

jenzen - awwww Gabriel is such a sweety!!

[marathongirl]

jenzen & maplekitty - you guys look great!!!

jenzen - your son is so handsome! Very serious in the picture :) .

[kenswife]

Thought I'd pop in myself with a photo collage. I'm 16 weeks today but the last picture I had was from 15 weeks. I don't think there's been much of a change anyway though :)

http://images.snapfish.com/346894376%7Ffp344%3Enu%3D3237%3E882%3E%3A96%3EWSNR CG%3D32336577%3A2%3A39nu0mrj

I do NOT know why I look so pastey in the last pic. I really am not that white! haha. But then again, it seems I'm a different shade in each one - orange/yellow/white - Haha!

[She-Ra]

JeanT: I saw the today show in the hotel when I was traveling! I wasn't on CC for a few days, so I din't see your post, but thought it might be you once Katie mentioned the book! How very cool that it WAS you!

Not much going on here. My son was sick yesterday & we had a few house showings so I had to work around naps & such, so my stress levels are cureently high. He is napping right now, so maybe I should!


Threadmaster: MY NEXT APPOINTMENT IS APRIL 26!

[Jenzen01]

maplekitty and marathongirl - Thanks for the compliments on Gabe! He's our little sweetie. He's usually pretty full of smiles, but I caught him at a more serious moment.

kenswife - lookin' good! That's definitely a baby belly. :)

As for me, I definitely have the flu. Let's just say the past 12 hours haven't been very glamorous. Thank goodness my mom has been helping ... I just hope I don't give her this bug. And, of course, I sit here and worry about the baby. I'm trying my best to keep hydrated for the baby's sake ...

Talk to you all later.

Jen

[Lily]

qc - All of my family lives out of state so we're starting to plan now on who is coming and when. So far, my mom and sister would like to be present for the birth and then stay for one week. I'm not sure when DH's parents will be coming, but they'll probably only stay for 3-4 days. My Dad is planning on coming shortly after the birth to see the baby, but will probably just stay 2-3 days. I know for sure that everyone will be really helpful with the cleaning and cooking. Well, maybe with the exception of my Dad but he'll most likely want to order us all take out every day. :) On a side note though, they'll all be staying at a hotel that's about 5 min. away. I think that it'll be important for everyone involved to have that down/alone time at night and in the morning before people arrive again.

jeant - Great job on the Today Show interview. My Mom also saw it and I got to tell her that we were in the same PG. group online. :)

Sua - I've heard about the mini pill too, but I'll check with my Ob/Gyn to get more info. I think that I want to wait for 1-2 months after giving birth before starting it. Hopefully that'll give my body a chance to heal and hormone levels regulate. I'm glad that your m/s is getting better.

Michelle - I actually asked my nurse if I could take the GTT now rather than wait since there is a history of diabetes in my family. I got it done after my last appt. and passed which was a huge relief. And like you said at least you don't have to do it again later on.

pamela - Cute u/s pic. That's so cool that you can already feel her kick. I'm still not feeling any real movement.

Jenzen - Sorry to hear that you and DH caught the stomach flu. I hope that you feel better soon. Your son is so adorable.

hmdelf - Welcome and congratulations.

maplekitty - Cute belly picture. I was actually wondering what A&W poutine was too.

Ericka - We're definitely going to find out. At first we were going to wait, but changed our minds after about the second month. :)

I found out on Thursday that I passed my GTT test and that the triple screen came back negative for Spina Bifida, Down Syndrome, and Trisomy 18. It was such a relief to find out and I'm greatful that my little one is doing so well. I so excited for my u/s tomorrow. Everyone cross your fingers that the baby cooperates we find out if we're having a little girl or boy. I swear it feels like Christmas Eve, and I get to open my presents tomorrow. :)

On a different topic, I've discovered this place near my house called Dream Dinners. It's actually a business where you can go and put together 6-12 frozen meals that you take home and can unthaw when you need them. The serving sizes are for about 4 people, and when I went to a demo presentation a couple of weeks ago I was hooked. DH and I are going to go back a few weeks before the baby is due and buy 6-12 meals. With family coming into town, I can't think of a less stressful way of feeding everyone. Especially since DH will have KP duty for the first week or so and doesn't like to cook. :) If anyone is interested the website is: www.dreamdinners.com. It looks like they have locations in almost every state.

[MidwesternGal]

Welcome hmdelf!

kenswife--looking great! I'm jealous!

Lily--Those DreamDinners sound wonderful--but unforunately, they aren't in my state. :( I am trying to figure out right now how many people I want and when to come help us out. DH will get the week of the birth off (vacation time) but once he goes back, I will definitely want my mom and MIL to stay a few days each to help out (I think). Hopefully they can each help us out by making a few freezer friendly meals!

Well, my oh-so-darling child that is still inutero has decided that my bladder is the perfect place to live!! Ooooh!! This is sooo not good! I all ready had my first unexpected "leak" and it wasn't fun! (At least I was home!) I've been up the last week almost 4x a night! Sheesh! And I've been having a growth spurt in my stomach, although luckily my weight gain has stabilized (whew!).

I also had to give my mom the first (of probably many) "this is my child, not yours" speeches. Apparently my dad had to stop her from buying crib set and bedding w/o consulting me!!! (It's GREAT they want to help out by buying it. . . but um, let me and DH help pick it out!!)

New QOTD:: How and who are you picking as godparents, if you do that?. What kinds of things are you considering? Will the godparents also be the person who gets your children if, God forbid, something happens to you--or will someone else have that title?

For us, we are arguing severely over this question. We don't have a lot of qualified people to ask. For us, godparents and the people who get the children if something happens will probably be different people.

And for whoever asked regarding finding out gender: We originally said we wouldn't. . . . but now that I'm kind of in a shopping mode, I sort of want to know. If we *would* happen to find out, we'd keep it to ourselves, and not tell anyone else.

[Nigellas]

QOTD How and who are you picking as godparents, if you do that? We aren't Catholic so we won't be getting our child baptized, so no god parents needed.
:)


Lily- That dream dinners company looks fabulous - I'd totally be interested, unfortunately they don't really have vegetarian options and both my husband and I are vegsi. poo.

-----

I think this kid likes oranges. I had 5 yesterday and already have had 2 this morning and totally want more... Hehe!

[maplekitty]

Maple - I just have to know- What is "A&W poutine"? I'm guessing some type of food but in highschool that word was nasty-slang for vagina. haha! :D




Hehe....A&W is a fast food chain originated in Vancouver, B.C. and is now found in most Western Canadian cities.
Poutine is a french Canadian dish. It's french fries with mozza cheese (traditionally cheese curd), and then gravy poured ontop to "melt" the cheese. SO GOOD! YUM! Now I want more! :p

[jenniferlynne]

Hi everyone. I haven't posted in forever because we have either been out of town or have had family here. My MIL has been staying for the last few days and will be here a few more, but she, DH and DS are off at gymnastics class, so I have a few minutes to post!

QOTD BC: Seriously, in the first few months, the baby itself is BC enough. Between the soreness and the overwhelming exhaustion, I don't think we DTD more than a few times. I haven't considered BC for after this baby yet.

QOTD Finding out: We will probably find out. I love the idea of waiting till the birth, but I'm just not patient enough. I'm a big planner, too, so I'll need to know. Also, since we only want two kids, this will be our last one, and if it's a boy I'll need some time to adjust to that since I've always wanted a little girl. That sounds terrible when I say it, because I LOVE having a boy and really we'll be happy with either as long as it's healthy, but I know that mentally, I'll have to get used to the fact that I'll never have a daughter. I'd rather do that before the baby's born...

QOTD godparents: We're not Catholic (or really very religious) so we won't be doing this.

Belly shots: I'm loving all of the belly shots you ladies have been posting. I can't believe how much you're starting to show. Those bellies are so cute!

Jenzen: Your son is a cutie! How old is he?
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Update: We had our repeat NT (they couldn't get the measurements last time b/c of my tilted uterus), and all looks well! My MIL got to go with me this time, and she loved it. The baby was moving all over the place and we got some great pictures of it.

Since everything looked so low risk, I'm seriously considering skipping the AFP because of the high rate of false positives. The genetic counselor who discussed the NT results with me said that between the NT and the anatomy ultrasound, they'll catch pretty much everything. The only concern is that last time, the AFP found that I had elevated HCG, which they told me can be linked to certain pregnancy complications like pre-eclampsia, so they just followed me much more closely throughout my pregnancy to check for these problems. My midwife, though, told me last time that they weren't really seeing a link between HCG and complications, so they might even stop following up with these patients. The genetic counselor, however, just told me they still are doing so. I guess I'll ask on Monday when I see the midwife again whether it's worth doing the AFP to check my HCG level.

No one else I've ever talked to has heard of elevated HCG being a problem, so maybe my hospital is just being really careful. Has anyone else heard of this?

Yesterday, we had my son's 2nd birthday party and it was so much fun. We're all still recovering and digging out from under presents (even though we requested no gifts :rolleyes: ) but it was great.

Oops, they're back from gymnastics so my computer time is over! ;)

[dzmattie]

Could someone do me a favor and let me know if you have a "safe meds" list from your docs - can we take milk of magnesia for constipation? I am "pretty" sure my doc said it was ok but since I have never had this issue before I didn't really pay attention and I can't find my list....I checked babycenter.com and it looks ok but thought I would double (triple) check before I take it...sorry for TMI....:o

[Ericka_Jarett]

QOTD godparents. Nope not picking any since we are not Catholic and won't be baptizing either. We will be dedicating the baby soon after birth back to the Lord, but that's it until they are old enough to decide to accept Christ for themselves and get water baptized. If something God forbid happened to us, my mom would have the baby in her care and should something happen that she can't, my brother would most lilkely take care of the baby than.

dz - my list said milk of magnesium is ok. My list has: colace, fibercon, citrucel, metamucil and fiberall also on it.

[Quartercentury]

No one else I've ever talked to has heard of elevated HCG being a problem, so maybe my hospital is just being really careful. Has anyone else heard of this?
One of my LJ friends was found to have slightly lowered levels of AFP and high levels of HCG, which when combined mean a higher risk of Down Syndrome. The HCG levels alone were enough to get her assigned to the high risk category, but I don't know exactly what high levels of HCG are supposed to mean...

I hope everyone had a nice weekend! A friend of mine just bought a Vespa and came to visit on Saturday, but he wouldn't let me ride on it! Stinker.

[marathongirl]

Good morning! Hope everyone had a good weekend!

jenniferlynne - my friend had really high hcg levels and was considered high risk after that. IIRC, they told her it could mean that the placenta was not functioning correctly. But her baby is fine, happy, and healthy and will be turning 1 in 3 weeks :) .

QOTD - right now we have no plans to baptize DD or #2 so no godparents either. My parents will take the kids if something happens to DH and I. If my parents can't, then DH's parents are our 2nd choice.

lily - I also looked at the dream dinners. Yummy, but none in NJ.

All the belly shots look great!

DD and I are off to my parent's tonight since DH is out of town again. Hope everyone is feeling good!

[MichelleRenee]

Here's my latest belly pic: 13w2d.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v498/AngelyWangely/Belly%20Shots/DSC00290.jpg

[hmdelf]

New QOTD:: How and who are you picking as godparents, if you do that?.
We are picking my lil sis and DH cousin for Gp. We know because there was a lot of drama choosing GP's for DS. In the ned we decided on the first two and to have my sis and his cousin as the Gp's on the second child. Neither set of Gp's will care for my children if something happens to my hubby & I. Our best friends are who we are choosing at this point. Our family is a little shakey and our BF's are the ones who model our philosophy of childrearing the most.

[lawgirl4]

hi everyone!

hope you all had a good weekend. My headaches have finally disappeared and sleeping has become much easier. (Though the "girls" have become increasingly sore again so I'm back to sleeping with a bra or tight camisole!). I also think I'm getting better at staying on my left side - this has been a big hurdle for me!

I think I am looking legitimately pregnant now... not just chubby (though my widening hips are not doing too much for my overall look!). My friend gave me 2 bags of maternity clothes on saturday and I spent the weekend washing them, clearing out my closet and dresser, putting away my "no way will I fit into these cute clothes this summer" clothes, and setting up my new maternity wardrobe! exciting!

Busy week for us - my SIL is at the hospital being induced right now! by tonight I will be an aunt to my first neice! And wednesday we are closing on the condo next to ours (we're going to be breaking through the wall to create a baby's room and will then rent out the rest of the new unit until we need all the space - probably not until #2 comes along).

****************************

qotd - I never knew that the institution of "godparents" was so closely dictated by different denominations of Christian religions. I'm Jewish, so we don't add in the religious meaning - it's more like an honorary thing. But whomever we designate in our will will be the legal guardians in the event that becomes necessary. Thus, we'll probably make my brother and sister the honorary godparents, and my parents the legal guardians in our will.

[Jenzen01]

OK, my stomach is a ball of knots. I was just about to leave for my appointment and my dr. office called to reschedule for 1:15 because my dr. is delivering a baby right now. Ugh. I just wanted to get there and hear the heartbeat!

Jen

[Ericka_Jarett]

I have my u/s tomorrow to make sure my cervix is closed nice and tight. Also have my OB appt after the perinatalogist appt.

Well since we finally got the new program running on my computer and hubby figured out why I couldn't upload pics, I can post my first belly shot. Taken just today at 16 weeks. I didn't do any belly pics with Rebekah so since I am showing early this time I figure will start. :)

http://images.snapfish.com/3468%3B3336%7Ffp33%3A%3Enu%3D3278%3E943%3E%3A57%3E WSNRCG%3D32336784%3C37%3A%3Anu0mrj

[Pamela]

QOTD, godparents, not something we'll be doing, nor will we be baptizing or anything.

Maplekitty, your 16 week pic looks great!

Jenzen, great belly pic, and your little guy is adorable!

kenswife, your progression looks great!

Lily, good luck on your u/s today! I hope your baby is more cooperative than mine!

MichelleRenee, great pic!

Ericka, great pic, and I like your shirt!

[TaterBaby]

Here's my latest belly shots...any thoughts as to whether it's a boy or girl?

http://images.snapfish.com/3468%3B3749%7Ffp345%3Enu%3D3233%3E588%3E38%3B%3E23 2458847%3C%3A8%3Bot1lsi

http://images.snapfish.com/3468%3B3749%7Ffp343%3Enu%3D3233%3E588%3E466%3E2324 588557%3A92ot1lsi

[Ericka_Jarett]

Sorry taterbaby, think it's still to early to tell.

[jeant]

Sorry I have been so AWOL ... should be better soon! The trip to NY for the Today show took a lot out of me and I'm just now recovering. Lots of radio this week and then it will probably calm down.

I will post about the book stuff first ... and then about the much more important baby news!

Thanks to all of you who liked the Today show interview. I still can't believe I got to meet Katie Couric! She was very smart and straightforward as well as being nice. We talked for a few minutes both before and after the segment -- she was really interested in the book, which was amazing.

They did a movie review (of American Dreamz) after my segment, and (off-air) she said "That was one of the worst movies I've ever seen!" After the review by Gene Shalit, Matt said on-air "Well, he liked it -- what did you think, Katie?" And she just laughed and said "Thanks a lot, Matt." Interesting what she can't say on-air!

It was too bad the producers had me on with the other woman (an etiquette columnist -- ironic, as she kept interrupting!). She kept talking about things she didn't know anything about, and I just can't let things like that slide. I spend 4 pages in the book on why the statement "You have to love yourself before you can love someone else" is not supported by research.

The link in case you want to see it (down and on the left):

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/12392877/

Jenzen You're right that 30 years is longer than average for a generation (more common is about 20 years). I wasn't really looking to re-label a generation (e.g., GenX or GenY), though, but more to describe the generation of people who were raised to believe that everyone should have high self-esteem and put themselves first. Schools, media, & parents began to feed those messages to kids around 1980 and haven't stopped since, so birth years of 1970-1999 (or maybe 2006!) does capture people who were raised that way. BTW, your son is super-cute!

[jeant]

OK, now for baby news. Silly part first -- it's weird: I am not really showing yet. I guess it's because I am tall and have some room in there. My regular pants stopped fitting about a week ago, but I have an arsenal of hidden elastic waist pants since I always found them more comfortable even pre-pg. I wore a pair on the Today show, and they hide the little belly I do have.

Now the big news. We got the CVS results and the baby is normal. Whew!!! That was a huge relief to hear.

Plus, we found out that it's a ............





















GIRL!!!!!!

I am thrilled, since I really wanted a girl. I am embarrassed I had a preference, but I did! So I still can't believe I got what I wanted.

[lawgirl4]

jeant - CONGRATULATIONS!!!! I had a feeling that you were having a girl. No idea why, just had that vibe! And, more importantly, of course, so glad to hear that everything is okay!

(and thanks for posting that link! I will watch the video when I get home - my work computer gets all screwy w/video).

[Pamela]

jeant Congratulations on your Girl!!

[bunnybeth]

Last week was just too busy to stop by CC again, so I'm still terribly behind. I started taking a half dose of Sudafed before bed over the weekend so I could sleep better, and it really helped a lot. I'm feeling so much better today, that once again I'm feeling a bit of m/s... that icky feeling was drowned out by the worse feeling of sickness last week.

Hope everyone else who's been sick is doing better now as well. It stinks to be sick when you're pregnant, that's for sure.

I went dress shopping with my mom over the weekend for the black tie ball. It was tough to find something that fit my belly and didn't make me look fat, but we managed with a black satin halter gown, 2 sizes larger than my pre-pregnancy size. Also picked up some maternity pantyhose (can't wear regular control tops anymore!) and some maternity denim crops from Old Navy. I'm going to be in the car for about 12 hours this coming weekend, so I need to feel comfy!

Welcome, hmdelf!

jeant Congrats on your girl!

QOTD Godparents I'm really up in the air about this one. Half of my family, and none of DH's family are Catholic, so my options are limited. I believe we will pick different guardians from the godparents.

[Jenzen01]

Hi all,

Well, after all my worrying, my appointment went just fine. It took the dr. a minute to find the heartbeat, which sort of scared me, but there baby was, hanging out on my left side where he was at my last appointment. Heartrate was in the 150s, which is the same as Gabe. I'm measuring right on, and I didn't gain anything, due mostly to having the flu this weekend. I know I dropped between 3-4 pounds because I had just weighed myself last week on the scale in our company weightroom.

Oh, and now I'm sitting here in agony because my stomach is gurgling up a storm. Guess the flu bug is still haunting me.

jeant - Congrats on your girl! I would really like to read your book ... I told my DH that's it's pretty exciting to be able to discuss it with the actual author! When else would I have the opportunity. Of course, I don't exactly get the most reading done these days because we collapse after Gabe goes to bed.

bunnybeth - Sorry to hear you were so sick. I can definitely understand because I've been in the pits this week, too.

taterbaby - I'm no good on belly guesses ... just wanted to say you're looking great!

Threadmistress - My next appointment is May 25. My big ultrasound is May 22.

[Lily]

Hi Ladies,

I'll come back later to do replies, I just wanted to let you know that my appt. went really well. The baby was on it's stomach at first so the u/s tech adjusted the table so that my head was down and my feet were up. It was actually really comfortable and the baby moved pretty quickly to face up. She got all of the measurements she needed and it took about an hour. But most importantly she reavealed that we are going to have a.......























GIRL!!!!!!!

We're both super excited and went to Babies r Us right after the appt. to pick out our crib set and stroller. We didn't buy them since we're moving in 2 months, but at least we've picked something out. :)

[pickle]

Wow, team pink is really pulling ahead! Congrats on your girls, Lily and jeant! Am I the only one who knows she's having a boy so far?

QOTD Godparents- I have no idea what we're going to do about this...I'm not very religious and would prefer to just not do anything at all, but J is Catholic and I think will definitely want to go through the whole shebang. I'm leaving that discussion in the "I'll think about it tomorrow" pile for now. ;)

We started househunting this weekend and my head is all over the place today. I can't concentrate on anything! I'll get caught up soon, but in the meantime I hope everyone is feeling well!

ps--thanks for posting that link, jeant! I'm totally intrigued by your book and have added it to my amazon wishlist!

[Bubeleh]

Jeant: Congrats on your test results and your little girl!

QOTD-Godparents: I'm not sure what we will be doing. My siblings are either a different religion or not in a position to take care of our child if anything happened, and his siblings are either not the responsible type, or are too young. His parents are older and so are mine so we may pick our friends who are a married couple, share the same cultural and parental values that we do and they are in a financial position that they are able to take care of our child if anything happens. We are not Chrisitan or catholic so no baptizing, confirming or anything else.

Not much going on here, I worked most of the weekend. Still not feeling any movement, but I'm definitly starting to pop out a little bit. Next week is the big u/s and I'm dying waiting for it to come.

[Pamela]

Lily, congratulations on your Girl!!

[Nigellas]

jeant and Lily- Congratulations on your girls! Awesome! :D

I can't believe I have another 5 weeks until we (hopefully) find out. The torture!

[Quartercentury]

Congratulations on your baby girls Jeant and Lily!!!

[marathongirl]

jeant and lily - congrats on your GIRLS!!!

tater - I'm gonna guess boy for your belly.

Sorry some of you are still feeling yucky! Hopefully some nice weather will knock out the rest of the germs.

Not much going on with me. DD and I stayed with my parents last night. Claire loves, loves, loves her grandma!!! The baby usually gives me one good thump a day, so that's very reassuring. I'm just counting the days (20) until my next appt so we can see the little one (we are calling the baby K2) again.

[Rippy1010]

Is anyone else having soreness around where their legs meet their body (I guess that would be the groin area) when they are walking and taking stairs?

I was wondering if it signals a problem, or if it is just because I have to stand all day?

Congrats to everyone who has found out the gender!!!

[dzmattie]

jeant - great interview on the Today show - thanks for posting the link - I just watched it. Too bad the other woman kept interupting! And Katie was VERY interested in what you had to say which is great!

And - congrats to you and Lily on your little girls!!!

I have a OB appt tomorrow April 25th - should be scheduling the "big" u/s! We are finding out the sex! (hopefully!)

Godparents - We kind of consider the guardians and godparents separate - my parents would be our kids guardians and my sister and DH's brother are DS's godparents - we are not decided for this baby. Will probably be my brother and DH's sister but we aren't sure yet....

BC - Definitely haven't discussed - I can't take BC so that is out....

Have a great day all....

[Quartercentury]

Is anyone else having soreness around where their legs meet their body (I guess that would be the groin area) when they are walking and taking stairs?
Sounds like SPD (also known as pelvic girdle pain). Happens when the joints in your pelvis start to loosen up. But you could be getting it worse/earlier if you're on your feet all day.

My number one question for my next MW appointment is how to prevent this. I am terrified of not being able to climb stairs or ride my bicycle. I'd be trapped at home!

[jbemommy]

Just got back from my appt. Everything looks fine, HB was 156.
Next appt. is 5/23--with u/s! But we're not finding out what we're having.
Not much else to report, everything is fine. I have been feeling a little queasy in the mornings again lately. I think DD finally understands, DH asked her where the baby was and she said, "In mommy's tummy". We've been talking about her helping when the baby is born and she says, "That be fun." :)

[Lily]

MidwesternGal - Sorry that Dream Dinners isn't in your area. Glad I'm not the only one who has a baby camped out right on their bladder. Mornings are the worst. If I don't get to the bathroom first thing I start to cramp up. The u/s tech said that she should probably rise in the next few weeks. I sure hope so. :)

Nigellas - I noticed that the veggie selections were limited too, that would be a great area for them to expand on. Thank you for the congrats. I can't wait for her to get here.

Maplekitty - Ohhh, that does sound tasty.

MichelleRenee - Cute belly pic.

Jenzen - I'm so glad to hear that your baby is doing great! I hope that the stomach bug gets better soon.

Ericka - Cute belly pic. I hope that your appts. go well today.

Pamela - Thank you. The baby was actually pretty subdued and the u/s tech had to trick her into moving a couple of times. It's so funny, earlier in the thread I noticed that our symptoms were pretty similar and then when you found out that you were having a girl I wondered about mine and now I know. :) Have you started looking at bedding yet?

TaterBaby - I'm going to also say boy.

Jeant - I was trying to explain which generation you were writing about to my Mom and I got confused. Thanks for clarifying that, I'll let her know. ;) Congratulations on your Baby Girl. Team Pink is really growing.

qc - Thank you for the congrats. Yesterday was definitely a good day. :)

marathongirl - Thank you.

Rippy - I haven't really had that problem, but it sounds like it could come from having to stand most of the day. You're a teacher, right? I know that there are quite a few teachers in the Sep. 06 thread. You might want to pose your question there too.

dzmattie - Thank you for the congratulations. Good luck at your appt. today.
************************************************** *************

I have so much to do today and I'm so low on energy this morning. Maybe I'll sneak back into to bed for a couple of hours and start everything around 10am. :)

QOTD Answer - We decided to not have godparents for our children. All of my family and closest friends live out of state, so it's not really the ideal situation for us to go this route. If anything, god forbid, ever did happen to DH and I, the baby would most likely go to my mom.

QOTD 1 - In regards to parenthood, what is everyone most looking forward to...? For me, I can't wait to hold and breastfeed my child, take vacations, get them ready for school, be involved in PTA, and everything else in between I guess. :)

QOTD 2 - How does everyone feel about posting pictures of the babygear or bedding that we're all deciding on? - I know that some people feel it clutters up the thread, but it might help everyone to get ideas too. If pictures are too much, we could list what items we're considering or have bought and just post a link to the picture. What do you all think?

*Edited for grammatical errors*

[Nigellas]

QOTD 1 - Holding my baby for the first time. We've wanted this child for so long, it will truly be a dream come true for me.

QOTD 2 - I *love* looking at pictures. I'm all for it!

[maplekitty]

Congratulations jeant and lily!!! Lots of little girls now!!

OOOOoooooh, I sure hope we can find out what we'r having at my u/s next week. The tech says they aren't "allowed" to tell until after 20 weeks (abortion laws). But I hope we have a laid back tech who might stretch the rules, common, I'll be 18 weeks (19 wks according to my doctor who can't get my dates straight :p )

So far, not much going on with me. Havn't felt any flutters yet - I guess I've got too much padding ;) The fatigue is getting better, and I should get my anemia blood results back soon. I'm getting the pain in my butt more often (which I found out from my chiropractor is my pelvis starting to seperate and it's very normal to feel nerve pain in your upper butt).

We're moving, or...we get possesion of the new house in 5 days. Which will be the start of painting and reno blitz, and then we actually move in in two weeks. I'm looking forward to being really tired and being in pain! :p Thankfully we have a lot of friends helping out.

[MidwesternGal]

Hello all!
Congrats to jeant and lily on the girls!!! Secretly, I'm kind of hoping for a girl, but I'm convinced it's a boy. . . . either way, as long as we're healthy!!

Maplekitty--Glad I'm not the only one with butt pain probs! LOL. I figured maybe I was just sitting on my butt at the computer too long lately!

Rippy--I feel that pain usually if I'm "running around" more. However, it usually disappears after a while. My hips have defintiely spread all ready, I can see it in the mirror.

We have another appointment today!! Listening to the heartbeat again, and then talk about ??? I don't know. I have been having a slight pain in my lower left groin area, ever since I got pg. We had sex the other night, and I *swear* it felt like DH was "pushing" on something. That just doesn't seem right to me!! Anyone know what that could be? I plan to ask the doctor.

I'm also going to tell the doctor to make sure she only hears *1* heartbeat. . . . I stupidly told a few people about my raipd gain a few weeks ago and now pretty much everyone is convinced it's twins! Acck! I highly doubt it though. . . .but it doesn't stop me from worrying!!!

QOTD 1 - In regards to parenthood, what is everyone most looking forward to...? Honestly, I'm not sure yet. This was a surprise, so frankly, I haven't been thinking about that--just thinking about money and space and schools and things like that! I think I will really enjoy seeing my child figure out who they are and his/her purpose in life--I think that gives people a real sense of self and well-being. It will be interesting to see who s/he becomes!

QOTD 2 - How does everyone feel about posting pictures of the babygear or bedding that we're all deciding on? -I think links sound good. There is a nursery thread in one of the parenting forums (0-18 months I think) with lots of good ideas. However, if you come across something really unique, or have just 1 picture that shows a lot, that'd be okay to see! But I'm up for whatever everyone else decides!

[Bubeleh]

Congrats on your Girl Lily! DH is pulling for a boy and I'm leaning towards a girl, so we'll see who wins next week!

QOTD 1: I really have thought much past the first few moments. I'm really looking forward to seeing DH bond with dc.

QOTD 2: I love looking at all the photos, but I'll go with the group majority.

[jbemommy]

Midwesterngal I think that "pushing" feeling during sex is pretty normal as your uterus gets bigger. There is something in there taking up a lot of extra space, KWIM? And I wanted a girl last time, too, but was convinced it was a boy. But she was a girl! :p

QOTD My favorite part of being a parent with DD has been watching her grow and develop. She is just amazing! And when she gives me a big hug and says, "I love you, mommy"--that's the best!

[marathongirl]

midwesterngal - I'm hoping for another girl too, but I just think this one will be a boy. As long as the baby is happy and healthy, I'm happy.

QOTD 1 - I can't wait to see Claire with her sibling. She adores babies - I just hope the adoration doesn't wear off too quickly for her :rolleyes: .

QOTD 2 - I'd love to see pics of the nurseries! We're just going to reuse the same fish bedding that we had for Claire.

maplekitty - good luck with the move!

Hello to everyone else!

Claire and I had a good time at my parents. I actually went and had my very first pedicure ever. It was nice to be pampered!

[bunnybeth]

Jenzen Hope the flu will let you out of it's grips soon. Although it's nice to be feeling even a little better, don't you think? That's great to hear your appointment went well, mine is tomorrow and I'm trying not to be nervous myself.

Lily Congrats on your girl! (Lots of girls around here so far...)

QOTD 1 I'm most looking forward to meeting a unique little person who combines both DH and myself and yet is totally their own individual. That's just always seemed like an amazing thing.

QOTD 2 I fear large images and side-scrolling and would prefer links to pictures, but I don't feel that strongly about it, so whatever will be ok.

[Jenzen01]

QOTD1 - I'm looking forward to seeing Gabe as a big brother. I think he'll be great ... we've already told him there's a baby in my tummy, so now he pulls up my shirt and says "ba-bee." Of course, he also thinks there's a baby in his tummy and in daddy's tummy. :)

QOTD2 - I'd love to see photos! We did our nursery in the Pottery Barn sheep motif. I didn't actually buy the Pottery Barn stuff ... just ripped off their ideas. I'll post a pic when I can. If we have a girl, I'm going to add a few girly touches, like a shabby-chic chandelier and some new curtains. We also have to figure out how to do Gabe's new room. I think it's going to be a fish motif because DH loves fishing for walleyes!

midwesterngal - I've had feelings like that from time to time. Doesn't sound too odd to me.

marathongirl - A pedicure! Lucky dog! I could go for one of those. :)

Pains - OK, so I'm going to admit this ... I have hemorrhoids! Awk! I can't believe I got them this early! I was really, really bruised down there after pushing Gabe out, so I guess it's not that big of a surprise, but the dr. said that when you get them this early they only get worse. Lovely. :)

[lawgirl4]

QOTD 1 - I love bunnybeth's answer:

"I'm most looking forward to meeting a unique little person who combines both DH and myself and yet is totally their own individual. That's just always seemed like an amazing thing."

I couldn't have said it better myself! :)

QOTD 2 - I love looking at photos too. Links can be annoying especially for those of us who come on here at work and already have a ton of windows open on the computer. I guess we can just request that people resize photos if they come out too huge - I agree that side scrolling is a pain!

****************************

well, my parenting skills were tested last night - my 20 yr old brother called at 1am saying he had to go to the ER due to bad stomach pains. Our family is in NY (I live here and he goes to school here) and so I hopped in the car and met him at the hospital. we were there until 5 and I was so worried about him. thankfully he got great care and all seems to be okay. But it made me really, really thankful for the health of those around me and that's all I want for this baby.

****************************

jenzen - ugh on the hemorrhoids! but I hope that's balanced out by your son's total cuteness. :)

lily - congrats on your girl!!! that is wonderful!

midwesterngal - hope your appt went well today and that there's only ONE baby inside there!!

rippy - I have had those pains since about 6 weeks! and I know my hips widened early, so I wouldn't be worried about it. I still get them from time to time.

maplekitty - good luck with the move! how exciting! and I too have not felt anything yet, that I could identify - I think I have too much padding too. ;) But I know that most 1st time moms don't feel anything until 18-20 weeks, so it's normal. also, very interesting about Canada's abortion/finding out the sex laws. In law school I wrote a big research paper on female infanticide in India and amniocentesis was (is) often performed to determine the sex of the baby - and many women abort if it's a girl. terrible. it's been a real problem in many areas.

edited to add:

I am an aunt again! my SIL gave birth to a 6lb 6oz baby girl yesterday - she came out in the THIRD push! amazing, no?!?! here's a photo of me, my niece, and my belly!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/family%20pics/47b6da04b3127cce88f02e31e3b90000002.jpg

[maplekitty]

lawgirl - aww you look wonderful with your little niece!

[MichelleRenee]

Wow... congrats on your girls, jeant and lily!

[Ericka_Jarett]

My appts went great today.

The peri was first and my doctor had to leave early due to sickness. I had my u/s and the tech said that the heartrate was normal at 152. My cervix is long and closed tight just like it should be so that was great news. I asked about finding out the sex she said it was too early, so I have to still wait now for at least 4 more weeks (unless I still have my next u/s in 2 weeks and they tell me) Doctor just called me and said my sugars were good, the u/s looked great and he was pleased and would see me at the level 2 u/s and cervix re-check in 4 weeks.

At the OB appt my weight was 4 lbs down from what it was 2 weeks ago (thanks to diabetic diet) and the doctor wasn't too concerned about that, but did say to try and not loss anymore weight now, since I was on it for 3 weeks now. I said it pretty much is steady now. My b/p was great at both appts, I mentioned that I didn't know if my chart said anything or not, but I was not on the b/p meds, the OB made a note and said great. Got to hear the little ones heart beating like crazy. The OB was able to find it right away and said it sounds great and to call if I have anything that doesn't feel right. She said we are going to get you past this point (pointing on my chart to my infant loss of Rebekah at 24 weeks)

No new u/s pics to post just yet, the ones she was getting were mainly of my cervix today, did get to see the little one moving around though so it was good.

QOTD 1 - I think I am most looking forward to having a healthy newborn to bring home from the hospital.

QOTD 2 - My pics are in my journal since I have the quilts that I cross-stitched and most of the Noah's Ark items (lights, bank, clock and more) bedding pics (http://www.constantchatter.com/showthread.php?t=11742&page=5)

[jenniferlynne]

Hi everyone. I had my midwife appointment yesterday, and all is well, though I did have a big scare. She couldn't find the heartbeart at all. I like my MW so much, though, because she's very reassuring. She just kept telling me that we'd just seen the baby on Friday and all was well, and that it would be extremely unusual for something to go wrong at this point in the pregnancy. So then she wheeled in the portable ultrasound and we found the baby and saw the heartbeat. What a relief!

In other news, I've gained 15 lbs. :eek: Unfortunately, eating is the only thing that curbs my nausea. I keep thinking it's going to end soon but I'm still sick...and now I'm fat too. :(

Congrats to Lily and Jeant on your little girls! I can't believe people are finding out already!

Ericka: I'm glad everything looked good for you! 24 weeks will be here and gone before you know it.

QOTD 1: I'm looking so forward to having a little baby to cuddle again. My son just turned two and is SO over cuddling with mommy, unless he's gotten hurt or is very tired. When he was little, I loved holding him as he slept or putting him in a sling or the Baby Bjorn and just having him next to me. There's nothing like it...

QOTD 2: I'd love to see nursery pictures for inspiration!

I'm really having a dilemma over this AFP decision. To recap, last pregnancy my AFP came back normal but with elevated HCG, which bumped me into the high-risk category. The connection between high HCG and pregnancy complications is vague and not very well-documented (according to my midwife) but statistically, people with this problem are at increased risk for a number of different complications. Last time, I had to come in once a week after 32 weeks for blood pressure checks and nonstress tests. I never had any problems at all. Since our NT came back low-risk, and the anatomy ultrasound will catch pretty much all other problems, I was thinking of skipping the AFP. BUT they can't check my HCG separately (I don't understand that, but they can't.) My DH and midwife don't really think the AFP is necessary, but I'm not so sure. What if my HCG is elevated again and this time I do have some kind of complication that won't be caught since I won't be monitored as closely? Then I would feel terrible... What do you guys think? The only reason I would skip the AFP is to avoid a false positive result.

Threadmistress: my next OB appointment is June 5

[Roxygirl]

Okay it's my promise to get better about posting and not just reading right now. I can't even remember the last time I posted anything in here.

Congrats on the girls Lily and Jeant. How exciting. My "big" ultrasound is in two weeks and I can't wait!!!!

TaterBaby: I don't know if I can give a sex guess yet. I have no idea what to even look for. But I'll throw caution to the wind and say Boy just because it seems like everyone else is having girls and we've got to get some boys going soon too.

Rippy I have been having that exact pain but just on the right side. It feels to me like the worst pulled muscle ever. Not fun at all.

Maplekitty How exciting that your move is coming up. We just moved into our house in July and I know how much work it is, especially if you're doing quite a lot of renos. I admire you, I don't know if I could do all that right now. Good Luck and Enjoy.

---------------------------------
QOTD's
**Godparents, we are having them because my husband is catholic and we will be bapt. the baby. However, just because they are the Godparents doesn't mean they are the ones to take our child if something happens.

**BC after baby: I haven't really thought about it but I guess I'll probably go back on the pill. It seemed to work for so many years.

**What am I looking forward to: Every single detail of the whole experience. Definately can't wait for the moment when I first see and hold my child. I don't think there will be anything that can compare.

**I don't care if we post ideas for nurseries. The more the better to me. I'm always looking for cute ideas.

My own QOTD: Is anyone else paranoid about sleeping on their back. I keep waking up in the night and finding myself on my back everytime.

---------------------------------
Okay so I am really looking forward to feeling the baby move. I keep thinking I feel something and then am never quite sure. My wonderful husband had to point out last night that my hips were gone. He could always feel my hip bones before and now he can't. (Isn't he sweet):rolleyes:

Okay my 16 week belly shot
http://images1.snapfish.com/346924%3B86%7Ffp346%3Enu%3D3244%3E3%3A6%3E759%3EWS NRCG%3D323367728682%3Bnu0mrj

Okay that's it for now. Hopefully I can stay caught up better and not have to do such a long post next time.

Threadmistress: My Next appt is April 28th and my big ultrasound is May 8th.
Can you change my DH age to 26 also. Thanks.

[Sua]

Jeant and Lily - Congrats on your healthy baby girls!!

lawgirl - Aww! You, your niece and your baby belly are adorable! Glad your brother is okay.

Maplekitty - Good luck with your move!

Jenzen -Ouch! I hope your doctor is wrong and you get some relief! I am late with this, but that photo of your son is so adorable!!!

jenniferlynne - That is a tough decision. I am skipping it myself since my NT screen bumped me down into the lowest risk categories. But, my only other risk factor is that I was born before "Generation Me" started. ;) Good luck with your decision!

QOTD 1: I cant wait to just trade stares with a newborn again. I just loved staring into my son's eyes when he nursed or we were cuddling. Like the other mom's said, I am also excited to see my son with a sibling.

QOTD 2: I think posting nursery or other baby purchase ideas are great. We can be curteous with the photo sizes. Any and all product recommendations are so helpful!

QOTD 3: I am not paranoid about sleeping on my back, yet. I forget when we need to start worrying about it, but I havent reached that week in my "Week by Week" book yet, so I am enjoying the back sleeping while I can. :)

Take care everyone! :D

[marathongirl]

lawgirl - you and your little niece look adorable! You'll be posting pics holding your own little on soon!

ericka_jarrett - glad you had such a good appt! Yeah for your b/p and sugars being good!!!

roxygirl - yes I am paranoid about sleeping on my back! I have more pillows shoved around me to try and keep myself from rolling over, but every night I wake up on my back. The way I see it, it's probably only been fairly recently that doctors warned against sleeping on your back and I highly doubt there was a bunch of instances where babies were hurt due to moms sleeping on their backs.

jenniferlynne - that is a tough decision! I don't know what I'd do in your position. Hugs in making the right choice for you and your family!

DD is cutting more teeth and it's not going so well for her. She's always got her fingers in her mouth and has had terrible diarreah for the last week. Her poor tushie is all red and raw. I wish I could grow her teeth for her!

[Quartercentury]

From what I understand, back sleeping is only 'dangerous' after the 20th week, when the uterus becomes big enough to compress blood vessels in your back. So even then you're very likely to roll over to avoid numb legs before you do yourself or your baby any damage. The other risk of course is a posterior baby, which isn't dangerous, per se, but can make labor difficult.

I just almost spelled labor with a 'u.' I have been in England too long!

QOTD on parenthood: I am just so looking forward to this adventure. I am excited about everything. About birth and getting to use cute cloth diapers and not being one of those women who hog all the space on the bus with their gigantic strollers (hello, sling!) and taking my toddler to the beach. I think I am inordinately excited about taking my kid to the beach. I hope they like it!

QOTD on photos: I'd like to see links or photos. We're not doing a nursery as we're planning to have the baby in our room and we rent, so no painting or remodelling. So I won't have much to contribute, but I'd like to see what other people are doing!

[lawgirl4]

QOTD re back sleeping - I am paranoid about this too! not so much because I am worried about its effects now, but because I am trying to just get into the habit of sleeping on my left side. And thus, I just purchased this from overstock.com:

http://images.overstock.com/f/102/3117/8h/www.overstock.com/images/products/P919124.jpg

I like that it gives you both front and back support - and I think it will make it easier to stay on one side.

***************************************

ericka - glad to hear your appts went so well!!

jenniferlynne - your experience at the dr's is why I am holding off on renting a doppler... if I were at home and couldn't find the heartbeat I know I would freak out! I'm glad your midwife brought in the u/s - that must have been so reassuring.

marathongirl - hope your daughter feels better soon - poor thing!

[jeant]

maplekitty That is so interesting about not being able to find out the sex until 20 weeks. Is that really a law in Canada? I did a brief Google search and couldn't find anything, but I probably wasn't looking in the right place. Not true here in the U.S., of course.

About back sleeping -- at my last appt the nurse told me this wasn't a big deal. After all, most women who give birth in hospitals labor on their backs, and that's often for longer than you'd sleep.

All for seeing nursery pics!

That reminds me of a question I wanted to ask the veteran moms: Did you use a crib bumper? I've heard varying opinions on that.

[Jenzen01]

jeant - re: crib bumpers ... I didn't use one. I really kept the crib simple ... just a waterproof mattress pad and a sheet over that. I kept a crib blanket in there and covered him up from the waist down when he was really little. (I stomach-slept Gabe ... shhhhh ... don't tell anyone). Now that he's bigger, he has a pillow and two blankets in his crib. You really don't need all that fancy crib stuff ...

[emermel]

Hi everyone! Congrats on the little girls! Little girls are fun! (Although I'm sure that little boys are too!).

We got back Monday night from our house hunting trip. DD was great on the whole trip (until we got on the plane on the way back). We found a great house that was within our price range. All we are going to have to do to the house is paint the bedrooms! The kitchen/basement/entire main level are completely redone (the house is 30 years old).

Our family was really excited about the new baby. DD wore her t-shirt off the plane and showed everyone. My dad said that he wasn't that surprised!

We had an ER visit while we were home. You all know that I have been having on and off spotting for a while, but on Thursday night, it was really bad. If I hadn't known that I was pg, I would have thought "oh, I starte dmy period". We went in and got check out-by a really grumpy midwife- and everything was fine. I've only had a tiny bit of spotting since then. I will definitely bring this up to my doctor at my appt on Monday. It was really frightening! As we were walking out the door, MIL said to me "Whatever is meant to be will be", which I know she said to try to make me feel better, but it made me feel worse! DH too! But I'm pretty sure I have been feeling bumps from the inside pretty much every day now, so I feel OK.

OK...I HAVE to get in the shower so that we can go to plagroup.

Hope all is well with everyone!

[She-Ra]

lawgirlGreat pic! Both your belly & baby are adorable!

QOTD on parenthood: I can't wait to see this little creature's personality. My son is usually pretty laid back, and I think just so stinkin' cute, that I hope we didn't break the mold with him.

QOTD on backsleeping: I don't worry about it yet-I just want some sleep! However DH is way anal & will tell me to roll over to my side in the middle of the night. Hmmm. Wonder why I don't sleep with someone directing me at 3 am?????? He also has been giving me a hard time for eating blue cheese.

I was feeling better, but threw up in the front yard today while DH was putting DS in the car. DS kept asking "Momma OK, Momma OK?" I hope I didn't scar him for life.

My appt was non-eventful. I didn't gain anything this month, so that puts me at one pound total gain at 16 weeks, which works for me. The NT screen was normal, and so were my Blood pressure & the baby's HB. :)

[Ericka_Jarett]

We are registered for breathable bumpers, they sell them in white only. That way as the baby gets older no little arms and legs hanging out of the crib.

http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B00005BPEU.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg

[Lily]

maplekitty - I hope that you find out the gender of your baby next week too. I'm just now starting to feel some stirring down there, but no definitive kicks yet. Hopefully within the next 2 weeks I will. Good luck with your move. Do you know what color you're painting your nursery or are you waiting to choose until you know if it's a boy or girl?

MidwesternGal - Thank you. I hope that your appt. went well yesterday.

Bubeleh - Thank you so much, we're both really happy that it's a girl. I think DH wanted a boy first but now he's already talking about teaching her golf. Which is his favorite past time. :)

bunnybeth - Thank you.

lawgirl - You're niece is so precious! You look great too! :) Thanks for posting that picture. I definitely need one of those to. It looks pretty comfy.

Ericka - I'm glad that your appt. went so well.

jenniferlynne - I'm glad that your baby is doing great. A lot of time weight will regulate once in the second trimester. I can't really offer any advice about the AFP. It's such a personal decision, but I'm sure that you and your DH will make the right choice. :)

Roxygirl - Cute belly pic. My DH made a comment about my tummy starting to look "huge". I'm like hello, it's because there's a baby in there. :rolleyes:

Sua - Thank you for the congrats.

************************************************** ***********

I'm glad to hear that everyone is doing so great. I did a little shopping for our baby girl yesterday and at first I felt so lost looking at all of the little outfits and sizes. I mean how many 0-3 and 3-6 month sleepers/outfits should I buy? I went to Kohl's who is having a Grand Opening Sale offering 50% off infant and some maternity clothing. I couldn't resist buying my first baby clothes. I got 2 sleepers, a robe, and matching towel w/hood. Here's are a couple of pics.

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid205/p276842f66c06881f0b130da8527f08f7/ef425fe8.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid205/p982d12c7caccbd194cf9299f2722d5e0/ef425f40.jpg

[marathongirl]

jeant - we bought the crib set (bumpers, sheet, window valance, crib skirt, and 1 other item came in the set). Waste of money in my opinion. We didn't use the bumpers b/c I was too nervous about SIDS. Only the window valance is up and we use the sheet. It would have been much cheaper to buy them separately.

lily - cute outfits!!! IMO, I wouldn't buy too many 0-3 and 3-6 clothes b/c we got TONS as gifts. I think almost every woman finds those tiny little pink outfits irresistible.

emermel - no more spotting! That must have been so scary and I'm glad everything is OK.

she-ra - glad your appt was good!

[She-Ra]

Crib Bumpers We used them until he was standing. He always sleeps smashed in a corner of the bed, and now that he is 2 he still gets a hand or foot caught in there, but can get himself out by himself. When he was younger it would have scared him a lot more.

In our case it also helped keep the binkies in, plus I loved my bedding for him, and the bumpers were the best part!

[MidwesternGal]

Hi all! Just a quick fly-by!

We only had *1* heartbeat in there, whew! I don't know if I could have handled twins!

My doctor says I have only gained 6 total pounds, so apparently that week I was flipping out was all kind of a fluke! Again--whew!!

Things are seeming to be going well. I gave blood for a quad-screen test, and if things come back poorly, they'll call us.

The baby had moved from my lower pelvic region all the way to up under my belly button!! Wow! No wonder my stomach is growing quickly!

Otherwise, the next appointment with u/s is May 22.

[dzmattie]

Hi all -

My appt was uneventful too - heartbeat was strong, BP was fine 110/74, another 5th disease blood test was neg, and the NT screening was fine - although they did "forget" at the ultrasound for the NT to do my bloodwork with the u/s and by the time I called they said it was too late. My OB was very upset about it and felt horrible that the nurses messed up but I am not too concerned. I am going to do the AFP so I think that will have us covered. I have only gained 1 lb in 15 weeks - but I am still vomiting most nights...doc doesn't want to give me Zofran though...going to try taking the Zantac earlier in the day he said that might help. I only gained 18lbs with DS so he isn't too concerned about this lack of weight gain...I wish I could eat though and this nausea would let up.

QOTD - I think I am looking forward to seeing DS as a big brother and to just cuddling with the baby again....

Bumpers - I only used ours for a couple months - DS started rolling VERY early and it scared me. The poor thing slept with nothing except a sheet on his crib for months!

Sleepers - I got alot of this stuff for DS at my showers etc but still remember going out to get more stuff after he was born. We didn't get as much clothes as some of my friends with little girls got - I think it is because the pink stuff is irresistible!! I also found that after he was born there were certain "styles" and fabrics I just liked better than others and would go out and get three of the kind I liked....different things wash better than others etc...but if you find good deals I would get them now if you can! Keep receipts - some stores are good about returns although alot are getting "stricter"...TRU, BRU, Target, etc....I think Kohls is pretty good.

Also - if there were things I didn't use - I kept the tags on them and - as long as I had bought them - I kept a bin of "baby gifts" and would give them away if I didn't end up using them!

Next appt with u/s is May 24th!

I like seeing the pictures and I think as long as everyone trys to condense them I am fine with it - especially since we don't need as much "stuff" for this baby I like to see what others are getting/registering for! But I will go with whatever everyone wants...

[Sua]

lawgirl -I am ordering that pillow RIGHT NOW. I spent so much time tucking pillows in front and in back of me when I slept, it was a nightmare to turn over. I looked at one like that when I was pg last summer, but I thought they were sold out. I am excited to see they are back! Thanks for posting it!

Lily - Cute girly stuff! I agree with marathongirl, it seems like babies are out of the really small stuff so fast and you'll probably get lots of gifts in the small sizes. It is so hard to resist though!

Emermel - Sorry to hear about the spotting scares. :( I am glad that all is okay. Congrats on finding a potential house! Are you moving to the west side or east side of the state? (If you dont mind my asking)

She-ra - I must admit, I smiled a little when you said you were sick in your yard. (I hope you are feeling better now) I did the same thing on Sunday, but it was triggered by a bird pooping on my head when I was working in the garden. Lovely.

Crib bumpers - I did get them, but my son coslept until he was a year or so. They do sell sleep positioners that help keep kids from rolling to the sides of the crib that might help if you're nervous about using bumpers. We used one in our bed so he had his own "nook".

[She-Ra]

SUA That's OK- No neighbors were in sight & you were the first one I wanted to tell b/c I knew you would appreciate it. ;)

[maplekitty]

maplekitty That is so interesting about not being able to find out the sex until 20 weeks. Is that really a law in Canada? I did a brief Google search and couldn't find anything, but I probably wasn't looking in the right place. Not true here in the U.S., of course.



I'm pretty sure that's a Canada-wide law, but to tell you the truth, I'm not sure. It may vary from province to province, I've never really looked into it.
In B.C. though, it varies even more. In the Lowermainland of Vancouver, I live in one city and they tell you at 20 wks, however the new city I'm moving to 20 mins away won't tell you until 27 wks, and you have to pay 150 dollars to know the sex. Crazy eh?! I ask my u/s tech about that and she said that each lab has to wait until 20 wks to tell, but then they can make whatever other rules after that( waiting to tell longer, charger $$, only letting you OB tell you instead of knowing right at the u/s). Even the price of the 3D u/s varies - at my lab it's $100 but I've heard of some women paying up to $300 for it :confused:

[hmdelf]

Congratulations on your baby girls Jeant and Lily!!!
Lawgirl-how much was that pillow? Great shot of you, belly, and dear dear cute niece!!!!
Emer-Soory about the scare and ER visit. At least all is well.
Crib bumpers- I used the bumper until eddie could stand. I also used a sleep positioner until he could roll over (2 1/2 months). I had him in Halo sleep sacks for a blanket and to this day he doesn't sllep with a blanket or pillow.
She-ra- soory about the nausea. MI got sick this morning and my little son came in to rub my back.... It was so cute. My little man is getting so big!!!
Midwestern Gal- Glad to hear only one haertbeat!
Everyone with appts.- So much good news. It's great for the uneventful visits, huh?!!!!
Lily- cute clothes!!!
I had my appt. today too. Not much to report. I haven't gained any weight. Heartbeat was strong. I am going to call and get my level two ultrasound appt. now!!! I have been feeling the baby move and my stomach is getting bigger by the day!!!
My nausea has gone from 5-6 times a day to once which I am grateful for!!!!

[Lily]

marathongirl - Thank you for the advice. :) I couldn't believe that 0-3 months was only up to 12 pounds. That definitely won't last long. I think I will start to load up on the 6-9 month clothes, but that seems so far away. I'm definitely going to have to resist temptation.

MidwesternGal - I'm glad that your appt. went well. I wish that my baby would float up a little and give my bladder a break. :)

dzmattie - Great advice about the sleepers. Thank you. It's so nice to have 2nd and 3rd time moms in our thread. I'm glad that your appt. went well.

************************************************** *******

Girls, I feel so guilty. I met some friends for coffee today and ordered a Grande Caramel Light Frappucino from Starbucks. It's my all time favorite Spring/Summer drink and it's so nice out today I couldn't resist. I felt GREAT of course, afterwards since I haven't had coffee in months but I also felt so bad. Oh well, as long as it's not a regular kind of thing right? ;)

I totally forgot to post one of my u/s pics. This was my favorite one. The baby was all curled up with her head and knees pulled in together.

17w6d
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid205/p59d2927dcd8a660f8a1d72e51a535f2a/ef45bfa6.jpg

[Pamela]

Lily, Thats great your u/s tech was able to trick your baby into moving, mine didn't want to at all last week! I'm going to be making my bedding, I just ordered the fabric today.

Maplekitty, how much would it suck if you only got one ultrasound and it was before 20 weeks?! Then you wouldn't even have the option of finding out the sex.

Jenzen, I am totally scared of getting hemmorhoids! I've seen some pretty bad ones at work and would rather just avoid them entirely if possible!

lawgirl, that is such a cute pic of you and your niece!

EricaJarrett, sorry you couldn't find out the sex at your appointment. Glad to hear the diabetic diet is working out for you.

jenniferlynne, sorry you had a scare with finding the heartbeat! Glad it worked out!

Roxygirl, cute belly pic!

emermel, glad to hear everything is ok after your ER visit!

QOTD, What are we looking forward to, I can hardly wait to see and hold my little girl! I also can hardly wait to dress her up in the beautiful baby dresses my Gramma makes and that I wore as a baby.

QOTD, pictures, I don't mind people posting pictures, I love to see them!

QOTD, sleeping on my back, not worried about it. I have to sleep on my back now anyways because if I roll over it makes my contractions worse.

QOTD, crib bumpers, I'm definately using one. I just ordered a ton of pink toile and will definately be making one!

[Pamela]

I had a follow up u/s with the peri today to check and make sure my cervix isn't changing. I drank a bunch of juice and ate some chocolate this morning to try and get the baby moving *snicker* But it must have worked because she was moving around :D Streching her legs out and waving her arms. I got a decent profile pic today, and the tech also snapped a really good pic of her little girly bits (my dh was shocked when I told him! 'They took a picture of that?!') My mom took me today, so that was neat to have her there.

17 weeks
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y145/MrsPamela/Baby/17wkus.jpg

And you can see where the little arrow is pointing at those 3 lines, cute little cha-cha!

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y145/MrsPamela/Baby/Girl.jpg

I feel bad she was so naughty and didn't let us see anything last week when her daddy was there!

I also got a prescription for some lovely meds, so hopefully they'll work and I'll stop contracting and be able to sleep at night.

And since we're posting some pics, here's the fabric I just ordered to do the crib bedding, etc.

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y145/MrsPamela/toile.jpg

[maplekitty]

Well I've got a ton of ideas, and I guess we'll just have to have 10 kids to fully fulfil all my dreams, haha!

Right now for a boy, I want to do a sailboat/lighthouse theme.
This is my favourite bedding so far, and who knows if I'd be able to find it in Canada or even afford it, so I'm using the patterns as inspiration.
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid205/p8d7aa0e358b999632effff5290266cda/ef417951.jpg
I'd like to do a chair rail and on the bottom paint thin red, white, and blue stripes or maybe attempt the plaid pattern. I think I've watched enough episodes of Debbie Travis Painted House to figure it out *wink*

For a girl I've fallen in love with all things toile! At frist I was thinking a pink toile wallpaper under a chairrail, and painting the upper wall in a very very pale pink. However after fliiping through some wallpaper books at a local paint store, I think I like the pale blue toile better. It's soo pretty. I don't know I can't decide at the moment.
I would just buy plain coloured crib bedding since the wallpaper would be pattern enough.

However I also really like this Circus toile bedding I've found.
And the set has recently been reduced from $400.00 to $199.00 on the site I found it on - might be worth ordering it!
http://www.babybedding.com/images/larger/178.jpg

So those are my decorating ideas. Now I just need to know what I'm having so I can focus more on *one* ideas than 5!!

[emermel]

OK...on to QOTD's

Bumpers: We used ours up until we took the crib down last month. I think that the breathable bumpers are a great idea! I just didn't know about them until after we were already using ours.

Sleepers: My advice (free advice is worth what you pay for it) is to not buy ANY 0-3 month outfits-or only buy those that you just CANNOT resist. You will get LOTS of 0-3 stuff from other people, and new babies really don't wear 0-3 for that long. It totally will depend on how big your little one is when s/he comes out. I would wait until you see what you get at showers to see if you need anything.

Woops...DD is up from her nap.

[hmdelf]

My advice (free advice is worth what you pay for it) .I love that quote!!!!
My son wore 0-3 months clothes until he was 5-6 months. He was 6#12oz when he was born and stayed small through the first year. My advice is to buy what you want, but only wash the clothes you totally love. Keep the others with the receipts handy in case you have a larger baby and have to do returns!
At my shower I didn't receive a lot of smaller clothes. My family is huge and there are a ton of children/babies. All of the mom's thought (wisely) to buy larger clothes. Unfortunately, It took forever for my son to grow into them.
So, just my FYI for you.
Also, to anyone who has a small baby, a friend bought premie diapers after my son was born and my son wore those for quite a while. The size 1/newborn were too too big for him. She had an apiphany and it worked wonders for us!

[Quartercentury]

Lily and Pamela, those are lovely ultrasound shots. I especially like Pamela's baby's hand. I was so amazed to see such perfectly formed little fingers at my 12 week scan. Wee baby hands! Oh so cute!

I have to confess to already having bought some 0-3 month things... Christmas themed and on the clearance rack for £2. I couldn't help myself. But I am making it clear to family that bigger things are better! FH and I were both over 8 lbs when we were born, so we're not expecting a tiny baby.

And because my friend says I am looking obviously pregnant (I don't think I believe her... especially since the other pregnant woman in my department (who's expecting twins in September!) says I don't look pregnant at all), here's a new belly shot set:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v448/quartercentury/October%202006%20Pumpkin/4to14.jpg

No maternity clothes yet (you can see that I am a big fan of pajamas instead), but I am using the rubber band trick today. Next week I may have to break out the under-bump jeans...

[Mrs-Mac]

Things are going well here. I'm still dealing with heartbrun and indigestion, which makes eating more of a chore than anything else right now. :( I just keep waiting to start to feel better. Hope I don't have to wait too much longer!!

QOTD on parenthood - I think one of the things I'm most excited about is seeing my DH as a father. And also I can't wait to experience first-hand the overwhelming love for thier child people talk about.

QOTD backsleeping - I'm haven't worried about it yet. I sleep on my back quite a bit still. I toss and turn all night and don't stay in one position too long or my back starts to hurt.

Bumpers - I'm not a RO, but like Pamela, I also made my baby bedding. I made a quilt and bedskirt so far. I had planned on making a bumper, but I haven't gotten around to it yet. If I actually make it or not may be the deciding factor if I have one!

Congrats to JeanT and Lily on your GIRLS!! How exciting!

Maplekitty I love both of the bedding collections!! The cirus stuff is really cute!

Quartercentury Great belly shots. You've popped, but at the same time, you are still so little!!

Lawgirl Very cute pic of you (and your belly) and your new neice!!

Jenzen Gabe is so cute!!

emermel Glad everything is okay!!

To everyone else that I am missing, hope you are all doing well!!

[Jenzen01]

Wow, I love seeing the ultrasound pics! It's helping me imagine what baby looks like right now. :)

Pamela - Those are great pics of baby! I also like your toile pattern, and I'm not the greatest fan of toile.

Lawgirl - That was a great pic of you and the baby. Your belly is cute, too. :)

QC - You're definitely growing! Looking good!

maplekitty - That nautical bedding is beautiful! I would think you could use that for a girl, too.

0-3 month clothes - Personally, I would only buy one or two pieces that you really like. We got A LOT of small sizes at the shower, and then Gabe was out of them within weeks. He was 8 lbs, 8 oz at birth, and he gained weight quickly. Oh, and if you can get hand-me-downs, take them! We had bags of stuff from a guy at work, so that worked out nicely.

I felt the baby move a bunch yesterday. I kept getting little kicks on my belly during the afternoon. That's the best feeling in the world. :)

[lawgirl4]

Wow, 16 weeks today! no time to take belly pics - I was running late today! will update with new pics tomorrow. :)

emermel - glad to hear that you guys found a house, and I am glad that the baby is doing fine.

lily, that u/s photo is great! don't feel guilty about the coffee drink! one every now and then is totally fine!

sua - hope we like our pillows! mine shipped yesterday... I'll be sure to give a report on it! Oh, and hmdelf, it was $30 with $1 shipping and no tax. Not bad!

pamela - I have lots of baby clothes that my mom made for me - some are even "unisex" so I can't wait to use them too! Thanks for posting the "girl" u/s photo - so many people post the "boy parts" but I don't think I've ever seen a girl shot! She looks so big in the first photo!

qc - you're getting there! definitely growing nicely :)

mrs mac - hope you feel better soon! heartburn sucks!

thanks to everyone who posted advice about baby clothing sizes - what good points you all made! no more 0-3 months purchasing for us!

edited to add - my own exciting news! we closed on the apartment adjacent to ours yesterday! so exciting. and bizarre to realize that we own both now! we're scheduling the "floor guys" to sand and refinish the hardwood floors in the new unit today, and then we'll schedule a cleaning service to thoroughly scour the entire place. DH and I are going to sit down this weekend and think about where we want to break through to create the baby's room, and then we will hopefully meet with our architects next week. We're basically creating the baby's room from the new apartment, and then we will rent the rest of the new apartment (it will wind up being about 1200 square feet - still pretty big) for at least 1 year.

[nutter13]

Hi,

It's been awhile since I last checked in...

Congrats jeant and lily and your girls!

jeant great job on the interview, caught it on TiVo that evening :)

Looking forward to: seeing my DD as a big sister :)

Pictures: love looking at what everyone else is planning on buying, as a RO I'm particularly interested in what other RO's are planning on buying re: double strollers

Sleeping on back: not too worried about it at this point, but making a conscious effort to lay on my side, especially since last time my heart would start pounding away anytime I layed on my back.

Bumpers: Never used any, but I do like the idea of the breathable ones. I may have to look into that. DD is now in a twin bed.

0-3 month clothes: We didn't buy many, we got tons at our showers. I think we may have bought some sleepers b/c we ended up getting a lot of outfits that we never used. I think DD wore mainly onesies with little pants the first few months is was so much easier.

I'm doing pretty good. We did end up renting a doppler but only for 90 days to get me past this stage of feeling better/not feeling the baby move yet.

My department at work knows but I have yet to tell the CEO and rest of the 30 people in the office, my boss talked to me yesterday and asked what my plans were. I had hoped to wait until my next appt. in 2 weeks but by then I'll be almost 17 weeks and as a RO I find myself showing a lot earlier this time around and just don't think I'll be able to hide it that much longer. Some days I don't feel like I'm showing much and it's more like my uterus is just pushing my belly fat up and out more :) I guess it also depends on what I'm wearing.

Hope all is well with everyone :)

[pickle]

Hi everyone...

I've been bad about posting, as I've been crazy busy lately, but have been reading along to keep up with all of you! Let me see if I can hit all the QOTDs:

QOTD- Looking Forward To: seeing what he looks like! It's so hard not to be able to picture his little face, you know? And the holidays. I think it will be so much fun to share Halloween, Christmas, etc. with our little guy.

QOTD- bumpers: I've been think I probably will get them, just because I think they are so cute! We'll see how long they last.

QOTD- back sleeping: I'm generally a side-sleeper anyway, so it hasn't been too much of an issue. I'm not really worried about it if I do wake up on my back as I move around so much that I'm sure I don't stay in that position for long.

Congrats on your closing, lawgirl!

Jenzen, very cool that you are feeling the baby move so much.

Mrs-Mac, I've been getting heartburn lately too. It sucks...now I can't lay on the couch immediately after eating! ;)

QC, I can definitely see a bit of a bump there! And I'm with you...pj pants are my BFF. :)

maplekitty, OMG I am in LOVE with that boy bedding!! Where did you find it? I've been thinking along the same nautical lines, but most of what I've found is a little too "cartoon-ish" for my taste. But that is super-cute! (I just need to convince J that the boy does not need to have a Cubs themed nursery now. LOL)

Pamela, great u/s pics! And how nice that she was much more cooperative this time. I love the pink toile, too. If we were having a girl that was what I was thinking of... I'm impressed with your sewing skills--I can barely sew on a button, let alone make crib bedding!

Lily, that frappucino is sounding pretty good to me right now too! Don't feel guilty, it's not like you're having six of them every day.

Congrats to everyone who had good appointments recently. Isn't that always such a relief??

[maplekitty]

maplekitty, OMG I am in LOVE with that boy bedding!! Where did you find it? I've been thinking along the same nautical lines, but most of what I've found is a little too "cartoon-ish" for my taste. But that is super-cute! (I just need to convince J that the boy does not need to have a Cubs themed nursery now. LOL)



Yup, that's exactly what I was thinking about all teh nautical themed stuff i was finding too. Either too cartoony, or too many dark colours, because i want the baby's room to be light and airy.

It's a Layla Grace (http://www.laylagrayce.com/detail.aspx?ID=3049) pattern, so...$$$ - ah well!

[marathongirl]

lawgirl - congrats on the closing!

pamela - nice u/s pic! I guess the techs know what they're looking at - I never would have guessed 3 little lines as 'girl parts'.

qc - that's a cute bump you've got growing!

Mrs-mac - yuck, heartburn! Luckily I was in my third tri w/ DD before it got really bad. I hope I can avoid it this time around.

maplekitty - that's some beautiful bedding you've got picked! So many choices.....

nutter - as far as double strollers, I've been looking at one made by BabyTrend. I think it's called the Sit'n'Stand. DD won't ride in a stroller for love or money, so I'm still not sure what I'm going to do.

jenzen - yeah for baby moving!

lily - don't stress about the coffee! Once in a while is fine. (I still drink coffee every morning - I'd never make it through the day chasing DD around. But I make it 50% regular/50% decaf. I'm certainly not saying that b/c I do it means it's OK, just my $0.02 :) )

Hello to everyone else! Hope you're all doing well!

[bunnybeth]

Had my appt yesterday, and all went well. When she first put the doppler on my belly, the h/b was so slow, which was because it was mine! A few seconds later, she found the baby's which sounded about twice as fast, and was a little bit louder than last time. They don't want to do my big u/s until I'm 20 weeks, so I won't schedule that until my next appt, and it will be the first full week of June. Will I be the last one here doing the big u/s???

My next OB appointment is May 16

I was going to announce my pregnancy at work today, but I forgot that my boss is out on vacation until next Wednesday, and I want to tell her first. So, another week it is.

------

Jenzen Sheep is a really cute theme.

lawgirl You, your belly, and most especially your niece all look really cute. :)

Ericka Glad you had nice, uneventful appointments.

jenniferlynnne Is there any reason why you want to do the AFP? It just sounds to me from your post that you really don't want to do it. It is a tough decision though!

emermel What a scary experience, glad you and the baby are fine. I hate that "whatever is meant to be will be" saying for such situations. That certainly wouldn't comfort me when freaking out.

Lily Very cute baby stuff, I especially love the pink bunnies. (Can you tell I have a thing for bunnies?) I get a "Friday morning treat" coffee every week myself, and don't feel too bad about it. Of course, since it's every week, I go with a small most times.

MidwesternGal Glad to hear you had a good appt, and got your singleton confirmation.

Pamela What bedding are you making? I was thinking about making some of my own as well, but maybe just the dust ruffle and valance and buying solid sheets, etc. (Love your fabric!)

QC I'd say you look pregnant for you, but normal compared to most women. Cute bump progression!

QOTD back sleeping From what I've heard, as long as it doesn't make you uncomfortable, it should be fine, so I haven't been trying not to yet... due to pregnancy. (However, I tend to snore when on my back, so DH usually rolls me over when I wake him up. ;) ) Can't sleep on my belly anymore though.

[Sua]

Maplekitty - ITA with pickle, that sailboat bedding is adorable!! I didnt follow the link, but if you can buy parts of the set separately, you could pair a few key pieces with some plain (and less expensive) bedding. I did that with my son's nursery, I thought that most of the pieces beyond the bumper and pillow were too busy so I made a seersucker dust ruffle, basket liners and changing table cover.

Pickle - You could pair the Cubs theme with sailboats! Some cool shots from Wrigley of sailboats on the lake would make cool prints for the wall of a sailboat room. Of course, I am a big Cubs fan, so I like your husband's choice too. :p

Nutter - I am going to skip the double stroller, I hope. I'll try to sling the new baby for as long as possible and if we need a stroller, my son can ride in it. If it becomes necessary to reconsider my choice later, I'll be hitting you up for your recs!

I wanted to add to the clothing purchasing discussion that I found the snap up the front or zip up the front styles to be best for newborns (like the ones Lily purchased. It is so upsetting to pull tight necked clothing over a wobbly necked infant. I also liked the gown-type garments for early on. For the first couple of weeks the babies stay in a fetal position most of the time, so it was hard to keep their legs in legged garments. Now that I've said that, I bet it isnt easy to find snap-up, sack bottomed baby garments, they are usually one or the other. Oh well, trying to be helpful. :rolleyes:

Take care all!

[jbemommy]

I just saw the Gerber commercial that says the 300 millionth American will be born in October! I wonder if they'll determine which baby is the 300 millionth one?

nutter I've been doing a lot of research about double strollers. It's very confusing, it seems every rating website has a different opinion. We don't have any baby gear places around here other than Babys R Us, so my in-person experience is going to be limited. I did look at the Combi one there, and it seems ok, other than not sitting fully upright. I'm leaning toward the Maclaren. I do plan on having the baby in the Bjorn as long as possible so we can make do with just a single stroller for a while.

[Jenzen01]

nutter - We inherited a lightly-used double-stroller from a family I work with. It's the Jeep stroller. I haven't looked at it much because I had DH put it away after I miscarried last fall. I guess it's time to pull it out soon. :) The front seat has a little steering wheel, but that's about as much detail as I've absorbed.

Another question for ROs: Have you switched DC1 to a regular bed yet? If not, what are your plans? We're probably going to switch Gabe this summer. We're thinking of doing a fish theme in his new room. I haven't looked at bedding yet. We're just going to put the full-size mattress, which is already in that room, down on the floor for the time being.

[She-Ra]

Double strollers This makes my head spin more than buying the first one! We have an Inglesina Zippy, which I love, so I am leaning a bit towards the swift. I'd like to think I can get away with just slinging the baby, but I didn't do it as much with DS in the fall/winter as spring/summer.

Crib DS just turned 2 & is still happy in his crib. He's never tried getting out & will yell for us to get him, so I'm not to anxious to put him in a BB bed. We are moving in 2 weeks, and while it would be easier to make the switch then, so I can start setting up the nursery, I think it would be way to much change for him.

I've got 8 months plus before I need a crib. We used a moses basket in/by our bed & a pack n play in the family room for the first 3 months last time, so I might not push until late summer/fall..

[nutter13]

Double Stroller We have a Graco carseat, but with DD we used it in the Combi stroller and it worked just fine. So I guess this limits us to either a Graco or Combi double stroller. Now we have to decide, do we want a side-by-side or a tandem (one in front, one in back). DH is leaning towards the tandem. I have also thought about a sit-and-stand but DD still likes to ride in her stroller and sometimes when she fights us in taking a nap we'll put her in and lay the seat back and she will sleep in the stroller. So I think we are definitely going to be needing one....now if only we could decide which one :confused:

Crib we just bought a twin bed for DD (who just turned 2) and she is doing great. She has actually been sleeping on a mattress on the floor since she was 15 months (she hated the crib) with a guardrail on one side (we have a gate at her door so there's no escaping in the middle of the night :) ) Since she was no longer rolling off the mattress we figured it was time to move on up to a twin bed.

[Pamela]

Lily, don't feel guilty about drinking some cofee...I ate a bunch of chocolate to try and wind my baby up!

Maplekitty, I love that sailboat/lighthouse bedding!

Quartercentury, its amazing some of the details you can see in the u/s isn't it?! Your progression looks great! I'll bet you feel/look really pregnant to you, but I don't think anyone would be able to tell, especially through clothes.

Jenzen, thanks! I love toile and really really wanted to do pink toile for the nursery, but I had a really hard time finding it in pink for some reason.

lawgirl, my mom told me that she has all of my old baby clothes still (!!), so I'll be getting them. Congrats on closing on the apartment! Will it be a huge major remodel to add a nursery from this one on to yours?

Pickle, don't be too impressed by my sewing skills yet, I still need to pick a pattern and then actually do it still! But my mom sews too, and she's really awesome, so that'll be a help.

Bunnybeth, I hope the time until your big u/s passes quickly for you! I'm planning to use the pink toile to make the bumper, dust ruffle, a small quilt and some sort of curtain or valance for the window. I'll just by plain pink and white sheets (way too expensive and will use too much material if I use the toile for that). I'm also going to use it to make a boppy cover and one of those diaper stacker things, and probably anything else I can think of. I'll be sure to post pics, though I'm in no rush and it'll be a while still.

Sua, so true that its much easier to dress wobbly newborns in things that don't have to go over their heads. At the hospital where I work our newborn shirts are wrap style and they are so much nicer to use than the ones at the other hospitals.


I had an appointment with my OB today. She still wants me to stay home from work for another 4 weeks or so, but I'm having weekly appointments so we'll see. She did say that I can get up and move around and go out some, just as long as I don't overdo it and stay mostly off my feet. I'm not sure if the meds from the peri are helpful or not, its too soon to say, but I do know that if I keep taking them I'm only taking them before bed because they bump my pulse Way up and make me dizzy. So she told me about her preferred drug for me and told me to go home and research it and decide if I want to try it (haha, she loves that I'm a nurse).

[emermel]

Double stroller: I think that I am going to try a sling for a while (I didn't use one with DD). BUT, we will probably end up getting the Joovy Caboose. My SIL has one and she seems to like it.

Big bed: yep...we made the switch about a month ago now. So far so good. DD was about 27 months

[Bubeleh]

Hi Ladies, hope everyone is have a great Thursday!

Pamela: Sorry to hear that you are stuck home for another 4 weeks. Hopefully the time will pass quickly.

Bunnybeth You will be surprised how quickly the time flies. I scheduled my Big U/s a month ago and I really thought time would drag, but now its next Tuesday. Life keeps you busy especially if you work.

Maplekitty: The Sailboat pattern is great! My Sister did her guest bathroom in that motif and it looks amazing. Lighthouses and everything.

I had a lot of baby related things going on today. I went in for the AFP4 (my dr. calls it the Quad screening) they took 2 vials of blood, not too bad.

After that I walked over to the admitting office. They recommend you pre-register at the hospital prior to starting your 5th month :eek: . According to 1 book that is next week and according to another it was this week. So I figured since I was there anyway I would do it today. My Dr. office is across the parking lot from the hospital, very convenient.

From there I walked down the hall to the baby class office and registered for 7 different classes. Since I live near L.A. these classes fill up quickly and they recommend also registering prior to the 5th month. Seems crazy, but after I got put on a waiting list for the "mommy & me" class when I called in March I decided I would follow everyone's time lines so I wouldn't miss out. So my first class is in June and they go all the way until 2 1/2 weeks before my due date.

[kenswife]

Hi everyone...

I have some responses to some of the recent QOTDs. I feel like I miss so much in here sometimes.

Double Strollers - We are definitely going to need one. I thought about getting a jogger but decided against it because I really wanted something for when the baby is little and can't hold it's head up enough for a stroller like that. I think I've decided to go with the Graco Duoglider travel system. That way it'll work at every stage of the game.

"Big Bed" - We have no clue what we'll do with this one. I really don't think DD2 will be big enough when the new baby comes to be out of a crib. But at the same time, I hate to buy a second crib. I'll probably just suck it up and do it though since I would lay awake at night panicking about her falling out of the toddler bed.

Bumpers - Both times I got really cute crib bedding and both times the bumper was off in literally weeks. The second time because we bought a crib with wide wooden slats so the bumper ties didn't reach around. It was driving us crazy so we took them off. We didn't use blankets with either of the kids until they were about 8 months. DD2 sleeps will a blanket and a "buddy" (stuffed animal). I do check on her before I go to bed though to make sure everything is where it should be. :)

Bedding - If it's a girl we'll find some plain bedding - just a crib sheet and crib skirt. I've had my share of girl bedding - I actually tend to like simple much better. If it's a boy I had already bought Wendy B. bedding before I knew DD2 was a girl. It's pale blue, yellow and a touch of white. It's totally simple which is perfect for me. I think I'm more excited about buying little boy clothes if I have a boy anyway! haha.

Clothes - I agree with everyone that less of the little clothes is better. I got sooooooo many 0-3 months clothing for both of them and half of them STILL have tags on them, even from my *almost* 6 year old! Although my motto is the old, "do as I say, not as I do". When I find out the gender, I find it absolutely IRRESISTABLE to go and buy the tiny clothes. I even plan on going to Babies R Us shortly after my u/s next Friday!

Things are good here. I feel kind of guilty b/c I've had such an uneventful, feel-good pregnancy thus far. I am enjoying it though. I have felt some shooting pains in my cervix. But since that happened continuously with my DD2, I've thought nothing of it - just baby getting bigger (and heavier....haha).

Hope everyone's doing well. This pregnancy is FLYING by!

[MichelleRenee]

Bunnybeth, chances are I will be the last one to get my big u/s. I think I will be the last to do everything. I considered switching to the November thread just because I feel so far behind everyone here.:o

I bought some maternity clothes today. Kohl's has 45-55% off of all of theirs so I got a pretty good deal. I finally found a regular pair of jean shorts that isn't SUPER short or those stupid knee length ones. And they fit well. I never knew I could be so happy just to put on a pair of shorts that fit me!

And I think I am the last EDD in here, so as of tomorrow everyone in this thread is in the second trimester!! Yippee!

[Quartercentury]

Thanks for the belly compliments, ladies. :)

Welcome to the second trimester, MichelleRenee!!!

Will I be the last one here doing the big u/s???

I'm not sure that we'll use the "big u/s" to find out the sex, but I won't have the big 20 week ultrasound (or the "anomoly scan" as they call it here) until I am 21 weeks, so that FH will be back from China. That will be the week of June 11th. So you might not be the last one!

[marathongirl]

Since we're posting pics of bedding, this is the quilt I made DD for when we move her to a big girl bed. It's not finished in this pic, but you get the idea.
http://images1.snapfish.com/346945464%7Ffp337%3Enu%3D3239%3E645%3E638%3EWSNRCG %3D32333999%3A%3B473nu0mrj

As far as moving her to a big bed, I have no idea what we're going to do. She didn't start sleeping through the night until 2 months ago so I really hesitate to change anything. I mean I was up with her 2-4 times a night EVERY night and I don't want to start that again by changing her environment. She seems perfectly happy in her crib and does not climb out. So we're just going to wait for now and see what happens in 2-3 months.

MichelleRenee - yeah for the second tri!!!

kenswife - I know what you mean about feeling guilty with easy pregnancies. This time around is really just as good as the last - no m/s, still exercising, decent energy. And I had to see 2 of my friends go through terrible m/s!

jenzen - I like the idea of putting the mattress on the floor when we do move Claire. She is a very active sleeper and I don't want her constantly falling out of bed.

--------------

Completely non-baby related question - do you ladies or any of your spouses own your own business? It is my dream to own my own business and a near-perfect opportunity fell into my lap last night. Just wondering what your thoughts were. Thanks!

[Nigellas]

Michelle, I'm only 3 days ahead of you, so I definitely understand how you feel. Congratulations on getting to the 2nd tri though! (And FWIW, my doc considers 13 weeks the 2nd tri, so in her book you've been there all week!) :D

Marathon- BEAUTIFUL quilt! I know how to sew, but making a quilt really intimidates me- Is it difficult or just time-consuming?

----------

I got my Doppler last week and this kid hates it- it’s kind of funny. When we were at our last apt the doctor pointed out the baby kicking at the doppler, and every time I try it at home I hear a few good second of HB followed by a big *thump* from the kick and then the HB fades at the baby “swims” away. Hehe!

[nutter13]

Quick question--for those of you who have rented dopplers, how often do you use it?

[Bubeleh]

Michele: Don't leave, there's company there at the end of the month. This way you get a view into your coming weeks and will be prepared for anything ;) Congrats on making it to the 2 tri!

QC: Here in Southern Cali they actually call it a Fetal well-being check. Funny how its so widely referred to as the BIG U/S.

Marathon Girl: Love the quilt, very girly! What kind of opportunity? My husband is partners in a start-up and let me tell you it takes a whole lot of work that first couple years. As long as you are passionate about the work and feel you will the energy for the commitment, I would go for it!

Nigellas Maybe you're DC just has some of privacy issues and wants to be hidden for awhile. Hopefully that doesn't happen with the u/s.

[Nigellas]

Quick question--for those of you who have rented dopplers, how often do you use it?

I only use mine when I'm feeling nervous (maybe overy 3-4 days or so) mostly because the kid seems to hate it and I don't want to bug her/im too much - just a little. :p

[lawgirl4]

Forgot to upload my latest photos so I'll have to post them this weekend!

*****************************

bubeleh - so cool that you got started on hospital registration already!

michellerenee - congrats on reaching the 2nd trimester!

marathongirl - beautiful quilt! you have a lucky daughter! :) My husband owns the family business - it's challenging (but what job isn't!) but extremely rewarding as well. My sister owns her own business too - she started it from scratch, and it is definitely a learning process. What's the nature of your opportunity?

pamela - sounds like we have similar moms! mine still has tons of our baby clothes too.

[jenniferlynne]

Hi everyone. Thanks for your input on the AFP. I think I'm going to go ahead and do it. Hopefully it'll all come back negative, and that way if I do have elevated HCG at least I'll know about it. I guess it's safer to be followed a little more closely even if it's not necessary.

Double Strollers: I've been thinking about this already but I'm still not sure what I'll do. I loved my slings/Bjorn last time, so for walks, I'm sure I'll use them a lot. But the big convenience of a newborn is being able to keep them in their car seat, in case they fall asleep in the car, and just put them in the stroller that way. So, if I do get a double stroller, I'll want one that can take an infant seat. The problem, though, is that my son, who JUST turned two, is enormous for his age--37 lbs. already!--and many double strollers only have a 40 lb. per seat weight capacity. I like the idea of a Sit N Stand, too, since my son doesn't always want to stay in his stroller.

Big Bed: I really don't want to transition DS to a big boy bed yet. Now I can put him in his crib awake and leave, and he goes right to sleep, but if he could get out of bed--forget it! Maybe in six months it'll be a different story. Plus the baby will be in our room for 3-4 months or so in a co-sleeper, so that gives us a little more time.

Bumpers: I loved our bumper, and believe it or not, it's still in my son's crib. I never worried about him using it to climb out because, 1) it's not very thick and so squishes down a lot, and 2) he still sleeps in a sleep sack so he can't raise his leg high enough to climb out (that's deliberate! :) ). I really love the bumper because it keeps his pacifiers and toys in, too. I never worried about it and SIDS because he always slept on a positioner that kept him in one place, far away from the bumpers.

Bedding: I haven't even thought about this yet! The baby will have to share a room with DS, most likely, so we'll have to go with something gender neutral. Unless it's a girl, I guess

0-3 month clothes: As others have said, you probably won't need very many of these. DS was born big and grew VERY quickly, so he wore 0-3 mos. for maybe three weeks to a month at most. However, he lived in those cotton zipper sleepers and my favorite ones were from Target--the Circo brand. They only go up to 12 months, though, and I was so sad when he outgrew them!

[MidwesternGal]

Hello all!!

I have a question: Who here is feeling the baby kick/move? Am I the only one who isn't? I'll be 17 weeks tomorrow. I have been going over our last appointment in our head, and I know the baby moved up higher, under my belly button, so it took a while to hear the HB. . . . then later on, the doctor asked if I felt him/her kicking yet, and I said no, and she made a small face (not necessearily bad, but. . . now that I've been dwelling. . . I'm worried).

Anyway, I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

[maplekitty]

I have a question: Who here is feeling the baby kick/move? Am I the only one who isn't?

No worries, I havn't felt anything yet either and I'm 17 weeks today :(
I just chalk it up to my "extra padding". Sometimes I try to feel around on my abdomen and push on my abdomen under my belly button to see if i can feel anything - but nope. As much as I can't wait to feel it, I guess we should appreciate for as long as we can not being kicked and poked all day long.

[bunnybeth]

I've now gone from having an aversion to water to seriously craving it all the time. After I finish up with CC, I'm going to buy another ice cold 24 oz'er. :D

The trip from Chicago to St Louis for a wedding is this weekend. I'm so not looking forward to getting up before 5am tomorrow or driving so much. Hopefully I won't fall asleep during the reception!

Pamela That sounds like it'll be cute. Using plain sheets will break up the busy-ness of all that pattern anyways. Making a boppy cover is a good idea- do they sell patterns for that? I'm planning on starting my sewing, oh about June or so. I need plenty of procrastination time. ;) Hope you don't get too bored in your weeks of rest, but at least you can get up some which is good.

Bubeleh Very true, when I first got pg I thought getting past the first trimester would be endless, but now here I am. Just have to keep on keeping busy. Wow, I didn't know places would sign you up for classes this early. I'm going to have to check into what my hospital does soon.

MichelleRenee I think we're quite similiar, since my EDD is just 2 days before you. I know some end-of-monthers join both month threads, but I barely have time to keep up with this one right now. :)

QC I'm sure your FH appreciates you waiting for him to be there, though I'd be so impatient in that situation.

MarathonGirl Very pretty quilt! I love looking through all the quilting fabrics when I'm at fabric stores, I just love all those tiny patterns.

Nigellas Soon, the baby will have no place to "run" to when you pull out the doppler... ;) though the kicks could still come.

Feeling baby move Not yet, but I'm still just over 14 weeks.

[lawgirl4]

midwesterngal - I haven't felt anything yet either, and I'm 16w1d today. I really think this is still very early. I've heard that most 1st time moms don't feel anything until after 20 weeks. Keep in mind that we have a lot of "repeat offenders" (i.e. 2nd or 3rd time moms) on this thread and they are far more likely to feel movement earlier. A week or 2 ago I was reading the sept mommies thread and not all of them had felt movement at that point either - so I wouldn't be worried.

plus, for us first time moms, I think those early, early sensations may simply go by undetected! I feel so many things in my abdomen now - who knows what is what! so in reality, you may have felt "something" but you wouldn't necessarily know it!

I do have a dr's appt on tuesday and I will ask my OB for her input. But *everything* I have read says that 18-20 weeks is the earliest to expect to feel distinct movement.

[Pamela]

Bubleleh, wow, five months seems so early to be pre-registering! I hope that means that the next four will fly by!

Marathongirl, that quilt is gorgeous! I love the colours you used. Quilting is so addictive, I have about a million projects I'd love to be working on right now!

Midwesterngal, I'm sure the face your doctor made wasn't because she thought it was bad/abnormal that you haven't felt movement yet, probably it meant more like, "Thats a bummer, its neat to feel kicks!"

Maplekitty, thats funny you push on your belly too! Sometimes when I feel a kick, I'll push on my tummy there and she'll kick back! Its probably just coincidence, but I like to think we're 'playing' :p

Bunnybeth, thanks! I'm really looking forward to making all this stuff. I don't know if they sell patterns for boppy covers, but I plan to buy a plain boppy and then either just make a cover or else buy an inexpensive one and copy it.


Well, so much for the meds from the peri. I only took two of them total, but they made my heart race too much and made me really dizzy and then last night I fainted :rolleyes: I'm fine though. I was standing there minding my own business and suddenly started to feel dizzy, but not that bad, and then I just kind of crumpled to the floor. Don't think I hit it hard or anything though. Scared my dh I think. So I'm not taking them anymore. Guess I'll start researching that other med now.

17week 2day pic

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y145/MrsPamela/Baby/17wks2days.jpg

And my progression so far

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y145/MrsPamela/Baby/progressionto17.jpg

QOTD, who's feeling the baby?, I guess I'm a bit odd (and lucky!) since I was about 14 1/2 weeks the first time I knew I for sure felt her move. She's pretty inconsisnt still, some days I'll get kicked all day and then others I don't feel much. I can tell she's getting bigger by her kicks though!

[lawgirl4]

QOTD - as I mentioned, I haven't felt anything yet! I will admit I've felt a few "sensations" that made me think "well, possibly" but honestly, I have no idea!

[Bubeleh]

Midwesterngal: I'll be 18 weeks this weekend and I haven't felt a thing yet. Hang in there I think my Dr. said anytime before 22 weeks is normal.

bunnybeth: It is super early to register and I would think most places would not be ready. I just think its becuase of where I live. LA is notorious for huge waiting lists and lines for anything. I heard a rumor that they assign priority rooms to those who register by the recommended date, but that's probably just wishful thinking.

Pamela Hope you feel better soon. Those pills sound bad.

[maplekitty]

my new picture

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid205/p3a86c2522c603c8f798291cddf1d2f05/ef3bb193.jpg

And threadmistress, you can use this progression pic on the first page :)

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid205/pd7217f9ec9e0a42b92e37e8b5e825058/ef3baf4c.jpg

[Nigellas]

QOTD – I’m not sure… The last few days I’ve felt something, but I’m hesitant to call it the baby. It kind of feels soft and quick, like a goldfish bumping against my inside tummy. Any 2nd time moms care to share what it feels like?

[dzmattie]

QOTD - Movements - for the last week I have felt some movement - mainly right when I lay down to fall asleep. It isn't forceful or really distinct but I feel flutters...love the goldfish bumping example!! Sometimes I am wondering if it is gas or the baby - lately though I think it is certainly baby! The movements last week were more on my right hand side but this week have moved more toward the middle and are about half way below my bellybutton...and I am more sure this is the baby since that is where my OB heard the heartbeat on Wednesday.:D

[MichelleRenee]

I have to make this quick because I am so tired.

I actually OUTGREW my maternity jeans today. Same size/brand as my khakis, but I still have room in those. WTH??

I am pretty sure I have felt Reesie a couple times. It feels like a gas bubble, but it's in a place where I've never felt a gas bubble before. Here's what my sister says to do to know what it feels like... take a cotton ball and throw it at your belly. It feels just like that but on the inside.

And don't worry... I'm not actually going to leave this thread! And I certainly don't have time to join a second thread! We October moms are in it for the long haul!! (which is 1/3 of the way over, BTW... as far as being PG!)

Have a good weekend everyone!!

[Michelle]

I just wanted to stop by and say that we got an ultrasound today and got to see our baby! It's so exciting to see baby and the fact that it looks like a baby now instead of a peanut. I'm thinking that we have a future gymnast here because baby was moving and turning like crazy! It's just so amazing to think that this is going on in my body right now, ya know?

I'll scan an ultrasound picture this weekend and post it (I'm too tired now). We were excited to find out that we're having a baby Girl! :D

Hope everybody has a good weekend! :)

[maplekitty]

Michelle congrats on the girl news!! We need some more boys, there is a huge girl epidemic in there! :D

[marathongirl]

michelle - congrats on your girl!!! Are all the boys in hiding?

maplekitty - you look great! I really like the shirt you're wearing in the pics - where did you get it? It just looks comfy.

nigellas - that's so funny your little ones swims away from the doppler! Quilting is actually easier than I thought, but VERY addictive once you get going.

pamela - cute baby bump you've got going!

lawgirl - hope your renovations go smoothly and quickly!

Doppler usage - I didn't rent one this time, but with DD I used it about every other day for 3-4 weeks, then it sat on the shelf unused for about 3 months until I remembered to return it :rolleyes: .

baby movement - with DD, I was 19w 4d before I could say with any certainty that I felt something. And even then, it wasn't every day. I may have felt flutters before that, but really don't remember and probably chalked it up to gas since I didn't know what I was looking for. This time, I've been feeling flutters for about a week so far and I'm 18 weeks today.

what it feels like - maybe like a small fish swimming around. Or gas bubbles, but the bubbles are in a place where you haven't felt them before. I like the cotton ball story that someone posted - that's pretty accurate!

Gotta go - DD is awake and not happy. Rough night!

[Sua]

Michelle - Congrats on your active, healthy baby girl!!

Pamela - Cute belly! Wow, so glad you werent hurt when you fainted! That must have been scary. I forgot to say this before, but I love the fabric you ordered, I cant wait to see the results! That will make an adorable nursery for your little girl!

maplekitty - You look great!!

Nigellas - I really cant think of a more accurate (or adorable) way to describe how the baby feels right now than your goldfish example. It is right on!

QOTD :I have been feeling small flutters for a couple of weeks now, mostly at bedtime. I am not feeling distinct kicks yet, just ripples. I didnt feel my son move until almost 23 weeks. But, once I felt it, then I was questioning whether I had felt it earlier and just didnt know it. My placenta was anterior last time and made it harder to feel movement.

Take care all! :D

[Bubeleh]

Michelle Congrats on your girl! So exciting that they could see her that early!

[maplekitty]

maplekitty - you look great! I really like the shirt you're wearing in the pics - where did you get it? It just looks comfy.



oh, i don't know if you'd find it in the states. It's from a local "everything" store here in my town called "Superstore".
It *is* very comfy!! I don't know how long it's going to last for the pictures though, lol...it's stretchy, but I don't think stretchy enough to last me until 40 weeks ;)

[MidwesternGal]

Michelle--Congrats on the girl!!

Well, I'm here to vent. The "fight" with the ILs has begun. Sigh. I knew this would happen. My FIL called this morning because he wanted to know how I was feeling (I was really sick yesterday) and to ask if I could think of anything else I wanted them to look for, second-hand (they're big garage salers!). I said maybe they could look for an exer-saucer. He asked about crib, highchair, stroller, etc. and I said that we wanted all of that new. (Previously, I had told them we planned to register for what *we* wanted and they could buy it off the registry).

Well, he called back an hour later and he and MIL went and BOUGHT us a whole travel system (car seat and stroller)! Now, I'm not trying to sound ungrateful, because we certainly appreciate them wanting to buy us things for the baby. . . . . but um, could we at least have a SAY in what *our* child uses?? FIL has all ready bought us a Harley Davidson power wheels (which I am so against, but that's another story), and now they bought a VERY important, very big item without even asking us what brand we'd like or anything!

So I sent an email out to ILs, my parents, and my sister saying that DH and I are *more* than happy to go out shopping with people who want to buy things before the registry is up, and we'd look for items that are to both parties "mutual agreement."

Sigh. I knew this was going to happen. My parents offered to buy us the crib/furniture set (that WE picked out), so now ILs think they need to "up" my family. UGH! This is why I wanted to wait to have a child!!

DH is at work right now, he will be home in a coupel of hours. I wonder what he'll think of this.

Thanks for letting me vent ladies, I appreciate it! --Oh, and I know this doesn't sound *that* bad, but you need to know my ILs--they are very overbearing and do not listen well, and this is just setting us up for like, 20 years of fights regarding a child that isn't theirs.

[She-Ra]

I'm sorrymidwesterngal, but they seem pushy. You need to tell your MIL no thanks on the car seat. You have no way of knowing if it was in a car accident(even minor) if it is used.

[dzmattie]

Midwesterngirl - is the carseat/travel system from a garage sale or new? Either way I would be VERY upset about that too and you should certainly have a case if it is used for the reasons that She-Ra posted....even if it was new I would want to buy the one I wanted and not one that was picked for me. Ugh - that is really tough....hopefully your DH will have a solution?

[maplekitty]

midwesterngirl - maybe you can turn this around and say "wow that's a great deal you got. We can keep that one at your place, so we don't have to pack one up in the car when we come visit you, and you can have a carseat for your car for when we go on outting from your house." That way they still feel excited and proud about their purchase, and you still get a *new* one for everyday use. My IL's are the same and MIL is always calling from garage sales and swap meets with things she's found. I havn't found a polite way of telling ehr we want those things new, since SIL was so laid back about recieving used things and using them with her new baby. I feel you pain!

[jeant]

I promised to post if I ever found a maternity lap suit. This might be it:

http://www.becomingmommy.com/maternity-clothes/Swimwear/Maternity


This store also has a long black skirt, the only thing I need to get through summer, but it's $74. Eek.

More in a bit.

[jeant]

On the topic of maternity clothes ... I have been having a hard time finding anything good, so any advice any of you have is appreciated. Where did you find the best maternity clothes -- specifically, the best tailored/plain stuff? (Like the stuff Lands End sells for non-maternity clothes -- that type of stuff).

I'm a little stuck because I look bad in short skirts and capri/cropped pants. That $74 number is so far the only long (ankle-length) skirt I have been able to find. So if anyone has found a long maternity skirt for less, I am all ears!

[dzmattie]

QOTD - Have you all started putting lotion on your bellies for stretch marks, itching, etc? I hadn't even thought about it yet but did put lotion on religiously for DS starting in the second trimester...I never really knew if it actually worked - I still have stretch marks from DS and I got the PUPPS rash at 30 weeks so I wouldn't have noticed "stretching itching"....I probably need to start the lotion...

[lawgirl4]

jeant - my saving grace for maternity stuff has been ebay. Do a search for "items in stores" - they tend to have better prices and are "buy it now" so you get them sooner - the prices have been great. of course, there's usually no return policy, so it can be risky, but I've been lucky so far. I find that the Gap's stuff is the best quality and they often have good "basics."

midwesterngal - ugh! I hate having to deal with unwanted gifts. I agree with the others that if the travel system is used, you have a handy "out" for the situation. And I also agree that sending out an email letting people know your needs/wishes is a good idea.

We had a different situation this week... my parents offered a month and a half ago to buy the baby's crib, and my ILs just offered the same via email 2 days ago. Since my parents are much more flexible, I called my mom and asked her if it would be okay for them to buy the glider instead. Unsurprisingly, she said it would be totally fine. Whew. I would have hated to have had to confront the ILs and decline the crib but then say "hey, but you could get us the glider instead!" ...they wouldn't have taken it too well.

QOTD - I have been terribly itchy so far. I have sensitive skin so I am not surprised! Everything I've read says that you can't avoid stretch marks - it's more genetic than environmental - but I figure that keeping my skin hydrated is better than not!

**********************************

Just spent the day with my 3 yr old nephew - I am exhausted!!! He alternates between being an absolute angel to being a totally hyper terror! Thus, tomorrow's plans are simply to r-e-l-a-x!

edited to add: my maternity pillow arrived! it's great - I am really happy with it. having the pillow to support my back makes a *huge* difference.

[Pamela]

baby movements, I never got the little flutters, the first definate movement felt like she rolled over and started flailing an arm or leg, and since then I just get kicks. Always on the left side too, she's always with her head on my right and kicking me on the left. I have noticed over the last few days that I'm feeling a lot more kicks, and sometimes I'm sure I can feel them from outside. I'll have to get dh to confirm that though.

Michelle, congratulations on your Girl! Wow, there are so many little girls so far!

Sua, thanks! I feel most kicks at night too, seems like she's more active when I'm going to sleep and when I'm waking up.

Midwesterngal, with the carseat from a garage sale, when I'm working OB (and I used to work just OB), when we discharge a mom and baby, if the carseat is from a garage sale its not ok. You never know its history or if its been in an accident. We send them home with a hospital carseat or see if someone can pick them up a new one or something.

QOTD, stretchmark creams, I started using Palmer's cocoa butter the day after I found out I was pregnant. I'm sure I'll be stretchmark-city anyways though.

[MidwesternGal]

Thank you all so much for your support! I've somewhat calmed down now. MIL emailed me information regarding the set. It's new and it's Evenflo. Not my first choice, but it seems like it will be okay. She said in her email that she got the impression that DH and I would like to be in on the big decisions and that she understands (whew!). I should post my email, LOL--it's litttered with "our baby" and "my child" and "DH and my baby," hehehe.

It's more that I had all ready kind of picked out a set and DH highly approved--not to mention my mom had tried to do the same thing with bedding a few weeks ago--so I'm feeling "run over" by the grandparents!! However, I can "tell it like it is" to my mom. . . but ILs, not so much!

lawgirl--It sounds like your ILs are a lot like mine. My parents I can talk to and discuss things with, and they are fairly easy going (although excitable!)--but ILs tend to get upset and defensive about things. I'm glad you got it all worked out, and that your parents were okay with the glider!!

jeant--JCPenny has a nice selection of reasonably priced maternity work clothing. You may want to check it out online!

QOTD Itching: I'm starting to itch around my belly button. I got stretch marks when I had a massive growth spurt in puberty, so I know I'm destined to get them with pregnancy. Most of the things I have read said to use lotions for itching, because you'll either get stretch marks or you won't. My skin problems have been more with my face than anything else--I'm redder, more broken out, and have a few red patches that won't go away.

[MichelleRenee]

Ugh. People keep saying I must be having twins because I am "so big." It is driving me nuts. Whatever happened to a polite "you look good" and change of subject? It's fun to have a belly but everyone makes me feel like a freak!

MidwesternGal, I totally understand the feeling. It is not ungrateful to want to have a say in what you get for your baby. My MIL did something similar for my bridal shower. She didn't like the everyday dishes I registered for so she just bought us a whole different set! Mike didn't want to return it because it was a "gift" and he felt bad, but if I am going to use these dishes for years and years I feel like I should have a say in what they look like. We kept them and use them, but I still wish I had gotten the set I wanted.

[Roxygirl]

I just felt the baby move yesterday morning. Now I am so aware and feel it move all the time. I had a mocha a few hours ago and right now it's doing the caffiene dance big time.

---------------------
Michelle: congrats on your girl. How exciting, I have a week to go and can't wait to find out.

MapleKitty: You are looking great!!!!!!

[marathongirl]

roxygirl - yeah for feeling the baby move!

michellerenee - people need to engage in brain before engaging in mouth! If you're not super-round by the end, people will say the baby must not be growing correctly :rolleyes: . Try not to let it bother you! :)

jeant - Gap is good for plain clothes. I liked Old Navy last time, but this time they seem to be catering to funky/trendy styles, but maybe give them a try.

midwesterngal - sorry about your ILs! Mine can be a bit overbearing at times, but they've finally let up lecturing us about parenting.

dzmattie - I didn't get stretch marks last time, so I hope to avoid them again. When I remember/have time, I lather on the lotion.

With everyone finding out the sex of their babies, it makes me want to know too! I'll have to live vicariously through all of your excitement!

My business opportunity is in the quilting industry. It's actually a pretty big industry and continues to grow.The woman whose studio I work in is looking to expand and is looking for a partner. I definitely have the drive and determination to make a go of it. I'm a little nervous about investing so much capital - I hate parting with my hard-earned cash. And I'm nervous about starting a business with two kids while my DH is out of town 4-5 months a year. I'd have to do a lot alone. Lots to think about, so we'll see.

[Pamela]

MichelleRenee, that is So rude when people make comments about how 'huge' a pregnant woman is! Even if someone really is as big as a house, people should never say things like that!

Roxygirl, hooray for feeling the baby move!

Marathongirl, Wow, you work in the quilting industry?! That is so cool! I don't think I'd ever be able to do it, I'd spend way more money than I earned!


So last night we had mexican food and I ate a ton of hot salsa (yum!) and got some good kicks for it. I'll take that to mean she likes spicy stuff. I had dh keep his hand on my belly for a while to see if he could feel anything, and he's sure he felt a little kick!

[MichelleRenee]

I am blown away by this weeks belly pic compared to last weeks:

13w2d
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v498/AngelyWangely/Belly%20Shots/DSC00290.jpg

14w2d
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v498/AngelyWangely/Belly%20Shots/DSC00313.jpg

It's insane!

[emermel]

Michelle: YOU ARE NOT BIG!!! You have such a cute little belly!! Don't let anyone make you feel bad. You look great!

[lawgirl4]

michelle - I would be blown away too! but didn't you mention that you have a very tilted uterus, and that's why you started to show fairly early? if that's the case, then don't worry!!! :)

[kenswife]

Loving all these belly shots!!! Baby bellies are the cutest!

Michelle - Congrats on you GIRL!!!! Having two of my own, girls are definitely little blessings!!


As for me:

I ended up with a terrible flu/virus on Friday and Saturday. I lost a ton of weight. I keep telling DH that it's like I have to start all over again growing my *belly*, haha! I feel much better today but it was a terrible recovery. Hoepfully everyone else can avoid this thing!

However, I did have one good experience for the weekend - I saw the baby's kick from the OUTSIDE for the first time!!!!! He/she's been kicking pretty hard and regularly lately. On Sat. night he/she kept giving me a big jab in the middle so I looked down and sure enough - baby kicked again! I'm telling you, this never gets old, even my 3rd time around!

My BIG u/s is on Friday and I am DYING waiting to find out!!!! I hope baby cooperates :) DH won't be able to make it :( so I'm going to have the tech write it on a piece of paper and put it in an envelope. That way DH and I can find out together. I am thinking of taking my oldest DD with me. She doesn't know I'm pregnant yet (she can't keep any secrets) and I thought it would be a cute way of "telling her". I know it's crazy that there are still people who don't know but Friday is our deadline for telling everyone!

Well, enough of my babbling! Everybody have a great day!

[MamaBear]

It has been a long time since I have posted. I have been trying to keep up, just haven't been able to post. Why can't I have a nice office job where I can surf the net without getting in trouble or having others looking over my shoulder! The nerve! Don't they understand how they cut into my CC time ;)

I can't believe we are already finding out the sex of our babies! Congrats on your girls Jeant, Lily and Michelle! Where are all the boys?

Welcome to the thread hmdelf

Congrats on the apartment, lawgirl!

RO questions-
Double strollers- I went through the thread in parenting yesterday. There are so many options! I am not sure if we will get one just yet. I will be slinging the new babe for awhile. I am not sure how much DS will want to stay in a stroller at 3 yrs old and it is quite a big investment.

Switching to a reg. bed- I keep going back and forth on this issue. DS has not tried to get out of his crib. I am quite happy with the way things are right now. I think that in the next couple of months we will start making a big deal about him moving to his new bedroom, fixing it up and switching to a "big boy bed". We'll see.

Movement- I have been feeling what I think is the baby off and on since about 14 weeks. But it is so random when it happens. Just in the last week have I been feeling more and stronger movements. Even now though, the movement isn't something that I feel with any regularity. Last time, I remember feeling the first movements at 17 weeks. When we first saw DS on our big u/s last time, I remember saying that I couldn't feel him moving even though he was bouncing all around.

Bedding- I won't start searcing for that until we find out the sex. I bought a set last time thinking that I would just use it again for the next baby. But I know that is not going to happen especially if we are having a girl. I will have to go out and buy a whole new set a change the look of the room.

Great pics, Maplekitty and Michellerenee! Your bellies look so cute.

As for me- things are going well here. I am going in today for the second blood draw for the NT. I should have the results in about a week. DS has been a MIL's house for the last 2 days. It has been a nice little break although I miss him like crazy!! You would think that with him not being here I would be able to sleep in. No such luck! I am still up at 6. So frustrating. I had my OB appt 2 weeks ago. All is well and the HB sounds good. She had a much easier time finding the HB this time. DH and DS got to hear it. You should have seen the look on DS's face.

In other big news- My niece just told me that she is pregnant. She is due 1/3. On the one hand, I am worried for her- she is 19 (20 in August), and in school. On the other hand, her BF is a really good guy. They have been together for over a year now and she is an adult. She will have alot of support from the family. She has already said that she wants to finish school and has been looking into programs that will help her do that. She is excited as am I about having another little one to run around with mine! The closest cousin is 7 years old. So many emotions! I have always been close to her and very protective of her. DH is her Godfather. I am going to be a great aunt :eek: Aren't you supposed to be old to be one of those?!

Threadmistress-if you could please update my appts. Next OB appt is 5/16. BIG U/S!! is sched. for 5/30. I will be 20w2d. So long to wait!! I hope the next 4 weeks fly by. Of course they will, this whole pregnancy has been flying by!

Well, off to the City. I want to get in and get out before the protest march starts. I hope that you all have a great Monday!

Sara

[Ericka_Jarett]

3 weeks to go until my level 2 u/s, hubby will be coming with me.

We were in DC this weekend, was one of hubby's spontaneous trips that he likes to have us take. Story of the trip is in my journal, didn't want to fill up this thread with that.

I am feeling pretty good, getting a little anxious now that I am getting close to 20 weeks. Have to still find out about the u/s next week.

[lawgirl4]

just wanted to drop off my latest pics! threadmistress, please use the collage for my pic, thanks!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/preggo/16wkcollage.jpg

and a new version for me - with clothes! sorry for the funny facial expression - that's what happens when you are trying to hold the camera steady and at the proper angle!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/preggo/IMG_3619.jpg

I have my regular OB appt tomorrow - yippee! It is so freaking hard to go 4 weeks without hearing the heartbeat - I actually can't wait until I will be going in every 2 weeks!

[Roxygirl]

Okay here's a question for anyone. I am about 17 weeks and woke up this morning to find that I had leaked out of my right breast. I know this is normal but not usually until the third trimester. Has anyone else had this yet????

[marathongirl]

Quick reply -

Roxygirl - I never leaked w/ DD, but IIRC one of the women from my Sept 2004 group started leaking around 16-17 weeks. Certainly not unheard of.

[lawgirl4]

roxygirl - one of my LJ friends also had leaking around this time - her doctor said it can indeed happen this early, and it's nothing to worry about. I would mention it to your dr though, just so he/she is aware of it.

[nutter13]

Hi, hope everyone is doing well :)

Got lots of maternity clothes this weekend. I think I'm all set with the exception of a couple tops and a swimsuit for the summer. Our neighbor who was pregnant a couple years ago and due in October gave me a whole bag of clothes.

Any ideas what I could do for her to thank her?

My next appt. is still another 2 weeks away, never has 4 weeks ever been so long as it is when you are pregnant!

[TaterBaby]

I haven't posted much lately either, but have been reading along. I have my BIG ultrasound next Wednesday! I feel like I'm on hold until then as far as buying or planning anything goes. I have been thinking girl all along, but the absence of boys here makes me wonder.

Someone asked about a doppler...I use mine probably every other day. I'm really glad that I have it. I think I'll probably return it after having it a month though since I should start feeling him/her move soon. My dr. said about 18 weeks I should start to feel movement. That is Wednesday for me so I have been on the lookout. I've definitely felt things, just not sure what they are.

I am using stretch mark cream every morning, but know that I will probably get them anyway. I got them on my bbs in the 1st month. :eek: So I am fully expecting them on my stomach.

[Jenzen01]

Movement - I'm definitely feeling baby, but I think I'm more aware of what to look for because this is my second time around. Right now, I feel mostly squirmy, gassy, pressure feelings. With Gabe, I got more kicks and punches early on. This baby is moving differently so far. It's just starting to get consistent. Up until the past few days, I would feel the baby one day and then go a couple of days without much.

I'm off to Florida for the rest of the week. We have a work seminar down there, so I'll talk to you all when I get back!

Jen

[MichelleRenee]

nutter13, gift certificate for a restaurant/clothing store/etc? Free night of babysitting? A massage/manicure/facial?

Roxygirl, at 11 weeks my doctor told me it could happen at any time.

TaterBaby, I feel the same way... like all the girls are going to be "taken" and that I'll "have to have a boy." Strange, I know, but every time someone posts they are having a girl I feel like my chances of having one went down a little. So silly.

Jenzen01, have fun in Florida!

QOTD: has everyone been stocking up on baby stuff? We grab a container of wipes every visit to the grocery store and a pack of diapers every other visit or so. We also randomly buy baby wash and powder and stuff. Everyone says you get "so much" at your shower, but my sister told me that within a couple months it is all gone, so I figure we might as well start our own stockpile. And it helps hold us over until we know the sex and can buy other fun stuff!

[maplekitty]

Re: QOTD - that's a great idea and I think I'll start doing that soon. It's amazing how fast you go through stuff, and it's expensive, so if we can stretch oout the amount of money being spent, then that is great!

[MidwesternGal]

Michelle and Lawgirl and Maplekitty--great pics!! You're all looking good!

Taterbaby and Michelle--I feel the *exact* same way about the girls!! So many girls all ready, it feels like I'll pretty much have to have a boy! LOL. I all ready think it's a boy, anyway, so I won't be too surprised if it is. DH and I were not going to find out the sex. . . but now we are and will just keep it to ourselves (and CC ladies, of course!).

So I *think* I felt a kick or fist Sunday night! I was lying in bed, and all of a sudden I felt a little thawp! just below my belly button. Kind of like when someone flicks you lightly with their finger. At first I thought, huh, that's weird, I'm not gassy. . . . but then I realized it probably was the baby! However, I haven't felt anything since, no matter how still I lie! Hehehe. Can't feel it from the outside though-- I have some padding for the baby to kick through before that happens!

QOTD:--I have read that stock piling is a good idea. Something I'll probably start in a month or two. Something to consider ladies, is to buy different brands each time, in case DC has a sensitve behind! You don't want to be stuck with all Pampers or Huggies, only to have him/her be allergic!

[Michelle]

Thanks everybody for the congrats on the girl. We are excited, but I really thought we were having a boy. My DH thought it would be a girl though. I guess that I have to work on my mothers intuition a bit! :)

Here's a picture of our baby girl from last Friday that I should have posted sooner. I can't believe that she's the size of an avocado, yet looks so big! :)

http://static.flickr.com/50/138029758_db1ddf8a13_m.jpg

________________________

Ericka - I'm glad to hear that you had a good weekend!

Lawgirl - Great belly shots!

Roxygirl - I'm sure you have nothing to worry about. Everybody is different and bodies all react differently at different times.

Nutter - That's fantastic that you had somebody to give you maternity clothes! You'll have a lot to choose from!

Taterbaby - Time will fly in the next week until your big ultrasound!

Jenzen - Have fun in Florida!

MidwesternGal - Congrats on feeling the kick! That must feel amazing!

QOTD - I have not started stocking up yet but I'm thinking about doing it soon. It would be nice to have a supply of baby stuff so I'm stocked up in the beginning. Good idea gals!

[marathongirl]

QOTD - haven't started stocking up yet. I waited until about 2 months before DD was born for her. I can't believe I'll be buying size 1 diapers again!

lawgirl, michelle, and maplekitty - you guys look great!!!

jenzen - have fun in Florida!

nutter - maybe a pedicure? Or a small dinner gift cert for her and her DH?

tater - I also feel like since we've had a rush of girls, that my chances of having a girl are going down. Silly, I know.

13 days until my u/s (not that I'm counting). I'm just excited to see the little one again and make sure he/she's healthy.

Hope everyone's doing well!

[Quartercentury]

Congratulations on your girl, Michelle!

We had the day off yesterday for May Day, so I'm back to work after a nice long weekend. In the UK, we have four "federal" holidays between March and May, but then nothing until August! I wish they were spread out more. Sigh.

MichelleRenee, I would love for my belly to be so cute (i.e. clearly pregnant and not just slightly swollen looking)!

For swimming, I found a proper Speedo maternity suit on eBay (last summer, looking at the Speedo website (no maternity to be found), I wonder how old it is...). It's a plain black tank with a shelf bra and runching at the sides to make room for a belly. Haven't had to wear it yet, though!

QOTD: I've got the majority of a newborn/small cloth diaper stash put together. We'll wait to buy bigger things until we see which of the small ones we like best. I'm also planning to make cloth wipes, so I'm not buying those. But I will start picking up appropriate fabric and actually making the wipes over the next few months. We're not planning to use too much else in the way of "consumable" baby goods (washes, special laundry soap, etc.).

[MichelleRenee]

buy different brands each time, in case DC has a sensitve behind!

We buy whichever brand is on sale or that we have a coupon for.

[Ericka_Jarett]

Ladies - there are already January mommies. The thread doesn't seem to be started yet, but there are a mommies already for it.

[emermel]

Had my checkup yesterday. Everything seems to be fine with "Fishstick" as DD has named the baby. (not sure where that came from but it seems to be sticking :rolleyes: )

HB was 152 and the doctor found it right away. I've put on a total of 7 lbs, which I guess is OK. From what I've read, I should have gained 5-10 by now...just trying to watch what I gain since I gained so much last time.

DD was having a "terrible two's" day yesterday. We battled about pretty much everything. Unfortunately, I think that I lost the battles! So far today seems better. Cross your fingers!

Had our new house inspected on Saturday and everything is basically Ok. There are a few things that need to be fixed-mostly there are a few holes in the siding. We're hoping that the sellers just do everything since none of it is that big of a deal. Now we just have to survive the actual act of moving :eek:. The good news is though, we don't have to put a house on the market here in Arizona, so that's one less thing to stress about. Our landlord is going to put the house on the market though, so I guess I'll still have to keep the place pretty clean in the moving process. Not sure why she wouldn't just wait another 7 weeks until we are out?

QOTD: we probably won't stock up on stuff until after DC is born. Simply for the fact that with DD we had stocked a little and the diapers we bought didn't fit right, so I'm paranoid.

[Nigellas]

Ladies - there are already January mommies. The thread doesn't seem to be started yet, but there are a mommies already for it.


Woah... Awesome!

[She-Ra]

Hi all-not much going on here, just very busy today at work b/c I'm off Wednesday to close on the new house.

QOTD: We will probably wait to stock on stuff-we changed from pamper to huggies with DS after he outgrew the swaddlers, plus he grew so quickly I ended up giving a few packs to a friend with preemie twins.

Congrats on the girl Michelle! It is funny that in the thread I was in for DS over 2 years ago, it was mostly boys, especially early on.

[Michelle]

Ladies - there are already January mommies. The thread doesn't seem to be started yet, but there are a mommies already for it.

I keep looking for the thread too so I can peek in and see who got BFP's! I hope somebody starts one soon. Can you believe that there are now November, December, and January moms? Time is flying you guys! Before you know it, our little ones will be here! :)

[lawgirl4]

hi everyone!

just got back from my 17 week appt this morning - all was well! We heard the heartbeat whooshing away in the high 140s/low 150s and my dr said that the baby was "wiggling around." She also said that I shouldn't expect to feel movement until about 20 weeks, so for those first time mommies here who haven't felt anything yet, no need to panic! It's totally normal.

I gained another 2 pounds, which I'm fine with.

I'm still having some nosebleeds, so my doctor said that I should use my saline nose spray more frequently - it can soothe the nasal passages and help quite a bit. And, I've been suffering from terribly itchy breasts - probably due to growth, so she said to find a nice thick cream (she recommended shea butter).

I scheduled my "big u/s" and next OB appt for May 30th! Can't wait... I'll actually be 20w5d, but it was the most convenient appt time for us. Plus, I feel like time is flying by, so I am sure it will be here before I know it!

QOTD - I don't think we are going to start stockpiling stuff for a while. Our nursery should be finished by early summer, so I don't want to have too much stuff sitting around in our bedroom or elsewhere in the interim. Plus, I don't want to buy too much until we know what the baby likes, what fits him/her, etc... I know I had a terrible reaction to one kind of diaper as a baby, and then my parents had to start buying a different brand, for example. Plus, my mom will be with us for the first 6 weeks so if we run out of anything, she will be there to go out and buy it for us. At that point I'll probably have her start stockpiling bigger diaper sizes, etc... for when she's gone!

*************************************

michelle - beautiful u/s pic! I agree, it's hard to realize she's just the size of an avocado!

ericka - wow, january mommies already! time is flying!

emermel - glad your inspection went well. I hope the rest of the transaction goes smoothly!

she-ra - good luck at your closing! how exciting! ours went pretty quickly last week, I wish the same for you!

[SlvSpring]

Wow, I am just trying to catch up here! So much going on... Congrats to all the parents of little girls! How exciting that you can now call the baby she instead of it! DH and I can't wait until we can say he or she instead of it or the baby.

Well, they offically changed my EDD to 10/30/06So, Michellerenee, don't feel too bad, you've got at least one person behind you!

This weekend I had my first sickness. The doctor thought thinks it is a virus so I have just been at home resting with lots of fluids. I'm starting to get alot better. It is scary to be sick and pregnant, I worry about the baby being okay.

In addition to being sick, I also had some bleeding yesterday, more than the last time. I was SO SCARED! I went to the doctor and they got me in for an ultrasound that afternoon.
DH came home from work and we went together and the baby is DOING GREAT!!! We saw the fingers even! There was so much detail. It was wonderful and was such a great relief. They gave us images from the U/S but they are printed onto an x-ray sheet and I can't seem to scan them so that it comes to out clear. Anybody have any suggestions?

My next appt is May 17th

[Pamela]

kenswife, I hope you're feeling better! Too cool you saw the baby kick from the outside!

Mamabear, wow, with your niece being pregnant too your baby will have a playmate the same age!

Roxygirl, I haven't noticed any actual leakage yet, but I've been having bits of crusty stuff (ew!) on my nips since about 11 or 12 weeks. Its never a lot, and I don't even pay any attention to it now.

nutter, too cool your neighbour gave you all those maternity clothes!

Taterbaby,I got similar stretchmarks just from puberty :eek: I'm doing good so far, but I haven't grown much yet and I'm sure that I'm going to be stretchmark city eventually.

Jenzen, have fun in Florida!

Michelle, thats a great u/s pic!

Quartercentury, I think about doing cloth diapers sometimes (apparently I was in them for a while), but I'm undecided. I really like the idea though.

ErickaJarrett, wow, time sure is flying!

SlvSpring, I hope you're feeling better!

QOTD, stocking up, not sure if we'll do this or not. I have sensitive skin, so I'd really hate to stock up on products that irritate baby's skin.


I had another OB appointment today (I'll really be glad when I'm not going weekly!). I think I'm doing better and contracting less. I only got to hear the HB for a few seconds at a time because she was moving around too much. But things are looking good. I also got the quad test result back and its fine too.

There are a couple of new houses going up, one on either side of us and they're both by the same builder, and he and his family are going to be moving in next door in a month or so. They've got four kids, my husband says the older three are girls (ages from about 3 or 4 up to teenager) and the fourth is a baby. He wasn't sure if the baby was a boy or a girl, but on sunday I was sitting on the front porch while dh planted some lilac bushes for me and I saw the wife holding the baby (I never see anyone 'cause I'm always inside!) and it looks like the baby is maybe 5 or 6 months (didn't get a good look so I'm totally guessing) and the blanket was pink and white so I'm guessing girl. But it looks like my kiddo will have a playmate next door :D

[kenswife]

I had my regular OB appt. today. It was the usual. The heartbeat was nice and strong again! It is somewhere in the 160's. Everything's looking good. I have not gained any weight yet :eek: , although I did just get over a flu too. The dr. said he wasn't worried though as long as the baby looked like he/she was growing well. In both of my previous pregnancies, I had at least gained something by now. But I guess I shouldn't complain!

So, now I'm looking forward to my Big U/S on Friday. The day can't come soon enough :) They told to me to have my VHS tape ready so I'm excited to be able to show my little bean off once I have that in my hands!!

I can't believe how time is flying. It's crazy really.

Pamela - I'm feeling much better, thank you! Having playmates in the neighborhood is awesome! My next door neighbor had a baby 2 months before my DD2 was born and now she's pregnant again and due a month after me! We'll have sibling playmates next door! Unfortunately, there's not many kids my DD1's age.

lawgirl - I hear you on the nosebleeds. That's been one of my big symptoms this time around. I didn't have them with the first 2 though. Congrats on scheduling your big u/s!

QOTD - Stockpiling......well.....it depends on what this baby is gender-wise. If it's a girl, I'll hold off since we have soooooo much girl stuff. If it's a boy, I won't be able to help myself, I'll have to stockpile. I stockpiled lotions, shampoos, etc with DD2 but since there's only going to be 17 mos. between her and this one, I already have all of that stuff around. Diapers I will DEFINITELY stockpile on - though in bigger sizes since it's "iffy" with the smaller ones how long they'll stay in them.

Okay, heading off to eat dinner. Have a great night girls!

[Bubeleh]

We had the big u/s today and we are having a...BOY!!!!. I thought we would do our part to increase the odds for girls for the rest of the thread ;)

The U/S was amazing we saw everything from detailed pictures of the spine, the profile, feet hands, and the Boy parts! She evern did some 3D/4D imaging for us for FREE!!! We got a great video and some photos.

She said everything looked perfect. She also had our AFP results which were negative. He's measuring a week ahead but they are not changing my date.

DH is thrilled and excited about having a sports buddy.

*********************
QOTD: I don't think we will stock up too much. I want to see the size of the baby, and we have been told we are getting lots of clothes and other items from friends so I don't want to go overboard on buying stuff we won't end up using.

Next U/S is on 8/10

[Michelle]

Bubeleh - Congrats on your boy! :)

Kenswife - I hope the rest of the week goes by quickly for you!

Pamela - Glad to hear that you're feeling better!

Slvspring - I'm sorry about your scare, but glad to hear that baby is doing well!

Lawgirl - Yay for having a good appt today. The nosebleeds are something I always forgot to ask the dr about. I've read they are common and I've never had so many nosebleeds before in my life!

She-ra - Congrats on the new house! Wishing you a smooth closing!

[Pamela]

Bubeleh, Congratulations on your Boy!!

[lawgirl4]

bubeleh - congrats on your BOY!!! that's great! :) Now I can't believe I have to wait 4 more weeks for mine (when I will be almost 21 wks), especially since I see you are 18 weeks now! :rolleyes: I am so impatient!!

[maplekitty]

congrats Bubeleh! See there are some boys out there in our thread group....

I'm so anxious to see if they will tell us the sex at friday's u/s!!!!! I'll be 18 weeks (19 according to my doc who can't get my dates straight, lol). And after seeing all you gals knowing as soon as 17 wks and such I'm getting impatient too!


I think I felt the baby yesterday!!! :D
Like you've all described it felt like a tiny litle tap or bump from the inside. I was sitting here on the computer with my feet up on a stool, so my stomach was kind crunched. I was excited and sat very still, but i havnt felt anything else since. I can't wait to feel it more often, it's such a neat new experience!!

[MamaBear]

Good evening, ladies!

Another beautiful day has passed. Uneventful too. I do have to say, this baby is starting to kick alot. I am feeling much more movement now. It is always amazing to feel those little movements.

QOTD- Nope. We aren't stocking up yet. Maybe we will start stocking some of the larger size diapers and wipes. As for clothing, I am waiting to find out what we are having. If we have a girl, I will have to start shopping right away (I am such a sucker for cute little girly clothes:D ) We have a ton of boy things already including things that DS has never worn. I am more into thinking about how we are going to decorate DS's big boy room. That is pretty much where my mind is right now.

I too am waiting for the new January thread to go up. It is always fun to go back and read along with those that are just finding out about being pregnant. It is such an exciting time.

emermel- Fishstick! That is so funny. Sorry about the rough day yesterday. DS has been having those alot more lately too. Somehow I just can't find the energy to fight him most of the time. Hope that your day today was a better one. BIG congrats on the house!

lawgirl- Glad that your appt went well. We are both having our big u/s the same day. It seems like it is going to take forever for that day to finally arrive!

slvspring- Hope that there wasn't anymore bleeding today. That is wonderful that they got you in for a u/s to make sure that all is well. What a relief!

Pamela- Yay for the good quad results. That's great that there will be a little one next door to play with. Think about that teenager too. Depending on how responsible she is, you could have a babysitter right next door.

kenswife- Friday is almost here. You are so lucky that you get to videotape the u/s. They don't do that at the hospital I am going to for the u/s. At least they didn't 3 years ago.

Bubeleh- Congrats on your Boy!! That is so exciting. Will the boys start to catch up?

Maplekitty- Yay for feeling the baby! You will start to feel more and more very soon. I would only feel things every couple days or so. Just in the last day or two have I starting feeling things more frequently. It is all so exciting!

Well, thought I would just catch up while I had the time. I am off to watch American Idol. Hope that you all have a good night!

Sara

[marathongirl]

bubelah - congrats on your BOY!!!

she-ra - hope your house closing goes smoothly!

pamela - that's so cool your baby will have playmates next door. A friend of mine is due the end of July, so her baby will be close in age to my #2.

maplekitty and mamabear - yeah for kicks!

kenswife - only 2 more days before you find out!

slverspring - what a scare! Glad everything is OK!

lawgirl - I had terrible nosebleeds when I was PG with DD. They got to be really scary! I've only had two so far this time around, thank goodness.

emermel - congrats on your house! No one told me the terrible two's start around 19 months. There are days with DD when I swear she's 19 months going on 13 years old.

Count me in for being excited about the January 2007 thread!

I think we are finally finished with having work done on our house this year. We were going to have someone come and paint the inside, but between the A/C installation and getting the basement waterproofed, there have been workmen in and out of the house almost everyday for the last month. I'm just tired of the noise, dirt, and having to keep an eye on everyone. Not to mention the disruption to DD's nap schedule.

Hope everyone is doing well!

[dzmattie]

Quick post - Just wanted to let you ladies know that I just got a new pair of maternity jeans from the Gap - they are the "trouser jeans" and they are so comfy! They say they are for when you are really showing but they are great now for me....:eek: - they are nice b/c they don't have the demi panel elastic which for me always gets twisted....I think I paid $40 which is more than I normally go for but for jeans I wanted a good pair since I wear them practically every day!

http://www.gap.com/Asset_Archive/GPWeb/Assets/Product/365/365546/main/gp365546-00p01v01.jpg

I also got -
http://www.gap.com/Asset_Archive/GPWeb/Assets/Product/313/313638/quick/gp313638-00qlv01.jpg

(Did we decide that pictures were ok? That is all I have but wanted to make sure....)