October 2006 Mommies : 2nd Trimester

[Sept&Oct06Moms]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v119/APMomof3/dioepp2.gif: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/rajencks/Tri2_rec.gif
We have 34 Mommies & Babies!!!
http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i265/4kidzmom/Team_Pink.gif - 12 http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i265/4kidzmom/Team_Blue.gif - 17 http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i265/4kidzmom/Team_Green.gif - 5

Please list your appts in RED, your baby's gender in magenta or blue.
Also, when posting, please put in the subject line how far along you are (i.e. 13w, 1d; 20w,4d, etc.)!

Username:
Me: Name, age
DH: Name, age
Married: Date
EDD: Date
Any other children:
Gender:

1st Trimester Thread (http://www.constantchatter.com/showthread.php?t=14860)

2nd Trimester information for weeks 14-26 (http://www.childbirthsolutions.com/articles/pregnancy/weeklypregcalendar/index2.php) * 2nd trimester pics (http://www.pregnancy.org/pregnancy/fetaldevelopment2.php)

3rd Trimester Thread (http://www.constantchatter.com/showthread.php?t=20438)

Babies Arriving Thread starts mid September

http://images1.snapfish.com/3473545%3A%3B%7Ffp344%3Enu%3D3254%3E962%3E847%3EWS NRCG%3D323383846759%3Bnu0mrj

The threadmistresses for this thread are Ericka_Jarett and Michelle

[Sept&Oct06Moms]

bunnybeth - Bethany, 27
DH: Elon, 28
Married: June 23, 2002
EDD: October 25, 2006
Gender: It's a Boy

Bubeleh - H, 28
DH: A, 30
Married: March, 2003
EDD: October 1, 2006
Gender: It's a Boy

dzmattie - Becca, 28
DH: 28
Married: 2002
Any other children: DS, 1/15/04
EDD: October 14, 2006
Gender: It's A Girl

emermel - Emily 28
DH: Todd 30
Married May 12, 2002
DD: January 17, 2004
EDD: October 14, 2006
Gender: It's A Girl

Ericka_Jarett - Ericka, 32
DH: Jarett, 28
Married: December 14, 2001
Other children: Rebekah Joy, born April 18, 2005 at 24 weeks, with us 71 mins.
EDD: October 4, 2006
Gender: It's a Boy

Hmdelf - Heather, 33
DH: Ed, 29
Married: October 11, 2003
Any other children: S, December 25, 2004
EDD: October 18, 2006
Gender: It's A Surprise

Hula1974 - Heather, 31
DH: Tim, 31
Married: June 8, 2002
EDD: September 29, 2006
Gender: It's A Boy

jbemommy - Shana, 33
DH: Doug, 41
Married: June 22, 2002
Any other children: Juliana, 2/3/04
EDD: October 4, 2006
Gender: It's A Surprise

jeant - Jean, 34
DH: Craig, 34
Married: June 19, 2004
EDD: October 26, 2006
Gender: It's A Girl

jenniferlynne - Jennifer, 33
DH: Roger, 34
Married: June 8, 2002
Any other children: Will, born 4/24/04
EDD: October 26, 2006
Gender: It's A Girl

Jenzen01 - Jen, 28
DH: Al, 38
Married: October 4, 2003
Any other children: Gabriel (Gabe) born 12.21.2004
EDD: October 16, 2006
Gender: It's A Girl

kenswife - Emily
DH: Ken
Married: February 3, 2004
Any other children: Alyssa (5) & Ilanna (11mos)
EDD: October 7, 2006
Gender:It's a BOY

lawgirl4 - Ericka, 31
DH: Rob, 36
Married: July 6, 2003
EDD: October 12, 2006
Gender: It's a Girl

Mamabear - Sara, 33
DH: David, 35
Married: 5/31/2003
Any other children:Alexander, 2/6/04
EDD: October 15, 2006
Gender: It's a Boy

maplekitty - Sarah, 25
DH: Curt, 28
Married: August 27, 2005
EDD: October 6, 2006
Gender: It's a Girl - Robyn Abigail

marathongirl - Sue, 31
DH: Tim, 33
Married: December 1, 2001
Other children: Claire Sophia 09/16/04
EDD: October 1, 2006
Gender: It's a Surprise

Maxicat - Kim, 37
Dh: 45
Married: May 11, 2002
EDD: October 25, 2006
Gender: It's A Girl

Michelle - Michelle, 28
DH: Matt, 28
Married: August 30, 2003
EDD: October 13, 2006
Gender: It's A Girl- Madison

MichelleRenee - Michelle, 24
DH: Michael, 30
Married: May 29, 2005
EDD: October 27, 2006
Any other children: two furbabies: Chez and Bogey
Gender: It's a BOY- Tristan Michael

MidwesternGal - Amy, 25
DH: Nate, 24
Married: January 10, 2004
EDD: October 7, 2006
Gender: It's a BOY

Mommy2ml - Rebecca, 29
DH: Rob, 28
Married: August 5, 2001
Any other children: Mackenzie, 3yo, DOB 1/12/2003
EDD: October 5, 2006
Gender: It's a BOY- Logan Henry

Mrs-Mac - D, 29
DH: M, 32
Married: October 5, 2002
EDD: October 23, 2006
Gender: It's A Surprise!

Nigellas - Kerry, 29
DH: Chris, 30
Married: August 7, 2001
EDD: October 24, 2006
Gender: It's a BOY

nutter13 - N, 27
DH: B, 27
Married: July 6, 2002
Any other children: DD
EDD: October 22, 2006
Gender: It's a Boy

Pamela - Pamela, 26
DH: DH, 26
Married: June 13, 2004
EDD: October 4, 2006
Gender: It's a Girl

pickle - E, 30
DH: J, 31
Married: November 1, 2001
EDD: October 5, 2006
Gender: It's a Boy

PinkMartini - Summer, 24
DH: Jeremy, 33
Married: June 17, 2006
EDD: October 17, 2006
Gender: It's a Boy - Jacob Michael

quartercentury - QC, 27
FH: 27
Married: not yet; together since Xmas 2000, engaged since June 2005
EDD: October 21, 2006
Gender: It's A Surprise!

Rippy1010 - Ally, 29
DH: Jeff, 29
Married: July 23, 2005
EDD: October 1, 2006
Gender: It's a Boy - Logan Anthony

Roxygirl - Marissa, 26
DH: R, 26
Married: July 10th, 2004
EDD: October 9, 2006
Gender: It's a Girl

She-ra - Sheila, 34
DH: Charlie, 35
Married: September 28, 2002
Any other children: Charles Henry (Charlie) 3/30/04
EDD: October 13, 2006
Gender: It's a Boy

SlvSpring - Oona, 25
DH: Josh, 27
Married: July 30, 2005
EDD: October 21, 2006
Gender: It's a Boy

Sua - 36
DH: 38
Married: Novermber, 2002
Other children: Greyson 3/7/04
EDD: October 13, 2006
Gender: It's a Boy

TaterBaby - Emily, 27
DH: Josh, 26
Married: May 22, 2004
Any other children: 2 furbabies; m/c at 10 weeks with D&C - Aug 05
EDD: October 4, 2006
Gender: It's A Girl - Lainey Elizabeth

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v119/APMomof3/angel.gif Twylla, dlj78, happy, kate2l, kerrykate

No updates: MrsG, Lily, Tika - removed from roster

[Sept&Oct06Moms]

http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d168/jaclynrich1/TTC%20BOARD/Words/duedatenew.gif

September 29
Hula1974

October 1
marathongirl
Rippy1010
Bubeleh

October 4
jbemommy
Pamela
TaterBaby
Ericka_Jarett

October 5
pickle
Mommy2ml

October 6
maplekitty

October 7
MidwesternGal
kenswife

October 9
Roxygirl

October 12
lawgirl4

October 13
Michelle
She-ra
Sua

October 14
dzmattie
emermel

October 15
Mamabear

October 16
Jenzen01

October 17
PinkMartini

October 18
Hmdelf

October 21
quartercentury
SlvSpring

October 22
nutter13

October 23
Mrs-Mac

October 24
Nigellas

October 25
bunnybeth
Maxicat

October 26
jeant
jenniferlynne

October 27
MichelleRenee

[Sept&Oct06Moms]

lawgirl4: 20w 6d!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/preggo/21wkprofile3.jpg

maplekitty: 22 weeks
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid207/pdaa885335d68c519ba91e82958d83b0a/eeb7731d.jpg

Michelle: 16w
http://static.flickr.com/50/138029758_db1ddf8a13_m.jpg

pamela: 22w, 2d
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y145/MrsPamela/Baby/22wkus1.jpg

TaterBaby: 19 weeks
http://images1.snapfish.com/346%3A4%3B%3B%3A3%7Ffp33%3A%3Enu%3D3233%3E638%3E8% 3B9%3E23246389%3A%3A27%3Bot1lsi

[Sept&Oct06Moms]

bunnybeth: 20 weeks
http://bunnybeth.net/images/pregnancy/20w_profile.jpg

Ericka_Jarett: 22 weeks
http://images1.snapfish.com/346%3C8458%3A%7Ffp342%3Enu%3D3278%3E943%3E%3A57%3E WSNRCG%3D32337%3B5785348nu0mrj

MichelleRenee: 19 weeks
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v498/AngelyWangely/Tristan%20Michael/DSC00360.jpg

Mommy2ml: 13 weeks
http://pics.livejournal.com/mama_of_mackie/pic/00004xp7/s320x320

Nigellas: 16w 3d
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v712/nigellas/16.jpg

PinkMartini: 17 weeks
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v131/PinkMartini/Baby028BUP.jpg

[Sept&Oct06Moms]

SlvSpring: 20w 6d
http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h160/JoshandOona/ul4s.jpg

Rippy1010
http://images1.snapfish.com/346%3B46762%7Ffp344%3Enu%3D3233%3E675%3E793%3E2324 6758844%3B8ot1lsi

QuarterCentury
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v448/quartercentury/October%202006%20Pumpkin/profilecrop.jpg

[Sept&Oct06Moms]

marathongirl: 23w3d
http://images1.snapfish.com/346%3C83295%7Ffp342%3Enu%3D3239%3E645%3E638%3EWSNR CG%3D32337%3B48%3B85%3A4nu0mrj

quartercentury: 4,8,12,16,20 weeks
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v448/quartercentury/October%202006%20Pumpkin/4to20weeks.jpg

[Sept&Oct06Moms]

emermel: 18w 3d
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y88/emermel/18weeksMay162006.jpg

jenzen01: 18 weeks
http://images1.snapfish.com/346%3B53%3A35%7Ffp345%3Enu%3D3233%3E678%3E8%3B8%3E 23246789%3A9467ot1lsi

lawgirl4
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/preggo/21wkcollage.jpg

maplekitty : 24 weeks
http://images1.snapfish.com/34736%3A%3B3%3A%7Ffp342%3Enu%3D3266%3E%3A7%3B%3E27 4%3EWSNRCG%3D323384448372%3Cnu0mrj

Pamela
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y145/MrsPamela/Baby/24weeks2days.jpg

Roxygirl: 16 weeks
http://images1.snapfish.com/346924%3B86%7Ffp346%3Enu%3D3244%3E3%3A6%3E759%3EWS NRCG%3D323367728682%3Bnu0mrj

[Sept&Oct06Moms]

TaterBaby : 20 weeks
http://images1.snapfish.com/346%3B56262%7Ffp339%3Enu%3D3233%3E676%3E%3B%3A9%3E 2324676%3C9%3A7%3A9ot1lsi

[Sept&Oct06Moms]

bunnybeth
http://bunnybeth.net/images/pregnancy/belly_5w20w_short.jpg

Ericka_Jarett: 22 weeks
http://images1.snapfish.com/346%3C677%3C5%7Ffp346%3Enu%3D3278%3E943%3E%3A57%3E WSNRCG%3D32337%3A63%3B7737nu0mrj

kenswife: 23 weeks
http://images1.snapfish.com/347388574%7Ffp33%3A%3Enu%3D3237%3E882%3E%3A96%3EWS NRCG%3D323384%3A%3B99895nu0mrj

MichelleRenee: 21w 2d
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v498/AngelyWangely/Belly%20Shots/DSC00398.jpg

MidwesternGal: 18w 1d
http://images1.snapfish.com/346%3A28%3A%3B2%7Ffp33%3B%3Enu%3D3283%3E687%3E33%3 A%3EWSNRCG%3D32336%3B55%3B2688nu0mrj

Nigellas: 18w 2d
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v712/nigellas/Picture016.jpg

[Sept&Oct06Moms]

Rippy1010
http://images1.snapfish.com/34732645%3B%7Ffp33%3A%3Enu%3D3258%3E%3A%3C4%3E567% 3EWSNRCG%3D3233828294669nu0mrj

[Sept&Oct06Moms]

Weekly Pregnancy Updates:
American Baby (www.americanbaby.com) * Baby Center (www.babycenter.com) * BabyZone (www.babyzone.com) * StorkNet (www.pregnancyguideonline.com) * Target (www.target.com) * Very Best Baby (www.verybestbaby.com)

Tickers:
Baby's First Site (www.babysfirstsite.com) * Baby Gaga (www.baby-gaga.com) * Lilypie (www.lilypie.com) * One In The Oven (www.oneintheoven.net) * Ticker Central (www.tickercentral.com) * Ticker Factory (www.tickerfactory.com)

Miscellaneous Informative Sites:
Baby Names (www.babynames.com) * Safe Fetus (Tells you which drugs you can take during pregnancy) (http://www.safefetus.com/)

Maternity Shopping Sites:
A Pea In The Pod (http://www.apeainthepod.com/enter.asp?Media=&referer=http://www.constantchatter.com&EntryPoint=Home&YahooRedirect=True) * Baby Style (http://www.babystyle.com/) * Belly Basics (http://www.bellybasics.com/) * Bella Materna (http://www.bellamaterna.com/) * Gap Maternity (http://www.gap.com/asp/mat_directory.asp?wdid=90) * JCPenney (www.jcpenney.com) * Mimi Maternity (http://www.mimimaternity.com/home.asp?Media=Motherhood) * Mom's The Word (http://www.momstheword.com/) * Motherhood Maternity (http://www.motherhood.com/home.asp?Media=LinkShare|1xxcmpLMYS8-) * Old Navy (http://www.oldnavy.com/asp/dept.asp?wdid=800) * Target (www.target.com) * Lane Bryant (http://www.lbcatalog.com/lbcatalog/layout/layout.asp?referer=1&dept_id=7221&rootdept=600&) * Fashion Bug (http://www.fashionbug.com)

Baby Registries:
Babies 'R Us (www.babiesrus.com) * Baby Center (www.babycenter.com) * Baby Depot (http://www.burlingtoncoatfactory.com/IWStoreBCF.process?IWAction=Load&proc=IWCatSectionView&Merchant_Id=1&Section_Id=1395) * BabyStyle (www.babystyle.com) * Buy Buy Baby (www.buybuybaby.com) * Sears (www.sears.com) * Target (www.target.com) * USA Baby (www.usababy.com) * WalMart (www.walmart.com)

Baby Shopping Sites:
Baby Age (www.babyage.com) * Baby Ant (http://www.babyant.com) * Baby Bazaar (http://www.babybazaar.com/) * BabyBox (http://www.babybox.com/) * Baby Center's Store (http://www.store.babycenter.com/) * Baby Depot (http://www.burlingtoncoatfactory.com/IWCatSectionView.process?Section_Id=1395&lc=ln) * Baby Dilly (http://www.babydilly.com/) * Baby Dreams (http://www.babydreams.com/) * Babies R Us (www.babiesrus.com) * Baby Style (http://www.babystyle.com/) * Baby Universe (http://www.babyuniverse.com/) * Carousel Designs (http://www.carouseldesigns.com/) * Dimples & Dandelions (http://www.dimplesanddandelions.com/index.asp) * Dreamtime Baby (http://www.dreamtimebaby.com/) * Elegant Baby (http://www.elegantbabygifts.com/) * Fisher Price (http://www.fisher-price.com/us/default.asp) * Gap (http://www.gap.com/) * Graco (http://www.gracobaby.com/default.aspx) * Gymboree (www.gymboree.com) * In The Treetop (http://www.inthetreetop.com/default.aspx) * JCPenney (www.jcpenney.com) * Land of Nod (http://www.landofnod.com/) * Little Show Offs (http://www.littleshowoffs.com/) * Net Kids Wear (http://www.netkidswear.com/) * Nursery Depot (http://www.nurserydepot.com/) * Old Navy (www.oldnavy.com) * One of a Kind (http://www.oneofakindkid.com/) * One Step Ahead (http://www.onestepahead.com) * Pokkadots (http://www.pokkadots.com/index.cfm) * Pottery Barn Kids (http://www.potterybarnkids.com/) * Signature Baby (http://www.signaturebaby.com/) * Target Baby (http://www.target.com) * The Baby Marketplace (http://www.thebabymarketplace.com/) * The Children's Place (http://www.childrensplace.com/) * Tutti Bella (http://www.tuttibella.com/) * Wendy Bellissimo (http://www.wendybellissimo.com/home/index.php) * Overview Baby Skin Products (http://www.cosmeticscop.com/learn/article.asp?PAGETYPE=ART&REFER=SKIN&ID=14)

Delivery/Birthing Options (OB, Midwives, Doulas, birthcenters, etc.)
birthcenters.org (http://www.birthcenters.org/) * American College of Obstetrics & Gynocology (http://www.acog.org/) * American College of Nurse-Midwives (http://www.acnm.org/) * Maternitywise (http://www.maternitywise.org/) * Lamaze (http://www.lamaze.org/) * Bradley Birth (http://www.bradleybirth.com/) * Birthing FromWithin (http://www.birthingfromwithin.com/) *
Birthworks (http://www.birthworks.com/) * HypBirth (http://hypbirth.com/) * HypnoBirthing (http://www.hypnobirthing.com/) * Assn. of Labor Assts. & Childbirth Educators (http://www.alace.org/) * International Childbirth Education Assn. (http://www.icea.org/) * Water Birth (http://waterbirth.org/spa/index.php) * DONA Intl. (http://www.dona.org/)

Breastfeeding
Ameda (www.ameda.com) * Breastfeeding (www.breastfeeding.com) * Boppy (www.boppy.com) * KellyMom (www.kellymom.com) * La Leche League (www.lalecheleague.org) * Maternal Concepts (www.maternalconcepts.com) * Medela (www.medela.com) * Mothering (www.mothering.com) * ProMom (www.promom.org) * Whisper Wear (www.whisperwear.com)

Formula Feeding
Bright Beginnings (www.brightbeginnings.com) * Enfamil (www.enfamil.com) * Similac (www.similac.com) * Very Best Baby (Nestle Good Start) (www.verybestbaby.com)

Diapering Info
Some have coupons & contests
Cloth Diapering (http://www.borntolove.com/404page.html) * Huggies (www.huggies.com) * Luvs (www.luvs.com) * Pampers (www.pampers.com)

Slings
The Hip Hugger (www.thehiphugger.com) * About Babies Inc. (www.aboutbabiesinc.com) * Maya Wrap (www.mayawrap.com) * New Native Baby (www.newnativebaby.com) * Prenatal Cradle (www.prenatalcradle.com) * Baby Bjorn (www.babybjorn.com) * Baby Wearer (www.babywearer.com)

Cord Blood/Stem Cell Info.
Secureacell (www.secureacell.com) * Viacord (www.viacord.com) * Cord Blood (www.cordblood.com) * Cryobank (www.cryobank.com) * Life Bank USA (www.lifebankusa.com) * Corcell (www.corcell.com) * Cryo-Cell (www.cryo-cell.com)

Invitations/Announcements
2Peas1Pod (http://2peas1pod.com/) * 5StarBaby (http://5StarBaby.com) * BabyGrams (www.babygrams.com) * Baby J Cards (www.babyjcards.com) * Bella Baby (www.bellababy.com) * Celebration Cottage (www.celebrationcottage.com) * Classic Card Company (www.classiccard.com) * In A Baby Carriage (www.inababycarriage.com) * Invitation Box (www.invitationbox.com) * Inviting Smiles (www.invitingsmiles.com) * MetroBaby Cards (www.metrobabycards.com) * Mommy's Miracles (www.mommysmiracles.com) * My Gatsby (www.mygatsby.com) * Naptime Cards (www.naptimecards.com) * Photo Stamps (http://photo.stamps.com/PhotoStamps/?source=si10985886) * Purple Stork (www.purplestork.com) * Custom Craft (http://www.shopbirthannouncements.com/) * Simply To Impress (www.simplytoimpress.com) * Stork Avenue (www.storkavenue.com) * Tiny Prints (www.tinyprints.com)

Monitors
BabyBeat (www.babybeat.com) * Belly Beats (www.bellybeats.com) * Stork Radio (www.storkradio.com)

Fun Stuff
Jewel Kids (www.jewelkids.com)Lifetime Mothers (www.lifetimemothers.com) * Baby Pool (Have friends compete in a baby due date contest) (http://www.expectnet.com/)

[Pamela]

Wheeee! Second trimester!!

Threadmistress, please update my age to 26 in this thread also :)

[Ericka_Jarett]

My OB appt went well today also. Doctor couldn't get the heartbeat on the doppler again, so she turned on the u/s machine and we saw the baby just lying there (apparently sleeping) she started to push a little harder, jiggle my stomach a little and say come on baby move for me. As soon as she did that, the baby jumped and started moving it's arms up and down and than did a flip, we got to see the heartbeating through the fuzzy screen. Still couldn't hear the heartbeat as the machine is older than dirt and doesn't have sound. (grainy pics on the screen so I couldn't get a pic to post.)

She asked if I was going to do the nuchal and I said no. She said good, she wasn't going to recommend it. I said I hear of so many false positives and she said yup, that's why I don't want you to get it. I have enough going on without having to worry about the outcome of that for the next few months. :)

[maplekitty]

Are we posting here now?
Threadmistress, can you please use my last u/s pic and my last belly pic for the first page :) And my next OB appnt is April 13th. And also, can you update that my gender prediction is BOY - I'm just feeling boy these days.

[Lily]

Thank you ladies so much for the compliments on my u/s.

pamela - Happy belated birthday. :)

Ericka - Sorry to hear about the gestational diabetes. I have to admit that I'm a little worried about that too.

maplekitty - Sorry to hear about your rash. I hope that you're feeling better. Your u/s pic was so cute.

lawgirl - I'm so glad that your nuchal appt. went so well. Very cute u/s pic too.

Not too much to report on my end. I have to work all weekend which kind of bums me out. Hopefully the time will pass quickly. Has anyone bought/or plans to buy the book Baby Bargains? I've heard that it has really good information.

[MichelleRenee]

Do we all post here now or just those of us who are officially in the second trimester?

[Lily]

MichelleRenee - This thread is officially open for all Oct. '06 Mommies. I think we were just waiting for the first Oct. Mom to begin the second trimester before opening.

[MamaBear]

Wow! The 2nd trimester thread. I can't believe that we are already here. I can't believe how fast this pregnancy is going!

Lily- I bought the Baby Bargains book last time. I thought that it was very helpful. It has alot of good info in it.

Erika- Sorry about the GD. The diet sounds very strict, but just think of the outcome!

Beautiful u/s pics Lawgirl, Maplekitty, and Lily!

Old QOTD- Finding out the sex- YES!! I need to know. If I don't, it will drive me crazy! If baby doesn't give up the goods, then I will just have to wait- and beg for the dr. to give me another u/s.

As for me- another week over. I actually had a pretty good week. I am feeling better every day. Still really tired, but not as pukey. I had to call and change my nuchal translucency appt.. Threadmistress, can you please change the date from 4/3 to 4/10. They weren't able to get my referral in time. I am kind of bummed, but it is just another week.

Have a wonderful weekend! Don't forget to set your clocks ahead an hour tomorrow. The time change is going to really mess me up! I hope that I can adjust quickly this time. Talk to you later.

Sara

[MichelleRenee]

Thanks for clearing that up.

I am 10w1d today and I feel pretty good! Mike is coming home tonight or tomorrow morning. He's been gone for a week now, so I miss him. When he gets home we are starting the long process of clearing out the baby's room. We basically have to rearrange our whole apartment so it's going to be a process. I am dying to know if Reesie is a boy or a girl so we can paint! That is going to be my favorite part.

Our hand-me-down collection is growing. I have a ton of (boy) clothes for 0-3 months from my sister. Some of them can be for a boy or girl. We got a crib for free from a friend, and my sister is giving me a swing, a carseat, and anything else her 4 month old outgrows in the next few months. While I would love to turn down all of this and just register for all new stuff I know it is best to accept what I am offered and then register for the rest.

I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend! Congrats to all those who officially hit the second trimester! I can't wait to join you!

[marathongirl]

Yeah for the second tri!!! :D Although this pregnancy is flying by for me! Happy April Fools' Day!

lawgirl - yeah for the nuchal!

maplekitty - sorry about the rash!

ericka_jarrett - glad you got to see the baby again!

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

Threadmistress - please update my DH's age to 33. Thanks!

[lawgirl4]

just a request - when we go into the 3rd trimester thread, can we just get a 24 hour "warning" about that? I was the last poster in the 1st tri thread and I would have just waited until this morning had I known the thread was going to be closed imminently. I wouldn't want anyone's post to be missed! thanks!! :)

And thus, I will repost my last post here!

"exciting news! everything went very well at my Nuchal test today! What a relief. The chances for Downs or the Trisomy disorders are now reduced to less than 1 in 10000, which is the best result you can possibly get.

For those who are interested - they want the measurement of the nuchal fold to be between 1-3mm, ideally between 1-2. Our baby's measured 1.5mm.

So, at this point, no need for an amnio. My DH had blood drawn to see if he is a carrier for the same genetic disease as I, but the chances he is are very low. We'll have those results in about a week and a half.

Again, whew!!!

The u/s was amazing this time - the baby is so obviously a baby now! It is measuring 5.84cm, which is 12w2d - right on target. We saw the hands, profile, legs kicking, heart beating, spine, etc...

here are some pics - in the first you can see the hand by the head/nose:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/preggo/mar31bedit.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/preggo/mar31c.jpg

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

So did we ever reach a consensus on when the 2nd tri actually starts? Someone told me it's 13w2d, or 13w3d... either way, yippee that we are all almost there!!! :) (and congrats to those who are already there!!!) :)

[Pamela]

I consider my second trimester to officially begin today at 13weeks 3days.

Here's my pic

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y145/MrsPamela/Baby/13weeks3days.jpg

[MidwesternGal]

Hi October Mommies!

Well, things here are moving along. We're telling our friends who are having fertility probs on Thursday night, before we tell everyone else on Friday. My parents will find out next Sunday (9th), and DH's will find out on Easter! I'm nervous and kind of excited to tell people. . . although I know our lives will become much more um. . . annoying, because our families will drive us bonkers! (1st grandkid on both sides!)

I'm glad it's April, because that means garage sale season starts soon, and hopefully I can find a changing table and dresser, along with some nice used clothes!

Question: Is anyone else still having occasional sharp pains? I had several yesterday along my lower abdomen, like someone was putting needles/sharp pressure on me. . . it was right around where the doctor heard the heartbeat on Tuesday. But they were brief and didn't hurt too much.

Today we're going to a movie and relaxing. I love escaping at the movies. . . maybe we'll go out and get Mexican. . . I have been craving a shredded beef chimicanga! Yum!

[lawgirl4]

midwesterngal - I've been having some weird "sharp-ish" pains where my legs meet my torso - my guess is that it's muscle stretching. hope that it doesn't bother you too much!!

[MichelleRenee]

I get a lot of overall cramping from right under my boobs all the way down through my pelvis. It is achiness combined with occasional sharp-ish pains. I think it is definitely just my muscles growing and stretching.

Question: How is everyone feeling about baby names?

With a ton of babies on the way in our families we wanted to choose/claim our baby names early. Back arouns October we chose a boy name and a girl name and were both pretty happy with them. (Tristan Michael and Isabella Christine) Now I spend a ton of time trying to think of a "better" name. I am fine with our boy name but I still have dozens of girl names that I love and want to use! So I tell myself not to stress until I know it is a girl, but I still think about names all the time. Anyone else?

[Pamela]

Sharp pains, yup, been having those for awhile. I'm guessing a lot of them are round ligament pain and other things hurting from stretching. Sometimes my whole uterus feels really sore, like its being stretched out big time (which it is). It can get pretty uncomfortable, but doesn't last too long.

Names, we've got a name picked out, but won't be sharing with anyone until after I deliver.


I am so tired today! We were just running around the backyard with a can of spraypaint (haha!) planning out where we want flower beds to go, and man am I pooped! And we only did half of it 'cause we ran out of paint! So while DH is out getting more paint, I'm just gonna sit with my feet up. Mr. Sympathetic is not impressed and says I should get out and do more, and I guess he's right. I've been taking it really easy (doctor's orders!), but now that I've hit the second trimester and everything's ok, I'd like to be out taking walks and start doing prenatal yoga.

[maplekitty]

Here's my latest belly pics
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid203/pe65ae22943a1ef3483c39e15209f475d/ef9d2a5b.jpg

QOTD: We'll also be keeping the name a secret until after birth :)

[marathongirl]

sharp pains - not too bad. But my sciatic has really been acting up lately so the pain is in my butt, not my belly.

pamela & maplekitty - you guys look great!

Names - no clue yet. We've tossed a few around, but are no where close to deciding on one. We probably won't tell my MIL what we've picked b/c she was not shy about telling us how much she disliked DD's name :rolleyes: and gave us endless alternatives that she liked better.

[MichelleRenee]

There is always someone who has something mean to say about a name we like. We will probably keep our decision to ourselves until the baby is born. I think it is harder for people to diss a name after it actually belongs to the new baby.

I think m/s has made a small comeback. I've been a little queasy the last two days. Eating doesn't quite seem to make it go away like it used to. I hope it doesn't get too bad again. I was actually starting to enjoy being pregnant!

[maplekitty]

So is anyone in our group having twins?? There are a lot of people who don't post regularly....are you all not posting cause you're still getting over the shock of two babies? :p


I had a twin dream the other night....even though I *KNOW* I'm not ahving twins. I dreamt that they were both born at 8 1/2 lbs each, LOL and were a completely different ethnicity than Curt or I, lol.....and then it was like a comedy sketch of us trying to get two car seats into the car. Anyways....it made me wonder if anyone is going to be an October twin momma??

[MichelleRenee]

10w2d

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v498/AngelyWangely/Belly%20Shots/DSC00255.jpg

[Quartercentury]

I can't believe some of us are in the second trimester already! I won't get there for another three weeks, and am trying to keep myself from getting overconfident, as a woman in my due date group on mothering.com very sadly miscarried over the weekend.

I haven't been posting too much lately, but I am not, as far as I know, having twins! Yikes!!!

I finally had my first prenatal appointment last week, which was very low key (and therefore exactly what I was hoping for). No blood draws or anything. Mostly just filling in paperwork and mutual reassurance that first babies can be born at home and that this group of midwives will support my plans for a home birth.

My next regular appointment will be on May 5th, but I am waiting to hear back about scheduling a nuchal translucency test over the next week or so.

I have been getting pulling sort of pains in my lower abdomen, but I think they are growing pains. They are too high to be uterine pains, based on the fact that I can't yet feel my uterus abve my public bone.

We've also been tossing a few names around, but I'm feeling hesitant to share, for exactly the same reason marathongirl and MichelleRenee mentioned. It's like if you tell people your planned names, they feel it's appropriate to offer opinions. We may end up seeking advice eventually, because the name Bailey is in FH's family as a boy's name, and is known in the UK as a boy's name, but seems really popular in the US as a girl's name... And as much as I like the name, I don't want to end up giving my kid a playground complex!

[Jenzen01]

whoo-hoo! it's almost second trimester time!!

not much to report. i left work early on friday because i was so tired. also, the headaches have kicked in. they just come and go, so i haven't taken anything for them yet.

i mouse-proofed our pantry this weekend, so i'm feeling much better about life. that was quite an investment in plastic storage containers, but it's worth it to know the mice won't be snacking on my snacks. :)

names - we used up our boy name, so we have yet to come up with another one. if it's a girl, it will be Grace Adeline. Adeline is a family name, and we both just love Grace.

Jen

[Ericka_Jarett]

names - we don't really have any choosen yet. With Rebekah I prayed one day and that is the one I got, her initials are also my husband's, RJK. My stepson's initials are the same. This next baby I think we will not be coping the same initials, only so many R&J names I like. I won't be using Rebekah or Joy for another daughter, since that was Rebekah's full name. We will tell the baby's name, I don't care what people say, it will be the name the baby is suppose to have. Only 6-7 more weeks until we hopefully find out. if I have to pray for a girl or boy's name :)

Me - I see the speicialist on Tuesday, will have another u/s done from what my OB said. Be nice if it's at the regular lab where I can get a print out of a good pic to post. I have 1 more week until I officially reach the 2nd trimester, although the doctor has me there tomorrow since they have my gestational age a week ahead. The gd diet has been a tough go this weekend, we went shopping for 2 cookbooks yesterday to hopefully help with meal planning, so we don't get bored of the food. Hubby is now on the diet with me as well, to support me.

[lawgirl4]

the secret is out!
I just told my boss that I am pregnant - she was really sweet about it, very happy and kind. I was a little anxious to tell her but it went well. I need to let them know by June if I'll be returning after the baby is born, but for now DH and I are 99% sure that I won't. I would definitely like to come back to this position in the future, but with babies/toddlers, I just don't want to be out of the house from 7:30am - 6pm 5 days a week.

I came back to my office and told my 2 office neighbors that I am pg - one of them had guessed it, and I had been pretty sure she knew. funny!

forgot to add - we heard the heartbeat at the nuchal test ultrasound - DH and I were both like "Whoa! OMG!!" when she turned on the volume! It was amazing!

QOTD - Names - we have ideas, mostly for girl names. Most of the boy names I like are already taken by people in our families so I don't really want to duplicate a name. I am definitely going to have to look at a baby name book to get some ideas!

we do, however, have ideas for their hebrew names. for a boy, probably itzhak herschel (after my grandpa and DH's - their names started with an I and an H respectively) and for a girl, also after our grandfathers: Hannah Irit (possibly, haven't shared the middle name with DH yet! :) In the jewish tradition, you name your children after deceased relatives. I am named after my Dad's mother and I think it is really nice that my first child will be named after my Dad's father.

[lawgirl4]

threadmistress, thanks for the heads up on when the 3rd trimester thread will be starting!! you're great!! :)

[pickle]

So I'm officially in the 2nd trimester now? Yay! However, the baby did not get the memo that morning sickness is supposed to end with the first trimester. I was so sick last night. I think the culprit is a new vitamin--I was trying the ones that also have a capsule of fish oil. Let's just say it didn't sit well. Does anyone have any tips for keeping those down? I think what did me in were the fishy burps. :(

Glad to hear the everyone's recent appointments went well (lawgirl, ericka, quartercentury).

Lily, I just picked up Baby Bargains recently. I haven't really looked at it yet, but all of my friends swear by it.

MidwesternGal, I get a random pain like that once in a while. I just assumed they were round ligament pains, since it doesn't hurt too badly.

Names- We are pretty sure we have a boy name, but are all over the place with girl names. I'm trying not to obsess about it too much until we find out the gender. We won't be telling anyone until after the birth though--I really don't want to hear opinions from anyone other than J. (His are enough to deal with!)

It's rainy and wretched here this morning. Wish I was at home under the covers. Hope you all are having better mornings!

[kenswife]

Woohoo! Second trimester! Well, I guess I'm not "official" until tomorrow but it's fun anyway!

Names - We have a few ideas but nothing concrete yet. I don't think we'll talk seriously about names until we know the gender. I'm not as eager to pick a name this time around.

Just wanted to check in, I'll be back later!

[lawgirl4]

pickle, go buy "omega mom" - available at Whole Foods (I got mine at the Huron store). Also available online here (http://www.vitacost.com/CountryLifePrenatalOmegaMom). NO FISHY BURPING! My OB recommended this brand to me - she used it when pg last year and said it was the only one she came across that didn't "repeat" on her with a fishy taste. I have not had a problem with it at all. and yes, the weather was vile this morning. at least none of that thunder/lightning from last night was left over!

[marathongirl]

Hi all!

Back to the names thing - when we pick a name, we'll probably tell everyone but my MIL. I really don't care if people give opinions, but MIL has an opinion on EVERYTHING and of course hers is always right. Right now, the top of the boy list is Ryan somemiddlename. For girls, we are all over the place.

ericka_jarrett - that's great your DH is following the GD diet with you! I'd want mine to do the same.

pickle - can you take your vitamins immediately before going to bed? And hopefully sleep through the yuckiness?

michellerenee - great belly shot!

jenzen - I love, love, love your girl name!

Hello to everyone else!

[Bubeleh]

I'm so excited, yesterday I finally crossed over into the 2-trimester! I thought this day would never come. Each day seems to crawl by so slowly.

Lawgirl: Congrats on the good test results!

Maple: No twins here. Found that out at the 7W appt when they did an internal. I was so happy. I think two babies at the same time would just be too much for me.

Names: We agreed not to start negotiations until after the big u/s. No need in doing double work for names.

Baby Bargains: I ordered a few things from Amazon and this was one. I've only read like 20 pages, but its pretty interesting. I started getting into the crib reviews yesterday.

My Mom sent me two care packages last week. One had a really cool dvd from discovery channel called "in the womb". Walk you through the whole development process. I would highly recommend it to all of you. The second package had goodies for the baby which was really exciting. A sleeper, the softest blanket I've ever felt, some wash cloths and a bath toy and bibs. It really made the whole experience feel real since it was our first gift.

I've been feeling fine still. My pants are definitly in the last week or so of usage. I have them unbuttoned all the time not. And when I'm not at work I live in sweats.

Hope everyone is out of the M/S era soon!

[MidwesternGal]

Hello all!

pickle--I understand where you're coming from with getting sick after pills. . . .can you buy it in another form? Like an additive to lemonade or something? I know they make green tea extract like that, and it's virutally tasteless.

Have you all seen that thread about what month mommies gained the most weight? I have a feeling mine is going to be the 4th! I somehow gained FIVE pounds in less than a week (and nope, not eating any differently at all). Now, not even my elastic waist pants fit me! I need to find some maternity clothes (well, pants and shorts at least!) ASAP!

We're waiting to hear back about our friend's doctor's appointment today regarding her endometriosis. We hope it's more promising than it sounds, but it's not good. We were going to tell them about the pregnancy on Thursday, but now her Dh's grandma might be dying. . . . and to tell them on top of everything else. . . . so we're going to wait and see how things go for them at the doctor's. Otherwise, we'll wait to announce to our work and them until next week.

Names--I have 2 boys' names I really like: Benjamin and Samuel. I kind of like Caden and Jackson but both are quite popular right now. Middle name will unforutnately have to be FIL's middle name (not because I don't like it but for other reasons--long story). Girls, it's more of a toss up--so far the front runner is Caroline Noelle. Actually, that's probably what it will end up being, since I've read 2 baby name books all ready and nothing really jumps out at me.

ETA: While I will share names online and with friends who aren't living near us, I will not be sharing names with close family or friends until the baby is here. No need to hear negative thoughts on what I all ready have chosen.

[pickle]

Thanks for the tip, lawgirl! I was planning to hit Whole Foods this week anyway, so I'll pick those up.

And thanks for the suggestion, marathongirl. Unfortunately, that's what I've been doing, and while it worked at first, last night I was praying to the porcelain gods by midnight. :( I think I'll stick with the night-time pill-taking, but just cross these vitamins off my list!

ETA- We cross-posted, midwesterngal. That's a really good idea, I might have to try it!

[emermel]

I can't believe that it is/almost 2nd trimester already! In retrospect, time is going really fast!

So I must be officially showing. I told some friends on Friday that I was pg and they said that they thought so. Another friend today asked me when I was going to tell her my news. I asked her if the other friends had told her and she said no, but they confirmed it.

I went and got some maternity clothes at Old Navy today. I am so frustrated with them. I live in Arizona and they don't have any shorts in yet...it's supposed to be 87 degrees today!!!! What the heck am I supposed to wear?? I got some skirts and a tank top, so hopefully that will hold me over. I think that I'll probably check out Kohls this week too.

Sorry to hear about folks m/s for some folks. Hopefully it will go away VERY soon.

Have a great day everyone!

[bunnybeth]

Went out this weekend to get transitional pants and found some maternity pants that pretty much fit me. I'm actually wearing maternity pants now... crazy. They're a little bit big in the belly, but it's so nice not to be pinched all day.

Names We've got short lists for both genders right now, and will add to it as we think of new ones. Serious narrowing down will take place after the big u/s. We're keeping it all secret because we don't want to be influenced in any way. But, I will say we are avoiding all top 10 names from the past couple of years. I like to be unique.

My next OB appointment is April 26

[jenniferlynne]

Hi everyone!

I know I'm one of the ones who doesn't post very often but it's not because I'm too overwhelmed by having twins. I suppose I could be since I still haven't had an ultrasound yet, but I don't think so. Our nanny keeps telling me she thinks I am having twins because I'm already showing so much and I eat constantly but I don't think that's it! I hope not! What are the odds of having twins, anyone know?

Names: This will be hard, I know. Last time DH and I could only agree on one single boy name (William Elliot) and now that we've used that one up, I don't know what we'll do if we have another boy! I think a girl name would be easier, but we're not even going to think about this till we know the gender.

M/S: mine seemed to vanish for a few days last week (not entirely gone but so much better that I was actually a little worried and kind of hoping to feel sick again). Be careful what you wish for! I don't understand why it comes and goes like this. Does it have to do with hormone levels?

Baby Bargains: This is the ONE baby book I recommend wholeheartedly. There is so much stuff to buy, so it's really helpful to have a knowledgeable, common-sense guidebook, and this one is great. Whenever I'm at Babies R Us I always see couples walking around the store registering with a copy of BB in their hands!

Maternity clothes: I'm in maternity pants now pretty much full-time. Most of my pants won't even zip anymore, and if they do, they're so uncomfortable that I can't stand them. I was trying to hold out till the second tri to dig out my maternity clothes but I just couldn't wait any longer. That said, I went though all my old stuff and so much of it is stained, ugly or boring, so I know I'm going to have to go shopping pretty soon.

Headaches: Yes!! I have one now, and I had one last week that lasted four days. :eek: I think my headaches might be related to the fact that I am definitely not drinking enough fluids. I always get headaches if I don't drink enough, but drinking anything right now makes me feel so sick. I'm trying, but I'd almost rather have the headache!

Threadmistress: My nuchal translucency appointment is April 11th, and my next OB appointment is April 24th

[Michelle]

Today was the first day that I've called in sick to work since I've found out that we're pregnant. All weekend I was exhausted but could not sleep, headache, and dizzy. I'm not feeling good at all. I can't tell if this is pregnancy related or just the crud. The worst part of being sick while pregnant is that there's not a lot you can do to make you feel better. Normally I would take NyQuill and sleep. Unfortunately, that's not an option!

Names: We have two names that we have always liked. Matt has always liked the name Logan and I've always liked Madison. So more than likely we will use those names, but they are not set in stone. My grandma started a tradition where the middle name of the baby is the mom or dads first name. Since I'm the only one in the family to pass that tradition on, we're going to do it. So the baby would probably be Logan Matthew or Madison Michelle.

I hope that everybody is doing well. I'll try to come back and do replies later. Right now I'm going to sleep!

[MichelleRenee]

I kind of go from regular pants with a rubber band through the button hole to maternity and back. It seems like I just can't get comfortable or it just doesn't ever look right. Today I wore a polo shirt my sister gave me to work. It is long so it covers my waistband completely without riding up over my belly. I am going to try to buy a few more of these because it seems to be the best way to go. It will cover pants held together by a rubber band or full paneled maternity pants.

[Pamela]

I had my belly patted for the first time! It was so weird too, since I'm not even showing or anything. I had just got to work and one of the girls on day shift was saying how exciting it is that I'm pregnant and she patted my belly! I do hope its not a trend though.

Maplekitty, no twins here! I am glad of it too, one baby will be enough!

Bubeleh, I've seen In the Womb a couple of times on tv now, its a neat show!

[Ericka_Jarett]

belly pats - I would tell people, to please not touch my belly. I don't care for that and neither does the baby :) With my first pregnancy I was showing but people didn't touch me. I think it's inconsiderate of a stranger to do that to someone. They wouldn't touch your stomach if you were not pregnant, they shouldn't when you are.

[Quartercentury]

I have a question for those of you who have had or will have the nuchal translucency test: are you having the scan alone, or are you having the scan combined with a blood test?
I am planning to have the combined test done, but I had never heard of it before my midwife mentioned it to me. Which seems odd, as she says it's much more accurate than the scan alone!

pickle, you could also try a non-fish source of omegas, such as flax seed oil. I think hemp seed oil also has omega 3s.

I am so far away from maternity clothes... I had a "tight trouser day" (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v448/quartercentury/October%202006%20Pumpkin/10weeks4daystighttrouserday.jpg) last week, and was horribly bloated by the end of the day, but in general, I am feeling the same in the belly as ever. Sigh.

[Rippy1010]

SHOES ...

Are there any teachers out there, or anyone else that has to stand all day? What shoes do you wear to stay comfy? I can't wear sneakers every day, and I have to be standing. I am TRULY crying every night when I get home from foot pain ...

Any suggestions?

[marathongirl]

qc - I had the scan plus blood test done.

rippy - sorry about your achy feet! I don't have any shoe suggestions though :( .

belly patting/rubbing - oohhhhh, I can't stand this!!!! I warned all my friends not to do it and one insisted upon it anyway. I nearly pulled her arm out of the socket getting her hand off my stomach. I'm not a touchy-feely person and this just fires me up :mad: ! My very best friend asked if she could feel the baby kick and I did let her, but she *asked* first.

Well, I broke out the maternity jeans this morning. My regular clothes are way too tight, but my maternity clothes are too big still. I can't keep wearing the same pair of transition pants every day.

Speaking of twins - (just one baby for us!) the lady who was before me for the nuchal trans had just found out she was having twins. She was running all over the place. I guess it was a huge surprise. I did have a dream the other night that I gave birth to twins.

Hope everyone is doing well!

[Jenzen01]

marathongirl - I'm with you on the clothes problem. Seriously, I have one pair of regular pants left. I just ruled out my second pair this morning. So, I pulled out maternity, even though it's a bit big. I hate this transition stage. It's definitely happening faster the second time around.

Rippy - What about some of those gel inserts? I was thinking about that last week when I worked a show. My feet were killing me by the end of the day, and I thought I'd try those the next time around.

belly patting - I don't mind. Well, this early would be sort of weird, but when I am further along, I don't mind people touching because I like sharing the baby's movement.

That's about it from here. It's starting to warm up here in Wisconsin. It might reach 60 tomorrow. Oh bliss.

Jen

[lawgirl4]

qc - I had the combined screen (nuchal, free beta hCG, and PAPP-A). It gives you a much clearer reading. Our genetic counselor also said that if you do the Quad Screen later on, they add in those results and again, you have an even clearer picture. Since none of these tests are yes/no, it helps to have as many factors to evaluate as possible. FYI, with our NT ultrasound, the tech also looked for and noted the Nasal Bone - apparently in Downs babies the NB is underdeveloped or absent. Make sure they look for that too.

pants are officially an issue! - I only have 2 that fit "comfortably." (They had been a size too big pre-pg). All of the maternity pants I have are spring/summer weight - still too cold here to wear them! I had bought 2 pairs of gap maternity cords and 1 pair of black mat pants from ebay, but they were way too long on me; thankfully I am picking them up from the tailor's tonight! yippee, comfortable pants for the rest of this week. :)

belly patting/touching - I don't know how I'll feel about that. I guess if it's by someone I don't really know I won't like it... or if people touch without asking... but for close friends and family I don't think I'll mind.

[pickle]

QC- I had both the scan and the blood test. (Actually, I should just "ditto" what lawgirl said, as we went to the same doc.)

Belly patting- Those of you who have been able to avoid this are lucky! I've gotten a lot. Mostly from my ILs, which makes it much harder to say something. And I'm usually so surprised that I'm speechless! I think it would be easier to deal with if I was bigger. (Check back with me in a few months to see if I'm still saying that, though!)

Tight trousers- I have a handful of pants that still fit, but pretty much all of my skirts are done. Plus wearing tights/nylons is so uncomfortable! Yesterday was the last day I will attempt that. I couldn't wait to get home and take the stupid things off. Hopefully it will warm up soon so I can go bare-legged with no worries. :)

[maplekitty]

belly pats - none here yet, thank goodness. I'm ok with close friends or close family patting if they ask first. But I cant stand the idea of *strangers* patting my belly, I'd probably have a few choice words for them! :p

comfy shoes - I just bought a pair of crocs (www.crocs.com) - the beach sandals. They are so comfy!! I know my feet are going to majorly swell this summer so I needed to find a pair of comfy shoes pronto as our weather is slowly getting nicer and flip flops are out of the question.

[Pamela]

Ericka_Jarrett, thats good advice about unwanted belly patting.

Quartercentury, I'm doing the quad screen (blood test) at about 16 weeks, but not the nuchal translucency. I'll have a level 2 ultrasound somewhere between 16 and 20 weeks. I think you and I are in the same boat belly-wise. Everytime I think I see some growth, it disappears!

Rippy, I spend long hours on my feet at work and wear Dansko clogs. They're pricy, but very comfortable and they were so worth it for me.

belly pats, I'm hoping that first pat was the last one. I'm also not a touchy feely person and am dreading people wanting to pat and rub my tummy. I'm sure more than one person is going to end up with their hands slapped.

[MichelleRenee]

My appointment was canceled today and rescheduled for April 11.

That's two appointments I've had and both have been rescheduled. What a PITA.

[Nigellas]

I had another great US today. :D The kid was moving like crazy- It was awesome! One of these days I'll have to scan in my pictures. It's really cool to see the progression.


MichelleRenee - that seriously blows that your appointment got rescheduled. I know how anxious/excited I get for mine, I can't imagine having to wait longer! Ugh!

belly pats - Just my mom so far, but she's funny like that. She always walks up to my belly and goes "Helllllooooooooooo in there!"

pants - Uh, ow. I'm guessing it's a combo of me having been pregnant before and being pretty short, but I feel huge already. My pants are very uncomfortable. I've been living in gauchos. They are a dream.

[MidwesternGal]

Hello all!

Rippy--My mom is a teacher and has lots of feet problems. She wears tons of Born brand shoes (around 80-100 each) and lots of Naturalizer shoes. She chases 1st graders all over, so she doesn't wear heels at all.

Belly Pats--In no shape or way will people be allowed to touch my belly. Not my mom, in-laws, close friends or anyone. I'm NOT comfortable with that at all.

Maternity Pants--Yesterday we had a clothing crisis of sorts at my house, with the pms/bloat elastic waist pants not even fitting. . . so we did an emergency run to Target and Kohls. Kohls is having a 2 for 1 sale in their maternity section!! I got a pair of jeans at Target and 2 pairs of shorts at Kohls. T-shirts I'm going to wait on and can hopefully find some at garage sales this sumemr. . . even a size XXL or plus sized would be fine with me, for T's they don't have to be maternity.

I'll try to post a picture here soon. I've really "popped" out over the weekend.

Question: I keep reading about some moms feeling the uterus moving above the pelvic bone. . . what in the world does THAT feel like? I cannot lie on my stomach anymore and I've kinda popped out in the last few days. . . does that mean my uterus is above my pelvic bone now? Or how do you know?

[Pamela]

uterus growing, I've actually been able to palpate my uterus for quite a while now, and its neat to see how its getting bigger and higher (it must be getting higher because my back pain is oh so much better these days and I think I'm even hitting the bathroom slightly less often). If you want to try and feel yours, its easiest to do it when you're lying flat. If you can't feel it, no biggie, its there :)

[lawgirl4]

shoes - I am raving about this brand: Softspots. I bought their Sugar Flip-flops (http://www.footsmart.com/Product.aspx?ProductId=2189) for my trip to India (lots of walking all over the place on not-so-great floors/roads) and they were like heaven. I have a feeling I'll be living in them this summer...

[Sua]

Thank you threadmistresses for the new hang out! :D

Bubeleh - In the Womb is so cool! I've seen it on tv, what a great gift from your mom!

Pamela - I hope that you're right and the belly rubbing was a one time thing. It is weird for someone not to ask before touching, I think!

QC - I am doing the blood test and the nt scan as well.

Rippy - Sorry your feet are bothering you. I second Pamela's rec. for Dansko clogs (they have other more sandal-ish styles for summer), very comfy.

Marathongirl - I agree with you, the transition phase is happening much earlier this time. I am down to just a few things to wear as well.

Jenzen - Hope you are enjoying the nice weather! It is wonderful here today too.

Maplekitty - I like my crocs too. Too bad they are so darn ugly! It wont stop me from wearing them this summer though!

MichelleRenee - Sorry your appt got moved again, that'd tick me off too!

Nigellas - Congrats on the great u/s!

Lawgirl - Oooh, more comfy flip-flops and they're on sale! :) So much more fun to shoe shop than for maternity clothes, this transition stage is no fun.

Jeant - Hope all is going well with your book activities! Congrats! I think I am going to order a maternity lap suit from Land's End. They have basic tank style suits that should be okay. They must be discontinuing their maternity line because the maternity stuff is only in the "overstocks" section, but the prices are right ($15-$25).

Taterbaby - As long as we still have m/s we have the right to be cranky, I think! Hope you're felling better!

We had an appointment this morning and all looks well. The heartbeat wasnt hard to find and it was 160. My son's was never over 140, so maybe there's a girl in there? My NT scan is on Thursday.

Names - I will probably discuss my name ideas here when I get some. We will wait for we find out the gender before any serious name discussions take place. My first thoughts are Bennett or Annika. With my son, we had a list of three names to "test drive" in the hospital, so I doubt we will make any final decisions before we see the babe in person.

Take care all! :D

[Ericka_Jarett]

Had my perinatalogist appt today.

The u/s looked good, the baby was wiggling all over so the tech was having a hard time showing me everything and getting measurements. Baby is measuring right on target for 13w 1d. legs were going so fast and the head is perfect. I have another u/s in 3 weeks and than another 2 weeks later and than the big one 2 weeks later. The first 2 will be apparently vaginal ones, he wants to make sure that I don't have a cervix opening issue. The last one is for checking all major organs and such.

He said Rebekah did pass from the infection but there are 5 things that could have caused it to happen. Other than that he wants to nip this diabetes before it causes an issue and will keep a check on everything closely.

[bunnybeth]

No time to be chatty today, but I wanted to drop off my belly shots. :D

http://bunnybeth.net/images/pregnancy/belly_5w10w.jpg

[maplekitty]

Maplekitty - I like my crocs too. Too bad they are so darn ugly! It wont stop me from wearing them this summer though!



haha, yes my DH thinks they are ugly too, but I love them, I don't care. I don't think they are that bad, they are quite popular here in Vancouver.

[Maxicat]

I am set up next Tuesday for all the major tests. Because of my advanced age (bite me) they are really recommending that I have them.

I outgrew most of my pants 2 weeks ago, I have been living in skirts and dresses. I figure I have 2 weeks left with these. My weight gain has sadly been quite impressive.

Has anybody thought of changing jobs while pg? I have decided that I want a new career. I am being told by people though that no one would hire me because of my situation. Is it so wrong to maybe not mention it?

[Bubeleh]

Maxicat - I would definitly tell them. They can't dsiregard you as an applicant based on your pregnancy status. Also be very upfront with them on how much time you plan to take off, if you want to come back full or part time, and how flexibile you can be. If you don't tell them and you get hired, it will be a very bad way to start a new career/job. Just my opinion as an ex HR executive.

Nice pics Bunnyneth you are really started to pop out a bit!

Congrats on the u/s Erika, are you going to post a pic?

I'm heading to the gym! Hope everyone has a great evening.

[Ericka_Jarett]

Thanks Bubeleh. I won't be posting this u/s as the picture is not very good. You really can't make anything out in it. Not sure why the tech gave me a pic like this because she had better ones. Since I am having another one in 3 weeks, will see if that one is better. The baby will be 16 weeks. Hope that the rest of the pics are better than today's printout.

The baby was really wiggling around though. She showed me the spine real quick because the baby flipped. This baby is acting like Rebekah did, flipping and trying to get away constantly from the tech. The tech said after 20 weeks it will be easier to get the pics as the baby starts to loss some space because of growing. It should be interesting to see the baby's growth over 7 weeks in 3 different u/s. (16, 18, 20 weeks)

Was thinking on the way home today that next week I see the OB that I saw for the first time with Rebekah. I found out I was pregnant around 14 weeks with Rebekah and next week when I see this doctor I will be 14 weeks. Weird how it just happened to be scheduled like this.

[MichelleRenee]

Maxicat, I found out I was pregnant my second week at a new job. I really struggled with figuring out when to tell them because I felt so new, but they were fine with it. Some people told me not to tell them, but they'd realize it eventually and I figure it is better to be honest from the start. I got really lucky though because my boss is really understanding. I get the feeling that not everyone will be so understanding.

I am so tired of heartburn!! I struggled with horrible, horrible acid reflux over the summer. I had actually lost 13 pounds because of it. (which is a lot when you are at 103 to begin with) It finally went away when I started taking Pepcid AC daily. Pregnancy brought it back. I got a list from my dr's office of what I can take and Pepcid AC isn't on the list. I was going to ask about it today but my appt was canceled. I hate not being able to sleep at night!

[Ericka_Jarett]

MichelleRenee - my list says the following are safe to use, maybe one of these will help:

Tums, Rolaids, Gas-X, Mylanta, Tagamet, Zantac. Just make sure to not use Pepto-Bismol as it has aspirin.

[Quartercentury]

Before ultrasound, measuring fundal height was one of the chief ways of determining when a baby was due - at some point (20 weeks, maybe?) the number of centimeters between the fundus (top of the uterus) and the pubic bone becomes equal to the number of weeks of gestation (except at the end, when the baby drops a bit). Here's (http://connection.lww.com/Products/timbyessentials/Ch01/jpg/01_004.jpg) a pretty good drawing. I *think* I can feel the top of my uterus now, just above my pubic hair line (I'm 11 weeks and change). But I'm not sure that's it. I will definitely ask my midwife to show me how to find it at my next appointment. I'll be just about 16 weeks then, so it should be easy to find.

I spilled the beans about the baby to the directors of my group at work yesterday. They were surprised, and I got a few "congratulations" and one "blimey." I could have technically kept it a secret for several more weeks (both in terms of my contract and the fact that I'm not showing yet), but they are interviewing for new people on Monday and Tuesday, and I wanted them to know that it's possible I could be out for a year from October.

I'm going in for my pre-nuchal scan blood work on Monday, and then my nuchal translucency scan will be on the 13th of April.

And of course, because I told the bosses that I'm pregnant and scheduled the NT test on the same day, I can't help but feeling like something is going to go wrong with the baby or the job. Yikes. I am not normally so much of a worrier.

[nutter13]

Good morning!

I don't post very often, but I do follow along....

No twins for us either. I'm just waiting on my appt. next week on Wednesday. M/s is starting to fade, which is a good thing but it kind of makes me worry more as well. With DC#1 I rented a doppler at 10 weeks which helped a lot. I may get one this time as well, but I'm trying to hold off. I started feeling DD at 15 weeks so not too long now....I love that reassuring feeling when you can feel the baby move every day :)

Names, we still have the same boys name as last time, still unsure about a girls name.

I caught the colds that DH and DD had last week. I was trying so hard to not get it, now I have a cough which seems to get worse during the day. All this coughing has me worried as well, can it be bad for the baby, does anyone know? I'm guessing everything is just fine, just my crazy prego hormones making me worry extra!

Hope everyone has a great day :)

[Sua]

MichelleRenee - Have you ever tried papaya enzymes for heartburn? I had horrible reflux with my first pregnancy and I thought the enzymes helped quite a bit. I found them at my grocery store near the vitamins and herbs. Also, when my hb was terrible, my doctor told me to quit drinking milk. That was a surprise to me, I was drinking milk to help, but cutting it out helped me a lot.

Nutter - I am also excited to feel baby kicks! I hope it happens soon, it is such a reassuring feeling. I am ready for the baby to reassure me that all is well with some gentle kicks instead of the constant nausea. :p

Maxicat - Good luck with the career change! I'd probably tell them about the pregnancy, if it is a job you'd like to return to after the baby.

[She-Ra]

No twins here! I was out of town for a few days & just realized there was a new thread!

I had the Nuch. U/s & blood test on Friday. Baby I was in "perfect" position, so the tech asked me & brought in students & the Dr to practice their measurements.

Part of me was paranoid there was something wrong, and she needed a 2nd opinion, but they were all joking and laughing at how accomodating I was, so I think my baby was just actually "perfectly positioned."

Other than that, nothing going on except for this baby's continual desire for fast food. I swear my being happy over my 1lb gain is going to bite me in the ass next month when I gain 15!

Gotta Run!

[lawgirl4]

just returned from my April appt!

All was well - as soon as my Dr placed the doppler on my belly the heartbeat started whooshing away. :) And as soon as she touched my belly and felt my uterus she said "wow, you're getting bigger!" hee hee! goodie! :)

I gained 3 pounds since my last visit, 4 weeks ago. She said that was good. I was glad - I thought I might have gained as much as 6 lbs! Whew.

And... I get to stop using my progesterone! I'm a little nervous about this but also glad.

my next appointment is May 2nd - 17 weeks! Can you believe that by then most of us will have noticeably pregnant bellies?

Fyi - for those who are interested/concerned - my Dr said that we don't need to be concerned about sleeping position until 20-24 weeks. For now, just sleep in the way you are most comfortable.

Got to run and do some work - I was out all morning so I'm a bit busy now!

[lawgirl4]

bumping us back to the first page!!!! I guess we all had a busy day today!! :)

[marathongirl]

Good morning!

So happy to hear everyone is having good appts!

Maxicat - I highly doubt I will return to my old career when I do return to work. I suppose I've had a career change of sorts since I've been a SAHM for 10 months, but my dream is to start my own business.

she-ra - that's cool you got to be the 'guinea pig' for students to practice on!

nutter - I'm also *so* excited to feel a kick! I was just shy of 20 weeks when I got my first honest-to-goodness kick from DD. I hope I can feel something sooner this time!

MichelleRenee - I would have been livid to have a second appt cancelled!

Hope everyone is doing well!

[nutter13]

Does anyone know what I could take for a cough during the day? My chest feels very heavy and I have a sore throat, but this cough is driving me crazy! I need something that is safe and won't make me sleepy.

Also, I know this is stupid but coughing all day long can't hurt the baby, can it?

TIA :)

[lawgirl4]

I'll be back later to post belly pics... but nutter13 - I just wanted to state the obvious - drink lots of fluids - you need to be extra hydrated, and the fluids will soothe your throat (try hot water with lemon squeezed in it - that's my mom's secret remedy ;) ) and feel better!

[Ericka_Jarett]

nutter13 - regular robitussin can be taken for coughing. To answer your question, the coughing can't hurt the baby.

[Bubeleh]

Really Busy today but just wanted to report back on my appt.

Blood pressure was good (I think 120/70), gained 2 pounds, and heard the racing heartbeat which was amazing. We went over upcoming appointments and talked about the quad screening. It was quick and dirty but the heartbeat was amazing. That was the first time I heard it. DH couldn't make it this time.

Next appointments:
BIG U/S!!!! - May 2
Monthly Appt - May 4

I'll try to check back in later today.

[lawgirl4]

Just wanted to drop these off!

threadmistress, you can use the collage as my photo - thanks!

I think the main difference this week is that now I look "rounder!" :)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/preggo/13wkcollage.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/preggo/IMG_3418.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/preggo/IMG_3417.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v310/lawgirl4/preggo/IMG_3415.jpg

edited to add - bubeleh, so glad to hear you had a good appt! isn't that heartbeat amazing?

[bunnybeth]

Doing about the same. My grapefruit craving is slowly decreasing, but now I'm wanting pepperoncini all the time. Which is strange because I never really ate them before.

Maxicat Just keep in mind that while it's illegal for someone to not hire you because you're pregnant, it's really hard to prove that's why you weren't picked. If they see that and don't want to hire you, they'll look closer at everything else and find another reason not to. My friend went interviewing while obviously pregnant, even though she didn't want to start a new job, just so she could qualify for unemployment. (As a female materials engineer with years of experience she's very desireable to employers.) That said, good luck if you should try it. Maybe you could wait until like a second interview to bring it up? By then they would already have an opinion of you, and their first impression would not have been "pregnant woman."

Bubeleh Thanks, I didn't really think so until I compared my new shot with the old one. Glad your appt went well today. The heartbeat is such a great sound. :)

MichelleRenee Hope you can find something to control your heartburn. Seems like pregnancy really messes with the digestive system.

lawgirl Glad your appt went well. It's amazing how quickly this all seems to be going! Your belly is really starting to pop out now, how cute.

[MidwesternGal]

Hello all!

Nothing too much to report here, except that I've been craving lemonade this week and have all ready gone through a whole container of CountryTime!

Maxicat--I agree with bunnybeth's advice on waiting until the 2nd interview to tell potential employers. I've had several friends interview while pregnant and they never got the job for "other" reasons. . . even though they obviously were very qualified.

Maplekitty--Maybe I missed something, but did you ever find out what was causing your rash? I hope you did and that it is clearing up!

[maplekitty]

Maplekitty--Maybe I missed something, but did you ever find out what was causing your rash? I hope you did and that it is clearing up!


yes! I went to the dermatologist and he figured out that it was my dryer sheets. Aparantly dryer sheets are a major irritant, and since the pregnant body has a higher metabolism and we have higher body temperatures, we tend to sweat more. So of course everhwere I would get hot and sweaty was where my skin was rubbing my clothes and thus the rash!
So I had to rewash all my clothes, and have ditched the dryer sheets. Also I have a newer stronger cream. And aparantly cortisone is fine for pregnant women, there have been several research done and there is no correlation to any fetal problems.

[Bubeleh]

Maplekitty - Glad to hear they found the problem and there is something you can do.

By the way I noticed today there is a December 2006 thread :eek:, we are moving on up girls!

[Pamela]

Maplekitty, have you tried unscented dryer sheets? I've got really sensitive skin and have to use unscented dryer sheets and degergent (Bounce Free dryer sheets and Tide Free detergent). When I'd come home from college, sometimes my mom would forget and use the regular scented stuff and I'd wonder why my skin was going crazy!


Edited to add, Wow, a December group already?! Time's sure flying!

[dzmattie]

Hi Ladies -

Just a question for you - I didn't feel this way with my DS so I am wondering what is going on - hormones???

Some days I am just completely overwhelmed with being pregnant - I haven't been feeling great, my back hurts, and I am home all day with a toddler. I am terrified of having two kids and how I will manage. I am confused by feeling this way especially since prior to having kids I was an organized, confident, working woman.....I am not depressed but sometimes just think - how am I going to do this??? I am wondering if any of you feel this way - not even just directed at those of you having #2 or #3 - I am just wondering if anyone has these feelings in general with being pregnant. This baby was planned and we definitely want to have 2, 3, or even possibly 4 kids - :eek: !! I am just wondering how I am going to deal?????:confused:

[Mrs-Mac]

Morning,
I had an appt yesterday and I so relieved to say we heard the heartbeat. I was so nervous all day. I just have this irrational feat before every appt that something might be wrong. But luckily, nothing was wrong and everything was perfect. The heartrate was between 160-170 (she didn't really measure it, but knew what it was around from experience). I've lost 1 pound and everything else is fine. She wants to change my due date to Oct 20th, but its hard for me to accept that as my due date, since I know when I ovulated. So, I think I'm just going to stay with Oct 23rd.

After the appt last night we started to make phone calls and tell some family. I called my grandparents and two cousins I'm close with. It was fun sharing happy news. I'm going to see three college friends this weekend, so I'll get to share the news with them too. I'm telling my bosses at work today. Although I'm excited to tell everyone, its still a little scary. Its like it makes it more real or something.

dzmattie I have zero advice to offer since this is my frist baby, and I had a completely different set of worries and concerns!! I do hear a lot of moms have an easier time with the second baby. They are more relaxed and more comfortable with the newborn, and that helps a lot. I'm sure how you are feeling is really normal and hopefully someone else has some better words of wisdom for you.

maplekitty Glad to hear you found out what was causing the rash!! Hope it goes away soon!!

lawgirl4 Your belly looks great!! Love the progression!!

Hope everyone else is doing well and has a great Friday!

[marathongirl]

Good morning all!

lawgirl - love the collage! You look great!

I also can't believe there's a December thread already!

dzmattie - I'm with you on the worries. Honestly, I was pretty naive about #1 and figured I'd have a baby, stay home for a few weeks, and go back to work like nothing ever changed. Boy, was I wrong! This time, I am worried about how I'll handle 2 kids barely 2 years apart. Especially since DH travels and I'm by myself alot. I suppose you 'roll with the punches' a little better the second (or third) time around. Even with the worries, I'm very much looking forward to it. :D

bubeleh & mrs-mac - yeah for h/b's!!!

maplekitty - glad you found an answer for your rash!

I graduated my quilting class an am officially a master quilter! I've been taking lessons since December, so I'm happy to be done practicing and can finally work on my own stuff.

Hope everyone has a great weekend! When, oh when, will spring come to the northeast?

[TaterBaby]

Well finally at 14 weeks has my m/s subsided! I had it every day from 6.5 weeks until 14. :mad:
It seems to have been replaced with headaches, although they could be related to this crazy weather we are having and not pregnancy I guess.

I am going shopping for my 1st maternity clothes this weekend! I probably won't need them for another couple of weeks, but this is my only free weekend for awhile. I know I'll wake up one day and need them and don't want to be stuck with nothing. I hope I can find some cute things. I'm actually really excited about this shopping trip. It seems I haven't bought clothes in forever.

I have a cousin that has been dealing with infertility and went thru IVF for the first time this month. I just got word this week and she is pregnant with twins and everything is looking good so far! We will have a house full of babies during the holidays!

Here is my 14 week belly shot. Bbs are out of control. :eek:

http://images.snapfish.com/3467656%3A6%7Ffp339%3Enu%3D3233%3E542%3E274%3E2324 542365536ot1lsi

[Pamela]

I've been having contractions off and on for the past couple of days. My doctor had me stay home from work last night and I'm going in to see her this morning. It was a long sleepless night and I'm scared. Hopefully its nothing. I'll update later.

[Jenzen01]

I was home yesterday with the pregnancy blahs. Had another day where I felt like I had a huge hangover. Plus, I was so crampy on Wednesday night, which is weird because I haven't had cramps in a couple of weeks. I'm hoping it was just baby growing.

Add me to the list of those suffering with headaches. This symptom just started in the past week. So far, I haven't taken anything, but I really wanted to last night. My head was throbbing and I felt sick-to-my-stomach in the middle of the night. Fun.

Pamela - Let us know how everything is. Could you be having round ligament pain?

[pickle]

flyby post-- I hope everything is okay, Pamela! I'll be thinking of you. Let us know how your appointment goes.

[lawgirl4]

another flyby post - Pamela, hope that everything is okay. Thinking positive thoughts for you.

[maplekitty]

Maplekitty, have you tried unscented dryer sheets? I've got really sensitive skin and have to use unscented dryer sheets and degergent (Bounce Free dryer sheets and Tide Free detergent). When I'd come home from college, sometimes my mom would forget and use the regular scented stuff and I'd wonder why my skin was going crazy!




We *were* using unscented dryer sheets! I have prety sensitive skin too and also I havnt been able to use scented deodarant since I was 12!

So yah, weird eh? I guess whatever chemicals are in dryer sheets are just too harsh for my pregnancy skin right now.


BTW: hope you're doing okay! What do contractions feel like exactly? That's pretty scary, rest up and let us know how your appnt goes!

[marathongirl]

pamela - thinking positive thoughts for you!

[emermel]

Feeling pretty good here. I told my sister that we are pg yesterday (she is having a really rough time right now and I thought it would cheer her up...it did).

Does anyone else still feel like they are bigger some days than others (and bellies are harder some days than others?) I felt like I shrank yesterday.

Pamela: I hope that everything is OK. Please keep us posted!

DZ: I KNOW EXACTLY HOW YOU FEEL! I was ready to get in the car and drive away on Monday evening (not really) b/c dd was driving me NUTS! How am I going to deal with the terrible 2s and a newborn? Other times I feel like I am super-mom and I could handle 12 kids (that is SOOO not in the plans!)

Hope everyone has a good day and a great weekend!

[dzmattie]

Thanks all for your encouraging words - I definitely feel overwhelmed sometimes and super mom at others - so I can relate to that too!

Pamela - I hope you are doing better - keep us posted....

[emermel]

DZ...I just noticed that both of our kids will only be a few days apart...so I DEFINITELY know the mental struggle that you are going through!

[Nigellas]

Just wanted to stop in for a sec and let you all know I'lll be gone until April 17th - We are going to Mexico and leaving first thing tomorrow. :D

Weeeeee!

[Bubeleh]

Pamela - Please update us as soon you can. My thoughts are with you.

Nigellas, have a great time, where are you going?

[Pamela]

Back from my appointment, thanks everyone for the good thoughts!

To answer Jenzen's question, definately contractions and not round ligament pain. I can palpate my uterus really easily now, its a couple of inches or so above my pubic bone, and since I'm thin to begin with its just right there. The contractions feel kind of like menstrual cramps, but I can feel that my uterus is this bigger, higher thing contracting now, and if I lay my hand on my belly I can feel my uterus scrunch up and get really hard. A lot of the time it feels tense, and then it scrunches up and changes shape and gets really hard when it contracts. Its not super painful, but it is definately unpleasant.

I was a nervous wreck waiting to see the doctor, really fidgety, which is really unlike me. But thank goodness my cervix is closed and fine, and the heartbeat was Really easy to find and was 150. I'm off work and on bedrest for a couple of weeks now. The contractions could be caused by all sorts of things, like an irritable uterus, low progesterone, or maybe it just doesn't like to stretch. So I'm to put my feet up and just take it easy for now.

I've got an appointment with the perinatologist for a level 3 ultrasound (I though it was level 2, but its 3) in a couple of weeks, but my doctor wants to try and get me in sooner than that. I love my doctor, she is so awesome and always makes me feel better.

[bunnybeth]

Maplekitty Glad to hear you figured out that rash. I'm starting to get really itchy places on my legs. Maybe I'll try laundry w/o dryer sheets this week and see if it helps.

Mrs-Mac That's great that your appt went so well. I can totally understand that fear before appts, as I've been there myself. A strange mix of not wanting to go and wanting to go to get some reassurance. I think changing a due date by a couple of days is pretty silly, the baby will come when they're ready for the most part and so few are born on the EDD. My mom didn't let the Dr give anything closer than a due month when she was pregnant with me. :p

Pamela So glad to hear things are looking good so far. Take care of yourself and relax.

Transitional wear Any ideas for transitional dresses? I have a wedding to attend in 3 weeks and a black tie event in 4, and I'm starting to wonder what the heck I'm going to wear. All my current dresses on not belly-friendly styles and looked pretty bad on me when I tried them on yesterday. Ugh!

[lawgirl4]

pamela, so glad to hear things are okay - take it easy!!! :) did your dr. test your progesterone levels since that's a possible cause for the contrax? it sounds like you have a really great dr, that makes such a huge difference.

bunnybeth - for dresses, I would definitely try to go to stores and try stuff on (as opposed to ordering online). Also, you may be bigger in 3-4 weeks (who am I kidding, you will be bigger!) so maybe hold out for another 2 weeks before buying stuff?

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

regarding all the itchiness/skin irritation - I am suffering from this too. I normally have very itchy skin, particularly in the winter, but it usually eases up by now so I am guessing it is pg-related. We never use dryer sheets and we only use arm & hammer sensitive skin (dye & scent free) detergent, so I know it's not from that... I'm just trying to stay hydrated and I use a great natural coconut moisturizer after showering. it helps a little...

[MrsR]

lawgirl -- thanks for stopping by the TTC w/charting thread and dropping off some baby dust again:D. I am really hoping that this is my month. I am so type-A (as most of us lawyers are :rolleyes: ), that this whole TTC and it not "working" is really beginning to get on my nerves;)

[lawgirl4]

jess- no problem, I think you are doing everything right thus far!!! I am hoping for you too!! :)

[Lvella43]

Hey October Mommies! I am an Oct 2005 Mommy so I wanted to come by and say hello. Have fun growing your little ones!

JenniferLynne - Your due date is Jack's birthday!!

[MichelleRenee]

Ugh. I love being pregnant and I am so grateful to not have had bad m/s, but I just feel so fat. My stomach feels like it is about to burst, and I know this is only the beginning! I definitely do not like the stretchy feeling!!

Oh, and I'm a little irritable and moody.

I know this is kind of a petty concern, but if everyone could keep their fingers crossed that my dress for my sister's wedding still fits me tomorrow when I go to pick it up and more importantly, 4 weeks from now when she gets married!

[maplekitty]

here's my 14 week belly shot!
Wow, 14 weeks, finally in the second trimester!! Woohoo!!! 1/3 of the way there ladies!! :)

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid204/pcddc966fe041f555c0cfe993751fc0c5/ef880308.jpg

[Michelle]

Maplekitty - That's a great belly shot! :)

[maplekitty]

Maplekitty - That's a great belly shot! :)

Thanks! I think it looks like I'm rounding out a bit...however I still just feel fat unles I'm wearing a super obvious maternity shirt :p

[marathongirl]

Maplekitty - you look great!

pamela - glad everything is OK! Rest, rest, and rest!

MichelleRenee - me too on the feeling fat. I know the weight gain is necessary, but I'm just having such a hard time with it this time around.

bunnybeth - definitely go try the dresses on for your events. I was reading in a wedding when I was PG w/ DD and I found a nice dress at Motherhood.

We were supposed to take DD on an Easter egg hunt today, but it's raining. Yuck! So the hunt got cancelled.

[lawgirl4]

maplekitty - you definitely look pregnant to me, not "fat"!!! :) exciting!!

michellerenee - I think we all have our up days and down days... don't be too hard on yourself :) good luck on your dress!

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

so according to plain old math, today is my last day of the 1st trimester! (40 weeks divided by 3 equals 13 weeks and 2-1/3 days!).

[Pamela]

Lawgirl, we're not checking my progesterone, my doc doesn't think low progesterone is why I'm contracting. She thinks its probably because my uterus is just sensitive/irritable and since I'm small I probably had a small uterus to begin with and it doesn't like to stretch.

bunnybeth, I've seen some really cute dresses from Motherhood and also Gap seems to get really cute stuff. I really wish I had something to go to this summer in a cute maternity dress!

Maplekitty, you look so cute!


I'm spending my time flat on my back most of the time. Still having contractions though. I had to sleep on my back all night because every time I rolled to my side that made them worse. Its wierd, I can actually see my uterus contract!

But we took my 14 week pics:

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y145/MrsPamela/14weeks3days.jpg

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

Threadmistress, please use the progression pic.

[MichelleRenee]

The dress fits, but just barely!! I am worried it won't fit at all by the wedding on May 13th!

I know I have been eating way too much fattening stuff and I am going to try to cut back on that. It is hard when you have to eat out every day and:

1. fast food is all that is nearby
and
2. the only thing that sound appetizing is the deep fried stuff

We did switch to 2% milk by suggestion of my nutritionist. I also started bringing my snacks to work in smaller portions. (only 1/2 a peanut butter sandwich before lunch) I think my next move will be to carry more fruit with me. I crave fruit a lot so it would make a much better snack than chocolate chip cookies.

Happy Saturday everyone.

[lawgirl4]

michellerenee - I've been craving fruit like crazy too. I try to cut up an apple and a plum before work and it makes for great "snack food." Bananas too - they are loaded with nutrients.

[maplekitty]

Anyone else having a total aversion to vegetables?? Ugh I feel like a 5 yr old who refuses to eat their carrots! lol But honestly the idea of eating brocoli or peas just makes me....*shivers*. It's horrible, I feel like a bad mom! I'm going to give my kid scurvy! LOL
I think I might have to get some V8, I was buying the big container for a while, but if i leave it in the fridge for too long I think it's gone bad. Perhaps the single servings cans will be better for now! The only "vegetables" I can tolerate at the moment is soup! :(

[MichelleRenee]

maplekitty, what about a jarred tomato sauce? We eat Prego (a couple times a week) and I think a 1/2 cup is a full serving of vegetables. I can't imagine having an aversion to vegetables. (Then again I would have never imagined having one to hamburgers... ugh. Just writing that makes me shiver.)

I guess this is why we have to take pre-natals.

Has anyone tried that yogurt called Activia? I saw a commercial for it where a girl felt "bloated" and her friend tells her that if she eats this yogurt it will make her "regular" in 2 weeks. I guess it couldn't hurt to try. It was on sale at the grocery store today so I guess we'll see how it works!

[maplekitty]

Yes we eat jarred sauce (usually Healthy Choice, mix) - so I guess that helps too. I know, usually love veggies! I was never *that* kid who didnt eat their veggies, I always used to "steal" veggies off the counter as my mom would chop them - so having an aversion to them is so weird!!

MMMMmmmm....and see I could totally eat a big juicy hamburger this second, LOL

I've wondered about that Activia yogurt too...I'm so used to my Dannon Sillhouettes that I can't imagine switching. One thing I was trying to read on the container was whether or not it contains aspertame??

[Ericka_Jarett]

You can have aspartame that is nutrasweet. You can't have sweet & low though.

[lawgirl4]

maplekitty - you really should try to find a couple of fresh veggies that you can stomach - tomato sauce is not a substitute for all the nutrients in fresh vegetables! cooked vegetables (especially when they are cooked as long as a sauce) lose their nutritional value. Raw veggies are best. can you handle salad? I've actually been craving salad like crazy since day 1! (thankfully, since I feared that I would only crave unhealthy stuff!!).

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

so today is my first day of the 2nd trimester!!!! so exciting!!!! :)

[maplekitty]

maplekitty - you really should try to find a couple of fresh veggies that you can stomach - tomato sauce is not a substitute for all the nutrients in fresh vegetables! cooked vegetables (especially when they are cooked as long as a sauce) lose their nutritional value. Raw veggies are best. can you handle salad? I've actually been craving salad like crazy since day 1! (thankfully, since I feared that I would only crave unhealthy stuff!!).


yah...i can eat brocoli and celery raw with some dip. And I do eat those maybe a few times a week, but certainly not my reccomended 4 servings a day :(
Last night I had some acorn squash and that was good, so perhaps I'll buy a bunch of those to eat for lunch while I'm liking them, LOL.
I'm sure this will pass, I was going through a phase a few weeks ago where I couldn't stand the sight or touch of raw meat (which made for interesting dinnertime preparations, lol). But that's past now too...I hope these are just waves of aversions that don't stick around for too long

[dzmattie]

I wouldn't worry about the veggies - IMHO - I asked my OB about it when I went last week because although I am not vomiting any more I am so sick to my stomach all the time. He said to eat what felt right and keep drinking - and take your vitamins. He said if it hadn't passed by my next visit we would talk further. He really wasn't concerned at all.

[lawgirl4]

maplekitty - LOL about the raw meat... my mom had the same aversion when she was pg with me! to this day she gets queasy at the supermarket in the meat aisle!

[jeant]

I am so behind! It is still nice to come in here and see how everyone is doing, though -- I really enjoy it.

maplekitty I hear ya on the veggies. Before I got pg I ate super-healthy. Since then, I don't think I've had a single salad. I still eat spinach and lettuce on sandwiches, but can't do it straight. I also used to steam huge amounts of broccoli all the time, and now do that only once a week or so. Know what I eat most of the time? Frozen dinners. ;) At least most of them have *some* veggies. And when the kid wants to eat *right now*, they are done in 5 minutes. The sad part is my DH is starting to prefer frozen dinners to when I cook -- it's always been his job to clean up, and he prefers throwing away a box to loading a dishwasher with cooking pots.

My FoxNews interview is still on for Tuesday morning at 7:40am Eastern. Watch or Tivo to see if I screw up! :) (I will be doing it live, which is 4:40am local time for me here in California!!!!)

[Michelle]

JeanT - How exciting! I set my DVR. The show listed was called Fox and Friends on from 4-6am. Is that the right one?

[lawgirl4]

jeant - good luck!!! how exciting!! I'll try to catch it!

[jenniferlynne]

Hi everyone. I'm also so far behind!

Vegetables: Yes, me too! Normally I LOVE veggies but lately I can't stomach them at all. Even cooking them for my family makes me gag. Carrots are the worst. Well, that and tomato sauce, though I can eat regular tomatoes. I can still handle broccoli, though I don't crave it like I used to. I ate some spinach last night--by far my favorite vegetable--and my stomach did not like it at all! Salads, though, are great. Every day (sometimes twice) I eat romaine lettuce and tomato, topped with cottage cheese, sunflower seeds, sometimes avocado, and Goddess dressing. So good! It's like a magic cure for my nausea--works every time!

I wouldn't worry too much about not eating vegetables during the first trimester. As long as you're taking your prenatals, you should be fine, since this is most likely temporary. I had the same problem last time but by the second trimester I was craving veggies again. In fact, I could not get enough greens: spinach, collard greens, mustard greens, Swiss chard--you name it, I loved it!

I have my NT screening on Tuesday, and boy am I nervous! I wish that we'd at least heard the heartbeat or had an ultrasound already so I would know there's really a baby in there. I'm so scared of getting there and finding out something is wrong. I don't mean a birth defect; I haven't even had time to think about that yet. I'll just be so happy to get some kind of confirmation that everything is okay...

Question: I apologize if this has already been asked, but has anyone bought a Bella Band? If so, how do you like it? http://www.bellaband.com/bellaband.html

[maplekitty]

I went registering today!
It was a little overwhelming, but I had prepared myself with a list thanks to CC and also checking out BRU online.

I still think there should be more I need to add, but for my first go around it was pretty fun!

[MichelleRenee]

My biggest problem with food aversions is that they are starting to pop up just as I start to eat something. Like today at the zoo all I wanted was a hot dog and some onion rings. I couldn't even eat half of it.

Veggies just aren't an issue though. I can't eat some things. The only kind of salad dressing I can stomach right now is Olive Garden's. I bought myself some to use at home.

I might have solved the issue with my MOH dress. The other BM in the wedding bought her dress one size bigger than mine and was about to have it taken in this week. She is going to try on mine and if it fits we'lll just switch. Hopefully that will work out. Good thing we are the same height!

[Lily]

QOTD - As we all start registering, I was wondering what stores you are using? I was thinking of Babies 'R' Us and Target. Maplekitty, do you mind listing the lists that you used? I'm still really undecided on what to put on my registry. TIA. :)

It sounds like we're all starting to feel better. This morning I just realized that I haven't had m/s or nausea really for about 2 weeks now. I'm starting to feel like time is going by so much faster now than it did for the first 2 months waiting for my first appt. Only 4 more weeks until the big u/s. I can't wait for that.

[MidwesternGal]

Maplekitty--I eat veggies, but it's FRUIT I'm having a hard time with. I didn't like it before being pg--yes I'm weird to not like fruit--but I figure if I eat at least 2 a day that's better than none at all! Don't worry too much--this is why we all take multi-vitamins and prenatals!! (food is better, but at least you're trying!)

MichelleRenee--Good solution with the MOH dress!! Two BMs in my wedding did that anyways, and it worked out really well.

So we told my family today!!! We ended up putting "I love grandma/grandpa" bibs in Easter eggs and gave it to them. They didn't get it at first!! My mom said, "Ummm, huh??" I said, "Hi grandma!" And she turne BRIGHT red and literally BOUNCED in her chair!! She's going to announce at her staff meeting tomorrow that she's going to be a grandma! LOL. My dad, who is one of those tough-guy farmer types CRIED--I have NEVER seen my dad cry before! I couldn't believe it! We went out to dinner afterwards and they both grinned at me all silly the whole time. My sister was a little more subdued, because the baby is due a few months after she leaves for her 2-year Peace Corp stint--she was happy, but kind of sad, too.

Now, we just have to survive telling DH's family (that will probably be interesting!), and it's done! What a relief!

I hope you all had a great weekend!

[maplekitty]

QOTD - As we all start registering, I was wondering what stores you are using? I was thinking of Babies 'R' Us and Target. Maplekitty, do you mind listing the lists that you used? I'm still really undecided on what to put on my registry. TIA. :)



I'll bump the threads in Pregnancy for ya :)

[emermel]

Personally, I wouldn't recommend using Target for your registry. I have heard that people have had a really hard time with returns there (they are REALLY strict about having a reciept, which of course you don't always get with a gift). It's great for buying for yourself, but I've heard not-so-good things about it in terms of registries (wedding and baby).

Just my opinion.

[MichelleRenee]

I started a registry at Target, but it can't be viewed by anyone yet. I just like to add things once in awhile. I know it will change a lot by the time I make it viewable. My big thing is that there are a ton of babies in our family right now and we're being offered a ton of free stuff, like swings and carseats. As much as I want new stuff for our baby I also want to keep the freebies in mind when I register so we can get more other stuff we want. Like I really want the papasan swing but my sister already offered us her baby's swing. We ended up deciding to keep the swing from her but it will stay at our parents house and we will register for the papasan for our house.

[Ericka_Jarett]

I registered only at BRU with Rebekah and kept the same registry for this baby, with a few changes since my stroller and car seat were discontinued.

One major thing my best friend said to put on the registry was a mirror for the car, so you can see the baby while you are driving and such. She said of everything she got that was the best thing. Everyone says don't register for clothing at all, it's true. Lots of people will give you clothes anyway without you having to register for them. I already mentioned to some people that I would like to get clothes bigger than 6 months. They said thanks for letting us know and we can get the word out when we send out invites. She said better to know exactly what you want than you ending up with lots of 0-3 and them not fitting for long.

Me - I have a doctor's appt this week. It will be the day after my 32nd b-day which is on Wednesday. :)

[lawgirl4]

registries - I was just reading Baby Bargains on the train this morning and they echoed emermel's sentiment about Target's registry. We live right near a Target so I'm probably going to go over there and ask them questions...

Also, my entire family is in the NY-metro area and I will probably put some things on a Buy Buy Baby registry as well. After going there and to Babies R Us with my mom a couple of weeks ago, I was far more impressed with the quality (of clothes, cribs, and blankets, etc) at Buy Buy Baby.

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

jenniferlynne - I bought the bella band, and it was good up until 2 weeks ago, when my belly started feeling bigger. It now feels kind of tight (I had the smallest size). If you aren't showing much but your regular pants are tight on you, I'd recommend it; however, I think that in the next 3-4 weeks most of us will start to develop a more "pregnant" belly and will rely more on maternity pants.

[Jenzen01]

Hi all,

With all the talk of registering, I thought I'd drop this list off. It's sort of long, but I wrote it a couple of months after Gabe was born for a coworker, so it's pretty accurate for what you need in the first few months. After your baby hits the solids stage, you'll need a whole bunch of other stuff, but this list will at least get you through the beginning.

Jen

Breastfeeding
Lanolin ointment – I’m using the Lasinhol brand. You’ll need this stuff because you’re going to get sore. It doesn’t solve all the problems, but it does make things more comfortable. There are several other brands out there, but make sure you buy this stuff before you have the baby because you’ll need it right away.

Breast pads – Again, get these before the baby is born. I’ve had to experiment with brands because some irritated me.

Nursing bras – Target has some really cheap nursing bras that work just fine. I’ve actually been using tank bras from my pre-pregnancy days because they’re easier to use while I’m at home – no hooks to deal with when I have a screaming baby. My milk came in two days after Gabe was born, so I needed these right away. I ended up sending Al to Target because this was the last thing on my list to buy, and I hadn’t gotten to it. J

Pump – The electric pump is a lifesaver. It’s really fast to use. I also bought a hand pump that I used in the early days when I just needed some relief (Avent brand pump, which came with bottles and nipples – a nice perk.)

A note on nursing: Take advantage of your lactation consultant. Nursing can be a real challenge, so don’t be ashamed to cry about it. The good news is that when you think it can’t possibly get any worse, it starts getting better. Gabe and I are a much better team than we were in those early weeks, and I’m even getting to the point where nursing is a good experience. You WILL get past the soreness and the sleepy baby and the engorgement. Just have some patience and surround yourself with people who will listen to your problems.

What we needed for baby
Vibrating chair – Gabe slept in the Kick and Play vibrating chair for the first week or so. I had a really hard time getting him to sleep in the bassinet, so this was a lifesaver. Now, we use it when we’re eating or I need to get some things done. It’s been a great item.

Pack-n-Play – We have a Graco pack-n-play that includes a bassinet and changing table. Gabe slept in our bedroom for the first month because his room is upstairs, and I wanted him nearby in the beginning. This is also handy because when we go to my parents for an overnighter, we have the changing table and everything in one place. Now that he’s a little older, I’m using the bottom of the pack-n-play as a playpen.

Waterproof bassinet pads – I bought these with the intention of using them in the bassinet, but they’ve been really helpful for when I feed Gabe in bed or for when we bring him in bed with us in the morning. Feeding is messy, and these keep my sheets clean. I bought bassinet-sized pads that are washable.

Lap pads – Someone gave me these at a shower, and I was wondering what I would use them for, but I’ve since discovered they’re a necessity. I put these on the changing table so that I don’t have to wash the changing pad every day. These are also great to keep in your diaper bag for changing diapers on the go.

Zip-up sleepers – With a winter baby, these worked the best. Buttoning up a sleeper in the middle of the night is no fun. Zip-up sack sleepers make a world of difference for night-time convenience. Plus, ours are made from fleece, which kept Gabe warm.

Blankets – I have about four different blankets. The fleece one from Target is especially nice, and I bring it along whenever we go out. Now, I use it on the floor for play time.

Diapers – We went through one small package of newborn diapers and then one 96-count package of No. 1 diapers. Don’t buy too many of the small diapers because babies outgrow them so quickly. Gabe is already in No. 3 diapers, and he’s only 7 weeks old.

Ointment/diaper cream – I like Balmex the best, which is a clear ointment for daily use. I also bought some regular Aveeno diaper cream, but it’s a little messier and the Balmex is just great for keeping baby nice and clean.

Onesies – Makes sure you have quite a few of these. We go through about two to three changes of clothes a day, so it’s good to have at least 10 onesies so that you don’t have to do wash every day. Even though Gabe is in 3-6 month clothes, his 0-3 onesies still fit because they have a little more give.

Bath tub – You could probably get away without this, but the infant bath tubs are pretty cheap, so it’s a nice thing to have. I bought one that included a sling for sponge baths for when the baby still had his umbilical cord, but we never even used that feature.

Car seat/carrier – I didn’t buy a travel system because I bought my car seat off of Tracy Schmidt. This means that I don’t have a stroller, which is OK, because I’m going to wait until he’s old enough for a jogging stoller, anyway. You’ll use an infant car seat until the baby is 20 pounds. It detaches from the car base so you can carry the baby around with you. Ah, life will never be the same. J

Nail clipper/thermometer set – One suggestion: clip nails when the baby is sleeping. J

Baby soap/shampoo – The cheap stuff works just fine. I bought the Target brand.

Wash clothes – Again, you could probably get along fine without these, but they’re a little softer than regular towels. Plus, they’re a pretty cheap item.

Pacifiers – I was originally against using a pacifier, but when you have a colicky baby, you’ll try anything. I bought two newborn Nuk pacifiers. The hospital will supply you with some, but Gabe didn’t like that brand. We just used the Nuk when Gabe was really upset, or in the evening when we’re were trying to watch TV or have some adult conversation time. He no longer uses it.

Bottles – General recommendation for breastfeeding is not to use bottles for the first four weeks. I introduced Gabe to the bottle at the end of Week 3, which gave me a lot of freedom. You’ll be amazed at how much better life becomes once you can leave the house for more than two hours. I’m using Avent bottles. I’d just forget about the 4 oz. bottles and buy the larger ones right away because you’ll need them anyway. I’m still using the No. 1 nipples with Gabe because he’s spitting out too much with the No. 2 nipples.

Bottle brush/dishwashing carrier – Good items to have. The dishwashing carrier that I have fits nipples in the top compartment and pacifiers/misc. items in the bottom. Very handy.

Bottle drying rack – Very cheap item. Found mine at Toys R Us for under $5, I think. (Note: I now use this to dry sippy cups)

Burp clothes – The best burp clothes are cloth diapers. Buy a couple packages, and you’re set. They’re the perfect size, and they absorb well.

Diaper bag – Make sure it comes with a small changing pad.

Wipes – We bought these in bulk from Sam’s club. Forget about the wipe warmer, because you really don’t need it.

Vaseline – If you’re having a boy, you need some type of petroleum jelly during the first week for his circumcision.

Gas drops – We bought gas drops for Gabe because of his colic, but I don’t think they worked all that well. Something you might want on hand, but then again, you might not need it.

Infant Tylenol – You really won’t need this until your 2-month checkup, unless the baby gets sick. You should give the baby Tylenol before vaccinations to reduce the effects.

[She-Ra]

Hey all--I've been totally MIA b/c we put our house on the market this week & that has sucked every minute out of every day!

Veggies-I am usually a HUGE salad person, and just started wanting them again this week. I try to get fruit in smoothies, and I can also stomach strawberries & melon.

Registries--We did target & BRU with DS. There is only 1 BRU in our city, and it is far from most of my friends/relatives. We had no problem with exchanges at Target. The just make you exchange it foe something in the baby department. There is always something else I need there, so never a problem.

Also, I have never used those car mirrors & DS is 2. My main safety concern is not keeping your eyes on the road, but that they can fall down onto the baby.

[Sua]

She-ra - Good luck with selling your house! I hope it goes quickly and smoothly for you!

Ericka - Happy Birthday a little early!

Jenniferlynne - I have a bella band and I like it. I wish I had ordered a size smaller though. Since I dropped some weight during these early weeks, I've liked it to hold up some of my regular pants. Hope all goes well with your NT scan!

Midwestern Girl - Glad you had so much fun telling your family! Awww, your dad sounds so cute!

Jeant - I will suspend my normal boycott of Foxnews to watch you tomorrow! :p Yipes, that's an early interview! Good luck!

Lily - I am glad to hear you are feeling better! I am crossing my fingers that I will too very soon!

MichelleRenee - Good luck with the dress swap!

Maplekitty - Great belly shot! I am with you on the veggie aversion. Except I seem to like iceberg lettuce, which is oh-so-nutritious! :rolleyes:

Pamela - I hope you had a relaxing weekend and the contractions have subsided!

Bunnybeth - I bought a couple of wrap dresses during my last pregnancy and they were great during the transitional timeframe.

Lawgirl - Adorable belly shots!

Jenzen -I have been having headaches like that too. Yuck. I had one for four days last week. I hope you are feeling better!

Taterbaby - Cute belly!

I had my NT scan last week and all looked well with the babe. The nuchal fold measured 1.2mm. I expect to hear today the "final" results with the blood test results included. The heartbeat was consistent with my regular OB visit last week: 161bpm.

We've now told everyone about the baby. Now it would be nice for some of my m/s to fade away so I can really enjoy this second trimester. :p For the most part, I feel okay during the day, but mornings and evenings are a struggle. I feel like I can feel a little "quickening" or fluttering in my uterus when I lay still. It doesnt feel like kicks or anything, but just little bitty twitches. Maybe I am imagining it? I didnt realize that I was feeling kicks with my son until late. One day my DH and I were working together and I asked him if he thought I was feeling kicks and put his hand on my belly. He pulled his hand back and looked at me like I was crazy. He felt it so strongly that he couldnt imagine how I wasnt sure that it was the baby kicking. So, we joke that he felt the baby kick before I did.

Take care all! :D

[emermel]

Just another quick note on registries. I would recommend ONLY registering for those things that you don't plan to or aren't able to buy for yourselves. I would put the more expensive things on...that way, your friends and family can go in on the things that you can't get for yourselves (the stroller, bedding, carseats, etc). I have never seen anyone recieve a breastpump as a gift (feel free to tell me I'm wrong).

What we ran into was that the more expensive things on our list were staying on the list and the smaller items were purchased quick. I would also make sure to put less expensive things on the list as well, but things like your bedding accessories-not pacifiers/washcloths/breastpads.

Also, unless there are SPECIFIC receiving blankets that you want, I wouldn't necessarily register for those either. DD was born in January and I kid you not, we recieved 20 blankets when we had registered for 2. You will get blankets for your baby.

Again, just my opinion. Feel free to take or leave.

[Quartercentury]

Hello, mamas! Not much happening around here lately. I am slowly slowly starting to feel better - I haven't felt like I was going to throw up in just about a week. I had half a pint of beer on Friday, which I think may have done the trick. ;)

I had blood drawn today for my nuchal screening - the scan will be on Thursday. I was really sceptical at first, but now I am excited to see the baby!

I am curious to hear what other people put on their registries... I don't think baby registries are normal in the UK, so it will be good to get an idea of what to ask the in-laws for!

[Bubeleh]

All this talk of registries is freaking me out a bit. I can't believe its already time for that - Yikes :eek: Thanks for the list Jenzen, I'm going to look it over during lunch.

Maple - Cute Belly pic! I hear you on the veggies. Not sure if I have an aversion, or if I am just taking advantage of people telling me to eat what ever I want! Luckily I make it to the gym about 5-6 times a week to hopefully counteract a little of the good stuff I've been eating!

Ericka: A fellow tax time baby! My B-day is tomorrow, but I started celebrating this weekend. Happy early B-day to you!

I did a little shopping this weekend. I broke down and bough a couple maternity tanks to wear under jackets, and a pair of cropped black flowy pants with and elastic waist. Its low rise and so comfy! I got them at Kohls, they didn't have a great selection, but they were having a really good sale.

They also had a big sale in the baby section. I didn't buy much because we still don't know the gender, but I bought some onsies in the 3-6 months range. My favorite is the one that says "Tax Deduction".

My mom & I are headed to the outlets in a couple weeks so I'll probably do some more maternity clothes shopping at that time.

Have a great Monday Ladies!

[Ericka_Jarett]

Thanks Bubeleh. Happy b-day to you also.

Don't freak. Most people don't start to register until about 20 weeks or after they know the sex of the baby. With Rebekah we registered at 20 weeks, pretty much 2 days after finding out the sex. This time we had most things still on the registry so just made a few adjustments to it about 2 weeks ago. Don't really have much else to put on it except some off and ends I think about over the next few months. My shower will be end of July, early August, since my doctor suggested having it at around 30 weeks. While I am still comfortable and yet early enough so that if I went into labor early, I don't have to worry about it much.

[pickle]

Hi everyone...I need to get caught up, but I had an unexpectedly eventful ob appointment this morning. Cross-posting from my LJ:

It was supposed to be just a routine appointment, so J dropped me off and didn't come in. It was the usual--pee in a cup, blood pressure (110/60), how ya feeling, blah, blah, blah. But then she couldn't find the heartbeat. Anywhere. She told me not to worry (too late) and sent me upstairs for a u/s. At this point, I had decided that J was not skipping any other appointments and was texting him from the waiting room. After what seemed like an 8 year long wait, I got called back by the tech. Right away she said the baby was fine, just up higher than where my doctor was looking with the doppler. Phew. The heart was beating away (150) and you could see all the chambers. Very cool. Then she started checking everything out. Skeletor face? Check. Looong legs? Check. Big belly? Check. Then she asked if we were planning to find out the sex. I said yes, and she said she bet we could see. I briefly considered telling her that I didn't want to know, since J wasn't with me, but let's face it, I don't have that kind of self-control. (And I knew J wouldn't mind. He would've been more disappointed if I hadn't found out.) The baby was Not Shy. We got a couple of pretty clear shots and Baby R is a...
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BOY!!!!!!!!

I knew it all along! And honestly, even if I didn't want to know, I think it was pretty freaking obvious. The tech did a contrast thing to make sure it wasn't the cord, and she said she's 99% positive it's a boy. Obviously we'll confirm at the 20 week u/s, and I'm not about to run out and buy everything in light blue, but still.... A. Boy. And everything looked great, perfect from head to toe from what we could see. I was so relieved. We're both thrilled. :) My next appointment is May 15.

[MichelleRenee]

I was just at a shower a few weeks ago where the mom got a breastpump! I saw it on the registry and thought "no one will buy that!" and someone did!!!

Bubeleh, that is definitely nothing to freak about just yet! I just started mine out of boredom and out of the need to feel like I was doing something to prepare for the baby. I didn't think I would register until June or July.

I am really struggling with the hormones right now. I am just so weepy and mad all the time. I am hoping this passes soon. My eyes are always burning because I seem to always be tearing up!

[MichelleRenee]

pickle, I have been dreaming that we'd get an early surprise when it comes to finding out the sex! Congrats on your 99% boy!

[Jenzen01]

awwwwwwwwwwwww. ..................... pickle, i got chills reading your post. congrats on your BOY! little boys are so much fun.

[MidwesternGal]

pickle--Congrats on the boy!! Although we won't be finding out, I am almost 100% sure we'll have a boy too! :)

QOTD: Registering: I have looked around and found a few things I like, but am not planning on registering until a shower is planned, lol. Or, if no word of a shower, probably not until August or so. I mean, what if something *new* comes out and I like it better?? I think we'll register at Wa-Mart, actually, because BRU is a full one hour drive from both families (and us!) and Target's return policy is a pain--and they're a ways away, too! (love the midwest! UGH!) Large Wal-Marts seem to have similiar, if not the same, items as Target.

So I took the dog for a walk today (it is 70 degrees!! Whoppee!) and I had to pee before I even got halfway through!! It makes me wonder how some women RUN and JOG until their 7th month!

Hopefully you all had a great weekend!

[bunnybeth]

On the dress front, the good news is that I found a dress at the back of my closet that should fit for the wedding. (Just a touch big on me now- from a couple of years ago before I lost my post-wedding weight.) However, the old bridesmaid gown I tried on just in case, for the black tie event, does NOT. So, still need a formal gown that'll fit my big belly. :p

lawgirl Good idea about going to stores. And, I'm going to wait until 2 weeks beforehand... can't wait any longer due to my schedule, boo.

Maplekitty I agree, that's a great belly shot. I pretty much think I just look pudgy as well. Soon enough (I hope) it'll be obvious what our bellies contain. :) For veggies, if you don't really like the taste of V8 (I don't really) you can try their new V-Fusion juice, it's fruit and vegetables.

Pamela You'll need a cute maternity dress for your baby shower, won't you. ;) (Really end of summer, though.)

MichelleRenee That would be great if you could switch to the next size up on the bridesmaid dress. Although snacking on fruit can't hurt... and sounds pretty good. (So does Olive Garden salad, yum.)

jeant Looks like I'll have to check that out tomorrow. Good luck dealing with being awake so early!

jenniferlynne Hope your NT screening goes well tomorrow.

She-Ra Good luck selling your home, I'm sure that's really keeping you on your toes.

Bubeleh Love the "Tax Deduction" onesie. LOL!

pickle Ok, the beginning of your appt story had me freaking out. So glad everything turned out to be fine and you got to find out the gender already. Congrats on your boy! (I've read that u/s is pretty accurate at 14 weeks.)

QOTD: Registering Not going to be doing this until June probably, but Babies R Us and someplace online called Country Lane for the Beatrix Potter accessories.

[Bubeleh]

Pickle Congrats that's amazing news!!!!!!!

[Pamela]

Well, these !@#$ contractions aren't stopping or even slowing, its off and on all day and all night and gets pretty uncomfortable sometimes. But I had an appointment today and all was well. My cervix is long and closed tight, and I heard the heartbeat again but only for seconds at a time because the little squirt was moving around too much :p My doc doesn't think they're going to stop any time soon, and instead of two weeks of bedrest now I get four. I'm bored already.

But on a happy note, I'm positive I felt the baby move on the way home today! It was a really neat feeling, kind of like a fluttery bubbly thing, like some little marshmallow thing in my tummy rolled over and started frantically waving at me :D I know thats a weird description, but thats the image it brought to mind. Just letting me know that all is well, I guess.

I have my big ultrasound next wednsday, so I'm sure the time is going to just drag until then. I can hardly wait.

Aversions, cravings, I'm not having any aversions or cravings and never did. Most of the time my appetite isn't all that great, nothing sounds very appealing and I'm just not interested. But really the only pregnancy symptoms I have are these darn contractions.

jeant, I'll watch for your interview!

Maplekitty, registering sounds like so much fun! I think we'll wait until at least 20 weeks or so, or at least until I can go out and do it (I want to run aound the store with the scanner!)

Midwesterngal, congrats on telling your family!

pickle, congratulations on your Boy!

QOTD, registering, We'll register at Target, but I think that'll be it.

[maplekitty]

Congrats pickle!!! That's so cool they were able to see it so soon!! :)

[Ericka_Jarett]

Congrats pickle on your son.

I have an u's in 2 weeks, hopefully I can find out what we are having early (16 weeks), but if not will have to wait 4 more weeks after that appt.

[marathongirl]

pickle - congrats on your BOY!!!

baby moving - I think I'm starting to feel little bubble-like things going on. It's so cool since this time I know more what to feel for.

Happy b-days bubeleh and ericka_jarrett!

Fly-by post tonight. We're having central A/C installed (read: renovation he!!) so everything is covered in sheets. DD is staying with my sister tonight so DH and I headed out for a much needed dinner :D .

[dzmattie]

Pickle - congratulations on your son!!!!

Sorry - not much time for so's - I have my NT ultrasound tomorrow...nervous....

Have a good night all!!!

[MichelleRenee]

I am so tired and have no time to post, but here is my 11w2d belly shot.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v498/AngelyWangely/Belly%20Shots/11w2d.jpg

We're going to switch to every other week after this coming Sunday for belly shots. (I am a little OCD... it has to be on an even numbered week each time)

[Michelle]

Pickle - Congratulations on your baby boy! How exciting! :)

Ericka_Jarrett and Bubeleh - Happy Birthday!

[Ericka_Jarett]

Thanks everyone. We are probably going to have sushi tomorrow, on my actual b-day. My mom should be coming down as well, be the first time I have seen her since about November (she lives up in NY State and they get snow pretty much from October-May sometimes)

Last night was laying in bed and could feel the baby go from one side to the other. When the baby was on my left, my stomach was just so noisy, so I would press and could feel the baby there. My husband could feel the hardness of where the baby was, a couple more weeks and will be able to feel when this baby really starts to move externally

[Quartercentury]

Congratulations on your baby boy, pickle! That's very exciting!

I can't believe people are finding out the sex and feeling their babies move already! I am not even looking pregnant and just going to have my first ultrasound this week (at 12w4d). Sigh.

[Sua]

Congrats Pickle on your baby boy!!! How fun that you could find out so early!! :D

Happy Birthday Bubeleh!!

Dzmattie - Hope all looks great at your scan today!

Jeant - Great interview!! You were cool as a cucumber! So exciting!

[nutter13]

Good morning :)

Congrats Pickle on your BOY!

I know I'm only 12 weeks but sometimes I just know I'm feeling little movements down there, they feel like tiny bubbles popping! I felt DD at 15 weeks.

QOTD for second timers or those of you around children a lot, do you worry more about catching something now that you have a little one around to bring home more stuff?

I'm not worried about colds or normal stuff, but more like fifth disease or chicken pox, etc. DD is in daycare so she catches stuff all the time. I guess I'm just more aware now that I'm pregnant. I freaked out yesterday b/c the boy next door came home and his cheeks were bright red. I was thinking OMG what if DD gets it, and then I get it (thinking he might have fifth disease) when in reality his mother said he had been playing outside a lot and she had not put on any sun lotion, etc. How do you get through all this and not freak out!!?? I guess there really is no point in worrying b/c there's not much to do to prevent getting anything. Thanks for letting me vent :o

My doctors appt. is tomorrow. Can't wait to go...

Hope everyone has a great day!

[lawgirl4]

congrats again pickle!

qc - I too can't believe people are talking about feeling the baby move! At my NT u/s (12w1d) we were watching the baby move around and DH was like "can you feel that?" and the u/s tech was like "oh, it's tiny, you won't be feeling it for several more weeks." And if you look in the sept and aug mommy threads, you'll see that many people didn't feel movement until after week 16. So don't sweat it! :) I have felt some sensations in my abdomen, and who knows, maybe they are the baby, but I really don't think I would be able to distinguish different sensations at this point. Just wait for your NT u/s, you will be amazed when you see baby-qc kicking around!

dzmattie - good luck with the NT today!! :)

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

I had a terrible headache this morning - woke up at 4:45 am to go to the bathroom for the 3rd time, and then could not get back to sleep for over an hour. ugh. then I fell into a wonderful, deep sleep, but only for an hour since I had to get up for work. :(

On a positive note, it's going to be in the 70s today and I am wearing capri pants! I bought them on ebay - gap maternity - and while they are a little big, it's nice to be wearing pants that are on the bigger side rather than the smaller side!

[pickle]

Thanks so much for all of your congratulations! We're just thrilled, as you can imagine. It's so nice to be able to say "he" instead of "it" when referring to the baby! (I just hope the 20 wk u/s confirms this one!)

Movements--Not yet, although I'm dying to feel something! Every night I try to lay still and see if I can feel the baby, but so far all I've felt is my stomach growling. :rolleyes:

Registering- Haven't done it yet, and don't really know where we will. I'm thinking BRU and maybe one other place? I have heard horrible things about Target too, so I think we'll avoid that, even though it's awfully convenient for our families. Has anyone registered anywhere online, like Babystyle?

Happy Birthday Ericka_Jarrett and Bubeleh!

Great belly shot, MichelleRenee!

dzmattie, good luck at your appointment!

bunnybeth, I feel your pain on the formal dress sitch. We have a wedding to go to on Saturday and I'm not liking how any of my options fit. I was just telling a friend over the weekend that one should be able to rent formal attire when pg!

pamela, sorry those contractions aren't stopping or slowing--I just can't even imagine what that must feel like! Take it easy and have DH stock up on trashy magazines and good movies to keep you entertained while on bedrest.

Hope you all have a great day!

[Ericka_Jarett]

qc - Guess I can feel the baby because I was pregnant before and know what the feeling is. (all internal, except when I press on my stomach I can feel the hardness of my abdomen on one side or the other from the baby. I didn't feel Rebekah move until I was about 17 weeks on the inside and about 20 weeks on the outside.

Thanks pickle for the b-day wishes.

I hope I get a good pic at my next u/s in 2 weeks, so I can update the pic I have. This baby is a squirmer so hard for them to get good shots, of course by the u/s I will be 16 weeks so we shall see.

[jeant]

pickle Congrats on finding out the sex! I had no idea they could tell at 14 weeks. That is so cool.

I will join you on the gender train next week when we get our CVS results. (Which, BTW, went really well. It hurt a little, but not too bad.) And no complications, which was my biggest worry. Waiting for the results is hard -- I want so badly to know that everything is normal (which is why I did it in the first place.) Plus I am really hoping it's a girl and can't wait to find out. Good thing is if it's a boy I have a lot of time to get used to that and excited about it.

Sua Thanks! Glad you saw it! It was a minute shorter than I thought it would be, but I was just so pleased I was still able to talk at 4:50am my time! When I got home I went right back to sleep for a few hours. Still groggy. It was so bizzare to get up at 3am, put on makeup, talk on TV, and then go back to bed. It was like having a particularly vivid dream. I bet the baby really wanted to know what was going on! :)

The USA Today story will be out Thursday, so I hope that will help too.

[lawgirl4]

qc - I was just lurking in the sept mommies thread, and there's a mommy there named "babywish" who just posted her 19w photo. Her belly is as big now as mine was at 4 weeks! I know you already know this, but everyone's body is different and I thought that if you saw her photo you might feel better. :)

[dzmattie]

Hi ladies -

All was fine at my appointment - the NT was 1mm - so definitely in normal range. At first the tech kind of scared me b/c she said "boy - this baby isn't moving - but the heart is beating...." - ummm - why would you say it like that??? Then she had me use the restroom and walk around - and when she tried again the baby was wiggly - *sigh* - thank god.

Once again - they changed my due date - now it is October 14th - we keep fluctuating from the 20th to the 13th - I think I am going to stick with the 14th now! I was surpised that my OB keeps changing it - has this happened to anyone else?

[pickle]

dzmattie--My ob said they wouldn't adjust the due date unless it were off by more than 4-5 days, since they consider it to be more of a "due week" instead of one specific day (if that makes sense). Glad to hear that all went well!!

Oh, and I had to get up, use the bathroom, and flip from side to side in order to get the baby to move too. So don't worry, it must be pretty common!

[maplekitty]

I was surpised that my OB keeps changing it - has this happened to anyone else?

lol, every time i go in to see the doc, she's like "so, you're XX weeks now eh?" and shes always wrong, and I have to correct her!!
I've pretty much been the given anywhere from September 29th to Oct 10th! I'm just sticking with my own prediction of the 6th! It matches up with the u/s dates and what I predicted from my ovulation dates.

[Ericka_Jarett]

My OB is not changing my EDD as long as it's within a week. I technically should be due the 9th but she has me as the 4th and is keeping me there. As long as the baby is measuring on target for how many weeks I really am, no problem.

[Bubeleh]

Thanks for all the birthday wishes.

Threadmistress please update my age to 28!

Good luck to all the N/T's this week. Wishing you all great results.

Jeant - Sorry I missed your debut. I forgot to record it, but it sounds like it went really well.

I'm off to go lurk in the september thread and check out the photos. I feel like I should start to show soon, maybe that thread will be helpful.

[Jenzen01]

I had my first public belly rub today. One of the ladies at our company came up to me in the bathroom and said, "Is that a baby belly I see?" I said, "yes," and she rubbed my belly. OK, so I wouldn't really care, except right now, I just feel fat. It's one thing to be sticking out so far you can't see your feet ... it's another thing to think that anyone who touches you is going to realize that you've been eating an awful lot of baked potatoes lately because that belly is jiggly. :D

Well, it's not that bad, but geez, I'm popping early. I know they say you show early with No. 2, and I'm really starting to believe that. I pulled out my pics from 13 weeks with Gabe, and I had this tiny little pooch. Right now, I look bigger than I did in my 18.5 week shot with Gabe. Holy crap. I'll have to take a shot tonight and post it. I'm definitely looking preggers.

dzmattie - Glad to hear your appointment went well. My dr. doesn't change dates unless it's more than a week off.

pickle - I told my DH last night that a mom on my thread found out what she was having, and he thought that was so neat. We're a little jealous. :)

movement - I might have felt the baby. I'm still not calling it, but I get little pops every once in a while. I also feel like I have a melon on my bladder by the time morning rolls around. Anyone else feel like their uterus is getting heavy?

Happy Birthday to the birthday girls!

Jen

[bunnybeth]

Woke up with a terrible headache and bad nausea. I could not function at all until I took 1 Tylenol, at least it's the end of the 1st trimester and only my second pill since conception. (Not counting vitamins of course.) Somehow I made it to work on time, so I was proud of myself.

Pamela Sorry to hear you're still having contractions. I'm sure that must be uncomfortable with it happening so often. 4 weeks of bedrest stinks, but at least it's all for the good of the baby. This probably won't help much, but a friend of mine recently came off of 20 weeks of bedrest, I just couldn't imagine that myself. Hope your 4 weeks stays at that, and goes by quickly. That's so great that you've felt the baby move, I can't wait until my turn.

MichelleRenee You can really see the belly starting to pop out a little. Cute!

Happy birthday, Ericka and Bubeleh!

QC I'm a couple of days behind you and certainly am not feeling any movement yet.

lawgirl Ugh for waking up with terrible headaches, happened to me this morning as well. And, I agree that pants too big feel so much better than ones too small.

pickle I swear I remember reading about maternity formalwear rental at some point (maybe in Baby Bargins?) which is a great idea, but I think my main problem is not really fitting in maternity yet. Bad timing!

dzmattie Glad the NT went well. My OB told me she wouldn't update my EDD for less than 7 days difference in measurement. It's all a guess day, really.

Jenzen I'd be annoyed with belly rubs when it's not huge. Much closer to my personal space and... it is kinda weird that early.

QOTD: Any big Easter plans? We're not doing traveling or anything, just going over to my parents, which is very close. But, between going to the Vigil and making some things for the dinner (cake, deviled eggs) I feel exhausted just thinking about it. Still, it's my favorite holiday and I'm really looking forward to it.

[Pamela]

Just a quick post then back to bed. Now that this little kiddo has decided to start moving, she's really moving! Last night as I was trying to fall asleep I kept feeling this little tap tap tap, kind of like being poked in the belly but from the inside. And this morning she must have been having soccer practice or something 'cause she was kicking up a storm! It feels really cool, kind of a little thump thump, then a pause and then another thump thump :) I swear, I can almost feel it from the outside sometimes.

[MichelleRenee]

I had my first appointment today with the actual doctor and it went well!

My thyroid felt enlarged to him so I had to have a blood test to check on that. I have had my thyroid tested many times because I am always tired and the tests always come back normal. I wonder if being pregnant will change that. Then he used the doppler and we heard the heartbeat! It was so nice to hear it. It was at 160. Then I had the joy of experiencing my first pregnant pap smear. Because of my tilted uterus he had to insert the speculum at a really odd angle and it hurt! Then I had a bunch of blood from the pap smear. He said it was normal and all that, but I just don't like it!

The doctor also said that my tilted uterus (which he referred to as a "really" tilted uterus) was the reason my belly seems so big so soon. Everyone is convinced I am having twins but it is just my uterus coming out of hiding.

So it was a good appointment. Next time they want to do the Quad screening test and I don't want to have it done. I am not in any of the risk categories and it just seems like there are too many false positives. I'm just really torn.

My next appointment is May 9.

[Michelle]

MichelleRenee - I have a tilted uterus too and that pap I got at my last appointment hurt like it had never before. So don't worry! You're not alone. I was almost in tears during my appointment because it hurt so bad. Glad to hear that you heard the heartbeat!

Pamela - Sorry to hear that you are on bed rest. Just think about the baby! :) Yay for feeling the baby move!

Bunnybeth - Sorry to hear about the headaches and nausea. I've had some headaches too and they are no fun! I hope you're feeling better!

Jenzen - Belly rubs, gotta love. I've been warned to prepare for random hands coming at my stomach!

JeanT - The Fox News interview is sitting on my DVR. Hopefully I can watch it tonight!


------

I have nothing exciting to report. Feeling fine so I guess I should not complain. It's funny that you guys are saying that you can feel baby. I felt something strange (a fluttery feeling) a couple of days ago but didn't think too much about it because I thought it was too early. Now I'm beginning to wonder if I felt baby? Now I'll be on the lookout! :)

Hope everybody is doing well!

[Jenzen01]

michellerenee - add me to the list of tilted uteruses. didn't know they made speculums that long ... :)

[marathongirl]

jenzen - oh yes, definitely showing faster w/#2! What I look like now is about what I looked like around 22 weeks with DD.

nutter - I'm not so worried about me catching things that DD brings home, but I'm worried about #2 picking stuff up. DD will be starting preschool in the fall and I'm worried what might find it's way home from there.

Yeah to everyone who had good appts and NT scans!

jeant - congrats on your TV interview!

pamela - sorry you got 2 more weeks of bedrest! Maybe catch up on some reading?

Hello to everyone else!

tylenol - I think I took 4 tylenol the entire time I was PG with DD, but I fell down a flight of stairs last week and really did a number on my back and left arm. I've taken more tylenol in the last week than I have in the last 2 years.

I feel so guilty - I never, ever drank a diet soda after I found out I was PG with DD. I'm not a big soda drinker anyway, maybe 1 a month if that. But since yesterday, I have been CRAVING diet orange Sunkist so I drank about 2/3 of a can today. I felt too guilty after that so I dumped the rest out. Hopefully that craving won't strike again.

[Ericka_Jarett]

MichelleRenee - Just wanted to comment on the quad screen. My OB actually was relieved when I said I wasn't having it done, she said she was going to suggest I don't either. There are too many false positives and there is enough to worry about already in pregnancy without something you don't even have most likely. Plus it's not like it was going to make me change my mind about the baby.

Easter Plans - none really. Will go to church and than come home and cook some ham and sides. Not sure if my mom is coming down or not now. (I don't have to cook tomorrow!!! we are going out for my b-day dinner, yes!!!!!)

[Bubeleh]

Easter Plans - We actually don't celebrate, but Passover starts tomorrow, so its a week full of parties. Should be fun!

Pamela: Since you have to stay in bed (assuming you have wireless internet) and that you know you are having a girl why don't you spend the time picking out everything for the nursery, researching cribs/strollers/carseats etc. That would give you a nice head start to registering, and may help pass the time more quickly. Very cool that you can feel the baby, I can't wait!

[emermel]

Just to add to what Bubelah said (that is what my grandmother calls me!!) you can add things to your BRU registry online.

Actually, what I did when I was pg with DD was keep the registry "unreleased" for a long time. I would add things that I wanted to look at later int the store while I was at work (bad employee :p ). That way if you get to the store and don't like it, nobody else knows that it was on your registry.

Feeling pretty good here. I too think that I *might* be feeling the critter, but I'm just not sure. DH was asking me when I felt DD and I couldn't remember exactly. I remember going for our big u/s at around 17 weeks and the tech asking me if I was feeling movement and telling her that I thought so, but I don't remember when it started.

I'm also MUCH bigger this time around in the pregnancy that I was with DD. I know that I changed pretty much to maternity clothes at around 12/13 weeks with DD, but they were way big. Given, I am bigger to start this time, but I'm not having to safety pin all of the clothes.

Speaking of maternity clothes, I have a SERIOUS bone to pick with Old Navy. It is supposed to be 97 degrees tomorrow....97 degrees...and they have NO maternity shorts!!!! We live in Arizona...it's hot here...we're pregnant and always hot...WE NEED SHORTS!!!!

Ok...had to get that out of my system.

[maplekitty]

It is supposed to be 97 degrees tomorrow
.

so jealous!!! :p
Mind you it's been a pretty mild spring so far, but I'm so ready for the summer heat! :D

[SlvSpring]

Hello everyone! I have been MIA for so long! It is with night school (3 nites a week), work and being pregnant, I have just been so tired! I feel so lucky! I have no had a M/S or small/food aversions at all. Which is is good but at same time I feel like I have been so hungry!!!

I actually had a kind of scary thing happen at my last appointment. I was supposed to be 11w 5d and they tried to hear the heartbeat and they couldn't. The doctor did an exam and said by uterus seemed small for how far along I was supposed to be. He said he wanted to schedule me for an ultrasound so I went in the next morning. Meanwhile I was so scared that something was wrong and I started to not feel lucky about my abscence of preg. symptoms besides being bloated and tired.

But at the ultrasound the next morning, TADA! All our fears were calmed and we saw the baby. It was so wonderful! We saw the head and body and little arms and legs and it was moving all over the place! It looked like it was doing flips! We also heard the heartbeat (it made me cry). So, at the ultrasound it looked like a I was measuring either 10w 2d or 10w 3d. So it looks like my DD will be moved to right around Halloween!! So then we are thinking that if it is a boy we would like to name him Jack!!;)

So I have just been feeling lately like I am HUGE (although people around me tell me I'm not) maybe I am just bloated and my boobs feel enormous!! And although I have not had physical preg symptoms, I have been been feeling the emotional symptoms. I have been a royal b$#@$ and a short fuse over the past couple weeks. It seems to be getting better though.

The only thing I am disappointed about is that now I am even further away from the 2nd trimester than everyone! Oh well.

I am going to try to visit more regularly now.

My next appt is April 19th
I will give my official updated EDD after that appt and I talk to the doctor and we decide if it will be 10/30 or 10/31.

[Quartercentury]

Thank you, ladies, for the belly commiseration/support. While I don't think I look pregnant at all to the untrained observer, and I still fit into my regular clothes, but I am not imagining that my belly is getting bigger! Here's 4 weeks (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v448/quartercentury/October%202006%20Pumpkin/4weeksside.jpg) (the day I got a BFP) and 12 weeks (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v448/quartercentury/October%202006%20Pumpkin/12weeksside.jpg) (this past Sunday). Now, I'm not sure how much of that 12 week belly is bloating, but I can't suck it in anymore, which must count for something.

emermel, I am jealous of your need to wear shorts. I am wearing wool trousers and wondering why they all of a sudden feel itchy around my waist.

SlvSpring, I'm glad everything worked out okay at your last appointments. I am thinking there's a decent chance that my due date will get changed, too, when I go in for my ultrasound tomorrow.

[dzmattie]

Question -

NT - I had my u/s yesterday but they said they don't do the blood work there....did you have your blood work for this test in your OB's office before/after your u/s? Or am I totally confused....I can call my OB but thought I would see what you all did....

[Bubeleh]

Dzmattie: Sorry I can't help, I didn't have the NT.

Happy Birthday Erika!

Question for you ladies. I've been having fairly strong pain in the back of my hips. Almost to the point where I was in tears last night when I got up to go to the bathroom. Do you think its pregnancy related, or maybe I just sat wierd and tweaked something? TIA!

[pickle]

Did anyone else have problems getting on to CC this morning?? I was scared that the employer had cut off my access!;)

Dzmattie, when I had the NT, the blood test and ultrasound were done at the same office (a reproductive geneticist, not my usual OB) about a week apart. I did the blood test first and got the results from that when I went for the u/s.

MichelleRenee, I'm having issues with my thyroid too. I think I posted about it earlier, but during my first appointment, my blood work came back with the thyroid numbers a bit wonky. Apparently this isn't uncommon during the first trimester, so they said not to worry and did a recheck at my appointment on Monday (the theory being that things should have regulated themselves now that I'm in the second trimester). My numbers are still low (T3 was low, T4 was normal). So the OB wants me to see my internist about this. I have an appointment first thing tomorrow morning, but in the meantime have been freaking myself out on the internet. Fingers crossed that both of our thyroids shape up! I remember someone posted some info in the old thread when this issue first cropped up for me. I'm going to go look for it now.

[Ericka_Jarett]

Thanks Bubeleh

Was your pain more on 1 side or both sides? If one it could be like the sciatic but it's called: pelvic girdle pain http://www.babycentre.co.uk/refcap/564618.html If it's both, sorry can't help. Hope it passes soon though.

pickle - I had problems this morning, I had just finished updating this thread and when I went to put the updated to here post, it shut down.

[dzmattie]

On the thyroid issues - I have Graves Disease which is an overactive thyroid -it developed randomly after I had DS. It is a mild case and I have been seeing a endocrinologist for the last 6 months. I see her every 6 weeks for monitoring and blood work. Basically - she doesn't want to treat me for symptoms for now - she said babies usually thrive in an overactive environment and will continue to monitor me closely. My symptoms haven't been too bad so far so I am comfortable with this path. Thyroid issues run in my family heavily so I wasn't surprised this came up.

Just thought I would share some infom....

[Bubeleh]

Thanks Erika, that sounds exactly like what I felt last night. I'm going to call my dr. and see what she says.

I had problems getting on cc this am too.

[lawgirl4]

happy passover everyone! :)

dzmattie, I had my NT/blood draw at the same office as pickle. I would just call your dr. and ask them where you should have your blood drawn.

bubeleh - I have been having all sorts of pains/pulling around my hips - from what I have heard it's totally normal. I'm seeing my OB this weekend at a family event (she's a friend of my SILs) so I'll be asking her about it, but I think it's normal. :)

emermel - I've seen a ton of gap maternity shorts on ebay - I'd head over there! :)

[maplekitty]

Well the doctors office just called to remind me about my appnt tomorrow.....uuumm, *what* appnt tomorrow!?!?! LOL The doc told me to schedule an appnt for two weeks after my last visit, which would be this week, but when I went out to make it there was no one at the desk and I stood there for a good 10-15 mins, so then I went home. I forgot to call and make the appnt., but I guess they made one for me? :p
Anywho, this is good because I need to talk about a possible iron deficiency, and also continuing cramping where my cyst is. Who knows, maybe I'll be sent for another u/s and we can see the baby again! :D

[jenniferlynne]

Hi everyone!

I had my NT ultrasound yesterday, and it was both good and bad: Good because we saw the little one in there, and it was moving around like crazy, measured exactly right for how far along I am, had a heartbeat, two arms and two legs, but the bad part was that because my uterus is SO tilted (I guess there are a lot of us in here!), they couldn't get all the measurements they needed for the screening. SO, we get to go back in next week. All in all, it's not so bad, just kind of a pain since I'll have to arrange a babysitter for DS and DH has to take more time off work.

It was actually kind of comical because, as I was told to do, I drank LOTS of water before my appointment but apparently, my bladder was too full. The technician needed to push really hard to try to get a good image of the baby, but it was so uncomfortable with such a full bladder that I couldn't relax my stomach muscles. So she sent me off to the bathroom with a cup and told me to empty out half a cup full. I did that (not easy but good Kegel practice), came back, we tried again, but it was still too full. So, off to the bathroom I went again. We repeated this three times before she finally gave up!

Really, I'm just glad that I finally got confirmation that there is a baby in there and that it's doing what it should be doing for this stage!

emermel: I just saw a ton of maternity shorts at Motherhood Maternity. I've actually been looking for long-sleeve shirts and long pants because we're still having crummy, rainy weather here but I'm having trouble finding them. 97 degrees sounds like heaven! But not if you can't find comfortable clothes...

quartercentury: I can understand how you feel about not showing much yet. The feeling fat but not looking pregnant part is no fun. With my last pregnancy I didn't really show at all till about six months, though none of my pants fit. I couldn't figure out why since I actually lost some weight b/c of morning sickness. But then I measured my waist and found it had grown four inches! :eek: Maybe that's what's happening to you too?

[Rippy1010]

The doctor also said that my tilted uterus (which he referred to as a "really" tilted uterus) was the reason my belly seems so big so soon. Everyone is convinced I am having twins but it is just my uterus coming out of hiding.

Add me to the tilted uterus club, too!! I can't believe there are so many of us in one thread!! I feel better that you said this quote (above) because I was wondering why my stomach seemed so much bigger than it should. This must be why. I had my appointment today, and I did not gain any weight from last appt to this one. However, my stomach is HUGE!

My next appointment is 5/11 AND my 20-week U/S is 5/19!!!

[Ericka_Jarett]

fashionbug has lots of maternity clothes too. I got a bunch on clearance a few weeks ago, some were summer things at that. Can't beat a shirt that is only $3.00

[maplekitty]

Updated to Here

maplekitty - funny you forgot your appt, we didn't, it was on the first page already :)

lol, you mean i *did* make the apnt?!?!?!? LOL, I seriously thought this woman just made an appnt for me without me knowing! I completely 100% forgot I even made it!

[Pamela]

Bubeleh, I don't have wireless internet (darn it!), so I just check my email and check in on here once or twice a day. The more I move around and get up the worse my contractions get, so I try to spend most of my time just lying on my back.

emermel, 97 degrees already?! Ugh! I totally hate really hot weather and spend most of the summer inside with the AC on :p

Quartercentury, I can see a change in your two pictures, its slight but its there. I think I'm finally starting to round out a bit, its starting to look pretty obvious to me at least.

Maplekitty, too funny you forgot your appointment! I'm always counting down the days till mine, it seems to take forever inbetween them!

Tilted Uterus, funny there are so many in here! Mine's tilted too, but mine tilts towards my back, and it was originally leaning a bit to the left too. I figure thats partly why I'm taking a while to really start showing.


Just laying around and counting down the days till my ultrasound next week (Only 7 days to go!).

[emermel]

Add me to the tilted list.

Strange thing here...I definitely look pg when I am standing up, but I am still pretty flat when laying down. Is anyone sticking up while laying down yet? I periodically do get the "melon" syndrome that someone described, but I'm not sure if it's my uterus or my bladder. I don't think that I can really feel my uterus if that's not it.

[jeant]

pickle I'm hypothyroid and on thyroid hormone, so ask away if you have any ?s. My advice is to ask for your TSH number. Labs have varying definitions of "normal." At some labs, a TSH of 4 is within the "normal" range, but you might feel like crap (because 1 is actually closer to normal -- TSH is *lower* when you have more hormone, because your body isn't stimulating your thyroid to make more). And your level should be lower when you are pg., ideally. (Which is why when you are hyperthyroid -- as someone in the thread already posted -- they often don't need to treat you during pg.)

Michelle If the interview is still on your DVR, it will be about 50 minutes in. I'm wearing a green suit.

MichelleRenee I know what you mean about the quad screen. There are *so* many false positives. I'd say don't do it unless you are willing to follow up a positive with further tests (special ultrasounds or amnio). You are also very young, which lowers your risk.

I am sooo tired today! I thought I had kicked the first trimester tiredness thing, but I guess the getting up at 3am for TV really kicked my butt yesterday and I'm still recovering. I hate feeling so tired -- it's like being sick with the flu. Yuck.

[MichelleRenee]

Wow. There are a lot of tilted uteruses (uteri??) in here! Makes me feel much less like a freak. I've been to the GYN plenty of times and they never said anything. At the ER about 5 weeks ago they said it was tilted. Then my doctor said on Tuesday "wow... it is really tilted." I wonder if it has always been tilted because no one has ever mentioned it.

emermel, I don't really "stick up" when I lay down, but I do a little. The area between my hip bones used to dip down when I would lay down pre-PG, but now is has a slight "bump" to it.

[Quartercentury]

Is anyone sticking up while laying down yet?
If by "sticking up" you mean "there is no longer a concave space between my hip bones when I am laying down" then, yes. Just like MichelleRenee. This is huge progress for me! I've been accused of having an eating disorder all my life, but really my metabolism just goes really fast! A poofy stomach is very exciting! So exciting I made a little 'montage' (if two pictures can count as a montage :p ):

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v448/quartercentury/October%202006%20Pumpkin/412.jpg

I should also point out that a Krispy Kreme opened in my town last week. This may have something to do with the poofy stomach.

[MamaBear]

I haven't been in here forever! There has been so much going on around here. We went to a wedding last Saturday. I had a great time. I still think that I looked fat versus looking pregnant. :rolleyes: My aunt and cousin have been visiting from New York this week. It has been alot of fun having them here but it seems as if all the free time we have is spent visiting them. I am so tired now. They are leaving today and I am looking forward to doing nothing tonight!

Had the NT on Monday. Even though we heard the HB at our last appt., I was still a little nervous before the u/s. As soon as she put the wand to my stomach, there it was! My Mom went with me as DH was working. She had her face so close to the screen. It was so cute. She was so excited because she thought that all she would see was a blob. This baby is an active one! It was moving all over the place. (By the way, I hate calling the baby "it"!) The baby was pushing back against the wand, turning its back on the tech, putting its hand up to its mouth. It was all so cool to see!! Couldn't feel any of the movement at all. The tech gave us some pictures. I will have to get my scanner working so I can post them.

The measurements were within the normal range. The doctor that came in to talk to us was the same specialist that we saw for DS. He said that everything looked good. I had a large vial of blood taken after the u/s. I go back in a couple of weeks for the last blood draw. We will get the results a week after that.

Feeling pretty good lately. No more nausea, not as tired. I can't wait for this weekend! Nothing to do Saturday. Mom will be cooking on Sunday for Easter. Mmmmmm. A Mom meal.:D I will try to get back later to do so's. Hope that you all are doing well and have a great day. The weekend is almost here!!

Sara

[Maxicat]

Went in for my 12 week tests and to see the Perinatal Consultants (because of my advanced age) and we got the most beautiful picture of my baby girl.

I have to admit we were surprised because I thought for sure I was having a boy, I don't know why I just did.

But we got the money shot. Baby was very cooperative. The Dr said she passed her ultrasound with flying colors and that I would know about the rest of the tests on Tuesday. I am nervous about Down Syndrome but it is out of my hands now.

I have to start rethinking the decoration of baby's room names.

[pickle]

Maxicat, congrats on your girl!! That's so exciting.

QC, I can definitely see a difference between your two pics. And now you have me craving Krispy Kreme...

Thyroid Update: So I had an appointment this morning with my internist. My OB was supposed to fax over my lab results and didn't (grrr), so we just went from my notes and they did another blood draw. I should have the results tonight or tomorrow morning. My NP said that she was pretty sure that I must be hypo because if I am hyper the OB would have referred me to an endocrinologist instead. It sounds like it won't be too bad. She said (pending my test results) that I would need to take one pill a day and have blood draws at least every six weeks to make sure that my levels were where they should be. Is that what your routine is too, jeant?

[Sua]

Maxicat - Congrats on your healthy (and cooperative) daughter! :D

QC - If that is what a Krispy Kreme belly looks like, I'm going to start eating some! You look awesome!

Mamabear - Glad all went well with your NT scan. And, glad you are feeling better!

Pickle - I am hypothyroid as well. I take 100mg of Synthroid every day and have my levels tested each trimester. I did have it tested twice early in my pregnancy and it looked like my levels were steady so I kept my meds the same as pre-pregnancy. Just like Jeant advised, I'd keep track of each set of test results you get back. There is lots of info on the web about where your levels should be during each trimester and sometimes it can vary with what a lab's normal range might be. Then you can be armed with the best info to ask your doctor more questions, if need be. Cant be too careful, right?

[Bubeleh]

Maxicat: Congrats on your girl! So sweet of her to bare all for the camera!

[She-Ra]

Between traveling & moving I got way behind again, but think I'm caught up.

That is so cool that some of you are already finding out gender! Damn-I should have asked if they could peek during my NT screen!

Congrats Maxicat on your girl, and pickle on your boy-I bet your husband doesn't miss any more appts!! So exciting to find out, isn't it?!

MaplekittyThat is hysterical about your appt-I have total PG brain lately, and it driving me nuts b/c I am pretty anal & hate being an airhead.

I think I felt some fluttering the other day, but I was on a plane & it could have been from the motion.

[Jenzen01]

maxicat - Congrats on your girl!!! Man, I can't believe some of you are finding out so early. I'm just trying to be patient over here, because I have to wait for my 20-week ultrasound.

Threadmistress, please change my next appointment to April 24. We are going out of town next weekend, so I had to change the dates.

movement - I think I'm feeling the baby. I've had a couple of little taps in the past couple of days. But, who knows?

OK, and in the possibly-TMI-camp, I've got blood in my stools. I looked it up and it sounds like internal hemmorids. Guess it's really common with pregnancy, but I'll be sure to ask my dr. Sigh .... Anyone else with this?

[lawgirl4]

wow, two u/s sex "confirmations" already! how exciting! congrats maxicat!!

is it possible to crave something you've never eaten before?!!? :p I saw a food network show on mussels the other day and they looked soooo good. But I've never had them before - although my mom and sister love them - how funny is that? I think I'm going to have to try some this summer when we take our anniversary trip to Maine.

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

early this morning I awoke with my worst headache ever - terrible pain in my neck and base of my head, and then in the center of my forehead. My dr's office basically recommended benadryl (I have a lot of congestion) and tylenol for the pain... hopefully this will help me get some sleep tonight. I also broke out the humidifier - I can't deal with this anymore!

[marathongirl]

maxicat - congrats on your girl!!! - I had no idea they could tell this early from an u/s!

[nutter13]

Hi girls,

Quick question: Is the NT screening part of the regular screening your Dr. does, or was it done for a special reason?

My Dr. wasn't going to do it, but when I asked he said I could if my insurance covered it, if not, not a big deal. Just found out I'd have to pay the $400 up front, submit the codes myself but that all but $55 would be reimbursed. I'm trying to decide if I should go through all the trouble or jsut to skip it since we didn't do it with DD.

TIA:)

[TaterBaby]

early this morning I awoke with my worst headache ever - terrible pain in my neck and base of my head, and then in the center of my forehead.

lawgirl, I have these headaches almost every day! I can't decide if it's a pregnancy symptom or if it's the Spring weather and allergies. Either way, they need to go.

Congrats to those that are finding out the sex! Only about 4 more weeks until my Big u/s!

QOTD: Anyone rent a fetal doppler? I just ordered one yesterday. I feel like the time between my last appt and this one coming up on Monday has been FOREVER. I'm anxious to be reassured that things are ok and I think having the doppler at home will help.

[pickle]

Tater: We decided against renting a doppler. If my doctor couldn't find the heartbeat with one on Monday, I'm sure I wouldn't be able to find it half the time either. And then I'd just be freaking out constantly. I'm hoping that once I start to feel him moving around I'll be reassured by that and not wish for the doppler.

Mmmm, mussels! They are delish, lawgirl! J and I used to always order them at this italian place by my first Chicago apartment. I would send you there for dinner, but it has been torn down. :(

Thanks for the thyroid advice, sua and jeant. I will definitely be asking for numbers when my test results come back so that I can keep track of these things.

Oh, and threadmistress, I just scheduled my big level II u/s for May 22. We'll see if the first one was right about this being a boy!

[Ericka_Jarett]

QOTD - nope, I have appts every 2 weeks, so will be hearing it a lot.

Speaking of dopplers, we finally heard the heartbeat today on the doppler. Doctor got it in about 10 seconds and it was nice and strong. Had no questions for her, since I have appts so often, complex stuff I will ask the perinatalogist.

[Bubeleh]

QOTD: No Doppler for us. So far the pregnancy has gone smoothly so we didn't feel a need for the extra expense. We have another U/S in 18 days and I'm hoping by then I'll start to feel movements, so there really won't be a point for us.

Nuttter: I not too familiar with the N/T. Its not on my OB's list of scheduled testing, but maybe it has something to do with the mother's age, or the level of risk in the preganancy or genetic factors. I'm sure one of the other girls will be able to help you out.

Lawgirl - Mussels are really good especially with a yummy pasta. Enjoy it when you go to Maine!

Question: I tried searching for this but came up with nothing. Does anyone know how what week you are in correlates with what month you are? Is is as simply as 5 weeks is the start of month 2, or do the months start counting at week 2 since generally that's when conception occurs? TIA

[maplekitty]

My next u/s is May 5th
and my next Doc appnt is May 15th

[Michelle]

Jeant - I caught your interview on Fox News. You did fantastic! :) Way to go! Your book sounds really interesting. I think it might be something that I'll have to invest in since I'm going to become a parent!

Ericka - Yay for hearing the heartbeat! :)

Pickle - Congrats on your boy!

Nutter - I have not heard of this test from my dr. either. I think I'll ask her next week when I go in.

Lawgirl - You're not alone. I've been getting headaches too and they are no fun. I hope you feel better soon!

Jenzen - Be sure to ask your dr. about that. Your explaination makes sense, but better safe than sorry!

Maxi-cat - Congrats on your girl!

QOTD: Nope, we're not going to rent a doppler. I'd also be too paranoid if I could not hear the heartbeat!

[Sept&Oct06Moms]

This from a website asking the same quesiton bubeleh: We seem to have made this as confusing as possible; don't ask me why! The average pregnancy has 280 days, 40 weeks, or 9 months plus 1 week, counted from the first day of the last menstrual period. In other words, we start counting about two weeks before the baby is actually conceived. We also talk about "trimesters" of pregnancy; the first trimester is weeks 1-12, the second weeks 13-28, and the third weeks 29-40 or whenever the baby is born. To make matters even more confusing, recent statistics have shown that the average pregnancy these days is actually closer to 41 weeks; in other words, your baby is likely to come about a week later than that "due date" you are so focused on. I like to talk about a "due month" with my patients; that is really much more realistic. http://www.storknet.com/cubbies/pregnancy/exns21.htm

[jeant]

pickle The routine you described is basically what I do. I take a pill every morning. The downside is you're not supposed to eat for a 1/2 to an hour after you take it. I can't always do that, though, with m/s, so I figure I'll just do my best and if they have to adjust me to a higher dosage, so be it. They check levels through blood every six weeks or so. Usually you have to have the blood drawn a week before the appt and then they will see you at the appt and see if they need to adjust your dosage. Taking the pill every day is not a big deal -- it's small, and I just leave it on my nighttable with some water and take it as soon as I wake up.

The book was in today's USA Today -- I'm so excited. Maybe lots of people will read the article in airports when they are heading places for Easter weekend!

[MidwesternGal]

Hi All!

I haven't had much to post about, so I've just been following along! Maxicat, congrats on the girl!! And Pamela, I hope you make it through bedrest okay!

Doppler--We heard the heartbeat at the doctor's, so I don't feel the need. Plus, it's just one more expense we can avoid!

Testing--My doctor doesn't seem to big on testing. We're young with no genetic disorders that we know of, other than a distant (think 5th or 6th cousin) on my side with Down Syndrome. I am paranoid and would like to test, but then again, we don't really have a reason to. I'm writing down all these tests, but since I'll be 16w+ at my next appointment, it might be too late for some of them.

ETA: Threadmistress, please change my age to 25 and DH to 24! Thanks!

I'm officially up exactly 8 pounds. Yipes! I started walking the dog for 3 miles instead of 2 to help counteract that. I know that my stomach is supposed to be getting bigger, but um, there's no baby in my thighs!! :eek:

The biggest problem I have been having lately is that I'm literally STARVING all.the.TIME!! It doesn't matter how much I eat the meal/snack before, I am so hungry I feel sick about every 3 hours or so! I think I'm an early gainer (or so I hope, because this needs to slow down!), and that maybe the baby is having a big old growth spurt. I have been feeling my uterus expanding, but no baby movements quite yet, so I assume the kid is getting bigger--resulting in my constant hunger!


Lawgirl--I'm still having headaches, so I understand your pain! Tylenol and me have become inseperable! And sadly enough, it doesn't even work that well!

[Lily]

maplekitty - Thank you for bumping up those threads.

Jenzen01 - Thank you for posting your list. I love reading the opinions of women who have been through this all before. It's so helpful.

Sua - Glad to hear that your NT scan went well.

pickle - Congratulations on seeing your little baby BOY!!!! That's so exciting.

Pamela - Sorry to hear that you're on bedrest. I hope the remaining time goes by quickly.

Maxicat - Congratulations on on finding out your having a little GIRL!!!!

************************************************** **
16w2d

Yep, my due date was officially changed today to September 26th. It's not that much further ahead, but makes me feel like I need to start buying things. My BIG u/s was scheduled for April 24th, which is only a little over a week away. Very excited to find out if we're having a boy or girl. I'm picking up conflicting vibes from my "motherly instinct" and have had dreams where I've delivered a girl in one and a boy in another, so I really have no clue. :)

I can't imagine leaving this thread now, because it's still a huge possibility that I'll deliver the first week of October. I guess if the baby is born in September, I can always join that thread then. Anyways, I also took my glucose test today. The orange drink tastes like Crush soda, but starts to feel really sweet after the 3rd swig or so. :) The lab technician said it was like eating a candy bar, but I think it felt like I had eaten 2 candy bars afterwards. I'll get the results of that in a few days. Oh yeah, I also wanted to post that I have a tilted uterus too! Mine is tilted back like Pamela's, and I'm not showing that much either. I mean my belly is getting bigger, and my pants tighter, but compared to other PG women I've seen at 16 weeks, I'm not showing that much at all.

QOTD: Easter Plans - I don't really have any scheduled plans. Our families live out of state so I'll probably just cook a small ham and a couple of side dishes for DH and myself.

[MichelleRenee]

MidwesternGal, I'm hungry all.the.time as well! I started that way around 4 weeks, but it went away from 6-8 weeks while I had nausea and stuff. But ever since I am just HUNGRY. I can literally eat 1/2 a peanut butter sandwich, and within 5 minutes I feel like I haven't eaten in hours!!

Tomorrow I am 12 weeks. Everyone keeps saying "oh, you'll be in the second trimester then!!!" As much as I wish they were right I know they're not. And they look at me like an alien when I say "actually I have another couple of weeks to go."

[Quartercentury]

Congratulations on your baby girl, Maxicat! Yay! :)

QOTD: We're not planning to rent a doppler. I am too skeptical of the technology to be using it daily.

Lily, I can't believe you got "magically" moved to 16 weeks already! Wow! You're super pregnant!

I had my NT scan last night, and the baby looks perfect. The risk of Down's, Trisomy 13, and Trisomy 18 are all under 1 in 15,000. Skeptical of the technology though I may be, it was just so damned cool to see the baby. Perfect little fingers and everything. It had its hand up by its forehead for most of the scan. I think it is practicing to be a drama queen.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v448/quartercentury/October%202006%20Pumpkin/12weekscanblur.jpg

Nutter, we decided to have the test done because it's more reliable (and can be done earlier) than other tests for chromosomal abnormalities. We wanted to be as sure as possible that the baby is healthy. It's the only pregnancy-related thing we will have had to pay for (not covered by the National Health Service in my area, but not $400 either), but the peace of mind was worth it to us.

[marathongirl]

lily - congrats on being moved up to a Sept momma! Sept babies are great - I have one myself!

jenzen - I had the bleeding problem off and on w/ DD. Definitely not fun.

jeant - when is your book available?

nutter - I only had the N/T done b/c insurance covered it and I wanted the u/s to get a glimpse of the baby. We are very low risk and the results would not change our minds about the pregnancy. If we had to pay I would have skipped it.

Doppler - I rented one w/ DD around 20 weeks and used it a lot until I felt her kick everyday. Then it sat on the shelf until I remembered to return it :rolleyes: . This time, I am not going to rent one. It's $25/month that we can save.

Midwestern Gal - walking the dog so much may also be helpful in labor for you. I ran until I was in my 6th month w/ DD and I really think it helped with labor as well as keeping the weight gain under control. I was a competitive runner prior to getting PG, so it wasn't something I started afterward. I'm still running now, but it's much harder this time since I never got back into competition shape and I chase DD around all day.

I took DD to see Sesame Street Live on Wednesday. She loved it and was mesmerized! It was fun to see her dance when the characters danced.

Easter plans - pretty low key. Just down to my parents for the day. My mom put me in charge of making potato salad so I need to start that today.

My appt is Monday morning and I CAN NOT wait!!!

[Jenzen01]

Morning, all!

It's nice out today. We had thunderstorms last night, complete with hail ... and DH and I left our vehicles out. :eek: At least the hail wasn't that big, and it didn't last that long. A few years ago, we had a round of golf-ball sized hail that really damaged our vehicles. Most of the houses in town had to have new roofing after that.

Anywho, Easter plans ... We're going to my in-laws on Sunday for lunch and an Easter egg hunt. Gabe's Easter basket has a football, a new sippy cup, a book and a little John Deere tractor in it. I think I'll bake some cookies tomorrow, as well. We had to find a church with an early service because we have to be at my in-laws by noon, so, it's going to be a full day ... but I'm looking forward to it.

marathongirl - Glad I'm not the only one with this little problem. :) It' been sort of off and on for the past week.

qc - Beautiful pic from your ultrasound! Glad everything went OK. By the way, you look great in your pictures ... don't worry ... that belly will grow faster than you can imagine pretty soon.

Well, I better get some work done. It's sort of quiet around here because I think a lot of people took Good Friday off.

ttfn,
and HAPPY EASTER!

Jen

[bunnybeth]

Been feeling better the last couple of days, but once again I am totally exhausted all the time. I was falling asleep all day yesterday- at work, at Holy Thursday Mass with my mom, once I got home...

Happy Easter!

emermel Hope you're able to find some maternity shorts, that's some hot weather you're getting. My brother was in Phoenix last week, and he hates hot temps, so he was just miserable.

SlvSpring That's great that the u/s showed your healthy growing baby. It's not to surprising they couldn't hear the h/b that early, but still scary.

jenniferlynne Oh, I hate having to drink all that water before the u/s. At my hospital the stupid waiting room has water fountains- talk about torture! Hopefully next week's will go better for the screening.

Maxicat Congrats on your girl!

lawgirl Oh, I hate the waking up with a headache, what a terrible feeling. Hope you're doing better now.

QC Great u/s pic, what a cute little baby you have in there.

QOTD doppler I wanted to rent a doppler, but DH wouldn't let me. So, I'm trying to patiently wait for my next appt. It's probably better this way.

[emermel]

So I'm having some spotting and I'm REALLY not happy about it. It's really just brown discharge (sorry if TMI). I had some last week too but it stopped. I called my doctor's office and I am waiting for them to call back. I am hoping that they will get me in today. We are leaving town on Tuesday to go house hunting in Missouri (and to tell our families that we are pg) and I HAVE to know that all is well. Logically, I know that at this point my risk is low, but I still don't like it and am a worried.
:(

[marathongirl]

emermel - hope your doc gets you in! Positive thoughts!

[Michelle]

Enermal - I hope that you can get in with your doc! Keep us posted!

QC - Fantastic Ultrasound picture!

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

I have a question: Does anybody feel pain in their hips when they lay down at night? It's really strange, when I lay down at night on my side my hips hurt. I just wondered if anybody else felt this and if it was normal? Thanks!

[jeant]

emermel Thinking good thoughts for you! I'm sure everything will be fine with it being brown and just a little. But I understand how you feel!

Michelle I haven't felt it when I lie down, but I do feel hip pain at other times, usually while standing. It's weird. I have also started to have many more times when I can feel the ligaments around the uterus and generally can feel that something is getting heavy there.

marathongirl The book is out! It was published April 4. Just search for Generation Me on amazon, or look in the Sociology section at Borders, Barnes & Noble, etc.

It just started pouring rain here and I am so proud of myself I managed to get in a swim before it started!!

[emermel]

Just got back from the doctor's office and all seems to be well. Got to hear the heartbeat (Finally!) and it was wooshing away around 150. My doctor was great! I'm not that crazy about the nurse that I initially called, but I really like him. In theory though, I'll only see him a couple more times (if all goes well) before we move. The good news is that I think that I'll be able to go back to the doctor that I went to as a teenager. He is the doc who delivered my sisters, so it would be pretty cool to have a second generation!

Thanks so much for the well wishes and good thoughts!

[Pamela]

Nothing new to report here. Except that my belly is finally popping out! I guess all I needed was a bit of bedrest. So for the next month I'll just lay here and expand :rolleyes:

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y145/MrsPamela/Baby/15weeks2days.jpg

Maxicat, congratulations on your Girl!!

Quartercentury, great ultrasound pic!

emermel, I hope that your spotting stops and everything's ok! I was spotting again for a couple of days earlier this week, but I had just had an internal exam and figure that was why.

[marathongirl]

Just dropping off my 16 week belly shot from this morning.
http://images.snapfish.com/346838296%7Ffp346%3Enu%3D3239%3E645%3E638%3EWSNRCG %3D3233657%3A69363nu0mrj

http://images.snapfish.com/346838296%7Ffp344%3Enu%3D3239%3E645%3E638%3EWSNRCG %3D3233657%3A6589%3Anu0mrj


Compared to 13 weeks :eek: :eek: :eek:
http://images.snapfish.com/346838296%7Ffp342%3Enu%3D3239%3E645%3E638%3EWSNRCG %3D32335%3B37564%3A%3Cnu0mrj

Definitely showing faster the second time around!

Happy Easter!

[maplekitty]

marathon - you've definitely popped in the last three weeks! :)

[lawgirl4]

just a quick post to say hi - I've had a busy past few days, with my parents in town for passover...

so this morning I finally was able to sleep without being woken up by a headache. amen! I saw my doctor yesterday at my nephew's bday party (she's friends with my SIL) and she also recommended caffeine for future headaches - either a can of coke/pepsi or a cup of black tea. she said it can often help quite a bit.

we also chatted about the "quad screening" or "united screening" (which combines the NT/first tri screening results with blood tests taken at 16 weeks) and she doesn't recommend it - for the same reasons that circulate these boards: too many false positives. she said her last 3 patients had false positive results and all did amnios and everything was fine; she feels it creates unnecessary stress/risk (from the amnio). Apparently it's gaining popularity in Europe, but she doesn't feel the tests are accurate enough to warrant doing them at this point. I will, however, do the AFP (at my next appt, I think?).

Gotta run - I'll be back tomorrow to post 14 week photos! Hope everyone has a happy easter!

[emermel]

I'm looking pretty much like Marathon (although I'm two weeks less pg :rolleyes:)

I told my mom today. Of course she argued with me about the fact that I'm not telling my grandmother for another few days. There are just too many connections between my grandmother/her friends and my in-laws. We think that it would be pretty upsetting to my IL's to find out from someone else (or to find out that someone else knew before them). It's just so frustrating that she can't EVER respect what I ask without questioning it. AARRRGGGHHH:mad:

She's happy about the baby though.

[MichelleRenee]

Well I am sick again. I woke up in the middle of the night because my stomach was a little upset. My throat felt a little sore then. When I woke up this morning it was more sore and my nose in runny. I have that overall sick/stuffy feeling and I don't like it. My sister said it is because my body is so focused on taking care of the baby and giving it every vitamin and nutrient I eat. Well my body better start taking care of itself too, because I need to be healthy too!

[MidwesternGal]

Hi All!!

marathongirl--Yup, you definitely popped in the last few weeks!!

Well, we just got back from IL's Easter. We had the total opposite reaction from them than we expected--rather, well, "calm" for them!! Seems everyone is surprising us with their reactions to our announcement. However, I guess one of DH's friends found out from his dad at dinner (yup, word travels fast!) and he said he about choked on his ham! :)

So pregnancy vent here: I'm SOOOO tired of feeling FAT!! I wish I'd start showing!! I'm a bigger gal to start with (size 14/16) and have always carried my weight in my stomach. . . . now it just looks like I've gained 15 lbs (which I haven't!) in my gut and thighs!! UGH!! I need some roundness--not just a couple new inches of "thickness!!" Anyone else in this situation? DH and I can tell, but when I catch a glimpse of myself in a mirror, I just see someone who looks simply "bigger" not necessarily preggo!!

In other news, we're moving into a rental house the first weekend of May, and my family and his family are ALL coming to help--YIKES! Lots and lots of people! But on the plus side, it'll get done really fast! Yippee!!

I hope the rest of you had wonderful Easters and a good Passover!!

[maplekitty]

So pregnancy vent here: I'm SOOOO tired of feeling FAT!! I wish I'd start showing!! I'm a bigger gal to start with (size 14/16) and have always carried my weight in my stomach. . . . now it just looks like I've gained 15 lbs (which I haven't!) in my gut and thighs!! UGH!! I need some roundness--not just a couple new inches of "thickness!!" Anyone else in this situation? DH and I can tell, but when I catch a glimpse of myself in a mirror, I just see someone who looks simply "bigger" not necessarily preggo!!



yup...I have those days too. However I find that wearing obvious maternity shirts, even though I'm not hugely round, kind of gives off the impression of pregnancy better than just trying to hide the added weight.
:p

[Mrs-Mac]

MidwesternGal - I can so sympathize with you. I also want a cute round baby belly instead of just feeling lumpy in the middle. I was about a size 10 to start and haven't really gained any weight, but just losing my waistline. I can still fit into most of my normal clothes, but I do feel fat. I *know* I'm not, but its hard when there isn't a cute round belly there. So I'm just waiting patiently to start showing.

MichelleRenee Sorry to hear you are sick again. Are you getting enough sleep? I know normally (i.e. - not pregnant), lack of sleep can weaken your immune system. Well take care of yourself!!

emermel Glad everything is okay with the baby and hope the spotting stops soon!

Not too much to report here. Can't wait to start feeling better and get some energy again. I haven't felt really horrible, but my stomach bothers me alot. My next appt is May 4th.

Hope everyone had a good weekend!

[jbemommy]

I'm on the larger side too since having DD, and I find that when I wear maternity tops I look much more pregnant than fat. My belly has really started to show in the past week--I think I look more like I did at 20 weeks with DD. I was going to wear a non-maternity sweater yesterday that I just wore a week ago, and it was too tight.

[lawgirl4]

hi everyone!

my headaches seem to have subsided, thankfully! I was able to spend a good part of the weekend catching up on sleep, so I'm not too exhausted today for work.

I'm not a large person, but I'm not super-thin either; I was about 10 pounds above my ideal weight when I got pg. However, I too have noticed a "thickening" in my upper thighs and I swear my hips have widened already! My suspicions, however, are that in just another month most of us will be looking genuinely pregnant and these feelings just won't be there anymore. :)

[nutter13]

Good morning everyone :)

Well, I called to schedule the NT and they said I was too late that it had to be done by 13 weeks and that would have been by yesterday. At least it has made my decision much easier.

lawgirl4 The Dr. said the same thing to me about headaches, try some caffiene. I've been having about one a week, so yesterday I had some cherry coke and it did help a bit, and went away completely by this morning. I would have thought caffeine wouldn't be good for a headache!

QOTD - Will any of you continue to dye your hair or get your nails done during your pregnancy? And if so do you do anything about the smells in the salon, like wear a mask?

I'd love to dye my hair b/c it is getting gray up front, but I didn't do it last pregnancy, so I'm really nervous about doing it.

Also this morning my boss painted her nails in her office, and crazy, worry wart me is worried about sitting in there for too long b/c I'm afraid of the fumes. She says she can't smell it anymore but, my super sensitive nose can smell it. Do you think I need to worry or avoid it? I was in there for about 20 minutes this morning. PLease help reassure a worry wart!

Oh, and yes I rented a doppler. I've used it 3 times so far. It is very reassuring to me when I feel better, but don't feel the baby move yet.

[TaterBaby]

nutter, I have an appt today and one of my questions for my dr. is about dying my hair. It needs it badly! I will report back. In the 1st trimester, I got highlights, but it's needing overall color this time around.

I am a little nervous about my appt. today. It's been 4.5 weeks since I've been, but it feels like 3 months. I haven't had any problems and I'm sure everything is fine, but I'll still be nervous. My doppler is scheduled to arrive tomorrow, and I wish I had thought to order it sooner and had it between my last appt and this one.

The most exciting thing today is that we'll schedule the BIG U/S. We're going on vacation May 12th so I will request to get in before then!

[She-Ra]

I hope everone had a wonderful Easter/Passover/Weekend.

I am totally feeling flutterings now! I just love that feeling, and I kept doubting myself at first b/c it seems SOOOO early, but I guess I know what they really feel like this time. DH is sad he can't feel anything for a while yet.

Marathon You have popped-& you are carrying much higher than me!

Emerel That is frustrating when parents still treat you like you are a teenager!

Lawgirl Coke has cured my PG headaches pretty consistently, and I'd rather drink some caffeine than take a tylenol for some weird reason!


QOTD: I don't dye or highlight my hair, but I have gotten a few pedis already since I've been PG. I just breathe out if I catch a fume.