August 2006 Mommies ~ Our Sizzling Summer Babies are arriving!

[jesseybell]

Anxiety Big time!
-Anxious to go into labor - I hate pain! I really want to be able to hold out to 4-5 cm to get an epi, but I might not be able to.
-Anxious about what our life is going to be like: I have so much stuff in life I still want to do (a lot of it can be done with a child) but while understanding our lives are going to change, not really being able to comprehend it
-Excited and anxious about taking care of a newborn. I have NO experience with newborns and very limited experience with young children.

[Chimichanga]

So much to think about!! :D

QOTD1: Things left to do:

buy and hang curtains/blinds
Have furniture delivered
wash clothes/bedding
buy bedding, mattress and a few other odds and ends
Pack hospital bag
type out "call list" for DH
Clean the house!!! (my mom said she'd help me scrub)
frame some pictures for the baby's room
install carseat - tonight I'll be attempting this


QOTD2: Anxiety - yeah, starting to set in. I feel like I'm not as prepared with things that I want to be (basically stuff around the house). DH is NOT chipping in with chores and it's really starting to piss me off. Yeah, I said it. He's really angering me. I hate living in a dirty house - disorganized okay, dirty yuck! He doesn't mind it and won't clean up. I'm so tired lately that I just don't have the energy. So I'm getting very anxious about the household chores that I won't be able to do. I'm afraid I'll be sitting, feeding the baby wrapped in a sheet because I have no clean clothes!!

PLNUBRIDE - I also like Lily Morgan. :)

You bring up a very good question... I'd love feedback on the names DH and I like. We're waiting until we meet her to finalize the name, but I'd love some feedback/thoughts on the three we've narrowed it down to. We're sort of second guessing ourselves now ;)

Cameron Joy (although I'd like to spell it Camryn)
Meghan Elizabeth/Augusta
Reagan Elizabeth/Augusta

[amyinlosangeles]

Chimichanga LOVE both Cameron & Reagan - both were on my list of names!

[UTChick]

QOTD2: Anxiety - yeah, starting to set in. I feel like I'm not as prepared with things that I want to be (basically stuff around the house). DH is NOT chipping in with chores and it's really starting to piss me off. Yeah, I said it. He's really angering me. I hate living in a dirty house - disorganized okay, dirty yuck! He doesn't mind it and won't clean up. I'm so tired lately that I just don't have the energy. So I'm getting very anxious about the household chores that I won't be able to do. I'm afraid I'll be sitting, feeding the baby wrapped in a sheet because I have no clean clothes!!


This is exactly what is going on in my house!! I am a teacher, so I am "not working" right now and DH is working and taking a class for his MBA and not lifting a finger around here. Since I am "not working" I guess I am now in charge of 100% of the household chores. I just don't move as fast as I used to and I can't clean fast enough to keep up with him cluttering up the place! Plus cleaning tubs and showers is a joke! He is just going to have to do that. Can you tell I have issues with my DH's comments about me "not working?" Who does he think is putting the baby's room together, grocery shopping, cleaning, cooking, doing laundry, running errands, etc. etc. at 8 months pg in 100 degree July weather? Whoa. Looks like I had some stored up frustrations. Can we just blame that on hormones? :o I think maybe it is time to bring up the discussion of getting a housekeeper again. ;)

[babylove]

Great diaper bags everyone!

QOTD: Surprisingly, I'm not feeling much anxiety about Truman's impending arrival...yet. I truly think I'm in denial. Right now I'm focusing my anxiety on about the birth itself (I'm not good w/ pain or being out of control). But as for when he's actually here, I feel quite confortable about it. I have tons of experience with babies, so I think that helps. I'm sure this will all change as it gets closer or when he is actually here. The one thing I'm nervous about is BFing...I want this to go well so badly.

PLNUBRIDE~ I *love* Lillian Morgan. I totally wish I could use the name Lillian if I ever had a girl, but my grandmother HATED her SIL and that was her name...grudge much? :eek:

Jen~ I love both Reagan and Camryn :)

[mrstim]

Anxiety - yup. Yesterday after getting the nursery finally done, I sat in the glider and burst into sobs. DH thought I was losing it, but I could barely explain that I was just overwhelmed. Looking around at all the "stuff" just WAITING on his arrival was SO shocking. Kinda a dose of reality, you know? Kinda a moment of "ok, almost everything is ready - he's really coming SOON!" It's so easy to look ahead saying I have xxx number of weeks when it's a big number, but when you start thinking in terms of days it's mind-baffling. Plus I do have quite a full schedule in the next 4 weeks - so much is going on that I'm afraid I won't be able to handle it all. We have CB classes, I'm in charge of crafts at our Bible School, plus trying to enjoy these last few weeks, now that my lovely morning sickness is returning - blech. I'm not so worried about the BIRTH itself, b/c I feel that someway, somehow this baby is coming, no matter what - it's got to come out of me. I trust the docs enough to know that he'll get this baby out someway. My anxiety surrounds the whole coming home thing - when it'll be just DH and I and the baby - neither of us have experience and I'm terrified!

Announcements
I designed my own. They're waiting in a file here on my computer, all I have to do is input the correct info, upload to Shutterfly, and order. The envelopes are addressed and waiting, when the prints come in 3 days later, I can stuff the envelopes and send them on their way! Easy and cheap, which was a super-duper requirement. (btw, this isn't his name, just a name I put in to show the announcement)
http://images1.snapfish.com/34754%3C96%3A%7Ffp344%3Enu%3D3254%3E962%3E847%3EWS NRCG%3D323384457%3A%3B35nu0mrj
http://images1.snapfish.com/34754%3C96%3A%7Ffp342%3Enu%3D3254%3E962%3E847%3EWS NRCG%3D323384457%3A%3B36nu0mrj

[LTJC]

I've just resigned myself to the fact that I will never be able to keep up with the pace of this thread! THANK YOU for the thoughts when I went into the hospital for potential pre-term labor! I'm almost 34 weeks, so I'm out of the woods according to my doc.

Thanks for posting the virtual shower gifts; I loved seeing what everyone received...just confirms the notion that we are all fabulous ladies here:)

Chimichanga - love all three names, but ESPECIALLY love Augusta!
PLNUBRIDE - Lily is on our short list of names, but I really love Liliana as well.
amyinlosangeles - are you going with a bold nursery color ala the Frida Kahlo nursery of my dreams? I'm still dreaming about that nursery...
Abby'sMom - Glad to hear you are out of the woods as well in terms of pre-term labor!
jennylou - a pediatrician who listens, and I mean really listens is such a great thing. Sounds like you have a winner.

QOTD
Anxiety - Not so much. Maybe as a RO, I feel like I know what to expect? Plus, I'm just too busy with DS, DH, and full-time work...
To-do list - clean and install car seat, clean bottles, buy some diapers, unpack 0-3 clothes, and pack a bag.
episiotomy/tearing - didn't want the epi, had a small tear with 3 stitches, healing time was fine.
announcements - maybe http://www.inababycarriage.com? We have over 125 to send out, so I need to be a bit economical...
Diaper bag - I have a Coach tote that I used last time, but it's being retired. I'm looking around and considering the Skip Hop, Fleurville, or Paulina Quintana. Maybe I'll just splurge on a great tote for myself and use it as a diaper bag. I have had my eye on the Kooba Ada which could serve double duty (no pun intended)...

[amyinlosangeles]

mrstim very cute announcements - i'm impressed!

LTJC - this thread seems to go through spurts.....some days it's super quiet, other days it's hoppin'! That Frida Kahlo nursery totally changed my entire idea of what our nursery was going to be - it's definitely going to be bolder than what it was going to be originally - but just a tad more muted than Dana's (more of a muted teal and then a sage green in the nook) with dark wood furniture and sage bedding. I'm really excited about it! Now if only the friggin' painter would show up. :(

[LTJC]

I forgot to add two things to my to-do list:
1) - Have DS toilet trained:)
2) - Help DS make FINAL transition to the big-boy bed:)
If only #1 was truly possible...

amy - sounds great. I can't wait to see how it all turns out; make sure to post some pics when you are done. DH is an artist/graphic designer and I think he felt some longing for a Dali-esque nursery after seeing the Frida Kahlo.
babylove - I'm jealous of the bris planning. I'm the jewish half of an interfaith marriage and while, YES, I needed to have DS circumsized, we didn't have a bris. It's one of things I try not linger on, but I'm thrilled to hear you are planning the celebration. An advance mazel tov!

[mloveya]

Hello girls...

I am sooo sorry that I have been MIA once again...I am sooo busy right now I am in the middle of moving and getting everything together I don't have time to do anything!! I can't believe how fast time is flying!!!
I wanted to thank whoever got me the really cute onsie for my shower gift. I haven't had time to take a picture but it was really cute. Thanks! Let me know who you were that would be great!

I have been getting a lot of contractions on and off this past week. It's probably because of all the work I have been doing around the new house. I definitely think this baby is going to come out early as opposed to my DS who was a week late....

It has been really humid and hot in NY but thank God today is a gorgeous day. I started to swell a lot but not as much as I did with DS. I wonder if he will be as big or smaller thank DS. I go for a sonogram some time next week don't have a date yet to see how much he weighs.

I hope everyone is doing well! I definitely have to read up and catch up and then do some shout outs!!

Maria

[Camdynlyn]

MY DIAPER BAG IS IN!! They just called! It was supposed to take 4-6 weeks and it's been a week and a day! I can't wait to pick it up! :)

[Camdynlyn]

Here's today at 31w4d.
http://static.flickr.com/51/184254009_25e51799bd_m.jpg

[cocoa_femme]

Cross post from parenting thread...

I was watching one of those shows on Discovery Health, and the new parents had spreadsheets to track feedings and diaper changes (both just urination and BMs). Have any of you ladies heard of this? Are they needed/useful? Anyone have a sample to share with me? If so, my email address is cocoa.femme@gmail.com.

TIA!

eta: Summer, you look great!

[Camdynlyn]

Cocoa: I've got several books that have sample ones. One I found was the EASY (Eat, Activity, Sleep, You time) method (based on Secrets of the Baby Whisperer). I used this method while nannying and found it successful, although there are a TON out there. Here's a sample:

http://www.ferbit.com/bw/easy_log.htm

There is another in the Pregnancy Childbirth and the Newborn book I have.

ETA: In the book above, there's is simple. It list the hours of the day across the top and you are to put a straight line through the times the baby is asleep, a jagged line when the baby is awake and crying or fussy and a curly line when awake and content. Then, you put feedings in a box and record for how long. An X designates diaper changes and she puts activities (bathing, playing, rocking) in a circle. I find this method pretty easy, personally.

If anyone already has one typed up, I'd love a copy as well. PM me for my email address.

[Chimichanga]

Cocoa_femme - I've heard of the spreadsheet, but I don't think we'll be doing it. I had seen a *really* cute bracelet in one of the 10,857,439 parenting magazines we have at home. You move the charm to the time of day your baby last ate and change wrists for the last breast your baby fed from. Really cute - I'll find the website and post it when I get home.

[Abby'sMom]

Cocoa - I hadn't planned to do that with DD, but we ended up having to do it since she had mild jaundice and feeding issues from the get-go. You could even make one yourself, if you wanted. It's a very simple spread with columns for type of waste (BM v. urine), date and time; and for feeding we just noted it on a plain old spread - time on each side, time of day. And if we supplemented, we noted when and how many oz.

[Camdynlyn]

I should also note that when I nannied, the mom kept a cute diary book on the kitchen counter where we recorded all his major happenings (rolled over front to back today, ate 5 oz at 9am, had runny BM at 10am, etc). She still has it and has one for her new child. It's great to look back on!

[Chimichanga]

The announcement thing... I'm going to have them done. One of the girls I work with had really gorgeous announcements made (plain, but pretty). She said her sister designed them and would do mine for free if I wanted. They are 4x6 and I can pick them up at Walgreens. All I have to do is provide pictures and give a general theme if I want one - she'll do all of the work and provide me with some proofs. I figure it's a good deal. Plus, Walgreens is pretty cheap so we can handle that.

And, this sister made my work shower invitations and they are really cute - I'll have to scan one in. :)

ETA - Ericka Jarett - no, but those are cute. The one had green beads and charms.

[Chimichanga]

Ahh - found some!
http://mommygear.com/images/TheNursomgBraceletBlue.jpg
from: http://mommygear.com/the_nursing_bracelet.htm for $30 - they have lots of different colors too.

I also found a few on eBay for $25.

http://www.breastfeedingexpress.com/unique_mums/images/glass_semiprecious1_small.jpg
http://www.breastfeedingexpress.com/unique_mums/index1.htm for $30

I like the look of most of these - I didn't know they were as common as they are. I did a quick google search and came up with tons of sites.

[cocoa_femme]

Thanks, ladies! You totally rock :).

[jennylou]

Announcements:

I'm pretty sure that I'll be using www.inababycarriage.com - I think she's also giving 10% off to CC girls - she used to have a classified ad, but if you're interested, you should check it out. :)

Had a BPP, NST and OB appt today. BPP went well, except this little stinker has turned breech! NST went perfect. I had to see the other OB today, instead of my OB. She's nice and all, but she's not my doc. :p

[Camdynlyn]

I finished my birth plan! :) Whoo hooo! I'll take it with me to my next doctor's visit to have them look over it and see if I need to make any changes or if they can answer some of my questions and then we are good to go. Mark that off the list.

Tomorrow, I'm going to pick up my new diaper bag that arrived and buy some nursing pajamas/gowns! It's getting more real.

QOTD: Do you think you'll try to do anything to 'bring on' labor? I know it'll come when it's ready but I read all about primrose oil and raspberry tea... what do you think?

If I'm feeling desperate and miserable, I may try drinking some tea! I rock on my ball nightly!

[craftgenius]

Hi! I just wanted to pop in to say hello to you all. I joined the Sept 2006 mommies thread since my EDD is Sept. 7...but my doctor has scheduled my C-section for August 24. So I guess technically I'm an August 2006 mommy! I was just scanning through your last few pages, and I am loving all the cute diaper bags you ladies have chosen. I need to take some time to find something really cute! Your time is getting really close ladies! Anybody getting nervous???

[ajlanden]

Last call for labor buddies! Let me second Abbysmom thoughts that it is a great way to really bond with the fellow mommies in the thread!

Checking in from my slow dial up at home, so I just answer a few QOTD. I'll catch up with everyone on Monday.

Bring on labor-Last time I tried the Raseberry Red Leaf Tea, Pineapple and spicy food. I was induced, so that shows you how well they worked on me!

Anxiety-Mine is actually growing, rather than diminishing. I feel good that I have gotten some stuff done to get ready for #2, but I am getting more nervous about how DD will react to the new baby.

annoucements-Haven't thought about it...

diaper bag-This just isn't a big deal this time. I have two that will work fine.

To Do-TO much to think about now! I need to update my list though!

Have super rest of the weekend. I am busy with my HS reunion!

[jesseybell]

Last night I was pretty uncomfortable - I don't know if they were technically BHs, because each one didn't last very long, but overall I was very crampy.

I finally took off my rings :( It was incredibly hard to get my e-ring off, even with lotion and liquid soap, so I don't think they are going to go back on. Right now my finger is too swollen to even fit my e-bay rings on. I feel so naked!

[Abby'sMom]

Hmm. Well, I can pretty much just say ditto to most of Ashley's post. I'm way more worried about how DD will react to the baby than anything else. And my HS reunion is this summer too, though it's next month across the country so I'm not going. :)

Happy weekending.

[Camdynlyn]

I went and picked up my diaper bag today as well as 2 nursing gowns from Kohls (reguarly $42 marked down to $16). They come with robes too. I figure these would be good to wear in the hospital and on the nights I'm at home.

I'd love a due date buddy if anyone needs one but I can live without since I've got people on here that will more than likely be at the hospital to see me. If anyone needs one, let me know.

Bean's moving around like crazy. I think she turned and I'm now getting kicked/punched on my far right side and under my boobs. It's uncomfortable but I'm dealing!

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

[Abby'sMom]

Kohls is totally awesome sometimes, isn't it? :)

[amyinlosangeles]

just wanted to say welcome to Craftgenius! Yes - I'm getting VERY nervous!!!

ajlanden Good luck with your reunion! Is it this weekend? Or are you just preparing for it?

jesseybell - sorry about the uncomfortableness - and I'm right there w/ya on the rings - haven't worn any in weeks.

Camdynlyn What kind of diaper bag did you get? I can't remember if you posted a pic or not - I'll have to go back and look.

jennylou - love Amber's announcements - every design is adorable!


Bringing on labor - at the rate I'm growing I will probably be desperate to try anything - even (gasp) DTD - which hasn't happened in a long, long, long, long, long, long, long time! Don't know if DH will want to - I don't know if he's scared or just not into it - I'm packing 50 extra pounds - so not a turn-on!!! A friend of mine on this board went into labor with her babies both times after DTD so I may have to force myself on him if I'm miserable and desperate!

I've pretty much given up on sleeping - I'm lucky to get in a few hours every night. I am SO uncomfortable, and it is so painful to get up once an hour to pee - my lower back is jacked! At my Dr. appt. he freaked out about my most recent weight gain and told me I can't exercise anymore and to keep activity to a minimum. He's very worried about me developing pre-eclampisa at the end even though my BP is perfect.
My feet are swollen up like balloons 24-7. The painter never showed up yesterday so my mom and I attempted to paint the nursery ourselves - not a great idea.

As far as birth announcements - I'm taking on extra stress with designing my own - Being a graphic designer there's a little pressure there to do something myself, plus I want to; I just hope I don't get as crazy and ambitious as I did w/our wedding invites!


I'm laying low today - DH wants me off my feet - he's still mad at me for painting yesterday. Hope everyone has a great day!

[Abby'sMom]

Amy, definitely take it easy! I have to say, the 3rd trimester is not my friend when it comes to weight gain, and it wasn't with DD, either. No matter what I do or eat, I still gain between 2 and 4 lbs a week. :rolleyes:

[Camdynlyn]

Abby'sMom: Kohls does have good sales but I find their maternity line outrageously expensive without the sales! I also gain between 2-4 pounds a week now. I'm up to 23 pounds now.

AmyLA: I got the Fleurville Sling Tote in Floral Sky!

[amyinlosangeles]

Abby'sMom You're right - it's just so hard when there's SO MUCH left to do! I'm worried that now w/no exercise at all I'm going to gain another 15-20 pounds in 5 weeks!!!
Check out my feet from yesterday - (I normally have super skinny ankles)
http://hedlab.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/dsc04297.jpg

Camdynlyn - Love that print - very cute!

[Abby'sMom]

Summer, no kidding on the prices there most of the time. When things go on clearance, though, they're usually not too bad. I got a nice top for a funeral a few weeks ago and it wasn't too expensive. Maybe you'll be one of the lucky ones who gains most of her weight in the last trimester. I know that's me! It's probably mostly water, though, in case you're worried about it. :) I think I was up maybe 24 at my last appt... I think. My OB didn't even blink at the gain since I did the same thing last time.

Amy, I remember taking pictures of my feet last time as I approached 40w. :) Good thing is you'll look back and laugh over it later, really.

[duke's flygirl]

Happy Saturday Evening Ladies!

WOW, I missed out on a ton yesterday and Today. I kept DD home from Daycare yesterday, and I was WIPED out by the end of the day! My DH was supposed to be home early, but wasn't, and then decided to mow the grass in the evening! SO I got her pretty much ALL day by myself. Without much of a break. I did nap when she did though. My friend Teri came over for a bit too, but that cut into my napping! Not that I'm complaining at all!

Jen: You look great! I love the colour of that top, it looks great on you!

Glad you NST went well. Gotta love when they just won't perform when they are supposed to right! Also glad the appointment with the dietician went well too!

The diaper bag you posted looks great too! My DH wanted one that he could carry too, so we got the pattern that matched our Graco Quattro Travel System, but it is no longer on line!

I love Reagan Elizabeth! But all the names you have are great! I love the spelling of Camryn too for a girl!

Those bracelets look really nice, but I really don't see how practical they are. Like I said to Bree, I used a safety pin on my bra strap that I moved to the other side at the end of a session. It worked for us.

JenniferH: Glad you like the gift! I had fun shopping for it! I wanted one of those monkey hats myself!

Jessie: Sorry about the docs lack of bedside manner! That sucks!

Jenn: I can't wait to see My Little Man in the sleeper! It is just so cute! It is funny how the doctor's minds work. I don't think that I will be having internals at all this time, and my doc didn't care that the baby "might" be breach now! She said it didn't matter since I was having the repeat C anyway!

Ashley: I was actually very good at the grocery store and only bought good food! I know shocking! I wanted Ice Cream SO bad, but I refrained!

I could have written pretty much your entire update, but changed the names!

Love your belly shot! You look great! I forgot one this week!

Amy(mrstim): Glad you had a good appointment! That is fantastic that you were in and out so quickly! Hope the childbirth classes were informative for you! YEAH for having the base installed! I really have to get on DH to do that one! You are so far ahead of me on being ready!

I have a Land's End diaper bag, and a Graco one that I will still be using for this one! With Ryleigh I use a smallish backpack that everything fits into. We got it when DH and I volunteered at the Bell Canadian Open when I was about 32 weeks PG with her. Love the colour of yours!

How bizarre on the foot! I think I have been feeling body parts too, it is a really weird thing!

Great announcements too!

Tracee: You are correct! Solo grocery shopping is great! I love the cradle! Glad to hear that the bris planning is underway! Love both your diaper bags, but I guess I am just a cheapy!

Sherry: YEAH for no more progress! and for being cleared to do things again! I totally second all you said about the Labour buddies too! Thanks for telling Ashley about us pairing up!

Gisell: I can't believe they have PICTURES of that! WOW!

Cherish: Glad you had a good Doctor's appointment! Everything looks great! I didn't realize that you could get a yeast infection there, but I guess with the sweat build up and it being skin on skin, it does make sense.

Summer: That is a gorgeous diaper bag! The print is great! YEAH for your diaper bag coming in! You look great!

Yeah for getting your birth plan done too! Glad you got some nursing gowns. I wore the hospital gowns while there, since I didn't really want to worry about getting blood, etc on my clothing. Then when I got home, I wore my DH's oversized t-shirts with my nursing bra for MONTHS!

AmyinLA: That is a very nice diaper bag! WOW! I didn't know they came in Leather, but then again, I should have guessed! The other 2 look great too!

I can't wait to see your nursery!

I'm pretty close to your weight gain! :) But I was there last time too, and LOST MORE than I had gained after having DD!

I'm sure your announcements are going to be beautiful!

WOW Look at those feet! I hope they have gone down some!

Jenny: Glad you had a good meeting with the Ped! Sorry to hear about the Hot Water heater. I hope it is a quick fix for you guys!

Bree: That is a great bag!

I didn't keep track of DD's bowel/bladder habits after we left the hospital, I just watched the number of dirty/wet diapers mentally. I kept a safety pin on my nursing bra strap that I moved to the other side when I was done with a session( we did one boob a session and it worked for us). But I do know that Tracy Hogg, the Baby Whisperer has a book, and also a site where you can download her spreadsheet. HTH.

Kathy: I'm sure your SIL tired you out! Hope you were able to rest up!

Don't you just love the "but your NOT working" right now comments! Sorry you are dealing with them too!

PLNUBRIDE: Very nice diaper bag! I like Liliana Morgan with the nickname Lily!

LTJC: Glad things are going well with you. LOL at your todo list with yoru DS! I wish that were possible in our house too!

mloveya: Good to hear from you! Glad things are going well with you.

craftgenius: Welcome to the August Mommies Thread! I think I remember you from WC, didn't you get married 16 Aug 2003?
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
QOTD's

ToDo List before Baby gets here:
The list is just too long right now! I'm working on it though!

Birth Plan: Not doing one again this time. Especially since I know it is a c-section and it is on my docs as such.

Anxiety: Yes and No. It is weird, some days I wonder HOW in the world I am going to deal with TWO children, let alone, 2 under 2, but then other days, I just can't wait to meet him, and see who he is like and all that! I am also very curious to see how my DD is going to react to the new baby

Announcements: I still haven't decided yet, we just bought the ones from the hospital last time, and we really weren't all that thrilled with them, so we are thinking about what to do this time.

Bringing On Labour: I'm not doing anything! I didn't last time other than my doc sweping my membranes, and since I have to have the repeat c-section, I'd rather NOT go into labour before my date! :)

Rings: So far they are all still fitting well.

I think I am all caught up now! WOW that was a long entry!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My friend Kelly and her DH are staying with us, but have gone out for supper. They are racing in Road Bike Races this weekend in the area so are using our house, which is central as a place to crash! It is great to see them, as I haven't seen Kelly in almost a year!

DH got DD's room all painted today, we have to take the blinds back to have them re-cut since they are a bit too long. Her furniture is getting delivered on Wednesday, and now DH and I have decided to TRY the big girl bed that night too! Wish us luck! I'm nervous about it! We are trying to decide whether or not to get a monitor for her and leave the door shut, or just get a gate to put across the door! Any of you RO's who have transitioned have any words of wisdom? They would be greatly appreciated!

Little Man has been moving around like crazy the last couple of days, and I have been exhausted like crazy too! I think I will make it an early night!

Hope you all have a great rest of the weekend!

[mrstim]

I'll apologize first for not having the energy to do replies - our first Childbirth class today was exhausting, add shopping afterwards and SHEW!!! But anyway....

We bought our convertible carseat today!! Yes, it's for after using the infant seat, but I stumbled upon a Britax Roundabout for a whopping $109 today at Target. I couldn't resist - so it's now a part of our closet waiting for lil'man to grow up!

I ran into a lady at Hobby Lobby with a newborn - we stood around and talked for a little while. Her daughter was 2 months old. She asked how much longer I had - I said 6 weeks till my due date. Turns out she went into labor early - her baby was born at 36.5 weeks - so she said "Don't count on that 40 weeks too much - you might only have a few more weeks to go!" WOW! Her daughter was born perfectly healthy, and has no problems at all. 2.5 weeks - that's SO STINKING CLOSE!

Class was good!! We had fun - learned a lot of info, asked a bunch of questions, etc. There were 9 couples. It was rather neat b/c one lady beside me and I were talking - she was due Sept. 5th, and in talking, I noticed she was very familiar sounding. Then it dawned on me - she is one of the local radio station's morning show DJ!! That was cool. We went to lunch (I went to TJMaxx for a while) and then back to class to practice breathing and relaxation. I ended up SO relaxed, and I was SO PROUD of my hubby! He was great - counting off breaths, rubbing, counterpressure - he was fantastic! I was irritated at another guy there - he actually LEFT HIS WIFE there in the floor and went outside for a while. ARGH! Not to mention the fact that HE sat on the mat and his wife was on the floor. She was due Aug. 11th, then me, then the rest of the girls were due at the end of Sept.

One thing I did want to reflect on is about my feelings for the day.

This morning, befoer I left for class, I have to admit I was overwhelmed. I woke up early (couldn't sleep all night) and sat in the recliner for 15 minutes, crying. Just the "what ifs, can I's, and what have I done" came rushing in. I went to class - admitedly scared outta my pants.

Now that I've been through the first class (we went through all that a traditional 6 week class goes through except the explanation of medications offered, video of the birth, and hospital tour today, mostly all the bookwork) I feel SO much better. One thing the instructor STRESSED is focus on the positive. FOCUS ON THE POSITIVE!! Like for instance - in my case, the baby has dropped. That makes everything THAT MUCH HARDER to do. I can't roll over now, I can't hardly sit or stand w/o holding my belly up, walking is now waddling, etc. BUT - she said for me to focus on the positive, and the positive of him dropping is taht this is what he's SUPPOSED TO DO! You can't get to the labor point without him dropping, right? So focus on the positive. She also said "You can't take the pain away - that's impossible. Your & your coach's job is to remind yourself constantly to relax. Focus on relaxing through it all, not just focus on the pain."

Those few things seem so small, but honestly - right now I'm calm about this. Ask me during actual contrax, and I may say I was crazy now - but being informed (esp. about OUR HOSPITAL procedures, and not just what I read in books or here) helps. SO MUCH! I wouldn't trade today for anything. AT ALL!

Like for instance - before, when I had a BH contrax, Tim would just say "Aw..." Today, at Hobby Lobby - I had the most PAINFUL BH I've ever had. Like - it stopped me in my tracks. Immediately, Tim put his arm around me, and started counting off breaths. Yes, it was just a BH, but I was able to focus and practice my breathing - and it helped!!!! I think it did him more good than me - he's now wanting to go practice our "ah hee" breathing.

All in all - a good day. I'm very tired though, and these FREQUENT bathroom trips are killing me. No kidding - I'm in there every single 30 minutes, if not sooner. Last night I was in the bathroom every 20 minutes, and the production of rolling over, sitting up, etc. is exhausting. Oh well!!

Remember to KEGEL!!!! ;)

[JenniferH]

DS will be waking up from nap at any moment....count me in on the buddy list! Will write more later.

[Sabriel]

mrstim Yay for getting your convertable carseat! I am so glad that you are feeling more calm about labor and delivery. It is so important to be informed.

duke's flygirl Good luck moving DD to her big girl bed!

amyinlosangeles Sorry about the swelling! I hope it gets better. Sorry that you are hving trouble sleeping.

Camdynlyn Yay for getting your diaper bag!

To Do List Before Baby Gets Here:
- finish laying ceramic tile in kitchen and front room
- deep clean the house
- paint and hang letters for her name
- wash diapers, blankets, bedding and clothes
- install carseat and get it checked
- finish birth plan
- collect labor music
- pack bag
- call pediatrician
- take infant CPR class
- buy and address envelopes for birth announcements

Birth Plan: I have the outline of one, but I wasn't planning on doing too much with it. Our mw asked for one at our last appointment, though so I need to finialize it. There are some questions I want to ask her first.

Anxiety: The only thing I ever worry about it money. Everything else I am feeling pretty calm about.

Announcements: DH and I designed one a few weeks back that we are going to use. I just need to buy and address envelopes for them.

[jesseybell]

I can't believe I am going to be 37 weeks tomorrow- full term!!!

I have had 2 miserable nights this weekend - Friday night was crampiness and last night was an incredibly bad sinus head-ache that wouldn't go away that just compounded my fears that I am going to be a horrible person in labor because I hate pain and I hate to not be comfortable and be out of my element. Pretty much I want to cry each night when I have to go to bed because sleep doesn't happen and I am so uncomfortable. The hormones are definitely getting to me and I have been on the verge of loosing it almost daily.

But other than that (!) things are good: Bags are packed (as much as they can be) and we did a ton of cleaning today. The bathroom is finally clean! We didn't do as much "non-baby" stuff as I would have liked this weekend, but over-all it was a good weekend.

[amyinlosangeles]

Joelle - I hope I'm as lucky as you and lose more than before I was pregnant...somehow I don't think that'll happen, but who knows! We almost finished painting today too - just one more tiny nook!!!

mrstim - i am starting to get up twice an hour to pee too and it's killing me. sounds like your class was really helpful. i don't feel like i learned a ton, but the fact that DH was there and has a better understanding for everything made it totally worth it. you scored on the carseat!

sabriel - are you going to post your announcement? i'd love to see it.

jesseybell - full term - that is awesome! i have 2 more weeks and then i am ready to meet this little girl. i dread going to sleep every night because it just doesn't happen unless i take a unisom and i hate to have to do that every night.



Almost finished painting the nursery today. We still have one little nook that we're painting a different color and then it's done! I can't believe all the things that are left for me to do - luckily my mom comes over every day and helps since i'm supposed to be taking it easy (which i'm not).

Our infant care class is this Tuesday night - I'm looking forward to it. Off to go watch Entourage and pray I can go to sleep.

[babylove]

SOs only as far back as I can see...sorry!

Amy ~ Oy, your poor feet! Can't wait to see pics of the nursery paint!!

Joelle ~ You've been so productive around the house! I wish I could call it a a day at work so I could be completely organized at home before Truman arrives but that won't happen!

Amy ~ Right there with you on the bathroom trips. I must have woken up 5 times last night. :eek: It's such a production to roll out of bed each time and then get re-situated afterwards.

Cherish ~ Are you going to share the announcements you designed? I'm so impressed!

Jessie ~ 37w! :eek: I'm jealous that you're so close!! Sorry about the bedtime discomfort. I have that issue on and off...last night was bad. I just couldn't get comfortable. But, the good news is there is light at the end of the tunnel! Soon you will have a much better reason than a bladder the size of a pea keeping you up at night! :p

***

Nothing new to report, really. Truman is still really active despite being pressed for space in there. He still gets the hiccups constantly, which is kind of amusing. I've been feeling a lot of pressure and crampiness over the past few days, especially yesterday. I'll be interested to know whether there has been any progress whatsoever at my first internal on Friday. :eek: After Friday's appointment I go once a week. Yay! Isn't it totally sad that I'm super excited about seeing my OB once a week? :p Even if it means an internal! Blech!

I tried to put on my wedding rings just for kicks yesterday, and I couldn't even get them past my first knuckle. It's so strange b/c my fingers don't really look that swollen. :confused: I miss being able to wear my rings!

ETA: Why does it always seem like whenever I post, I start a new page in the thread? Strange...
And I just noticed that my ticker says 39 days!!!!

[duke's flygirl]

Amy(mrstim): Sounds like you had a very busy day. I'm glad that you feel better now after taking the childbirth classes. I know they eased a lot of my fears when we took them when I was PG with R. Sorry to hear about the multiple bathroom trips too. I'm not there yet, but I know I will be. I think it is because of where my little man is positioned!

JenniferH: Hope you are doing well!

Cherish: I'll let you know how she does! I'm nervous about it, but I know that it really is for the best that she is in there BEFORE this little one arrives, and I can get the crib BACK up to the top and he can nap in there from the start if it works out!

Your to-do list looks great! I still have a lot of the same things on mine too!

Can't wait to see your announcements too!

Jessie: Sorry about the trouble sleeping. I hope you were able to get a good nights sleep last night! YEAH For FULL-TERM! Glad you have your bag packed. My DH keeps telling me to get mine done, so I promised him I would get it done this week sometime!

AmyinLA: BFing was my friend my dear! That is all that I did! I'm sure you will loose the weight!

Can't wait to see the nursery! I just know it is going to be gorgeous!

I'm supposed to be taking it easy too, but that just doesn't seem to be happening here either!

Have fun tomorrow night at the Infant Care Class!

Hope you got some good sleep!

Tracee: I don't feel like we have been productive ENOUGH around the house, but that should change in a couple of days with the delivery of R's furniture and the move of her stuff into her room, and then me actually being able to wash and put away Little Man's clothing and things and get it off the bed, and get the crib all ready for him! Pack my hospital bag, and get 3 more appointments off my to-do list, make another one for my contacts....I could go on but I won't bore you with it! LOL!

I doubt that I will be completely organized before Little Man arrives, but I should be MUCH closer than I am now!

I find the hiccups to be a bit annoying right now, and I KNOW they are all full-body type and it still feels like he is tickling my cervix with each one! So annoying! But good at the same time and reassuring too.

WOW on the ticker and 39 days! I should go and check mine out, I'm sure I will be shocked!

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

As for me, today is a day of nothing really planned. I have to sort and file the BIG pile on my desk, write a few cheques, and get an application in the mail. I also have to make an appointment with the optometrist for new contacts. I wear monthlys, and I put this current pair in at the beginning of June...so it is time for some new ones for sure! I also have to do some more grocery shopping, and then have a nap too!

Tomorrow I have a dental cleaning at 815, then my doctors appointment at 10 or 11. I have to take the blinds back to Home Depot and have them re-cut, they are just a bit long, then go and pick up the panels and valance for R's new room and the bed rail so she doesn't fall out too. I can't wait for the furniture to be delivered for in there!

Hope you all have a great day!

[K&H's mommy]

Rude awakening this morning from DS. Ever since we moved he has been waking up at 5am (usually it was 7:30-8!) This morning he came in and quietly crawled in our bed and slammed his hands down on my stomach. NOT fun. Not the way I liked to be woken up out of a sound sleep! We have no idea how to keep him asleep, he is all goofed up!

Last weeks appointment went well. Up 4 pounds in 4 weeks (better than I have been averaging), BP was good, no swelling (yet!). Next appointment is in 4 weeks. My OB is different...you go every 4 weeks until 36 weeks, then every 2 until 40 weeks and then you go every week. My last day of work will be July 30th - woo hoo! I have a work shower on July 19th which I am excited about.

Birth Plan - None for us.

anxiety - since this is #3, none about labor or anything like that. I'm mostly concerned with how DS is going to react. 2 under 2 scares the crap out of me! I'm also anxious about when our darn house is going to be done, but that is about it.

sleeping - It's getting rough. My hips keep falling asleep and then they cramp up. UGH. Plus with DS and his early morning wake-up calls....

labor buddies - I'll have a girlfriend update for me when the baby comes.

diaper bag - oh I love diaper bags, but I'm trying to behave in my purchases! ;) I juse ordered this from Babystyle, love that store. http://babystyle.com/images/product/19518_MID_l.jpg

I am thinking about this one too....love the pink & brown since that's the color we are doing in the nursery
http://www.cadenlaneco.com/images/baby/pc_audrey.jpg

attempting s/o's sorry if I forget anyone. Going WAY back...

Joelle - not sure exactly what type of wrap that I bought - but I bought it online at www.hugabub.com I like that it's supposed to make the baby feel like you are hugging them the entire time - and your hands are free!

isaacsmommy - glad everyting is staying stable until you cook that baby some more!

jarocha - unannounced ILs? You mean you actually opened the door? :p

bluhimmy - I think the wrap is similar to the Maya wrap. I didn't use one with DS becuase we had some snuggli carrier and his face rested on the edge of it and he was uncomfortable. I thought this would be more comfortable for the baby??

babylove - Make sure you take pictures of the nursery mural!!! Love the cradle!

camdlyn - I had an episitomy with DD and thank goodness I did. Her head was off the charts it was so big. As soon as I got it she came right out. Healing went fine. I didn't need one with DS, they massaged as he came down the birth canal and that seemed to work out well.

chimichanga - you look great!

ajlanden - My DS was way more crazy in utero than DD....I hope this isn't the case for YOU but he is crazy on the outside too! This little girl I am carrying is a nutball as well so I worry that I am going to have two crazy kids running around, ugh! You look so cute in your belly pic, I'm slacking on them.

Sherry - so glad you haven't progressed anymore, whew! Although, hope you aren't like my girlfriend and then have to be induced after all of this, LOL!

sabriel - ugh on the yeast infection, never even thought about that happening under there but obviously it makes sense. Hopefully it feels better by now.

mrstim - love the diaper bag! How fun that you felt the little guy's foot! Your announcements look beautiful!

jennylou - ya for getting an apnea monitor. You will get it right after the baby is born, right? Did they think SIDS happened with Andrew?

plnubride - so jealous you are narrowing your names down, we can't agree it seems...I like Lily or Liliana Morgan

amyinLA - oh girl, look at those poor feet. Those were MY feet last pregnancy with DS. Nothing would bring that damn swelling down. Keep an eye on your BP since mine started going up when the swelling started getting ridiculous.

Ok, if I missed anyone - so sorry! But I'm hungry, time to eat breakfast!

[cocoa_femme]

Hi! I just wanted to pop in to say hello to you all. I joined the Sept 2006 mommies thread since my EDD is Sept. 7...but my doctor has scheduled my C-section for August 24. So I guess technically I'm an August 2006 mommy! I was just scanning through your last few pages, and I am loving all the cute diaper bags you ladies have chosen. I need to take some time to find something really cute! Your time is getting really close ladies! Anybody getting nervous???

Hel, Mel! It's bglenn (bree) from AAB.com & the WC. Welcome :).

[isaacsmommy]

Dr appt recap:

Weight: up 4 1/2 lbs since last WED :eek: (definatley due to swelling though)
BP: not so good 154/96
Urine: +1 protein
baby HB: 140's
Still no dialtion, but 50% effaced

Oh and I found out I'm GBS +. :( Poo Poo on that. My Dr seems more concerned this week especially with the 10 point jump in my BP and that my swelling is definately increasing (my feet are starting to look like amy's feet). She said we may have to take the baby if my labs come back showing a problem or if I'm doing worse come Wed. Then she said maybe a miracle will happen and I'll go into labor!!! Yeah right :rolleyes:, I couldn't get that lucky.

Attemping SO's- sorry if I miss anyone:

Duke's Flygirl-Good luck moving dd to her new bed! We've decided to wait a bit before moving I otherwise I don't think he'd ever stay in bed!

Babylove I understand what you mean about being excited to see the OB every week because once that happens it means baby will be here pretty soon. I definately could skip the internals too, but unlucky me has them twice a week.

amyinlosangeles Congrats on almost having the painting done. Sorry about your poor little feet, if it makes you feel any better mine are looking about the same these days. I thought all the bedrest might help me avoid it but nope.

jesseybell Yay for being full term!!! (I can't wait to say that too)

mrstim Glad the childbirth class helped you feel better!

To do list:
Well, not much
Bags are packed and everything
I do need to decide on announcements though

Bringing on labor Well, I am not trying anything since I am having a scheduled c/s, but I wouldn't be upset if I went into labor at this point (so tired of this stinking bedrest!).

Labor Buddy I wouldn't mind doing this if anyone still needs a buddy! (I know I'm a little late :o )

[jesseybell]

amyinlosangeles- I am definitely going to ask the doctor on Wednesday about what I can take to help me sleep. This is just ridiculous. I completely understand our birthing class teacher talking about someone spending the last month of her pregnancy sleeping in a bean bag chair. If I have anything to drink within 2 hours of going to bed I feel sick - it isn't heartburn or acid reflux persay, I just feel like my stomach is in the back of my throat. And then the hips....I feel like an 80 year old man when I get out of bed!

But no more complaining! I am going to try to enjoy the rest of this pregnancy, whether it is 1 day or 5 weeks. We took some more belly shots last night - I just need to upload them. Some are funny because DH lay on the ground and took a picture up, so you just see my huge belly then my eyes peering over the top.

It was cute - my parents stopped by yesterday (which they never do) so my dad could see me in case it was the last time he saw me before the baby arrives.

[jennylou]

labor buddies - My sister will post in her lj. We have mutual friends, so I'm sure one of them will post here.

anxiety - ha! People keep asking if I'm excited. Nervous is more like it.

issaac'smommy - sorry about the continued bedrest!

K&H'sMommy - SIDS was the official diagnosis for what happened with Andrew. So, yes, this little one will go on a monitor immediately. I know that some say the monitors don't really work at preventing something, but I know it will let DH and I actually sleep. Congrats on setting your last day of work! Love that brown and pink diaper bag.

Joelle - Sounds like you're keeping busy. :)

Amy - how are your poor feet doing today? As for Amber's designs, I look at them every few weeks and still can't pick a favorite...I think I end up ruling out some and then adding new faves!

jesseybell - congrats on hitting full term! Being 36 weeks now I know it can happen any time - though I expect to go to 40 weeks, myself.

babylove - sorry about the fingers swelling.

As for me, I'm 36w1d. Since I found out the baby is breech, I've been doing all sort of things to get her to turn. Crawling (there's a special technique), watching my posture, exercise ball, hips elevated. I'd like to try the handstands in the pool technique - must find me a pool to do this. I have weekly BPP now, so I'll know on Friday whether she has turned or not.

[ajlanden]

jenny-TURN, little girl, TURN!!!!

jessey-I am so sorry about your sleep. I know how terrible it is! BUT the good news is that your a full term!! CONGRATS!!!! I am so excited for you!

isaacsmommy-Sorry about the GBS+ and the swelling. Hang in there!

K&H's mommy-2 under 2 is scary me too. Hopefully it will be easier than we think it is going to be! In anycase, we can support each other!

Joelle-Hey there! I hope you are enjoying your day! I had Dani on Friday and Sunday by myself. Holy cow, it is hard, isn't it?

Tracee-My fingers and the same way. They don't look swollen, but my rings would bet to differ!

amyinlosangeles-Yay for an almost complete nursery. I hope you aren't on your feet too much! PUt them up!

First off I wanted to say a little more about birth announcements. If ANYONE is still looking, I wanted to give a big plug for It's Truly Yours (http://www.itstrulyyours.com/)(I know Bree said she is using them). I haven’t gotten so far as to even think about this yet, but I know they do great work and Tara is a nice nice person! I will be using them if I can get off my butt and get it done.

Labor Buddies-I hope I didn’t forget anyone, so this is what I have so far. I have tried to split us up so we have a week or two in between EDD. Not that this is fool proof, but hopefully we won’t have two buddies giving birth at the exact same time. Please PM your “buddy” and exchange info. I don’t think it matters if you do a phone call or have them on an email list.
Abby’smom---Duke’s Fly Girl
Camdynlyn---Chimichanga
Isaacsmommy—JenniferH
Babylove--ajlanden

[Chimichanga]

I'm not even going to attempt SOs - everyone's too chatty :D

this weekend was super busy! I went on Saturday and bought the remaining things from our registry: bedding, nursery decoration stuff, the mattress, changing pads, PnP, second base for the car - you name it! I had the SUV stuffed to the gills! It was a good day, but an exhausting day. DH unloaded everything for me and took it all up to the nursery. Just waiting on the furniture now. One huge check mark on my to do list.

Sunday we had a surprise shower thrown by DH's co-workers. it was so nice! It was outside and it was SO warm though. I was sweating like crazy, but then again so was everyone else. I was actually pretty comfortable.

Sleep I'm not doing too bad. I mean, I get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom, but I have been able to sleep - and hard too! (knocking on wood). I'm so counting my blessings for this right now.

People at work are really starting to ask me when i'm due now. I must look like a house or something. But I know I'm waddling like crazy now and just moving so much slower than I used to (I used to zoom around work). It's nice to have people concerned about me. But I'm not really used to all of the attention.

[jesseybell]

I am getting so sick of work people (people at the company that I don't actually work with) asking me when my last day is going to be....and my actual co-workers being in complete denial that I could be gone tomorrow and keep giving me new work (which I have finally told them that perhaps they should learn how to do the work while I am still here so they can ask questions, instead of having me do it and them having to learn under fire after I am gone - my manager seemed a little pissy about that but that is because he doesn't know how to know how to do anything except be a micromanager...oops - I am digressing!)

But if I had my way, I'd go into labor next Sunday night...I have some stuff I want to do this weekend and a bunch of work to do this week, but then I think physically and mentally I will really be ready for this pregnancy to be done and for me to actually be a mom.

[Camdynlyn]

I'm back in town from the beach. It was a spur of the moment trip to see my best friend. We had a nice time but I didn't sleep well last night so I'm pooped.

I did find a replacement set of rings for my swollen fingers. They don't look swollen but my rings got painful yesterday so I gave in!

Here's me yesterday at 31w6d (32w2d according to docs):
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b320/Camdynlyn/SummersVisit002_edited.jpg

[JenniferH]

I have been very busy lately. Daycare took vacation since Friday. DH went to basketball camp (he's a coach) since Sunday and won't be home until Friday. Plus my mom and dad are on vacation. I have been slammed with DS. He is insane since I have been home 24/7 (not his normal routine). We also picked last week to switch him to his big boy bed. At night, we have to lay with him until he falls asleep and naps....yeah right! I think next week we may resort to taking all the toys out of his room and letting him work through the bed.

DukesFlyGirl ~ No idea on the bed transition. Not going well for us.

Camdenlyn ~ You look great! So does the beach!

Jesseybell ~ I too am sick of the work comments. I worked the day I went into labor with DS. People look at me like I am nuts, but I know if I don't work I would lay around all day and eat Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream!

Chimi ~ Sounds like you have been busy. I still have made no progress on our nursery or bought any of the few additional items we need. I am really starting to stress out about it!

AJLanden ~ Thanks for setting up the labor buddies!

Jennylou ~ DS is breech too. So, I have been doing those crazy exercises too. Not so much because of delivery (having c/s) but to avoid those nasty kicks.

Sorry if I missed anyone. Trying to get through fast and get back to work.



Birth Announcements ~ Picked up some at Target that you put a picture on and print out the stats. I have been slowly addressing envelopes to cut down on the work after DS arrives.

[ajlanden]

JenniferH-Best of luck with the big boy bed. We are going to wait awhile yet, but I am dreading it!

Summer-I commented over on LJ, but you seriously look great!

Jessey-Sending you next Sunday night labor vibes! :) You co workers better have a reality check! You are so close!

Chimichanga-Sound like you got a lot done this weekend! Yay!

Sleeping-Lots of peeing. I also have been waking at 3:00 and not being able to get back to sleep. I went to lay down on my lunch break and dozed off. Unfortunately, the reflux is back hardcore. I woke up coughing on yucky stomach stuff. Fun stuff! I wonder if I am getting immune to my medicine?

[babylove]

Whoa! Lots going on here today!

So sorry that I forgot to welcome craftgenius! Welcome! Are you having a boy, girl or surprise?? We have lots of girls around here!!

Joelle ~ By the end of the week you will have so much to cross off your to-do list!

Sara ~ Oy! Sorry to hear that your DS is having a rough time adjusting to the move. Love both of those diaperbags...is the second one by Caden Lane? My friend has a black and blue one like that. Will definitely take pics of the nursery once it's completed!

Jenn ~ Sorry about the GBS+...I have my test on Friday and I bet I will be + too...just 'cause that stuff always happens to me. :rolleyes: I just noticed that your DH spells his name the same way that my BIL does, which is unusual!

Jessie ~ can't wait to see those pics! LOL! How cute about your parents!

Jenny ~ I hope the baby turns!

Ashley ~ Thanks for coordinating the labor buddies! I'm glad youre my buddy :D

Jen ~ People at work don't leave me alone either...every day they say "you're still here?" Um...yes. For at least 5 more weeks. :rolleyes: And if they keep saying that, it's going to be a looooong 5 weeks!

Summer ~ What a cute picture of you (and Bean!)

Jennifer ~ Good luck w/ DS and the big boy bed!

***

Sleeping ~ I'm ok in this department. Of course, I get up to pee 4-5 times each night but I fall right back to sleep usually. It's just tough switching positions b/c nothing is truly comfortable and I'm always hot. I'm going to freeze poor DH right out of the room!

[Camdynlyn]

Well, I've finished my pediatrician questionaire. I have a meeting tomorrow with one that was recommended to me (it's a group session so about 8 other couples). I tried to compile a list of questions I felt strongly about and feel the others will probably be answered too.

I've posted it in LJ so those of you that have asked to be friended were. If you want to be friended, please let me know.

[Chimichanga]

My NST and doctor appt went well today. I did get a bit of a reprimand for having the blizzards. I now have to up my insulin - again. But, it's only for another five weeks... We'll be making the determination if we have to have a c-section within the next two weeks or so.

Here are some of our pictures from this weekend:
http://images1.snapfish.com/34757%3B536%7Ffp345%3Enu%3D3233%3E839%3E774%3E2324 83986533%3Bot1lsi
A family photo
http://images1.snapfish.com/34757%3B536%7Ffp343%3Enu%3D3233%3E839%3E774%3E2324 839865362ot1lsi
with my ugly stretch marks :(

[K&H's mommy]

babylove good eye! Yep it's Caden Lane. I LOVE THEIR STUFF! I really wanted the Ella bedding that they offer, but it wouldn't work with our crib. Gorgeous stuff!

jennylou - I would sleep better too. We have the Angelcare monitor and I loved that thing with DS. Whenever I hear people griping about how expensive it is I want to explode! It's worth it in my opinion, even if it was 10x the price!


I have been a bad registry girl today...just looking at the stuff that was purchased this weekend. :p bad bad!

[babylove]

Were the heck is everyone? We go from chatty to MIA so quickly! :p

Ugh...I am so crampy and uncomfortable today. I'm actually debating whether it's bad enough to call the dr....probably not, considering I have an appt on Friday. I just ate a bag of peanut M&Ms, a caffeine free Diet Coke AND a little hunk of fudge....junk food cravings much? I'm going to gain 5 lbs just today! :eek:

***

Summer ~ I read an article in the newspaper today that reminded me of another thing you might want to ask your pediatrician--which genetic screenings does your state do at birth. Apparently, there are 29 possible screenings and very few states screen for even half of those tests. I happen to be lucky that MD screens for all 29 but that's a rarity. If your state doesn't check automatically, you might want to find out from your insurance company whether those additional tests would be covered.

Jen ~ Adorable pics! Pretty soon you will be able to eat all the Blizzards you want...but the irony is that you probably won't want any! LOL!

Sara ~ Oh yes, I know my diaper bags :D I have been strongly considering that Angel Care monitor but people keep telling me that I'm crazy b/c it might go off (false alarm) and make me crazy. Do you have false alarms often?? Oh and I registry stalk too ;)

[babylove]

More States Test Newborns for Disorders
By LAURAN NEERGAARD
AP Medical Writer
Originally published July 10, 2006, 11:45 PM EDT
WASHINGTON // States have nearly doubled the number of newborns being tested for a host of rare but devastating genetic diseases -- yet where you live still determines just how protected your baby will be, the March of Dimes reports.

For almost two years, specialists have urged that every U.S. newborn be checked for 29 disorders, to detect the few thousand who will need early treatment to avoid serious, even life-threatening, problems.

The geographic disparity is gradually easing: As of June 1, a total of 31 states required testing for more than 20 of those disorders, says the new analysis. Five states -- Iowa, Maryland, Mississippi, New Jersey and Virginia -- as well as Washington, D.C., required testing every newborn for the entire list of 29 conditions.

That's up from 23 states the previous year, and covered 64 percent of the nation's babies, nearly double the number tested in 2005.

Eight states -- Arkansas, Kansas, Montana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas and West Virginia -- still were testing for fewer than 10 of those 29 conditions, the analysis found. Remaining states fell in the middle, although at least one, Wyoming, was scheduled to begin more comprehensive testing this month.

The March of Dimes report may confuse some consumers because it counts only the 29 conditions deemed most important for screening, and many states tout that they test for more -- meaning they include "secondary" disorders not on the core list adopted by the March of Dimes and the American College of Medical Genetics.

Well over 1 million babies born this year will fall short of good protection, concluded the child advocacy group, which has urged the federal government to intervene and set a nationwide standard for newborn screening.

"There is a sense of urgency to this," said March of Dimes president Dr. Jennifer Howse. "Delay equals death or a medical catastrophe."

Federal health officials are reviewing the status of newborn screening and are expected to report recommendations to Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt within a few months, said spokesman Bill Hall.

Today, every U.S. newborn is tested for a few rare diseases: hypothyroidism and the metabolic disease phenylketonuria, or PKU, that can cause retardation if not treated quickly; the blood disease sickle cell anemia; and galactosemia, a life-threatening dietary disorder.

Most also are checked for hearing loss, because early intervention is key to preventing serious problems with speech and language development.

But new technology can analyze a single drop of blood for dozens of other serious and occasionally life-threatening genetic diseases. Just because a test exists doesn't mean everyone needs it. So at the federal government's request, the geneticists' group in 2004 studied testing accuracy and the benefit of early diagnosis -- and recommended that routine newborn screening check for hearing loss plus 28 rare but serious diseases that could be successfully treated if parents knew about it in time.

The report seems to have spurred some state action even before the government decides whether to adopt it as a national standard, suggests the new March of Dimes analysis, to be released Tuesday.

"It's very frustrating that still ... where you're born literally can mean whether your child will live or die," said Pamela Sweeney of Brookfield, Conn., whose son, Jonathan, almost died of one of the illnesses, the metabolic disorder known as LCHAD, when he was 1 1/2.

These otherwise healthy babies lack enzymes that change stored fat into energy. That means going more than a few hours without food, like when Jonathan caught a common stomach virus, can be fatal unless they're given a quick glucose injection.

Jonathan's uncle, a state senator, introduced legislation to mandate more screening after the boy's near-miss in 2000; Connecticut now tests for 28 of the core disorders.

Howse advised expectant parents to check her group's Web site, http://www.modimes.org, to see if their state tests for at least the 29 core conditions. If not, she urged parents to talk with their doctors about getting test kits from private screening laboratories to bring to the hospital on delivery day. That supplemental testing costs $25 to $100, depending on the lab, and often is covered by insurance.

[ajlanden]

It is quiet in here today!

Tracee-Your food this morning has me salivating! I need some CHOCOLATE NOW! I wanted to tell you how much we love our AngelCare Monitor. We did have a couple of false alarms where she had moved off the sensor, but those couple of times were well worth the sleep I was able to get because of it. That is probably the most valuable thing I bought last time.

K&H's mommy-Hope you got some good news from all the registry stalking!

Chimichanga-Those are cute pictures! You look great! I love the one with your doggie in it!

Summer-Great list of questions in your LJ! I hope it all goes well today. I am not help as we only have 1 office of pedi's in town.

[K&H's mommy]

babylove - Same as AJ...a couple of false alarms when he would move to the bottom of the bed, but that's it. It amazes me how sensitive that thing was. I would rather have the false alarm and be initially scared...then what could possibly happen.

**To everyone, I highly recommend taking a basic infant CPR class!!! Your hospital probably offers one...

AJ- I did! :) People were shopping for me this weekend!

[LTJC]

I'm hanging out here at 2 cm at 34 weeks...

Great pictures Camdynlyn and Chimichanga I have run from the camera during my two pregnancies, but DH always seems to get a piece of me in the background...and not a very flattering shot at that.

babylove - The faculty dining room at work closes down at 2:00, so at least once a week, I am raiding the vending machines for my peanut m&m's:) My weight gain has been minimal this pregnancy as opposed to last time, so unfortunately, I find myself "allowing" for some bad treats...like the Taco Bell salad I just picked up for lunch:(

We've had amazing success with the transition to the big boy bed. In fact, DS refuses to go near the crib because "it's for babies". The only hurdle right now is DS needs us to lie down with him until he falls asleep which is no more than 10 minutes at most, but I'd love to be able to leave the room while he is awake. We put the gate up at his doorway and wake up every morning with his adorable face standing there patiently. I'm fully prepared for some backsliding, though, when the baby makes his/her appearance.

Sleeping - I'm up once a night which is not bad, but I'm so hot! We have central air and still I can't sleep with any covers.

RO's - Has anyone washed their infant car seat cover in the machine?

[bluhimmy]

Sorry, no individual s/o... I am so behind and having trouble keeping up you ladies. Plus, I don't think DS will allow me enough time to do s/o.

LTJC - I totally forgot about this. Good thing you reminded me. I have no idea how to wash the seat cover. I need to figure out how to take it off first. My guess is that it should be safe to wash in a mesh bag/pillow case in gentle cycle & cool water.

Birth Announcements - I'm going to design my own like I did with DS. I haven't started it yet, but I think it's probably a good idea that I do.

Diaper Bag - I really need to stay away from this one. I aquired 7 diaper bags with DS; I don't think I can justify another this time around. But then again, I will need a bag for 2. Just not sure which one.

To Do's - It's so sad that I'm a R/O and have done almost next to nothing to prepare for this baby. I need to start a list, and hopefully it will be a very small list.

Sleeping - Sucks major big time. Between the aches and pains and getting up 2-3 times a night, I haven't problems getting a good sleep. Needless to say, I'm a walking zombie throughout the day. And having a upset toddler doesn't help my mood either.

Q for R/O - Are any of you taking any type of birth preparation/baby classes this time around? DH & I decided we didn't need to, but I'm wonder if we should have done a refresher or something.

[LTJC]

bluhimmy - I'm going to take a look at the cover this evening and wash it on gentle. Funny you should mention the baby classes. We took a one day prep class last time and while some of the information was useful, the best part of the day was the bonding that DH and I did, both in a serious and funny way. We are not taking a repeat class, but I did recently attend a talk by DS's pediatrician which contained information about introducing a baby into the family and helping DS deal with the transition. THAT was helpful, let me tell you! I'll probably take an infant CPR refresher.

[cocoa_femme]

Another interesting article...

Circumcision may stop millions of HIV deaths
Significantly lower infection rate among circumcised men, WHO report finds
Updated: 8:17 a.m. ET July 11, 2006

WASHINGTON - Circumcising men routinely across Africa could prevent millions of deaths from AIDS, World Health Organization researchers and colleagues reported Monday.

They analyzed data from trials that showed men who had been circumcised had a significantly lower risk of infection with the AIDS virus, and calculated that if all men were circumcised over the next 10 years, some two million new infections and around 300,000 deaths could be avoided.

Researchers believe circumcision helps cut infection risk because the foreskin is covered in cells the virus seems able to easily infect. The virus may also survive better in a warm, wet environment like that found beneath a foreskin.

So if men were circumcised, fewer would become infected and thus could not infect their female partners.

The human immunodeficiency virus or HIV, which causes AIDS, now infects close to 40 million people and has killed another 25 million. It mostly affects sub-Saharan Africa and the main mode of transmission is sex between a man and a woman.

Several studies have suggested that men who are circumcised have a lower rate of HIV infection. This has been especially noticeable in some parts of Africa, where some groups are routinely circumcised while neighboring groups are not.

Last year, Dr. Bertran Auvert of the French National Research Agency INSERM and colleagues at WHO found that circumcised men in South Africa were 65 percent less likely to become infected with the deadly and incurable virus.

His team then did an analysis to see what would happen if all African men were circumcised.

“In West Africa, male circumcision is common and the prevalence of HIV is low, while in southern Africa the reverse is true,” they wrote in the current report, published in the Public Library of Science Medicine.

“This analysis shows that male circumcision could avert nearly six million new infections and save three million lives in sub-Saharan Africa over the next twenty years,” they wrote.

Overall, they project that universal male circumcision would reduce the rate of infections by about 37 percent.

“Male circumcision alone cannot bring the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Africa under control. Even circumcised men can become infected, though their risk of doing so is much lower,” the journal cautioned in a commentary.

URL: http://msnbc.msn.com/id/13812938/?GT1=8307

[amyinlosangeles]

Man, it really is hard to keep up with this thread. I've got 8 bazillion things to do today but I wanted to post pics of the nursery we finally finished painting yesterday. What a relief!!

painting in progress (my mom & DH)
http://hedlab.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/dsc04314_1.jpg

one side of the room
http://hedlab.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/dsc04328.jpg

other side of the room
http://hedlab.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/dsc04330.jpg

Off to go assemble the crib. Wish me luck!

[Camdynlyn]

Beautiful, AmyLA! :D LOVE That color!

**
Okay, my last shower date is in place. This is how it's panning out... Shower 1 (my family): July 30, Shower 2 (Hubby's family): August 4, Shower 3 (my friends): August 5th. I guess I should number them 3, 4 and 5 since I had my first shower at work before school let out and my kids/parents threw me one as well. :) I feel loved.

Glad that's done. I was tired of worrying about it!

[mrstim]

Wow - so much action!

Summer - glad all the shower drama has been worked out! It's a wonderful feeling after the showers are done!!

Amy - beautiful color!! Remind me what bedding you're using again?? I love all the windows and doorways!

LTJC - glad you're progressing!! Glad DS is making the transition well!

Ashley - I want chocolate now too!

Tracee - I have that SAME uncomfy soreness! I felt like I'd been run over by a truck this morning! Maybe it means something??? I don't go back to the doc until NEXT friday - can't wait to hear what your doc says!

Jen - great pics! Love the one of Zep with you guys!

That's as far back as I can go........sorry if I left you out!


Sleeping - Sleeping like a log in between potty breaks! I feel SO sleepy when I wake up though - it takes a while to wake up and get going!

eta: 33w3d
eta: 34w3d - I'm losing my mind!!!!

[ajlanden]

Summer-Yay for figuring out shower days!

mrstim-Isn't your EDD before mine? Maybe I am losing my mind. I am 34 weeks tomorrow?

amyinlosangeles-Beautiful! I can't wait to see the finished look!

RO Questions! Great ones, ladies!
Car Seat-I just took it off and washed it on gentle this weekend and let in air dry. I have yet to put it back on though, so I hope it didn't shrink. Actually my worst fear is that I will have no idea how to put it back on. I was really careful to undo the straps one at a time and them redo them, so I wouldn't mess them up when I took it off. Hopefully I can to the same this time.

Classes-We didn't do any. I wasn't too impressed with the Childbirth Class the first time around. I did think about a sibling class to take with DD. I decided against it since she is so little. I hope I don't regret it!

[mrstim]

Ashley - yup, I was off by a whole week!!! I guess I'm in denial. :D I had to look my ticker up to figure out where I was!!! :rolleyes:

[ajlanden]

LOL! Man, I want to add weeks and you are taking them away. Please, give them to me!!! (Jumping up and down!)

Ashley - yup, I was off by a whole week!!! I guess I'm in denial. :D I had to look my ticker up to figure out where I was!!! :rolleyes:

[Chimichanga]

I just put my "countdown" on my work calendar... yikes! :eek: Only 36 more days. It really puts it in perspective!

Had a crappy day at work today. Just crappy. I'm going to the salon tonight for a pedi and hair cut and DH told me I could get whatever service I wanted if they could fit it in. :) He's so good to me.

[Sabriel]

amyinlosangeles Yay for getting the nursery painted! It looks great!

LTJC Glad DS is doing so well in his big boy bed!

Sleeping I am sleeping pretty well again. I'm very thankful for that!

Showers I have 2 scheduled - July 23rd and 29th. Yay!

I saw one of the couples from my Bradley class today. They had their baby last Friday! She was so cute and sweet. It made things seem so much more real!

[isaacsmommy]

You ladies sure have been chatty today!

Sabriel- That is good your still sleeping well. Two showers- that will be fun!

Chimichanga- Sorry about the crappy day at work, but I am soooo jealous that you going to get pampered tonight. I resorted to painting my own toenails last week- my family couldn't believe I managed to reach :p .

Ajlanden- Don't jump up and down too much, you make shake that baby out! :p

Mrstim- Don't feel bad I can't remember squat these days!

Camdynlyn I'm glad all your shower dates are set! You are going to be one busy girl.

Amyinlosangeles- The nursery looks great! I love the color, it is close to what is in Isaac's room.

cocoa_femme- Interesting article. I may have to read more about that
study.

RO's Question- Yeah I already washed my infant seat cover and installed the bases in our cars (well DH did). We did this a while ago since I went on bedrest we figured we better get ready just in case.

We didn't do any prep this time (c/s), actually I skipped my class last time (I was on bedrest :rolleyes: ). I am CPR certified though, have to be for work

Oh my gosh my ticker says only 24 days! I set it by my original c/s date, not my due date. Oh and really I think it will be sooner since the doc said a couple weeks ago we would probably move the c/s date up a bit :D . I am sooooooooo ready to have this baby.

[mrstim]

I am sooooooooo ready to have this baby.

ME TOO!!!!! Strangely enough - I told DH I was kinda weirded out today - so far I've had a strange soreness/crampiness, plus diarrhea, plus a good amount of pelvic pressure. :rolleyes: I know my cervix last week was thick and closed, so I'm not thinking this means anything, but still - I'm READY!!! I've not had any contrax whatsoever - like not even BH ones today!

Well, with the exception of about 5 things on my list - I'm determined to have it all done before I go to bed tonight, JUST in case!

Anyone know the risks of having this baby 5 weeks early?? EVERYONE is telling me "you have to go to 40, you have to go to 40" but I'm thinking of starting the eviction papers process at 37 weeks! What are ya'lls thoughts?

[K&H's mommy]

Anyone know the risks of having this baby 5 weeks early??
I can probably help with that question! :) A baby that's born at 5 weeks is not considered 'high risk' meaning that the (me) NICU nurse/Pediatrician does not have to be at the delivery. BUT....we aren't always completely positive of our due dates no matter how accurate everything has been. I have seen 3 pound babies who were supposedly 35 weeks - obviously they weren't.

*Sometimes* babies born at 35 weeks have eating issues. They can't coordinate their suck and swallow pattern very well. Meaning they will suck, suck, suck...oh ya...what else am I supposed to do here...oh ya...BREATHE. Some 35-weekers can handle it well, some can't. Also, the earlier a baby is born, the more likely they will be jaundice and have to stay under some phototherapy lights. My DD was 42 weeks - no jaundice. My DS was 37 4/7 (induced for pregnancy hypertension) and had to be in the NICU briefly. Some 35-weekers also have low sugar problems.

Keep them in until 37 weeks ladies, that is when they are considered full-term. I know we all want to see our babies, but I know we don't want to see our babies being taken care of by someone like me :p

[mrstim]

Thanks for shedding some light, K&H!! In my heart I KNOW it's best to keep 'em baking, but this waddling is getting to me! I'll take a chill pill and relax!! (or at least try to!)

[Camdynlyn]

Once I hit 37 weeks, you won't be able to stop me from walking, eating spicey foods and jumping Hubby's bones! ;) Whether it works or not, at least I tried! :p

[jesseybell]

I am not ready to start anything drastic to bring on labor, but maybe in a week I will. Though I may have a small heart-attack tomorrow when my ticker says 19 days! I am a little anxious for my appointment tomorrow. I am pretty sure if he does an internal then he'll find that I am tight as a button and I am not sure if I want to hear that.

Edited to post a couple of pictures:
37 weeks
http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j215/jesseybell/100_1867.jpg

DH getting creative with the belly pics!
http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j215/jesseybell/100_1876.jpg

[K&H's mommy]

Once I hit 37 weeks, you won't be able to stop me from walking, eating spicey foods and jumping Hubby's bones! Whether it works or not, at least I tried!

LOL!!!! It didn't stop me either!!! Although I did stairmaster for hours with DD and NOTHING worked with her. I joked that I was going to out in the park, get a branch of a tree and break my own water with it if I went over 40 weeks with DS...LOL!

[babylove]

LOL! You ladies are so funny!!

I joked that I was going to out in the park, get a branch of a tree and break my own water with it if I went over 40 weeks with DS...LOL!

This is how I feel right now and I'm only 34w4d!

In all honestly, getting this baby out sooner rather than later is the ONLY thing that would make me jump DH's bones before my 6w PP visit! LOL!

***

Had a rough evening...those ice-pic-in-the-cervix pains have gotten progressively worse lately and tonight I had a series of pains that were so bad I nearly dropped to the floor at the restaurant where we were celebrating DH's b-day! :eek: That combined with the vicious cramps I've been experiencing over the past few days prompted me to call my OB. Both OBs in my practice are out of town....so someone covering the practice called me back. She was very nice, not concerned at all and said that the pain I was feeling is the baby dropping down and putting pressure on my cervix. She also said the cramping is mild contractions. No threat of early labor at this point, so that made me feel better. But man, oh man, I thought for sure there was a trip to L&D tonight--on DH's b-day no less!!

[Chimichanga]

Once I hit 37 weeks - yeah, I think I'll be doing everything in my power to get this little girl out early (unless we schedule a c/s).

The pedi was GREAT!! Although, my Fred Flintstone feet made me really self-concious. The girl recommended a different, more involved pedi to take care of my dry feet. My feet have been just horrible this whole pregnancy. So, I decided to schedule another pedi and mani on the 29th. If I have to cancel it - so be it, but at least it gives me something to look forward to. :)

[isaacsmommy]

Hehe you girls are cracking me up!

K&H's mommy- My Dh asked if someone could break their own water. I told him I'm sure if they were determined enough, but also added that it would most likely be a bad idea (just so he wouldn't get any ideas). He is obsessed with my water breaking this week for some reason, every pain I get or face I make he'll ask if my water broke. When I tell him no he'll then ask if I'm sure :rolleyes: .

jesseybell Tight as a button, ROFL! I told my doc I'm like fort knox, nothing is gonna get out. As of my last appt I was 50% effaced but no dialation.

I haven't done anything to bring on labor however I did eat a bunch of pineapple the other day just because it is so yummy.

[Camdynlyn]

When do most people get their first internal? I figured it wouldn't be until 37 or so weeks.

I'm 32w2d for what it's worth. I feel like I'm WAY behind everyone but REALLY hoping for an August baby! :)

[jesseybell]

I was told last week at my 36w appt that I may or may not have an internal at my appointment tomorrow. But if not at 37w, then definitely at 38w.

[UTChick]

When do most people get their first internal? I figured it wouldn't be until 37 or so weeks.
I will have mine at my next appt. I will be exactly 35 weeks then. I don't know if that is the norm since I seem to have had the major milestone appts. a little earlier than most.


I'm with you all...I am getting to the point where I am kind of tired of being pg. That worries me since I am only 33w1d. How am I going to feel a month from now?!?! Not that I want this baby to come now - not at all. I just wonder exactly how much bigger I could possibly get. The thought is frightening!

[jennylou]

Last week, I was so feeling done. And, then I had that BPP and found out baby girl is breech. Needless to say, now I want her to stay in there and flip head down! So, I'm anxious for my next appointment on Friday to see if she's flipped. I won't start walking, etc until she is. :p

RO childbirth class - I didn't feel like we needed to take another one - particularly the one offered by our hospital. We were just there last April, so it's not like it's been too long. I did want to take an infant cpr class, but I think they took the summer off - every time I check, they don't have that class available. I should check again.

angel care monitor - I'd tell everyone new parent to get one of these (and repeat mommas too). Yeah, you might have a false alarm or two (or five, or however many), but trust me, you'd much, much, much rather have a false alarm than the alternative. Everyone thinks it won't happen to them and that it only happens to other people, but someone has to be the statistic. I'm not trying to scare you ladies, I'm just a bit passionate about certain things now.

internals - as of 35w4d I hadn't had an internal - I sort of expected to have one and my GBS test, but they didn't do it. I suspect that will be this week.

installing carseats - nope, not done here yet. I will probably install the base when I hit 37 weeks. But, I'm still not sure if I will or not. I may make take the time to do it as we go to the hospital. Just another of those weird things for me.

sleeping - some nights I surprise myself and sleep from like midnight until 6 am. Other nights, I'm up and down all night long.

isaac'smommy - yummy, pineapple!

jessey - looking great!

cherish - sorry about all the pains.

Amy - Looks like you've got a great house. :)

Not much going on here. I've felt sore all day long. My back is starting to hurt me more and I just feel so stretched (in the belly). It's tight all the time now.

[PLNUBRIDE]

I love seeing everyones pictures and knowing I am not the only one who is beginning to really feel the effects of being pregnant!!!

I have to say that I am comforted to read about everyone's internals. I have yet to have one at my normal appts and it has begun to worry me. I only had one internal at 6 wks and I have had two internals to check for preterm labor (on at L&D and one at my U/S that was scheduled when I was measuring small). I am glad to see that the lack of internals seem to be the norm....if that makes sense.

I am also dropping off a few pics....please feel free to post on first page if you want

http://images1.snapfish.com/34758%3B745%7Ffp343%3Enu%3D3239%3E334%3E%3B59%3EWS NRCG%3D3233935773%3C%3B6nu0mrj
35 wks 3 days....7/11/06

http://images1.snapfish.com/34758%3B745%7Ffp345%3Enu%3D3233%3E844%3E6%3A8%3E23 24844799556ot1lsi
35 wks 3 days...7/11/06

[mrstim]

34w4d

My doctor actually begins internals at 32 weeks! So yes, I've had two already. Not sure why - but that's his policy. He sees me at 32, 34, 36,37, 38, 39 & 40 weeks.

Installing Carseat - yup, it's done. We're taking it by the fire station this weekend though to make sure it's done right! We're waiting on the winnie the pooh sunshades though - thought that was a little much at this point. ;)

[cocoa_femme]

:eek: :eek: OMG, I'm 37 weeks! :eek: :eek:

Sorry I haven't been around much lately. I'm trying to finish up projects at work, so when I finally go...my co-workers won't be left in a lurch.

I don't really have time for SOs, but I just wanted to say I've been thinking of you all. We made it! We're almost at the end (or the beginning)!

Bree

[jesseybell]

My doctor's appointment went well. This male doctor was SO much better than last week, so we changed our appointment in 2 weeks to him (we're seeing a female we also like next Thursday).

My GBS is negative - yeah! BP/urine - great.

He does estimate I will probably have a big baby :( He thinks she could be 7.5 - 8 lbs already!! Damn me for drinking too much soda. I thought he was going to send me to the hospital for an u/s but he didn't - they'll order one in 2-3 weeks if I haven't delivered yet.

The only thing he would want me to take to help me sleep is Benedryl, but he said to try to do without.

He said the doctors in the practice don't typically do episiotomies unless necessary, though he did admit that there is no conclusive evidence that tearing over episiotomies is better.

[ajlanden]

jessey-I am glad you had a better doctor! That makes all the difference in the world! Congrats for being GBS -. Keep on plugging along!

Bree-Congrats on being full term!! Time flies! Good luck at getting some stuff done! You are right...it is only the begining!

Amy-Lucky you, so many internals! ha, ha, ha!! I hated them, but it is nice to know if anything is happening.

PLNUBRIDE-Cute belly! I love your tank!

jenny-Sending more fliping vibes to you and your little girl!

Bringing on labor-I think I will be very ready in three weeks. I did everything in the books to get DD out though and was eventually induced. So I don't have much faith in those natural techniques. (Not that I won't try again!)

It is hard for me to believe that some of the ladies in this thread will be holding their babies in the next couple weeks. Oh, I am so excited! This thread is about ready to really start hopping!

[babylove]

First trip to L&D last night...or should I say early this morning. Not fun at all. Details in my LJ...obviously, no baby (though DH was very excited at the prospect of having a baby the day after his b-day). Just me being a complete wimp and the drs not having a clue what's going on. :rolleyes:

[LTJC]

Anyone read this article?
http://news.yahoo.com/s/hsn/20060707/hl_hsn/sexinlatepregnancywontbringonlabor

[ajlanden]

tracee-Posted in your LJ....take care of yourself!

LTJC-What great news! Now I don't have to force myself for the sake of getting this baby out! YAY!

[isaacsmommy]

Had a dr appt today. It was eventful bp was up even higher, and the dr wasn't happy that my swelling has suddenly increased. So off to L+D I went, everything came back fine while at L+D, but the most exciting news:

Threadmistress can you change my c/s to July 17th, 2006 at 6:30

I can't feaking believe it :eek: ! I will have my baby next Monday. That is only 5 days.

[cocoa_femme]

I have an odd request...

I don't have internet at home, so I probably won't be online until I get back to work, 6 - 8 weeks after I deliver. For that purpose, I don't think I should have a "labor buddy". But, I would still like to let you guys know when I go into labor and when I have the baby. Is there anyone who would be willing to give me their email address or cell phone number, so I can text message the news?

[jennylou]

You can email me. :)

[July&August2006Mommies]

Updated up to here!

[cocoa_femme]

You can email me. :)
Thanks! Can you PM me your email address?

[ajlanden]

isaacsmommy-5 DAYS! Holy Crap! You might be first! I am excited for you! I hope everything goes well!

[jesseybell]

isaacsmommy- Oh my! Does sound like you are going to be first....I was just thinking about that this morning - that it is almost the middle of July and none of us have had their baby yet (and there have been very few trips to L&D)...even though I am "technically" July 31, I don't see myself being one of the first at all...I see myself going 41-42 weeks...God,can I do this for another month?! I don't think so!

[Camdynlyn]

Isaacsmommy: That's my anniverary... good date! :)

[PLNUBRIDE]

OH MY GOSH isaacsmommy!!!! How crazy is that!?!?! I think I would be in total shock if I got that kind of news at my next appt:) you must be so excited!

Jesseybell - You may not be the first....but I bet you will be the second:)

Should we start predicting Actual due dates for everyone?...just teasin

[Abby'sMom]

Wow, isaacsmommy, how exciting! :)

If one more person jokes that I'll go overdue after all of my preterm labor issues, I'll cry. That's all I have to say on the subject. :rolleyes:

[mrstim]

ACK - we're going to have our first baby in here!!!!!!! **Jumping UP&down UP&down!!!!!!***** YAY!

Ok, now can I go have a minor freak out - cause I knew when the first person posted about either being induced soon or in labor I would FREAK OUT! WOWZA!!!

Just for the record, btw - Purity has an ice cream that is O'Charley's caramel pie flavor. It's gross. That's all. YUCK!

While getting said ice cream, the clerk asked when I was due - I said 5 weeks, she said "hmm..looks like you'll go in 2-3 weeks."

So was that a compliment or what??? :rolleyes:

[ajlanden]

If one more person jokes that I'll go overdue after all of my preterm labor issues, I'll cry. That's all I have to say on the subject.

You can go third! :D :D :D

[bluhimmy]

isaacsmommy - OMG, I can't believe it; you're going to have a July baby! Looks like you're going to be joining the July Mommies thread. I'm so excited. :)

jesseybelle - I agree, I think you'll be second too. ;)

Abby'sMom - For what it's worth, I don't think you'll go overdue at all.

[Sabriel]

OMG isaacsmommy! I can't believe we're having our first baby soon! Wow! :D

[duke's flygirl]

Quick Post, I will get to SO's for all later, but

WOW on isaacsmommy having her c-section 17 July! WOW! Good Luck! I think I would be shocked if they told me that I was going to have my baby in FIVE days!

Also,

Here I am finally getting to post my Virtual Shower Gift from Isaacsmommy

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y206/dukes_flygirl/VirtualShowerGift2.jpg

I love it! My DH loved the doggie on the sleeper as did my DD!

We got her new furniture today, and she is currently asleep in her new room...wish us luck!

My appointment yesterday was good, not much change at all, so we are happy.

She is also really excited about my delivery, and my c-section is on her 2nd daugther's b-day!

I will get to SO's soon! Gotta go and upload more pictures for my mom!

Take Care!

[flygirl]

Hate to break it to y'all, but we have a first!!! MaryTX, who's been on hospital bedrest for the past 9 weeks (sans regular computer access, if you can believe it), had her little boy, Darren Graham, at 9:57am July 11! He was a gigantic 6lb, 11oz (for a 36-wk baby) and avoided NICU all toghether! Mom, Dad & Darren are doing fantastic, albeit exhausted. I hope to see her tomorrow & get some pics of the first Aug. babe!

[bluhimmy]

OMG!

Congratulations MaryTX!!!

And welcome Darren!!

[PLNUBRIDE]

Wow...congrats to MaryTX!!! I am glad to hear that Darren was born very healthy:)

It is ironic...I was just wondering how MaryTX was doing b/c I remember she went on bedrest!

Can't wait to see pics

[amyinlosangeles]

Wow, that's a surprise. I'm so glad he was healthy - congrats to MaryTX!!!!

[cosmic]

Congrats, MaryTX!!!! :D

[duke's flygirl]

CONGRATS MaryTX!

Welcome to the world Darren Graham!

I'm glad that he arrived healthy!

WOW our first August Baby! Holy cow, things are becoming more and more real!

[jennylou]

Congrats to MaryTX!

would the TMs like me to update the thread title to read something like:

August 2006 Mommies - Third Trimester, The babies are coming!

?????

[JenniferH]

Congrats MaryTX!

Isaacsmommy - 5 days! OMG!

[mrstim]

Congrats Mary and Welcome Darren!!!! :D

WOW - the ride has begun!!!!

[ajlanden]

Yay our first healthy "August" baby!! Big congrats to Mary!! What great news! I am sure it makes all the bed rest worth it!

I know we have done this before, but I can't remember who said what...

QOTD
Are you planning on SAH or WOH? If working how much leave are you taking?

[jesseybell]

Congrats to MaryTX and baby Darren!!! Okay, this makes it a lot more real!!!

jennylou - I think it is time to change the thread title! I can't think of anything creative like the other months have (being born in August myself, August is always the one month where there is nothing...no holidays, nothing but hot summer (and all our cute babies to come!)

My little one is definitely running out of room. I try not to freak out about the decreased fetal movement - if I poke her she moves and makes little kicks every once in a while- enough movement to not call the doctor, but it is hard to get used to.

Today we are bringing in my car for a "pre-baby safety check/maintenance" (plus the a/c died so we've been just driving DHs car for 3 weeks which is very uncomfortable) and tomorrow I get my hair highlighted - need to look pretty for the pictures :)

[isaacsmommy]

Wow! Congrats MaryTX and welcome baby Darren!:)
I am glad mommy and baby are doing well!

Thanks ladies for all the well wishes. I am certianly freaked out. I feel like we have everything ready (well the nessecities at least) and now we just have to finalize last minute stuff. The one thing I am nervous about is working out who will watch Isaac, I have had several volunteers- just have to make sure that they can do it now that we know the date.

I am so nervous how he will react and if he will be upset, especially while I'm in the hospital. I know he will be with my family getting spoiled and having fun, but I'm still worried.

QOTD- I know I will be going to work, but at this point we aren't really sure how long I will take before going back. Also, when I do go back it most likely will be part time (2 days since nurses work 12hr shifts) and even if it is full time (3 days) we will work it out so that I work weekends so the kids won't have to be in daycare/babysat very much.

[Camdynlyn]

WOW! Congrats! That makes it seem more real than ever! :eek: He was a big boy!!

QOTD: Still not sure about what my job plans are! They change daily!!

**
Felt miserable last night. Came home and did some sitting on my ball to help relieve tension in my back and then decided to run a bath (I'm not a bath person at all). Once my body hit the warm water, it automatically felt better but still got some small areas that need to fix themselves. My next Chiro appointment is next Friday!! I make sure to stretch nightly so I'm hoping that helps, too!

[cocoa_femme]

OMG! Congratulations, MaryTX! I can't believe our first little one is here already!

And, isaacsmommy is having her c-section on Monday! I'm getting all nervous and excited now :D.

[Tuesdayschild]

Wow, congrats MaryTX! She is a trooper for making it on bed rest for that long...and now Darren is healthy! :D Woo hoo!

Well, add me to the bedrest club. :( I was just released yesterday from spending 2 nights & 2 days in the hospital to stop preterm labor. That means STRICT rest until baby gets here, hopefully later than sooner. We are now at 33 w 4d. That's only a week ahead of when my DS was born. We had to go into L & D Monday night because I started contracting on a regular basis. I got the steriod shots to hurry baby's lung development and other meds to stop my labor. Spent more than 24 hrs on magnesium, but had to wean off b/c my blood pressure was dropping too much. My poor arms are brusied from IV & blood draws of course, and the constant checking didn't leave much time for rest. The big difference this time is that our FFN test came back Negative for delievering in the next 2 weeks vs Positive when we walked in at 32 w w/DS. That meant being transferred to a NICU level II hospital and this means being AT HOME. It's going to make a world of difference in my toddler & DH's life.
We are in a competely different lifestyle now, and thankfully have my mom coming to stay with us. Here's a cute story for you: The first night our DS had to come home w/o me he was looking out the window for the moon and couldn't find it. He told DH "Moon come back when mommy come home."

[Abby'sMom]

Welcome Darren and congrats Mary!!

[Chimichanga]

Wow - Congrats to MaryTX!! And good luck to Isaacsmommy!! :D It's definitely becoming more real now!!!

I go in at 1 for my NST today. She's been kicking around like crazy because I've been stressed all day. First my system wouldn't work (working from home again today and able to connect to the work network) so I wasted almost 2 hours futzing with that. Then, when I finally got everything working I got a not good email about a meeting I need to have with the VP to talk about a mistake I made. And the company wonders why I want a different position when I return from maternity?!?!?

QOTD I would love to SAH, but it's not financially feasible. I will WOH four days a week and WAH one day a week. I think that's all my company will allow if I get the new position. I'm also probably going to look for a new job. I've just been so beat up recently by my current job ...

ETA: Maybe the thread name can be something like ~ "it's hot and we're popping out our babies" or something like that ;) I have an odd sense of humor.

[ajlanden]

Maybe the thread name can be something like ~ "it's hot and we're popping out our babies" or something like that ;) I have an odd sense of humor.

LOL!

[cocoa_femme]

i'm in the process of changing the title to &quo