August 2006 Mommies ~ Our Sizzling Summer Babies are arriving!

[cosmic]

I'm not fully caught up, but...

Congrats to isaacsmommy!!!! :D

and great bag, Amy... Sooooo chic!

[Sabriel]

babylove Glad you are feeling better. Yay for getting your stripes painted!

Camdynlyn Hope you had a great vacation!

K&H's mommy Cute belly shot! Yay for being alomst done with work!

duke's flygirl Congrats on being full term!

I bought and painted the name letters to hang in the nursery yesterday. They are cute, but I hope the pink isn't too dark. I am going to see if DH will hang them tonight. Then hopefully I will have pictures of our finished nursery!

[ajlanden]

K&H's mommy-Your belly is adorable! I went and looked at your boy/girl comparison in the belly shot thread. It is crazy to me how different both our bellys are!!!

Summer-Welcome back! I hope your appointment goes well! Update ASAP, especially if you get an internal!

Tracee-I am so glad you got some sleep. The world always is better with sleep! I can't wait to see the nursery!

Chimi-
Okay, I'm a bit embarassed to admit this, but I've been relatively frisky feeling lately...am I the only one?
I actually have been feeling that way too...for the first time in like 10 months! :) DH thinks I am crazy too. I think he thinks I just want this baby out and am using him.

Cherish-Where did you get your letters?

Here is a fun QOTD...as we all near the end of our pgncies, what are you looking forward to most (besides holding/seeing your baby)?

A glass of wine and sleeping on my belly!

[cocoa_femme]

QOTD: The same as you Ashley. I just want to sip on a good Merlot and sleep on my stomach. Is that bad ;)?

[Chimichanga]

QOTD: I'm looking forward to a glass of champagne and pizza (haven't had it since I got the GD diagnosis) :D

So, I just got a call from the hospital scheduling...my c/s has been scheduled for August 4th at 7:15 a.m. I was kind of surprised by the call - my doctor hadn't finalized the fact that we were for 100% sure going to have a c/s, but I guess we are :D I have an appointment on the 3rd to tour the area and get prepped - that's at 10 a.m.

I guess it's all starting to feel real...real soon!!! :eek: I called my parents and emailed my sister with the info. My mom is going to switch her day off and my dad will take the day off unpaid so they can be up here. Then, once I get released, my mom will be here for a week to help out; gone in Vegas for a week; then back for another week if we need the help.

I've decided I'm taking the 31st-4th off from work as a vacation. There's no way I can concentrate with knowing my baby will be coming on Friday. It's one thing if it's natural, but to know it... nah; I'd be too wound up.

[K&H's mommy]

frisky - hmmm...me too now that I think about it. DH is still weirded out by it, although he wasn't with DS? He said it's different because she's a girl. :confused: Ok hun, whatever.

looking forward to.... - caesar salads, oh how I miss them. I am also looking forward to being able to have a drink. Not that I'm a big drinker but because I can't have one, I want one, LOL! I am also looking forward to sleeping on my stomach again. Although I know that will still be some time since the bbs will be so big that it will be uncomfortable.

We are off to the mall to redeem some Gymbucks. I need to stop buying baby clothes since we haven't even had a shower yet and I know people will buy clothes.

Thanks for the compliments on the belly picture girls. :) makes me feel better!!!

[JenniferH]

Great belly pics!

Amy - Love the bag.

QOTD ~ I really want a Margarita. Not sure why because I don't drink them a lot. I think it is the heat making me want them.

No news from the U/S yesterday. We only saw an ultrasound tech and she couldn't tell us anything. Friday afternoon is the earliest the doctor's office said we would hear something.:mad:

[Sabriel]

Chimichanga Wow, how exciting to have a date set!

ajlanden I actually got them at Walmart. They were $1.77 apiece.

QOTD...as we all near the end of our pgncies, what are you looking forward to most? Being able to bend over!

There is something wrong with my left eye. It hurts so badly and is watering. I called the eye doctor, but they can't get me in until tomorrow afternoon. :(

[jarocha]

Don't have time for SO's right now. Have to run out to do work errands before this heat gets worse.

QOTD: Count me in on a drink. I been craving a margarita, gin & tonic, mojitos, and glass of white wine. Also, can't wait to sleep on my stomach. But most importantly is SUSHI. I can't wait to have sushi. I have not let DH eat it in front of me. I know he sneaks out to eat it because we both love sushi.

[jesseybell]

Had my dr appt:
BP and urine good
Lost FOUR pounds since last week (it was the same scale too as last week!)
2 cm dilated/50% effaced/ -2 justation - all of which unfortunately means nothing

This dr thinks she is weighing at the high 7's. She volunteered to send me for an u/s but the only appt I could get was 3 hours before my regular appt on Wednesday, so I passed.

I asked her if I should make an appt after next week - she told me I could if I wanted to. I didn't...I tell myself if I don't have an appt scheduled, then I won't need one.

There was a baby in the waiting room. I figure his mom must have been in having her sutures looked at, because there was no way he was 6 weeks old. I wanted to ask the person who was watching him but I didn't. He was so little. I can't believe I am going to be having one of those soon!

QOTD - A Margharita (I've had an occasional beer and glass of wine, but stop at the hard stuff), be able to bend over, but most of all be able to roll over in bed! I am half shaven right now - I tried shaving my legs, but gave up after 1. I think I will need to get DH to help me out (or just go without until the birth).

There is a good chance my DH's counterpart at work is going to give his notice next week, which could mean that he'll be gone for the birth, which could mean that DH won't be able to take the planned 2 weeks off, which will really,really suck!

[UTChick]

QOTD
Shave my legs without my air supply being cut off, seeing my feet without having to look around my belly, and an ice cold beer! I have had major beer cravings lately. A cold bottled beer poured into an icey mug. Mmmm... I think it has something to do with the 104-107 degree days we have been having lately. They can't bring beer into the hospital, can they? ;)

[Mrs. M.]

Welcome to Grant Cameron! Congratulations Issacsmommy!

[isaacsmommy]

Thanks for all the welcome ladies!!!!!

I'll post pics first: (more later once they get uploaded)
mommy and Grant:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/isaac7704/grant/birth1.jpg
getting cleaned up:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/isaac7704/grant/birth2.jpg
and just because baby feet are soooo cute:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/isaac7704/grant/footprints.jpg

We just got home a couple hours ago. We are doing really well. I am healing nicely and this may be TMI but my bleeding has pretty much stopped which has suprised me. Breastfeeding is going amazingly well, he is definately a hungry boy. He is a bit jaundiced, so we have the wallaby blanket at home for the next couple days (my little glow worm :) ).

Isaac isn't sure what to think yet. He likes the baby but so far has just seen him at the hospital (hes at daycare for the day) so we'll see how he reacts when he realizes he is here to stay.

I'll post my birth story in a bit, not too much to tell since it was a c/s though. If any mommies to be have any questions feel free to ask since everything is now fresh in my memory.

[babylove]

QOTD: Hmmm...having a glass of wine (again, not a big drinker but I think not being able to have it makes me want it more!), shaving my bikini area :p , eating goat cheese and brie, not peeing so much...

***

Totally unimportant thought that I wanted to share....so, I have lurked for years in other mommy-to-be threads and when the babies started arriving, I could sense that the people who were still pg seemed jealous (not in a malicious way, but in a woe-is-me way) of the other women who were having their babies. I always wondered why that was b/c let's be honest, it's just a matter of weeks before those women gave birth too...well, now I get it!!!!:rolleyes:

[amyinlosangeles]

Isaacsmommy - Wow, what amazingly beautiful pictures - you look great and Grant is absolutely precious!

[babylove]

OH! isaacsmommy! We cross-posted! CONGRATULATIONS!!! Grant is precious! I love the pictures!!!! Especially the adorable baby feet! :D I'm glad you are feeling well and things are going great!

[Chimichanga]

Isaacsmommy - what adorable pictures of Grant! He is so precious. :)

Okay - you offered ;) I just got scheduled for my c/s. What should I pack in my bag? I mean, I know I won't need the labor coping things I was going to bring. I was planning to bring my toiletries, clothes, clothes for the baby, blankets for the baby, and ... ???

Our NST went well. She had to get buzzed again because she wasn't cooperating. And of course she's kicking around like crazy now. I did ask to speak to the doctor and she told me that because she is now lying across my belly, that's why we're doing the c/s. She said she didn't want to try to move this big baby and not have her fit coming out. I said that's good.

She's only measuring 2 weeks big - she was 3-4 at the last u/s. So, the diet is working :) The doctor did say she's weighing in under 9 pounds (plus/minus 1 pound) but she wasn't sure the exact weight because she wasn't looking at the chart. I'll find out for sure on Monday.

[Abby'sMom]

Great pics, Isaacsmommy!!

Quickie post because I have to get lunch for DD - just had an appt. I'm sitting at 3-4cm; OB thinks it could potentially be any time now, but who knows?

[mrstim]

OH I so needed to see those pics of Grant!!! Congrats to you three - he's precious!!! One thing that did stick out to me was that you have gorgeous eyes, Isaacsmommy!!! Totally random, but they look so blue! :D Thanks for sharing - like I said, I needed those pics right now!!!!

Hoping to hear some progress at my appt. tomorrow - they're doing a check on his weight/size tomorrow, and I'm hoping I'm at least progressing some. Then I can say all this pain has been worth it, right? I'm not going to bring the thread down - all I'll say is that I'm definitely joining the miserable crowd.

Anyone else have a constant soreness? I feel like I've done millions of situps - everything from my boobs down is SO sore! Like to the point of having to cradle it all in my arms to move without severe pain. Hmm....

Anyway - just had to say congrats to IM and to comment on the precious baby pics we're getting in here! So I geuss that's officially our first baby pics shown here? WOW - can't believe we're all almost THERE!!! My "official" due date is exactly one month from today - by my calcs and the U/S's it was yesterday, but through doc's little wheel its today. Whee!

eta:35w5d

[ajlanden]

isaacmommy-He is so beautiful....seriously a beautiful newborn! Thank you so much for sharing. I think we could all use some excitment right about now!

Abby'sMom-3-4!! You are making progress!!! Sending you labor vibes!

AMy-~hugs!~

Tracee-I totally get what you are saying. Last time I learned how hard it was to wait until later in the month to have a baby. I really wanted to an early EDD for that very reason. Ah, the timing didn't work. I'm sure I will be one of the last. The good news is that you get to be around for most everyone's births. It is harder to keep track when you have a newborn around!

Cherish-Oooo, I need to go look at Walmart. We got our last ones on ebay and they were a lot of more expensive.

Highlight of my day...I went to Sam's Club to buy diapers at lunch and not one person said anything about my HUGE belly. That hasn't happened it so long. I kinda felt like myself again! :)

[cocoa_femme]

Yay, isaacsmommy! Beautiful pics. Can't wait to hear your birthstory :).

[Camdynlyn]

31w4d compared to 33w2d
http://static.flickr.com/51/184254009_25e51799bd_m.jpghttp://static.flickr.com/44/194138651_778ed138d5_m.jpg

Doctor's appointment today:

He said I'm measuring a little ahead (strange, I was behind last time), blood pressure was excellent and I gained 4 pounds! I had a little blood today but I chalked that up to the deed we did last night! He agreed. He checked for position of her since I was worried and said she's head down and between my pelvis. I think I've dropped a little. Let's see.. we went over my birth plan and he okayed it and put it in my file. My next appointment is August 3 and I'll be 35w3d. I'll schedule my GBS then. He said he usually will perform an internal (although I'm not seeing him next time) while doing the GBS, if the mom wants it. I guess I need to decide. If not, they wait until the week of your due date.

Sorry so big:
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b320/Camdynlyn/newprogression.jpg

[PLNUBRIDE]

ISAACSMOMMY - Congratulations! Grant is SOO adorable:)

CAMDYNLYN - Wow! What a difference between 31W and 33W...crazy!

Ok....I have to vent about 2 things

1) I had an appt today and as of today I have gained a total of 33 pounds. Ok, so I was hoping to stay under 30 pounds total, but with only 2-3 weeks left I am hoping I can stay under 40. I am not overly happy with my weight, but not totally upset either. Well, I told my mom and she sounds alittle shocked that I have gained 4 additional pounds since my last appt (2 weeks ago)....her exactg words were "Oh...Ames....thats not so good, You better be careful". I don't know, she didn't run me into the ground, but it kind of hurt me. Especially after she had already lectured me last night that even though I am pregnant I need to keep up with my hair (she wants me to cut it and color it) and wear make-up more often. And she reminded me that I need to make that a priority after the baby is here. :rolleyes: So, not what I needed to hear the last few days

2) At my appt today, I met with the NP....not the doctor (I am 36 wks, 5 days). The frustrating thing is, I have only had 2 appts with the doctor through my ENTIRE pregnancy. I was OK with this, knowing that my last 3 appts (the weeklys) would be the dr. First, I don't the NP (not through, she is rude, not helpftul and she doesn't take any time with me)...but was willing to put up with her because I like the Dr. Secondly, I wanted my last few appts with the Dr so I could go over my birthing plan and just general birthing fears with the person who will actually be there.

Well...I found out today when scheduling my last 3 appts, that ALL except the last one would be with the NP!!!!:mad: Mind you, I am due anywhere between Aug 5 - Aug 12th (I know these are not set in stone). My last appt is scheduled for Aug 8th!!! I have not see my dr since April!!! For some reason I find this totally unacceptable and my DH was pretty upset about it too! BUt what in the world can I do at this point?!?! The only other OBGYN I would want to switch to does not accept new patients...except by referals from another OB who feels the patient is high risk.

I feel as if I am going into this whole birthing thing blind and totally unprepared....and not being able to meet with the person who will supposedly be delivering my baby makes me nervous. I just feel as if I am being pushed to wayside....partically b/c I feel so not cared for by the NP....If she was better at what she did maybe I wouldn't feel so upset..I dont know

Ok...sorry, but I had to get this off my chest...

[babylove]

SOs as far back as I can see...

Jen ~ I'm glad your appt went well! Great job sticking to your GD diet!!

Sherry ~ How exciting that it could be any time!!!!

Amy ~ Good luck at your appt today! I am sore too...everywhere. Not fun at all.

Ashley ~ I don't think I could go five minutes all day without a comment about my belly..unless I lock myself in my office :rolleyes:

Summer ~ 2 weeks makes a big difference!

Amy~ So sorry about your mom's comments...my mom would say the same thing about my weight gain in the beginning and I snapped at her so she hasn't made a peep since. The situation w/ your dr is upsetting...can't you voice your concerns to the dr??

***

Well, one more week until full term...I can't believe it!! I have my 36w appt this morning at 8:15 and I'm really hoping for some progress. The baby feels so low right now that I fear he will just fall out! (wouldn't that be nice...) We had our infant CPR class last night and that was really helpful. I'm very glad we did it and I am thinking of asking my parents and ILs to do it as well, since they will be our primary babysitters.

[jennylou]

plnubride - I really think you need to call the OBs office and ask for the office manager. I think it's totally unacceptable that you've only seen your OB three times during your pregnancy. Further, I'd probably ask to speak with the OB as well as the office manager. He needs to know that his NP is not taking care of his patients in a manner that leaves you satisfied. And while you might not leave right now (you're kind of stuck) that doesn't mean you'll be back after this birth....which does lose him potential cash so he should care. I'm sorry you're going through all this plus your mom talking about your weight. As for your weight, try not to get too freaked out by it. A few weeks ago, between a two week appt I gained 5 pounds. My OB didn't mention it being bad, but I was upset. The next appt I had was the following week. I lost half a pound. Then, at last weeks appt, I'd lost 5 pounds. Right now we've got lots of crazy water weight going on.

IM - great pictures. :)

mrstim - ha, soreness, yep. Not to scare ya, but it only gets worse the further along you get.

QOTD - looking forward to the end and what we want to do? Like others, I want to be able to sip on the forbidden beer/alchohol (and I'm not a huge drinker either!). I'd like to be able to have a med rare steak. Oh, and bleu cheese, I want some! Have more tuna/seafood. And to be able to roll over without having pain. Mostly, though, I can't wait to hold this baby girl. :) It's truly all worth it - giving everything up.

Have an appt today, along with a BPP and a NST. That'll last most of my afternoon. I'm meeting a friend for lunch before hand. :)

[JenniferH]

Great pics Isaacsmommy! He is beautiful!

[babylove]

I just returned from my 36w appt and it's all good news!!

BP: 120/60
baby's hb: perfect (they never give me #s)
weight: - 1/2 lb
fundal height: 36 (it was 37 last week--baby dropped)
dilation: 1 cm (I wasn't dilated AT ALL last week)
effacement: 80%+ (I was 50% effaced last week)
station: 0!! (baby was at a -2 station last week)

so LOTS of progress! The dr said that things are VERY favorable and that the baby seems to be an average size (~6lbs right now, though I don't put too much stock in these guesses). He doesn't think I'll make it to my due date but b/c things are looking so good, he would induce me on 8/14 if I'm really uncomfortable and haven't delivered yet. (no comments from the peanut gallery, please!...) Is there any 39w pg women out there who ISN'T really uncomfortable?? I'm very pleased :) I made my next three appts (7/28, 8/4, 8/11), and then I'm finished!!

[Abby'sMom]

Ok, here we go... trying to catch up since DD is asleep...

Tracee, good news! I sorta figured you were at least 1cm since it's hard to lose your plug if you're still sealed up. ;) Abby rode extremely low in my pelvis when I was pg with her, too - it does feel like he'll fall out, doesn't it? This one's much higher.

Jenny, have a good appt.

PLNU, sheesh, what is it with mothers? I'm sorry she wasn't kind about your weight gain (which I think is totally fine, FWIW). She'd have a fit if *I* were her kid - I seem to gain 2-4 pounds A WEEK at this point. As for the OB thing, I'd call and ask about it, too. Nicely, of course - asking again about their policy and stating your concerns.

Summer, you've popped a little more! Nice compilation shot. I just upload all of mine to Snapfish so I can look at them next to each other; I need to get a photo editing program.

Ashley, meh! I hardly ever have anyone even asking when I'm due. Maybe people around here are more paranoid about assuming pregnancy, LOL?

Amy, have a good appt. There's all sorts of pain and unpleasantness associated with all of this, huh? But the end result is the coolest 'thing'! :)

Jen, wow for having your c/s scheduled! Does it all seem more real for you now?

Jessie, sounds like things are moving along for you! My OB 'estimated' G2's size at about 7 lbs yesterday (just from palpating). But who knows?

Cherish, yikes, how's your eye feeling now? Do you think you got something in it? I hate that feeling. :(

Sara, ah, Gymbucks. I've never bought anything at Gymboree, but I have some friends who are total addicts! And Abby has lots of Gymbo hand-me-downs from Adam's cousin.

Jennifer, any news yet?

Amy, wow, that's a diaper bag? It kinda looks like my purse (though much, much nicer!). Very pretty!

Joelle, wahoo on being full term!! I'm looking forward to hearing when little man arrives. I've got your # posted so I don't ignore the call when I don't recognize it. ;)

QOTD - I'm not really itching to do anything post-baby. I don't drink at all, and I've never been a belly-sleeper. I'd say sleep better, but I know that won't happen for a while ;) . Maybe just having my body back (or as much as I can call it mine when I'm BFing, anyway).

It's going to be hot here again today (is there anywhere that ISN'T hot except Seattle these days?). I think A and I are going to go walk around the mall to see if I can get things going. I don't want to stall at 3-4cm! Tomorrow's slated to be busy - A has a birthday party to attend, then in the evening we have a farewell party for a friend... and I want to find some good labor-inducing pizza before then for lunch. ;)

Happy Friday all around....

[Sabriel]

Our nursery is almost finished! The walls are acually a pale yellow. I don't think the pictures show it very accurately. Actually, I think the whole room is prettier in person.

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c230/Sabriel748/DSC00508.jpg

I am still waiting on knobs that I won on ebay to put on the dresser. the changing pad will go on top of the dresser when I get it.

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c230/Sabriel748/DSC00510.jpg

This picture is a little crooked. The letters are actually straight!

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c230/Sabriel748/DSC00511.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c230/Sabriel748/DSC00509.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c230/Sabriel748/DSC00512.jpg

My grandma made this afghan for me when I was young. It matches the room perfectly!

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c230/Sabriel748/DSC00513.jpg

[babylove]

I forgot to add that I'm GBS negative!! yay! That's such a relief

and while I'm here...

Sherry ~ Hmmm...I guess I didn't put 2 and 2 together! Duh! It does feel like he's going to fall right out!

Cherish ~ Beautiful nursery!!!!! I love the colors :)

[Sabriel]

Abby'sMom It still hurts! I have no idea what is wrong. :( 3-4 cm, wow!

babylove Yay for a good appointment and yay for progress! Yay for being GBS negative! I am starting to understand the jealousy too.

jennylou Have a good lunch with your friend!

PLNUBRIDE Sorry about your mom. Your body will gain as much as it needs to take care of your baby. As for your ob's office, I would definitely call and find out why you are not seeing the doctor for your appointments. That is rediculous.

Camdynlyn Great belly shots! You are definitely growing! Glad your appointment went well!

ajlanden I love when strangers don't talk to me. LOL, I am getting tired of answering the same questions over and over...

mrstim Sorry about the soreness. So far it is only my pelvis, but man does it hurt!

Chimichanga Glad your NST went well. You are doing such a good job with your diet! I am always impressed.

isaacsmommy Grant is so adorable! Thanks for sharing his pictures!

jesseybell Glad your appointment went well! I hope DH is able to take off work when the baby is born! That would suck if he couldn't.

[JenniferH]

Sabriel ~ Love the nursery!

Abby'smom ~ No news yet.....:mad:

[Abby'sMom]

Cherish, bummer. I had a thought - a few years ago I scratched the surface of my eye. It watered like crazy and hurt to open it and was a little sensitive to light. I have no idea how it happened, but it definitely hurt! I was give some eyedrops and dark glasses to wear, and it was much better within a few days. Maybe that's it?

[Sabriel]

Abby'sMom That sounds a lot like what is going on. It is definitely sensitive to light. I even broke down and took some children's tylenol earlier, because it hurt so badly that all I could do was sit here with my eyes closed. It seems to have taken the edge off of the pain. (I have a pretty high pain tolerance too. I can't remember the last time I took a pain reliever, even before I was pg.) I go to the eye doctor at 4pm, so hopefully she can fix it!

ETA: I think I may have dropped a little. When I sit down my belly is laying on my lap!

[Chimichanga]

Sabriel - love the nursery!

Abby'smom - good luck with walking around at the mall. I hope it helps.

Babylove - yay for a good appt!!

Got our furniture last night and it looks so nice! DH and I worked on the nursery for about an hour; just organizing, but we have SOOOO much still to do. I hope to have it finished on Sunday and I'll post pictures then. It does look pretty nice though; if I do say so myself.

Tomorrow DH and I are going to look at (and probably buy) a Mitsubishi Endeavor. It's bigger than the Escape and has only 16K miles; so MUCH better in that area. I know DH wants it, but we also have to be realistic too.

I'm kind of bummed today; I thought we'd be getting our quarterly bonus checks today and we didn't. We'd sock it away in savings to help when I'm out, so it's not like I wanted to blow it all. But...it would make me feel more comfortable if we had it in hand - you know?

QOTD - besides your belly, what is the most swollen part on your body?
My ankles! I hurt them quite a bit during sports, and they have been perma-swollen since about 7 months. but my feet are "normal" - occassionally they get puffy but not too bad. My ankles look seriously gross.

[PLNUBRIDE]

Some SO's as far as I can see back -

JennyLou - Good luck at your appt today! Hope all is well and that you have a great lunch with your friend

Babylove - WOw! You have made some great progress!!! Yeah, I don't think you will make it to your EDD..not even close:). That is cool that your Dr is so "proactive". Also, congrats on being GBS negative

Abby's mom - Sounds like you have a busy weekend. Good luck with the
labor inducing" activities:)

sabriel - Can I just say your nursery is ADORABLE!!! I LOVE the pale yellow with the pink...VERY VERY CUTE. You did a great job:)

Chimichanga - Glad to hear that the nursery is coming along. Also, good luck with the car purchase....it is such a hard decision when it comes to knowing what to buy and when...I am sure it will work out if it is the car both you and DH want. Also...I hear you on the Bonus check thing. I am patient waiting my DH bonus (along with a travel expense reimbursement check that is 3 weeks late) so that I can put it in savings. I know it is coming, but it is so much nicer to actually have it:)

QOTD - Definitely my ankles. My feet not so much, but my ankles. Luckily, this has just started that last few weeks.
Other QOTD - I can't wait to have a drink (not a huge drinker either) and be just plain ole comfortable when sitting or lying down....boy do I miss that:)

***
Thanks for the comments about my dr situation- It is good to hear that I am not being totally unreasonable.
I forgot to mention though that my Dr is out of town right now (left 2 wks ago and will be back Aug 7th), so that is the reason for the NP visits. However, I (and the other OB office that I called that works with my DR) was under the impression that my Dr would be back next week (again, allowing my last 3 appts to be with the Dr). So, although I totally understand that everyone needs a vacation...I wish I would have known 2 weeks ago how long it would be....at least I would have felt that I could have switched drs!
Yeah, also forgot to mention....I have a yeast infection, that just added to my irritation (no puin intended)

About my mom - I don't even know what to say to her anymore. I guess I should just ignore it....it is just so irritating. Although I do hope that I actually shed a few pounds like some of your ladies have in the last few weeks.....wouldn't that be nice:P)

[cocoa_femme]

Cherish, I love your nursery. So pretty.

Don't really have the energy to do SOs, so please forgive me. I do, however, have pics to share.

Here I am (38w, 1d):
http://images1.snapfish.com/347673366%7Ffp343%3Enu%3D3246%3E542%3E6%3B%3A%3EWS NRCG%3D323396548%3A37%3Bnu0mrj

http://images1.snapfish.com/347673366%7Ffp339%3Enu%3D3246%3E542%3E6%3B%3A%3EWS NRCG%3D323396548%3A37%3Anu0mrj

Here are pics of our (almost done) nursery:
http://images1.snapfish.com/347673366%7Ffp345%3Enu%3D3246%3E542%3E6%3B%3A%3EWS NRCG%3D323396548%3A377nu0mrj

http://images1.snapfish.com/347673366%7Ffp339%3Enu%3D3246%3E542%3E6%3B%3A%3EWS NRCG%3D323396548997%3Cnu0mrj

http://images1.snapfish.com/347673366%7Ffp345%3Enu%3D3246%3E542%3E6%3B%3A%3EWS NRCG%3D323396548%3A378nu0mrj

http://images1.snapfish.com/347673366%7Ffp345%3Enu%3D3246%3E542%3E6%3B%3A%3EWS NRCG%3D3233965489983nu0mrj

[Sabriel]

cocoa_femme You look so cute and happy! I LOVE the color of your nursery walls!

PLNUBRIDE Stupid yeast infections! I hate them. I am still dealing with the one under my bbs. :mad:

Chimichanga Have fun buying your new car! I hope you get your check soon!

QOTD - besides your belly, what is the most swollen part on your body? My ankles and toes. They are not swollen all of the time, but they usually swell up in the evenings.

I am posting like crazy today! ;)

[jesseybell]

Bleeding after an internal? - I expected some after my internal yesterday so I went to the appt prepared with a pad. But nothing...But this morning and since them I've had some light brown/red discharge. I know it is probably just from the internal, but I keep hoping it is another sign since it took so long to appear after the internal.

I am SO ready to be done. I would be in heaven if I went into labor Sunday night.....

[isaacsmommy]

My birth sotry:

We arrived at the hospital at 5:30 a.m. We were put in a small observation room on L&D. Dh took a few last belly pictures, then I got changed into a hospital gown. They monitored the baby’s hb and my blood pressure for a while. The nurse drew my blood started an IV. The anesthesiologist and OB both came in and talked about the procedure and what to expect. Then about 7:15 I was wheeled to the OR. I sat on the table and got hooked up to several monitor then the anesthesiologist performed the spinal. That was uncomfortable, but not horrible at all. I got very tingly before I even had the chance to lie down. Then they started to prep my belly for the surgery. They let my dh come in then. Everything went quickly and smoothly after that, besides getting nauseous a couple times.

Then Grant Cameron was born at 7:53 am, he came out screaming. My dh went over to see him while they cleaned him up. Then my dh got to hold him, but unfortunately Grant was showing a little distress and had to be taken up to the nursery so I only got to see him for a minute. Everyone was surprised to see that he was such a big boy for his gestation, 7lbs 7oz and 20 inches long.

Once they were finished with the surgery I went to recovery. My oxygen saturation went a bit low while there so I had to have some oxygen for a bit, everything else was fine though. Then I was transferred to my room where I finally got to see Grant a couple of hours later.
______________________

What to pack for a c/s Well, not too much differently from the regular recovery stuff. I would suggest some kind of premoistened cleansing cloths, since it is hard to get up and in my experience you sweat a lot (darn hormones). Also I liked having my own clothes after the first day or so (especially since your there longer). I didn't ruin any of my clothes either since the bleeding is much lighter after a c/s. Just make sure the clothes are really stretchy/ loose so that they don't put pressure on your incision and so that you can pull them down easily for the nurses to check you. Mainly I think just stuff that will make you comfortable/ you like since you are there longer than with a vaginal delivery.

Thank you ladies for all the compliments on Grant. We are so in love with him, even his brother who came home yesterday afternoon and screamed "My baby" when he saw him.

The home health nurse came today and checked his weight (up 8 oz since yesterday :eek: :D ) and stuck his heel so they could check his bilirubin level.

Looks like someones getting hungry......... write more later

[Abby'sMom]

Congrats again, Jenn!

Jessie, I've been spotting since about 6 hours after my appt yesterday, too. You never know what it means til labor starts. ;)

Cocoa, too cute!

QOTD - my ankles were puffy last weekend, but went down on Tuesday. Otherwise, I'm (knock on wood) not really swollen at all, except my fingers overnight. I'm still comfortably wearing both of my rings at the moment.

[babylove]

Cherish ~ I hope your eye feels better. :(

Jen ~ Congrats on getting the furniture! I can't wait to see it :)

Amy ~ Yeah, I don't think you will make it to your EDD..not even close Oh, I hope you're right!!! I still think you should have a chat w/ your dr about this whole situation. And don't feel bad, I only lost a half lb in the last week and that was b/c I had an upset stomach...it's not for lack of stuffing my face with reckless abandon!

Bree ~ I posted on LJ but you look adorable and I love the nursery!

Jessie ~ You are sooo close! I had an internal this morning and am spotting (but it took a few hours to start). I didn't spot last week until the next day and it was brown. Today it's red and a lot more but I think that's a combo of progressing and the dr not being gentle at all.

Jenn ~ How wonderful! Your DS's reaction to Grant made my eyes well up. That is just adorable!

***

QOTD: My hands/fingers are the most swollen by far. My feet get puffy if I'm standing or walking a lot, but other than that, I'm good. Surprisingly, I still have ankles.

[cocoa_femme]

Cherish, Abby'sMom & babylove, thanks for all the compliments :)!

QOTD: My hands are a little swollen. But, it's my feet and toes that get really bad. DH calls them his little vienna sausages. I took my shoes off for 20 minutes (while I was sitting at my desk), and I couldn't get the right one back on :o.

[jesseybell]

swollen - I was doing so well - I was even contemplating putting my rings back on, but today it cooler, but very muggy and I noticed that my hands are very swollen - the A/C at work doesn't work well....or it could be the pizza I had for lunch! I am trying to drink water like crazy.

[jennylou]

swollen - sometimes it's my fingers, sometimes my ankles/feet. I bought a ring set (off ebay) a whole size bigger than normal. I still have to take them off at the end of the day to give my fingers a break. But, sometimes my feet/ankles are more swollen than even my fingers.

I had my 37 week appt today (I'm 37w5d). I had an NST/BPP and an internal. Everything was fine, baby girl is still head down. :) I am now ONE cen, instead of just a fingertip like last week. But, I'm still thick. I was, however, having contractions while on the NST. Oh, and her head is way up there (though I'm not thinking about that too much as they say second babies don't really drop early like first babies).

cocoa - looking great.

[Abby'sMom]

Jenny -

instead of just a fingertip like last week. But, I'm still thick. I was, however, having contractions while on the NST. Oh, and her head is way up there (though I'm not thinking about that too much as they say second babies don't really drop early like first babies).


Exactly! That's what my OB was reminding me yesterday when I complained s/he hasn't dropped much yet! He said once your water breaks as a RO, the head usually comes on down pretty quickly (unless of course there's something else blocking it).

[mrstim]

Had my 36 week appt. today!

I'm not dilated, or effaced. I'm just "softened". The doc said I had definitely dropped - no kidding, buddy! I lost a pound - still on modified br, because he's very concerned about the continued swelling, but he's very happy with where I'm at. Baby weighs in at 5 pounds, 8 ounces, and is definitely a boy with all the right plumbing. BP was 126/60, so bedrest has helped, another reason I'm still on it. Oh well - I was dissapointed that I hadn't really progressed that much, but something is better than nothing, and my lil'man is healthy, so that's what matters. Remind me of that later when I complain, k? :D

Swollen: My lower legs/ankles/feet are all double the usual. My face and hands are also extremely puffy. I have two pairs of shoes that I can wear - everything else won't go on at all. I'm the big one in the tennis shoes at church on sunday with my dressy clothes, thank ya very much! ;)

eta: my next appointment is July 29th

[craftgenius]

cocoa_femme - You look SO CUTE!!! You are almost there girl!!!

[Chimichanga]

While this is not the final nursery, here are some pictures of it cleaned up. I need to vacuum.
http://images1.snapfish.com/347676949%7Ffp33%3B%3Enu%3D323%3A%3E336%3E9%3A8%3E WSNRCG%3D323397578%3B369nu0mrj
looking in from the door. The ugly box behind the chair is all of the books. I'm not sure if I like the placement of the chair, but it's so big (and comfy!) I don't think it will work anywhere else
http://images1.snapfish.com/347676949%7Ffp339%3Enu%3D323%3A%3E336%3E9%3A8%3EWS NRCG%3D323397578%3B376nu0mrj
Looking from the window at the dresser/changing table and closet
http://images1.snapfish.com/347676949%7Ffp339%3Enu%3D323%3A%3E336%3E9%3A8%3EWS NRCG%3D323397578%3B394nu0mrj
Looking from the chair at the crib/door
http://images1.snapfish.com/347676949%7Ffp345%3Enu%3D323%3A%3E336%3E9%3A8%3EWS NRCG%3D323397578%3B3%3A3nu0mrj
Looking inside the crib. Bedding is Lambs & Ivy Enchanted Garden.

[Chimichanga]

http://images1.snapfish.com/347676949%7Ffp343%3Enu%3D323%3A%3E336%3E9%3A8%3EWS NRCG%3D323397578%3B3%3A%3Cnu0mrj
Our crib is a Legacy convertable in Pecan.
http://images1.snapfish.com/347676949%7Ffp343%3Enu%3D323%3A%3E336%3E9%3A8%3EWS NRCG%3D3233975795%3C33nu0mrj
A better look at the chair - it's fuzzy and i love it!
http://images1.snapfish.com/347676949%7Ffp343%3Enu%3D323%3A%3E336%3E9%3A8%3EWS NRCG%3D3233975795%3C39nu0mrj
My parents call the baby "Sweet Pea" so at my shower they got these little bath soaps and made them look like peas.

On Sunday DH and I will work on hanging the rest of the things on the wall and getting some shelves to put the books on.

[babylove]

Great looking nursery Jen!! That chair looks sooo comfy!!

[jesseybell]

Chimichanga - I love your nursery! I almost got that bedding.

I had far from a fun drive home last night. We had to go pick up DH's car, so I was driving in bumper-to-bumper traffic and was having cramping and some contractions. Then after I dropped him off I had a 17 mile drive home, luckily not on the highway. I was having more contractions and cramping and then it starting pouring (torrential downpour) - I should have pulled over because I couldn't really see, plus I only had 1 hand on the wheel because I kept rubbing my belly. Once I got home I sat in the car for 10 minutes until DH got home too. The contractions stopped after about 1/2 an hour but the cramping continued. A warm shower helped and I went to bed at 10 and was in bed for 12 hours. I still have some cramping this morning and my crotch is SO sore!

Off to do some shopping.

[UTChick]

Jessie~ It sounds like things are starting to happen for you! I will be surprised if you make it to your due date.

Chimichanga~ Love that bedding! Your nursery looks great.

cocoa~ You look great!

Swelling Feet and toes mostly, but sometimes my ankles swell too. My fingers aren't too bad but a little more swollen than normal.

[Camdynlyn]

chimichanga: We looked at that bedding, too! :)

[it's a bug]

Anyone have thoughts on this? At my first internal exam 2 weeks ago, the Dr. said I was 50% effaced. This last week (my 2nd internal exam) she said that I was 25% effaced. Is it weird to go backwards on effacement? Everything else is moving forward...the dilation and positioning of the baby. TIA

[isaacsmommy]

Grant had his first dr apt today. He is doing well, up another ounce from yesterday. The nurse just came to draw his bili level so we will find that out in a few hours :crossingfingers: that it has gone down.

Here are some new pics: (let me know if I overload you guys)
Grant's first time home:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/isaac7704/homecoming.jpg

Grant sleping in his carseat:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/isaac7704/grantasleep.jpg

Isaac likes Grant's carseat too:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/isaac7704/isaaccarseat.jpg
Isaac giving one of many kisses to Grant:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/isaac7704/isaackisses.jpg
(please ignore Isaacs dirty shirt, he just got home from daycare)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/isaac7704/myboys.jpg

this is Isaac as a newborn (I think they look a lot alike):
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/isaac7704/isaacnew.jpg

[isaacsmommy]

its a bug- According to my dr. the whole dialation/effacement thing is very subjective so you may be the same or maybe you did go backwards. I know you can go backwards on dialation.

[jesseybell]

I really hope things are moving along - either that or I am just really, really miserable! Little girl has been moving like crazy - I sware she is doing disco dances in there because I'll feel a jab in my left hip and right rib at the same time.

I think I am loosing more of my plug, or just really heavy CM - hard to tell.

I bought a couple more nursing bras and a pair of post-pregnancy gauchos. They will be my first goal to get into once I am out of maternity pants.

[K&H's mommy]

Hello laides - oh I am miserable here in this heat! It's 110 right now, just horribly hot! It's actually supposed to get up to 113!! :eek: It's too hot to do anything it seems! We went to go check out the status of our new house. While the house itself is almost done, we are still waiting for them to hook up the water so they can do the landscaping and all that stuff. THey still don't know when that's going to happen. Sigh.... looks like I'll be bringing the baby home to this place then. I've come to accept it.

I went crazy at the mall the other day. I bought 23 outfits for this spoiled little girl! In my *defense* (ahem) they are from newborn to size 2T. But still. I went nuts. I know better because with 2 showers coming up I know we'll get even more clothes. I just can't pass up a cute infant girl sundress it seems!

QOTD - swelling - I'm actually very impressed with myself this time around (especially in this heat). I am not swollen at all. I'm still wearing both rings, still have ankles. I do notice that after work my legs are swollen from where my socks end, but they are back to normal after I wake up. With DS I was hugely swollen from 30 weeks until weeks after delivery.

My attempt at s/0's

jessey - hope things start moving for you!

isaacsmommy - he is just adorable!! I don't think he looks *that* yellow, I'm sure his levels are fine!


it's a bug - that happened to me with DS. I was checked when we first got the hospital and told that I was 2cm and 80% effaced. A few hours later I was only 1cm and 50% effaced. :mad: It's all subjective depending on the person doing the exam unfortunatley!

chimichanga - the nursery looks wonderful! I'm so jealous seeing all the nurseries since we have nothing at this point!

mrstim - It's funny how doctors are different. I had a BP of 145/90 and they did NOTHING (this is with DS). Told me to "take it easy". I had horrible swelling too and it hurt so bad because it was just stretching my skin. Oh and I wore my tennis shoes when my feet were so swollen with DS - and when I went to put them on after I had him, they were HUGE!! I didn't realize that I was stretching them out the whole time, LOL! :o

jennylou - hopefully things start moving right along for you too! You're almost there!

cocoafemme - you look absolutely adorable! You are glowing! The nursery looks great too!

PLNUbride - I don't blame you for being mad about your MD/NP situation. I actually wouldn't mind seeing the NP more becuase she listens and my MD just wants me in and out. But since you WANT to see your MD I think you should be able too. As for your mom, why do they do that? Heck I gained 60 pounds with DS...it was fluid, what could I do? My mom has learned not to make comments about me anymore but she used to do it REALLY bad. "Oh huney I see you have a huge pimple/growth on the end of your nose, are you washing your face before bed?" Yes mom I am and thanks for pointing it out for me, I thought the 5 hours I spent in the bathroom trying to conceal it worked. ;) Don't worry - once the baby is born you could cut off your nose and she won't notice, she'll be baby obsessed.

Sabriel - I love the nursery! Love the pink and yellow combination!!

Sherry - goodness 3-4cm!! Your going to go to 10 and not even know it and then the baby will just fall out at the grocery store, LOL! Just kidding obviously! Maybe you are in labor right now???

[Chimichanga]

jesseybell - ugh about the contractions. How are you feeling now? It shouldn't be too much longer for you, right? You're EDD is 7/31 technically right?

isaacsmommy - baby picture overload? Never!!! :D

K&H's Mommy - but you know what? You know what types of clothes you're going to dress her in. some outfits we get as gifts are so *not* our style. Just tell yourself that ;)

Thanks for all of the compliments on the nursery :)

today DH and I "bought" the car, but because the bank was closed we couldn't take the car home. No biggie though. The guy said if the price he quoted us changes; it should only be by a few cents. Not too bad.

We stopped at an outlet mall near the dealership and we bought her coming home outfit. It's a white onesie with some blue around the collar and arms. It's got a bit of frill and a duck embroidered on the front. We got some matching socks. it's a cute outfit, still girlie but not pink for DH.

I also just ordered some Snappi's for our cloth diapering and four Proraps. We only got 2 newborns and 2 smalls - I'd like to see if they work before buying more. The website recommended 5 proraps - I'm guessing per size. We might be doing quite a bit of laundry. but, with her being so small, we might not use a cover all of the time because we're going to be holding her all the time. I guess we'll see.

I'm starting to feel very tired right now - it was warm out and we were walking around the outlet mall. I am getting hungry and really don't feel like making dinner - not a good thing after we spent so much money today :o

[Camdynlyn]

RO's: Question about budget:

I'm sitting here trying to do our budget for the upcoming months and I want to put in a Baby category for all things baby (diapers, wipes, etc). I'll be breastfeeding (God willing) so I guess take that into mind. What should I budget, per month, for our upcoming arrival?

[UTChick]

Camdynlyn~ You are obviously spending your Saturday night the exact same way I am! :p Woohoo - budgets! I am interested in hearing what the ROs have to say, too.

[babylove]

Jenn ~ Love the pics! Grant is so adorable and Isaac looks like he loves his little brother! How are you feeling? Recovering well, I hope!

Jessie ~ I'm feeling lots of movement too, which is odd considering how little room is left in there!

Sara ~ OMG! I love your house!!! I *heart* your wood/iron stair railing--it's exactly what I'm looking for! I want iron and DH wants wood...perfect compromise! And your kitchen is beautiful...oh and totally drooling over your laundry room!! That new house will be worth the wait!

Jen ~ Congrats on the new car!

***

Up early b/c I can't sleep. Around 4am I went downstairs to sleep on the couch. When I can't sleep in bed, usually a change of scenery helps. But I am just so uncomfortable. I feel so bad saying this at "only" 36w2d but I am so DONE. I feel sick almost all day (stomach just isn't right, can't stop belching--like the 1st tri all over!), I'm exhausted no matter how much sleep I get, it actually hurts to bend my fingers, my clothes are too small, and it's a struggle to walk....I hate being a complainer, especially knowing how badly I wanted to be pg...but really, I'm done. Sorry to be a downer. :( (But I guess the good news is that three weeks from tomorrow for sure I'll have my baby in my arms)

[Camdynlyn]

Kathy: No kidding! I feel like I've looked at that budget TONS of times and I even dreamt about it last night!! :rolleyes:

Tracee: I could have written your post except I'd have to change the 36w2d to 33w6d. Talk about Blech!

**
So, I'm sleeping decent but my hips fall asleep (yes, I've got pillow between them) and I just toss and turn. When I am asleep, though, it's pretty good. Bean is moving around like crazy so everytime I turn over, she does a little jig that last about 10 minutes. It's like she can't get comfy, either. Poor thing.

I spent last night trying to work on our budget and I'm at a loss. I'm not sure how we got to where we are?! :eek: We used to be SO good about budgeting and I could have even SAH but since we moved in October, we didn't keep up with our budget and are WAY over monthly. I'm bound and determined to get it on track in August. I will track EVERY PENNY that goes in and out. I hate being this way. Maybe it's just my nesting coming out where I want things to be perfect and handled. Who knows.

[jennylou]

38w today!

My hips hurt too. I had a horrible back ache last night - nothing would stop it, not even my old stand by of the hot shower. Back still hurts some today, but not horrible like last night.

I'm having contractions, but most aren't horrible and the ones that are bad aren't regular. I am continuing to lose a bit of mucus plug here and there.

All that said, even though I'm at the point where it's rough going, I'm trying to enjoy every last minute of it. Being pregnant is a truly awesome experience (can you believe our bodies grow these little babies????) and I just try to think about the miracle of it all.

[jesseybell]

My hips hurt like crazy too - especially when I wake up. I walk lie an old lady to the bathroom.

It is hard not to complain, even though this is what we wanted - I just really want to meet our baby and move on to the next phase as being parents. Being pregnant has been wonderful and something I feel so blessed to have been able to experience- I just wonder how some people do it so many times!

Today we have a very nice dinner planned - an early b-day dinner for DH.Then, bring on the baby!!

[Camdynlyn]

Jenny, you are exactly right about enjoying being pregnant. I'm on the fence about being ready. I am ready to have my body back and sleep better and all that jazz but I'll miss having her inside of me. Hubby made the comment last night on the way back from supper that he had no idea what I'll do when she's born because I'll be rubbing an empty tummy! :p I didn't realize it but I do rub it all the time. I was driving when he said that and of course, I had one hand on the wheel and one on my stomach! :) It is an awesome experience to know we 'grow' babies but what's even weirder (I was a little freaked out at first but then didn't have to worry about it because I'm having a girl) is that or bodies can grow a PENIS! :eek: Scary, huh?

[Chimichanga]

I'm not an RO, but we were thinking about budget too. We're going to CD and BF (god willing) and we have more than enough clothes for this little girl for the first several months. I'm thinking our big expense will be our water bill because of all of the washing. I could be totally naive, but that's what I'm thinking. I am going to stock up food for a few weeks so we won't have to buy "big" food like meat and stuff - just small things like milk and bread.

Once I go back to work, I guess we'll see how things play out, but we aren't anticipating too much of a hit on our budget. We are able to put enough in savings now that we can be "comfortable" every month. But, that could all go out the window at any time ;)

Hips - yes they are painful! It takes me about 5 minutes to turn over in bed because it is so painful. And I"m as big as a house so I need extra time to move this. :p

I'm trying to keep things in perspective and not complain, but you know what? We have that right! Our DH's will never know what we are experiencing. Every woman is different so what is super painful for us might not be for them - or vice versa. I know we're all happy for the PG - Lord knows I am since I was trying to convince DH since we got married to have a baby - but we're only human. Everyone complains about something - a sore back, an ache or other pain -- we at least have an "excuse." We're growing a human being. Hope that helps! :D

[Abby'sMom]

I just want to give what Jen said a big Amen:

I'm trying to keep things in perspective and not complain, but you know what? We have that right! Our DH's will never know what we are experiencing. Every woman is different so what is super painful for us might not be for them - or vice versa. I know we're all happy for the PG - Lord knows I am since I was trying to convince DH since we got married to have a baby - but we're only human. Everyone complains about something - a sore back, an ache or other pain -- we at least have an "excuse." We're growing a human being. Hope that helps!

After puking for 30+ weeks, being on modified bedrest for 5.5 weeks after that, ALL while having to deal with DD (who is wonderful, don't get me wrong, but she's 20 months old at the moment and doesn't understand any of it), I have the right to b!tch if I want to, and you're darn right that I will. I think we're at the point where it's REALLY ok. :)

[July&August2006Mommies]

Updated to here!

[UTChick]

Add me to the list of those with hip pain. When I get up to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night I have to mentally prepare myself for the act of rolling over and getting out of bed. Then I do the old lady shuffle because sometimes it hurts when I try to lift my left foot to take a step. :p But I am sure I will miss this all in a couple of months. I, too, wonder how long it will take me to stop rubbing my belly once the baby is born - it is a habit now and most of the time I don't even know I am doing it.


Oh, and note to self: No more reading stretch mark threads before bedtime. Talk about some nightmares! :eek:

[babylove]

I thought there was going to be some excitement in my house last night...I had a few actual contractions, but they stopped. :( But Truman was moving like crazy and I could feel it *really* low...it was keeping me from sleeping too, which is strange b/c he usually settles down once I fall asleep. And then I thought my water broke...but it turns out it was just pee :rolleyes: I think I'm just so anxious that something could happen at any time that I get all worked up about it. I hate the unknown. Oh, and I also had lots of those awful ice-pic-in the cervix pains and couldn't get comfortable in bed so I slept on the couch...and slept well!

Painting in the nursery will be completed today! And the nursery furniture is being delivered on Wednesday. It was supposed to be on 8/5 but I got nervous and reschedled for earlier. I can't wait to see it all put together!! We're going to have a nursery :eek: :eek:

[Chimichanga]

Personally, I think the unknown is the biggest "complaint" I have. It's like - is that labor? Did my water break? There's no definitive answer - which ticks me off ;) Babylove I hope things continue smoothly for you and Truman.

Yesterday was a horrible day for me. I was SUCH a crab to poor DH. We went grocery shopping and I was just mean. I really wasn't upset or anything, but I couldn't stop. He has been such a saint. Then, I started crying when we were trying to figure out what to have for lunch. He wanted Arby's and keeps reminding me of their deli sandwhiches - which I can't eat. So, I broke out into tears because I really wanted pizza. We compromised and had Culver's, split the fries and I had a shake. My blood sugar wasn't too bad and I got that out of my system. :)

[JenniferH]

Finally found out everything is OK with the baby's measurements. He is not measuring small at all. Everything looks good (placenta, fluid, and cervix). My doc just wants me to increase my calories by 200 a day. He suggested milk shakes and ice cream. I asked if he could hold on while I got my DH on the phone. LOL!

My biggest complaint is lower back pain. When I get up from sitting too long, I can't even stand up straight.

Jenn ~ Grant is too cute! He does look a lot of Isaac! I can't wait to see how Caden reacts to his new baby brother.

[Sabriel]

JenniferH Glad that baby is growing well! Milkshakes, yummy!

Chimichanga Sorry you had a bad day yesterday. :( Your nursery looks great!

babylove Yay for the nursery being done soon!

Camdynlyn Good luck with your budget!

K&H's mommy Stay cool!

isaacsmommy Grant is so cute! He and Isaac look exactly alike! Thanks for posting your birth story.

mrstim Sorry about the swelling!

I had a couple of showers this weekend. My work shower was on Friday. We had lots of food! They made me a cloth diaper cake and all of the prefolds had cash inside! It was fun to unwrap the whole cake. There were also booties and toys hanging from the cake. It was very cute.

My MIL's friend threw us a shower yesterday. We played a couple of games and then had cake and opened presents. Baby girl got a lot of stuff. Most of it was clothes and blankets. She has a zillion clothes now! We did get a couple of useful things, including a second carseat base, a grooming kit, a health kit, a baby book and 2 changing pads and covers. My dad sent a gift too. It is a winnie the pooh blanket. My "lovey" growing up was a winnie the pooh blanket, so that was really really sweet of him. :)

My feet and ankles were SO swollen all day yesterday, and they seem to be headed that way today too. Until now, I have only been swelling a little in the evenings. Yuck!

My eye is feeling better. I went to the eye doctor and she said that it is just really inflammed/irritated. She said that it could be hormone related. :rolleyes: She gave me some lubricating drops and I have to go back next week to have it rechecked to make sure it is getting better.

Hope everyone has a good week! Will we have anymore babies?

ETA: I forgot to say that I also got a couple of Fuzzi Bunz at my second shower too! Fun!

[cocoa_femme]

Thanks to Jenny, Mel, UT Chick & K&H'sMommy for the compliments :).

Chimichanga - I really like your nursery - especially the bedding. Too cute.

MrsTim - sorry for all the swelling and modified bed rest.

Isaacsmommy - Grant is so cute (so is Isaac).

Sabriel - Yay, for multiple showers! I'm glad your eye is feeling better.


[mild vent]

Okay ladies, I know I shouldn't be complaining, but I am so ready to have this baby out. Not only do I really want to see my little guy, but my body is so sore. Not to mention my sleeping is getting progressively worse as each day goes by. Plus, I'm ready to have a couple of months away from work. I don't know if it's hormones or what, but everyone is riding my very last nerve. Ugh!

[/vent]

[ajlanden]

Sabriel-Yay for good showers! I hear you on the swelling! I was doing pretty well until this weekend. UGHHH!

JenniferH-Yay for icecream and milkshakes and double yay for great measurments!!! GOod news all around!

Chimichanga-I hope today is better. Tears are no fun, but sometime needy to release some tension. `hugs!~

UTChick-Oh, and note to self: No more reading stretch mark threads before bedtime. Talk about some nightmares
LOL!!! Those nightmares are my reality!

Summer-It is an awesome experience to know we 'grow' babies but what's even weirder (I was a little freaked out at first but then didn't have to worry about it because I'm having a girl) is that or bodies can grow a PENIS! Scary, huh?
That penis thought freaks me out daily...penises are such a mystery to me and I have one inside me! EEEEEEE!!

jessey-Hope you had a good dinner!!

I know I missed a bunch of people! I apologize!!

Budget-It is hard for me to remember back to babyhood...Here is what you have to think about.
Diapers...I think we buy a big economy box at Sams every month or so. Around $30-$40/month (It might be more for a newborn)--Add $25 for wipes
Water...More laundry, but personally it didn't affect our water bill too much $10-$15/month
Right now with the heat wave, I think that we will be concerned with our electricty bill. We will want to keep the house as cool as possible.
Formula (if b/f is not occuring)-Once we weaned completely we spent about $20-25/week on formula. This time we will use generic formula if we can.
Misc Expenses-I would probably figure at least $50-$75 a month here. No matter how much you get for your showers, there are always other things to get. New bottle nipples, BP parts, pacis...the list is endless. Also once we hit about 10-12 months, we pretty much had to buy a whole new waredrobe. WE recieved so many baby clothes, but people tend to forget how fast these kids grow. No one got us any bigger clothes.
Depressed yet?
(It amazed me how much the budget changes in such a short amount of time. Pretty soon, we will have be thinking about baby food/cereal/snacks.

Weekend: We traveled to Steamboat, CO for the night. It was only a 3 hour drive, but it is not fun traveling at almost 36 Weeks PG. My DD is getting so tempermental. The tantrums are CRAZY! :D If this is 19 months, I am so scared for 2 years old!--All this made for a cranky mommy. I was glad to be home.

Come out full term babies! We want to meet you!

[Camdynlyn]

Thanks Ashley for depressing me and my budget! :p

[UTChick]

babylove~ Can't wait to see pics of your nursery. Be sure to post them when you get it all finished.

JenniferH~ Glad to hear the baby is measuring well. And woohoo for milkshakes and ice cream as doctor's orders! :D

Sabriel~ Wow! Two showers in one weekend! I bet you made a haul!

ajlanden~ Thanks for the budget info. We tend to spend a lot on socializing, so maybe we can just use our entertainment $ on baby stuff since we won't be going out and doing as much as we used to. DH came home with diapers yesterday because he saw that they were on sale - he is learning! ;)


Ok...I just had a panic moment. I called our ins. company to check our coverage for the hospital stay and they told me that all I have to pay is $350 deductible, but I need to make sure that if we use an anethesiologist, he/she needs to be in network to be covered because out of network is only covered at 60%. So I went on the hospital's website and looked up the anethesiologists to compare to my ins. company's website to see who is in network. My hospital was not found on my ins. co. website. :eek: I started to panic thinking here I am just weeks from delivery and what if my hospital is not in network?!?! What would I do?!!? I called my ins. co. back and thank goodness my hospital is covered after all. It just wasn't coming up on the website for some reason. I think I thanked the lady 500 times, I was so relieved.

[ajlanden]

Thanks Ashley for depressing me and my budget! :p

I didn't even mention childcare cost!!!! (evil laugh!)---

Seriously...it will work out...at least that is what I am hoping. I was so scared adding one and it was fine. Somehow it all works. Let's hope I experience the same with #2.

[Chimichanga]

Kathy - I had the SAME thoughts for our insurance. I want to call and double check to see how long they cover for a c-section. Everything/one is covered by our insurance, so I don't have to worry - but now I'm going to double check :p

[jesseybell]

budget- We were trying to figure out over the weekend how we are going to manage with me only getting 60% of my pay for 6 weeks, full amount for 2 weeks (max) and 4 weeks unpaid. It is going to be pretty tight, though I wrote out checks for all the August bills and our credit cards are paid off, which is good.
But 2 bills are going to go up a lot while I am home: electricity and phone. Ever since we got a hi-def tv in March our electricity bill has been substantially higher, throw in a/c and it is out of control. Now add me home full time watching the tv and having the a/c on (hopefully that will just be for August), yikes! Plus making calls during the day which I don't normally do (to call DH and Mom during the day is long distance), it could get kind of ugly. I will try to use my cell phone during the day, but I can imagine our day-time minutes could easily get eaten up.

I definitely get more anxious by the day. Fear of the unknown is probably the biggest culprit. Knowning she could come today or 3 weeks from now (I can't imagine them making me got until August 14th - I will scream) and not knowing what labor is like makes me crazy.

Another reason for her to come soon - I made it about 38 weeks without any stretch marks on my stomach, only on my hips and light ones on my thighs. Light ones are now appearing on my stomach and I'll only get more as time goes on :(

[Abby'sMom]

I'm in hell.

It was 110 degrees yesterday and our a/c chose to break in the early-afternoon. So we're at the IL's house until we can fix it, which I AM NOT happy about. :( Oh, what fun....

[babylove]

Sherry ~ ********blowing cool air in your direction************

Jessie ~ I too have heard the horror stories of no stretch marks until the very end....I am very scared, especially b/c there are part of my belly that I can't even see right now so there are bound to be little ones lurking there!

Kathy ~ Will post pics for sure when it's finished! :)

Bree ~ You have every right to want the baby out now...you are only a week away from your EDD (which is my b-day, by the way!)

Cherish ~ Yay for showers! I'm glad you enjoyed yourself...but what are Fuzzy Bunz? Something to do with cloth diapering?

Jennifer ~ So glad that everything is ok w/ Baby Cohen!

[cocoa_femme]

Question...what are some ways to "induce" labor. I know sex is (or isn't) one of them. Anyone know of any others?

[ajlanden]

Getting desperate, Bree? :D

Here is the stuff that I tried...
Raspberry Red Leaf Tea--you can find at any health food store
Pineapple
Spicy Food
Walking

None of them worked for me last time, but I will try again.

I have also heard the castor oil works, but I am way to chicken to try that. I also heard it can cause bad intestinal "issues".

[cocoa_femme]

Getting desperate, Bree? :D
YES! How can you tell :p.

Another (possibly stupid) question for you ROs...what do contractions *feel* like? I'm afraid I'll start having them, and won't know it because I think it's something else.

[Chimichanga]

I'll second the pineapple - I've heard that works (but didn't for a friend of mine)
Italian food - pizza or pasta
Mexican food - as spicy as you can take it
walking

I'm going to avoid all of these (well, except walking) because I've already made my plans for this c-section and she better not come early now! :P

[ajlanden]

Obviously I don't want to work today...so I will just stay here and post after everyone else! :)

Contractions: I am really not a good person to ask. I went to the hospital last time to be induced and was having contractions and didn't even know it. BUT I do remember my contractions being concentrated in my back quite a bit. Like a dull pain in my back every couple minutes or so. This might be TMI but when I started having them I thought I needed to use the restroom every few minutes. Little did I know it was a contraction. This time I have a lot of contractions in my belly. It is like my whole belly tightens up.

I think they can really differ depending on the person and postition of the baby. If you are feeling anything different, you should start timing and see if that feeling is consistant.

I am no expert though...

[cocoa_femme]

Thanks, ladies! :)

[mrstim]

Hmmm....I didn't hear the one about Italian food!!

I had fresh pineapple Saturday night w/o thinking about it - nada. Anyone know how much you should eat? I only had 4 bites of it.

I've had pizza for the last 3 meals - last night for supper, this morning for breakfast, and just now for lunch. Yikes!

As for the mexican, i didn't do it, but I had hot wings last week - guess none of this works unless your cervix is ready, correct?


OH, btw, is it progress to be "softened" but not dilated/effaced? I'm curious. Baby is so low now that my lower back is in excruciating pain - not all the time, just when I move. As long as I sit here still, it just twinges every once in a while.

Contrax: I'm scared I won't know what they are either. My mom had NONE of hers in her belly - she was dilated to 8 with my sister and never felt more than back pain. :eek: I'm scared I'll be the same way - and with all this back pain, I'm afraid I'll totally miss it. Is it bad that I'm hoping my water breaks to signal labor so I'll know what's going on? My belly gets hard every so often, but I don't think much of it.

Oh and another question for RO's (esp. you Ash, since you're here today so often! ;) ) Everyone's telling me that before I go into labor the baby won't move for a while. Even my mom said that all her kids stopped moving for about 24 hours before she went into labor - I'd never heard of this, but what was your all's experience??

eta: 36w3d

[ajlanden]

Oh and another question for RO's (esp. you Ash, since you're here today so often! ) Everyone's telling me that before I go into labor the baby won't move for a while. Even my mom said that all her kids stopped moving for about 24 hours before she went into labor - I'd never heard of this, but what was your all's experience??

LOL! I don't have an answer for you since I was induced. Just had to post to continue procrastinating my editing that I was going to get done today. Ya right. I have heard that movement tends to slow down at the end. I didn't experience it.

(Just wanted to add that I think you will go into labor when you are ready. No amount of pineapple or spicy food will put someone in the labor. It might help things be a teensy bit more favorable, but that is it.)

[Camdynlyn]

There is an eggplant parmeasan recipe that is 'guaranteed' to put you into labor. I say that because the restaurant has a wall of mothers who went into labor within 48 hours of eating the meal. They've posted their recipe online. I'll probably try that one later on.

I've never heard italian foods but I love pastas and pizzas!
Never heard of pinapple but I don't like the stuff
I walk constantly and don't think I've dropped
Sex hurts too much right now and I bled afterwards last time (late last week). Hubby said we can take a break since it hurt so bad. Blah.
I'll try the Raspberry tea stuff too.

I'll wait to do all these things around 37 weeks and HOPEFULLY something will happen!!

[jennylou]

Oh and another question for RO's (esp. you Ash, since you're here today so often! ;) ) Everyone's telling me that before I go into labor the baby won't move for a while. Even my mom said that all her kids stopped moving for about 24 hours before she went into labor - I'd never heard of this, but what was your all's experience??



Hmmm, I've heard this as well. But, my water broke, so I didn't really experience this.

Our little one has been really sluggish all yesterday and today. In fact, I've had to do kick counts often, or I'd have run off to the hospital already.

Re: Stretchmarks - Ya'll (that don't have any yet) probably don't want to hear this, but my best friend didn't have any either - until AFTER she delivered. Seems shrinking down so quick was what got her.

[mrstim]

Thanks for all the opinions! I've been reading online thanks to a Google Search and the "experts" say that although the baby might slow down- you should still get some movement or you should head to the hospital asap. :D I am trying to cherish these movements as each day could be the last I feel them!

Stretchmarks: My belly is sadly COVERED with them already, so I'm not even worrying about them, since they're already there in abundance.

I need to get some ironing done - I'm off to the laundry room!

[bluhimmy]

Another (possibly stupid) question for you ROs...what do contractions *feel* like? I'm afraid I'll start having them, and won't know it because I think it's something else.

Not at all a stupid question! As a RO, I still don't really know. :rolleyes: I was induced with DS, so I never experience "going into labor." However, I had really bad contractions during the pushing stage, so I know what active labor is like. Unfortunately, my epideral wasn't working on me and kept wearing off, so if labor is like that from the start, I'm really scared. If I remember correctly, your stomach tightens and releases, like bad cramps.

[K&H's mommy]

Everyone's telling me that before I go into labor the baby won't move for a while. Even my mom said that all her kids stopped moving for about 24 hours before she went into labor - I'd never heard of this, but what was your all's experience??

Movement should decrease, but you should still get movement. Still do your kick counts and pay attention to how your baby is moving in there. Movement shouldn't STOP. If you don't feel your baby or notice a change, call your MD right away.

labor inducers - nothing worked for me with DD and I had to be induced at 42 weeks and I tried almost everything, LOL! BUT a warning about the castor oil... a girlfriend of mine tried that and literally right after she swigged it down labor started. Not because of the castor oil, just a big coincidence...and she said it was horrible because she had horrible explosive diarrhea throughout her ENTIRE labor, DURING the birth and afterwards. Not something I'm contemplating trying, LOL!!

Hope you are all keeping cool. It was 113 here yesterday and I was one whiney PG woman everytime I went outside...LOL!

[Chimichanga]

I've heard doctors strongly urge you NOT to take castor oil...blah either way!

Just got back from our dr appt - everything is good. The NST took about 45 minutes because she was a booger, but the doc was running on time. We did get our questions answered about the c/s, so I feel a bit better about that.

Is anyone else just exhausted? I wake up and I'm tired (and I'm getting good sleep - solid sleep with the exception of potty breaks), I'm exhausted at work, exhausted when I get home. Exhausted all the time EXCEPT when I lie down to sleep. I almost fell asleep during my NST today :eek:

[duke's flygirl]

Hi Ladies!

Sorry I don't have time to do SO's I had 4 pages of posts at 30 posts a page to catch up on in here! WOW!

I'm still around, and still pregnant! My BFF was here for the past 5 days, and I have been spending a ton of time with her since she lives in Montreal, and a 2 hour plane ride away. She is also Little Man's Godmother. We had an awesome visit, but I won't bore you with the details.

I have my appointment tomorrow so I will be back with details then.

Hope everyone has a good Tuesday.

[amyinlosangeles]

Sorry I haven't been posting much - I am getting about 3-4 hours of sleep on a good night and it hurts just to walk around my house. I am officially miserable! I'm reading everyone's posts everyday, it's just hard to keep up. Hope everyone's staying as cool as possible. :)

[UTChick]

I need to go to bed, so no time for proper SOs, but thought I would update on my appt today. Baby's head has descended, I'm 30% effaced, but cervix still closed up tight. They did a GBS test and I should have the results next week when I go in for my u/s. Dr. is very pleased with where I am and said he could not ask for a better pregnancy for me. That was nice to hear.

[Chimichanga]

Had my appointment last night and things are going well. She's still overall pleased with my sugars, but we had to bump up my morning insulin.

DH and I got some details about the c/s. I have to get there two hours early :eek: and it should only take about 40 minutes (at max) for the surgery. She said all of my questions were pretty straight forward and she was happy I was asking them.

At this time, she isn't sure where she's going to cut me. I have some extra flab in the front and if she does a bikini cut, it would be difficult to keep the area clean and dry due to my pouch. So, she might just cut me right in the middle of the pouch. She said it won't be the most cosmetically beautiful thing, but she wants to do what's best for me. Makes sense. We'll have to see what she decides.

[Sabriel]

Chimichanga and UTChick Glad things are continuing to go well!

amyinglosangeles Hope you are able to get more sleep tonight!

duke's flygirl Glad you have a good time with your BFF!

exhaustion Not really, most of the time I feel pretty good considering.

movement She has slowed down some, but I still feel her enough not to worry.

stretchmarks Yuck, I am getting them around my belly button. My belly was strethmark free until a week or so ago. Oh well.

I can't believe that I am full term next week! This pregnancy seems to have flown by so fast. I have enjoyed it, but I am now anxious to meet her. I keep telling this little girl to wait until next week and then she can come out anytime! LOL I have a mw appointment on Thursday and will have my GBS test then. I am still having tons of BHs, but then I have been for at least 10 weeks so that doesn't mean anything. I am also having menstral-like cramps in the evenings for the past few days. I hope something is happening!

[jennylou]

Had my appointment last night and things are going well. She's still overall pleased with my sugars, but we had to bump up my morning insulin.

DH and I got some details about the c/s. I have to get there two hours early :eek: and it should only take about 40 minutes (at max) for the surgery. She said all of my questions were pretty straight forward and she was happy I was asking them.

At this time, she isn't sure where she's going to cut me. I have some extra flab in the front and if she does a bikini cut, it would be difficult to keep the area clean and dry due to my pouch. So, she might just cut me right in the middle of the pouch. She said it won't be the most cosmetically beautiful thing, but she wants to do what's best for me. Makes sense. We'll have to see what she decides.

My cut was a bikini cut. Honestly, I'm glad it was there as I don't have to see it all the time. :p Sure, I had to clean it, perhaps even a bit more than if it had been higher, but I didn't mind. Also, they have to cut through nerves and such, so if it's higher, you're going to be able to feel that pain of the nerves reconnecting higher -which might make things like exercise more difficult (particularly ab work). And, I still feel the nerves once in a while, so it's not something that goes away really quick.

Is she going to staple you or stitch you? I was stitched and honestly, from reading around on it, I'm glad that I was. It takes longer to close, but I have a nice, even scar. Some people that I've talked to (online) had staples and said that they have more of a train track scar line, with little indents where the staples were. Also, if you're stapled, you have to go back in two weeks and have the staples removed. If you're sewn, you go back at 6 weeks. Just something else to think about.

[Chimichanga]

Jennylou - thanks for the input. I believe I will be stitched but it's one of those where the stitches disappear so I won't have to go back to have anything removed. At least, that's what I remember them saying back at the birthing class. I am guessing it might be a game day decision of what type of cut she'll do, but I'll try to find out.

[ajlanden]

Sabriel-Sound like we are on the same "schedule". I have my appointment and GBS test on Thrusday too. Hopefully we can get these little ones moving next week!

Chimichanga-I don't know much about c/s cuts. I hope that it works out whatever she decided. It sound like she has been thinking a lot about it.

UTChick-Yay for a great appointment!!!

amy-Sorry you are feeling miserable. It is almost over...HANG ON!

Joelle-I am glad you had a good time! I've missed you!

K&H's mommy-I've heard that about castor oil too. Ummmm....if there is even a chance of that happening, NO WAY!

jenny-Is your little one still head up?

Summer-I want that recipe!! Not only because it is "guaranteed", but it sounds so good right now!

Stretchmarks-Umm ya, lots of them. I didn't get any until the last couple weeks with DD. This time I have more. Oh well, I will never be a bikini mom. No big whoop.

So I was having some pretty consistant and fairly painful contractions last night. They were about 7-8 minutes apart. They lasted for a couple hours until I went to bed. I figured if they were the real thing, they would wake me up. They didn't. I really would like to hang on until next week when I hit that 37 week mark. Only time will tell...

I will get some work done...I will get some work done (chanting to myself!)

[jesseybell]

Absolutely nothing going on here still - no cramps, no contractions. I was worried yesterday about her movement but she got moving in the evening like normal.
If I don't go into labor in the next 24 hours, I'd prefer to not until next Monday/Tuesday.

Why is it that all the exciting work at work is coming up now? Work I actually want to be doing instead of boring, monotonous work. But I still can't wait to be out for 12 weeks! I have to call our short-term disability provider on Friday to give them an "update" (ie tell them I am still here).

Dr appt tomorrow at 1:00. I had a weird dream last night that I went and I had high blood pressure - Martin Short was my doctor (very bizarre!) and everyone was paniking about my blood pressure, yet they kept telling me to relax to bring it down, instead of sending me to the hospital to induce.

[isaacsmommy]

Quick post (sorry no SOs :o ) while Grant is nursing.

Things are going well here, recovery has been a bit harder this time, but still not bad. I haven't taken pain meds in a few days and am getting around pretty much like normal, trying not to overdo it though.

Grant is still on the bili lights:( , but today will most likely be the last day if he continues to drop his levels like he has in the last few days. Just waiting on the nurse to call with his results.

C/S cut Mine is a bikini cut (actually its about 2 inches into my pubic hair sorry if TMI). I was glad thats how it was done because if i ever get brave enough (not likely though) to wear a bikini it definatley won't show. I also had dissolvable stitches. My dr acted like staples were rarely done anymore, however from reading things on boards I think it can be somewhat regional.

In other c/s info (for those who are curious), I will say that honestly the worst part of recovery is getting up the first couple times. My best advice is to make sure you have had pain meds recently before you try to get up. The c/s itself is really not hard at all, the worst part for me (which didn't happen the first time) was getting nauseated when my bp would drop from the anesthesia.
Stretch Marks Sadly I have some on my belly this time right underneath my belly button. Last time I didn't get any new ones (had a bunch from pueberty) until after delivery, so yes if you have managed to avoid them so far keep praying they still have time to rear their ugly heads. The very vain part of me says well at least the ones on my belly are below my navel and if I ever get a tummy tuck they will be removed. However, I really dobt I'll ever get a tummy tuck :rolleyes:

[jesseybell]

I am in a very weird place right now. Reading the July Mommies thread, where most of them have had their babies,and are discussing things that seem just out of this world to me. Nothing I don't know or have learned in the baby classes (which seem so far away right now), but it is just so weird to think that this could be me any day now! All of a sudden I feel completely unprepared!!! I know I will do fine....the waiting is just killing me. Its not so much now that I am uncomfortable - the last couple of days haven't been so bad, except at night (partially due to the fact that I am super busy at work so really haven't been getting up to move around, plus no time to think about baby unless someone comes over and says 'You're still here?'). I am just now dieing to meet our baby!!!

[Camdynlyn]

I was outside tonight picking some weeds and my neighbors SIL and MIL walked by (they live down the street). I saw both of them last night and today, they said, "YOU'VE DROPPED!" I said I thought I felt her lower today but wasn't sure. Funny.

[Camdynlyn]

Here's the recipe for the dish that is supposed to 'bring on labor.' Enjoy! :)

Ingredients


3 medium sized eggplants
1 cup flour
6 eggs, beaten
4 cups fine Italian bread crumbs, seasoned
Olive oil for sauteing
8 cups of marinara sauce (recipe below)
1/2 cup grated Romano cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 pounds of mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 cups of ricotta cheese

Directions

1. After you wash the eggplant, slice them into 1/4-inch thick slices. You may choose to peel the eggplant before you slice it. However, you may want to leave the skin on since it contains a lot of vitamins.

2. Place the eggplant slices on a layer of paper towels and sprinkle with a little salt, then cover with another layer of paper towels and hold it down with something heavy to drain the excess moisture. Let them sit for about an hour.

3. Working with one slice of eggplant at a time, dust with flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat well with breadcrumbs.

4. Saute in preheated olive oil on both sides until golden brown.

5. In baking dish, alternate layers of marinara sauce, eggplant slices, ricotta, parmesan and Romano cheeses, until you fill the baking dish, about 1/8 inch from the top. Cover with shredded mozzarella cheese, and bake for 25 minutes in a 375 degree oven. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Scalini's Marinara Sauce

Ingredients

2 Tablespoons of chopped garlic
3 Tablespoons of olive oil
8 cups chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
1 cup onions, chopped
1/2 cup of fresh chopped parsley
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper
1/8 cup of fresh chopped sweet basil
Pinch of thyme
Pinch of rosemary
One teaspoon salt
One teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Lightly saute the onions in olive oil in large pot for a few minutes.

2. Add garlic and saute another minute.

3. Add tomatoes and bring sauce to a boil, then turn heat low.

4. Add remaining ingredients, stir, cover and let simmer for one hour, stirring occasionally.

Source: http://www.wchstv.com/gmarecipes/eggplantparmigian.shtml

[Camdynlyn]

Here's the recipe for the dish that is supposed to 'bring on labor.' Enjoy! :)

Ingredients


3 medium sized eggplants
1 cup flour
6 eggs, beaten
4 cups fine Italian bread crumbs, seasoned
Olive oil for sauteing
8 cups of marinara sauce (recipe below)
1/2 cup grated Romano cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 pounds of mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 cups of ricotta cheese

Directions

1. After you wash the eggplant, slice them into 1/4-inch thick slices. You may choose to peel the eggplant before you slice it. However, you may want to leave the skin on since it contains a lot of vitamins.

2. Place the eggplant slices on a layer of paper towels and sprinkle with a little salt, then cover with another layer of paper towels and hold it down with something heavy to drain the excess moisture. Let them sit for about an hour.

3. Working with one slice of eggplant at a time, dust with flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat well with breadcrumbs.

4. Saute in preheated olive oil on both sides until golden brown.

5. In baking dish, alternate layers of marinara sauce, eggplant slices, ricotta, parmesan and Romano cheeses, until you fill the baking dish, about 1/8 inch from the top. Cover with shredded mozzarella cheese, and bake for 25 minutes in a 375 degree oven. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Scalini's Marinara Sauce

Ingredients

2 Tablespoons of chopped garlic
3 Tablespoons of olive oil
8 cups chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
1 cup onions, chopped
1/2 cup of fresh chopped parsley
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper
1/8 cup of fresh chopped sweet basil
Pinch of thyme
Pinch of rosemary
One teaspoon salt
One teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Lightly saute the onions in olive oil in large pot for a few minutes.

2. Add garlic and saute another minute.

3. Add tomatoes and bring sauce to a boil, then turn heat low.

4. Add remaining ingredients, stir, cover and let simmer for one hour, stirring occasionally.

Source: http://www.wchstv.com/gmarecipes/eggplantparmigian.shtml

[Sabriel]

Camdynlyn Yay for dropping!

jesseybell I am feeling the same way. You'll be meeting your little girl soon! Hope your appointment goes well today!

isaacsmommy I hope Grant gets off the bili lights soon!

ajlanden Hope your appointment goes well tomorrow!

My swelling has gotten much worse. My feet and ankles are swollen all day now. By the end of the day, my ankles are gigantic!

[jesseybell]

Now I am jealous! A co-worker's wife was due this Sunday. She had an appt last evening, started contracting at the doctor's office (not sure if the dr stripped her membranes or not), contractions weren't strong until 4:30 am, went to the hospital at 5:30 am, had the baby at 6:30 am. Granted, this is her second child in the last 54 weeks, but still! I want my baby!!!

[/minor vent]
We are going to Florida in December and DH keeps checking out flights....like daily. I keep telling him we aren't going to buy the tickets until she is born, even though the prices keep going up. Every day (it seems like) he gives me an update. He just doesn't get it! I can't think beyond the next day these days. Sure I am excited about Florida, I am excited about a lot of things coming up in the future, but I can't even think about anything else right now. Not that I am obsessing about the baby (that could make for a very long few weeks) but right now the here and now, the today, is my focus.

[cocoa_femme]

I can't believe I'm 39 weeks and this baby apparently has no intention of showing up any time soon. On the flip side, my doc is out of town this weekend, so I really hope he comes before Friday, or after Sunday. When I went to my appointment yesterday, she seemed pretty confident that she would see me next week (on my actual due date) for my next appointment. She thinks I'll go a few days after.

Ugh! I am so uncomfortable right now. My hips hurt, and I'm seriously (quality) sleep deprived.

Hope you ladies are doing well :).

[Chimichanga]

jesseybell - I think sometimes hubbies just forget. They are so single minded at times that when something catches their attention they can't forget it. This is why my DH always suggests having a deli sandwich for lunch to me...after I've REPEATEDLY told him I don't want to eat lunch meat during the pregnancy. :rolleyes: Maybe give him a swift kick and he'll stop ;)

This week is draaaaaaaaaging by for me! I can't believe it's only Wednesday! Thank goodness I work from home tomorrow. I can get stuff done early and then futz around if I want to (and be in comfortable clothes). Friday is going to be the absolute longest day ever. Well, maybe second longest day - the Thursday before the c/s will be the longest day ever.

[Sabriel]

what are Fuzzy Bunz? Something to do with cloth diapering?

I forgot to answer you! Yep, Fuzzi Bunz are cloth diapers: http://www.fuzzibunz.com

Chimichanga Sorry that time is dragging!

cocoa_femme You never know, that baby could come at anytime!

jesseybell Sorry that you DH is focusing on FL right now. Mine gets the same way. When our dryer broke last month he could not stop fixating a new dryer, but it just wasn't going to happen!

[duke's flygirl]

Hello Ladies!

SO's First:

AnyinLA: Sorry you aren't getting good sleep. I hope you are able to sleep a bit better soon.

Kathy: Glad you had a good appointment the other day!

Jen: Glad you were able to get more information on how your doc will do the c-section. I have a bikini cut and that is where they will be doing this next one, on the same line I think. I did have staples and I don't have the scaring of train tracks. My staples were removed BEFORE I left the hospital, but we were in for 5 days, I think they were removed on day 3 though. I know I will be in the hospital for 3 days AFTER the c-section, so not including the day of. I think my recovery last time was hard due to my long labour, and 3.5 hours of pushing to get 1/4 of an inch of movement from R. I have been told that the c-section recovery after a scheduled one is much easier. I really hope that is the case for us!

Sorry your week is dragging, I hope it speeds up for you soon!

Cherish: Some days I think that the pregnancy has flown by, and others it seems to have dragged on! Glad you aren't too tired! That is fabulous! Sorry to hear about the swelling! UGH!

Jenny: I was stapled, but I don't have the traintrack scaring. My staples were removed before we left the hospital.

Ashley: Thanks, you are a sweetie! Sorry about the contractions!

Jessie: Sorry that you don't feel like anything is going on yet, but that can all change in an instant! Sending you labour vibes!

Sorry your DH is focused on FL in DEC right now, did you tell him that you can't book the tickets until AFTER you have the baby so that you can give her information too? MEN! My DH is so focused on the grass...silly boy!

Jennifer: I hope that Grant is off the bili lights/blanket soon! Sorry to hear that your recovery is harder this time around. Did you deliever naturally last time? I think you are right about the staples/stiches being regional. I had staples, and I didn't have any trouble with my scar.

Summer: Thanks for the recipes! Also yeah for dropping!

Bree: YAY for 39 weeks! I hope you are able to get some GOOD quality sleep soon! Sorry you are so uncomfortable.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I had my appointment yesterday and my DH was able to come, his first for this pregnancy!

Stats:
BP: 112/70
Fetal HR: 136
Fundal Height: 36 weeks
Weight gain: 3lbs since last week at the other doctor’s office.

She estimates that he is about 7lbs now. She also thinks he is head down with his hands up by his ears so that could be why I am uncomfortable and feeling crampy a lot!

She is really excited to meet him, so the next time I see her will be in the OR the day I have him!

My next appointment is 1 August with the OB, hopefully my DH can come to that one as it is the one with all the paperwork, and stuff.

Other than that, I'm feeling pretty good in general. I am enjoying the last couple of days with my DD, and trying to get things ready.

I am now well on my way to having my hospital bag packed just need to add in some of the last minute stuff the morning we head to the hospital. I have Little Man's all packed now. I almost put in a girly outfit JUST IN CASE, but my mom and DH will be home every night, so they can pick something out if that is the case. We also have a girls name on stand-by too. Is that crazy?

I have 8 more sleeps until my c-section! EEK!

I hope you are all having a good day!

Joelle

[jennylou]

Eggplant to start labor? (http://www.christian-mommies.com/ages/in-the-womb/natural-labor-induction-methods-will-castor-oil-or-eggplant-start-labor/) This article explains that it might not be the eggplant, but rather the spices.

joelle/b] - Interesting, that they removed them so quick. Maybe the difference is practicioner based, or geographically based? I'm on the ICAN list and I've seen talks of these train tracks often. And, with anything else online I've found that there are vast differences in care based upon location. At any rate, these are all definitely things that [b]everyone should be asking their Dr about afterall, at least in the US, the c/s rate is around 30%, so there's a likelyhood that even those that don't want one will end up with one.

[Chimichanga]

Re: Fuzzi Bunz - there's a website for "damaged or irregular" Fuzzi Bunz - www.fuzzibunzseconds.com I believe (there's a link in the CD thread).

Are any other mommies CDing? We're going to try - we just got some Snappi's and Proraps in the mail yesterday - I'm excited!! :D

[duke's flygirl]

Jenny: It is very interesting about the stats and the differences for sure! But you are right, it is a VERY good thing to be talking to your doctor about! I'm not sure what the rate is here for c-sections, but I know it is high too.

Jen: We aren't CDing, but there are some really cute ones out there!

My munchkin is yelling at me to "HELP!" she just woke up from her nap! Later...

[cocoa_femme]

Very interesting thread I found...

Were You Surprised By Labor Or Were There Warning Signs (http://www.constantchatter.com/showthread.php?t=1396)

[mrstim]

Shew, according to that thread it could be any day now! ;) Seriously - I wonder if the False Pregnancy Symptoms we always felt while TTC'ing are going to turn into False Labor Symptoms.

This morning I was peeing at about 3:30 for the fourth time through the night (which by the way is getting irritating b/c it's never more than a couple of T. of pee, and feels like I'm going to BURST!) But anyway, I was checking the TP to see if it had any bloody stuff on it - I bust out laughing there in the darkened bathroom, thinking "you know, I used to do this months ago when I first found out that I was pregnant, and now here I am AGAIN! Guess we're all on Potty Patrol these days!

So excited for you that are so close to birth!

I'm still having irregular contractions - at best one hits every couple of hours, but never in a pattern, and they're pretty much all the same pain wise. I can honestly say I've joined the pelvic pain club - it's EXCRUCIATING!!! This kid must be hanging out SO SO SO low. Thank god for DH and hot showers/baths - he's a great massager! If I hear that my cervix is still thick and closed, I'll probably kick the doctor, the one thing that gets me through all this pain is the thought that it's "probably making things move down there!"

Our A/C compressor in our car went out - it's gonna be a sweet $700 to fix, plus that'll leave me at home w/o a car at night for a couple of days - :eek:

I'm definitly nesting today - I'm freaking out about lots of things in this house, gotta go get some of it done while remembering I'm technically on modified bedrest. I do things for 10 minutes, sit for 5-10 minutes, jump up and work, sit down and rest, etc. It's a total vicious cycle! Oh well.....

Gotta run!

A

(36w4d)

[Abby'sMom]

I just figured I'd drop in for a sec to say I'm still here. Apparently despite all of my pre-term issues, cancelled plans, bedrest, etc., this kiddo is perfectly happy inside. :rolleyes: Figures!

I'm having the week from hell. I won't bother with the details, but if you're someone who prays, please keep us in mind. Otherwise, I may just lose it.

[mrstim]

Oh Abby's Mom - HUGS!!! to you! So sorry you are going through so much, whatever it may be! Try not to stress out too much and hurt yourself and/or the baby! (prayers and hugs!)

[jesseybell]

Just got back to work from the doctors.

I seemed to have gained 7 lbs since last week (and same scale!) but they didn't say anything about it - I am not worried about it either - I ate salty food last night and haven't been good about taking my colace so I wasn't surprised.

I am still at 2 cm :( Not surprising. I am now 75% effaced and -1 station (though I think he was being nice in saying that). My cervix is "ripening" perfectly. He said he would be very surprised if I went before my next appointment (which is Tuesday the 1st). He also scheduled an u/s before the appt just to try to get some sense of her size. He was the dr that 2 weeks ago was estimating 7.5-8lbs at that time. He didn't estimate today, but did say that he didn't think I was having an "enormous" baby. He said that they don't schedule a c-section for a large baby unless they think the baby is 11 lbs or bigger.

We also discussed the fact that I think that my due date is later than July 31st (I know, sounds crazy). I just don't want them to start talking about inducing too quickly. He said that I would have an appointment next week and then one a week later and if I hadn't had the baby by around August 8th (what I think my due date is) then they'd probably start talking induction (unless the u/s shows that they should induce earlier).

I e-mailed my coworker whose wife had a baby this morning to see how dilated she was at her apt last night - I know it doesn't mean anything in terms of me, but I thought it would be interesting to know.

[isaacsmommy]

Abby'sMom- Sorry things are going so rough. :( I will definately be sending good vibes your way.

Mrstim- Sorry about the a/c. Nothing like an unexpected bill to throw you for a loop.

Dukesflygirl- I had a c/s last time too after 22 hrs of labor.

cocoa_femme- interesting thread, unfortunatley after two kids I never went into labor on my own so I can't say if I experienced any of those things or not.

Chimichanga- I'm a cd momma. However, I won't start with this one till hes a bit bigger. I found with Isaac that for me personally it wasn't worth cd'ing as a newborn since they outgrow them so quickly and have to be changed soooooo often. I looovvvve fuzzi bunz, however I have used proaps, snappis, and prefolds, as well as bumkins, litewraps, kushies, bummis, happy heinys, and wondroos. Can you tell I was a cd'ing junkie for a bit??:p

Jennylou Yes, unfortunatley the c/s rate is very high. I really wished I had never had one and would have vbaced this time if for 1. didn't have to be delivered early and 2. didn't need to go to a certian hospital that doesn't do vbacs.

Grant is finally off the bili lights as of this afternoon. Yippee:D ! I got brave yesterday and weighed myself again. I am sooooo happy that I have already lost 31 lbs. :eek: Only about 9 lbs to go to pre-preg weight, of course I need to lose more than that to be down to my desired weight.

[babylove]

We have a nursery!! The furniture was delivered today and I love it so much!! I just want to camp out in that room :) The only bad thing was that the mattress was damaged so back it went. I'll get a new one on Saturday. Pics in my LJ if anyone is interested. I'm not going to post them in the nursery thread until it's totally finished. Right now, it's a work in progress ;) My mom is coming over tonight to do some baby laundry and start setting up the nursery....so exciting!!! Umm...guys...I'm having a baby! :D How surreal?!

***

lazy attempt at SOs...

Joelle ~I can't believe how close you are!!

Jen ~ Not CDing but that website is great!

Amy ~ Bummer about your car :( I hope you've made some progress by your next appt!

Sherry ~ You know I'm thinking about you!!

Jessie ~ Sorry you haven't progressed any more...are you doing anything to try to bring on labor or just letting nature take its course?

Jenn ~ I'm so glad that Grant is off the bili lights! Yay! Down 31 lbs already?! :eek: You're my hero!!!

[duke's flygirl]

Bree: Interesting Thread...I went into labour with DD, but I was already at the hospital for High Blood Pressure, and I am GBS positive, so I had to have pitocin and antibiotics, then I laboured for 18+hours, with 3.5 hours of pushing for 1/4 of an inch of movement, then a failed vacuum attempt and a c-section. BUT I am the exception.

Amy: Sorry to hear about the car. An unexpected expense is no fun at all.

Sherry: You know I'm thinking about you! HUGS girl!

Jessie: Glad the appointment went fairly well. You get another u/s to see your little girl! AND that you talked to your doc about your feelings that your due date is later.

Jennifer: I had been told that the recovery for most with a scheduled C-section is easier, but I will keep the fact that yours hasn't been in mind. I hope it gets better quickly. YAY for Grant getting off the bili lights! AND for your weight loss! I only hope mine goes away that quickly again this time!

Tracee: On my way to LJ to check out the nursery!

Hope you are all having a good evening. DH is helping a friend with some gravel, and I just got R to bed, so I think I will catch up here, and then get my hospital bag finished and go to bed and read!

DH is now off until next Wednesday, he works that day, and then will be off with me for a while! I'm so excited!

Take Care!

[K&H's mommy]

sherry are you still at your ILs house? That would be enough to pull my hair out, strand by strand... hopefully your a/c is working soon. Thinking of you!!

I can't believe we haven't had anymore babies!! Has everyone been regularly checking in?? My last day of work is on Sunday so that is nice... It's still horribly hot here, I think it's the 10th or 11th straight day over 100. It's 108 right now. I'm SOOO over it!

I'd love it if those of you with nursery pictures can post some pictures! I promise to reciprocate once we are in the house and this little girl has a room to show off ;)

[isaacsmommy]

Just a quick post because I didn't want any of you scheduled c/s mommas to worry. My recovery has been a more painful this time, but I should clarify a bit I guess. My first c/s I will say I had what is probably an exceptionally fast recovery I felt fine with no pain within a few days. When in I went home I never needed pain meds and went back to school about a week and a half later (and cheated and drove msyslef). This time I still didn't take that long to feel pretty good, (by day 5 or 6) and now 9 days pp I feel pretty much normal.

[jennylou]

So, after all the egglpant talk, my DH decided that we needed to eat at the Olive Garden tonight. So, I went ahead and had the eggplant. It was really good and I wouldn't hesitate to eat it again - probably one of the easiest at home induction "techniques" (and I use that term loosely) you can try.

[Camdynlyn]

Jenny: Glad to know the eggplant was good. It's good for you, too, which makes it even better! :)

[Chimichanga]

I thought I was about to go into labor yesterday! OMG I was so uncomfortable.

I left work aroud 2 because I didn't feel well. There is a bug going around work and I definitely did NOT want to catch it. When I got home DH and I ran a few errands together. About halfway through I just got so tired and uncomfortable. He insisted we go to Menards and look around for a different quilt clip option.

Well, he's the type to "dink around" stores like that. He likes to look at things and meander. It annoys me normally and was really pissing me off yesterday. Plus, when he decides to go to an area of the store - he walks at like lightening speed and I can't keep up. So, I'm waddling around the store when my back is KILLING me and I am having pains in my left side. It was like a 10 minute contraction. He said "well, we'll go now." I refused and said if we spent 20 minutes in this stupid store for nothing I was going to be even more mad. We did end up (finally) buying what we were looking at and left.

I took a 2 hour nap when we got home and felt much better. I also drank a huge glass of water. It might have been a combination of tiredness and slight dehydration (we've got super humid weather right now). But oh my goodness - I thought something was going to happen yesterday!

[Camdynlyn]

I've got a couple questions that have popped up in my mind recently:

What type of waterproof pads do I need for me on my bed? I've got white sheets and a mattress pad but what else do I need?

If you have started a savings/college plan for your child, please tell me about it. We are looking at 529s and just a regular savings account through the bank (I never had anything like this so I'm absolutely clueless). My grandmother would like to give us some money (about $400) to start it off. Any suggestions?

**
Last night, I had the most real dream yet. I dreamt I had Bean at 8:55pm and she was 9lbs. 10.5 ozs. For some reason, I don't remember the birth and I was up and running around afterwards (doing Yoga) and she wouldn't breastfeed. Yikes! She was beautiful, though, with really full lips and little to no blonde hair. My hubby was no where to be found and my mom popped in for a second afterwards before going out to eat! :( haha.

[JenniferH]

Not much time for SO's but here's a few.

Camdynlyn ~ My uncle is a financial advisor and he set my DS up with a 529. Not really sure why. He set up my IL's kids with a 529 for one and a Roth IRA for the younger one. Not sure why. I would try to contact a financial advisor to help you out. A lot of them will offer there services for free. Let me know if you want my uncle's info and I will PM it to you.

Chimi ~ That sounds like a terrible way to spend the day.

Jenny ~ Glad the eggplant was good.

K&H Mommy ~ I would love to see the nursery pics too!

Isaacsmommy ~ Glad everything is going well!


Doctor's appointment went well today. Had a good weight gain so the doctor was happy. This time the baby is measuring right on target so no more increase in calories. Next appointments are Aug 10, Aug 17 and Aug 24. Four days after my last appointment is my C/S. Can't believe only 3 more appointment!

[Chimichanga]

Summer - my parents are going to set up a 529 for the baby once she's born. They go through Edward Jones for that type of thing, but DH and I use Modern Woodman. There are plenty of places out there where you can set up an account and they will do it for free (but they'll try to get you on other services as well). Another option could be savings bonds. My grandpa had gotten them for me and my cousins from birth until we graduated HS. He meant them for college and several did mature around that time.

Waterproofing our bed - okay, don't laugh - we still have some of those puppy training pads (where the puppy learns to go on the pad instead of the carpet). I'm probably going to use those. My mom will use them on her heavy flow nights just to be safe. She said they work fine. :o

[Sabriel]

JenniferH Glad your appointment went well!

Camdynlyn How neat that you had a dream about your little girl.

Chimichanga Sorry that you had a bad day yesterday.

jennylou Glad you liked the eggplant!

K&H's mommy Hope you can stay cool!

duke's flygirl Yay for DH getting to be home with you!

babylove Glad your nursery is coming together!

College fund I don't know much about this, but DH's uncle is a financial advisor. He told us that if you have an IRA for retirement you can use the money to send a child to college with no penalties. So that's probably what we will do.

Waterproof mattress pad We actually already have a waterproof sheet on our mattress, because one of our dogs used to have a problem with wetting the bed.

I had an appointment with my midwife today. Everything is looking good! Here are the highlights:

bp: 110/68
weight: gained 3 pounds in 3 weeks, up 32 pounds total
baby's heartrate: 150's
I am measuring 36 weeks.
Had GBS swab taken, I will know the results next week.
Baby is still head down!
They are guessing her to be 7 1/2 pounds already!

I still have this stupid yeast infection under my bbs, so she gave me a prescription cream for it. Hopefully, that will help! I go back to see her next Thursday.

[jesseybell]

I felt like crap yesterday afternoon - I actually made DH leave work an hour early. But not labor crappy. Dizzy and really hot. But I felt better after eating (it was weird I felt so bad because I ate lunch really late).

We are doing nothing right now to induce labor. My parents are leaving tomorrow morning for the weekend and I'd rather not go into labor while they are gone (they won't be very accessible) but they'll only be 3-4 hours away.

So I'll wait for my Tuesday appointment and then after that I may do more to get things going. Also I think next week I am going to start working from home more - even though DH works with me, I want to be home where I think I would be more apt to walk around and use the ball (and take naps) versus at work where I just sit in my cube which is 100 degrees.

stripping membranes?- My co-worker's wife had it done and she went into labor immediately (which I know isn't always the case). Does anyone know under what circumstances they will or will not do it, and what the pros and cons are?

[Camdynlyn]

I've been having some small contractions (just enough for me to feel them but not hard). Blah.

[jennylou]

stripping membranes - I'd really, really recommend that you be progressing some before having this done. I was dialated to 2cm last time and had it done at 39w4d. My water sprung a leak that same evening (but I didn't really realize it at the time, it was a very slow trickle). The next morning when I woke up my water had busted (there was NO mistaking that!). When I got to the L&D floor the nurse told me I was barely at 1 cm dialated. Huh? Anyways, my whole point is that if you've been progressing, it's probably a good thing, I just won't have it done again unless I'm seeing some real progress. That's because the outcome for me was that I failed to progress past 4 cm and when I finally consented to an epi (they said it would help relax me) Andrew started having heart rate problems. And that prompted a section.

[UTChick]

babylove~ Oooo, I want to see nursery pics, too!

isaacsmommy~ Man, I hope the weight drops off me like it has for you. That is great! Glad to hear everything is going well with Grant.

Summer~ We are planning on doing a 529, but to be honest, I haven't done a lot of research on it yet. It is on my to-do list but I just haven't gotten to it.

Abby's Mom~ Hope things get better. I'm thinking of you.

Joelle~ Enjoy your last few days! Sounds like you are pretty much ready to go!

Chimichanga~ Sorry you felt so bad yesterday. Hope today is better. Take it easy.



DH is out of town for his annual Fantasy Football draft weekend with the guys. His flight left yesterday afternoon at 3:30 and he has called me 7 times since! He keeps checking in to make sure "everything is ok." It is pretty funny. When I took him to the airport he told me that if anything happens to call him and he will be on a plane right back home. He almost didn't want to go but I told him to since I am nowhere close to having this baby and besides, we paid for this trip months ago - it would be a waste of money.

Question:
Is anyone else's appetite decreasing? Nothing sounds good to me anymore. I'm not hungry and at times I feel like I have to force myself to eat. This just started a few days ago. Normally while I am eating one meal, I am thinking about the next so this is really weird for me. Just curious to see if I am the only one.

[jesseybell]

appetite - Mine has definately been fluctuating. When I lost 4 lbs last week I wasn't surprised. But last night I was starving and ate like a champ. But for the most part, it has decreased, but it is also due somewhat to a return of morning sickness (not physically getting sick but feeling sick).

UTChick - Your husband does his draft early! And he travels for it! That sounds like a fun time for them. Usually DH's is on the evening of Labor Day Monday (they used to want to do it Sunday of Labor Day!) but they all just use the internet and phones to do it all. He's in a league this year that he hates and will probably start his own next year - I told him he wasn't allowed to be the commissioner of a league this year because he'll be too busy :)

[ajlanden]

I am freaking exhausted and grumpy today. Trying to snap out of it....

S/O!!
UTChick-LOL on your DH! Thank goodness for cell phones, right? Hopefully he is still able to have some fun!

Summer-Small contractions! Hopefully your body is starting to get ready!

jessey-I hope you make it through the weekend! Working at home sounds like a great idea....more naps!

Cherish-Yay for a good appointment!! I take it they didn't check you for any "progress"? Sending you GBS negative vibes!

Chimichanga-Puppy training pads? That is a great idea!!--I hate when those contractions fool you. I think that DH thinks I am the "boy who cried wolf."

JenniferH-Yay for good measurements! 3 more appointments? Time is ticking away!!

isaacsmommy-Yay for no more bili light!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That is great news! We want more pics!


Is anyone else's appetite decreasing?
Sometimes I think yes....sometimes I think I could still eat a horse. One thing is for sure, if I could just eat Ding Dongs for the rest of the pregnancy, I'd be happy. Those things are dam& good!

Waterproof mattress pad -I already posted this on LJ, but thought I would add it here too. I just folded up a towel last time. My water never broke though. I was also thinking of putting a couple of towels in our cars, just in case it broke in public. I would love to have a towel to put around me.

I have my appointment at 1:15 MST. I am hoping for a little progress. With all these contractions, something has to be happening, right?

Take care mommies!

[UTChick]

Jessie~ I gave him an August 1st deadline for traveling, so they had to do it a little early this year. ;) We are in Texas and most of the guys are in Florida, which is where DH is from. They usually do it in Pensacola but this time they are doing it in Biloxi. DH flew into New Orleans yesterday to meet a friend who lives in Mississippi and they are driving over to Biloxi tomorrow to meet up with everyone else.

ajlanden~ Oh, don't worry about him! He is still having fun. He called me last night to let me know that he was done gambling for the night because he was up $200. They are staying at Harrah's in New Orleans until tomorrow. Luckily so far he is sticking to the budget we set for him before he left. ;)


Well, I have my hospital about halfway packed. The rest of the stuff will be last minute - going home clothes, makeup bag with toothbrush, etc. I have the baby's things together, but I don't get my diaper bag until my shower on the 5th (gift from Mom), so I will just add those things in once I have the bag.

[babylove]

Ugh. I feel so yucky. Achy all over, crampy. Just blah. Sorry to be a complainer. :( I just walked a few blocks to get some lunch w/ a colleague and was having those horrible stabbing pains in my cervix the entire way there...ouchie. Hopefully it's doing something good!

Well, our nursery is close to finished! We washed almost all of Truman's clothes last night and now I just have to buy drawer liners so that I can put everything away. I also need to hang some stuff on the walls, and buy some baskets for storage. The window valance is being hung tonight...can't wait to see it! It's the same fabric as the bedding (I bought extra).

My mom bought Truman the entire collection of Dr. Seuss books yesterday. :eek: He's not even born and he's already a scholar ;) I can't wait to start reading to him.

appetite ~ For a while, yes. For a week or so I was feeling kind of first trimester-y and that made me want to eat less. But now, my appetite is back with a vengence.

mattress pad ~ Hadn't thought about this. I guess I just assumed that the odds were so low that my water would break (I've heard 1 in 10 women and 1 in 4 women--either way, pretty low) and even lower that it would happen in bed...so I just figured I'd take my chances. But come to think of it, we do have a mattress pad on the bed already, just don't know if it's waterproof.

[Chimichanga]

UTChick - that's an early draft! DH is doing his league I think on the 28th. They wanted the 30th but that's our anniversary and he said no (good DH! :D )

Appetite - I really can't find food that sounds good, but when we do eat I'm usually famished. DH likes to wait to eat and I keep telling him I'm starving :rolleyes: I'm eating a lot of the same foods due to the GD, so it's kind of annoying, but I'm still eating pretty solidly.

[Camdynlyn]

Pad for bed: Okay, I think I'm good in case my water breaks in bed but what about afterwards bleeding? Just put a towel down?? I have white sheets!!

**
I started packing my hospital bag last night. I had gone to Target and got some travel items of soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, face wipes and jazz like that. I put it in a bag (and realized I needed a bigger small duffle instead of the small Vera Bradley I had it in). I also laid aside a nursing gown I bought and a nursing bra. I have a few sample sizes of Lanolin I will throw in there as well as some free breast pads I got. They are the disposible kinds. I'm trying to pack small stuff so I don't have a HUGE bag. If I run out, I can always have Hubby come home to get more.

I've also got Bean's take home outfit ready. I looked at the booties last night and THINK they'll fit but I'm taking a smaller outfit just in case. The outfit I've got is a preemie and judging by my neighbor's baby (8 pounds), it should fit her. Oh yeah, I also packed a couple granola bars a mom gave me at one of my showers in my 'Mommy survival kit.' Only a couple more things I need to pack!!

[babylove]

OH!! Was the mattress pad question pertaining to PP bleeding? Oops. :o Totally missed that. I guess I'm a bit focused on the delivery part, eh? :p I guess we'll just use old sheets and I'll put a towel down. Thanks, Summer!

[jesseybell]

We had great old sheets on the bed and the other day one of the cats put a huge rip in it. We have one on there that I don't care that much about. I'll probably put towels between the sheet and the mattress pad for when I come home. I am not too concerned about my water breaking in bed.

But I think tonight I am going to throw some towels in the car in case it breaks while we are out and I need to cover up (me and the car!).

People keep asking me if my bags are in the car - no, they are not! Should they be? They are packed and ready at home.

Right now I am thinking that Tuesday will be my last day working in the office (I may even stay at home Monday). I will be much more comfortable at home. I can easily work from home (though some things do take longer).

[Abby'sMom]

Waterproof stuff - I didn't use anything on the bed post-DD. It didn't cross my mind. :)

Appetite - Generally has decreased. Probably because G2 is getting big and hasn't dropped a whole lot yet.

Bag - Not packed yet. Then again, I think Adam ended up packing it for me last time since I hadn't counted on being admitted to the hospital the day DD was born. That was at 39w 4d. :o Yeah, I tend to put things off a little.

Membrane stripping - It generally won't work unless you're heading toward labor anyway (unless they accidentally break your water, like Jenny mentioned). My OB actually stripped mine last week and nothing happened.

Sara, they fixed our a/c yesterday so we're out of the IL's house! It was ok, but I just totally prefer my own home. I don't feel like I'm stepping on any toes.

Thanks to those who offered thoughts for us... Amy, Tracee, Kathy, Ashley, Joelle... sorry if I missed anyone; I can't see back far enough.... Things are hopefully looking back up again!

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

Had another appt today. Now I'm sitting at 4+ cm, and my BP is up pretty high for me - high enough that my OB's not very happy about it. Sooo, hopefully soon.

[jennylou]

Pad for bed: Okay, I think I'm good in case my water breaks in bed but what about afterwards bleeding? Just put a towel down?? I have white sheets!!


The hospital sent me home with big pads that you can put under your sheet (I suppose you could put them above too, but they might slide around more? I still have two left and I'm thinking of putting one out soon. They have a plastic sort of bottom, so they should be water resistant.

hospital bag - not packed. :p I packed mine last time when I woke up and my water had broken. I was 39w5d. I imagine I'll do something similiar this time as well. :p

[Chimichanga]

I just finished packing my hospital bag. I think we packed WAAAY to much for the little girl, but her clothes don't take up much room at all ;)

DH and I finished organizing the guest bedroom for my parents (also my craft room and it was a bit messy). I have linens to wash but I'll do those this weekend. Next project to tackle - the guest bathroom. We have all of the baby bath stuff in there and it's a bit disorganized.

[Camdynlyn]

I've worked on my hospital bag today, too. I'm pretty much done except for a few things here and there. Not too shabby.

[mrstim]

hospital bag - packed! :D I've been packed for about 2 weeks now - the bags stay in the car. Or at least they did, until I got weirded out b/c I couldn't remember what I packed so I just drug it back into the house to re-pack again. :rolleyes: I'm such a dork.

[isaacsmommy]

A quick post since Ashley requested and becuase I'm such a proud momma ;)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/isaac7704/hanginout.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/isaac7704/toocute.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v419/isaac7704/sleeping.jpg

[babylove]

Oh, Jenn, those pics are precious!! I especially LOVE the last one of Grant and the second one of Isaac and Grant. He looks so happy to be a big brother!!

[mrstim]

Aw, I just love looking at baby pictures in here!

I shudder to think about me actually posting these hideous pics after such cuteness above. Sorry for the "indecency" of having the skirt pulled so low, but if I don't - I can't get all my belly in there! ACK! Oh well - here I am in all my "glory" :rolleyes:

http://images1.snapfish.com/347728959%7Ffp347%3Enu%3D3254%3E962%3E847%3EWSNRCG %3D32339988%3A%3A%3B85nu0mrj
http://images1.snapfish.com/347728959%7Ffp348%3Enu%3D3254%3E962%3E847%3EWSNRCG %3D32339988%3A%3A%3B88nu0mrj

Yikes - I feel huge!

After a good day yesterday swelling wise, I wore actual socks today to keep my feet warm - bad idea. The socks were half up my calf, and when I took them off tonight, apparently they acted as compression socks today, because while below the socks was only slightly swollen, above the socks is about an inch and a half bigger hanging over. OUCH!

Doc's appt in the morning - I need to get plenty of sleep tonight b/c tomorrow is a BUSY day! We're doing the major stock-up at Walmart for food and stuff. Gotta be prepared!!!! ;)

eta:36w5d

[babylove]

I just had to post so that I can say that I'm full term today :D Come on out baby, any time now!!

Amy ~ You look much lower! I bet your dr will tell you that you progressed this week!

[mrstim]

Thanks Tracee!!!!! EVERYONE in person keeps staring at my belly - even one of the older men at church this week said "Whoa, he's dropping really low." Just what I want all the old geezers to stare at - my vagina area? :rolleyes: :D

CONGRATS on full term - I'm with ya tomorrow!!!!! ;)

Yes, I'm up at 5:30 this morning with an insane urge to get up and clean the house - AND to eat some chocolate chip cookies. I made some last night for the freezer and they're HAUNTING me!! I have to leave for the doctor in 2.5 hours, so I need to get cracking. :rolleyes: Sillly preggo women!!! ;)

[Chimichanga]

Sounds like someone is nesting to me :D Good sign!!

We're doing the major Wal-Mart/Sam's Club stock up this weekend. DH has already made a list but I'm sure we won't stick to it too much.

Yesterday I cracked and had a chocolate chip cookie. The car dealer we bought our new SUV from sent us some cookies (can you tell they are small town? - but it was so nice!!) and DH had most of them polished off. There was one left and I ate it. It was good... but not as good as mine so I resisted another :p

[Camdynlyn]

Jen: Isaac has some beautiful eyes! WOW! Love the last picture of Grant. He looks so peaceful!!

Amy: WOW, you are dropping really low!

**
I'm all good. Had some BHs yesterday and she's moving around like crazy, too. I'm starving and all this talk of cookies is making me even more hungry. I've got to go to the grocery store today so I may pick me up some.

What is everyone stocking up on at the grocery store?? We are the type that go to the store and get what we need and rarely have 'extras' in the house... well, besides the freezer. I have extra frozen pizzas on hand and stuff like that.

Freezer question: I would like to make about 2-3 meals to freeze but 1) I'm not the best cook and 2) I have no idea how to freeze stuff. Yup, go ahead and make fun of me. I think I'll cook a Lasagna and Chicken Pot Pie (2 meals I cook very well and are all in ones). Do I go ahead and cook the noodles like I would and put the cheese on top (Lasagna) and then wrap and freeze? For the Chicken, do I go ahead and make it like I would except no baking and freeze it?? Anyone got any good recipes that freeze easily and are simple? I know there is a thread.. maybe I should dig it up. On another board I frequent (for mommies in my area), one lady has already signed up to bring me stuff. I know churches sometimes do this but I'm new to our church so I'm not sure. My mom will (hopefully) be in town the first little bit so that should help out as well.

[Ericka_Jarett]

Camdynlyn - just wanted to comment on the lasagne. I will usually make a big tray and bake it than let it cool. After it's cool I cut it into serving sizes and wrap the pieces in foil and freeze. Than when you want it just defrost and microwave. If you prefer not to cook it until you need it, you can precook everything just like you normally would and instead of baking, just let it cool. Personally I prefer it already cooked, justmakes for easier faster meal. Another good thing to get is the freezer ziploc bags. You can put your cut pieces wrapped in foil into these bags for storage, this way it helps to keep other food odors out of it.

[jesseybell]

chocolate chip cookies - Homemade Tollhouse are my favorite food in the whole world. If I ever had to have a last meal, I would eat a whole batch. I made some the other night (didn't make as many cookies as I would have liked because i was extremely bad and ate a ton of dough (big no-no due to raw eggs). I left out 6 for DH and put the rest in the freezer to throw in our hospital bag. I may be getting diamond earrings (the only other piece of jewelry I have ever wanted - we bought them together months ago but I haven't seen them since) for having this baby, but nothing is going to be a bigger incentive to push her out than to have chocolate chip cookies waiting for me....but last night I broke into the bag and had a couple, okay, maybe 4. I need to put them way in the back so I don't eat them all before she gets here...or I'll need to make more!

Freezer-I planned on cooking and freezing all this food before hand, but honestly, we don't eat dinner together a lot (something I plan on changing once I am home and continuing once I go back to work) so its not like DH is used to/expecting me to cook or have a real meal on the table. We have some frozen stuff and I love pasta, so we have a stock of that. But also the grocery store is a mile away and enough places around us to take-out or delivery, so we should be okay.

What we did do was a big BJs run for non-perishables, so I think we have enough TP, paper towel, toothbrushes, cleaning supplies, etc. for months, so DH will only need to run out and get food for us, food for the cats, and once we know what size diapers DD will be in he can get a ton of them and wipes. Right now we just have 1 pack of newborns and 2 packs of size 1s and 1 thing of wipes.
Knowing that I only need to be in the office through Tuesday is such a wonderful thing. It can't come fast enough!

[isaacsmommy]

Sounds like a bunch of ladies are nesting in here!! I bet we'll have more babies really soon!:D

MrsTim- I think you look amazing. You have a whole new life in that wonderful belly.

Oh and by the way you ladies are so evil for mentioning chocolate chip cookies! :p I feel like since I'm not preggo anymore I don't have a good excues for indulging. Plus since I can't drive yet I can't go get any anyways.

Baby's waking up must go......

[Chimichanga]

Freezing - Camdynlyn I bumped up a thread in the cooking area about easy freezing meals. Some of them look quite good! I'm going to be freezing a Chili Mac casserole in baggies, some chicken meals and possibly another casserole. All will be cut down into serving sizes for DH and I and probably my mom. More than likely I'll use baggies, but I have heard that if you put a double layer of foil in your pan, put that in the freezer to get it solid, then take it out of the pan, it works well (it's described better in the freezing thread).

I probably won't freeze any cookies because honestly; they won't last long anyways. I usually make enough for everyone but I'll make sure I get some set aside for me.

We're also going to stock up on "easy" meals like hamburgers, canned soups, mac and cheese - I know, not the healthiest but quick. That's why the meals I'll be freezing will come in handy. We can integrate those with the cheapy meals for some nutrition. We always add a veggie and salad so we're not too bad.

[Camdynlyn]

I'm hoping to make next week my Freezing week. Thanks for bumping that thread! I printed out some recipes.

[Camdynlyn]

I'll post Bean's Coming Home Outfit. It's too precious, I think. It's incredibly soft, white and simple:
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b320/Camdynlyn/Pregnant024.jpg
Close up of detailing in silver:
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b320/Camdynlyn/Pregnant025.jpg

[JenniferH]

Camdynlyn ~ Love, love, love the coming home outfit!

Isaccsmommy ~ Great pics of the boys! I can't wait until I can take pics of my guys!

Freezing ~ I am going to Dream Dinners to make some meals in two weeks. They are great! You go there make a mess and they clean up! Other than that we will probably get take out or someone in our family will bring us a meal. That's pretty much what happened last time.

Chocolate chip Cookies ~ I agree with jesseybell...homemade tollhouse are the best! Luckily, I have been so full after dinner the last thing I want are cookies.

I feel so far behind in what I need to get done. My hospital bag isn't packed, but I have thought about it. The nursery isn't even painted let alone finished. I still haven't done all the baby wash and have no clue what his coming home outfit will be. I feel like a slacker mommy. I did manage to buy newborn diapers and sensitive wipes!

[amyinlosangeles]

Hey guys,

Still reading along, just no energy to catch up - I am soooo behind. Pretty depressed after my Dr. appt. yesterday - after only gaining 1lb in 2 weeks, I gained 6 pounds this past week!!!!!!!! My Dr. makes me feel like crap - "There's no way you're THAT swollen" - How the he** can I gain 6lbs from eating in 1 week??? I'm eating less than ever before. So annoying.

Sleep is still nonexistent. I'm now averaging 3hrs a night but I'm too uncomfortable to even take naps during the day. I still have a ton left to do and I'm trying not to freak.

Question for those who've installed the Graco Snugride.... is it easier than the directions make it look? Or am I just being an airhead and making it seem like a bigger challenge than it really is? I can't leave it up to DH to do it so it's on me and my mom.

I have a feeling Ava is going to be staying put for a long, long, long time! I am SO done.

[PLNUBRIDE]

Ok... I am so far behind on SO's that I don't think I can even begin...

BUT I have to say that Grant and Isaac are SOO ADORABLE! Big brother looks quite proud:)

AmyinLA - My DH and I just installed our GRACO carrier and base this week (not sure if it si the snugRide...are those the ones that fit into the stroller?)
and I have to say that it is not not as daunting as it seems. The instructions look like overkill but only b/c they describe various ways to install the seat. To me, the hardest part was learning how to adjust the straps on the actual carrier...all in all though...not horrible:). Good luck:)

had a Dr appt yesterday: I am thinning slightly, although she did not give me a percentage but no dilation. I have also lost 1 pound...so I was excited! Although she is seeing if they can schedule an induction for Aug 11th (I am due on the 12th and apparently my Dr does not like preggos to go past their due dates....which I think is a nice thing) I will find out next week if it is a GO for sure (checking availability).

My DH was bummed b/c he thought for sure I was already dialating! He was so sure in fact that yesterday before my appt he made me pack my hosiptal bag...I had everything I needed just hadn't packed it yet. He is too cute:)

One small vent - there was a reason why I wanted to keep our final name choice a secret as far as IRL people are concerned...EVERYONE has an opinion. When I told my mom that we have decided to not go with the formal name of Lillian Morgan and instead just use Lily Morgan she had a few comments to make...Like "I don't think that sounds right, I think it is too short...I like Lillian better as a first name". Just makes me mad I guess. The weird thing is my name is AMY CHRISTIN....just as as many syllables and just as short as LILY MORGAN. IF I went with a formal name it would be LILIA...which she also did not like! I give up. I know I don't need her approval...but I guess I am just overly senstive right now

[Chimichanga]

Graco Snugride - it wasn't too difficult to install, but once we had it checked we found out we did it just slightly wrong. :) Ehh - it was an easy fix though.

Two more hours then I'M ON MATERNITY LEAVE!!!!! :D :D Everyone is asking me if I'm ready. It's kind of hard to answer that IMO. It's like asking if you're ready for the unknown. I have the crib, we took the classes - we're "prepared" in that aspect, but I have no clue what this little one is going to bring to my life. So I say we're as ready as we can be and we're excited - which is true - but it is just so odd.

[Camdynlyn]

Graco Snugride: We have this as well but I'll take it to the fire dept. or to the hospital before hand and they will help install it to make sure it's correct.

[mrstim]

Back from my appt!!!

BP was 116/72 - PERFECT!
Weight: I lost 2 more pounds!
Baby's HB: 156
GBS Swab came back negative!

Now I know there was something else I should post here, hmmmm..........maybe I am not remembering what else that doctor said????

Lemme go think............................................. ...

Ha, I'm so mean. Now here's the GOOD news.....

I'm dilated to 1!!!!!

I'm 50% effaced!!!!!!

And baby is officially at -2 station!

Now if that wasn't cool enough - the doctor did say that from all appearances he doesn't expect me to make it to my due date. He did say he expects to see me in L&D very soon. When he left the room, Tim grabbed my hands and SQUEALED - apparently all this was VERY good news to him as well!

Anyway, I got the whole lecture on just when to come to the hospital, what to do if my water breaks, etc.

Doc said that it sounds very favorable for me to go into labor AT ANY TIME because the barely there dilation, coupled with the weight loss, BH contractions I've been having, effacement, and since last week I was closed up tight, he said it sounds like I'll be a mommy very soon.

And my house is totally clean - I stayed up and hoofed it this morning and every surface in the house is clean and ready for the baby! I also did the huge grocery shop today - bought tons of food, extra batteries, all kinds of stuff - so I AM READY. DH went to get gas for the mower, but since he's left a thunderstorm has risen, and it's pouring, so I'm off to put up the huge amount of groceries we bought!!!!!!

Now of course, I know that what he said isn't accurate to the T - I could go for another 3 weeks. BUT it was very nice to hear, I have to admit! The internal HURT like CRAZY - I literally yelped, it was SO painful. Since then - even while shopping I've had some contractions that were more painful than ever. YEOUCH! I can't believe how much that hurt - not to scare anyone b/c all the others I've had haven't hurt but today?? :eek:

Hope all is well with anyone else!

[Chimichanga]

Oh yay!!! :D It's so nice to hear "the end is almost here" when it comes to pregnancy!! Even if it doesn't happen tomorrow, it's close. I'm so happy for you!!!

[babylove]

I'm way too lazy to do SO right now...

37w drs appt this afternoon and I'm a little disheartened by the virtual lack of progress...

Weight: up 2lbs :( (total weight gain so far is 28 lbs)
BP: 102/62
fundal height: 37
baby's HB: perfect
dilation: 1+ (not quite 2)
effacement: still 80%
station: 0 (he said that he rarely sees cases of first time moms with the baby so low this early and that it's a good thing for my purposes b/c I'll dilate faster)

I guess I thought I would be more dilated or more effaced with all of the discomfort I've been experiencing lately.

The most exciting news of all is that my induction is officially scheduled for Sunday, August 13th at 6am :D --unless of course Truman decides to make his appearance on his own before that. This is perfect b/c if I actually deliver on Sunday, then the bris would be the following Sunday, allowing more of my mom's family, who are all out of town, attend. That would make my mom really happy.

Oh and I'm OFFICIALLY ON MATERNITY LEAVE!!!!! :D :D

***

Frozen foods: I plan on doing Let's Dish one more time in early August so I'll have some frozen meals, but I'm sure my mom will cook for us or make sure we have food in the house once the baby is here. She's cool like that ;)

***

Quickly...

Amy ~ Sorry you are so uncomfortable and that your dr gave you a hard time about the weight gain :( As for the carseat installation, I actually thought it looked really difficult to install (we have the SafeSeat by Graco) and don't think I would have done it properly had I done it myself. I would really recommend going to a firestation and having it done by someone who is certified.

Summer ~ Beautiful outfit!!

[K&H's mommy]

Wow some exciting news ladies! Maybe we will have some of you going into labor this weekend! I think it's funny that we are just a couple days away from August and we've only had 2 births. Well maybe "funny" isn't the right word. I won't think it's very funny if we are heading into September and I'm still here pregnant and complaining. :rolleyes:

This is my last weekend of working. Monday I have my 36 week appointment, will get my GBS testing done and hopefully an internal to see what's going on down there. Never thought I'd be so excited to stick my feet in the stirrups and take off my pants... :P I have some strong BH's but nothing regular or consistent. Sometimes 6 an hour, and then none for 12 hours. Who knows. After next weekend she can come whenever she wants. But next weekend I have my second baby shower (first is on Wednesday) so I'd like to make it to that! I'll also be 37 weeks at that point.

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

[Abby'sMom]

Am I the ONLY one who isn't even remotely bothered by internals? I don't even feel them, to be honest. Or maybe that's just because I've been having them for 7 weeks now. :p Or... meh... maybe my OB just has good hands. (Sorry.)

Good progress all around, it sounds like! Sara, I'm really surprised that we only have a few babies now, too. Usually like half of the moms have delivered by the end of the previous month!

I just spent two hours walking around the mall trying to stretch my 4+ cm into 5. :) If s/he would just drop some, I know I'd go into labor.

[K&H's mommy]

Or... meh... maybe my OB just has good hands. (Sorry.)

LMAO!!!! :p Or maybe just skinny fingers....he he.

[Abby'sMom]

LMAO!!!! Or maybe just skinny fingers....he he.

Trust me, there is NOTHING skinny about my OB. :D He's very, very round. It's actually shocking to me that he manages to be as gentle as he is.

Oh, lord, what am I saying?!

I must be punchy.

I'm so sorry.

[mrstim]

My internals haven't hurt at ALL until now - and I've had lots of them! They were concerned about my cervix earlier on in the pregnancy, and my doc also does them mandatory from 32 weeks on. Today just HURT for some odd reason! It's still crampy feeling. :( It felt like he reached up there and yanked down, and he's normally SO gentle!!!!

For those of you who've had painful ones, is it normal to have contractions afterwards? I've had several painful ones since the internal? The pregnant body is so weird sometimes!

[Abby'sMom]

Amy, did he strip your membranes, maybe? I'm surprised he'd do it a) at only 37w and b) without asking first, but sometimes they do. (It feels more 'aggressive' when they do it.) Anyway, having contrax can be totally normal post-internals.

[jennylou]

I had my weekly appt/NST/BPP today as well.

All is good with baby girl. She's estimated to be 7lb, 1oz. I am soft and 2cm, almost 3 cm dialated. I've been having prodromal labor all week (it gets going good, they get to like seven minutes apart and then completely fizzle out, repeat process). So, needless, to say, I'm tired! I had my membranes stripped last time and was in labor the next day (water broke). So, DH went around telling everyone baby was coming by tomorrow. Boy, was he dissapointed to learn that stripping membranes means that you have a 50/50 shot of going into labor within THREE days. The OB did tell me that if we have sex, that will increase the chance of labor.

[mrstim]

If he did - he totally did it w/o telling me! Who knows? I do know last week he barely reached in there and w/no trouble said I was "closed and thick" but today he had to STRETCH it and feel around for 10 or so seconds. Since this is all new....I have no idea what he did! I would also be very surprised that he'd do it at 37 weeks as well - Oh well - guess we'll see!

[K&H's mommy]

When I was being induced with DS, the doctor that came in to examine me stripped my membranes without telling me. I thought she was just checking me and then HOLY CRAP it hurt. I actually pushed myself up the bed (involuntarily) to get away from her and she goes "oh sorry, I was just stripping your membranes". I said "you might want to warn someone before you go and do that". It hurt!!! :eek:

[Abby'sMom]

I'd guess maybe that's what he did, then.

Of course, my doctor stripped mine last week and I still didn't feel it so much... I'm not sure I would have noticed had he not said he was doing it.

[Camdynlyn]

All this talk about internals got me to thinking....

I have my next appointment next Friday (35w5d) and was told I'd have to wait until 36 weeks for my GBS test. The doctor (there are 8 in my practice) said they do internals anytime they are asked but he will usually do one at the GBS test since you are already unclothed. I don't think anything's happening down there yet but I would like to know.

Soo, this brought on my thinking... my next appointment on Friday is with a woman doctor (smaller hands). I won't know who my next doc is until I schedule it that day. I guess I could hope for a woman for my first internal and hope she's gentle! :p Funny how I try to rationalize things.

[Chimichanga]

Ehh - I don't know about women being gentler with internals. Mine sort of...well...rooted around in there for a bit. I think sometimes women "know" what it feels like for them so they figure everyone has the same tolerance. At least guy doctors don't know what it feels like so if you're like "it hurts!" they may stop.

The internal I had didn't hurt, but it shocked the jeebus out of me. No contractions or anything afterward. I don't have to have any more internals since I'm going in for a c/s next week. :D

[jesseybell]

Why didn't I decide for today to be my last day at work, not Tuesday. I am SO ready to be done. Last night was the first night my ankles didn't un-swell while I slept. Right now they are so swollen it even hurts to go up and down the stairs. And I've prefected the pregnant waddle. I feel like I am leaning way back because my center of gravity feels so different. At least my back doesn't hurt. DH keeps telling me to lie down - doesn't he remember that lieing down makes me miserable, especially since we just ate?!

The phone calls have already started to see if I am still here.

Looks like we could have some babies in the next couple of days. Finally!!

[mrstim]

I'm SO nauseated. I haven't eaten in a while, but the thought of trying to eat grosses me out. :( Contractions are about 10-12 minutes apart right now! :eek:

I'm getting kinda excited but at the same time I don't want to cry wolf. They're not TOO painful yet - I can mainly tell that they're there because they're in my lower belly/back and my belly tightens SO hard. I'm assuming from you RO's that that's what sounds like contrax?

The unkwnon is what freaks me out, ya know? Here I am - never have been in labor, so how will I know that this is "it?" I know the doc's say when the contractions get 5 minutes apart, but what if they're not *that* painful? They feel like menstrual cramps, but the media/world has us thinking that we're supposed to be moaning and holding our belly and so in pain for each contraction.

Does that sound totally crazy? Guess my over-tired brain is overanalyzing things and poor DH is totally NOT a help as far as knowing - not to mention that he's asleep now. Since he works nights, he'd been up 24 hours.

Since I only slept 5 hours last night and have been up 16 hours, I think the best plan of action is to go force myself to lay down and try to get some rest just in case this is it. If it is - I'll probably know by morning, right?

Ugh - the unknowns make me feel so sick.

[amyinlosangeles]

How exciting mrstim!!

[amyinlosangeles]

also, thanks to everyone for your replies about the carseat - I may attempt to install it w/my mom tomorrow and then take it to an inspection station. I just hate putting anything together w/my mom - it gets VERY stressful! Oh well, it must be done.

[Sabriel]

amyinlosangeles Good luck putting your car seat in! We still have to do that too. Sorry that you aren't sleeping well.

mrstim How are you feeling today? I bet he did strip your membranes. Unfortunately, they are allowed to do it without telling you.

jesseybell Sorry you are so uncomfortable. You'll be holding your baby soon!

jennylou Glad things are going well. I hope real labor starts soon for you!

K&H's mommy Have fun at your showers!

babylove and Chimichanga Yay for maternity leave!

PLNUBRIDE Sorry your mom is making comments about her name. I think Lily Morgan is beautiful.

Camdynlyn Adorable outfit!

isaacsmommy Those pictures are precious! You have 2 handsome boys there. :)

ajlanden Nope, no progress checks for me until I arrive at the birth center in labor.

I have my last shower today. It is with my mom's side of the family, so it should be fun! Then tomorrow we are going to go buy everything that we didn't get, but still need. I ordered a hotsling yesterday and a couple of diaper pail totes and some wipes solution for our cloth diapers today. DH and my dad are going to work on finishing the ceramic tile that they are laying in the front room and the kitchen today and tomorrow. Our house is a work in progress disaster right now! It is so stressful. I hope they get it done before the baby decides to make an appearance.

I hope everyone has a good weekend and that we have some more babies soon!

[mrstim]

Thanks everyone! I'll ask him next time I see him if he did or not - hopefully he'll remember!

As for how I am - I had contractions that just got worse and worse until about 11:30 last night, when exhaustion finally lulled me to sleep. They were about 8 minutes apart for the last three hours. I was up and down crampy all night, until finally they woke me up at 4am. Until 7:15am they were about 7-8 minutes apart again, and I dozed in between them after 7:15 and they have now puttered out to being about 15 minutes apart. IF this is the real thing, I obviously want it to continue, and I've been looking at different ways to see if this is real or not. One website said to walk and see if they get stronger, so I just laced up the ole tennis shoes and I'm heading out for a few minutes. I'm also getting LOTS of leakage down below, I put a pad on so I can monitor what it is. If this goes on for another couple of hours, I'll probably call my doctor just to see what he wants me to do - I can't go on like this for another week! I can now see how you get tired enough to ask for medical intervention/pain medication. One's just starting right now and the only thing that helps is that I'm sitting on my birthing ball rocking back and forth. That seems to help so much!

Gotta go breathe.......

[Abby'sMom]

Mmmm... the contrax could be false labor pretty easily - I had that with DD and I thought I was going to DIE. BUT, it does sound maybe like your bag of waters is leaking... :eek:

[mrstim]

I know - it's scary!!!! The last three have been 7 minutes and 6 minutes. For those of you who've been through labor before w/contrax -

Does that "five minute rule" mean that every contraction will come exactly 5 minutes apart? Like for instance last night - when they were 8, 7, 9, 8, 7, 9, 8 apart, does that mean "irregular?" I guess in my brain I was thinking they'd be timed to the minute/second. I know these are stupid questions, but honestly - I'm not sure!!!!!

Anyway - at any rate, it's raining now outside, guess so much for the walk! Any other suggestions?

[Abby'sMom]

My false labor pains were as close as 3 minutes apart for an hour; we were just getting ready to leave for the hospital when they slowed to 6 minutes apart, and then came to a stop a few hours later.

I'd say try getting into a warm bath (that's what stopped mine), but it's a calculated risk if your water is leaking... then again, mine was leaking at the time and I didn't know it and DD was fine. You could try the bath - just don't use any soap or bubble bath or anything.

And no, not stupid questions, Amy! They would be irregular, yes....

[UTChick]

Wow! Yesterday was busy in here. I will attempt some SO's.

mrstim~ I hope this is the real thing for you because it would suck to feel this bad and it be false labor. Keep us updated!

isaacsmommy~ Your boys are so precious! Love those pics!

jenny~ Sounds like great news. Hopefully your little girl will be here in a couple of days!

Internals - I had mine last week and it didn't hurt at all. It was a bit uncomfortable, but not any worse than a pap. My dr. said I might have some light spotting later in the day, but I didn't. And I don't think I had any contractions either. In fact, I don't think I have had any kind of contractions period. But I wasn't dilated at all, so maybe that has something to do with it?

Sleep - Gone are the nights of sleeping soundly! I am getting a couple of hours of sleep, get up to pee and then I lie awake and then doze and maybe get a couple more hours of sleep, etc. Surprisingly, I am able to function during the day. I am usually the kind of person who needs a solid 8 hours to function so this gives me hope for when the baby comes. Maybe I can survive on only a few hours of sleep! :)

[Abby'sMom]

mrstim~ I hope this is the real thing for you because it would suck to feel this bad and it be false labor. Keep us updated!

For what it's worth, my false labor with DD was MUCH MUCH MUCH worse/more painful than ACTUAL labor....

[babylove]

Thinking of you Amy...I hope this is it for you!!

As for me, I just made my second visit to labor & delivery. :rolleyes: Truman didn't move once from the time I woke up at 6:30 until I called my dr at 10. Actually, he didn't move until they started monitoring him--when he gave a few swift kicks aimed directly at the monitors. :rolleyes: He hasn't gone that long without moving in weeks and weeks and I was so scared that I was going to get bad news at the hospital. My dr was great--he met me at the door and stayed with me the entire time I was being monitored. Everything is fine, obviously. I guess the baby was just feeling lazy this morning. He still isn't moving much but at least I know he's ok in there. The next time I got to L&D I'd better be leaving with a baby!!!!

I felt really bad about going to L&D again but as my dr said, this is my baby we're talking about and I'd never forgive myself if I didn't go to the hospital if I thought something was wrong.

[mrstim]

I took a warm bath and they just got stronger. They're still in the 8-10 minute range, but I did call my doctor and they want me to come in to L&D for monitoring.

I'm terrified it'll be a dry run - I'll feel like an idiot. Tracee - that helps so much to hear you say:
this is my baby we're talking about and I'd never forgive myself if I didn't go to the hospital if I thought something was wrong.

Anyway - just updating you all - I am so tired and still in pain. Course, now watch them stop on my way to the hospital. :rolleyes:

[UTChick]

mrstim~ Don't feel bad! If I had been dealing with what you have for the past few days, I'd be calling the dr. and going to the hospital, too! And so what if it is a dry run. It definitely won't hurt anything to go get monitored for a while and you never know - this could really be it!! The rest of us (or at least most of us) are just as clueless about real labor vs. false labor, so please don't feel stupid. I am still wondering if I have ever had BH contractions because I have no clue what they would even feel like. Best of luck to you and I am thinking of you today. :)

[jesseybell]

mrstim - Hopefully this is it for you! Even if it isn't, going to the hospital for monitoring is not a bad thing.

I am just resting. We went out to eat and sat at the bar- I made DH leave after less than an hour - I was just so uncomfortable. Nothing feels good except sitting here on the couch. After the Red Sox game we're heading to the pool - I am going to have DH drive me the 1/4 mile (or less) down the hill, because there is no way I would make it back up the hill in this 90 degree heat.

[Tuesdayschild]

She's here!
Miriam Linda was born July 23, at 8:15 p.m. She weighed 5 lbs, 1 oz, and arrived at exactly 35 weeks gestation. 18 1/2" long, with dark hair. I was discharged Wednesday and she's still in the hospital's "feed and grow" nursery care. She is doing very well for being premature. I started labor again on Sat. the 22nd, despite being on bedrest & using terbutiline. We weren't able to satisfactorily "stop" contractions at the hospital, so dr. performed an amnio to determine her maturity. We then discovered her fluid was extremely low, which made the test difficult. The dr. had to stick me twice to get enough fluid. Results came back at a sufficient maturity level so the c-section was scheduled for that evening!
She came out crying lustily but had trouble with her lungs not inflating so she was put on pressured oxygen. Moved off that to pure oxygen and weaned her down to room air over the next 4 days. She's now maintaining her own body temperature. Spent a day under lights for jaundice--that's pretty typical. Her feeding schedule is every 3 hours, during which time we're allowed to hold her; otherwise she needs to be sleeping. We're slowly working in bottle feedings instead of the feeding tube, one or two out of every 3 but she's struggling with it. Yesterday was a "bad" day, when she lost weight and was unable to complete a bottle, but today is better. I'm pumping breast milk for her and trying to balance at home time with the incredible urge to see her all the time. She's being taken off more and more monitors & helps so there's progress...I'll try to update again soon.

[Camdynlyn]

Amy: I hope this is it for you!!! :)

**
I'm back from my birthing class. Overall a success. I think I knew most of the stuff but it was benefical to Hubby (even if he doesn't admit it!;) ).

ETA: CONGRATS, TUESDAYSCHILD!!! :D:D:D:D We have another baby!!

[amyinlosangeles]

Congrats Tuesdayschild and welcome Miriam!!!! :D

[bluhimmy]

Congratulations Tuesdayschild! Can't wait to see pics of Miriam!

[Abby'sMom]

Welcome to Miriam! I'm glad to hear she's doing ok!

[jesseybell]

Congratulations tuesdayschild! Glad to hear that Miriam is doing so well!

[LILRTL]

update on mrstim - she called me around 6:00

Alright. She is 3 cm dilated, 75% effaced, and lil' man is at -1 station... which means she is making progress!! They were worried that she had a UTI, but the test came back negative (yay!). They monitored her for a while, and her contractions were very spacey - she said she would have one every 2 minutes, and then every 8 minutes. She has also been walking. They are getting ready to put her back on the monitors, and check her again. Depending on what they find out then, they said she could spend the night or go home. She said she would opt to go home so that she would/could be more comfortable. If she stays, I am sure she will call me again, and I will be back here to update! Could be a long night for Mrs. Amy! Keep all the prayers/good thoughts/labor vibes going her way!!!

[duke's flygirl]

Congratulations Tuesdayschild and Welcome MIRIAM!

Thinking of you too Amy!

[babylove]

WOW!!! Another August baby!!! Congratulations Tuesdayschild and welcome to the world Miriam!

Thanks, Lora, for the update on Amy!!

[Camdynlyn]

GO, AMY, GO!

[mrstim]

Betcha didn't expect to hear from ME tonight, now didja?

Unfortunately, my contractions spaced out even more after a while. They gave me the option of staying or leaving, and I chose to leave (along with a nice little sleeping pill!) I'm much more comfy here with just me and Tim and my birthing ball, bed, and jacuzzi. ;)

I am NOT leaking fluid - it was just a whole lot of mucous.

When we first got there, the nurse checked (couldn't find my cervix, sent me reeling off the bed in pain, got the charge nurse, who ALSO sent me into orbit) and found that I was at 3, blah, blah - she was confident I was staying. THEN when the contrax went wacky, she said she would probably go home and rest. Especially since I've not slept hardly at all in the last few days.

Them having so much trouble finding my cervix has led me to believe that the doctor didn't strip my membranes yesterday after all. The third nurse that did my internal before I left said she'd hardly ever felt a cervix THAT hard to get to! It was rather cool to get to watch the monitor when I was contracting though!
Anyway - I'm here, the nurse DID Say the doctor classifies it as "early labor" because there was cervical change. It WASN'T false labor. Unfortunately, this could go on for a few hours, could go on for several days or weeks. So ya'll just pray it doesn't stretch out for days, alright?

I'm off to take a bath, get a backrub and take my sleepy pill. We'll see what tomorrow holds!!! The nurse said she honestly expects me back in the next 48 hours.

I'm too utterly exhausted to respond in any way but to say thank you so much for all the well-wishes!! :D

eta: 37 weeks and CONGRATS to TuesdaysChild!!!! :D

[K&H's mommy]

Welcome Miriam! I hope she gets to come home very, very soon!!

It's starting to get exciting in here! :)

[babylove]

Amy, Sorry to hear that tonight wasn't the night but it does sound like you are progessing nicely! Hopefully you will get some good rest tonight...sounds like you need it!!

[Camdynlyn]

Amy: Sorry tonight wasn't your night but send me some dialation vibes! :)

[Camdynlyn]

Also, does anyone know that site that lets you send a link to friends/family for them to guess the due date of the baby? I'd also like one for them to guess the size as well but will take just the due date. Mom and Dad were discussing how long and how much Bean would weigh and it made me remember of a site I'd heard about. Any helP?

ETA: Found it... nevermind. www.expectnet.com

[Chimichanga]

Congratulations TuesdaysChild and Welcome Miriam!!!

Amy - I hope things progress quickly for you. I can't imagine what you're going thorugh!!

Jesseybell and Cocoafemme - how are you guys doing?!? You two were the "early" August mommas... just want to check in and make sure you guys are doing okay.

did some running around today; baby girl was kicking like mad. Because it was so hot my sugars were VERY low. I had an iced tea, chicken stir-fry and soup (loads of carbs!) and my readings were almost too low. Yikes!

I'm going to try to go to the county fair tomorrow. it's supposed to be hotter than hell, but I really want an ear of corn and a funnel cake. Maybe a gyro. And some other delicious fried fair foods. ;)

[UTChick]

Congrats Tuesdayschild and welcome to Miss Miriam!! I am hoping she is able to come home really soon.

Amy~ Sorry tonight wasn't the night, but from the sound of things, it won't be too long before you get to hold your little guy. Try to get as much rest as possible.

[Sabriel]

Congrats Tuesdayschild and welcome little Miriam!!! I hope she gets to come home soon!

Chimichanga Fair food, yummy!

mrstim Hope you can get some rest! Good luck!

Camdynlyn Glad the birth classes went well!

jesseybell Sorry you are so uncomfortable. Have fun at the pool!

babylove I'm glad that Truman is okay!

UTChick Sorry you aren't getting much sleep.

My shower yesterday was lots of fun. Baby got tons more clothes and blankets, which we are drowning in! We also got a mini cosleeper, which is wonderful. It's all set up in our bedroom, but it's not hooked to the bed yet. I am doing baby laundry again today. All I have left to wash is the crib bedding. Mom and I are going to the store today to buy everything that we still need. I am also hoping to get the car seat bases installed. I hope everyone is having a great weekend!

[mrstim]

Whoa, let me just say that Ambien is the BOMB!!!! I went to bed at 10 last night and woke up at 6 in the exact same position on the bed. I didn't even wake up to pee at all. Of course, I was about to explode, but it knocked me out completely. WOW.

So now I feel fully rested, although a little drugged, but I'm going to go eat and see what today holds - It's been two days since my contrax started, maybe something will get really shaking today! Crossing all crossables!

One tip: The nurses explained the differenece in what they term mild, moderate and strong contractions: If your belly feels like the tip of your nose - hard but spongey, it's mild. Like the tip of your chin - still spongey, but harder, they're modedrate. Then - strong contrax are when your belly feels like your forehead - hard. You shoulda seen me patting my nose and chin while patting my belly walking down the hallway in my hospital gown last night! Sexay! ;)

I'm going to try to eat.....thanks for all the thoughts and prayers you're all throwing my way!

[babylove]

Amy ~ I agree...Ambien is the greatest invention ever...next to Zofran, of course. ;) I took Ambien the night before the bar exam and the night before my wedding! Interesting comparison of the belly to the nose/chin/forehead...I'll probably be doing the same thing you did! LOL! I hope things get going for you today!

Cherish ~ Yay for a great shower! We have lots of blankets too...too many!

Jen ~ Mmmmm...funnel cake!

Summer ~ Are you going to let us play too? :)

***

I slept reallly well last night and I've already felt Truman moving around this morning, so it's already a better day than yesterday. My best guess as to what happened is that he changed positions. His feet/lets have been on my left side for several months now and I never felt hard kicks anywhere but in that one place. Now I'm feeling movement on the other side. So I think he just shifted positions and is maybe kicking my back...which I don't feel. :rolleyes:

[July&August2006Mommies]

Updated to here!

[jesseybell]

Still here and not much going on. I tried to spend as much time off my feet yesterday to try to get the swelling to go down, which I was successful with. I also felt nauseaus all day, so I much pretty much a blob. I did have some cramping at the end of the day.

For the second night, I stayed in bed until 11 this morning! My hips are paying for it, but it felt SO nice.

It is just too hot here to do anything and driving in the car is incredibly uncomfortable - she either loves or hates the car because it gets her moving like crazy- even when I am stretched out as much as I can, I get tons of jabs in the ribs and hips.

So today will probably consist of swimming, doing the laundry from the care packages from MIL and SIL, and cleaning the bathroom (nope, not nesting, just needs to be done again!). I want to be on my feet or on my ball today more to get things moving.

Knowing I only have 2 more days in the office is a wonderful thing.

At least DH doesn't keep telling me she won't come until August 10th (which could be true if I wait until next week's appt to talk about induction, which is what I plan). He now says "just a few more days" I really hope that is true but my body isn't telling me that.

[cosmic]

Congratulations, TuesdaysChild!!!!! :D

[isaacsmommy]

Oh Yay! Another baby!

Congrats Tuesdayschild and welcome Baby Miriam!!!

MrsTim- Sorry this wasn't it, but for 37 weeks wow what progress!

No time to attempt proper So's right now. Sorry :o .

So I was going to make a quick run to the store yesterday (yes, I was cheating on the no driving rule but only by a couple days), but my car wouldn't start. Thought it was the battery, which was dead but something else is draining it. So took it to the shop last night and since the battery was under warranty they said it could be replaced free (great :) ) and they would figure out what killed it. Well today they called, they don't know what drained the battery and we'll have to take it somewhere else. WTF? So, now this is a huge headache. They think it is my alarm, but who knows. Now I am allowed to drive tomarrow, but I have no car :rolleyes: . Guess that is what I get for trying to cheat. Of course I apparently am a rule breaker since I already convinced DH to BD. ;) Sorry if that was TMI.

Anyways hope everyone is having a nice weekend. :)

[mrstim]

My contractions are now 2 minutes apart - have been for the last 75 minutes. Hope this isn't just another dry run! :(

[isaacsmommy]

Amy I'm crossing my fingers for you! Good Luck!!!! :)

[UTChick]

Good luck Amy!! 2 minutes apart sounds like more than a dry run to me! I'll be thinking of you. :)

[amyinlosangeles]

Good luck Amy! Hope this is it for you!!!! :D

[bluhimmy]

Good luck Amy! Will be thinking about you.

[babylove]

Good Luck amy!!!!

[LILRTL]

update on mrstim

Our Amy was sent home. :( She was having contractions consistently 2 minutes apart, and when they put her on the monitor, she had notta.. She said the nurse was not very nice, and she has had a rough day. She and Tim were headed home to try to rest, relax, and recuperate. I'm sure they could use all the prayers you have!!!

[K&H's mommy]

Sorry Amy, I'm sure your frustrated. Just rest up and take a nice warm bath.

This morning was my last day of work. I was told by a couple people that I've dropped? I didn't drop with my other two so I'm not sure what to think about that. I was also told that I looked puffy. :rolleyes: Wow, thanks. Why is it that everyone thinks they can comment on you when you're pregnant? Some woman at Costco today asked how far apart DS and the baby will be and when I told her she said "so was this one planned?" I mean, is it really your business woman? My DH said I should have told her "well no, all I really wanted was a backrub" :p

Anyway - comparisson belly shots, I think my belly may be a tad lower but maybe just because it's larger and is hanging lower?

34 weeks
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v602/NICU_nurse/34weeks.jpg

36 weeks
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v602/NICU_nurse/IMG_9413.jpg

[isaacsmommy]

So sorry Amy! I know that this has to be really frustrating. :(

[jesseybell]

I can't sleep at all - I know I should be upstairs resting, but I woke up at 5 am wide awake.
My due date is here and I know it will come and go like any other day.....which is actually okay. I want to be a true August Mommy. It is weird to see my ticker say '0 days left'.

Taken last night....
http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j215/jesseybell/40w1.jpg

[babylove]

Amy ~ I'm sorry :(

K&Hsmommy ~ WOW! 2 weeks makes a big difference! You still look fabulous though. And your belly does seem lower to me.

Jessie ~ Happy Due Date!! You look adorable!

***

Today is officially my last day of work. I am covering a hearing b/c no one else could do it. It should only take the morning and then I'm home free! YAY!

[Chimichanga]

Amy - sorry to hear things didn't work out for you :( and fooey on that nurse! Just try to take care of yourself and relax. Mr. man will come soon enough and then you'll get no rest ;)

Jessie - happy due day! Hopefully things will start at like 11:30 so technically it will be an August baby, but still start today. :)

We went to the fair yesterday - mmmmmm delicious. We basically went so I could eat - is that sad or what? :o I had like 8 people ask when I was due. it's so much easier to say "Friday" rather than the whole story. I had one woman tell me to go clean a closet??? Maybe that's a way to induce labor - not sure and never heard that one but whatever.

I got most of the food I wanted to make frozen - one left to do this morning. I start my pre-maternity leave vacation today - and it's nice. Although I did get up with DH and made him breakfast. it's weird; I didn't have to get up this morning and I was wide awake. Every other morning I'm hitting that snooze button like a fiend. Go figure.

[JenniferH]

Congrats Tuesdayschild and welcome Miriam!

[cocoa_femme]

Hi, Ladies. I'm here, and still pregnant. Apparently, my little one is shy. I've had no contrax, just some mild cramping. I don't think we'll be seeing him until next weekend - at best.

Congratulations, Tuesdayschild and welcome to the world, Miriam!

Happy due date, Jessie :).

Amy, sorry for all the trips to L & D. I'm sending labor vibes your way.

[Camdynlyn]

I had a shower yesterday so I'm just back on the computer. Got a lotta goodies. I'm uploading pics now.

[mrstim]

Thanks everyone!!!

Yes, the nurse was a horrible pill - she told me I was not having contrax, that I must be imagining the pain, and when I asked to speak to the other nurse from the day before (we became fast friends) she went and told her that the "little girl" in 15 was asking for her. :eek: I'm over it by now though - I'll just make sure not to get her this time.

I'm not sure what on earth is going on with my body - everything has just come to a total standstill! Yesterday they were 2 minutes apart to the DOT for 3 hours, and then boom - nothing. I had them up till they put the monitors on my belly. :rolleyes: I'm still slightly sore and very swollen down there from I'm assuming the internals and such (they had a lot of trouble finding my cervix each time) but other than that - no contractions at all. I guess things just went kaput. The good thing is taht we know where we're going, know what to expect, and that relieves a little bit of the apprehension. The nurses (minus the one from yesterday) were SO supportive, telling me that I had every right to be irritated, and they hugged me as I left. DH has been great through it all as well, which helps.

I know I have at least 2.5 more weeks until it'll be over - my doctor doesn't want to induce until I'm 40 weeks, and quite frankly I'd much rather go natural too.

So I'm refraining from complaining - using this time to rest, relax, and enjoy my last few weeks of non-mommyhood. I'm sure it's worth it all, but I'm just focusing on the fact that this weekend i DID progress - hey, I'm walking around at 3cm, 75%, which is so much more than a LOT of people at this stage in the game. Plus, it did make me SO thankful to at least be where I'm at when I saw on the monitor that they had one lady there yesterday who was 4cm, heavy contractions, and she was only 26 weeks. Wow.

Anyway - sorry for the "all about me" post, I'll be back in the swing of things shortly. :D Glad everyone is doing so well - we're starting to finally get busy in here!!!! :D

[LTJC]

It's been so long and I'm so behind, but...

Welcome Grant and Miriam!! It's so exciting to hear about the August 2006 babies making early appearances.

mrstim - hang in there. Sounds like you will be holding your baby very soon!

I'd love to see pictures of recent showers, so bring them on!

I hope everyone is dealing with this heat okay. In the Northeast, where we live, it's VERY muggy out, but I'm making sure to drink lots of water and stay inside where it's air conditioned. I'm doing a good job because I can still fit my rings on easily and you can see my ankles clearly.

Tons of contractions lately, but nothing steady for a serious amount of time. So much for the doctor and nurse thinking I would deliver in July. DS just returned from a week long "vacation" with my parents in Boston (where I'm from). DH and I spent quality couples time together and I feel more well rested than I have in umm, approximately 2 years and three months;) They dropped him off this weekend and gifted us with this new MacLaren Triumph http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2267535&cp=2255983.2256189.2256203&view=all&parentPage=family I like my Pliko, but is way too bulky for me to manage at times. I can't wait to use the MacLaren; now I just need a new diaper bag for it:)

Wrapping up work although I will be here until the bitter end. The nursery is pretty much set, infant car seat cleaned and will be installed shortly, newborn clothes freshly laundered, I have the basics (diapers, infant wipes, Dreft, etc.), have gifts for DS and the new baby to exchange when they meet for the first time, and stocked up on lots of food in the freezer for quick meals.

I think I need to write down my current to-do list:

Order and preaddress birth announcement envelopes
Finalize plan for DS when going to the hospital
Finish packing bag
Charge digital and video camera (VC will not be covering l&d, but other moments, yes)
Clean the house - we are putting our place on the market this week!
Pick names!!
Get pedicure


I forgot, but can I brag about DH for a second? He bought me this beautiful watch the other day:http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446129 743&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=282574492704046&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=1408474395222441&bmUID=1154361596676&ev19=1:2

[jesseybell]

I seem to be the walking side show today at work, so now I am hiding out in my cube. We did receive gifts today though!

It is weird because the higher-ups seem to feel better that I am going to work from home and not come into the office.....Why can't they just make a policy to let people work from home once they hit a certain point...but then again not everyone can work from home (like my DH).

TMI - But I had to go stick in a pad (I've been walking around with them in my purse since I got pg in case I started m/cing at work early on) - not leaking fluid by tons of CM that it soaked through to my pants, alot! Could have been pretty embarrassing it anyone had seen. More reasons to not be at work after tomorrow!

[mrstim]

Jessey - Happy Due Date!!!! :D Maybe all that CM means something is shaking up in there!

LTJC - Go hubby!! Love the watch, It's also very hot here - today is 99. Yowza!!!

I just lost my mucous plug! :D

[isaacsmommy]

I got my car to run ...for now at least, still don't know what was/ might still be draining the battery.

Grant had a dr appt this morning as a follow up after his phototherapy treatment.


He is a little piggy! He is up to 8lbs 41/2 oz.
Everything with the jaundice has cleared up, so that is great. Unfortunately, the NP thought she felt a hip click on his left hip so now we have to have an u/s to make sure he doesn't have hip dysplasia. Since I know how to check for a hip click myslef I came home and checked several times, I can't feel one at all, but who knows maybe I missed it :confused: . She did say it would most likely be nothing.

This morning was also my first trip anywhere with the boys by myself. It could have been much worse, but still definately a handful.

MrsTim Yay for losing your plug!!!

Jesseybell HAPPY DUE DATE DAY!!!! Cute belly pic too.

LTJC- Love the watch!

Camdynlyn- Cant wait to see pics from the shower.

cocoa_femme Hope something starts soon for you.

Chimichanga- Thats why I go to the fair to!! Ummm funnel cakes.

Babylove- Congrats on no more work!

[babylove]

Jen ~ Don't feel bad, DH and I got to the circus every year for the sole purpose of me stuffing my face w/ that delicious junk food!

Bree ~ Sorry that baby boy is being shy...hopefully it will happen soon!

Summer ~ Can't wait to see pics!!

Amy ~ I'm so sorry that the nurse was rude even more sorry that your labor stopped...but the progress is very reassuring!!! Buh-bye mucous plug!

LTJC ~ Does your husband want to adopt me? That is a beautiful watch!!

Jessie ~ I seem to be the walking side show today at work I can totally relate. I just want to lock myself in the house until I deliver...I usually don't mind attention, but this is out of control!!

Jenn ~ I hope Grant's hip is ok...and I'm glad he is gaining weight and doing well!

***

Well, I'm officially officially finished with work. I went in from 8:30 to 1:00 and I'm done. :D

It's so hot here, I think I'm just going to stay inside! The hottest day of the week will be Wednesday--my birthday! Figures...I'll be stuck inside allll day.

[isaacsmommy]

Babylove my birthday is Wed as well!! And yeah it will be the hottest day of the week, which sucks cause I wanted to take my boys to the zoo. I'm trying to think of something fun we can go do indoors. Congrats on being done with work!

[UTChick]

babylove and isaacsmommy~ My b-day is on Thursday, which is also duke'sflygirl's c/s date, so I think we should all eat cake or ice cream...or better yet, ice cream cake this week in celebration! Any excuse to eat something sweet, right? ;)

Amy~ I'm sorry that wasn't it yet. And sorry the nurse was so mean. There really is no need for that. Especially the "little girl" comment. That would have boiled my blood! :mad:

Jessie~ Happy due date! Hopefully that baby will come really soon now that we know you will officially be an August mommy!

cocoa~ Hope you are still comfy and that baby decides to join us really soon!


My mom and I spent a lot of time working on things for the nursery this weekend. The shelves have been stained and coated, we finished sewing the slipcover for the desk I am using as a changing table, and we are almost finished sewing the cushions for my great grandmother's rocking chair. I love the chair, it is a simple wooden (maple, I think) rocker but the cushions that went with it were left over from the 70s. So no more orange cushions! I also ironed the crib skirt, so we are ready to put the bedding on now!