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 h