October 2006 Mommies: 3rd Trimester

[bunnybeth]

QC I have to say a massage for pregnancy class sounds lovely.

Bubeleh Congrats on cleaning out the baby's room. It must be nice to have that step done. We're still working on ours...

maternity clothes Most of the summer stuff I have is still too big because the friend who loaned them was due in July and therefore at her biggest in summer. (Mostly larges while the long-sleeve stuff is small and mediums.) Still, she didn't like shorts and I'm finding I need more than the 1 pair I bought so far. So, back to Old Navy...

This weekend is going to be my first prenatal class- breastfeeding. I've decided I want DH to come along, because I don't want to go alone, mostly. He thinks he'll be one of the few men there, but I think most other women will drag their men along as well. I guess we'll see on Saturday afternoon.

Spent much of the weekend cleaning out the house. The loft and spare room (soon-to-be nursery) are coming along nicely, but still have plenty of junk left to go through. At least I've been nesting lately, so I've been working on it pretty much every day, at least a little bit.

March moms already? Time is flying!

[Pamela]

Nails[b], mine have been growing like crazy for months and months now. It seems like all I do is cut my nails because they grow so fast!

[b]Maternity clothes, still on my first set, hoping to just stick with them. My maternity pants are quite roomy, but now that its hot I'm wearing skirts (non-maternity draw-string waist ones) and some of my non-maternity regular shorts are just fine.

[MichelleRenee]

kenswife, sadly, it helps to know I'm not alone. It does hit sometimes during the day, but goes away pretty quickly when I start to get hungry, which is all day up until about 4. I started eating dinner between 4 and 5 when I get home each day and that is usually my last meal for the day because I just feel so full and blah. Thanks for the advice on the sleep. I did wonder if that would be the result.

March 2007 thread... yep, I saw it and smiled. :D Every time a new one goes up I feel like it is a step closer to being the "thread of the month" for us. July moms are well on their way, august will be here before we know it.... then comes September and October! I know I am closer to November.... but it still makes it all feel so real to me!

[MichelleRenee]

And before I forget... I start pregnancy yoga tonight!:D

[Jenzen01]

bunnybeth - I had that same fear about taking DH to our BFing class, but it turned out all the other dads were there, too. I was actually very glad he went because the class was pretty informative about the pros of BFing, so DH came away from the class very supportive of my decision to BF. This helped tremendously in the early weeks when I needed support. He was there to encourage me and help me through the hard times because he knew it was good for DS. Also, DH had never been exposed to BFing ... his mom formula-fed and he didn't know anyone who had BF, so it helped prepare him. When I first told him I wanted him to go the class, he didn't want to (thinking he was going to be the only guy there), but I think he was glad he did in the long run.

[Michelle]

Hi Everybody! I hope you all had a good 4th!

I had a dr. appointment last Friday, everything went well. My next appointment at the end of July will be a busy one. We'll be doing the Rhogam Shot, Appointment, and 1 hour. Unfortunately I have to take the 1 hour again because they did the one at 16 weeks to make sure I did not come into the pregnancy a diabetic so this one is actually the real one to find out if I developed anything during the pregnancy.

My husband and I started our 5 week class last Thursday. It was actually pretty good. It's a great first timers class. We are really learning a lot and not feeling bad because there are a lot of people in the same boat as us (not knowing too much about childbirth) so it was really good. I'm actually looking forward to tomorrow nights class!

Oh and when we were at my appointment on Friday, they gave us the paperwork to fill out for our pre-registration to the hospital. Eeeeks! That hit me like a ton of bricks! Time is going so fast!

The best part of my weekend was Monday. We moved the furniture up to her room over the weekend and then my mom and I got started on decorating. Pottery Barn Kids is dangerous. Stay away if you can! :) I got the cutest carpet for in front of the crib, lamp, butterflies to hang above the changing table, curtain rod, and bed skirt. The room is really starting to look like a nursery. I'm getting so excited! :)

Sorry so long! I hope everybody is having a good Wednesday!

[Mommy2ml]

I just sent in my request/registration form for my BFing class at the hospital. I am going to go alone because they charge more for a couple than for 1 person, so I will just go on my own I think. Trying to save $$ where we can.

I am looking forward to getting and sending in my registration packet for the hospital. Hoping to get that at this next appt I have later today. I have an hour and a half to go at work, then I can leave. It gets so boring here, even with a ton of work to do... I would just rather be off making baby plans LOL

Hoping to get my GTT results later too. Cross your fingers for some good news I hope!

Logan has been so very sctive the past few days. He's bouncing off the walls! LOL Literally :)

Anyone's pants tighter in the afternoon than they are in the morning? I think I grow at lunch or something... not like I can fit enough into my stomach at a time to make that look any bigger, and the waistband on most of my pants now is down by or below the bellybutton... which is already well below my stomach even without it being pushed up by the uterus :p

[MichelleRenee]

Anyone's pants tighter in the afternoon than they are in the morning?

YES! By the time I get home I don't even wear pants anymore. I just close the blinds and sit around in my undies.

[dzmattie]

Hi Ladies -

I think we have decided on Baby Girl's bedding.

http://a293.g.akamai.net/7/293/5910/0010/image1.styleinamerica.com/pkecimgs/images/products/200624/0011/img28l.jpg

I am hoping to get to a Potterybarn kids store to pick it up there and avoid shipping - although I don't want to paint her room yellow - I will probably go with a pale shade of blue...just thought I would share - it is one of our first decisions!!

[Rippy1010]

I'm really quite frustrated with my hospital right now. :mad: My husband works a rotating shift schedule, and so we were trying to do our birth classes on a Saturday all-day version, rather than the "one-night a week for four weeks" version ... because of his schedule he would only be able to make 1 or 2 of the four weeks (depending on how it fell). So, I call to register for one of the Saturdays and they say all of their Saturdays are completely booked until after my due date. Even after I explained my situation, they still wouldn't squeeze an extra couple into one of the classes. This is such crap, because you KNOW that there have got to be people in the Saturday class that don't really NEED to be. I'm just so irritated, and don't really know what to do. :mad: :(

Thanks for letting me vent, girls.

[Rippy1010]

dzmattie ~ That's very pretty!

[Michelle]

dzmattie - That's pretty bedding! :) I love it! You'll love the quality of the bedding, it's fantastic! I don't know, it might be cheaper to order it online and pay shipping. Once you walk into PBK, there's no telling what you'll buy! As I found out last weekend, it's a dangerous, dangerous, store! ;) They have so much cool stuff, it's hard not to buy a lot!

[Mommy2ml]

Michellerenee-LOL. I usually open the pants or pull them down under belly, or change to something like a zipper robe.

DZmattie-very nice!:)

Rippy-check with your doc's office, they sometimes hold classes there too, or might know someone aside from the hospital that does. We took our classes last time with a RN that my MW at the time knows out of a peds office evenings. There are many like that. If you're concerned about the hospital tour that the hospital one has at the end, you can do the hospital tour seperately and for free at most hospitals.

[Ericka_Jarett]

dz - that is really pretty bedding.

Here are some pics I said I would post:
27 weeks ignore the bump, it's just something that was up with the shirt:
http://images1.snapfish.com/347535%3A94%7Ffp33%3B%3Enu%3D3278%3E943%3E%3A57%3E WSNRCG%3D32338%3A977975%3Bnu0mrj[

Bunting, sweater set and blanket my mom's friend had someone make for us.
http://images1.snapfish.com/347535%3A%3B8%7Ffp343%3Enu%3D3278%3E943%3E%3A57%3E WSNRCG%3D32338%3A9779777nu0mrjhttp://images1.snapfish.com/347535%3A%3B8%7Ffp339%3Enu%3D3278%3E943%3E%3A57%3E WSNRCG%3D32338%3A977%3B634nu0mrj
http://images1.snapfish.com/347535%3A%3B8%7Ffp33%3B%3Enu%3D3278%3E943%3E%3A57% 3EWSNRCG%3D32338%3A977%3B629nu0mrj

Outfit that we picked up for little man, which may be for Christmas:
http://images1.snapfish.com/347535%3A%3A8%7Ffp339%3Enu%3D3278%3E943%3E%3A57%3E WSNRCG%3D32338%3A977%3B62%3Bnu0mrj

[MidwesternGal]

dz--Cute bedding!
Ericka--Adorable winter outfit!

Classes--These are going to be a pain for us, too. Our hospital only offers classes on Wednesday nights--which is DH's night to close the store--by himself. Which means that switching nights for 4 weeks in a row is pretty much impossible w/o ticking off pretty much EVERYONE. So. . . . I think I might go by myself to the 3 childbirth classes, and make him come to the 1 caring for newborn class (he'd just take a vacation day). I think the newborn class, in the long run, would be more beneficial to him, since A) I am giving birth and plan to have MANY MEDS! and B) he has very little experience with small babies. What do you all think?

Thanks!

[Ericka_Jarett]

Ok, after calling several stores to see if we could get the ice cream truck cover that is sold out at just about every PBK, I found one out in OH. It's the floor model and they gave me another 30% off of the discounted price of $9.99
So here it is, which we can use to replace the SUV whenever little man wants to play the ice cream man with our friend's sons.
http://a293.g.akamai.net/7/293/5910/0010/image1.styleinamerica.com/pkecimgs/images/products/200624/0010/img69l.jpg

[maplekitty]

rippy - i'd go looking online for other places that ofer classes in your city. Also, if you have mroe than one hospital, call around to them and see if you can get in somewhere else.

[maplekitty]

dxmattie - that's a potterybarn kids collection? i havnt seen that one on the website??

eta: nevermind - found it :p

[dzmattie]

Erika - I love the homemade things that you posted - they are gorgeous! I loved getting handmade blankets and sweaters for DS - they were by far my favorite gifts. And it made me weepy thinking that someone took the time to make them for us...pregnancy emotions! And the little lion outfit is adorable!

Thanks for the compliments on the bedding. I really love it but am pretty determined not to buy things for this baby that we don't need....and I know that the quilt is not necessary at all other than for decoration. We had quilt clips for DS's crib and that was all we did with it was hang it on the wall. So - I am definitely buying the bumper (and probably the quilt to hang :o ) but will use DS's white crib skirt and light blue sheets for the crib. We also have a light blue changing table pad that we will use. So - all in all - it won't be too expensive.

Just in case anyone wants some free recommendations - I LOVE the chamois crib sheet from PBK - it is wonderfully soft, washes great, and fits the crib perfectly. We went through so many "cheaper" sheets from Target and BRU in the $12 to $20 range and all of them shrunk like you wouldn't believe - and got little pills on them and basically I thought they were junky. The PBK one although it is $30 has held up so nicely I will definitely buy one more for Baby Girl....

[Nigellas]

I have no idea how, considering my bedrest, but I’m so behind in this thread!

Maternity clothes: Yeah, I’ve definitely had a problem with the pants not fitting. I actually think it the elastic– I can’t stand the feeling of the thicker band across my belly- I’ve been far more comfortable in stretchy non-pregnancy gauchos and yoga pants. They fit below my belly and the stretch isn’t so big that it cuts into me when I sit like the maternity stuff does.

Erica – I love that lion outfit- Looks so snuggly!

I had a really good past few days – On Monday we had a few friends come over for fireworks and BBQ – I laid on the outdoor lounge the whole time, but it was great having company. Today I say my Peri and he gave me permission to go to the baby store (if someone went with me and pushed me in a wheelchair) so I called my mom and we went to BRU today! I am so happy I was able to go to the store to register. :) Yeay! Now I just need to light a fire under DH to work on the baby room (he wants to redo the drywall- UGH!) so we can buy a crib and whatnot - I don't want to get one before it's done since we don't have much storage space, but the clock is ticking!

[SlvSpring]

Maternity clothes- Mine are still fitting pretty well. It only in the last 4weeks that I have really needed maternity shirts so I have just bought a lot of those recently so of course those are fitting well.

Nails- My nails are actually usually very weak and peel and break easily so they probably seem "normal" now.

My OB appt last week went well. My AFP results were great and so was my ultrasound. Baby's heartbeat was 150. Pretty normal for him, he is usually between 140 and 150. My OB told me I could have sushi which I was THRILLED about so we went out and had a yummy Japanese dinner. My next appt is July 25th and they gave me the paperwork for my glucose test and CBC to check for anemia which I need to get done in the next 2 weeks.

This Saturday we will taking a car seat class and then Thursday the 20th we will taking a class called "You, your baby and your doctors" There is an anestheologist there to talk about pain management and a pediatrician there to talk about what to what to expect from your newborn. I am excited!

We are going to be moving for sure between July 8th and 14th so things are a little crazy here and that's why I haven't been around very much.

Has anybody been browsing in July mom's thread? I must admit, I have. It is so exciting! They are all having their babies.

Have a good week all!

[Michelle]

Has anybody been browsing in July mom's thread? I must admit, I have. It is so exciting! They are all having their babies!

I admit it, I lurk in all the mommy threads when they get close to delivery! Isn't it crazy to think that it will be us in a few months? :D

[MichelleRenee]

I lurk in the those threads too. It is just so exciting to hear of new arrivals almost daily! Especially now because a lot of the people having their babies are all people that got their BFP's after I started posting here. It makes pregnancy seem so fast!

[dzmattie]

Guilty of lurking in the current month threads too....:)

[MichelleRenee]

Oh heck... I lurk in all the threads from 2006 hoping to see pics of all the babies. I'm addicted.

[Jenzen01]

Oh gosh, I lurk on all the threads. :)

OK. I felt like a total pregnant woman this morning. I got out of bed and had round ligament pain shoot down my right side and joint pain shoot down my left butt cheek/lower back. I hobbled out of bed.

Quartercentury - I'm too lazy to go back and look ... how can I manage this back/joint/butt pain thing? What am I doing that's aggrevating it so much? Any suggestions would be appreciated. I bought an excercise ball this weekend, so maybe I'll start using that ...

I was trying to get Gabe to say our girl names, and now everytime I ask him where Ada is, he points at my belly and says, "baby." It's really sweet. He kisses my belly, too. Awwwww .....

[TaterBaby]

Here's my 27 week belly shots:

http://images1.snapfish.com/34753%3C946%7Ffp345%3Enu%3D3233%3E7%3B7%3E482%3E23 247%3B75737%3A8ot1lsi

http://images1.snapfish.com/34753%3C946%7Ffp345%3Enu%3D3233%3E7%3B7%3E482%3E23 247%3B75737%3B2ot1lsi

Now you ladies have me curious about the July thread. I'm off to lurk...

[Mommy2ml]

quick update... lots of work to get through today :P

Doc appt yesterday afternoon:

GTT results normal
Iron normal
CBC normal
I have a mild YI (she Rx'd an external cream for now)
I am starting my every 2 weeks appts now!
Induction will be on or before EDD. I am going to push for the first week of Oct. She mentioned possibly the last week in Sept though. More plans to come on that as we get closer - mostly based on baby's growth and health and my overall health too.

next appt 7/19
next u/s still 7/24

Oh hey... the annoying guy at work that was giving me so many headaches? He got canned yesterday. Now it's so quiet I almost need some music on just to think again LOL

Also work related - they hired a new f/t person in the dept. This likely means I will not have a f/t position to go back to... maybe a p/t one if I chose, but not f/t. Rob thinks that's great, I think it could be an issue with expenses... like you have to pay for f/t child care for babies even if they are only there a few hours a week kwim? We'll see though. I honestly kinda still dislike working here, but have nice commission checks coming to me quarterly, so it might just be worth it in that way... I don't know yet... more calculations to do :P I hate math!

[bunnybeth]

Jenzen That's exactly what I was hoping. DH was thinking since most men he talked to didn't go to prental appointments, they wouldn't be at a BF class. Now I can assure him he won't be alone. :)

Mommy2ml That's too bad they charge more for the couple for the BF class. The only class my hospital charges for both is CPR.

dzmattie Great set, I love the PBK look.

Rippy Very frustrating! There's got to be one couple that ends up missing or whatever almost every week, I'd think.

Ericka Very cute baby stuff. I love the lion outfit especially.

Nigellas So nice that you were able to take a BRU trip and register. It must have been refreshing to get out of the house after the weeks of bedrest.

I lurked around the June thread last month. (But I did share a first trimester with them.) It was exciting to see how their babies turned out.

Ok, last night I had more pink spotting, still a small amount, but as it was 9pm I ended up paging the dr on call. She told me to come in today to get checked out (if it got worse I was supposed to go to the ER) and I've just been waiting for the office to open. I guess I'll just wrap things up here and make my call.

[Nigellas]

Bethany, I'll be thinking about you! Pls update us when you can.

[Mommy2ml]

bunnybeth - I hope all is well!

[Ericka_Jarett]

I just got in from 1st appt of the day, my OB. I waited almost an hour, she said she was going to find out why others were in before me since I was there at 8:37 for my 8:30 appt, she kept apologizing for the delay and was going to get to the bottom of it. Other than that, she said that I am measuring perfect, my weight was 1 lb down, which was fine, b/p was at 130/80 but she said that was still normal (before I went I took it at home and it was 118/80, so it's havig to wait that made it go up.) Heartbeat sounded great and she said that I was still staying with the every 2 week for a few more weeks until I go to every week. I got my CBC and antibody blood draws today, not too bad only 2 vials, no more shots or draws or anything for 2 more weeks.

I will be heading to the Peri in a little while, hope to report good news from there as well now.

Life will be busy the next 2 weeks as we get ready for vacation Bible school at my church. I am the director so we have decorating week all next week and than VBS the week after.

Bunnybeth - hope things are fine and the spotting was nothing, maybe just an irritation of sorts. Thakns for the comments on the outfit.

[marathongirl]

I am so far behind!

The belly shots look GREAT!

bunnybeth - I hope everything turns out OK! Let us know!

nigellas - glad you got to get out of the house a bit!

Yeah for all those good appt reports! My GTT is Monday morning. I don't think my OB office starts two week appts until 32 weeks, especially if you're low risk.

Count me in with those surprised to see the March 2007 thread! It will be a happy/sad day when I see the Sept 2007 thread start since DD was a Sept 2004 baby. Yes, I also lurk in the other threads since a lot of people I talk to from the Sept 2004 thread are having their 2nd/3rd babies already.

Hope everyone is well!

[MichelleRenee]

bunnybeth, I hope the spotting turns out to be nothing!!

Ericka_Jarett, I'm glad everything went well with your appt!

I have still had an upset stomach. All week it's just on and off. I am worried about my 1 hour GTT tomorrow morning because if I am already nauseous there is no way I will be able to drink all that sugary stuff!

[Mommy2ml]

one thing I would add... to check with your hospital if they provide those mesh panties first, or just pack your own big comfy panties in your bag. I know my hospital did not have them or anything like it at all and I was glad I had packed a few pair of my own.

Might also add a phone card. Check with your hospital, but most of the time calls outside the hospital's zip code you cannot make without a calling card, and most hospitals do not permit cell phone use. Ours came in handy iirc.

Also, I noted that from my bed unless I kept the curtain open (if you have to share rooms with others, closing the curtain is the only way for privacy when they have visitors) I could not see the clock in the room. It did not matter much to me, but the nurses were always asking when the baby ate and I could not tell them because I could not see the clock. They say not to wear watches or jewlery in the hospital, so I plan to bring a little travel clock to keep on my nightstand thing next to my bed so I can tell then when baby ate last if they must know :)

One other thing... a folder or accordian folder thingy. You're gonna be getting a ton of papers and magazines, and literature and samples and you're going to be looking for places to put it all so you can find it when you get home... I plan to bring an accordian style filer so I can file things away and find them later when I need them. With DD I just stuffed it all in plastic bags, they broke al over the floor of the car, the ones that made it wound up all over the livingroom the first few weeks and basically it was a mess and we were finding coupons and samples long after expiration :p

HTH! :)

[Jenzen01]

Grrrr .... I just lost a nice, long post.

Let's see if I can remember everything.

First of all, Ericka, that's one great list! Nice job. I think we have the most informative front pages on the whole board. :D

Here's some additions to the list. I did overpack, but we actually used these items:

phone cards - Our hospital has a policy against cells. Check out what your hospital prefers.

thank-you notes for staff - Gabe was born close to Christmas, so I wrote out a few cards for our nurses and dr. Our nurses were fantastic, and I wanted to leave them something nice.

baby book - If you have one beforehand, the nurses will stamp baby's footprints right in the book.

birthing ball - I intend to bring this this time around. I just bought one and our hospital doesn't provide them.

A few notes:

My hospital provides pads, diapers, wipes, nursing balm and a bunch of other stuff. You might want to check on what's provided before packing everything.

Socks - Our hospital provided gripper socks, but they were really tight on my ankles so we had to cut the elastic. I might bring my own this time. Just make sure they're gripper socks for walking the halls.

If you have long hair, BRING A PONYTAIL HOLDER!!! I had the worst rat's nest of my life after laboring. Took me several episodes with the conditioner bottle and an hour of combing to get it out. I also forgot my comb at home so I had to use the hospital-issued fine-toothed comb. Painful.

Oh, and I'm going to throw a sports bra or something like that in my bag in case I can use the whirlpool.

If I think of anything else, I'll be back!!

[Mommy2ml]

oh yeah -I loved the slipper socks! I brought 2-3 pair, one for during L&D and a couple to switch off with afterwards while in the hospital... tht way you don't need to find the slipper sthat got kicked across the room or unde ryour bed, they are comfy on your feet and one less thing to worry about :) I also wore them at home fo rthe first week or 2 daily, my feet did not feel like anything else, so I was either barefoot or had those on.:) (I also got ones with Pook and tigger and eyore - I still have them and MAckie loves to see me where them LOL)

Oh yeah, most hospitals have breast pumps you can use and give you new disposable parts to use with the compressor part, so it's totally sterile and you don't have to worry about bringing your pump home intact with all the pieces :)


I don't want to start a new debate about this.... nut for anyone having a Bris for your son, have you begun looking into Mohel's yet? I am undecided between 2. One is one of my OBs and the other is recommended by a friend and he is a board cert. Urologist. I am leaning towards the urologist for obvious reasons.... How soon should I clal for more info and to let hem know around when I am due?

[Ericka_Jarett]

Thanks Jenzen about the front page. Figured since it is our last trimester thread, that stuff would be informative.

Thanks for the suggestions on the list, many of them were already on the list. Since some are doing home birth, others birthing centers and others hospitals, hard to have an all inclusive list. Plus with hospitals all are different in what they provide, I know mine didn't provide a lot, so we were just planning ahead last time. Think we may be getting the bag packed and ready shortly, just in case we have an early d-day. Will most likely be in September as originally thought.



Well just got in from my 2nd appt. I swear it was forget Ericka day. I was the first one there for the 1pm rounds, 3 others came in after me and all got called to the desk but me. I just came from the restroom and saw the 3rd lady up there (the other 2 had been called back already) and I said I was the first one here but never called. She asked if I had signed in, said I did and pointed to my name that was crossed off the list already. She had my chart to her right instead of behind her for getting called into the office.

Tech comes in and she didn't say it loud enough, but she wanted to get a urine sample (they never do that at the peri's office with me) so I came back to the room she said did you do a sample, I said I didn't know I had to, and I can't go again since I went just before I went this last time. She had me undress from the waist down (unusal since usually they do the measurements u/s first and than have me get undressed) oh well.

She is looking at the head and spine, h/b was 122 she said that was within range so it was good. Said the heartbeat looked good and than she was going to wipe the gel off. Hubby said you should check the kidneys since I was on Indocin which causes a reduction in the baby's urine output. So she said well I usually wouldn't look for that, but I will try. (Hubby would have had a fit had she not done it after telling her to) She showed us both and said they looked good. She does the vaginal scan and tells the nurse in the room to get the doctor. I immediately know that's not good news. He comes in looks over my chart, asked how many weeks I am and said your other baby was 24 weeks right. He said well we have 3 weeks on that, so that's good. He proceeded to check and said the cervix was open more inside, but that the outside is still really tight and the ring is holding nicely. He said my cervix is starting to funnel, but the ring is preventing it from opening to the outside. Asked the tech if she did the 2 checks since I was on Indocin, she said no, what 2 checks, so he did them, one was the kidneys and the other was amnio fluid. He told her, you always do them if someone was on Indocin. He wants me to come back in 3 weeks for a follow-up. He said the baby is definately growing and he will do measurements at the next u/s to see just how big this little man is. He said he has some weight on him now. He asked how big at the last u/s and I said he was 1 lb 7 oz, he said he is well over 2 lbs now. Around 14.5 inches long, so my ticker is pretty accurate. Hubby asked him about steroid shots and the doctor said he was actually going to suggest them after seeing the next u/s in 3 weeks. Since I will be 30 weeks at that time, he said they will be a greater benefit at that point. So following that u/s he will probably write a script for me to go to the hospital and get the 2 steroid shots. He agrees each week we get the better, so he would like us to get to at least 34 weeks, I told him we would like at least 37, so we are both in agreement about doing what we can to get there and if the steroid shots are going to help, in case we have an early delivery, we are going to do them.

[jbemommy]

Back from my appt. My BP was great, and it has been for a week now. Don't know why it was so high for a while. He's still seeing me in two weeks but probably won't do an u/s then unless my BP goes back up. I have the lab slip for GTT, hemoglobin, and antibody test before I get Rhogam. I am not looking forward to that, I really hated that shot last time. Next appt. 7/18.
My ankles are starting to be swollen now--ever since we watched fireworks on July 4th.

[PinkMartini]

Just got home from my appt.

All went well, gained 7lbs in 5 weeks (almost 6) which she said was ok, but maybe I should cut down on the carbs. Got info on birthing classes (start Aug 1st) and more info on hospital policy. I also got my paperwork for the dreaded Gestational Diabetes Test :( I'll have to go sometime next week (when I have a day off of work). I am NOT looking forward to it. The nurse at my dr's office was telling me that it's like a thick Karo syrup drink they make you take :eek: Ewwwww just thinking about it makes me wanna puke. Listened to the heartbeat, all was normal. I asked her about another u/s and she said if everything goes good, there won't be another one. So this 3d/4d u/s we're going to be having this month will be the last one.....

QOTD: If you are planning on taking childbirthing classes, how did your DH react? Did he protest going at all? Or was he all for it? And how many classes did you go to?

I ask because my DH is already trying to get out of it :eek: I'm like, "Bud, you are going, no if's ands or butts. You will be in the delivery room supporting me and neither of us have ever done this before" and then he jokingly tells me I should tape it for him :rolleyes: I realize he'll probably be uncomfortable around all these other pregnant women, but come on. This is his child too. Our hospital does a 6 week long series, for 2 hours a week.

Threadmistress: Next appt is July 27th

[Ericka_Jarett]

My OB mentioned the class today to us. She said it's something to consider within the next few weeks, since we never got to one last year. I have to see if our insurance will cover it. I would probably want it to be finished before the end of August, since I will probably deliver in Sept. Hubby just worries about me having to be sitting for so long, since I should be laying down now more with my cervix. He wasn't against it, just concerned for me.

[Nigellas]

Yikes, Erica! Did you Dr put you back on bedrest?

[Ericka_Jarett]

Nigellas - I have been on bedrest actually since I got the ring put in back 5 weeks ago. Now just a bit more strict, lay down as much as possible. I just keep trying to tell myself at least 10 more weeks. Doctor said anything past 30 is good, 34 we are pretty much in the clear. Hubby and I were talking and I said wonder if my labor is going to be as fast as Rebekah's was, my body didn't have time to stretch or anything she came out so fast, but she was also only 1 lb 3 oz and 24 weeks. At least for now knowing that this little boy is over 2 lbs and 27 weeks makes me feel a bit better. Still telling him to stay put for a while longer though.

Did your doctor say anything to you about steroid shots? I didn't know about them until I found out about them from 2 ladies on the infant loss board, they had them in their latest pregnancies since they were on bedrest. You get 2 steroid shots in 24 hours. It's to help speed up the lungs and other organs development, so in case the baby comes early, it's more mature. I didn't know if about them at all, and didn't know if the peri was going to say anything, so hubby mentioned it while he asked if we had any questions.

[maplekitty]

qotd - childbirthing classes

Around her they are called prenatal classes and really go more into detail about all things pregnancy and childbirth. It is put on by the Health Authority in our city and includes the hospital tour.
DH is all for it. We start in late August and finish up in mid September - last class they had left with a spot open - yikes guess I signed up way late! Oh well, i just moved to this city!

[MichelleRenee]

HELP! I think I just did something dumb. I got lost on my way home from an office I had to stop at today and had to stop at the gas station for gas or I wouldn't make it home. I was so mad to be lost I consoled myself with a candy bar... a king sized Hershey bar. I told myself that because I have my 1 hour GTT tomorrow I would only eat a little bit of the candy bar, but then I ate the whole thing!!

Am I going to fail now?

[Ericka_Jarett]

Try to relax MichelleRenee. What people don't realize is that candy bar sugar doesn't raise your blood sugar as much as other types of items with sugar in them. I know you hate needles but it will be ok really. You still have a good chance of passing the GTT. Try not to think about it, what will be will be. Hoping for you that you pass it though.

[MichelleRenee]

Well that makes me feel better. To be honest, I am also a little scared that I am going to be "yelled at" for eating too much sugar every day. I am so bad. Why don't I have more self control?

[Rippy1010]

QOTD - Childbirthing Classes.

I didn't actually present it to DH as an option. I just kind of planned it around his (awful, hectic) schedule, and he seems fine with it. I did give him the option of "newborn care" classes, and he actually WANTED to do that. So, I would vote that he is "all for it". :)

[SlvSpring]

Ericka- wow, what an appt. I am so glad that you and your DH were very informed and knew the right things to ask, that seems like it helped so much. I will be thinking about you and hope that your little boy will allow himself more time "baking"! ;)

childbirth classes- We are both going. I think it starts in late August or early September. I would say he is "all for it" to because he hasn't protested at all. We are also going to take a couple of other classes too and he seems just as excited as I am.

[Quartercentury]

Quartercentury - I'm too lazy to go back and look ... how can I manage this back/joint/butt pain thing? What am I doing that's aggrevating it so much? Any suggestions would be appreciated. I bought an excercise ball this weekend, so maybe I'll start using that ...
My yoga teacher said that the pain is usually from putting too much pressure on the sacrum/ tailbone (here (http://sprojects.mmi.mcgill.ca/postabdwall/image-vertebrae2a-sacrum.jpg) is a really good diagram of the bones/joints at the back of the pelvis/base of the spine), usually due to slouching. So I am trying to sit up straight (Hi, Dad!) to put my body weight directly on my "sit bones" rather than the backs of these bones and the sacrum. But she also said that it can be like SPD in the back, so uneven use/pressure/angles of the legs can aggravate it. I have been sitting on the ball at work for about a week now, and it's generally bothering me less, but I still feel pain in the joint (only on the left, though!) when I get out of bed in the morning. I am going to try sleeping with a pillow between my knees. I will ask my doctor some more about it when I see him this afternoon.

... have you begun looking into Mohel's yet? I am undecided between 2. One is one of my OBs and the other is recommended by a friend and he is a board cert. Urologist. I am leaning towards the urologist for obvious reasons.... How soon should I clal for more info and to let hem know around when I am due?

The mohel I know is used to people not calling until their babies have already arrived, unless the parents are members of the congregation (he's also the cantor, but is the only mohel within a huge area for New England, so lots of strangers!). I would suspect most people (extrapolating from my sample of one!) don't plan ahead for that kind of thing, since you never really know when the baby will be born. But if you're already talking induction, I bet your mohel would appreciate a heads-up.

Childbirth classes - we will be doing these in August. I don't think it ever occurred to me that FH wouldn't want to come. I would have been really insulted if he had whined/tried to get out of it. We've already had the massage class, which was really for the men to learn how to be good masseurs, and my yoga class this week and next is for couples, so he's doing a good job of getting involved. Now I just have to get him to read Ina May's Guide to Childbirth and we'll be all set...

[Mommy2ml]

Erika - I hate when the techs/staff at the dr seem clueless! :P

For the class, you ould speak with the instructor before it starts and let her know your sitch. I am sure she might be able to modify a bit for your comfort/safety, as well as let you know what exercises (they go over some usually for getting through labor and preparing for it) you should not try.

Steroid shots. I have not had to have them myself. They seem to do them for those at high risk for preterm delivery. Thoise I know who had them, it seemed to help tremendously with making sure baby can have functioning outside the womb ealier than usual. Definitely helps from what I hear.

childbirth classes and DH - first time around we went. DH wanted to go because he hates being clueless about things LOL He got a lot from it, we both did. This time he says he thinks it's a waste of $$ to go for a refresher though. Last time I got an epidural and barely used any of it, so he thinks the same is likely to happen this time. :P

Pinkmartini - you may want to remind your DH that these classes are normally attended by hubby and wife... his NOT being there would be considered strange to the other DHs there. Assure him that people attend the clases as couples and there will be likely as many men as there are women there. (other than those with DHs out of the area or same sex couples, single moms to be, etc, if the DH is in the piucture and able, he tends to go as a way to educate himself and show support for his wife)

MichelleRenee - Remember that anything you eat affects your blood sugar, but only for a few hours. If you ate a chocolate or candy bar yesterday, then 10-12 or more hours later get the GTT test, it is not going to still be affecting your blood sugar at that point. Now if you ate one within an hour or 2 of the test, that would not be the greatest LOL

QC - Thanks... sinc ehte B-Day is set to be right around thehigh hoildays and Sukkot, I figured it would be better to give more notice if/when possible... but I don't want to call months ahead and seem like a nut kwim? LOL

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

More and more of the general aches and pains and feeling the tired from the time I wake to the time I pass out at night feeling :P

I feel like I should be doing something more to get ready for baby, but there's nothing right this minute that needs doing that CAN be done right now... I have to wait for the $$ to come in end of this month from my commission check.. then I can get the furniture from IKEA and get things set-up an dthen really get started on the pre-washing of the clothes and then get on Rob's back about the change area, etc. Till then we're just sitting and waiting pretty much.

QOTD-
I saw in a magazine how it's possible that the sex of the baby is that of the less stressed parent at the time of conception. Thought t might be fun to see how often that's true? So were you or DH/FH/SO more stressed at time of conception? and if you know if your're on blue or pink team, is baby's sex corresponding with whomever was less stressed?

I know I was less stressed when we conceived Mackie. I wanted a baby so much and was just so happy and relaxed to be DTD without protection. Rob was totally terrified of the possibilities, future, having to grow up, etc LOL

This time, I was pretty stressed, having just ad a m/c the previous month, I was worried I might have another one, worried about the possibility of never having more babies, worried about there possibly being something wrong with me, etc... In the mean time, Rob says he was just sitting back relaxed, he's already a daddy and knows what goes into it, he's not worried about giving up more or whatever, it's just one more baby to love, so he was just going with the flow so to speak and not stressing about it all. And we're having a boy!

I would love to hear your take on it! :)

[Rippy1010]

Mommy2ml ~ The theory works in our sitch, too. I was going to school FT, plus working FT, and am basically just a more stressed individual than DH. He had nothing to stress over ... and it was a weekend. He had NOTHING to do, and I had tons of homework to do. And, we are having a boy. Very interesting. But, I don't want all boys ... I'll need to be less stressed the next time around. LOL!

[Rippy1010]

I just made my appointment for my 3d/4d u/s. We are getting that done on August 7th. I'm excited! I think it will be fun. This is what all we get in our package:

* Limited Diagnostic Ultrasound (2d) ... about 15 or so minutes
* DVD video session of the ultrasound with background music
* 3D & 4D ultrasound session ... about 25 minutes or so
* 4 4x4 b&w pics
* 4 4x5 color pics

Also, if the baby is too big to get very good pictures (since I'll be 32 weeks), they will do what they can and discount my package price. OR, if they can't get ANY good pictures, they said they wouldn't charge me at all. I'll be disappointed, but at least I won't be out the money ALSO.

[Ericka_Jarett]

I wasn't stressed when I conceived Rebekah or this baby actually. I almost missed the time. Hubby asked me what day I was on and than realized that I was due to O in about 5 days, we covered our bases and then went into slow down mode after I O'd.


Steroids - I know several of the ladies on bedrest actually got the steroid shots and are glad they did, so we are comfortable with the decision and than with talking to the peri about it, made it even better. I think he may have been a little surprised that we even knew about it. I hope we can keep this little guy from having to go to NICU at all should he arrive before the right time.

Classes - I looked over the list the hospital has and it's actually $10 less and 1 week less than what the paper at the OB's office says, it's 2 hours a night for 4 weeks. I mentioned it to Jarett so got to check with the insurance about covering it and we will take them in August, since that is the next spots with opening, than the next are in Sept-October which of course is too late for me, since I will have a due date before the last class.

[MichelleRenee]

I just got back from my 1 hour GTT. It was alright. The drink wasn't horrible, but it wasn't something I would choose to drink. I hate artificial orange flavoring.

I met the second doctor out of the 3 in their office. She was really nice. That is a relief because I chose my doctor specifically so I could have a doctor I like during L&D and I would be mad if I got stuck with one I hate. I meet the last one at my next appointment and hopefully I will like him too.

Everything looks great with me and the baby. She said my weight, blood pressure, urine and uterus are all right where they should be and the baby's heartrate is 140.

My next appointment is August 7.

Stress: I think I was more stressed at the time on conception because I was 3 days away from starting a new job... my first in the field I was going to school for. So Mike was less stressed and it's a boy!

[TaterBaby]

Just returned from my 1 hr GTT also. The drink didn't taste so bad, I just didn't like having to drink it so quickly. I drank it at home and then finished getting ready and barely gave myself enough time to get there. I tried to remain calm and hopefully I'll pass with no problems. I see why some offices make you drink it there and then sit for an hour though.

I'm up 5lbs from last month for a total of 12lbs. My OB said that was great and if I continue to be careful and eat healthy, I'll have no problem losing it all soon after the baby. I love how I have her fooled that I'm being careful. :D I rewarded myself with a Chick-fil-A chicken biscuit on the way to work.

I now have appointments every two weeks! Next one is July 21st.

[Pamela]

QOTD, classes, still haven't given any thought to it.

QOTD, stress/sex of baby, neither of us were stressed out when we conceived our girl.


Last night dh had some fun playing with the baby -- he'd jiggle my belly right about where her feet are to see if she'd kick back, and she did!! A bunch of times too, he'd give her a jiggle and then *thump* she'd kick him back! We just laughed and laughed :D

[Rippy1010]

Pamela ~ word of warning about the classes ... they fill up really fast! I thought I was planning ahead, and all of the classes I wanted were already full. :( So, if you decide that you do want to do them, you may have to call very soon.

Also, with the "kicking" game ... now I don't feel so bad. LOL! I was doing that the other night, too. I would tap-tap-tap, and then he'd kick back. Then, DH would say a few words and stop, and he'd kick. Talk again, kick again. The things we do to amuse ourselves at home. :p

[Bubeleh]

Classes The majority of ours start in Mid-August (first being CPR) and DH didn't have a option not to go. The one I have already attended I took my mom since DH was traveling on business, but every other dh was there.

Mohel We contacted ours and just gave him the expected due date. Since its around the high holy days we wanted to get our information to him quickly.

Stress/Sex of the Baby I'm always the more stressed person, and surpirse, we are having a boy!

My next interview just walked in so I'll come back to update soon!

[maplekitty]

qotd - stress=sex of baby -

I don't know if i was "stressed" persay, but very anxious with the whole baby-making process! I just wanted to finally get pregnant!! However, if I recall the actuall date of conception, we were both a little tipsy, and just having a good time - so neither of us was "stressed".

[Jenzen01]

Hi all,

Glad to hear about all the positve appointments.

Stressed/Sex - I was probably more stressed than DH at the time because we were trying to conceive after a miscarriage. However, I don't really remember.

Classes - How much are you all paying for your classes? If I remember right, our BFing class and baby basics class were about $15 a couple and the 4-week birthing class was $35 or something like that.

Work has me completely fed up with everything. I can't even get through a conversation with my boss without crying. I am so darn emotional this pregnancy that it's embarrassing. I just want October to be here so I can get away from the office politics.

Quartercentury - Thanks for the tips. I talked to my lacatation consultant a little this morning, and she recommended a physical therapist at my hospital who specializes in women's problems if it gets any worse.

Movement - My little girl stops kicking when DH puts his hand on my belly. I told him that he's going to be the one who's able to calm her down. :)

I just hit a rummage sale on my noon hour (It's Old Car Show weekend in our town and it's an absolute zoo here ... rummage sales everywhere in conjunction with the car show. 150,000 people descend on this little town of 1,000 ... don't get me started about the traffic situation.) Anyway, I got some cute dresses, which makes me happy. I needed that after my morning here at work.

ttfn,
Jen

[Rippy1010]

Jen ~ Re: Cost of Classes ... our Newborn care class is $25/couple, and our Childbirthing Class is $80/couple. The maternity tour is free. I think the BFing class is either $15/couple or $20/couple ... but not positive since I'm not taking it.

[MidwesternGal]

Tomorrow I'm officially in the 3rd trimester!! Yay!!

Classes--Our prenatal and newborn classes are free. However, DH cannot attend them, as he works the ONLY night they are offered, and it would relaly screw up his whole workplace schedule (and everyone else's). So I think he'll just go to the one newborn class instead. I plan on meds, so I think it'll be okay that I just go to the prenatal classes.

Movement--That's cool about how your babies respond to you! Mine doesn't do anything like that! :( No fair! My placenta is in front, and I have some "padding" to boot, so maybe that has something to do with it.

Baby Gender/Stress--DH had just had a week's vacation from work, so while I can't say my stress level, his was definitely lower. . . and yup, it's a boy!

____________
My sister mailed the baby shower invites out! Yay! It is for the 16th. It's somewhat early, but she leaves for the Peace Corps on the 26th and wanted to be included in baby stuff before she leaves.

It's going to be HOT here this weekend!! Other than that. . . not much news. Glad to hear everyone is passing their diabetes tests! Question: Does the amt. of weight gained indicate if I'll pass or not? Because I've put on quite a bit of weight (hovering around 20 lbs so far) and I'm quite nervous! But I do walk the dog/play with the dog everyday--does excercise help?

Question: What is the Rhogam test? My doc hasn't said a word about it!

[Ericka_Jarett]

Rhogam - it's if you are Rh negative. I am A- so need to get the shot, it will prevent illness should the baby be + and our blood gets mixed during delivery. If you are a positive blood type you don't need it.

Childbirth classes are $90 a couple here. Just found out insurance pays up to $50 for it. I plan on having meds with this birth as well. Wish I could find more info out on the hospital site about the class to know if it's even worth it to attend, since I have been through delivery before (although I hardly remember what happened aside from crying the whole time)

Shower - well was hoping for one around 30 weeks but with the new issue of bedrest may have to wait until 34 weeks or even after little man shows up, so would be in late October/early November if that's the case.

GTT - no real way to know what will help, it's best not to try to trick the test, just eat as you normally would and do whatever you normally do. If you do have GD, better to treat it than not and have a really big baby or other complications from not being treated.

[TaterBaby]

Classes: I just called and signed up today. Thank you ladies for reminding me! We're going every Thursday night in August and it's $50. It's called "prenatal classes" and covers both childbirth and newborn care. DH wasn't thrilled about going, but knew better than to try to back out. However, our close friends signed up for the same classes and now he's very excited to have a guy friend there. I do fear that they'll be cutting up and acting silly together though. :rolleyes:

The breastfeeding class is only one night and it's $15 or $25 with The Nursing Mother's Companion.

Baby gender/stress: I don't think either one of us were particularly stressed, although I do tend to be the more stressed one in general.

[jbemommy]

Waaaah! My GTT level was 149, just above the cutoff. That's what happened last time, too, and I passed the 3 hour then. So hopefully it'll be ok, but that 3-hour thing is *such* a pain!

Stress I'm always more stressed than DH since I'm the worrier in the family, and we had a girl last time. So not predictive for us.

[marathongirl]

jbemommy - sorry about your 1-hr GTT!

classes - the refresher class at our hospital is two consecutive Tuesday nights for $65. Not very convenient when you also need to hire a sitter. We may skip it since I just gave birth 2 years ago.

I am too far behind to do individual SO's so just a big hello to everyone! DD has been SUPER clingy the last few days.

[PinkMartini]

Man, I'm so jealous of you ladies that have such supportive DH's. I get irritated SO easily these days and him trying to get outta going is really bugging me. He brought it up again today... "None of my co-workers EVER went to any childbirthing classes, they all think it's hooey." Ok hunny, but we ARE GOING :mad:

Classes - How much are you all paying for your classes? If I remember right, our BFing class and baby basics class were about $15 a couple and the 4-week birthing class was $35 or something like that.

Our's is a 6 week series (Tuesday nights) and costs $95 for the series. BFing class and infant care are included in that. Insurance doesn't pay for any of it :(

[Ericka_Jarett]

Pink - I would tell him, how can they know it's hooey, if they never went to it. They don't know the first thing about what was taught. Tell him, he goes this time and he won't have to go the next time. :)

[MichelleRenee]

Classes: Our 4 part prenatal class is $20 and our breastfeeding class is $10. That price is per couple.

[maplekitty]

Totally TMI QUESTION coming up - but I really need to post this!

For the past week or so, when i go to the washroom...I've noticed a "smell" down there....it kind of smells like when I would get my period - like a "bloody" smell. I havn't been bleeding at all, not once since getting BFP. I've tried wearing pantyliners...but still I can smell it. Is this normal...do I just have a highened sense of smell, and I can smell my placenta (?!??!). Is anyone else getting this???

[Ericka_Jarett]

maplekitty - I haven't had that type of smell, I would just place a call to your doctor to see what they say, could be the start of an infection or just nothing. Your sense of smell is heightened during pregnancy though. You shouldn't be able to smell your placenta, you cervix is closed . For my own piece of mind I would call the doctor just to be safe.

[Pamela]

Just dropping off my 27 week pic

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y145/MrsPamela/Baby/27weeks3days.jpg

[MichelleRenee]

I had a bit of a scare today. I was sitting in the driver's seat of my car with my nephew in the back seat. He asked me what the blue thing back there was, so I turned around to see what he was talking about and had the sharpest pain in my abdomen right by my hip bone. It hurt for about 20 seconds really, really bad. It was just a very sharp pain and it scared the heck out of me. I've been fine since and I think I might have just stretched a little too far, but it was scary.

An hour later I was driving down the road and realized I hadn't felt Tristan kick for awhile so I gave my belly a little poke and he started moving around like crazy. He has definitely been less active during the day and more active at night. He is the most active when I lay on my side. He always kicks the side that is "up" as if the way I am laying is making him uncomfortable and he wants me to move.

Yesterday for the first time If elt him jump when he heard a sudden loud noise. That was funny too. It is crazy how in a few short weeks I went from feeling that "bubbly" feeling inside and wondering if it was him to feeling such a range of movements, kicks, bumps, and hiccups!

[marathongirl]

pamela - great belly shot! You've been so diligent about posting them! I hope to get one up tomorrow.

maplekitty - I'd give my OB the heads up, just in case.

michellerenee - scary driving situation! Our K2 is also something of a night owl. I think I get the most kicks from 12am - 3am. I hope this isn't indicative of things to come :rolleyes: .

Hope everyone is doing well!

[Pamela]

movement, this kiddo is either shy or mischevious -- whenever I stop to look at my belly and watch it jump around (this amuses me to no end!), she stops! She's very active in the morning and when I go to bed, and I've been noticing lately that in the middle of the night she wakes up too. She also seems to get hiccups a lot, makes me feel kinda bad for her. As soon as I lay down, she starts kicking, but hardly moves at all if I'm up moving around.

jbemommy, sorry about your 1 hour GTT :( Hope the three hour goes better!

Maplekitty, I'd definately mention that to your doctor. It might be nothing at all, but it never hurts to ask. I can tell you from experience working OB, pregnant women just have a certain 'pregnant' smell. Gee I feel just lovely writing that :rolleyes:

Marathongirl, I make my dh take several pics every week!

[Rippy1010]

michellerenee ~ I had something like that happen on Thursday night - but it happened when I stood up from sitting on the sofa. Then, I had a few more in the middle of the night when I would be switching sides to get comfortable. The next morning I noticed that I hadn't felt little Logan kicking since the night before. I called my doctor just to be safe, and they said that it was a type of round ligament pain. Shortly after the phone call, he started kicking up a storm. :rolleyes: If only he had done that sooner, I wouldn't have been so concerned. LOL! That's cool that you felt the baby "jump" from being startled ... I haven't gotten to feel that yet. But, he did respond to some music that I had playing in the car the other day ... almost like he liked the song because when the song was over, he stopped. LOL! It was fun.

[PinkMartini]

QOTD: How in the world do you guys tell the difference between kicks/punches & hiccups?

[Ericka_Jarett]

Taken from a site I found.

Fetal hiccups typically begin sometime during the second trimester. You may notice hiccups as a small, repetitive and rhythmic movement that occurs for a few minutes at a time in your belly. Many women actually enjoy the sensation of their baby's hiccups because it reminds them that all is well with their newborn baby.

Some baby's will hiccup more than others. Whereas one mom might only notice her baby hiccup on occasion, another might notice their baby hiccup more than 5 times a day.

http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.c...ncy_week_21.htm

In addition to kicks, turns and other body movements, your baby will likely have a few cases of the hiccups while still in utero. Hiccups will feel like little spasms in your belly, and are distinct from other movements. Some babies may get the hiccups several times a day everyday.

Hiccups in your baby are just a fetal reflex that is remarkably similar to our own. Only the more mature fetuses will hiccup, as hiccups rely on the development of the central nervous system. Some experts think that hiccups in utero is a response to fetal drinking or fetal breathing, which causes the flow of amniotic fluid in and out of the lungs, stimulating the diaphragm to contract.

Hiccups in babies in utero do not seem to cause the same discomfort as it does in adults.


http://www.amazingpregnancy.com/pre...ticles/358.html

[MidwesternGal]

Pamela--Great belly shot!

Maplekitty--I don't smell blood or anything, but I definitely feel like I smell "differently" and more strongly than before--if that helps at all.

Hiccups vs. Kicks--For me, my kid's kicks move around. . . hiccups stay in the same place, and aren't as hard.
_________________________
So I'm kind of upset right now--well, more than kind of--I just finished crying. I had DH take a picture of me from knees on up, because a couple of out-of-town friends want to see me pregnant. I emailed it to 4 of my friends. Well, one emailed back and this is all she wrote: "UR FAT". Now, what am I supposed to make of THAT? Is is a joke, meaning I'm getting bigger and just a poor word choice? Or what? I mean, gee, I sent her a picture in order to share in the pregnancy since she isn't around, not hear how fat I am!! (As if I don't know that all ready!!!!) I've had a few issues with her all ready this pregnancy, so I'm tempted just to basically cut her out of the loop as of now. What would you all do?? Thanks!

I hope everyone has a good weekend!!

[Ericka_Jarett]

midwestern - sorry to hear that comment. Is she someone that wanted to see your pic of you pregnant? I would probably wrote back and say "I'm such and such weeks pregnant. I feel good and that's what matters to me." If they didn't request the pic just wouldn't send another, if they asked for it I would be like, well your not getting another pic of me than.

Can't believe how rude some people are.

[MichelleRenee]

marathongirl, it was scary! (I hope I didn't make it sound like I was driving when it happened.. I was parked when I turned around like that:o ) But it was scary having such a sharp pain like that. It almost felt like I tore my uterus or a ligament.

Pamela, I get a ton more kicks when I am laying down and they are a lot stronger then too.

Rippy1010, I kind of assume every pain is round ligament pain because I've heard it described in so many ways. It kinda sucks because while you expect the dull pain and the achiness those sharp ones can be so scary!

PinkMartini, it is hard to tell, but hiccups have a rhythm to them that makes them stand out from just moving/kicking.

MidwesternGal, people are such asses. Today we saw Mike's best friend for the first time in about 4 months and his first omment was "wow, you are fat!" I think it is just a poor choice of words. Of course in writing you have a bit more time to re-think the words you want to use. I can't believe your friend wrote that. So insensitive.

[dzmattie]

Midwestern - Very rude and uncaring in my opinion. Sounds like she probably was trying to be funny but that is giving her the benefit of the doubt. I have lost touch with a few friends over my last few years while I was pregnant and during DS's last few years because people who don't have kids are rude and don't seem to have a clue about pregnancy or babies. If you feel that this person does have little "mean or jealous" streak in her - you might want to distance yourself for awhile. (I am assuming she doesn't have kids - if she does then that was especially uncalled for) You might find that she will realize on her own that she lost a friend over being rude....especially if she does get pregnant some day....

[marathongirl]

OK - here's my most recent belly shot from this morning at 28w 1d.
http://images1.snapfish.com/347568%3A94%7Ffp345%3Enu%3D3239%3E645%3E638%3EWSNR CG%3D32338%3B%3C9528%3A3nu0mrj

I still think it's a boy, but we'll find out in about 12 weeks.

midwestern - sorry about your 'friend'. That was rude and uncalled for - even if she was trying to be funny. I'd be inclined to put a little distance bewteen her and you.

I think we've finally selected names. If it's a boy, he will be James David. If it's a girl, she will be Hannah Kathryn.

Hope everyone is enjoying their weekend!

[SlvSpring]

quick question for you ladies- ro's might know?

when you buy a coming home outfit, what size do you buy it? I found something that I think is so cute! but it is 0-3 mos. (Old navy)I checked the sizing chart and it says that is 19-23 in and 7-12lbs. That seems within normal ranges for a newborn, but what is your guys experience? Are they swimming in it?

Thanks for any help you guys have!

[jbemommy]

midwesterngal That is an awful comment for her to make! I'm afraid I'd have to come up with some sort of rude remark back to her.
maplekitty I agree that there is a different smell when I'm pregnant, much stronger than usual.
Slvspring which size to buy for coming home outfits is tough. The 0-3 are often too big, but if you are planning on having them wear it other than just that one occaision, that's probably what I'd go for. DD was pretty little (6#9 oz), but all her first clothes were 0-3 and they worked--big at first, but she grew into them quickly (and was out of them by 3 months). Her outfit had a cute matching hat that was way too big, though.

We had a scare this morning with DD. I went to take a shower, she was playing in our room. She came to the door crying and holding her arm, saying it hurt. She said the bed hurt it, so I thought she must have fallen off the bed, although I didn't hear anything. She didn't calm down like usual, and kept holding her arm against her, so I took her in for x-rays. While we were waiting, she suddenly started moving it again and said her arm was all better. The x-rays were normal. She must have gotten a nursemaid's elbow somehow (when one of the elbow bones slips out of place) that went back in on its own. What a relief. I felt so awful knowing she was in pain (and guilty for not watching her).

[Tika]

Hello ladies!

Hope you are doing well! I have been flying under the radar lately. I got busy at work before leaving for vacation and got sick when I got back. I am still battling a bad cold and hope to get back on track soon.
I browsed through the past post and see that things are progressing well for most.

Jbemommy--- Sorry about the 1-hr GTT.

Ericka--- Thanks for the info on hiccups. I didn’t know how to differentiate from one to the other! Maybe now, I will!

Midwesterngal--- Sorry you had to be subjected to such comment! Not knowing the source it is hard to know what she meant by that. As for as how to handle it, I agree with Ericka.

Marathongirl---- Lovely names!

Slvspring---- I’m a first time mom, but I was told not to buy any newborn outfits as they are a waste. Your child will outgrow it within a couple weeks.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As for me, not much going on here! We finally ordered our furniture. Good thing we went last week since the Pali crib we wanted had just gotten discontinued. Thankfully, the store contacted the manufacturer and they had 2 left in the color that we wanted.

My appt from last week went well; pretty uneventful! It does not appear that my fibroids are growing too fast, so they are not affecting the baby. I will continue to have regular u/s to monitor them though. Now my appts will be every 2 weeks with the next appt on July 19th. I will also have my 1-hr GTT then. I can’t believe that I am starting my 3rd trimester!!!

Now, back to the World Cup Final!:D

[dzmattie]

Coming home outfit - I had a GAP sleeper type outfit for DS and it was for "under 7lbs" - I think that is the size they have that is not the preemie and not the 0-3month - and after he was born at 7lb 15oz I thought he would never fit in it - and it was still too big when we put it on him!! It was the only outfit that fit him "right" for the first two weeks home but that is as long as it lasted. It was nice to have something he wasn't swimming in though - and our experience was that the only people who saw him "going home" were me, DH, and my parents. So it really wasn't that much of a big deal to me to have a special outfit - plus it was January and he had a snowsuit on anyway....

I bought this in the NB size for Baby Girl - might be what we bring her home in...I got it at the Carter's outlet for $7!!
http://slimages.macys.com/is/image/MCY/products/5/optimized/221405_fpx.tif?bgc=255,255,255&wid=273&qlt=90,0&layer=comp&op_sharpen=0&resMode=bicub&op_usm=0.7,1.0,0.5,0&fmt=jpeg

[Nigellas]

Erica – My peri said that he typically doesn’t like to give medication unless really needed. Since the bedrest/cerclage combo seem to be working for me we are going to hold off on steroids unless something changes.

Stress – This dude was conceived via IUI and considering I was chock full of Gonal-F hormones and had 4 mature follicles that could have fertilized, yeah – I was definitely stressed. ;)

Maple – Is it like an iron smell? I get that too - I figured it was from my cerclage...

Midwest – In my overly hormonal state I’d have a hard time writing a civil response. My reply would likely include the phrase “up yours, ho bag” ;)

[Pamela]

Kicks vs. hiccups, etc., she's kicking me up under my ribcage these days (I swear sometime it feels like she's trying to do some really fantastic crazy dance sometimes), but I get smaller thumps down low that must be punches, they're not as hard as the kicks. Sometimes her head rolls over my bladder too. When she has hiccups I feel them down low and it feels like a tapping almost and is very rhythmic. She's been getting them a lot lately.

Midwesterngal, OMG I can't believe your 'friend' was that rude to you!!! That is such an awful thing to say to anyone, especially a pregnant lady!! If it were me I would definately fire back a response including 'UR A B!TCH,' and I like Nigellas' idea too. Ugh, what a horrible thing to say!

Marathongirl, you look great, and I love the names you've chosen!

SlvSpring, I'm a first time mommy, but I've had my little girl's coming home outfit picked out since I was a little girl! My Gramma makes the most gorgeous baby dresses, and I'll be bringing a few different ones to the hospital with us to choose from --I have a couple dozen of the ones that I wore as a baby, plus about 40 new ones in all different sizes :eek: Her closet is well stocked with dresses! :D

jbemommy, glad to hear your dd's arm is feeling better and the x-rays were fine!

[bunnybeth]

Ok, quick update. I went in to see the OB on Thursday afternoon. Everything looked great, so she wasn't concerned about the spotting at this point. Another vaginal swab and those results will be back on Monday. If nothing else changes, I'm just on pelvic rest until 7 days of no spotting. I had an even smaller amount of spotting on Friday night, but I think it was because of the exam and the nurse agreed with me when I called, again. I guess this kid just doesn't want me to take it easy!

7/10 appointment is cancelled (due to my going in last week)
Next appointment is 7/18 (1 hour GTT)

childbirth classes DH doesn't mind going to the Prepared Childbirth class. Our hospital offers it as 1 day, 3 weeks or 6 weeks. I let DH pick and he choose the 1 day marathon class, which we will be taking on July 29. A bit on the early side, but our Aug/Sept schedule is pretty hectic.

And now it's dinner time. :)

[MichelleRenee]

Here is my 24w2d belly shot:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v498/AngelyWangely/Belly%20Shots/DSC00418.jpg

ETA: I did notice something funny today. I haven't actually seen or felt anything leaking out of my nipples, but the shirts I wear to bed all have little spots of dried fluid right over the nipples. Very attractive!

[MidwesternGal]

Thanks for the advice ladies! While I'm tempted to do what Pamela and Nigellas recommend. . . I think I'll ignore her message and not call or email her for a while. I think there are some jealousy issues there--but still!

MichelleRenee--Great pic!! You look wonderful!

Bunnybeth--Glad to hear that things came out all right at the doc's office!

As for a going home outfit. . .. My mom bought me a nursing nightgown, and it came with one of those sleeper "bags" (I don't know the actual term, but it's like a gown w/drawstring bottom) that matches. I think that's what Jake and I will wear the main visiting day in the hospital (or is that too "girly" for a boy? It's mint green/neutral). . . . and as for going home, I have no idea. Probably just a sleeper. I figure most pics will be taken at the hospital, not as we're going home. Just a thought!

[Ericka_Jarett]

Midwestern - gowns are popular for both sexes. They make diaper changes easy. I know our little guy is going to be wearing them at home the first few weeks.

[She-Ra]

Midwestern:We used those gowns exclusively at night for a few months. As Erickasaid, they are way easy for diaper changes & pretty cute. However, they are not good for the car b/c they become scrunched up when you secure the harness, and exposes their little legs.

Coming home outfit: I'm not going to worry about this as much as last time. It ended up being only me, DH, and DS coming home at 8 pm. I am just going to shoot for something comfy, easy, and cute (1 piece) in a 0-3.

Speaking of easy, this time I'm going to buy all zip-up sleepers. The snaps are a total pain. Target, Carters, & Children's place have cute cotton ones.

[Mommy2ml]

maplekitty - I had a smell that is now going away, it ended up being the start of a YI. The cream is getting rid of some irritation I had started to feel and the smell seems to be going with it... so I would ask about it just in case.

comning home outfit - Mackie wore Newborn clothes the first 3 months. She was a week late and 6lbs10oz at birth. The newborn stuff was really big on her! LOL I would advise ringing more than one outfit with you, one newborn and one 0-3 at least, depending on the size of your baby. I would also recommend going with soemthing you can just lay the baby in and do up either snaps or a zipper (buttons can bea chocking hazzard and I avoided them for a few months+ before using anything with them iirc) I remember being so scared/nervous handling her as a tiny new baby, I did not want anything to do with stuff that I woul have to put over her head or fasten in the back. I would also look for something that covers at least the feet, if not the hands and feet, even if it feels warm to us, they say to always add a layer of clothing to a newborn beyond what you would feel comfy wearing since they cannot regulate their temp at all so young.

kicks/punches/hiccups - the movements feel much different this time around - last time the placenta was up in front, so the movements were less palpable in some cases, this time it's in the back so I feel every little move, so I am still trying to discern :)

jbemommy I would not feel bad, it probably would have happened either way and we can't always be right therer in the same room as the kids looking right at them every moment. Could have just as easily happened at night with a roll out of bed or while you were cooking dinner, or while you went potty. It happens. My mom still tells me the story of when I dislocated my elbow when I was little. It popped right back into place a while later and I was none the worse for wear - peds said it happens all the time and is usually totally fine soon after.
--------------

Rob was gone most of the weekend, painting a friend's new master BR. I brought Mackie to the Long IslandChildren's Museum - one of her faves:) I decided to get a 2 person membership as it is pretty inexpensive and pays of itself in 3 visits! So we spent Sat there and then Sunday we went to the Queens zoo with my parents and brother. She wanted to go back to the miseum, but I thought she'd enjoy the zoo too and my parents offered :) She LOVED it LOL She was so scared to go and fromt he second she got there she had a blast. Next week we plan to go to the much mich bigger Bronx zoo. She's looking forward to it too! LOL Plus, on the maps to the Queens zoo they had coupons with $4 off POP admission at the Bronx zoo, so even though my parents are paying, it still saves them some $$ in the long run! They love treating us and MAckie to things like that thouhg. I figure next week is good since that is right befor ethey go away on vacation a few weeks and Rob will be able to come with us and help with MAckie some as well.

I have to say doing the zoo while pg took a bit out of me... the Bronx zoo promises to do even more :P but I am still looking forward to it! LOL Have not been there in years and years!

Sorry this is so long, there is so much going on lately! LOL

I am sure to have more later, but I nee to get some work done here too :P LOL

[marathongirl]

midwestern - I was not a fan of the gowns. They tended to get all bunched up on DD.

jbemommy - I wish we could wrap these kids in cotton! Like mommy2ml said, it could have happened during the night. My DD rolled off our bed while I was watching - I just couldn't cover the distance fast enough to grab her.

bunnybeth - glad things are looking OK!

michellerenee - you look GREAT!!!

I had my 28-week appt this morning with the 1-hr GTT. Everything looks good. They only call if you fail the GTT so if I don't hear from the office by the end of the week, I can assume I passed.

Threadmistress - my next appt is 8/7. Thanks! I still have monthly appts, but this coming one will be my last. Then I go to every 2 weeks.

[Jenzen01]

Morning, mommies.

Not much to add this morning ... just wanted to check in to say hello.

We had a pretty relaxing weekend. We took Gabe out out his first boat ride yesterday, and he got to go swimming in the lake, which seemed to be the highlight of his weekend. He had a blast throwing rocks in the water.

I picked out paint colors for Gabe's new bedroom, which means I'm finally getting this project started. Seriously, I've got a nesting thing going on here ... I will feel much better when everything is organized and ready for baby.

Also, I realized I have a little problem. I'm supposed to take pictures at my DH's cousin's wedding in Sept. Problem is that I will be full term on Sept. 24 and the wedding is Sept. 23. I had Gabe when I was 37 weeks. Also, the wedding is two hours from home, and I distinctly remember how uncomfortable I was sitting for longer than 30 minutes at that point last time ... not to mention all of the running around I'll have to do to get shots. So, my dad doesn't think I'll be able to do it, and he's worried about me. I feel bad because I promised to shoot this wedding before I even knew I was pregnant. Thoughts, anyone?

Jen

[Mommy2ml]

Jenzen I would maybe discuss it with his cousin at some point soon. Let her know what you said here - it'll be close, you're worried you won't make it, worried you could wind up leaving her without pics or not be up to snuff to do your best. There's still a few motnhs for her to find someone else to do it if she wants to, or at least arrange a back-up plan just in case. She probably will not be terribly happy about it as the wedding is gettig close, but I am sure she'd be more upset if on that day or that week you had to cancel due to an early arrival or really not feeling well kwim? At least give her the option to look now and be aware of the possibility ahead of time. however if she is a "bridezilla" of sorts, perhaps having DH or someone else break it to her with you might help too :)

[Ericka_Jarett]

Jenzen - as hard as it is, I would tell the cousin you can't do the pics after all. You could go early but even so, be pretty uncomfortable and being on your feet all day at 30 something weeks.

It's killing me with this bedrest just because I am the VBS Director at my church and can't do anything to help with it.

[Bubeleh]

Just a quick post to catch up and say Hi!

Due Date Buddy Erika - they have wireless access in the hospital so I or DH will just make a quick post with the birth details.

Had a busy weekend, but productive. I found a dress for my Brothers wedding. It ended up not being a maternity dress, just a stretchy knit dress. Luckily their weddign isn't very formal and I can get away with that. But since its 2 weeks away it was a relief to finally find something. My mom also found a dress, which is calming her nerves a bit.

The biggest news is we finished the registry. I still need to check a few things to make sure they are good items, but we walked through BRU and added all the gear we think we'll need. Its still a small list, but I didn't want to put clothing or toys on the list.

Have to get back to work, we are leaving early for a rock concert tonight!

[Rippy1010]

Threadmistress ~ For the Due Date Buddy ... I am going to have a CC Journal Buddy come on to post while I'm in the hospital. THANKS!

Bubelah ~ I'm glad you posted that you were going to a concert tonight!!! We are scheduled to go to a concert on 8/4 and I was feeling guilty wondering if I should expose li'l man to the noise, since he can hear things on the outside very well now. You made me feel better about going. :D

[Bubeleh]

Rippy: DH was very concerned about the noise, but My Dr. said it was perfectly fine, just to not stand the whole show. The band only tours every few years and I didn't want to miss it ;)

If he starts going crazy with the noise I'll just step outside for a bit.

[PinkMartini]

Threadmistress: Just coming to post that I finally made my 3D/4D ultrasound appt today. It's July 25th :)

[bunnybeth]

Forgot to post this earlier:
http://bunnybeth.net/images/pregnancy/belly_5w24w_short.jpg

Due date buddy: I'm going to ask a friend to post in here as well, so you can leave me off the list for now

[maplekitty]

Hi ladies, thanks for all the responses regarding the "smell". I have an appnt next week so I'll ask doc then. I could be overnanalysing everything, but might as well ask!

This weekend was good, I got some maternity shopping done and bought my shower dress! Also sent off my guest list to my friend so that's all coming together.
We were away from friday to saturday for a band competetion for DH, and then at a 2 yr old B-day party yesterday - needless to say I was so tired this morning I didnt even hear DH leave for work and only just woke up at noon! ACK! I feel like my first trimester fatigue is coming back! :(

I've been slacking with belly shots, but I left my charger at a friends house, and she's neglected to send it to me in the past 2 weeks. I had a little blow up at her DH about it, we're not talking a 20 dollar cord, this is a 100 dollar charger! He made all these excuses about how she's so busy lately - seriously how much time and effort does it take to pack up my chrager and send it in the mail? I can't even turn my camera on when the battery is dead! So annoyed at this friend. But DH went and ordered another one off EBAY for 15 bucks (thank god, totally can't afford the 100 brand new one!).

Hopefully I can take a belly shot again before my pregnancy is over! :p

[Mommy2ml]

nearing the 28wk mark! :)

Anyone with insurance issues? I don't have them now, but it will be an issue once the baby is born getting everything together and maintaining constant coverage. If baby is born before 10/2 then there will be a period of time at the end of Oct when he's not covered at all. Our DD is on Child Health Plus and Logan will be going on it too. Since it is a state program, we of course will have to just through hoops to get things done at the right times... I will need my discharge papers, utility bill, proof of income (from me and DH) and a filled out application all to be in/received by the 20th of the month to have coverge begin by the first of the following month. The first 30 days of life here are covered automatically by my insurance at no extra charge. So if he is born more than 30 days before the 1st of Nov. then there will be days with no coverage for him.

My mom tells me not to worry about it, since it's nothing I can control... I know that up in my head, but I still worry KWIM?

Part of me was also hoping they would induce me the last week of Sept... but now I will have to ask to go another week, risk going into labor spontaneously and get whatever doc is on call even if I don't like them (which I would have happily done if things were different, but I am happier with how my own doc is handling these potential complications and do not look forward to being in Labor and having to explain all that's gone on since 20 weeks to a doc I barely ever see, kwim? She knows me and knows the goings ons and I would simply be able to realx and trust her to do the right thing for the most part.

My docs also share coverage with another practice for weekends - they alternate, so there is potential for a dic whom I have never met or spoken with o be there delivering me. The potental of something going wrong or there being affects due to the echogenic bowel are low, but still present and I really want someone versed in all going on to be there overseeing things, kwim?

think I should go ahead with the recommended by my doc date of sometimes in the last week of Sept even though it could mean a week of no health coverage at the end of Oct for Logan?

I think I will discuss it with the docs a bit before then anyway, but I just do not know what to do.

[Ericka_Jarett]

insurance - there is a chance that we may not have coverage for little man for a few days, I'm not worrying about it though. He will be covered ASAP if that happens. Dh's health insurance is usually only open at certain tmes, but in the case of a birth, you can usually add to it at anytime. Have to read more about it and have hubby get paperwork if we need to do another application to add our son.

In the OB practice I go to there are 5 doctors, I have met them all since last year, but have only been seeing 4 of them, since I didn't care for the one doctor. When I delivered my daughter it was the on-call doctor at the hospital and the last OB I saw at th office came to deliver the placenta. It was the first time I saw that OB, as I had only been to 3 dr appt with my daughter's pregnancy. With 3 of the 5 OB's from the practice.

[Bubeleh]

Insurance I feel for you on the timing thing. We don't have any issues as long as I fill out the paperwork in time. Since I handle the Medical plan for the co, I am going to pre-fill out the paperwork, then email our agent with the name and birthdate. He is automatically covered for 30 days I just need to get the paperwork faxed by the end of that period.

Dr My Ob is a one woman show. Unless I go into labor on my actual due date (10/2) which is a major Jewish Holiday she will be the one delivering. She has a backup whom I have never met, but I figure on the day of its not going to matter, I trust her to pick a suitable backup. Her practice is really popular, so if she didn't she would probably loose a lot of business.

Rippy Words of advice for the concert. Do not stand for the hour before! That was my one mistake. I timed the bathroom trips appropiately, but I stood way too much before the show even started.

[Mommy2ml]

bubelah that was my original EDD :) All 3 of my OBs are jewish, the other practice they share coverage with don't sound like they are (I think they sound more Italian, but I could be wrong) so that does add to my nerves about being delivered by my OB, since around when Logan's set to come there are the holidays that will have the regular docs taking quite a few days off.

The 30 days is automatic too, but since I am not adding him to my plan and instead adding him to a state plan (a difference of of a few hundred dollars per month) I worry about there being a gap of non-coverage in case he does wind up having a pre-existing condition. The echogenic bowel could turn out to be a blockage - though it is looking more and more like it will be nothing. If it's a blockage, then he needs surgery almost immediately and the foollow-up care or any further surgeries may or may not be covered if there is even a sligt lapse in coverage for him... but again, I do not know for sure.

It's driving me nuts :P

[Rippy1010]

Thanks, Bubelah! :D Unfortunately, the concert is at a festival so we will be doing a lot of walking more than likely. We will have to schedule to have dinner just before the concert. :) Did you swell, or were you just sore and uncomfortable?

[maplekitty]

Just bought a "Jolly Jumper" wedge pillow to sleep with at night (not finding the snoogle all that great...).

This thing is awesome! It's small enough that when I roll over, I just grab it and shove it under me again on the other side! It really helps take pressure off my back!

http://www.babyproofingplus.com/usrimage/cat1228242.jpg

[Bubeleh]

Mommy2ml You could always purchase one of those short term policies for emergencies only just to make sure there is no lapse in coverage. They are pretty cheap, and all paperwork is done on the web. I did one for 30 days once in between jobs. Cheaper than COBRA.

Rippy I didn't swell, but I haven't yet, so maybe that's why. It was just my feet that were very sore, and I was a little stiff walking to the car. We had center stage 8th row at a super loud rock concert, but if I held the bottom of my belly it dramatically lessened the vibrations which made the whole experience more enjoyable. He even kicked along to a couple songs. Also I had a bottle of water and made sure to keep hydrated. The show was about 2 1/2 hours and another 3-4 hours before and after, i.e. getting to the car, arriving to pick up tickets etc. The dinner right before is a good idea.

[Mommy2ml]

another insurance issue....

My insurance will "cover " Logan the first 30 days, but if I don't start payig to add him in they will kick vback all the claims that they hold from the first 30 days and no one will pay them... isn't that lovely? So now we're likely to have to shell out over $300 to add him to my policy and get those clains paid, then switch him over. A ton and a half of paperwork and added expense, but we cannot affrod to pay thousands of hospital and doc bills from when he is first born and has a couple of visits his first months because of how my coverage policy is worded :P

We are soooooooo screwed!

[Jenzen01]

insurance - We got lucky this year. My company just switched carriers, and they will cover 100% with no deductible. I think I just have a $10 copay on some occasions. I haven't sorted it all out yet. We have a family coverage, so I think I just need to add the baby within a certain time period after birth. Shouldn't be too much trouble.

With Gabe, insurance was a pain in the you-know-what because he was born at the end of the year so my out-of-pocket max was immediately met but then I had to start over within a few days. And, because of his heart murmer, we had lots of expenses in the first few months, so we got hit hard. Also, because I dropped my insurance and added myself and Gabe onto my husband's, we had a lot of problems with things filed incorrectly. It was sort of a mess.

slings - I think I'm going to get a hotsling. I just found a bunch on ebay, but the savings isn't that much, so I wonder if I should just buy it off hotslings.com.

BH contractions - I just started getting these a little more regularly. Not too bad, but I'm definitely noticing them.

[Mommy2ml]

slings I have the maya wrap sling from my DD and will use that for now :) I could go nuts with all the slings out there though, I love most of them LOL

Thanks for putting up with my venting re: insurance... I just am so tatally stressed about it, really. I am not sure quite what to do and I still am waiting for DH to get info about possibly adding me to hisinsurance wbefore mine may possibly run out during my leave :P It just sucks to work for a small company... really sucks :(

[maplekitty]

I think I'm going to get the Infantino SlingRider
http://www.infantino.com/Images/Carriers/151-528Wired.jpg

I like that it has an adjustable strap (good because DH and I are not the same size)

[Ericka_Jarett]

maplekitty - I have that same sling. Mine is a bit of a different design, but it's super comfy. Will work for me or hubby. It's well padded and looks comfy for the baby, especially since our babies will be late Fall, early winter babies.

[maplekitty]

maplekitty - I have that same sling. Mine is a bit of a different design, but it's super comfy. Will work for me or hubby. It's well padded and looks comfy for the baby, especially since our babies will be late Fall, early winter babies.


yah now i just need to find it! :p

I know they sell them at Wal-Mart, but havnt seen it at the Walm-mart near here - will have to go to another bigger one in a neighbouring town!

[Ericka_Jarett]

Maple - I got mine at Burlington Coat Factory in a different print also on sale since a few are going out of business.

I haven't seen them at Walmart at all, but know that BRU has them. I know Target has them as well, not sure if you can order it and have them ship to Canada though. There are also many on e-bay, some are brand new others slightly used. This particular one is the exact pattern I have Sling (http://cgi.ebay.com/Sling-Rider-Baby-Carrier-Infantino-BRAND-NEW-in-box_W0QQitemZ250006414258QQihZ015QQcategoryZ117031 QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)

[maplekitty]

Maple - I got mine at Burlington Coat Factory in a different print also on sale since a few are going out of business.

I haven't seen them at Walmart at all, but know that BRU has them. I know Target has them as well, not sure if you can order it and have them ship to Canada though. There are also many on e-bay, some are brand new others slightly used. This particular one is the exact pattern I have Sling (http://cgi.ebay.com/Sling-Rider-Baby-Carrier-Infantino-BRAND-NEW-in-box_W0QQitemZ250006414258QQihZ015QQcategoryZ117031 QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)


yah I saw those ones on Ebay, that's a possibility - I want to try and find the black and toile one.
I'll keep looking around, because there are a few Wal-Mart around here. Unfortunately the Babies R Us here doesn't carry it...I suppose I could order it, I'd have to look in the Canadian catalogue to see if they carry it...or....a trip back to Seattle ;)

[Michelle]

I'd have to look in the Canadian catalogue to see if they carry it...or....a trip back to Seattle ;)

Maplekitty - You know, if you want I can look at the BRU here for the exact pattern that you are looking for. The one I shop at is probably the closest one to the Canadian border (the store north of Seattle in Lynnwood). I've been there so much lately that I would not be going out of my way because I've become a BRU regular! :) Just let me know!

[Bubeleh]

Quick poll of a couple names we are thinking of:

Ethan Michael
Ethan Alexander
Ethan Asher

Any thoughts, DH doesn't care about the middle name and I can't decide. Out last name starts with a S and is 2 syl.

[SlvSpring]

Thanks for all the advice on coming home outfits, ladies! I wasn't planning on buying anything fancy. Just this cute little gift set they have on oldnavy.com that has a onsie that says born in 2006 with a really cute striped hat. I figured I would buy pants and socks to go with it. I am lucky that I won't have to worry about weather too much in October because the weather is so mild here in So Cal.

insurance- My insurance will cover the baby for the first 30 days and within that time we will have to get him enrolled with his own plan. We are VERY lucky with our insurance in that my DH's work pays completely for all of us. It is great insurance too as owe nothing for the whole labor and delivery except the private room extra to pay to the hospital. My whole maternity visits with my OB are covered with 2 $10 co-pays. His company is thinking of changing their policy come April (fiscal year) and making the employees pay for some of it. I hope not- we are so spoiled.
mommy2ml-Are you sure that Logan will not be covered even if you don't choose to cover him under that plan? I thought it was included in maternity coverage no matter what.

I think I am going to get my glucose test done tomorrow afternoon. I purposely bought a frozen South Beach diet dinner to have for lunch because it only has 12g of carbs and broccolli w/ ranch dip as a snack rather than my usual fruit and yogurt. Does anyone have any suggestions for breakfast? I usual have a very fast cereal with low fat milk as I don't have a lot of time in the morning. I'm looking for something fast that I don't have to cook but I want to stay away from sugar substitutes. Well, I hope I can get it over with-- I am having car troubles and wound up in tears because I thought I wouldn't be able to leave work today, so hopefully my car won't be acting up tomorrow.

Have a good night ladies!

[SlvSpring]

bubeleh-

out of those three I like Ethan Michael because it seems to flow best. :)

[Ericka_Jarett]

Bubeleh - I like Ethan Michael the best

maplekitty - they had the toile pattern on ebay as well, lots of new in box I saw as well. Our Walmart is not carrying the slings at all, so not sure what design they would have. I know the BCF had the denim with green blue stripe inside. I know BRU has the black toile. Hope you can find it pretty easy.

[MichelleRenee]

Bubeleh, Ethan Michael was actually my first choice for a name, but DH didn't like Ethan. I think it is a very cute name for a little boy that will "grow" well with him.

I haven't got a call on ym GTT results yet, so I am still assuming I passed.

I've been feeling pretty much the same. I haven't been quite as hungry lately and I've still had heartburn in the morning and at night. Sometimes Pepcid AC helps and sometimes it doesn't.

I have slept a little better, but I think its because I've been so tired.

I am very anxious to get through the next couple weeks and to officially be in the third trimester.

[Mrs-Mac]

I've been MIA lately. Work has been crazy. I'm feeling okay, although I'm having a little trouble sleeping lately. Its just hard to find a comfy way to sleep. I've been peeking at my registry and stuff is being bought off it, which is exciting. I only wish I could start working on the nursery. The house is coming along nicely, but still no word on when we will close. I just really hope its before the baby is here. :eek:

QOTD - insurance - I think as long as I call within 30 days of the birth, the baby can be added and its effective from the date of birth. My insurance is pretty good, so I'm lucky that its one less thing I have to think about.

Maplekitty - I registered for that sling!! If we don't get it as a gift, I'll end up buying it myself, because I really like it too!!

Bunnybeth - Great belly pics!!

Hope everyone else is doing well!!

[Rippy1010]

Bubelah ~ Actually, I was going to say that I liked Ethan Asher the most, because the middle name is so unique.



Yesterday, was a regular doc appointment. I think I gained a lot of weight this time around. :( When she was measuring me (I think she was actually measuring the baby, possibly??), she squeezed me so hard I seriously thought she was going to squeeze him right out of me! :eek: LOL! My stomach was sore for about an hour afterwards. Let's see ... Next appointment you already know about ... 7/31. Then, my next appointment after that (u/s) you already know about ... 8/7. Then my next appointment after that is 8/17 ... that is newly scheduled. THANKS!

[Mommy2ml]

quick update - exhausted and tired and really sleepy :p been more hungry lately and even more tired that I had been getting. Tomorrow marks the start of my 3rd trimester.

As far as insurance goes... I am currently wauting to hear back from the HR personwith some answers to questions I asked her yesterday... with her track record, I might hear back by Sept :( Rob just keeps telling me things will work out, they always do, etc... but I am really having a hard time looking on the bright side when it looks like we're gonna go broke from all this stuff.

In addition, we're both having some more dental work done over the next few months. I have dental coverage through COBRA, but the copays on root canals, posts and crowns have us with a Care Credit line going. We just had to increase the credit line on it for the upcoming work :( I should not complain... with no insurance it's cost thousands more than it does, but still I am so tired of watching the $$ go out the window.

So I guess I have been feeling a bit down lately. The extra tiredness and exhaustion and bills and such are just crushing me right now.

On the bright side, 2.5-under 3mo left befre we meet Logan! :)

[Rippy1010]

Mommy2ml ~ I hear you on the money issues being tiring, frustrating, and a real downer. Ours aren't insurance issues, but just lots of money going out the window in general. My DH also will need some major dental work here VERY soon ... this will be his second go-round, so I already know approx how much it's going to cost. :( With the hormones raging, the money issues just seem that much worse, kwim? It's had me in tears a few times ... stinkin' hormones. :rolleyes: DH just doesn't even KNOW what to do when I get like that. :o

[jbemommy]

Oh, man, speaking of hormones, do I have them!! Yesterday evening our nanny called to say she had made an appt for her DD today and couldn't watch Juliana. We have no family here, but we do have 2 back-up people to watch DD just in case. Both of them already had plans. Finally at 10 pm, I got a call from another friend who said she could watch her. I had been so stressed all night I just started crying. It doesn't help that DH is in our community theater production of Beauty and the Beast which starts tonight, so he has had rehearsal every night for the past 2 weeks and 4 nights a week for 6 weeks before that. And I'm on call this weekend which always stresses me out anyway. So, I am counting the days until Monday! And a glass of wine would be really nice about now.

[Rippy1010]

And a glass of wine would be really nice about now

TEEEELL ME ABOUT IT!!!

[Ericka_Jarett]

Caution Vent - I've been emotional as well this last week. Monday was my worst day.

I'm now on like my 5th week of bedrest and I am the Vacation Bible School Director for my church. I attended our last meeting on Sunday and helped to sort a bit of the stuff, but hubby has been going every night to help with decorating week. I have no say in where anything goes and can't help decorate at all. One of the ladies in church did a fantastic job of painting the animals that another person cut from cardboard. I probably won't be allowed to go to the church to see any of it until Sunday. Than next week is VBS week and I was going to help, found a replacement for my role though. I have about 3 people that can't help out now, others that will be missing for a day or more. I am frustrated about those backing out, when I need the most help now. I just sat and cried Monday after my husband left. I wanted more than anything to be pregnant and I am so happy that I am and the baby is growing. Just wish I didn't have this cervix issue happen. I am dealing though.

People think it's great that I get to lay around all day long and not do anything. They don't understand that it's boring and that your body gets stiff. My back hurts from laying on it all day, during the night I try to stay on either side. I make noises when I move and hubby said he gets discouraged thinking that I'm not happy being pregnant. I can't seem to make him understand that I love being pregnant, that it's just my body is stiff and hard to find the most comfortable spot. I have to use my body pillow as soon as I go to the side, cause my belly shifts from the weight of the baby. I throw some clothes in the washer and fold some clothes. Sometimes if I am up to cook I will load the dishwasher if the sink needs to be emptied, might as well do something productive since I am going to be in the kitchen for 15 mins or so.

I go 2 weeks from yesterday for another u/s to check my cervix, hope it hasn't opened anymore and actually that it's closed up. We are hoping for 9 more weeks at the least, since I will be full term than. One nice thing is window shopping on the net. Just got the 5 pieces I bought the other day from Children's Place. http://www.childrensplace.com/www/b/TCP/images/styles/450247_m.jpghttp://www.childrensplace.com/www/b/TCP/images/styles/448101_m.jpghttp://www.childrensplace.com/www/b/TCP/images/styles/501173_m.jpg
http://www.childrensplace.com/www/b/TCP/images/styles/530312_m.jpghttp://www.childrensplace.com/www/b/TCP/images/styles/450221_m.jpg

[Rippy1010]

Ericka ~ So sorry about the bedrest situation. I can just imagine how sore you must get. Afterall, I get sore just from sleeping a few hours at night, and I'm all stiff when I have to switch positions. I know it must be NO FUN! I'm hoping good things for your next dr appt!

[Jenzen01]

Oh, wow. I think we all need a group (((((((((((((((hug)))))))))))))!

So sorry to hear everyone is down ... but ... while we're complaining, I might as well join in. :)

Work is terrible. Our dept. doesn't have a direct supervisor because everone has quit and the higher-ups either aren't hiring or can't find anyone to work under the current managament. So, we are all having to take charge as best as we can in the chaos. The political garbage that has been going on around here is ridiculous. In fact, I'm not even sure that my dept. is going to be around after we get through this reorg mess.

And, I hurt. By the end of the day, my lower back/butt pain has kicked in. Last night, I had the fun combo of round ligament pain mixed with shooting butt pain. Thank goodness DH entertained Gabe, because I couldn't keep up with him.

The daycare called to tell me Gabe is running a fever. I swear, they like taking his temp to irritate me. He was fine this morning. Maybe he's teething ... I don't know ... could be 2-year-old molars.

So basically, work has me down. I'm probably not coming back, although I can't admit that to anyone. Yeah, money is going to be super tight but between the cost of daycare for two and the amount of stress/unhappiness I'm experiencing in my current position, it's just not worth it. At least there's an end in sight. I told DH that my goal right now is to not get fired before October. :) That ought to tell you something. :)

Jen

[bunnybeth]

Mommy2ml Oh, that stinks about your insurance. Paying $300 is better than (possible) thousands, but still, it would be better not to have to pay that at all! My insurance is pretty straight-forward coverage, but I'd hope so with the premiums I pay.

Bubeleh Since your last name is 2 syl. the Alexander seems a bit long, with Ethan also being 2. I really like Asher both because it's unusual and works well with Ethan. But, Michael also works really well.

SlvSpring I think I'm going to have cottage cheese and a veggie "sausage" patty for my GTT-day breakfast. I love carbs for breakfast and don't have a lot of time in the morning, so it's been difficult to figure something out.

Mrs-Mac I just finished up my registry, I can't wait to see things being purchased off it. :) Good luck on getting your house closed in plenty of time to set up that nursery!

slings I really like The Peanut Shell designs. I was thinking I'd wait until after the kid arrives and try my friend's sling (not same brand, but still) before buying, but my favorite is a limited-edition summer print... so maybe I should just buy it now? (Here it is: http://www.goo-ga.com/prod/171/1/0/1)

Only a tiny complaint from me for now. I just moved cubicles at work today (department remodel) and now I no longer have the key to lock my drawers. The woman who used to sit here forgot them at home today, so my purse is basically sitting around unlocked whenever I leave my desk. I'm so paranoid about that because when I was working at the mall during high school, my purse was stolen from the back room. It's driving me nuts. I hope she remembers the darn keys tomorrow.

Otherwise, I've been spotting-free for over 4 days now, and the kid has been kicking away. I'm starting to feel it a lot more this past week... growth spurt???

[Mommy2ml]

What gets me is that this $300-something is gonna be out of our pockets at a time when I am going to only be bringing in disability checks... a HUGE difference between my reg. check an dthe disability when it finally starts coming in... so I worry about having the $$ to give to begin with with all the initial costs when you first come home kwim?

As far as slings go, I remember making much use of my slings the first weeks home with Mackie. She'd fall asleep in the sling and I could sit and type at the computer or just get a little somehthing done with my hands free with no worries as to if she was too cold or something all snuggled up in it and warm. I remember starting out with a Sling-Ezee (sp?) and then getting the Maya a little later on.

I am having a diet coke with lunch today and Logan is all over the place in there! LOL

[MichelleRenee]

I am sorry everyone is having such a rough day. It's such a bummer that so many PG women have to deal with insurance and/or job issues. I really hope that everything works out for everyone.

I am actually doing OK today. I was a little nauseous this morning, but lunch seemed to help with that. Tristan is kicking me repeatedly, and has been since yesterday, in one spot and I happen to be having ligament pain there as well now... perhaps from the kicking? either way.... ouch!

I've been looking over my registry trying to decide if I've got too much on there. I don't really want to register for clothes since 1. I have a TON of hand-me-downs from my sister and 2. most people like to pick out the cute stuff on their own. However, when I started my registry I added a few sets of onesies (white ones in each size and a few of the "boy multipacks") and a couple of the gowns/sleepers I liked. I know it is such a non-issue, but I am debating whether I should take them all off. Not only for the reasons above, but also because I just think my list looks so long and I hate to look greedy.:o I certainly like to have a variety of prices on there. I don't want a registry of all $50 and up stuff.

Also, is anyone registering for lotions, baby shampoo, diapers or wipes? I've seen registries with and without that stuff.

With shower invites going out in 2 weeks (:eek: ) I really want to get my registry "settled."

A friend of mine who had a baby last year had 3 registries (3 stores) and each one had well over 100 items on it. She even registered for stuff for potty training (like Kandoo soap and stuff) and it seemed excessive to me.

[Ericka_Jarett]

Michelle - I have registered for shampoos, diapers, wipes and such. I also have onesies on my registry. This way when people go to buy for me, they know the items that I could really use or prefer. If I get it great, if not at least I will know what I still need.

[Michelle]

MichelleR- I'm putting that stuff on my registry too. I think it's a great idea. I wish BRU would let me do it online, but I have to go into the store to do. I'm all about wanting diapers! That's about the most practical baby gift that you can get! :)

[MichelleRenee]

Target won't let you add that stuff online either. But I do think it is a good idea. I mean, if people are going to buy you diapers shouldn't they know which brand you prefer?

Also, I know some consider this to be "tacky" but my sister is doing a "diaper raffle" for my shower. The invitations say that everyone who brings a pack of diapers to the shower will be entered to win a prize. This was done at the last two showers I went to and no one was offended by it and the outcome was awesome. It is a great way to stock up on diapers. I think a lot of the debate is that people shouldn't be asked to bring diapers when they are already bringing a gift, but I think most people have a set amount they want to spend on a gift and a portion of that just goes to the diapers instead of towards the actual gift.

[Mommy2ml]

michellerenee - I have been struggling with paring donw my registry as well... I am probably not getting a shower this time around... though I have hinted at want some family get togetehr before the baby comes. I am sure people will get stuff for the baby either way. We also have enough handme downs for a good 3 months or so, but I know people will give us more and dont mind one bit LOL

I am not registered for the toiletries and am doing cloth dipes, if people get stuff for Logan, fine, but if we cant't use it we'll either re-gift it or exchange it for something we need. I figure on using stuff we cna get at BJs in bulk, especially the first year as far as toiletries go :)

I have 2 registries because I was against using amazon fro BRU, now they splitaway, but I already advertised my 2 registries at babyuniverse and buybuybaby, so I am kinda stuck LOL I only did 2 to cover all the things I "had" to get and one site did nothave all the items.

Now I am still chaning my mond so many times it's funny/scary! LOL

[Bubeleh]

Hugs to everyone for the tough time. Hopefully all of your stresses get easier soon! :)

Erika Cute clothes. I got the whole Blue lion line as well from the outlet mall. The blanket is really nice that goes with the set. I got a few pieces in multiple sizes, and the overalls as well. They also had really cute bath sets, we got the dog one with the slippers.

Names Thanks for the input ladies. I also think Alexander is too long. I'm really torn between Michael and Asher. Michael is more traditional and rolls well, but Asher is (when pronounced right) has a more cultural flair to it, and is not common, which Ethan has been in the top 10 for quite some time. I guess I still have a couple months to toy over that and see if anything else comes up.

Registry We have about 40 items on ours ranging in price from $1.99 to $150. We put a lot of items in the $5 - $25 range to avoid looking "greedy" as someone mentioned above. Most people just bring $ to the bris so we didn't need a large registry. We didn't put any clothing on because we are getting hand me downs and the grandparents have been going crazy making purchases. We didn't put soaps or anything because we tend to buy in bulk at Costco, and I rather people buy things we need. Diapers I have allready purchased a large pack from Amazon in the newborn size, and a freind of mine has some left overs. Once he's past that size we can buy from Costco.

Michelle Check with BRU again, I have been able to add/delete stuff to my registry online. The transition away from Amazon was quite seemless.

[MidwesternGal]

Oh my! Everyone is having such a tough time at work and with insurance! I'm sorry for you all to have to go through that!!

Ericka--No fun about the bedrest. I think I would be quite sore after laying/sitting all day long, and it would be hard to keep your mind occupied! At least you can get up some though, and aren't in the hospital.

Bubeleh--I like Ethan Asher. It seems to really flow.

Registries/Shower--We are registered at Target and Wal-Mart. Prices from $1.99 to $89.99, about 45 items between the 2 of them. My shower is this coming weekend, and unfortunately, we only have gotten 6 "yes" responses!! I am hoping at least 10 people come! (My sister invited around 20ish). My mom is buying stuff from the registry, but no one else is, so far. It seems most people buy what they want anyways.

Heartburn--I think MichelleRenee mentioned this problem. My doctor gave me 16 days worth of samples of Prevacid. They are FABULOUS. My heartburn is sooooooo bad, and with my stomach shrinking to make room for the baby, I have been puking and nauseous again!!!! No fun!! I plan to get more meds at the appointment on Tuesday.
_________________
Nothing too much going on here. It's going to be a heat index of 100+ this weekend. I'm not looking forward to that! Humidity in the midwest is HORRIBLE!!

As I mentioned above, I hope my shower gets a few more responses! My sister has gone to quite a bit of work, so hopefully she gets to show it off!

Last night was the first night ever that I saw my stomach move on the outside when the baby moves! It was soooo weird!! I didn't know if I'd ever see it, because I have some "padding"! LOL. DH didn't get to see it though, since it only happened twice.

Question: What do BH contrax feel like? I have been getting some cramping in my uterus lately. . . .light to medium, like my period is coming. I know at the beginning of pregnancy, the cramping is due to stretching. Is it still stretching, or is this feeling now considered light BH contrax? Thanks!

[Ericka_Jarett]

Bubeleh - thanks about the outfits, cost $27 for all of it shipped. I wanted the blue jacket like the green one, but they only had up to 7lbs size left. I'm fortunate I got the pieces I did, because the next day lots of stuff was already sold out in anything that is a big size.

Finally broke down and got a netflix membership last week, got the first 3 movies yesterday and they are out for pick up already. I figure will have the membership for another 2 months and than can cancel since I will be busy with a baby anyway.

[Mommy2ml]

braxton hicks generally feel like your whole tummy tightening or getting hard like balled up. Does that make sense? They generally do not hurt but can get uncomfy the furthe along you are or the more often you get them. If you are getting painful cramping or cramping that comes more than 4 times per hour, let your doc know asap. I was told at this point up to 4 times an hour of BHs should be fine, but mor ethan that to get on the phone and let them know immediately.

HTH

erika Netflix sounds good for when you're all cooped up on bedrest! Even with onDemand you can't watch al lthe same movies over and over till they put new ones up after a month or so :P

As far as after the baby comes... I think it was like 3 weeks before I realized I could turn the tv on with the baby in the room and it would be ok LOL I had practically forgotten it was there.


weather the weather in Sept/Oct has been on my mind lately... how do you think it will be as far as weather goes, and how can you plan when the change of seasons the past couple of years have been so unpredictable in some areas? Like for all we know it could still be in the 80s every day when the baby gets here, or it could be 60s and fall weather! It's driving me nuts to plan... not that I need any more stuff to drive me nuts! LOL I mean we had such a late start to Spring this year, practically waited till summer to become warm around here... does it stand to reason we'll have an extended summer and delayed start of fall or winter? I am pretty much all set to get a fall outfit and summer outfit and such together just in case for coming home from the hospital, simply becaus eI do not want to be unprepared for whatever weather we go home in, kwim?

[Ericka_Jarett]

mommy2ml - I know what you mean about the weather, will probably be long sleeve outfit the baby will wear, since if it's warm we will have the AC on for us in the car and I know the baby will be use to warmth after 9 months inside.

Since we will be moving probably right after little man comes, will be busy with resting, taking care of baby and getting things organized in our new place.

[Ericka_Jarett]

Well ladies, not to freak anyone out, but there is an August baby already!!!!

[Rippy1010]

That's so funny about the August baby ... my parents' neighbor was due at the end of August, and her water broke on 6/28!!! It's really freakin' me out!

[Mommy2ml]

Yikes!


I am facing a decision to make re: the insurance an dthe birth of Logan.

Would you ever let $$ and expenses influence when you had your baby induced? (assuming you already knew you had to be induced by a particular date?)

I found out some more about our insurance sitch for after the baby is born and it's lookinglike the least expensive way to go is to have him before the 20th of Sept. like around 37wks or just after. I am shocked to even be considering it, but it is less expensive by hundreds of dollars at a time when I will be making nothing but disability (which is nearly nothing:P)

Would you even consider it if it meant a better financial sitch for your family?

I don't even know if my doc would consider it unless I begged and I sure as heck don't want to beg to put my baby at anyt sort of risk kwim?

I'm dizzzy and exhausted just thinking about it :P

[Ericka_Jarett]

Rebecca - At least at 37 weeks you are considered full term, so you should be in the clear. That is something you would have to talk to hubby and doctor about.

[Mommy2ml]

I know... it's driving me nuts to think about though. I do not want to make such a decision based on $$, but can see no alternative unless my doc puts a nix on it :( I hate having to make such decisions based on anything other than what is best for Logan and me health wise.

[bunnybeth]

MichelleRenee I don't think having a longer registry will make you look greedy. Just gives them more choices. We didn't put diapers, wipes, etc on the list, but we did put a shampoo/wash type gift basket that I thought was cute.

BH Mine feel like a pressure and when I touch my belly, it's hard as a rock for maybe 15 seconds or so. When I get them once in a while, no biggie, but it gets uncomfortable when I get a couple in a row or more than 5 a day.

weather Since I'm due at the end of the month, it'll probably be chilly weather. Early October is never easy to predict around here though.

Mommy2ml I'm sure your doc can tell you if doing that would be adding unnecessary risk to you or the baby. Then, you can make a more informed decision.

[dzmattie]

Hey Ladies

It really stinks that some of you are having insurance and work issues - not something you want to be worried about at this point - I hope they all work out.

Erika - I love NetFlix - my parents have it at their house and we go to visit alot in the summer - last night we watched Bewitched - it was actuallly cute and funny. We also watched the Family Stone a couple weeks ago which was ok....those are the only movies I have seen in months other than Disney and the Wiggles!

Midwestern - I get pretty bad BH - some of mine are painful which I need to talk to the doc about - but they basically feel like my stomach gets tight and I usually get alittle out of breath - they last for about a minute for me. My doc says mine are from the stress of my back pain and it stresses out the baby - so mine might be more "unusual" than most. I don't think they are supposed to be particually painful.

Mommytoml - I think your doc will either say that 37 weeks is fine or not fine. My doc is usually pretty decisive about these things - it probably woundn't even be something he would let us have an option on if he wasn't a fan of it. But he would give us a choice if it was to be more on the safe side - does that make sense? Good luck....

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

Ok my heartburn is out of control - so uncomfortable - I am taking the Zantac 150mg twice a day and I still vomited last night. Ugh - my doc wanted me to gain 5lbs by my next appt - which is Monday...and I have only gained 1.5lbs....uh oh. I honestly can't eat alot at a time....this has never been a problem for me....

[Ericka_Jarett]

Dz - I rented The Notebook (great movie, little tear jerker though) and Flight Plan (this was a good movie as well)

BH - I think I had some last night. That and mix it with TMI (gas) and it was pretty uncomfortable to sleep. My stomach would get tight a little, than relax. I was worrying all night it was pre-term labor. I don't want that this early. I get the steroid shots right before I am 30 weeks (day before, if he does prescribe them) will fill a little better after them, hoping the funneling went away with the bedrest I have been on since last week. I'm ok with having a mid-Sept baby, but don't want to see August in the birthday at all. (Rebekah was due August 7th, but that's not really the reason, it's just too soon for us)

[She-Ra]

Hi everyone!

I was traveling this week on what I think is my LAST work trip until 2007! Yippeee!

Insurance: Don't get me started! My insurance changed this year, of course. DS cost $250 2 years ago, and this little guy is going to be about $1800 out of pocket. I have heard worse though.

Registries:I don't have one this time, but I had a lot of people put "theme packages" together. The person who gave me the tub, also gave me washclothes, towels, shampoo, etc., so it is helpful to have small stuff on there.


Bubeleh: I like Ethan Michael. I absolutely love Ethan, but we are definitely using DH's middle name of Allan & didn't want him named after a furniture store!

Speaking of, we are about 90% sure that baby will be Henry Allan.

He has been moving & kicking a TON this week. I love it!

We have started getting the nursery together, and tranforming DS's room into a "Big Boy" room. I have the "big boy" bedding, but am chickening out on taking the crib away from him b/c he sleeps so well in it!

We did decide to order new bedding, the "baby boats" from pottery barn. The saleswoman at PBK talked me into everything except the sheets. We even bought the mobile, b/c it is DH's favorite part. I'll return what I don't want b/c I don't like being to "matchy" and I never used DS's quilt, which is my least fave piece in the group. I got it last week!

http://a293.g.akamai.net/7/293/5910/0010/image1.styleinamerica.com/pkecimgs/images/products/200627/0005/img97l.jpg

We also got a dresser & nightstand for the nursery. We just need to paint, add some molding, and steal the crib away from DS.

[Mommy2ml]

heartburn try taking a tums smoothie (smooth dissolve) while you're eating... for some reason it seems to really work for me lately. Add another one when you're done if needed and tehy really seem to do the trick... I take Pepcid Max strength daily and I still need a little help pretty much every day :p

insurance and induction I think all else being eqal I will go by the combo of my doc and my gut. I guess if we get stuck with a load of bills so be it, but I would rather the bills than guilt over putting DS at risk to save some money, kwim? Personally, I would be even happier if my doc said forget the induction, just go when you go... and let G-d decide when the right time is, but unless He decides earlier is better, then I guess we'll go with what the doc says is the safest course.

I still have to discuss it some with Rob, but I think he'll agree we do not want to rush him out just to have lower bills. we'll just have to manage with whatever happens.

[Pamela]

Insurance, we're not anticipating any problems there.

Weather, its still fairly warm here in early October, so I'm expecting pleasant weather and nice temperatures.

Heartburn, haven't had any.

[Ericka_Jarett]

Not sure if we ever had this QOTD, but here it is anyway.

QOTD - do your parents and IL's have a preference of what they want to be called?

I told my mom last year when I told her about being pregnant that she has to decide what she wants to be called. When Rebekah passed she signed the card Love, Nana. I had a Nana and grandmom and my step-grandmother we called by her nickname Muzz (Marion) She always knows if family is calling her or her friends are, since family calls her Muzz.

My MIL never said what she wanted to be called, I know when we lived with them, she commented about possibly being called Nana. Well now she is just going to be grandmom, cause I don't want my kids to have a Mom-Mom, I'm the only one that will be called Mommy. My cousins call their grandmother (my Aunt) mom-mom, if it was my mom it would be one thing, but not my MIL

[maplekitty]

BH - don't know if that's what I'm feeling (do you ever sometimes feel so clueless about things?? I sure do!). I've had a few times, after when DH and I are *ahem* "playing"....that my tummy gets hard....maybe that's it?? I dunno!!?? LOL

heartburn - I usually chew a few fruity tums every night before bed...it's almost become habit. But I've been having minor acid reflux since the very beginning!

weather - late september/ early october in Vancouver can still be nice. The cold and rainy season almost always starts about a week before Halloween. I can't even remember a Halloween as a kid that I *didnt* wear a jacket either under or over my costume, or was carrying an umbrella!

grandparents names - my in-laws will be the only set of granparents, so naturally they will be grandma and grandpa.

[Rippy1010]

Re: Grandparent Names

All of my nieces and nephews call my parents Mom-Mom and Pop-Pop ... they picked those names a long while back (since my oldest nephew is 18!! :eek: ). My ILs go by Gramma and Gramps by all of DH's nieces and nephews.

[dzmattie]

QOTD -

My parents picked Grammy and Pop - but DS changed Grammy to Mimi when he was beginning to talk and it stuck - my mom loves it now! My two grandmothers are both Grandma...

My IL's wanted to be called Gram and my FIL wanted to be called by his first name - ugh - especially since DS is the third! Too many of the same names - so when he started to talk - I started referring to FIL as Grandpa - he he he :o - and DS started calling him Granpop. It is cute - and we don't see them as much as my parents so it hasn't become an issue...yet! :D And my MIL wanted Gram but it was confusing DS - so he called her Nana one day and that stuck - he also has to Great Grandmothers on my DH's side who are both Nana too - now that is more confusing for him! We started calling them Nana Claire, etc....that helps alittle.

[Mommy2ml]

We went through this a few years ago, now everyone can just stay with their given/chosen names for this one too LOL

My parents are Grandma and Grandpa, though they went through times when Mackie called them Gamma and Papa.

Rob's parents chose Grandmommy and Granddaddy and complained and corrected her whenever she got it "wrong" :P

My Nana is her Nana :)

My Grandpa M is her Grandpa M.

I was just expecting to go the way I did when I was young (and still do) which was Grandma L(deceased), Nana, Grandpa B (deceased), Grandpa M. That way she'd know her grandparents' names. It irritated me some that my ILs were so picky, but I suppose that's their choice to make and if they don't want their grandchild knowing their names (as Rob rarely recalls his own grandparents' names) that's their problem :P

more later... got a meeting about to start! :)

[TaterBaby]

grandparent names: This is the first grandchild for my parents and my mom has it in her head that she is too young to be called any traditional grandmother names! Of course she made my grandmother a grandmother at age 45 and she is several years past that, but whatever. She has chosen "JJ". Her name begins with a "J" and growing up, her nickname was "JJ" so that's what she wants to be called. The only problem is my DH's first name starts with "J" as does our last name. He is truly a "JJ" and that is also his nickname. :rolleyes:

My dad has picked "Dado" for himself. Maybe DD will come up with names of her own!

ILs names have been established for 15 years. They are MiMi and Daddy Joe.

[bunnybeth]

dzmattie Yuck on the heartburn, I hope you feel better soon.

She-Ra Cute boat theme! I knew I wasn't going to use a quilt or have anywhere to hang one, so we opted against that as well.

maplekitty I think it's all to do with muscles, so those could very well be BH. I described mine to my OB and she's the one who told me that it was BH.

grandparent names Neither set has said anything yet. From what we called our g'parents, mine would probably be Grandma Meg and Grandpa Jim. Not at all sure about the IL's though.

This weekend will be our final installment of crib shopping. We're going up to USA Baby tomorrow, and if we see the perfect crib we'll order it then & there. Otherwise, we'll make the decision between the BRU crib and the one from Land of Nod and put in the order on Sunday. Still have to figure out what we're going to do about a changing table/dresser though.

Still no spotting, this'll be 7 days if it keeps up this afternoon/evening. :D

[kenswife]

Well, I had a follow-up ultrasound this morning. It was so neat to see the little guy 10 weeks later - he's so much bigger on the screen! Anyway, despite the 2-vessel cord, he's growing perfectly. The tech said he's somewhere around 2lb9oz. All his organs checked out well too. So, the appointment went well. The tech said the doctor will probably have me do another one in about a month. So far, baby is breech too. I know that there is plenty of time for him to change positions but I'll tell you the truth, he's been in the same position (kicking me in the same spot) for the whole time. Plus, he's pretty jammed in there. I guess we'll see at the next ultrasound.

The tech tried to get a good shot of his face w/3D ultrasound but he kept his arm in front of one side of his face and his umbilical cord was sitting in front of the other side.. So, she couldn't get a head-on shot. :)

Grandparent Names - We already have two kiddos and the names were pretty much decided by my first daughter. My parents are divorced and remarried so we have 3 sets of grandparents. We have a Papa (paw-paw), Mimi, Nana, Bill, Pappy and Ginga (we have no idea where it came from - my daughter has always referred to her as this).

Weather - Sept and Oct. are still fairly warm here. To me, it's the perfect weather though so I'm excited to be home around that time. By mid-Oct. it starts to get into sweater-weather. I love the fall atmosphere though!

Insurance - No problems here, fortunately. They have absolutely no restrictions and the baby will be covered from day 1.

[Pamela]

Grandparents, My parents will be Gramma and Grandpa and dh's parents will be Grandma and Grandpa.

[maplekitty]

Here's my latest belly pic!

http://images1.snapfish.com/3475%3B3337%7Ffp343%3Enu%3D3266%3E%3A7%3B%3E274%3E WSNRCG%3D32339458%3C5698nu0mrj

[Pamela]

Maplekitty, that is such a cute shirt!


28 week pic

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y145/MrsPamela/Baby/28weeks3days.jpg

[jeant]

Hi ladies!

Quick fly-by post ...

maplekitty Where did you buy your wedge pillow? It looks great. I am starting to have trouble finding a good sleeping position and this might be the solution. I was able to sleep on my stomach until last week! Not much anymore.

For all of you dealing with insurance issues -- I feel for you so much. That stuff is so infuriating, especially when you have to make medical decisions based on $$. I really hope we find a better solution to health care in this country than what we have now. For now it just makes me really mad!

[marathongirl]

I am hopelessly behind, but I will try and catch up on QOTDs

heartburn - Oh man, yes!!! Even water gives me heartburn.

weather - generally still pretty good here in early October.

grandparent names - My parents are Gram and Dziadzi (Polish for grandfather). DH's parents are Nana and Grandpa. They picked what they wanted to be called.

insurance - we are very fortunate in that we have good insurance that kicks in immediately.

She-Ra - I hear you on the crib! DD only started to STTN in March and I am not looking forward to changing anything in her sleep environment.

All the belly shots look wonderful!

bunnybeth - yeah for no spotting!!!

Hope everyone is feeling well!

[MichelleRenee]

I hope everyone is having a good weekend. I just wanted to give a head's up that I will not have internet access at home until we get settled into our new house. It should be about 2 weeks. I will post from work, and on weekends like this when I decide to walk in to the office.

I hope the heat isn't as bad everywhere as it is here today.:(

[marathongirl]

Good luck with the move MichelleRenee!

[maplekitty]

jeant - I bought it at Walmart, but I've seen it around at other stores as well (here in Canada). It's made by the company Jolly Jumper, and I have seen it on ebay. They also make one that had two wedges attached to each other, so you can put it under your back or bum so you don't roll over onto your back! I didn't realize they had this one until after I bought my one wedge - wish I could have got that one, since my main problem *is* rolling onto and sleeping on my back!

Michellerenee - good luck with the move!!!

[Rippy1010]

Question for the 1st Timers ~

Is there anyone else in here that is still just totally freaked out about the fact that you're going to have a baby soon, and all the changes it brings? Or am I the only one left that really hasn't made her peace with it yet? :o I gotta tell ya ... I. AM. SCARED. All I've been able to think about is crying, and chaos, and not having any time for myself, and fear of labor pains, and fear of the childbirth.

Phew. Had to get that off my chest. My mind has been a whirlwind for the last two weeks. I've always wanted to be a mom ... but now it's going to be here before I know it and I'm thinking: "Oh Crap!"

:o :D

[marathongirl]

Rippy - that is so, so normal! Having a baby is a HUGE, TREMENDOUS, and by and large WONDERFUL experience! Of course there are bad days and of course there are days when you might wish for your child-free life back. But I think it's important to keep a perspective on things in that the sleepless nights won't last forever and your child(ren) are young for so short a time. Can you find a new mom's support group or something? I found that getting out of the house helped a lot in those early months.

I'm assuming I passed my 1-hr GTT. My OB said if I didn't hear from the office by last Friday that things were fine and I never got a phone call. Yahoo!

[Rippy1010]

Thanks, marathongirl! I will have to check around to see if we have a "new moms" group like that locally.

[Rippy1010]

Just wondering ... is there any Oct '06 Mommies in here that are from the Downingtown/Coatesville/Exton/Kennett (or nearby) area in Pennsylvania?

[Jenzen01]

One complaint for the morning: I can't stand the humidity. Seriously, I can't breathe in this stuff. I wake up sweating, sweat all day and go to bed sweating. (Can you tell we don't have air conditioning?) It was almost 100 degrees on Saturday. Ugh. Please, please, please let this weather break soon.

Rippy - You sound totally normal. I second marathongirl's recommendation of finding a new mom's group ... it'll help you realize you're not alone in your feelings. There are plenty of tiring moments in motherhood, but then you get this absolutely incredible times like last night when I rocked Gabe to bed. He was playing with my face and naming my eyes, nose, mouth, etc. It was just one of those sweet, quiet moments that make me cry. Still can't comprehend that he's mine sometimes.

I'm officially in the third trimester! Whoo-hoo!

Oh, and we welcomed a new member to our family this weekend. My sister-in-law had a baby girl on Saturday night, so we went visiting yesterday. I've forgotten what it's like to hold someone so little. Gabe is HUGE in comparison.

One more thing ... I had some weird contraction-like pains on Sunday morning. They felt like menstrual cramps really low. I'll mention it to my dr., but they went away after I woke up and drank a bunch of water. Still, it wsa enough to startle me a little.

ttfn,
Jen

[Ericka_Jarett]

Rippy - I'm about 1 hour from that area. Hubby actually works in Paoli, PA

[Mommy2ml]

Rippy, I agree, very normal. I am a RO and I still feel a little that way - like can I handle 2? Will this one have similar feeding and colic problems? Will I again have years without sttn like with my DD? Since each baby is different and each birth is different I think it cna be unknown territory each time in a way. I also agree with finding a new mom group. There might be some info at your doc's office, or online... I think iirc there is something at matchingmoms.com or similar that matches you up with playgroups and other moms around your area? I don't remember if that's the right address though... I will have to check at home later.

weather I am trying to "ignore" the weather lately... telling myself that the 90s and hazy/hot and humid weather is just an annoyance... but it's supposed to go on another few days, so YUCK! The a/c's in the apartment are just not working as well as I would like and I am constantly feeling drained and sweaty, but no huge swelling I have noticed yet... It would really suck if I had to deal with Pitting edema again this time around :P
----------

We finally got the furniture!!! I got my commission ck Fri and we wnet to IKEA yesterday! Rob and Mackie put my new chest of Drawers and Logan's together once we got home. We also already got rid of my old dresser, and Rob is bringing some storage containers to the storage room today! The room is actually looking neat again too! LOL

One thing I am really worried about? the co-sleeper I bought on eBay! It STILL has not arrived!!! The woman sent it out on 7/5 via parcel post. She says she has a receipt from the PO, but no tracking number and no insurance :P I am starting to freak out that we might not get it and then I will have to scramble and buy another one before B-Day! :( I am disappointed too... this one came with a couple of extra sheets and had the blue and white check pattern and everything. Seemed so perfect for what we need. It would really suck if I had to file a claim thru eBay and paypal and wait to see what kind of a refund I could get :( Stuff I bought after it has already arrived, too. How long do you think I should give it? It's been almost 2 full weeks (will be on Wed.). Anyone know anything else I could do? I was considering calling up the local PO and asking if they have something there for me.. .maybe it was oversized an dthey're holding it there or something... it would not be the first time they forgot to leave a note or the note got lost or something and they had something of mine just sitting there waiting....

Anyway, I'm feeling generally good otherwise... feels good to know I can get started on washing and folding and putting away all Logan's clothes now! I am goign to buy a bottle of dreft and get started this afternoon :) Yes, I know you don't have to use it, but Mackie reacts somewht badly to the All free and clear and I love how dreft smells, so why not? LOL I'll pick some up today and get washing...

Turns out I did not read thoroughly enough the auction where I got the Nano bag and the one I got must be from a cat owner's home... there's cat hair all over it... not terrible, but for someone allergic :P So that'll be amongst the first washes I think LOL

Question for RO's and even First timers if you'd like: Are you considering having another? (I don't recall if it was asked before, so either it hasn't, or this pg is truly eating my brain! LOL) Rob wants to be "done" and I am on the fence about being either done or maybe having 1 more in a few years. But he wants me to sell off all the baby and maternity clothes after this time around and that's that...

I am just mulling over that I have about 11 weeks, tops to go before B-Day. It is so amaxzing how time is flying by!

[jbemommy]

Rippy That's not just how first-time moms feel either! I definitely feel panicked at times thinking about those first two months with a newborn (not the greatest time in my life) *and* a 2 y/o. Sometimes I wonder why I'm so eager to have this baby delivered, in a lot of ways pregnancy is easier than having a newborn. Not to scare you first-timers--having a new baby is also much nicer than being pregnant, it's sort-of a conflicted time. :)

[Rippy1010]

Mommy2ml ~ Even though I'm a 1st timer ... DH and I are planning on having one more in about two years. Not sure if that will be our "final" one, but at this moment in time we think we just want two.



ETA ~ Thank you to everyone for your responses!!!

ErickaJarrett ~ So, are you not in NJ anymore? Or is it that where you are in NJ is only an hour away? Just having trouble finding a mom group in my area so I thought I'd check these boards. :D

[Ericka_Jarett]

Rebecca - Hubby was just saying last night that he would like us to wait about a year before we get pregnant again. Wants to enjoy sex again without the pressure of having to get pregnant. Poor guy has been going months without right now and even after the baby still has to wait. He said last night the countdown is driving him crazy if he had to see it daily, although it's going down instead of up for how much longer to wait HEHE!!

I know one thing I will do what I can in that time to get down to a weight I would really like. Shouldn't be too hard with a baby, since I will be able to go out and about and will continue to eat in moderation. Don't want to deal with this diabetes anymore. Hope it's just GD and isn't regular, will find out in several weeks I guess

Rippy - I am in NJ, just about 1 hour from you. I think I am actually the closest one to you in this thread. And your feelings are perfectly normal. I am worried about how I will be as well, even though I was a nanny for 4 boys for 5 yrs. I know I'll do great, just hope we can get into our own place and settled once little man arrives. I think right now I am most anxious about the delivery. With Rebekah it was 10 mins after leaving the dr's office and without meds. This time I want it quick, but with meds and a better outcome of course. I was scared with her delivery, this time just a little anxious cause I know it will be different. This baby will be much bigger and I know the min I hear him cry, I am going to be so overcome with joy.

[jbemommy]

mommy2ml I'm not sure about having another one (would be our 3rd). Part of me feels sad that this might be the last time I'm pregnant, but this time I'm much more tired and achy than I remember being last time. If we did have another, I'd be 35 before I'd be ready, and then you have all that "advanced maternal age" stuff to deal with. I did tell DH that if this baby is a girl, I'd consider having a third if he really really wants a boy. I would have wanted to try again for a girl if we'd had 2 boys, so I feel that's only fair.

[Ericka_Jarett]

lol jbe. My boss said that she was shooting for a girl. She ended up with 4 boys, she finally called it quits. Her sister was shooting for a boy, she ended up with 5 girls than called it quits. My mom had my 3 brothers and 2 miscarriages. After her last miss before she got pregnant with me, she knew she wanted to try one more time, than she got pregnant with me. My dad always wanted a girl so if I was first would have probably been an only child.

[maplekitty]

QOTD - re: impending motherhood

Totally there with ya!!! If the baby could come out as a 5 or 6 month old, I'd be happy...but I keep hearing from all my friends "the first few months are the worst" I'm like, "OH GREAT! Thanks!" :p :p
I've wanted to be a mommy for so so long, but to suddenly be the soul provider for a helpless infant, to teach them and help them grow and to nuture them to adulthood - HOLY COW, responsibility!! I know I realized this when we started trying...but it's the sudden thought that that is right around the corner! Of course I keep trying to think about all the positives and I know it'll be amazing and wonderful....

As for more kids....well I want 4 - HA! and Curt wants 3, so atleast we;re somewhat on the same page. I am only child, so I envision a big family in my life. I can't wait to be a "matriarch" of a huge family, LOL ;)

[Pamela]

QOTD, impending motherhood, I am so excited I can hardly wait! I know it will be hard at first, and stressful, but I am just so looking forward to it all!

QOTD, more kids, I think we'll wait a bit after having this one to start thinking about another.

[Mommy2ml]

I feel sad about this maybe being the last pg as well... but I too have had a harder time this time around than last time, and Rob even expressed concern that next time might wind up even harder on me. Plus with having the ole "one of each" after this one, as much as I would love a "tie-braker" I guess I could be happy I get the best of both experiences :) Also, if we have another, I will be pretty close to 34/35 at that point too, and I honestly don''t need any added risk factors :p

Rob is one of those rare few who never seems to have had any urge to want one more than the other. I just knew I wanted to have at least 1 of each (and then some) but the then some was before I knew all that went into being pg and then raising a newborn and infant LOL

maplekitty - as difficult as the first few months can be, IMO they are also some of the most rewarding :) the first smile, the first coo, the first rolling over, first sitting up, it's an amazing, awesome time with the firsts of the firsts. At that point, you really are their everything and as mich responsibility that brings, it also brings joy and happiness beyond comparison (even with the PPD I suffered I still felt the joys too, I just cried while I laughed LOL ;)) There is so much to look forward to and so much to those first cuddles and snuggles. I can almost still feel my DD wrapped snug in my arms, how her face lit up the moment I touched her face or tickled her belly or played with her feet :)

Just try to focus on the happy and the good and you might find a lot of the worries slip away :)

[kenswife]

More kids - Unless there's a *suprise* in our future then it looks as though this is our last pregnancy. I think 3 will keep me plenty busy though :) We go back and forth every once in a while about a 4th. I think that we've agreed though that we really would like to move beyond the "baby" stage, as sad as it is to see that stage pass by. The one benefit that we have is that we're still young so if we change our minds, we have plenty of time to try again. Though, I'll tell you that it will be nice to enjoy eachother without the pressure of having a baby :) I'm going to enjoy that tremendously. We've really been blessed with the kids that we have - I couldn't ask for anything better!

maplekitty - Honestly, I never thought the first few months were very difficult at all. And that's not to say that I wasn't sleep deprived like every other new mom. I actually find that the first few months are nice because you have time during the days to *recover* a bit. After a certain point, I found that my kids got so active that whatever sleep I may have missed at night could no longer be made up during the day. But, regardless of what "part" seems to be the hardest, the whole mommy experience is soooo rewarding! That's why I've done it (or will do it) 3 times!!!

[hmdelf]

We will be trying for number 3 near the next baby's 1st b-day. I will be close to the 35 year age mark as well, so we may start to try a little earlier.

[Jenzen01]

We're undecided about No. 3. This could be our last ... finances are looking sort of scary right now, so we'll see how it goes. And, we'll see how we can handle two. :)

[MidwesternGal]

Hello all!

Impending Motherhood: I'm sorta nervous. This wasn't really planned, so I think I'm having quite the time getting used to the idea. However, millions of women have done it before me, so I'm sure I'll be fine, too!!

More Babies:I am not exactly a big "kids" kind of person, so I doubt we'll have more than 2. . . in fact, we may even just have 1 if we are happy. If we do have a 2nd child, it will not be until DC#1 is in preschool (so about 4 years down the road).
______________________________
Things here are HOT HOT HOT as well! It was 100 degrees at 8 p.m. last night. Today the heat index (ie, counts in humidity) is 107!!! Ackk!

We had my shower yesterday! It went really well! I'm so glad we decided not to share the gender. . . we got a LOT of useful things! It was a lot of fun, and there was a mix of people from HS, college, and family there. The only bad part was that my SIL decided (despite having been told REPEATEDLY) that she needed to rub my tummy. UUUGHHH. I'm going to order a "hands off" t-shirt from somewhere, because I just about broke her wrist. I'm sorry, but I don't grab her body parts. . . she has no right to grab mine!!

Anyway, I wanted to post a pic from the shower. It's my sis, me, and the cake (decorated to match our jungle/safari theme for bedding/stroller).

http://images1.snapfish.com/347639559%7Ffp345%3Enu%3D3283%3E687%3E33%3A%3EWSNR CG%3D323395973943%3Anu0mrj

[Mommy2ml]

you know, one thing I recently realized... not a single person has walked up to me and put their hand on my belly once this pg... at least not without asking! That is amazing considering last time my dad was touching my belly from like 5wks on! LOL Plus the only people who even ask to have been manly Mackie and this one lady at work... she's in her early 20s and real naive and young about things like pg and parenting and stuff, she asks out of curiosity and I don't mind that. I just realized how I feel much less like a Budha belly this time around! LOL

Here's a question for everyone... What detergent do you plan on using for washing baby's clothes and gear?

I plan I think oin using Dreft in the beginning. I know it's not really necessary, but I love how it smells and it works great on stains all won't seem to touch. Also, since you can't use fabric softener on the stuff, dreft adds a touch of softeness that most detergents just do not offer.

[Rippy1010]

MidwesternGal ~ I know what you mean about the belly-rubbing. My friend did it at dinner last night. I wanted to scream and break her wrist, too.

[Jenzen01]

detergent - I used Tide FREE last time. This time, I bought a bottle of ALL for babies. I think it's new ... supposed to be competition for Dreft, which I think is really expensive. I use a scent-free dryer sheet for the baby stuff.

[bunnybeth]

MichelleRenee Hope your move goes well!

Jenzen We've been getting the terrible humidity as well. And, though we have a/c, we can never get it to "go" upstairs enough so I ended up waking up all sweaty this morning, even though a fan had been on in our room all night. Ugh.

MidwesternGal You look great, and the cake was so cute. Too bad your SIL couldn't respect your no-touching-the-belly wishes. :p

more kids DH and I want a second at least, but I wouldn't mind 3 personally. Still, that'll be it, even if it's all boys.

----

We had a successful crib shopping trip! We bought this crib by Legacy (http://www.childcraftindustries.com/cgi-bin/item.pl?Site=legacy&Item=203) in the white finish with the matching dresser. I was pretty surprised that both pieces were in stock, so we paid for them there, and can now go back to pick them up at any point. Apparently, you can buy a separate guard rail to use it as a toddler bed later (didn't notice it before, but I could ask about it when we go back) so would it be worth it to buy the rail? As in, would most toddlers need it?

Otherwise, I still haven't had any additional spotting, so I'm officially off pelvic rest. Tomorrow I go for my 1 hour GTT and OB check-up.

[MichelleRenee]

I hope everyone is staying well hydrated in this heat!!

Thanks for the well-wishes on the move. Mike has been working so hard on packing every night and it is such a blessing. I really haven't had to do much at all, physically. I guess I make up for it by being the one who is in contact with the loan people and the realtor. I am getting so excited about this move. I really just can't wait!

My shower invitations went out today. The big day is August 27 and I can't wait for that either. I have had to really hold back on buying things until afterwards. I know that if I can just be patient we'll get almost everything we need as gifts.

More kids: I've been thinking about this a lot. Mike and I have pretty much agreed we only wanted one for such a long time, but I'm not sure where we'll end up. I have always wanted to adopt 1 or 2 older children at some point in my life. (i.e. 10 or older) I have always felt for those kids who are "too old" for anyone to want to adopt. But I think that anything as far as adoption or getting pregnant again will be at least 4-5 years from now, if not longer.

Impending Mommyhood: This one kinda hit me the other day. I have been so focused on surviving pregnancy and l&d and I haven't allowed myself to worry about being a mom yet. What scares me most is that when I babysit I am SO happy when the kids go home. With Tristan, we are the ones he is going home to! I am also worried that I will be so determined to do everything just right and in a certain way and that I will make myself crazy before I realize that you sometimes just have to go with the flow.

I think it is something we all worry about but once the baby comes it just comes naturally. At least that's what I keep telling myself.:D

MidwesternGal, I LOVE the cake! Did you have a jungle theme? That's what I am having! If you don't mind I might send that picture to my friend who is making my cake!

[jeant]

My e-mail server is down, so that means I get to hang out here instead of work!!

I have LOTS of those "impending motherhood" thoughts. Just last night I had a bad leg cramp and thought man, if this is what childbirth is like, what the hell was I thinking? :) I'm mostly scared of the sleep dep and the lack of independence / lifestyle change. But I always knew I wanted kids, and I guess you have to take the bad with the good.

About more kids -- we're going to see how having one goes. We've always thought we would have 2.

And about the over 35 thing -- I just have to say please, please don't let that stop you if you want more kids. Having a kid when you are over 35 these days is, and I have to put this in all caps because it is so true, NO BIG DEAL AT ALL. The fact that I will turn 35 before my due date has so far meant only one thing: my insurance paid for my CVS, which is something I wanted anyway. I didn't have to have it, and there have been no extra tests, doctor visits, concerns, anything at all. Almost everyone I know with kids has had at least one after 35 (an occupational hazard in academia!), and it really doesn't change anything. Even getting pg after 35 isn't as hard as the media makes it out to be. I've read the medical journal articles, and it's been overblown. Just one example: the wedding I attended this weekend featured a 7-months-pg bride who is 38. She got pg on their second cycle of trying.

[Pamela]

Its been really hot here lately too. My dh keeps telling me that everyone at work is saying to him, "Oh your poor wife being pregnant in this heat!" I just laugh because I absolutely hate hot weather and being out in the sun for long periods of time, so I just stay inside where its air conditioned and cool whether I'm pregnant or not.

I spent the afternoon sewing -- I bought a bunch of really nice flannel the other day and now I have a whole bunch of receiving blankets. Next I'll make a whole bunch of burp cloths.

MidwesternGal, you look great, and the cake is too cute!

Bunnybeth, I like that crib!

QOTD, degergent, I always use Tide Free and Bounce Free dryer sheets because I have sensitive skin and can't stand to use scented stuff. I did end up buying this massive huge thing of Dreft at Toys R Us last week because I had a coupon, but I'll probably switch to Tide Free sooner or later for baby stuff.

[She-Ra]

Detergent: We used Dreft for the first year for DS, and will probably do so for baby brother. I LOVE that smell.

We are also undecided about #3. I'll be 35, 2 days after my due date, but I luckily got PG quickly both times around. I have friends who found out they couldn't have children at 25, and those who did get PG easily at 38, so you just really never know.

[Mommy2ml]

[/B]]michellerenee[/B]- I am sure you've heard it befoore... but you can plan all you want, butin the end you pretty much just need to relax and trust your instincts. Every one makes mistakes, you just need to accept it's ok :)

jeant- sleep deprivation- I barely noticed till she was a week or 2 old at least - adrenaline and catnaps were my friend :)

over 35- I just figure at this point I am having all these issues and I am not even 30 yet... why take a chance getting pg when I am up to there being additional inherent risks. Many I know are having babies past the 35 mark and that's fine, I just think I would rather not press my luck having already had to go through an amnio and constant screenings through this pg.

Fabric Softener/dryer sheets The reason not to use them is not the scent... it's the affect they have on the flame retardency of the baby clothes. The softening agents used by either one can cause a break-downin the flame retardency added to the fabrics in most baby clothes and in toddler pjs as well. Detergents like dreft soften a bit without those particular agents, and so preserve the added safety of the flame retardency in the fabrics.

As for the detergent I used for DD... I think I recall using Dreft till she was at least 8mo old, then switched to All free and clear, but more recently switched to melaleuca since she was having a reaction tot he All it seems.

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

The heat is hitting hard. Great a/c at work, but we're gonna have to buy another couple of window units for the apartment I think. One for Mackie's room, one for the hallway. it's stifling in there till it gets dark and the heat starts releasing from the house. Our bedroom is a pretty much uninsulated finished attic. Funny how I called it a loft back when it was comfy LOL. So the heat is consuming us up there even with the a/c running up there. The a/c in the living room just cannot manage to cool the whole main floor of the apartment either, so we're gonna have to add units ASAP. We were eating ice and walking around with ice packs and cool wet cloths most of last night.

I started washing baby clothes yesterday, but due to the heat and humidity the dry time is HUGE. Like I washed them and had them hanging by 5 last night and this morning at 8 they were still wet and hanging up drying when we left for the day!!! 1 onsie was dry, so I put that away. I washed a few more outfits and hung them up a bit away from the others, but at this rate I shouldmaybe wait on the drying rack that should be arriving any day - I bought one off eBay and it's got more space than the pole we have hanging right now. I wound up breaking it partially anyway yesterday.. .we need a new one... I think it's called a tension rod... you twist it to expand it or make it shorter and it has those rubber stoppers at either end to avoid damaging the wall. I was trying to get it more snug because it kep falling under the weight of all the hangers and I heard the spring inside sprung :P

Anyway, doing generally well otherwise... heat is supposed to level off after some rain tomorrow... in the mean time the heat index predicted for today is around 109 :eek:

Keep cool everybody!

[Ericka_Jarett]

Our AC isnot working as of yesterday, it seems to not be cooling the air in the unit now. Hoping our Pastor that is in AC work can come and look at it. Lat night I got a wet washcloth and put that on my neck and head. This heat is horrible and has to go away.

Had my OB's appt today, baby sounded good, I am measuring perfect and got my Rhogam shot in the hip. I go next week for another u/s at the Peri's office. I got all my OB appts scheduled through August now as well.

[maplekitty]

What's the Rhogam shot?? I havnt heard anything about this from my doc??

[Rippy1010]

What's the Rhogam shot?? I havnt heard anything about this from my doc??
I believe it's only for people that have Rh factor issues ... when the mom is Rh - . Correct me if I'm wrong, Ericka! :D

[Mommy2ml]

What's the Rhogam shot?? I havnt heard anything about this from my doc??
If you are Rh negative you get the rhogham shot to make sure neither you nor the baby develop blood problems if the blood should mix at any point in time. If you are Rh positive, you never need to worry about this. PLUS even if you don't know your blood type, your doc does, it's part of the very first blood tests you get when you become pg. :) HTH

[marathongirl]

laundry detergent - I used Dreft for DD until she was about 5-6 months old.

more kids - no, we are 99.9% sure we're done after K2 arrives. This pregnancy has been much more physically demanding on me than when I was PG w/ DD and we just decided to be happy with two.

ericka - sorry your AC broke! We just had central A/C installed this spring and I'm wondering how I made it through 5 summers in this house without it.

Hope everyone is feeling well!

[Ericka_Jarett]

maplekitty - I am A- so have to have the Rhogam (a blood product, they give me a card to carry with me) shot in order to prevent any issues that could arise if the baby has a + blood type and our blood gets mixed during delivery. As a negative blood type, We get a shot at 28 weeks and at time of delivery. If you are a + blood type no need for the shot.

Detergent- I have a bottle of Dreft that I got when I was pregnant with Rebekah. I have so far washed all the clothes except for my last order I ust received of little mans clothes. I also have 2 bottle on my registry, in time will go and just use the detergent that we use.

Update on my week. Aside from out AC being an issue right now and the house sitting at about 90 degrees inside and 104 outside. Vacation Bible School started last night and what a night it was. Tonight we are having cake for one of the helpers as it's his 30 b-day today.

[Michelle]

Rhogam shot - I get mine next Friday. I never even knew my bloodtype until I got pregnant. I just can't wait to get it over with. I'm going to have to warn the dr. that my blood pressure is going to be through the roof when I go in b/c I'm so paranoid about shots!

I hope that everybody is doing well! Everybody stay cool and hydrated! :)

[Ericka_Jarett]

Michelle - it's not that bad really, you don't see them give it to you because it's given in your hip/rump area. Took about 2 secs and we were done. Don't even think about it. My nurse actually said she warmed it a bit while finishing her paperwork, just so it wouldn't be so cold.

[kenswife]

I had a doctor's appt. this morning. The funny thing is that I spend so much time counting down the days until my next appt. and the whole appt. lasts about 3 seconds. They hear the heartbeat, measure my stomach, have me pee in a cup and I'm out the door!. I know I should be thankful that there's nothing that's wrong to make my appts. longer but sometimes I feel *cheated* out of an appt....haha! So, my next appt. is August 3rd. So, I'm down to every two weeks now! I finally feel like I'm getting somewhere in this pregnancy now :)

Sorry to anyone struggling in this heat! It was 95 degrees here yesterday and 90 today. Yuck! Ericka, I can't imagine having no a/c! Hopefully the temperature declines quickly or you're able to get into some a/c soon! I like wam weather but even I couldn't handle the muggy 95 degrees yesterday. I was cranky all day :)

[jbemommy]

Had my appt. today, everything is fine. BP is still good, so he didn't do an u/s after all. I'm going Thurs. to have my 3 hr GTT--am I the only one having to do this??
I got my Rhogam in my arm this time, and it was much less painful than last time. Really not bad at all.
I can't imagine not having a/c in this heat. It's not as bad here as it is in the rest of the country, but I still can't stand to be outside for very long.
Next appt. is 8/1.

[Rippy1010]

3 hr GTT--am I the only one having to do this??


Don't worry, Shana ... I had to do it, too! :D

[MidwesternGal]

MichelleRenee--Yes, go ahead and use the picture for your shower! I'm glad you like it! We are doing a jungle theme, also. Good luck with your move in this heat! Stay hydrated!

Kenswife--I start 2 week appointments now, too! Crazy, huh? We're getting down to the end! Whoppee!

Ericka--Sorry to hear about the A/C! I would probably die, since I tend to run pretty hot, even without the "bun in the oven", hehehe. I hope you get it fixed soon!
_________________________

Well, I just got back from my appointment. . . . it was good because I passed the 1-hour test! YAY!!!

BUT. . . . my heartrate has been up, and the doctor detected a murmur (I've never had one before). So I have to go back in Friday the 21st for an EKG, then wear a heart monitor next week for 24 hours. The doctor didn't seem too worried about it, since I'm young and in pretty good health. She said best case scenario is it's just a flukey-thing, a "noisy heart" of sorts. . . worst case. . . failure (which she doubts). So I guess we'll wait and see. My DH is ready to tie me to a chair, with all these problems I've been having!

My next regular appointment is Tuesday Aug. 1st.

[Ericka_Jarett]

We got into the house tonight after VBS and it was hotter inside than out. We had a nice storm come through while we were at VBS so it cooled things off a bit. Hope it stays this way now, they say 80s for the next few days at least. Hubby told me as we headed up to church, see about going to someone's house to hang tomorrow if it's hot still. Told him would call a friend of mine if it was. We opened all our windows now and have a nice cool breeze coming through the house.

We hate to have to have the AC fixed if it's going to be pricey, because my brother is getting a new AC system next year. Praying it stays cool the rest of this summer so we don't have to get this one fixed.

[MichelleRenee]

I am still surviving in the heat here. For the first time ever I am even miserable in AC! I am usualyl such a freeze-baby, so this is all new to me.

I was thikning that my m/s had returned as I have been a little nauseous the past few days. I think it is just the baby's position though. I keep getting kicked right by my stomach and it makes me feel a little sick. Nothing horrible though. It's probably healthier for me to not be hungry all day. This way I don't eat junk food all day long.

I am guessing I passed my 1-hour GTT and do not have to take the 3-hour. I did the test almost 2 weeks ago and haven't heard anything.

I am about a week away from the third trimester. (I think... it starts when I hit 27 weeks, right?) I think I am the last from the October moms, so then we will all be in the final trimester! Already? Yikes. I start my pre-natal yoga today so I am hoping it will make the last trimester a little more comfortable for me.

I have been thinking a lot about childbirth lately. It is something I have always been a little scared of, but hearing other people's stories has helped me feel a little more relaxed about it. I have also been pretty set on getting an epidural, but now I'm not so sure. I am pretty sure I will still want one, but I think I want to try to go as long as possible without. For that reason, and because not everyone who wants one is guaranteed to have one, I have started researching some natural childbirth stuff. I figure we should all know some breathing and relaxation techniques whether we are going natural or not. So I've got the yoga classes tonight, I will learn some breathing techniques at my September pregnancy classes and I am looking for more classes in my area. I would like to find one that isn't necessarily all about natural childbirth and that will just teach a variety of methods for dealing with the pain and anxiety of l&d. The anxiety is another big issue for me. When not pregnant I take Prozac to help deal with panic attacks. I haven't been on it since I got pregnant and I haven't really had any panic attacks either. But I want to be prepared to have one during l&d.

That's all for today. Oh, and today is 100 days until my EDD!

[MamaBear]

I haven't been here forever! Or I should say that I haven't posted forever. We are shortstaffed at work and summer is always the crazy time for us. I have been trying to follow along.

DS had a cold last week. Of course, I got it 2 days later and am now dealing with the nasty cough that follows it. Worst thing is that we are flying to L.A. to visit my brother and SIL. We are going to Disneyland 1 day. I am bummed that I don't get to go on Space Mountain. That is my favorite ride there. Oh well, next time.

The heat here has been awful! I am just glad that I am not in the E. Bay where there has been temps in the triple digits. At least here it has only been in the 90's :rolleyes:

As for me, went to the dr. last week. Everything is measuring right on. BP is still low. I finally put on some weight. I really have to start watching what I eat again. I have become a little relaxed when it comes to eating. If I keep going at this rate, I will gain way too much. The dr. didn't say anything though. Next appt. is 8/14 After that appt., we start the every 2 weeks appts. I go for the 1 hr GTT tomorrow. Ooooh fun!! I actually remember it not being bad at all last time. I will call for those results on Monday.

Other than that, not much going on here. We really need to get going on the big boy room for DS. I have a feeling we are going to run out of time with this one. I am just hoping that this one stays put until at least 38 weeks if not longer!! I need the time.

Detergents- We did use Dreft for the first month or so. Then we switched to Ivory Snow. It smelled so good. But, it only came in a tiny box. Not sure what we will do this time. Maybe Dreft for awhile then switch to a dye and perfume free? Haven't really thought about it.

Anxeity about motherhood- It doesn't matter if it is your first or third child, there are always anxious feelings about motherhood. Will you be a good mom, will you make the right choices for your child, and of course all the what ifs that go along with it. You get through it. Will you make some mistakes? Probably. But that goes with the territory. You learn and then move on. And try to take all the advice you get from others with a grain of salt. It may have worked for them, but might not for you. I cringe when MIL says things that are very old school and go against what I feel is right. This is my child. I will screw him up the way I want to ;)

MichelleRenee- I think it is great that you are looking at breathing a relaxation techniques. You never know how things will progress with labor and you may be surprised. It is better to be a little prepared for the things that might happen which are out of your ideal picture of what labor may be. I had not prepared for a natural birth. I too wanted to go as long as possible without pain meds. Luckily I had taken a class that went into some breathing and relaxation tips. It helped tremendously when the contractions got really bad and when I found out I couldn't have the epi. This time, I am taking a yoga class. This has been awesome for those techniques. I feel so much more prepared this time.

More kids- I am really sad that this may be my last pregnancy. DH wants to get snipped after this one. I told him to hold off and not make any rash decisions. I would love to try for a girl but not sure if finances will allow it. It wouldn't be for at least a couple of years and I don't know if I will want another one then. But I want that option!!

Have a good day. Try to stay cool.

Sara

[Jenzen01]

Morning, all.

Had my appointment yesterday along with Gabe's 18-month WBV. Everything looked good. I'm measuring right on at 27 weeks. Baby was breech at the appointment, but I know she just flipped a few days ago because I was all of a sudden getting kicked down low. Plus, her head was right up in my ribs, which gave me indigestion. I think she moved a little sideways last night.

I am going to see a physical therapist about this butt pain thing. My dr. comfirmed that it's a joint issue (can't remember the name). Hopefully, the PT will give me some exercises and other things that will help me deal with it throughout the rest of the pregnancy.

I have one more monthly appointment before going to biweekly.

My next appointment is Aug. 22.

I was really hoping to go to biweekly appointments after yesterday's appointment just because it would make me feel further along. Now it feels like I have a lllloooooooooooooonnnnnnnnnngggggggg way to go.

[MichelleRenee]

I just found this at target.com. SO cute for our October babies!

http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B000GIPY9I.16._SCLZZZZZZZ_SS384_V64589174_.jpg

[Ericka_Jarett]

MichelleRenee - that outfit it adorable.

Forgot to add about my appt yesterday - my weight was up 1 lb over my appt 2 weeks ago, I am still at about -4 lbs as far as weight gain this pregnancy. Doctor was pleased. Mentioned to someone at church yesterday and she said you know what, you will loss it all after the baby comes, so will be more to the weight I was trying to reach before I got pregnant and than with bf should drop even more.

Well now that I am 29 weeks, my ticker says baby is close to 3 lbs, 15.5 " long and can open and close his eyes.

[bunnybeth]

Ericka It's too bad your a/c broke this year. It was much milder the last couple of summers. Hopefully it'll cool down soon. (I really don't want to see our bill for this month!)

MichelleRenee I thought it was so cool when my ticker went to 99 days left, just 1 more day until you get there. :) (I had seen the pumpkin onesie as well, I might have to get it.)

MamaBear Nice to hear from you again. I hear you on the Disneyland bummer. I'm just skipping Six Flags this year, because I'm a coaster junkie and it would be pointless to go for me this summer. Always next year...

Jenzen Hope the physical therapist will figure something out for you. Less stuff to deal with when pregnant.

---

The 1 hour GTT wasn't too bad yesterday. The glucose thing wasn't fun to drink, but whatever. The worst part was getting there, I left extra time to make it to the appointment, but there was a car fire on the Tristate which seriously messed up traffic. It took me about twice as long to get there, and I was so stressed out when I arrived. They had to take my blood right away, even before checking my weight and blood pressure. At least I didn't have to do it over though. Everything else looked good, and it was nice to stay dressed for an appointment again.

Next appointment is August 1.

My OB decided just to start the every 2 weeks appointments now, which is fine by me. I usually get to leave work early on those days.

[Mommy2ml]

mamabear-we're in the similar boat - DH is "done" and I am not so sure rightnow... I am getting the Mirena and if we don't decide to have another one by the time it has to be removed, then we're done and DH gets snipped :)

---------

My appt is this afternoon. Last night I realized I have pitting edema at my ankles. I had it towards the end with Mackie, but not this earlu I don't think. I have also been having major problems with waking during the night or very too early - like 330/4am and not being able to fall back to sleep. Today I have been up since 330, except for a couple of nodds off cat naps on the couch after DD got up for the day. I have had an on and off headache and been getting little pains in my stomache area. Logan is also tossing and turning most of the day too. At this point, I am just not sure which end is up, though yesterday he was definitely head up. This morning I leaned over hiwle sitting to reach something on the floor... I guess he did not like being cramped in like that and he gave such a big kick he made me jump! this kid is gonna play soccer or be a kicker or something! LOL

People keep telling me I look like I am nearing the end or ready to pop, or almost there, or just plain huge :P I know I look big, but it is all baby I think. I still have 2-2.5mo to go and people act so shocked when I tell them :p

I need a massage. I only asked for a foot massage last night sinc eI was more concerned with the pitting edema than with the aches and pains in my neck and shoulders.

I will update tomorrow on my appt later today. Rob's coming home early to p/u Mackie and I am going to just go home after the appt and rest a while.

Oh! I go tthe drying rack I ordered off eBay and it's great! things are realy drying better now that I can lay them out better to dry. I have totally been doing loads of baby clothes the past few days. So much fun to do before the baby gets here LOL Will send the laundry (other than the dipes) out with Rob after he;s here though LOL.

[lawgirl4]

27w6d
just wanted to post quickly since I've been MIA for a while - was on vacation in Maine and NY (visiting family) since July 2nd, and just got home today. Had a lovely semi-surprise shower in NY on sunday and people were incredibly generous... amazing how time is flying now, no?! :)

[Rippy1010]

This morning I leaned over hiwle sitting to reach something on the floor... I guess he did not like being cramped in like that and he gave such a big kick he made me jump!

Your post made me LOL because my Logan does this, too. Any time I bend over, or sit in a position that might be "crowding" him, he gives me a couple good kicks. Today, at work, he did it because for 2 seconds I bent over. I said to him, "Oh, you don't like to have other people in your space, do ya?!"

Sometimes I just amuse myself, don't I?! :p :D

[MichelleRenee]

Tristan does the same thing and I find myself talking to him a lot when he does it. He kicks a LOT when I lay on my side at night and I have to *remind* him that on my left side is the best way for me to lay and it's for his own good!

[Maxicat]

I am officially fat. At least my mother has been telling everyone that, now my aunts will only get me exercise stuff for my baby shower. Can I trade her in on a newer model?

Next appointment July 28 then I start going every two weeks.

At the last appt the Dr told me she will not allow me to go over my due date. They will induce me on or before October 20. I am not sure if I am worried about the induction, I just have not heard that many great things about it, but I will try and be open minded.

I am done picking out my registry, my baby shower is scheduled for Sept 09. I have registered at Babies R Us and Pottery Barn.

For those of you who have had children before, what was the biggest waste of money on your registry?

[dzmattie]

Hey Ladies -

I have alot of SO's I want to do but until then...have any of you gotten emotional and kind of down during the last few weeks? I have never been a "down" person but today I feel like I am just going to cry for no reason....I just feel sad...don't know why - have no reason to at all. I don't remember this happening with my last pregnancy! I guess I am just wondering if I am a weirdo or something....I mean alot of people feel like this sometimes right? :(

[Rippy1010]

dzmattie ~ I went through a real emotional crying jag last week. So, I'm there with ya. Darn hormones.

[maplekitty]

Had my appnt today.
All is well in baby land!
BP is good, she didnt say what it was, just that it's "excellent".
Baby's HB is 144 and is measuring right on track.
I'm up 6 lbs from last appnt - oops! She didnt say anything about it, but I'm saying oops! Maybe that's from the BBq I went to last night!
I got an inhaler for the really bad congested cough I have right now. I'm not so good with the inhaler, so it's going to take some practice!

Next OB appnt is Aug 2nd - I got every two weeks from now on.

Next U/s is Aug 10th

[Bubeleh]

Ericka you poor thing with the A/C, I think I would die. Hopefully you can find a cooler place to spend the days.

Its super hot here in SoCal (100+ most days), but I'm inside 98% of the time with A/C's & fans so its bearable.

Not too much has been going on so I haven't been posting, just following along. I called my OB today to see if I could travel to Vegas for business around 35 weeks and I found out that I have a "leash" that starts on Sunday when I hit 30 weeks. She recommends no more than 1hr away from the hospital at any time. So no more trips for me. Atleast the beach is less than an hour away ;)

I have my Brothers wedding this weekend, which the surrounding events includes a much needed pedicure!

And the biggest development is that I actually look pg now, not just fat! I think my belly finally outgrew my BBs!

Hope everyone is well and stays cool.

[hmdelf]

Hi All!
Had my ob appt yest. All is well. My bp is 98/65. baby's heartbeat was great. Measuring slightly smaller than I am, but they said not to worry. I start my 2 week appoint. now. I also go for my GTT before my next appointment. which is Aug 1st I didn't get weighed because the OB had me go to the hospital. My appt. was in L&D because she had 3 ladies in labor!:( :eek: That will be us in 90 days or sooo!!!!
The weather is starting to break around here. We have Ac so it's not too bad.

We use dreft still for DS. I love it and figured I would stay with it until he was 2. Now that we have the next one on the way, I'll just keep using it for both children.

[Pamela]

I just signed us up for childbirth classes. Its one night a week for four weeks, starting a few weeks from now. I had pretty much forgotten all about doing something like that, but the other day dh asked out of the blue if we were going to take any classes. I figured since he was showing such interest I'd take advantage of it :p It should be fun, they were excited when I phoned to sign up and it'll most likely be taught by one of my co workers. And its free too!

I just made several lasagne's to freeze for easy meals when the baby is here. My goal is to make a big batch of something and freeze it every couple of weeks so I'll be well stocked up. It would be nice to just go to Dream Dinners and do it there, but when I mentioned it to dh his response was, "Why can't you just go to the grocery store and buy the stuff and do it at home?" *sigh* I guess I've still got time to talk him into it. (I think he secretly just likes my cooking)

[marathongirl]

Good morning ladies! Hope everyone is feeling well!

dzmattie - yes, I've been pretty emotional this whole pregnancy and that's very unlike me.

Glad everyone is having good appts!

Not much to report on my end. I pick up my new sewing machine today - so excited!!! And tomorrow we leave for the ILs for the weekend. Not so excited. Anyway - stay cool!

[MichelleRenee]

I went to my first pregnancy yoga class last night and it was great. I felt like it was really helping to stretch my abdomen and back muscles to relieve that pain I've been having and I really felt relaxed. I will probably just go every other week because it is kind of $$$, but I think it will be worth every penny in the long run!

[Mommy2ml]

dzmattie-emotions run deep here as well. Lots of flip flops between crying and anger and happiness and laughter LOL

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Had my appt yesterday, all seems well. My BP is creeping up a little, but still well in normal range it seems... just higher than my own norm I guess. Gained 1lb in 2 wks so that's good. He's not concerned about the pitting edema, says everyone's been getting it with this heat, said mine does not seem too bad at all, just drink as much water as possible and put them up when I can.

I also think I might go with him as the Mohel. I saw the man doc that is also a Mohel yesterday and I like him. He's nice and funny, he's been a doc longer than I have been alive and he's a dad and religious as well. So I talked with Rob and convinced him of the fact that he does the procedure the same exact way he wwould in the hospital - same tools, same anesthesia, etc. except he adds the ceremony my parents and I really want to have. He seems much more fine with it. (He wanted it done in hospital, I want the Brit Milah). So I think we will go with him. He is also fine with it beign aroudn the high holidays, he just will not drive on them, so since he can't walk there, we'd liekly have it the day after a Yom Tov and he says that would still be fine, religiously and health-wise. I think my dad will be happpy with him too.

Anyway, next appt is 8/2 I still have my u/s scheduled for Monday. And I have official "orders" to try not to worry so much! LOL

ROs who nursed their baby(ies) - a quick ish question... when you nurse, what allergy meds are safe to take? Is there some kind of guidelines I can find all in one place somehwere with a list of what to avoid?

TIA! :)

[MichelleRenee]

OK, I need a quick clarification here since everyone seems to have different answers...

I know the 3rd trimester starts at 27 weeks. Does that mean the first day of the 27th week (as in 26w1d) or does that mean on the day you hit 27 weeks?

[Ericka_Jarett]

MichelleRenee - my doctor considers the third at the start of the 27th week, going off my due date.

[Rippy1010]

Bubelah ~ I meant to ask you something in regards to this:
I called my OB today to see if I could travel to Vegas for business around 35 weeks and I found out that I have a "leash" that starts on Sunday when I hit 30 weeks. She recommends no more than 1hr away from the hospital at any time.
Is this "leash" simply due to a condition that you have yourself, or is that the norm? Just wondering since I planned on a weekend (by car) trip at the 32-week mark. Wondering if I should quick call my doc about the trip now ... since I already have tickets to the event and all.

[MichelleRenee]

Thanks Ericka. It's so confusing. I have to fill out this form for my insurance and it asks for the date I start the third trimester. I always just figured that once I was well into it (like 28 weeks) I could say I'm in the 3rd and not worry about exactly when it started. Leave it to an insurance company to complicate matters!

Mommy2ml, congrats on finding a potential mohel!

[Mommy2ml]

Thanks Michellerenee :)

Rippy - I think most of the time you can travel til you're 34-35 weeks all other things being equal... Like after 35 weeks you need a note from the doc to get on a plane, etc. At least that's what they told me back with MAckie a few years ago...

announcements - Anyone considering what kind to do yet? I worry I might make it so complicated again I neve rget them all out... like last time :P Also I was really sucky at thank you notes after she was born. I need a good way to keep my act togetehr and get thank yous and announcements out in a good and timely manner with all the pertinent stuff on them. Any ideas?

[Ericka_Jarett]

My OB allows travel if no complications until about 35 weeks. I know for me the doctor's wouldn't want me traveling far as of about 32 weeks, since I have the pessary. I think I would just call the doc to see what they say about traveling. I would let them know you already have the tickets to the event as well.

announcements - we won't have to send many, but hubby will create them anyway. He has already been thinking about a design he wants to do. Christmas this year will be baby pics to family.

[TaterBaby]

announcements: I had planned to make my own with some cute scrapbook paper, but last night in Target I saw the cutest announcement sets. The box was $19.99 for 50 and they have everything done for you. You just print the text on the computer and insert a photo and you're done. I'm all for easy and all the designs were VERY cute. I think I will be going that route.

[Rippy1010]

Wow! You guys were quick on the travel responses!!! Thanks! :D

[Pamela]

Announcements, we're going to do photo announcements, most likely from inababycarriage.com. There are a few on there I'm deciding between. I guess we'll decided when we have some pictures. I am so so excited to do announcements!!

[Bubeleh]

Rippy The girls have already done a great job at answering the question, but I'll explain a little more. I have had a condition free pregnancy, I think my Dr always tries to err on the side of precaution. Its nothing I'm required to do, its just her suggestion. I'm sure your trip at 32 weeks is fine, just call your OB to see how they feel. Airlines will let you fly at that point, so there should be no problem.

Announcements I'm debating on doing the store made ones (i.e. Target) or ordering from a designer/printer. Like everything else I'll probably wait until the last second to decide.

Emotions I've actually turned into a more mellow person since being pg. Not sure if it will happen but I am still waiting for something to be different to really feel pg. Besides the constant soccer game I have in my belly. Even though I've "popped" I still do not look very pg at all. I really thought I was going to have symtoms, be emotional, get huge, and have all the other side effects I've seen all my friends have when they are pg. I guess I should count myself lucky that life feels pretty normal! Hopefully that doesn't make the shock of parenthood that much more of an impact :eek:

I better get to work, have a great day ladies!

[Quartercentury]

Hi ladies! I am sure lots has been going on around here, but I've missed it all because we were in Greece! :D A very nice beachy vacation before the baby arrives.

My copy of What to Expect When You're Expecting says the third trimester/seventh month begins at 28 weeks...

We are probably going to do photo postcard announcements. But I am going to make my sister design them. She's (hopefully) going to be our birth photographer, and will hopefully have the time to make announcements because she won't be recovering from giving birth or up in the middle of the night with a baby!

[She-Ra]

Maxicat: That is so nice of your mom to say that. :rolleyes: I really don't regret anything I registered for, except the "small" bottles (I used Avent) were a waste & I wish I had just the larger size instead. By the time I went back to work & used bottles for my milk, he needed the larger size.

Mommy2ml: I used this site a lot when I BF. http://kellymom.com/health/meds/cold-remedy.html

Rippy: I flew at 34 weeks with DS & my Dr. wrote me a note just in case the airline said something.

Announcements: I will most likey use Inababycarriage.com Amber is a friend. Since this kiddo doesn't get a shower, and DS got 2, I want to do a super-nice announcement.

I've been OK. Starting to get some swelling, and upperback pain. I carried DS up the stairs the other day (32 lbs) & was embarrasingly huffing & puffing. Playing with him on the floor is fine as long as I have an extra 5 minute to get back up!

[Mommy2ml]

She-ra thanks :)
I know I can;t really carry DD around anymore.. I just make her walk. She had issues with it at first, but now seems to do fine with that when I tell her I can't carry her... most of the time LOL

[jeant]

Rippy My doc wrote me a note saying I can travel up to 36 weeks. I got it for my plane trip next week (only 27 weeks, but just in case the airline wants to know how far along I am).

Question about the detergent. I know you are supposed to use the special detergent, but why exactly? I mean, I know it's about sensitive skin, but do *all* babies have that problem? What exactly happens if you wash stuff in regular detergent and put it on a baby?