February 2007 Mommies ~ The Second Trimester!!!!

[kathywathy]

Dr. appointment today - I don't even know what these are for anymore. It doesn't seem like they do anything since it's so short. I guess I should/could ask questions, but I can never think of anything.

The only problem right now is that my thryoid is out of whack. It's really low. So I know they're checking blood for that.

I think the Dr. is surprised I don't have more questions.

photo from 16 weeks....
http://static.flickr.com/78/227886060_d00337265c_m.jpg
Is the photo coming through?

oh yeah - Count me in for the baby shower.

[PrincessCJ81]

The photo looks good!

[phillytiger]

Hi all! Another busy week on this end :eek:

Lilhimley - I'm so sorry for your loss {{{HUGS!!!}}}

It's so fun to catch up on how you're all doing - all is going well here. Still sensitive to nasty smells, but never sick otherwise. I think I felt the baby move a week or so ago, but I'm not 100%, and this past week I haven't sat still long enough to feel anything!

Since we have our big u/s Monday, I REALLY need to get my 17 wk belly shot up and take another one tonight (we missed last Sunday for my 19 week). Hopefully I'll get them posted tonight - see if any predictions change ;)

I don't know about any of the rest of you, but I just keep getting more and more excited about all of this!!! I'm sure some of it is just because I feel better, so am up to being excited :) And DH and I are beside ourselves we're so excited for Monday's u/s!!!

I need to go through the belly shots & make my predictions - I know there are a few u/s's tomorrow & Monday, so hopefully I can do it tonight. CONGRATS to all of you who've found out - it's so exciting!

OK - gotta get back to work :rolleyes:

Oh, and I'm in for the shower

[bombera77]

As for movement- I REALLY felt the baby on Labor day, so I was almost 19 weeks. I had felt it before, but not like I did that Monday- I think I told you guys, that even my husband could feel this one. Since then, I feel it all the time. At least a couple of times a day and sometime I can feel it moving all over for an hour or more! There have been two or three more times that you could feel it from the outside and one of my co-workers even felt the baby move! So, for those of you at 16 weeks or so, take heart- it will happen soon!

It is hard to believe that I am 1/2 way through my pregnancy already. I know the first half went fast because I didn't know for the first month, but I think the second half will go even faster because I feel great and the baby is moving and I am showing and all that exciting stuff.

Mrs. Hill- crazy dream! I did hear that 1 in 2000 babies are born with a tooth! wouldn't that be wild?

KathyWathy- Nice Belly shot! I hope they figure your thyroid thing out. It seems that USAwife and Elenna would be good resources on that for you.

Elenna- Happy Anniversary! Sorry I am so late...

Oh, my dallas ladies- are any of you going with your dh's to the baby safety seminar this weekend. We got some postcard in the mail and I talked dh into going. I think we are going Saturday morning at 10...

[PrincessCJ81]

[B]
Oh, my dallas ladies- are any of you going with your dh's to the baby safety seminar this weekend. We got some postcard in the mail and I talked dh into going. I think we are going Saturday morning at 10...



I didn't hear anything about it. Can you share the details?

[Elenna]

fsb: I think that muscle twitch feeling is the baby. Congrats!

movement: Just in the past week I've started to feel the baby move everyday. Sometimes the baby will be moving almost non-stop for an hour or two. I have to say it is so hard to concentrate in class when the baby is just being so active.

kathywathy: Several of us here have thyroid issues. Did your doctor tell you if you're hyper or hypo?

phillytiger: Oh, yeah, definitely getting more excited here about all this. I'm also getting more nervous about actually being able to care for a baby. (I guess that aspect is finally hitting me.)

bombera: Thanks! It seems like not that long ago 20 weeks was a long time away.

[ladybug777]

Movement: I started feeling little flutter like movements on and off at 14w. The last week I haven't really felt much and then today...BOOM. At first I though I was having BH again, because it felt like the side of my uterus was moving/twiching. Then I figured out that I "think" it was the baby moving around or tumbling. Definitly took me by surprise and made me stop in my tracks for a sec. Still takes some getting used to. :D

Thyroid: I just came back from my endo appt. He dropped my dose of medication and said that he wants to watch me super close during this pg, considering all we went through to get here. I thought that was kinda sweet. So from here on out, blood work every 4-6 weeks. He thinks I may even wind up going off my medication altogether while pg.

Elenna: You're right, it is hard to concentrate when the baby is moving. It's almost like someone tickling you while you're trying to listen in class.

Bombera: Ewww. How weird would that be if our babies were born w/ teeth. Kinda creeps me out.

The BIG u/s is scheduled for monday 9/18

[February2007Mommies]

Updated to here.

[usafwife]

I can't believe that I'm almost halfway through this pregnancy. Time is certainly flying by with this one. It didn't seem to do that when I was pregnant with DD. I'm still experiencing m/s some days...so I have good days and I have bad days. I just never know what kind of day I'm going to have until I'm up for a while. My carpal tunnel is really getting more severe. It was bad enough before this pregnancy but things have definitely gotten worse. I hate to think it could get even worse. I'm wearing my wrist splints almost all the time now.

Belly Shot from today, 19 wks
(picture removed)

Thyroid Issues ~ Wow, I didn't realize there were so many of us dealing with this problem in this thread. I get checked about 4 to 6 wks so I'll probably be looking at getting retested at my next appt. My dose is very likely to have to be increased as my pregnancy progresses.

kathywathy ~ Is it low in terms of thyroid levels? If the level is low then you're hyperthyroid (meaning your thyroid is producing too much thyroid hormone) if the levels are high, then you're hypothyroid (meaning that your thyroid isn't producing enough thyroid hormone). Confused yet? Feel free to ask away. I've been dealing with thyroid issues for over a year now. Plus have two family members who have thyroid issues.

[stars]

usafwife and ladybug777: Thyroid I also didn't realize how many of us have issues. I was diagnosed with hypothyroid at 7 weeks and have been on 75 mcg. of Synthroid. I think I actually have had thyroid issues since having my DS 2 years ago and didn't even know it. My RE is actually doing a case study now on this very topic, the nurse told me she couldn't believe how many women they have diagnosed with underactive thyroids in early pregnancy, so he now tests everyone.

usafwife I read your post over in the "high-risk" thread. Interesting on how being hypo. can bring on problems later in pregnancy. My RE nor my OBGYN did not mention any of this to me?!?!?!

Level II at RE (9/19) and OB visit (9/26)

[dpangel33]

Oh, my dallas ladies- are any of you going with your dh's to the baby safety seminar this weekend. We got some postcard in the mail and I talked dh into going. I think we are going Saturday morning at 10...

I'm interested in the details as well!!!

[bombera77]

dpangel and PrincessCJ81,
I just pm'd you both about the seminar this weekend!

[rancherswife]

elenna: Good luck today at your ultrasound!!! Come give us the full report as soon as possible. :)

[rancherswife]

E'sprincess: Good luck at your u/s too!!! :)

[Elenna]

Thanks Rancherswife.

My appointment went well though we didn't get in until 40min after the appt time. According to the ultrasound tech they were running behind this morning due to uncooperative babies. I didn't have to have a full bladder, though I went in with one just in case. The goop they put on my belly was nice and warm. And the ultrasound tech explained everything she was doing.

My baby sure was being uncooperative.:o The tech kept having to jiggle my belly to get the baby to move a certain way and the baby wouldn't stop moving when she'd want it to stay still. The baby was being very active the whole time. It was even doing a bunch of high kicks for a while. The tech told me I'd better start eating my wheaties in order to keep up with this active baby.:) She also told me my placenta is anterior.

The baby is measuring right on for 20 weeks and seems healthy according to the ultrasound tech. We have an appt with our OB next Wednesday to go over the ultrasound.

We found out the gender. It was quite obvious to me (DH had to stare at the screen a while to see it). We're having a BOY! Add me to team blue.

I'm completely in awe and have been fighting tears (emotional tears) ever since the ultrasound. It feels really, really weird and much more real now to have seen the baby moving, waving, and gulping fluids and to know our baby is a boy. And it is also really good to know the baby is ok.

E'sprincess: I hope your appt went well today!

[rancherswife]

elenna: Congrats on your baby boy!!! Little boys are SO much fun, full of it, but LOTS of fun.

My theory continues to prove right so far....I'm still sayin' it's a boy year! :)

Any names picked out yet?

[boilermaker]

Yeah Elenna!!!!!! Congrats. I'm sitting here tearing up a little at what you must be feeling after seeing him this morning. How exciting!!

E's Princess, hope your appt goes super duper as well.

Nothing new from me...except we leave on vacation tomorrow!!! So I won't be around for guesses :( I hope everyone with u/s sees exactly what they do or don't want to see!!

[stars]

Elenna Congrats on your boy! I remember when I found out with my DS, I was crying on the table during the ultrasound like I had just given birth. Boys are SOOOOOOOOO special and this is truly a very exciting time.

[rancherswife]

usaf: I've gotta change my guess on you. I just saw your 19 week belly shot and you're pretty high, I'm saying another girl!

[aloha]

I'm back from the conference and I'll be catching up more later. Just wanted to say CONGRATULATIONS to Elenna on joining the BOY group. It is quite amazing to see the baby on the U/S especially when it's the first time :D.

[Janey]

Elenna - Congratulations on your BOY!! So exciting! Your U/S appointment sounds like it went just awesome, even though the little guy was not too cooperative. ;)


I think I might've felt the baby move last night. I was laying on my side on the couch watching TV, and I felt a "rolling" sensation followed by a quick, definite movement... and then it quit. Nothing since then, though, and I was having bowel issues :o yesterday, so I'm not quite convinced it actually was the baby.

[PrincessCJ81]

Elenna- YEAH FOR ANTOHER BOY!!!!!
I know exactly how you are feeling right now, I was holding back emotional tears after my U/S and I've been holding them back ever since. I talk to my little guy all the time and I am overwhelmed with emotions when I think about the mother-son bond. The excitement really kicked in after the U/S and I couldn't stop smiling all day!!

Baby Cole was kicking last night, for sure. I could actually feel it through my belly. DH had to go to a conference so I was all alone and kinda lonely and then I felt these little "umphs" in my stomach. As if my baby were trying to say, Momma you aren't alone! It put me on the virge of tears, of course thanks to my hormones I tend to stay that way all of the time!!!

E's- Good Luck today!

Boiler-Enjoy your vacation!

Everyone- Have a great weekend!

[phillytiger]

Elenna - congrats on finding out you're having a BOY!!!

Nothing exciting here...just counting down until our ultrasound on Monday :) Nothing major planned for the weekend...hopefully this rain stops!!!

[jenjen0713]

Elenna - Congrats on your BOY!!! So glad that he cooperated enough for you to see the goods!

[bombera77]

Elenna! Congrats on your Boy! That is too exciting. I think seeing the baby must have been so much fun! The last time we saw them they were just peanuts, now they look like real people! Oh, I am so jealous, I can't wait for mine!

PhillyTiger- Good luck on Monday. I think you are having a Girl!

[usafwife]

Elenna ~ Congrats on your little boy! This thread is turning into a boy magnet.

I think there are a few of us who are scheduled to find out this coming week. Good luck to all of us.

[bombera77]

Just dropping back by to post my 20 week belly shot.

http://static.flickr.com/80/244124287_f559204235_m.jpg

My dog didn't want to feel left out this morning while we were taking pictures, so he wanted to show you all his belly shot too...

http://static.flickr.com/89/244124290_fa3a9b4d5b_m.jpg

Okay, in addition to my guess of GIRL for PhillyTiger, I also want to guess:
Ladybug777- You are team green like me, so we have a while to wait- You will have to show us a belly shot as we get closer!
Fashionista- I say BOY, although I know you aren't finding out either, so I reserve the right to change my guess as we get closer!
USAWife- GIRL for you

Good luck on all of your appts. next week!

[rancherswife]

bombera: Cute belly, both you and the dog! ;) I say girl for you. When do you find out? Or are you not finding out?

[ladybug777]

Stars: It is unusual how many of us are dealing w/ thyroid issues on this thread. I wonder how many pg women go around undiagnosed? Scary! How are you feeling so far on the Synthroid? That's the same medication I take. I'm now down to 25mcg and my endo thinks he may wind up taking me off it completely during this pg.

Bombera: Yeah for team green!!:D I have a belly shot, but can't get it upload from Shutterfly. What site do you use to host your pics?

Elenna: Congrats on your boy!!!

[E'sprincess]

Ok so after a long, exciting/exhausting day

I'm so sorry ladies... I have been without internet all day.. we
just walked in the door..and my feet are killing me...


So we went to the doc's today... and we did the ultrasound...
and.....
baby was not being very cooperative....stubborn is more like it.



BUT





LIKE MOTHER LIKE DAUGHTER :) LOL




:D :D IT'S A GIRL.......:D :D

Hugs.
Jen

I will go back and read everything that has happened today... but I have to do it tomorrow cause I'm falling alseep already...
But I did see.. Congrats to Elenna... That's great.... :D

[Elenna]

Congratulations E'sprincess on a girl! Yeah, we need more girls.:)

ladybug: I think most of use use either photobucket.com or flickr.com. Shutterfly doesn't allow linking to pictures anymore.

thyroid: One thing that I read when I was researching thyroid problems in pregnancy was that there isn't an agreement on whether pregnant women need to have their thyroid levels checked. The reasoning is that the risks to the babies of mother's with thyroid problems are small. I totally disagree with that. Plus, why would my OB be so concerned about my levels if it weren't an issue?

[February2007Mommies]

Updated to here.

Mommy ID update request sent.

[usafwife]

thyroid: One thing that I read when I was researching thyroid problems in pregnancy was that there isn't an agreement on whether pregnant women need to have their thyroid levels checked. The reasoning is that the risks to the babies of mother's with thyroid problems are small. I totally disagree with that. Plus, why would my OB be so concerned about my levels if it weren't an issue?

Elenna ~ I have heard that they aren't sure whether or not to make thyroid testing part of the standard blood work panel at your first visit. There are problems that I've found while researching that aren't good for the baby if the mother's thyroid is not working properly (it can cause IUGR, pre-clampsia, mental retardation, and the list goes on). I was told that knowing about my thyroid problem in the months following my DD's birth that I would most likely be considered high risk with any future pregnancies.

E'sprincess ~ Congratulations on your little girl!! They are so much fun!

ladybug ~ My dose is considerably higher than yours. My OB tells me that I won't be coming off my dosage (it will very likely be increased as my pregnancy progresses) anytime in the near future. My thyroid was pretty messed up following DD's birth and that's what has caused all of my problems. So ladies, if you start to have problems (and feel free to PM if you'd like) following the birth (and in the months that follow) of the babies have them check your thryoid. You can use photobucket or flickr. And I saw another one mentioned the other day, imagestation or something like that.

[rancherswife]

16w 4d

e'sprincess: Congrats on your baby girl!

[ladybug777]

One thing that I read when I was researching thyroid problems in pregnancy was that there isn't an agreement on whether pregnant women need to have their thyroid levels checked. The reasoning is that the risks to the babies of mother's with thyroid problems are small. I totally disagree with that. Plus, why would my OB be so concerned about my levels if it weren't an issue?

I can't belive there are actually medical professionals out there who think this. For all the reasons that Usawife listed, thyroid problems during pg can be serious for our babies.

Usawife: Being that I was on a dose of 37.5mcg before I got pg, if my labs keep coming back the way they do, there's not much more room to decrease my dose. I'm already down to 25mcg. WAY before I got pg, my endo told me most pg women wind up needing about half their regular dose when pg. Like you said though, your situation is a little different and it sounds like they're still trying to stabalize your levels. How are you feeling? I remember when I first went on Synthroid and they were playing w/ my dosage, I felt like CRAP.

[bombera77]

Yeah E'sPrincess on your baby girl! This is all so exciting.

On the radio this morning they played someone reading Erma Bombeck's "If I had my life to live over" and there is a line that says Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.

I heard that and I just totally broke down. I have realized in these last two weeks of really feeling my baby move how much I LOVE being pregnant. It is such a wonderful experience. I know that for me it has been a lot easier than some of you who are or were dealing with m/s, thyroid problems and any other complications, so that is probably a lot easier for me to say, but really, I love this and I never want to forget how much I love growing my baby!

This is the only time in his/her life that I get to have him/her all to myself. No one esle can hold her, no one else can feed him, just me! I can be completely selfish and no one can fault me for it! Yea! What fun! We are so lucky ladies!

Okay enough sappy for today! :)

Have a wonderful week everyone. And again, good luck to all those Ultra Sound mommies this week!

Ladybug- It looks like your question has been answered, but I use Flickr- it is easy to upload. I had some questions figuring out how to get the URL at first, but I think I got help right there on the site. You can pm me though if you need anything!

[jenjen0713]

E'sprincess - Congrats on your girl!

[stars]

E'sprincess Yippee for another girl in the thread, we are falling behind!

threadmistress Today is my 40th Birthday, what better way to spend this day then being pregnant :) can you please change my birthdate on my Mommie ID

This is the last birthday ... HA!

[aloha]

Happy Happy Birthday STARS!

Congrats on your girl E'sprincess :)

We made quite a bit of progress in getting our kitchen demolished and ready for our remodel this weekend. Hope everyone has a good Monday.

[phillytiger]

E'sprincess - CONGRATS on your baby GIRL!!!

I'm am SO excited to see my peanut this afternoon, I can't stand it :-)

bombera - I love that quote - you're making me cry!

Stars - HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

All's well here, just busy until I cut out for my u/s.

[Elenna]

Stars: Happy Birthday!

Phillytiger and ladybug: I hope you have great ultrasounds today.

bombera: I'm with you on loving being pregnant.

thyroid: I wonder if those doctors who disagree with testing thyroid levels in pregnant women are just those types of doctors that are resistant to change.

[PrincessCJ81]

Stars- Happy Birthday!
E's Princess- Congrats on your little girl!!!
Phily- Good Luck today!
Bombera- What kind of dog do you have? She looks very simialr to my Bailey!

[babae07]

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

stars - Happy Birthday!
ladybug and phillytiger - Good luck on your ultrasounds today!

I had an appointment last Friday and got to hear the hb again. It took my ob a while to find it because the baby wouldn't hold still. We could hear the baby flipping around so much she had to chase the hb. Just great, I already have hyper child! I was feeling the baby move all weekend. At least I'm pretty sure it was the baby.

[phillytiger]

Oh - I forgot to mention, I had some major kicks from the baby yesterday - SO cool!!! :)

[bombera77]

Happy Birthday Stars!

[Spellbound]

Hi everyone. Wednesday night my water broke. It is with great sadness that I must post that I had to lose the baby on Thursday (16 weeks). In my prior pregnancy our DS was born 2 months early due to a premature rupture of the sac, which is leading us to believe that I may have an incompetent cervix. We are hopeful that we now have a clue about what caused me to rupture prematurely twice now. I am at home right now recovering and will see a perinatologist in a few months once my body heals.

I wish everyone here lots of love and luck. I am on LJ and keep up with a lot of moms over there. Feel free to drop by if you'd like to continue keeping in touch. I look forward to seeing your wonderful lives grow with beauitful babies in tow next year.

All my love,
Jude

[dpangel33]

E'sprincess - Yay, congrats on your little girl!!!

stars - Happy Birthday!!!

phillytiger - Have fun at your appt!!!

Spellbound - Jude, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!!

[bombera77]

Spellbound (Jude)- I am so sorry... I will pray for a speedy recovery for you.

[jenjen0713]

Spellbound - I'm so sorry for your loss! I will keep you and your family in my thoughts. (I'm on LJ as well and friended you...my username is the same over there.)

[usafwife]

ladybug ~ Part of my problem is that I was hyper following DD's birth (with a thyroid so damaged that it was killed) and then I became hypo when that happened. I guess in a way it was sort of good that we found out or it could have caused other problems had I kept taking my hyper meds (though I would have gone for repeat bloodwork soon enough and that would have caught it as well). When I first went on it, I felt like I wasn't taking anything for it. I felt the same way I did following DD's birth. I still feel that way sometimes now (part of the reason I think my dosage might need to be readjusted).

bombera ~ I love being pregnant. I just could do without some of the things that go along with it. I love that I get to be the one to feel the baby move first, get to feel the kicks all day long (it took DH a few wks to be able to feel DD kicking because she would stop every time he would put his hands on my belly at the beginning), and the list goes on. I could do without the added stress of everything else that is going on right now but at the same time we get to have a little miracle in the midst of all of this other stuff. I knew that the thyroid problems would be an issue with future pregnancies so we've had more than a little while to get used to that idea and everything that comes along with it.

Stars ~ Happy Birthday!!

Spellbound ~ Sorry for you loss. It's never easy to lose a baby. {{{HUGS}}}

Kicks ~ Definitely been getting more and more kicks from the little one. And I love them (may not so much in a few months when I get kicked in the bladder, ribs, or other places).

[babae07]

Spellbound - Jude, so sorry for your loss.

[Janey]

Spellbound - I'm very sorry to hear of your loss. :( Please take care of yourself. There are a couple of threads in the Family Planning Groups (http://www.constantchatter.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=64) section for ladies who have suffered loss; if you're in need of extra support you may want to check them out.

[aloha]

Spellbound--I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope that the perinatologist is better prepared to support you the next time around with the new information they have gathered. All the best.

[la_bride_2004]

(((Spellbound)) I am so sorry for your loss.

[la_bride_2004]

First I wanted to say congrats to everyone finding out the gender- I am thrilled for all of you :)


I'm hoping on one of my update posts I will have something cheery to say. :( So, I have still been in excrutiating pain. I knew/know it's not normal. My UTI was at a lower level, so my OB was telling me it was probably muscle cramps. (!!!). My entire day usually revolves around pain management, and I have a pretty high pain tolerance, so I knew that couldn't be it.

Last Thursday, the pain was worse than ever (I really don't have words to describe it- it's like an out of body experience), and I passed an extremely large kidney stone! Believe me, I was shocked to see it- they thought the one I had before in the hospital was it. I had to look it up on Google images to make sure that's what it was! Once I passed the stone, I had the first pain-free evening I think I've had the entire pregnancy. However, by 5 a.m. the next morning, I woke up screaming, and DH took me back to the ER. I brought my stone.

Turns out, they can't believe I passed it :( Usually stones that size cause permanent kidney damage if they aren't removed surgically. I have a 50% chance of having more stones- they are a pretty rare complication of pregnancy. Good news (?)- all the docs are telling me what I went through is worse than labor. We shall see.

Also, my kidney infection is back. They wanted to admit me again, but I said no, not until they culture the bacteria and find out what antibiotics to put me on- I'm not spending extra days in the hospital just for observation and pain medication. They gave me a prescription of vicodin in the meantime. I may be back in the hospital tomorrow or so for round II of I.V. antibiotics. I also have a sinus infection, so we shall see how that goes.

I did get to see the baby again- a few times- I am pretty sure he is up for the most photographed award. ;) He looks great, and I am trying with all my might to stay focused on that.

[Janey]

LA Bride - Oh my goodness gracious! That sounds horrendous. I hope things start looking up for you. I'll keep my fingers crossed that you end up on the happy side of the Kidney Stone Coin Toss.


In other news . . . I changed my Username. With the impending bambino, MrsHill seemed a little... lacking somehow. I didn't want to be "Babyname's mommy" because I thought that if/when #2 comes, I'd have to change it again so I decided to go with something non-dependant on my relationship to other people. I've been using Janey since forever, so I just decided to keep going with that. So I guess the username change is another update for the Mommy IDs. :)

[rancherswife]

16w 5d

No word from philly huh? I wanna know! ;)

Busy day, even busier tomorrow, Landon's got pics. tomorrow, that's always exhausting! ;) Still don't know what he's gonna wear, gotta go to the mall before his 12:30 appt.! Nothing like waiting until the last minute.

Started feeling the baby move a little more over the weekend. Still pretty sparatic though. I'll be happy when I can feel it all the time. It never annoyed me w/ Landon, even at 40+ (yes, I said +);) weeks w/ Landon. It's always a great little reminder all is well.

Ok...time to get Landon down for the night.

[ladybug777]

We had our u/s yesterday and it was amazing. The baby looks great! The tech estimated his/her weight at 8oz. :D That's like a little steak! Baby's legs are long (the actual bones themselves) and she's estimating that this will be a long baby. DH was 21 inches at birth, so that's not surprising. Also met w/ the maternal-fetal medicine specialist and discussed my thyroid issues, etc. We pretty much decided to let my endo handle that and I'll just see them again for another u/s at 32 weeks. We declined to find out the sex, so we're sticking with that now. This baby will be a suprise!

Stars: Happy belated b-day!

Elena: I was talking to the maternal-fetal medicine specialist about the issue of testing all pg women for thyroid probs. He was telling me that until 4 years ago, his practice didn't even do that for everyone. I guess an article came out in Newsweek about 4 years ago, linking thyroid probs w/ lower IQ scores and mental retardation. After that, every patient that came to see him, came w/ that article in hand, demanding that their thyroid be checked. He said that article pretty much changed him practice in that regard. I found that pretty interesting.
********************************
Spellbound: I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. I hope you and your family are holding up. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.

[bombera77]

Where is PhillyTiger! I know she went yesterday and I just have to know!!! She is keeping us in suspense- that is just not fair!

Fashionista, I know you have an U/S today too, so good luck seeing your little one and GO TEAM GREEN!

LaBride- I am so sorry for all that you are going through. I guess the positive spin is you get to see your little one a lot! I have heard the same about kidney stones being the same as, or worse than labor. Let's hope that is the case for you. You shouldn't have to go through all of this. I hope you don't have any complications from passing that monster stone. How big are we talking? (sorry, my morbid curiosity is taking over) aren't they usually the size of a grain of sand? I am guessing yours is MUCH bigger!

PrincessCJ- My monster dog is a mut, through and through! We think he is part boxer and possibly part ridgeback, but who knows. Mostly he is 100% baby! At 6 years old and 80 lbs, he is mamma's lap dog. People are concerned when he first climbs up in my lap, but he loves it so, how can I resist him...

LadyBug- I am glad your U/S went well yesterday. I loved your comment about the baby being a small steak! That cracked me up! You are definitely pregnant and hungry!

Nothing new to report here- have a great day everybody!

[ladybug777]

I loved your comment about the baby being a small steak! That cracked me up! You are definitely pregnant and hungry!

LOL! I hadn't even thought of that. I guess it's obvious that food is at the forefront of my mind. I'm off to eat again.... :D

[PrincessCJ81]

Spellbound- I am so sorry for your loss. I hope the Dr. is able to learn from this so he/she can prevent it from happening again in the future.

LABride- Wow, you are doing great at staying so strong. I am such a big baby I don't think I could've handle all the pain.

Philly- I am so anxious to know what's going on????

Team Green- Did any of you kinda get a glimpse and think you know what gender it might be? I could tell my monkey was a boy as soon as he turned, so just curious if anyone saw anything.

Bombera- I sware our dogs are twins. Mine is only 50 pounds, but same combo (we think) boxer and ridgeback. There are a few pics of her in my journal (pg.8), you should check them out, she's adorable (if I do say so myself).

[PrincessCJ81]

Did someone say steak? YUM!

[stars]

Spellbound I am so very sorry for your loss, you are in my thoughts.

Thanks to everyone for the b-day wishes. The day was uneventful, I told my DH he can make it up to me next year ... a trip to Cabo perhaps ;) sitting on the beach drinking margaritas ... YUM!

Off to my Level II sonogram, can't wait to see my lil pumpkin.

Hi to all.

[fashionista]

Elenna: I'm not sure whether if my husband increases the likely chance of the baby getting thalessemia. If I were a carrier though I definitely would pass it onto the baby. Also, I didn't find out until I was pregnant that my mom had a mild case for all 6 of her pregnancies.

E'sprincess - CONGRATS on your baby GIRL!!!!!!!

bombera - Thank you for the well wishes for my u/s today. I'm super excited to see the little one. We have a blank VHS so that we can get footage of the u/s. :)

Stars - HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY!!!

Spellbound - I am very sorry for your loss. I will keep you and your family in my prayers

ladybug: Glad to hear your u/s went well. :)

LaBride- I'm sorry you have to go through so much pain. My DH had a kidneystone and was in alot of pain. I hope you get welll soon!

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

Here are some belly shots I haven't been able to post:

17 weeks
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v604/dave_jacqueline/17_wk.jpg
18 weeks
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v604/dave_jacqueline/18_w.jpg

Note: I'm sorry that the pics are so big. Also, please excuse my stretchmarks!


I'm off to my big u/s. I'm super excited and can't wait to see little one. :D

I'll be back later. Take care everyone! :)

[Daniel's Kitty]

My u/s and next appt is Oct 17th

I had a pretty good appt yesterday. I am down to 158 pounds. I think it is sad that I am having a harder time gaining this time. The baby is doing great though so they aren't worried about my weight. My wedding ring is to big now though. Dh seems excited about the u/s. My son was an angel for the appt, he sat on the floor, ate crackers, and played.

Spellbound-so sorry I hope they can figure out why it happened.

[Spellbound]

Thank you to everyone who wrote kind words. They mean a LOT to me. My husband called the OB today to cancel what would have been my scheduled appointment this Friday as well as the prenatal clinic where my 20wk ultrasound would have been done next month.

If what we suspect is going on with my cervix is true, we are tremendously lucky that our DS made is as far as he did while I was pregnant with him. And thankfully, he is in absolute perfect health! Thank you again to everyone, and I will definitely check out the loss threads you pointed out, Janey. And JenJen0713, I added you back.

Here is to a wonderful remainder of the 2nd trimester to you all, and an even BETTER 3rd! I'll be looking forward to my perinatology visit until then and enjoying every day with my 2 men here at home.

[phillytiger]

I'm here, I'm here :) Sorry for the delay ladies...my little peanut was MORE than cooperative, as the Dr. who came in to check the u/s said, "this, you can be the farm on"

So, without further ado...

IT'S A BOY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We're so excited, and afterward, we went to BRU to buy a couple blue outfits :) He is right on schedule, was flipping & squirming all over the place - no wonder I'm feeling so much kicking :D

So the main reason I didn't post yesterday was that I was very emotionally torn - obviously I'm thrilled that the baby is totally healthy, and was squirming all over the place. As I've told you guys before, my mom is an alcoholic & has a lot of issues that are at the root of it, one of them being having never dealt with giving birth to my older sister, who is severely mentally retarded due to complications at birth. So in the midst of all this excitement, my mom decided she wasn't sure she could go through with a baby shower until after the baby is born...which wouldn't be a big deal except we've been planning it for 2 months. So I was a little emotionally overwhelmed last night :rolleyes: BUT, I talked to my dad this morning, and we're a go - she's decided that she really wants to do this & finally got the invites ordered...whew.

Labride - wow! feel better!!!

spellbound - I'm so sorry for your loss {{{HUGS!!!}}}

[bombera77]

PhillyTiger- Congrats on your Boy! You really were keeping us all in suspense, but I am so glad that everything looks well. I am also glad that things seem to have resolved with your mother a bit. I hope she continues to be positive for you!

Those boys are really stacking up...

[dpangel33]

Philly - Congrats on the BOY!!!!

[PrincessCJ81]

3/3- I'm a good guesser!! Philly- I am so excited to add another boy to the group!!! Sorry about the issues with your mom and I am so glad they are getting worked out! It sounds like you have a pretty good dad! Wasn't the U/S the most exciting thing!! I loved seeing my monkey wiggle everywhere!

I can't wait to find out for the rest of you!!! POOHIE on team green for making us wait so long (J/K) I'm just so impatient I can barely stand waiting for other people's suprises...that's pretty pathetic, I know!

Have a good night everyone!

[February2007Mommies]

Updated to here.

[rancherswife]

17w

philly: Congrats on your baby boy!!! Also, I'm so sorry about the emotional rollercoaster w/ your mom. I'm glad everything is working out for you. :)

I've gotta go back and see what my guesses were to see where I'm at, I know I was right w/ Elenna, but I can't remember the rest.

I've gotta get new batteries for my camera, and FINALLY do belly shots, I've been saying that for a week.

Cant' wait to hear how stars u/s went!!! This is so exciting!!!

[fashionista]

PhillyTiger: CONGRATS on your baby boy!!!!

I'm glad it worked out with you and your mom. I can relate to having conflicts with mom. My mom is VERY difficult to deal with. (See my post below)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My big u/s went well. I'll scan some pics to share when I get the chance. My appt was scheduled for 1PM so that I would have the opportunity to fill my bladder with fluids beforehand. Unfortunately, I drank a large lemonade from Hot Dog on a Stick and a pint of water and had to pee REALLY bad right when I got there. I was worried that I needed more water so I had my DH go for a run to the corner store to pick some up. He took long and I was getting worried that he wouldn't make it in time. The sonogram techinician called out my name and my husband wasn't back. Luckily, he arrived in time right before I was ushered into the room WHEW! So, right before we had the u/s the technician asked us whether we wanted to know the gender of the baby. We had a VERY VERY weak moment and ALMOST wanted to know but, held back. I think we were caught in the moment and just wanted to know. We're glad we didn't find out. As she prepped me for the u/s, she asked me to pull my pants down and I was embarressed because I borrowed my husband's boxers. :o I found his boxers to be more comfy than my undies. She thought that was cute. The sonogram technician checked everything and kept saying, "Looks great" or "That's a good looking (foot, leg, arm, etc)" . Soonafter she said the doctor would be in the room. We thought something was wrong but, he was just there to do a double check. I was pleased that they did that. I'm anal like that. hehe

I got my triple screen results from my doctor. Everything looks good. However, my husband's blood test for alpha thalessemia came back questionable. He and I have to go through genetic testing to look further into it. I'm hoping that all goes well. I know that I'm no doctor or medical professional but, it's very hard to understand what really is going on when doctors speak in layman's terms. I try to find answers online only to end up being more worried and confused.

I also have 2 rants....Long story short, my mom didn't really care to help me or support me throughout the wedding. She was negative about the WHOLE wedding. Since then, I've tried to not have her involved with my pregnancy because, my thought is that she will only be negative, give me a hard time, and stress me out. She has been complaining though from what I eat, wear, and do during my pregnancy. For example, I was making chocolate pudding and questioned why I'm craving such UGLY food. She said that ugly food will result in an ugly baby. That makes no sense whatsoever but, it really urked me. I've been biting my tongue and just letting it pass. Well, I snapped today. She asked if she could borrow my luggage for her vacation and I did but, took my sweet time to give it to her and was snippy. I cried my heart out afterwards. I was so happy and upbeat during my pregnancy. Now I feel sad and depressed. In the past, if someone did me wrong, I'd turn the other cheek and be nice but, lately I feel like I feel like rebelling. Could it be the hormones which is causing me to be so emotional???? People have told me that your emotions affects the baby. I can't help but feel like a bad mother now because, I'm passing on negative vibes to the baby.

The other is that I am still unemployed and tried networking with a few of my old collegues. They were happy to help me and said that there were open positions but, once they found out I was pregnant, they changed their minds to recommend me and said that I would only be discriminated for being pregnant. Mind you these are young, ambitious women who have never been pregnant. All I could think is, "how dare you say such a thing to me!". I was SO insulted. The only good thing which came out of this is that when I met with all of them, all I heard were complaints, office gossip, and how stressed out they are from work. This made me realize that it may be a blessing in disguise. No job is worth stressing over. My belief is that a job is there just to pay the bills.

I'm trying my best to think happy thoughts and stay positive but, its REALLY hard right now.

Sorry this post is so long. It's 5AM and just needed to vent. Thanks so much for listening!

[rancherswife]

17w 1d

fashionista: Glad to hear your u/s went well. That's great! I'm so impressed you and your dh were able to withhold finding out. I would've caved for sure. But then again, that's why we find out ;). Sorry about the trouble w/ your mom, you definately don't need any negativity while pg, and yes, your emotions are on OVERKEEL while pg and it only gets worse the further along you get. I'm sure everything will work out. Hang in there.

Still no word from stars huh? These girls that keep us waiting!!! ;)

Landon's been up since 5 am., not sure why, but I was NOT ready for that this morning! I'll try and catch a nap w/ him during his a.m. nap. :)

[Elenna]

Phillytiger: Congratulations on your boy! I'm glad your mom finally came around on the baby shower.

Spellbound: I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope the doctors can figure it all out. {{HUG}}

ladybug: Congrats on having a good ultrasound.

fashionista: Congrats on having a good ultrasound. I hope your mom shapes up and starts being more supportive. You have a very cute round belly.

la bride: Oh, wow. I hope you don't have anymore stones. So, after experiencing that are you considering a natural birth?;)

[PrincessCJ81]

fashionsita- It's funny you bring this up b/c my older sis and I were discussing our Mom last night and she was saying how it's easy for her to turn the other cheek when our mom does incredibly rude things to her(my sis). However, when my mom does rude things to me, my sis becomes very irritated and vocal. I think you might be experiencing similar defensive emotions. It's okay for your mom to hurt your feelings, b/c you've learned how to deal, but insulting or making rude comments about your baby is a completley different story. I think your maternal nature is kicking in and you want to defend your baby from any hurtful or negative feelings that are coming from your mom. I am a firm believer that it's better out than in and I see nothing wrong with you letting your mom know she hurts your feelings when she makes those kind of comments. But, I know if she's anything like my mom she will turn it around on you and somehow make it your fault. It can be very frusterating. BTW- How is chocolate pudding an ugly food? It's so rich and creamy and yummy....I'd think it would be a pretty food!

[stars]

Sorry guys, I know I'm confusing some of you, but we found out we were having a girl at a remarkable 13 weeks. Yesterday was the Level II and YES it confirmed a definite girl! Saw the money shot clear as day. I had a terrible headache yesterday and drank some Coke before we left, the sonogram tech. was less then pleased (although I didn't tell her what I consumed), she had a hard time getting my little worm to stay still ... HA! Unfortunately did not get my AFP results back so still waiting and stressing about those. Please pray that my numbers come back high so I don't have to do the amnio, I was fortunate to avoid it with my DS.

Congrats to all you ladies that just found out this week.

[E'sprincess]

I’m sorry I have been missing… Things have been really crazy here, thinking names, colors, baby girl stuff.. We’re so excited.

My appt. Eric and I were so excited going to the appt. We were talking on the way, and I said which do you think we’re having.. he finally said a girl.. but that’s because I have been saying it all along. Lol… I have mind power over him.. LOL loves it. Anyways.. we there, and it’s not cooperating.. First laying there with legs together not doing anything, so we went and walked, hopped around and when we came back in she was in the praying kneeling position… Probably holding on for dear life.. lol… so it was really hard to see… but we did… and we know now without a doubt It’s a Girl… Yeah… So afterwards we called everyone, My mom, he’s mom, sisters and my Dad… Everyone was excited.. We’re even thinking we got or name picked out, but that’s not 100% sure. Eric being so cute now… “how’s my girls doing today” stuff like that.. I love it.. :D

USAFwife… You mention something about your carpel tunnel is getting worse… I just called my ob, because my right side hand is going numb. Right now it’s my thumb, but in-between the thumb and finger there’s a nerve there that really sore.. The just suggested me going to my Primary care dr. but I have never seen her before.
That’s so weird that I just called them and here you are talking about it.

Elenna – Congrats again on the little boy.. That’s awesome news to find out he’s a healthy/active little bugger… lol Mine however was uncooperative, but was not too active, just laid there, with her legs closed..lol (Good girl) lol

Stars – Happy late Birthday… Sorry I missed it.. Hope it was the best birthday ever.

Phillytiger – Hope you US goes great and you can see your active baby.. Sorry I’m on page 55 now, so I’m sure we’ll find out the sex here in a minute…LOL….YEAH PHILLY… It’s a Boy… That’s great news.. Sorry about the confusion on the shower, but I’m glad everything is good to go.

Bombera – I LOVE that quote… I was trying to put it in my signature, but it wasn’t working… Thanks for sharing… Have fun on your baby moon.

Spellbound (Jude)– I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. Hopefully now that they have an idea as to why it happened they can prevent it. Good luck to you and your family in the future. My thought and prayers are with you. {{{HUGS}}}

Kicks – I’m sad to say I haven’t felt anything I don’t think… :sad: I would think it will be happening soon though.

Fashionsita – That’s great that you had the will power not to find out.. I completely caved.. lol… I’m sorry your having issues with your mom… Chocolate pudding – ugly food.. LoL that’s just crazyiness..I say, eat what you like… wear what’s comfortable. Ever if it is Boxers.. lol and do as you please this is your baby, not hers. Hope you have a better week.
{{{{Hugs}}}}

Wowwwwwww This was really long.. But I think I caught up on everyone… Have a great Hump day..

Jen

[bombera77]

Fashionista- I am with PrincessCJ, just the mention of chocolate pudding brings a smile to my face- I find very few foods "prettier." Now if you were craving liver and onions that might be a different story... :) Just tell her you have a sweet baby who wants sweet things! I can't imagine how you must feel right now, but don't feel like you are being a bad mother for having negative thoughts. Most importantly, your baby knows you love him/her and that is all that matters! I don't think a few days of angry or hurt feelings are going to make a big impact. You said you have been upbeat and postive until now, we all have our moments!

I am proud of you for not caving in at the Ultrasound. I worry that I might, but I know I am going to to march in there and tell the tech before they even get a chance to ask that we don't want to know, that way I won't feel tempted. I am excited we get to bring a VHS to ours so we can tape it.

Stars- I am glad to hear that your level II went well and that you have a very active little girl! I hope everything comes out well and no amnio is in your future!

E'princess- I think you have me confused, I wish we were going on a babymoon, but it's not me... I bet everytime you see something cute and pink you want to snatch it up! Everytime I go to the store I think I might want to find out because everything is so cute, but then I get my resolve back and know I want to wait. I can't really tell you why I want to, I just do but it's funny that I just HAVE to know what you all are having! Too much fun!

[E'sprincess]

Bombera ~:o Your totally right, I was think Boilermaker... LOL ohwell.. one of those pregnancy things the brain just goes away.. LOL Have a great day anyways.

[Elenna]

I'm back from my OB appt. It went well, though the OB was running late because she had to run over to see a patient in L&D. (Not a delivery thankfully.) Lil' baby must have loved the music in the waiting room because he kept moving the whole time and then stopped when I got called back.

She confirmed everything the u/s tech said about our baby measuring good and being healthy so I'm happy. She gave me an orange drink to drink before my next appt for a blood glucose test. Then they measured my uterus with a measuring tape. It had markings on it that weren't inches or cm. I think it marked in weeks because my uterus matched up right on the 21 mark.

I talked to our OB talked about circumcision. DH and I have decided against circumcising our boy. The OB was fine with it, but still gave us warnings about not circumcising (will look different from other boys, more chance to contract and transmit sexual diseases and yeasts, etc). I had the feeling she prefers boy to be circumcised, but she didn't outright say that.

My next OB appt is Oct. 25.

E'sprincess: I'm with you on picking colors and shopping for baby. Ever since last Friday I want to go out and buy stuff. But, instead, I bought "Baby Bargains" and have been educating myself as to what to buy. Once I'm through the book though watch out stores!
Your ultrasound story is funny. I can just picture seeing a pregnant woman hopping up and down to get the baby to move. My ultrasound tech just kept jiggling my belly (which felt weird) to get the baby to move the way she wanted.

Stars: Congrats on the confirmation that its a girl! It is nice to see the baby active in the ultrasound.

Sorry for you who are having problems with your moms. I don't have a problem with my mom except getting her to shut up long enough for me to tell her anything about myself or the baby. I have the same problem when talking with my sister.

[fashionista]

rancherswife, Elenna, bombera77, PrincessCJ81: Thank you SO much for the well wishes and hugs. I'm feeling much better now. I thought about it and feel that I have to respect my mom and accept her for who she is. Hopefully she comes around. I'm so happy to have found a wonderful support group. You girls ROCK!

Elenna: Thank you for the belly compliment! Very sweet of you!:)

PrincessCJ81, my mom ALWAYS makes it my fault, even if it isn't. I really hate it when she does that.

Oh and regarding chocolate pudding being ugly food, she says this because, it is an old wives tale. I'm hearing all em from her.

stars: I will keep you in my prayers that your AFP numbers are high.

E'sprincess: That's so cute how your DH says, “how’s my girls doing today” . For us, my DH always says, "How is HE?" and I always reply back, "SHE is doing fine." lol

E'sprincess and usafwife: My hands have been going numb as well AND the joints on my hands have been sore too when I wake up. I was thinking the same thing to call my doctor about it.

BTW, are any of you experiening backpain? I have after walking around for an hour. Like when I'm shopping at the mall or at Target, I have to sit down and rest. I'm going to ask my OB/GYN if there is anything I can do or buy a back brace.

Okay, I have to run and eat lunch! HAPPY HUMP DAY! :p

[Aug2002Bride]

My big U/S is for October 11th now...I cant remember if I posted the previous date or not.

[dpangel33]

QOTD - Have you pre-registered at the hospital yet??

I was checking out my hospitals website the other day and they suggested pre-registering and signing up for birth classes in the first trimester :eek: GULP. I had just starting thinking it was about time to do this so I'm glad I looked into it b/c classes are already limited.

[la_bride_2004]

19 weeks

I am really behind on shout outs, so forgive me for serial posting!

Janey I like the new name!

stars belated Happy Birthday!

ladybug Glad all went well with the big U/S! Weird that I am 2 days behind you but I won't get mine for another two weeks- I am impatient!

bombera I hope you don't have any complications from passing that monster stone. How big are we talking? (sorry, my morbid curiosity is taking over) aren't they usually the size of a grain of sand? I am guessing yours is MUCH bigger!


Wow, are they normally really that small? This one is about the size of a raisin. Unfortunately, I may have permanent kidney damage- I will know more next week when I meet with more specialists. Thank you for your good thoughts!

[la_bride_2004]

fashionista and princess Thank you for the good thoughts!

philly congrats on your boy! Yaay!

(((fashionista)) First, glad the u/s came out so well. I can really relate on the Mom stuff- my own is very similar (was a nightmare during the wedding and hasn't been in contact once since finding out about this pregnancy.) Yes, the hormones make it worse! I say avoid her. Hugs also for the job search.

Elenna
So, after experiencing that are you considering a natural birth?


Hah! Kind of funny question. I know I have a pretty high pain tolerance, so I am not afraid of that, but I will most likely have a c-section because of all the bladder/kidney stuff going on- they want to avoid further infection/strain. I am ok with this.

stars Yaaay on the GIRL!! I will send good AFP scores your way.

E's Princess Congrats on the girl!!

[la_bride_2004]

Elenna Glad the appointment went well! I think there are good arguments on both sides of the whole circumcision thing- I think if you have decided your doctor should support that! A g/f sent me "Baby Bargains"- I have to get reading! I haven't bought much either. (I did get some onsies on clearance at Old Navy).

dpangel Wow, first trimester registering! No, I've been too busy being in and out of the hospital to pre-register! I am assuming I'll do it in a few months. I joke with DH that we have no need of the whole hospital tour since we have the layout down!

fashionista I have been getting pretty fierce back pain and hip joint pain. Going to the chiropractor and prenatal yoga has helped some. I feel like I waddle when I walk now though!

[phillytiger]

QOTD - yes, I've preregistered at the hospital (my OB gave me all the info at my first visit) and just last week we signed up for our childbirth class - we're doing the one long day option rather than a bunch of evenings - we were going to have to reschedule some stuff to make it work. So Sat, Nov 4 is our birthing class :)

I'm definitely having some back pain - hoping my prenatal yoga will help!!!

Gotta run tonight - more later!

[aloha]

Funny that we are at 20 weeks on the 20th of Sept.

QOTD:We have not pre-registered at the hospital yet. We are signed up for a weekend long childbirth class in November. We may take additional classes at the hospital depending on how we feel after the weekend.

I've been having back pain on and off as well. I've been exercising on the birthing ball and stretching and that has helped a fair bit.

[PrincessCJ81]

I've preregistered at the hospital and registered for the classes b/c my hospital request you register by 4 months.

Back pain-OMG yeah!!! Right down my sciatic nerve on the right side and then in between my shoulders (from carrying around the huge melons attached to the front of me) It's insane!!!

[rancherswife]

QOTD: We have not pre-registered yet. My OB will give me the paperwork when the time comes. Probably in a month or so. I can't remember when he did it last time.

As for classes, we won't be doing that this time, we did it less than two years ago, so it's still pretty fresh in the memory! ;)

I would totally recommend all the first timers to take the classes, that want to. I would NOT have NOT taken them w/ Landon. BUT, in my opinion, they were worthless in labor, who the hell wants to concentrate on breathing a certain way when your abdomen feels like it's going to tear apart at any moment? (sorry, but it's true!) However, I am glad we did it, for the experience nonetheless. :) Memories!!!lol Dh and I fought every Tuesday night for 6 weeks while taking the classes, he hated going, I secretly did, but INSISTED we didn't miss a class! ;) We both loved the hospital tour though, and honestly you are a more prepared w/ what to expect after taking the classes.

[stars]

who the hell wants to concentrate on breathing a certain way when your abdomen feels like it's going to tear apart at any moment?

rancherswife I could not agree with you more! I ended up going on oxygen because I was hyperventilating from the Lamaze breathing. I agree with you about the class. The biggest thing I got out of it is when to know you are actually "in labor" and when to make that call to your doctor. I also did the breastfeeding class and LOVED it (did not drag DH to that one ;) )

One class I may take this time around is child CPR, my DS SHOVES food in his mouth and we've had some close calls.

[Janey]

E's Princess - Congrats on your girl!!

Phillytiger - Congrats on finding out about your Boy!


I haven't pre-registered with the hospital .. they haven't said anything about it. My hospital does have a metric ton of different classes though. For $200 you're in the "Stork Club" and can take as many as you want for a year. We'll probably do that, but I also probably won't sign up for classes for a couple more weeks. I'm sort of concerned about scheduling the classes though -- they want you to have the classes done 6 weeks before your due date, and the classes are 6 weeks, which means I'd be going to some of these classes basically over the Christmas holidays, which we're going to be gone for part of them... and man who has time for anything extra over the Holidays?? Eh, we'll work it out I suppose. One more thing to think about though, that's for sure!

[MrsSki]

Hey Moms-

Congrats to those that have found out!!! What a bummer to those that have Mom issues. I have a few with my mom as well, but she's my mom, I love her and she's on anti-depressants finally!!

la_bride My dad is prone to kidney stones, so I've seen his episodes pretty much yearly since I was 4. He currently is carrying 11 stones. His are generally the size of a BB and are very prickly. I can't imagine the pain of passing something the size of a raisin. Was your pain the day after passing the stone residual pain (like a muscle ache)? When my dad goes into 'labor' it's the most awful thing ever. All curled up fetal, vomiting and crying. Gads!!

Pre-registering Not done that yet. I can't remember when we did with DD. We did take the 6 week birthing class and it was good. And the breathing techniques - didn't use them. I breathed in a way that worked for me and made me feel better. And kept a cool, wet washcloth close because those private summers I would experience while having contractions were brutal!!

The mad hatter and I went to see DH this weekend. What a nice treat for us. There was an outlet mall across the road from the hotel and boy did we have fun!!! We got DD's fall clothes, a few velour non-gender sleepers from Osh Kosh for the new baby and I got a few little 'treats'. The drive home was kinda long, but uneventful.

[jenjen0713]

BUT, in my opinion, they were worthless in labor, who the hell wants to concentrate on breathing a certain way when your abdomen feels like it's going to tear apart at any moment? (sorry, but it's true!) However, I am glad we did it, for the experience nonetheless. :) Memories!!!lol Dh and I fought every Tuesday night for 6 weeks while taking the classes, he hated going, I secretly did, but INSISTED we didn't miss a class! ;) We both loved the hospital tour though, and honestly you are a more prepared w/ what to expect after taking the classes.


So true, so true, so true. Our class and instructor was totally worthless! It was on Monday nights last fall. DH and the other husbands in the class were p#ssed because they were missing out on Monday Night Football. :rolleyes: We fought every Monday night as well. The hospital tour was the only thing that DH and I really enjoyed. The exercises IMO, were a totally joke and breathing exercises....well, I never used them once.

pre-registration - My doctor recommends doing it a month before delivery.

[ladybug777]

Fashionista: So sorry your having a hard time w/ your mom. My mom and I have gone a few rounds before, so I can relate.

Philly: Congrats on your boy!

Stars: Congrats on your girl!

Elenna: Happy to hear that your appt went well. There are so many different takes on the whole circumsicion debate. Bottom line: If you teach your boy good hygiene techniques, he really isn't at any greater risk for infection. Go with what you and your DH decide you're comfortable with.

QOTD-Back Ache: So far, I haven't had any probs which is suprising considering I have a bad back. A few days of sciatic nerve pain, but nothing unbearable.

QOTD-Preregistering: Not yet. At 20 weeks, I'm susposed to call the hopsital and arrange a tour, sign up for classes, etc. I believe we preregister on the night of the tour.

[E'sprincess]

Fashionista – That’s funny.. Eric used to do the same thing.. I slipped a couple of times and said she… and he would say.. umm he doesn’t like that.. lol… never mess with the momma’s intuition… lol :p

Aug2002bride… Good luck with your appt.

Danea – :eek: GULP… I must go and check this out too…. Thanks for the reminder…

Back Pain… OMlordy… Right down my sciatic nerve on the right side and then because I have scoliosis in my spine (Backwards curvature) I have to have Eric give me back rubs every night and then sleep with a hot water bottle.

Today’s a pretty decent day… but I think my belly got bigger… lol I can hardly see my feet now… LOL.. Other then that, just waiting to start feeling “Baby Girl” move around. Eric and I started talking names…. He’s not convinced he like the spelling of the baby’s name yet… I like it… but you know men… :eek: UGH. So We’re not 100% sure on the name yet.

Ok ladies… I need 100% honest opinion, you won’t offend me… Am I fat… LOL.. no kidding…

Madisyn Rose…. Whatcha think.

[dpangel33]

Pre-registering - Okay now I don't feel so bad for not doing it yet, whew.

Moms - I'm sorry for those of you having mom issues, hopefully it'll get better soon!!

E'sprincess - I love the name Madison, but I'm a bit biased b/c if we have a girl her name will be Madison Riley. And my DH and I have been fighting over spelling as well so I feel your pain. (I want to spell Riley - Rylee, but I was shot down :( )

[Janey]

E'sPrincess - I have a cousin who just named her daughter Madisyn with a Y, and I have to say I'm not a fan. As someone who grew up with a fairly common name with an uncommon spelling, believe me true when I tell ya that it's a complete PITA to spell my name for every single person, every single time I say my name. Instead of being "Madison," she'll be "Madisyn-with-a-Y" (and if Madyson happens to become even somewhat popular, she'll be Madisyn-with-a-Y-instead-of-an-O!) her entire life. Not fun.

I do, however, like the middle name Rose a lot. :)


QOTD-Back Ache: Nothing major here (yet; knock on wood!). My lower back gets a little sore by the end of the day, but stretching and rubs from B help. Also, I got a Snoogle (http://leachco.stores.yahoo.net/snoogle.html) at BRU last week and I looooove it. :D I think it helps align my back while I sleep.

[MrsSki]

E's Princess Like Janey, I was given a very common name with an uncommon spelling. The issues I've had have been ridiculous. I do love the name you've chosen however. BUT, you are the parent's and you will do what you want. In light of my own personal issues, we named DD Madelaine (pronounce Mad-a-lyn not Mad-ee-laine or Mad-a-line) and nobody but MIL spells it right (she's the Elaine part of the mad hatter's name).

QOTD - Back-ache Not so much here. I sleep with three pillows these days and that keeps me from rolling onto my stomach (which for some reason I can still sleep comfortably that way :eek: ). I have this large body pillow, not a snoogle tho, and HATE it. I tried it through different stages of my last pg and would get stuck and couldn't move and then I couldn't jump out of bed quite as easily when to urge to pee or vomit would make an appearance in the wee hours of the morning. Plus it took up WAY to much room in our bed. DH wasn't liking that. Apparently spooning with a pillow wasn't offering him as much satisfaction as spooning with his wife :D .

Have a good day ladies!

[E'sprincess]

Danea - That's funny... I love Rylee... Actually my neice who's 5 picked out the name Ryleigh for the baby.. LOL too funny..

Janey.. Thanks for your input... Eric actually likes Madyson better then Madisyn... I think he's just weird.

Jen.

[rancherswife]

E'sprincess: Darling name, I too am biased, as my cousin has a Madison who is 8 weeks older than Landon and she's a doll. Infact, I am watching her today and watching the two of them play is hysterical. Love the middle name as well. Great name choice. Thanks for asking our oppinion, but honestly go w/ what YOU and DH like, not what everyone else tells you. I like the spelling too. :)

Anyone else out there w/ names picked out????? I love hearing them. :)

Gotta run, it's like having twins w/ me today.

[ladybug777]

Names: I think we've pretty much decided on Sophia (Sophie) or Dean.

E's Princess: Another one here with an unusual spelling for my name. I'm Jazmine instead of Jasmine. People ALWAYS spell my name wrong. Even when I spell it for them. Even when we bought our house- I had to go back and have then redo all of our loan docs/escrow paperwork. Just my $0.02.

[Daniel's Kitty]

girl name- Alexandra Rose
Boy name- Michael Thomas

[bombera77]

OOH! I love hearing everyone's names!

E'princess- I like the name Madison (Madisyn) Rose very much and spellings are always tough. Go with what you can agree on, but keep in mind her name will never be spelled right! If that doesn't bother you, go with it!

Danea and E'sprincess- Two Madisons (however you spell it) would be fun! That is the cool thing about this board, we could all name our kids the same thing and it wouldn't really matter at all!

I too got shot down on the spelling of what we want to name our little girl... I want Zoe Anne (with the two dots over the e in Zoe) but dh says that is too confusing and everyone would leave off the two dots and just call her Zoe (pronounced Zo). So, I compromised and went with a y, so if we have a girl it will be Zoey Ann and a boy will be Lucas Alton (alton being a family name from dh's side).

QOTD- I have a lot of back aches, but not from walking- from sitting. My lower back kills me in the car, at my desk and on the couch. I have a small lumbar pillow that I am using on the couch and that helps a lot, and I may have to get something for the office and the car. It is super uncomfortable! It just makes me want to lose the weight asap after the baby is born because carrying this extra weight is no fun at all!

Pre-registering- I asked the dr. for classes and hospital info last time and he said would should have gotten the info at our first appt. but they must have been out of the packets, so I was supposed to get it when I was there, but I forgot. I think I was so fixed on the fact that I wouldn't get my U/S until 24 weeks, I couldn't think of much else! so, I will get the info in October and hope I am not too late. DH doesn't think we need Parenting classes. He seems to think we know it all- which I know nothing really, but he will go because I want him too! I hope we are not too late to get into the classes we want- but I guess I will find out next month!

I can't remember who mentioned the child CPR class, but I totally agree with that. I was a firefighter/EMT for 5 years and there is nothing more valuable. I haven't kept up my certs since I quit my department and moved to Texas, but that is one thing I want dh and I to do for sure! I still know how to do it obviously, but I would like to be certified again, and I want him to know too. It is a great class to have. The American heart association or Red Cross in the local areas will offer this class all the time too- not just the hospital! (okay that was my community service message for the day!)

So, I think my whole family is going to be there for the birth of my baby! My mom, dad, sister and her two kids and my other sister is flying in from Turkey! I am really excited. I know all you RO's are going to think that I am crazy, but I want them all here! For my sister's first born, we were all in her delivery room playing trivial pursuit the afternoon she was induced! Of course we left her alone when she actually had him, but we were there for a while! We crammed into her tiny house and had a great time. She even wanted us back for the second baby! I guess we are just crazy like that.

Rancher's Wife- I hope you are having fun with "the twins." I bet they are fun, but a handful!

[rancherswife]

bombera: Thanks, yes, very much a handful, but actually, they are good friends, they play together about 3-4 times a week and they play so cute together. I'm just dreading that Landon is going to miss his a.m. nap (Madison only takes one nap). Should make for a looooong day. ;)

names: We are using the same name whether it's a boy or a girl, just changing the spelling: Reece for a boy or Reese for a girl ;) No middle name for the boy yet, Kennedy if it's a girl. :)

[isobel]

This past week has been hard. I told my husband that the babies are against me. :) He said they weren't but my doctor's appointment today confirmed it.

I've been having sharp stabbing pains and a lot of back pain so I've been a regular this week as they try to figure out what's going on. All my urine samples came back clear so no infections (I thought it was my bladder). The NP listened to the babies this morning and told me they sounded increidbly active. She kept exclaiming over how much they are moving around.

So evidently most of the pain is from the constant movement and pressure. They had me stay off my feet today but I am back at work tomorrow, on my feet all day. Yuck. My husband is getting me a maternity belt today to pull the uterus up off my bladder. They are hoping that will help. Me too! Regardless, I am so happy that the babies are fine. It's hard not to feel nervous when I keep doubling over in pain.

[kathywathy]

rancherswife - I love the name Reece/Reese!

QOTD - backpain....I've been having back pain since 8 weeks. Physical therapist says he normally doesn't see pregnant women come in until they are farther along in their pregnancy. So there wasn't a whole lot they could do. Basic core strenghtening exercises and massages. It should go away after labor. It usually flares up during the transition times; getting up, lying down, not just with standing or sitting down.

preregistration - tons of options, but we haven't been able to settle on a date for the classes I want to take.

[rancherswife]

isobel: Sorry you've been in so much pain this week. At least you know your two little ones are what's causing it. ;)

Ahhh...I cannot believe I actually got both babies down for a nap at the same time. While watching my soap! Must have bored them to tears. Seriously, they've been going non-stop since 7 a.m., surprisingly, I'm not tired. :)

kathy: Thank you!

[dpangel33]

E'princess - I forgot to mention that while my name isn't common, I've had to spell it for people my entire life. Some days it bothers me, but mostly I just accept that it'll always be spelled wrong. I always think if I was a type A personality I would love the attention I got from it, but alas I don't like being the center of attention.

isobel - I hope the pain eases up for you, that's definitely got to be no fun!!

names - The boys name has been picked out for a couple of years now...
Eric Daniel (Eric after his father, Daniel after mine)
Madison Riley
(only a few more weeks until we know which one it'll be)

[Elenna]

Wow, busy here today.

preregistering: I've signed up for the childbirth and breastfeeding classes, but I haven't heard a thing from my OB about preregistering at the hospital.

back pain: No back pain, but plenty of hip pain. I did have a bit of pain that I think was sciatica while walking around the other day.

isobel: I hope the pain lessens.

names: We're thinking of Lee Edward. I want to spell the first name Leigh, but right now DH is vetoing that spelling.

[fashionista]

QOTD- Have you pre-registered at the hospital yet??
I have not pre-registering or signed up for birth classes. Thank you for the reminder dpangel33! The hospital's website says to register 4 to 6 weeks before delivery though. Oh, and we'll probably take a birthing classes just because, I like taking classes and gathering as much information as possible. It's the IT geek in me! lol:p

la_bride_2004: I'll look into going to the chiropractor. I have been meaning to pick up some prenatal yoga DVDs as well from the library. I just haven't gotten around to doing it. Oh and I waddle when I walk too! :p

aloha: I'll try the birth ball for back pain. My friend recommended it to be but, I don't know how to use it. I should as her.

E'princess: I like the different spelling of Madisyn. Rose is a pretty name. I'm all for having unique names. My DH on the otherhand isn't into unique names. He always brings up the scenario that if our kid had a unique name, he or she woluld not be able to find their name on souvenirs like mini state license plates, keychains, cups, etc. He's silly! Also, I have a common name and people still misspell my name. So I don't think it makes a difference how you spell it.

isobel: Sorry to hear about your stabing and back pains. I have bad back pains too. I'm getting a maternity belt as well and hope it eases up.

QOTD Names: DH and I have been going back and forth with names but so far have this:

Boy: Jordan (middle name TBD) My husband is a HUGE Michael Jordan fan. He origninally proposed to name the baby Jordan Michael. I shot it down. It's too obvious.

Girl: Chelsea (middle name TBD) I originally had Madison as a girl name for a long time. I fell in love with it when I watched the movie Splash. Then my ex-boyfriend of 7 years decided to name his daughter Madison. I was pretty irritated by this but, I'm over it.

[usafwife]

E'sprincess ~ I had CTS for a few years now. I was told in April if it got worse that I'd need the surgery. I see that happening sometime next year on at least my right wrist. On my right hand the middle two fingers are numb most of the time and the pains shoot up my arm. I'm wearing my wrist splint pretty much 24/7 on that hand and I was only suppose to wear them at night. My left hand is harder to tell until the pain shoots up the arm because I have great deal of nerve damage due to a fall 11 years ago on the ice (said my elbow wasn't broken but it definitely had something wrong with it because I can not get it straight to save my life, numb areas, and other things).

Those with issues with your moms ~ Sorry to hear about them and hope they get better. Take it from me in that you never know when might your last time to talk or see her. I wish I could have the joy of telling her what her next grandchild is going to be but I can't just yet. I wish she could enjoy with us the all of the things that happen with the pregnancy. I liked that so much with DD and wished I could have had this time around. Hopefully within a few months we can do that again.

fashionista ~ Unfortunately there isn't much that can be done to take away the discomforts of CTS. You can wear splints but pregnancy can make CTS worse.

Backpain ~ Yeap. I've had it ever since I was pregnant with DD. I've had many issues with the epidural site. I wish I never would have gotten that darn thing (didn't really do me much good in the long run as I was only pain free for about an hour or so, then back to feeling full strength contractions). It's gotten worse with this pregnancy as well. The 6+ hours we spend in the car each weekend aren't helping things either. Nor are the chairs at the hospital.

QOTD - Have you pre-registered at the hospital yet?? ~ No we haven't pre-registered. We never had to pre-register with DD. They just sent a copy of my records over to the hospital about a month before I was due. We did enroll in a lamaze/prepared childbirth class pretty early so we were assured to get in the class we needed (my OB wanted us to be through the class by a certain wk in my pregnancy. We had to enroll in an earlier class because if we would have waited for the other one we would not have gotten to the last couple classes). I can say that I'm quite glad we had taken the class we had. It prepared us, taught us things to do during labor to take your mind off the pain, ways to cope, etc. We learned a lot so I definitely recommend taking them. And if you happen to forget the coping techniques the nurses are wonderful at showing you once you need it. The tour of the L&D department was also good preparation for once you are in the moment.

Names ~ Fair warning that if you are happy with having to spell a child's name then go for a different spelling or an uncommon name. I always had to spell my name as people never got it right. It got to be a pain. Even my shortened name people can't spell correctly but that understandable because it's not a common spelling for it. My name wasn't common common but it wasn't out of left field either. (There's an actress with the same first name).

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

Had a good appointment today. We discussed a lot of things. She asked when my swelling started with DD and I told her between 20 and 24 wks so she said that it would surprise her if that started soon. Not looking forward to that. We also discussed how I was feeling (she knew about my mom) and asked how mom was doing. Said everything from the u/s looked wonderful. They were able to get all the measurements and look at all the organs and things she wanted them to look at.

We were also able to determine what the little one is. So














It's a Boy!!!!

[February2007Mommies]

Updated to here.

[Elenna]

usafwife: Congratulations on your boy!!:) I'm glad your appointment went well.

[jenjen0713]

usafwife - Congrats on your boy!

I've been so bad at SOs lately, but I am reading along with everyone.

Names - We haven't even discussed them yet.

Sorry to all those who are still suffering m/s, thyroid problems, kidney infections (ouch!), carpel tunnel and backaches. So, far I've been feeling pretty good (knock on wood). Gradually feeling little flutters which is very cool. :)

[E'sprincess]

Usafwife.... YEAH YEAH... Congratulations on your little boy!! also I'm glad your appointment went well.

Jen

[bombera77]

USAFwife- congrats on your Boy! How exciting. The boys are really winning this race, we need some girls to come through- but I love little boys.

Everyone's names are so much fun. I can't wait to "meet" these little bundles of joy. Have a great weekend everyone and threadmistress, please update my age to 29 today!

[phillytiger]

usafwife - congrats on your boy!!!

Sorry for no other s/o's - I feel horrible today. Going to try to get through what I have to & head back home. Have a great weekend everybody!!!

[E'sprincess]

Bombera - Happy Birthday to you... Hope it's the bestest....

Philly - I'm sorry your not feeling well. Hope your feeling better soon. Try and have a great weekend.

Jen

[E'sprincess]

Threadmaster, can you please update my mommy id to reflect our little Princess. Also I have an US appt and Dr's appt for Oct 6th.

Thank you..
Jen

[MrsSki]

usafwife CONGRATS on the boy!!!!!!

Names: This is what I'VE decided on:

Gentry Elizabeth for a girl - I read a book and the main female character was Gentry and I've loved it ever since. Elizabeth is such a pretty name and one of the girls' name that I used to be a nanny for 10 years ago and we still keep in touch. She's turned into a very sweet young woman.

Benjamin Jason for a boy. Benjamin for DH's grandpa and Jason for my brother. Both of whom have passed.

bombera HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!! 29 seems like eons ago for me. Enjoy your day!

I'm going to a wedding in Michigan this weekend for an old co-worker and I'm so looking forward to it. DD is staying with the IL's overnight. Yee Haw!!!

[E'sprincess]

Good luck to Janey and MrsSki on their BIG US next week.

[E'sprincess]

Totally MrsSki...... have fun at the wedding... So your coming to my neck of the woods... lol Where abouts?

[Janey]

USAFWife - Congratulations on your BOY!

Thanks E'sPrincess! We're excited. :D Since he hasn't been there for the last 2 ultrasounds, B's really looking forward to seeing the baby move around on the screen.

Re: Names - I love, love, love hearing about everybody's name choices! Fashionista, I especially love Chelsea.

I can't tell you our choices becuase we don't have them yet... once/month we've cut a few names off our "Top 25" list. We're about half way there. Though I won't tell what names are left (that will be a surprise along with the gender ;)) I'll tell you what names we've cut...


Boys
June: Charles, Aaron, Edwin (B's dad's name), Casey, Graham, Rowan
July: Lucas, Robert, Josiah, Miles
August: Ryan, Garrett
September: Samuel, Elijah

Girls
June: Maryjane, Maren, Claire, Julia, Sydney, Anna, Sarah
July: Lindsay, Audrey, Abigail
August: Ellen, Alison
September: Mariam, Josephine

I was sad to see both Josephine and Maren go, but there they went.

[MrsSki]

E'sprincess Thanks! I'll be going it alone and am sorta bummed, but then that leaves it entirely up to me to find out :D . And it's actually me that's coming your way for the wedding. It's in Stevensville at Round Barn Winery. I don't drink wine, so I'm not totally bummed about it being at one. Just allows me to do some sober Christmas shopping for my gourmet baskets.

And can I just share with you how absolutely wonderful caramel corn is. Chicago is famous for Garrett's caramel crisp. I bought some a couple days ago and it's still so wonderfully delicious and really hits the spot after a yummy lunch of roast turkey, cheese and broccoli pasta and corn. MMMMMMMM.

OMG - yesterday I ran into a woman at work that I haven't seen in several months and she knew I was expecting last time I saw her. She says "When are you having that baby?" Me: "Around Valentine's Day" Her: "WOW, you've got a long ways to go. you don't even look pregnant". OK. But I ran into another lady the same day, a few hours earlier, that I haven't seen in a while and she says "I didn't even know - when are you due!"

SO, to some, I'm just fat and to others, visibly pregnant. *sigh*

[E'sprincess]

MrsSki... I'm totally sorry... another Baby moment... Have a great time at the wedding... I guess I need to SLOW down and re-read everything. It took me 5 times reading a message from my mom today to actually understand what she was saying... LOL

I too hate the middle stage, am I fat or am I pregnant.. A few weeks will show all the difference.

[bombera77]

MrsSki and E'sPrincess- I completely understand how you feel. About 3 weeks ago I saw a friend who I hadn't seen since I was 7w and she said "you don't look like you are showing at all!" I told her "don't say that, that means I look this fat all the time!" No one should tell a woman who is almost 20 weeks pregnant that she isn't showing because you know they feel huge already! Oh well, some people are just funny...

MrsSki- have fun at the wedding!

Janey- I love all the names you had on your list that you "cut" I can't wait until your baby is born and we find out what was the keeper!

Janey and Mrs. Ski- have great ultrasounds!

[PrincessCJ81]

Holy Cow!!! You girls are moving fast!!!

Attempted SO-

Ladybug- Sophia is my absolute fav girls name. DH doesn't like it(some chick in hs?) so it's out for us, but it is the most beautiful name.

USA- Yeah for BOY!!!!

Bombera- Hope you had a great B-Day!!!

MrsSki- gourmet Christmas baskets? Sounds like a great idea. What type of items do you put in them. I am always looking for cool gifts b/c my family has everything they need and want so finding fun things is key.

All the ladies feeling fat- Yesterday I had to work a career fair at OU and I kept running into people I knew from college and HS and I know they were thinking man, she's put on the pounds. I wanted a sign that says I'm pregnant!!!! I think from now on when I go to those events I am wearing maternity tops so it's obvious.

Names: If it were a girl, it would have been Ava Grace, but since it's a boy his name is going to be Cole Thomas (as of now) This is the name DH picked out and I like it as well.

As for spelling of names I am Candice with and "I" and not and "A" so I always correct people, but I kinda like being different!~

[usafwife]

Here are a couple of the u/s pics that can be included in the ID. They were taken at 20 wks.

(pictures removed)


Elenna ~ Thanks.

jenjen ~ Thanks.

Jen ~ Thanks.

bombera ~ Thanks. It definitely looks like the boys are leading in this group. Happy Birthday!

philly ~ Thanks. Hope you get to feeling better. Being sick and pregnant is no fun (been there, done that before).

MrsSki ~ Thanks. Have fun at the wedding.

Janey ~ Thanks. We have a nephew whose name is one of those you've cut (from this month and begins with E).

Mommy IDs ~ Just a heads up ladies that MSH who updates them is due this month (believe this week) so she won't be able to do some of the updates for a little while. Hope you all understand but we will continue to send the updates and let her do them as she has time. But please understand there will most likely be some delay in getting them updated for a little while.

[Aug2002Bride]

you can take me off the Oct 18th day for my big US since it got moved up a week. The new date (11th) is there already!
Thanks!

[ladybug777]

I wanted a sign that says I'm pregnant!!!! I think from now on when I go to those events I am wearing maternity tops so it's obvious.

I can totally relate to this. If I'm not wearing clothes that are obviously maternity, I look like I've been hitting the beer keg a little to hard. And my mom's response to this..."Oh don't worry. When I was pg w/ you, I hardly looked pg and then in my 6th month, I just blew up!" Um, thanks mom.

USAwife: Love those baby feet!

Princess: Thanks. That name was actually DH's idea. It's really grown on me.

[Daniel's Kitty]

Hi to all!

I hope everyone had a great weekend. We did. #2 is still just a wiggle worm, with ds I was feeling almost constant movement, but I seem to be having a laid back little wiggler. Ds is still a constant mover though so it makes sense.

One of my friends at my mothers group has offered to let me use her maternity clothes. She is tall and had two spring babies. I can end my search for tall pants. Yay!!

[rancherswife]

17w 6d

Janey: Good luck at your BIG u/s today!!! :)

Have my OB appt. tomorrow, he'll schedule mine tomorrow, can't wait!!!

[phillytiger]

Hi ladies! We had a great weekend, and I'm feeling much better, thanks :) We got a lot of errands done, and I'd have liked a little more quiet time, but we've got to get things done while we can, we have such a busy fall ahead of us!!!

MrsHill - Garrett's is my absolute FAVORITE!!! I lived in Chicago as a kid, and we still get popcorn everytime we go back :)

Busy day at work, and then I'm off to DC for the rest of the week, so I'll pop in and out as I can...

Threadmistress - please change my OB appt from 9/28 to today, 9/25. Thanks!

[Janey]

USAFWife - I loooove Elijah, and think the nickname "Eli" is the bee's knees. Unfortunately, Elijah Hill isn't that great together, which is why it got cut. It's that "Two H's in a row" thing. I also noticed your daughter's name hit our Top 25!

Also for those of you who tend to like Biblical Baby Names... I had my mom pick me a book while she was at the bookstore: Classic Biblical Baby Names: Timeless Names for Modern Parents (Paperback) (http://www.amazon.com/Classic-Biblical-Baby-Names-Timeless/dp/0553383930/sr=8-2/qid=1159206470/ref=sr_1_2/102-2969626-5172905?ie=UTF8&s=books). A lot of the boys' names on our list seem to be either Biblical or English in background, and I want to make sure the names I like aren't the name of some Evil King or something. :p I'll see my mom today & will get the book from her, so if anybody wants me to look anything up, let me know.


Our ultrasound went GREAT this morning. I am 18w1d today, and I am measuring 18.1 weeks. So right on target! They also didn't find any markers, which I am glad for! I had a dream last night that I forgot to have the U/S technician print out any photos and I woke up at 2am mad that I didn't get any. Then I remembered that I hadn't actually gone to the appointment yet - duh! :p I told the tech about the dream and she said, "I'll definitely print out the photos for you - don't worry."

Face Profile: (this one can be added to the ID)
http://static.flickr.com/103/252578307_280e19b0d3.jpg?v=0

Tiny Foot; Tiny Toes:
http://static.flickr.com/111/252578211_c2049b890d.jpg?v=0

Front Face (the "Alien Baby" shot):
http://static.flickr.com/112/252578137_51d71c8027.jpg?v=0


I saw my OB after my appointment and the HB is nice and strong, and was ranging 140-150. My blood pressure is also down to 138/80, which is much better than it was last time (148/92). Perhaps hitting the water hard is helping? Who knows, but I'll keep at it. I am ballooning in weight, which while not surprising to me is still extraordinarily frustrating. I've gained 3 lbs just since Friday! :eek: When I told my OB that my weight gain was stressing me out, he referred me to a nutritionist, so I'll have that appointment fairly soon.

[rancherswife]

janey: Cute u/s pics., glad everything went great! Glad to hear your b/p is coming down. :) You didn't cave and wanna find out the sex huh? You're good! ;)

Love all the names everyone is sharing!!!

[Elenna]

Janey: I'm glad the u/s went great.


I'm loving all the ultrasound foot shots.

[ladybug777]

I can't believe I'm 20 weeks today. Where has the time gone?

Janey: Sounds like your u/s went really well. Love the baby pics.

[bombera77]

I love all the u/s pics! The profiles are my favorite. The babies looke so cute, just chillin' in there- waiting for the big day! It is killing me to have to wait two weeks- but alas, two weeks from today!

[Aug2002Bride]

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h147/jkpeterson99/baby2.jpg

Here is my earlier (8 week) US pic that can be added to my ID.

Hopefully Ill have a good one to add in about 2 weeks from my big US!

[rancherswife]

18w

Back from my OB appt., everything went well and we have a date for the BIG u/s!!! YAY!!! H/B sounded good, gained 2 lbs., all is well.

BIG u/s is scheduled for Oct. 10th and my next OB appt. is 10/24!

[February2007Mommies]

Updated to here.

[Elenna]

bombera: Those two weeks will go by fast. Before you know it it'll be the day of your big u/s. I'm amazed at how fast time is flying right now.

Not much going on here. I finished reading the Baby Bargains book so DH and I went over our budget last night to see what we could afford. I now have the go ahead to start buying the big stuff (crib, travel system, etc.), within budget of course. A babies-r-us just opened up in the shopping area near me so I think I'm going to go crazy this weekend buying stuff.:o

My brother and SIL are coming to town tomorrow so I get to finally meet my niece. She's about 7 weeks old.

[aloha]

It's been a hectic time. We've been putting all our extra energy into our remodel. We had my DH's teenage brother here for a week...whew! He was here to help out...which he did with quite a bit of prompting. It was nice to have him around for the things I couldn't help with lifting.

We aren't far enough along with name selection to share any. We've been brainstorming and gathering family names.

I think it was Fashionista who was asking what to do with the birthing ball to help with your back. I just do simple pelvic tilts, hip circles, kegels. It helps to stand with your back towards a wall with the ball in between and bend your knees up and down (you'll feel it in your quads). You can find more exercise ideas at babyfit.com.

[boilermaker]

I am loving all these u/s pictures!! It is hard to believe, at least for me, that our babies are all formed and now just have to grow grow grow!!

And 7 boys vs 2 girls :) Those chinese predictors didn't do such a good job huh? Unless all of us team greens have girls of course...

As to looking pg vs looking a little chubby, I get the same comments. Some people say I'm obviously pg, some can't even tell. It's about 50/50 with strangers right now.

Our babymoon was fabulous, but as I started uploading pics to flickr, I ended up using up my Sept quota. So, while I do have updated belly shots, they are on shutterfly. The best I can do is post a link, then move them to flickr in Oct I guess. I did include a few vacation shots of me as well :)

belly shots (http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8AbNGLRi5ZNGHy&notag=1)

[MrsSki]

Hi ladies-

I had a huge post and then lost it. UGH!!!

Long story short, I came home to water all over the kitchen and in the basement. We had severe weather and the rain water from the storm drains where our sump pumps drain into backed up in the kitchen. We lost the brand new floor we had put in last summer and most of the lower kitchen cabinets. The basement is all cement and there is no loss there. Homeowners insurance isn't covering any of this because apparently water damage and storm drain back up damage is an OPTION and not standard. Go figure.

Had my u/s this morning. HB is 156, baby weighs approx. 11oz and everything is where it should be and the right size. Due date is still Feb. 17th. And it's certainly the year for boys because that's what we are having!!!!! The tech printed the money shot. I'm scanning and faxing it to DH tomorrow. I called him right away and he couldn't believe it. I will have to go back for another u/s in a few weeks because this little guy was way busy and the tech couldn't get any clear shots of the heart. The baby kept rolling and showing us his beautiful spine.

I've got a trip to Atlanta for work the next two days and must start getting ready for that.

Glad to hear everyone is doing well and babies are good!!

[boilermaker]

Congrats on your little boy Mrs Ski!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm very sorry to hear about the water damage though. The thing about insurance is that you often feel misinformed. Even though water damage is an add-on, why didn't they ever ask you if you wanted it? At least then you would know the risk you are taking. I hope you are able to get things fixed and back together soon!

[PrincessCJ81]

MrsSki- Did the bad weather cause the water come in? If the weather was the initiator of the water than they have to cover the damages. For example, if high winds caused your roof to blow off and then water came in through where the roof was missing, they are required to cover it. If you want PM me the details and I will let you know if there is anyway around the exclusion.

Edit- Congrats on the Boy!!!

[rancherswife]

18w 1d

Mrs.Ski: Congrats on your little boy!!!

I am amazed at the amount of boys we're having in this thread!!! It's too funny! It's a HUGE surprise when someone comes in and says it's a girl!!! :)

Glad to hear everyone else is doing well, I've got a damn cold. Just want to go to bed, but Landon will NOT allow that!!! ;) So, I'll just have to complain here. ;) Of course, this is dh's busiest time of year, so he's been gone for two days straight, we've seen him maybe 30 mins. in the last 48 hours. He'll be home tonight, so I'm sure Landon will be thrilled, me too!!!

[usafwife]

MrsSki ~ Congrats on the boy! It definitely must be the year for boys. Sorry about the water damage. I'd say that if the water damage was caused because of the storm, then they have to cover it but I know first hand that insurance companies denied a bunch of claims after Katrina because they claimed it was flood damage and not storm damage. Well, the damage was because of the storm.

ranchers ~ So sorry about the cold. I hope it gets better really soon. I know it's no fun being sick when you have a little one to take care and can't just go back to bed when that's all you want.





I'm totally worn out. It's all the traveling we've been doing plus just getting further along in the pregnancy. I also think I'll ask about having my thyroid levels retested. I just feel that they aren't right and that's only making things worse. It's horrible not to even have the energy to clean the house when it needs it the most because we haven't had the time on the weekends to get it done. At least most of our traveling will be done as mom is closer to home now.

[fashionista]

usawife: congrat on your little boy! and cute baby u/s pics!
bombera77: happy belated b-day
janey: cute u/s pics! you didn't cave and and find out the sex either? we're so good! =)
Aug2002Bride: cute u/s pic
aloha: mahalo for the birthing ball tips. ;) i'll definitely check out the website
boilmaker: glad to hear your babymoon went well
MrsSki: congrats on the boy! sorry to hear about your water damage. I think its ridiculous that the insurance wont cover the damage.
rancherswife: sorry to hear about yoour cold. I had one a few weeks ago. My Dr. strongly suggest that I get a flu shot. Maybe you should get one after you recover. Get well soon!!!!

This is definitely a year for boys! My chinese prediction says that our baby will be a boy. We'll see...

Threadmistress: Please include these dates and my u/s pic below on my profile. Thank you!!!!

Genetic counseling: 09/27
2nd ultrasound: 10/24
OB/GYN appointment: 10/31

Also, my husband and I went for our genetic counseling today. What I thought would be a normal counseling session with a brief overview of thalassemia and the disease, ended up a scare for me and my DH. The genetics counselor told us that we have a 25% chance that the baby will have the worst case of thalassemia and be stillborn. She asked whether I wanted to do an amniocentesis to check to see if the baby falls in that 25% category. I declined being that its an evasive test and because of the 0.05% chance of miscarriage. She also asked me whether I would terminate the pregnancy if the baby had the worst case of thalassemia. I told her that I wouldn't. So we did another round of DNA testing and I have another ultrasound at 23 weeks. This ultrasound is a non-evasive test to see whether the baby is at risk. At this point I can't help but to worry about this. I thought we were in the clear after the AFP and 20 weeks ultrasound went well. I'm praying that the baby is not affected by this genetic disease.

Also, here is an u/s pic @ 18w 5d
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v604/dave_jacqueline/baby_cc.jpg

[sunmoonstars75]

I come in here with a heavy heart. jenahdawn went into labor on Tuesday night, and there was nothing the doctors could do to stop it. She gave birth to two beautiful little girls yesterday morning at 6:25 am and 6:35 am. They looked like two perfect angels. She and her family are grieving terribly right now, so please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Threadmistress, please remove jenahdawn from the roster.

[boilermaker]

Oh no. Jenah, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. I know it isn't much, but please know that we will all be thinking of you and if there is anything we can do, we're here for you.

fashionista, I'm also sorry to hear that the genetic testing showed you have more risk than initially thought. I pray that your little one is on the 75% side and is perfect and healthy! Love the u/s picture.

[jenjen0713]

Jenahdawn - I don't even know what to say! I'm so sorry for you and your family. I'll keep you, your family and daughters in my thoughts and prayers!

[Winter Biscuit]

jenahdawn - I am so sorry. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Wishing you peace and strength.

- Winter Biscuit (Jan 2007 mommy)

[LDS Angel 19]

As a former member of this thread, just wanted to stop in and send my thoughts and prayers to jenahdawn and her family.

Michelle

[stars]

jenahdawn It breaks my heart to read that news, thinking of you and your family.

Had the amnio yesterday. After much deliberation, my DH and I thought it best to have it this time around since I just turned 40. The procedure was not as bad as I thought it was going to be, I was a nervous wreck going in there and was in/out in 20 minutes. Have to rest for 24 hours and not do much, that is going to be the hard part, I keep telling my lil guy that mommy has a belly ache ... he LOVES to climb on me.

Hope everyone else is doing well and feeling good today.

[babae07]

jenahdawn - I'm so sorry. My prayers are with you and your family.

[aloha]

My thoughts are with you and your family jenahdawn. Wishing you strength to get through this difficult time.

[Janey]

Oh my goodness, Jenahdawn. I'm so sorry to hear this terrible news. I'll be keeping your family in my thoughts & prayers. If there is anything that we can do for you during this time, please let us know.

[zhannushka]

jenahdawn - I am so sorry, my heart is breaking for you... My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

(zhannushka - Jan'07 Mommy)

[Daniel's Kitty]

jenahdawn Hugs and prayers to you.

[Daniel's Kitty]

Even with the sad news I wanted to post something happy. We got to feel the little wiggle worm from the outside last night. My hubby was right there so he got to feel too. This baby loves when daddy puts his hand on my belly.

[fashionista]

jenahdawn : I'm so sorry. My thougts and prayers go out to you and your family. {{HUGS}}

[fsb2005]

jenahdawn I am SO terribly sorry to hear that. My thoughts are with you and your family, and I hope that you all get the support you need.

[PrincessCJ81]

Jenah- I don't have words to say right now, just know there are tears falling in texas for your loss. I pray for you and your family and if you need anything at all, don't hesitate to ask.

[Aug2002Bride]

Jenah-

We are also thinking of you and your family here. Im so sorry.

[bombera77]

Jenah- I read your news before lunch and it has taken me a while to figure out how to deal with this. I am overcome with grief for you and your family. I know in my heart that your girls knew how much their mommy loved them. That is the only way that this can make sense to me. I have a lot of questions when it is my turn to ask the Lord about life, and you can guarantee this will be one of them.

There is a song by Natalie Grant called Held and it is amazing. I don't know your beliefs, but I wanted to put the words down for you in case they might help. The basic sentiment is, He never promised it would be easy or without pain, He just promises to hold us when disaster happens.

******
Two months is too little.
They let him go.
They had no sudden healing.
To think that providence would
Take a child from his mother while she prays
Is appalling.

Who told us we'd be rescued?
What has changed and why should we be saved from nightmares?
We're asking why this happens
To us who have died to live?
It's unfair.

Chorus:
This is what it means to be held.
How it feels when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive.
This is what it is to be loved.
And to know that the promise was
When everything fell we'd be held.

This hand is bitterness.
We want to taste it, let the hatred know our sorrow.
The wise hands opens slowly to lilies of the valley and tomorrow.
******
I am not trying to force my beliefs on anyone- I just had to share how I cope with something as tragic as this.

The beauty of this board is that we come from all races and religions and are here together as women, as mothers, and I hope that we are accepting of anyone, no matter what they believe or how they live.

If nothing else Jenah, know that you are in my thoughts and prayers and that every woman in this thread (and many others) feel the same way.

[E'sprincess]

Congrats on your little boy Mrs Ski, I'm very sorry to hear about the water damage though.

Jenahdawn - I am so sorry, my heart is breaking for you. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Kat - That's great that you were able to feel your little buddy...

[usafwife]

jenah ~ I'm so very sorry for your loss. There are never any words that can make the loss of a child any better. It doesn't matter if it happened at 5 wks, 20 wks, 37 wks, or once the child had been born. It's still a loss. I hope you are able to find comfort in those that are near you. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this most tragic time in your life. I've gone through a loss myself and couldn't have made it through without the support of my DH. {{{HUGS}}}

Kat ~ I felt our little one from the outside the other day. It caught me so off guard that I had to put my hands on my belly and it happened a second time. Haven't felt any more like that since but I know this little one is much lower than DD was because it kicks in different areas than she did. I can honesty say that I do not care for the kicks in the you-know-what area and bladder.

[February2007Mommies]

jenahdawn ~ So sorry for your loss. You and your girls will always be part of this group. {{{HUGS}}}

updates ~ No other updates have been done yet but I will get to them later tonight hopefully.

usafwife

[maplekitty]

Just coming in to say my heart goes out to jenahdawn :(
You're in my thoughts and prayers!

[MrsSki]

Jenah - I am so sorry. Please take time to grieve and heal. My heart aches for you and I will pray that you find comfort in those around you.

Kat - yeah for feeling the movement from the outside!!

[dpangel33]

jenahdawn - I too am keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers!! I am so sorry for your loss {{{ H U G S }}}


And I'm sorry I'm behind in posting my updated belly shots but here's a few to add to the id's:

14 wks (http://static.flickr.com/77/224198045_d201772f70.jpg?v=0)
16 wks (http://static.flickr.com/79/237392767_887b384d9e.jpg?v=0)
17 wks (http://static.flickr.com/86/246192341_3b44165490.jpg?v=0)
&
19 wks -
http://static.flickr.com/109/254593304_191896770e.jpg?v=0 (http://static.flickr.com/109/254593304_191896770e.jpg?v=0)

[jenahdawn]

Just pasting because I can't go through it again.

The hardest part is that it's still considered a miscarriage or "spontaneous abortion" at 19 weeks. (Well, ONE of the hardest parts.)

We got home a few hours ago. He's sleeping behind me and I'm bawling.

Tues night I started having contractions. I was dialated to 2 cm. After 2 hours, I was at 3 cm and was moved "upstairs" to L&D.

6:15 am Wed, Sept 27, my water broke. By 6:30~ish, my beautiful baby girls were here. Katie was 7.8 oz and 22cm long (8 3/4 inches) and Chloe was 6 oz and 20 cm (8 inches) long. And they were absolutely perfect.

This afternoon, we gave our little angels away so their ashes can be spread over a flower garden so everyone can appreciate their beauty.

But I just want them in our arms again.

Recovering mentally, emotionally AND physically....this is the worst pain anyone can ever feel and the one thing I hope no one else ever has to.

We were told to wait 6 months before trying again.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Because of the size difference, the doctor and I talked about how it looked the the beginnings of TTTS (It may not SOUND like a big difference when reading it, but it was a BIG difference) and how I want to think of it as someone else ("upstairs" if you will) decided that it would have been very hard and the outcome would have been bad, so they ended it early for us. This way, it was nothing wrong with them, nothing wrong with me, it was just a cruel chance.

It still doesn't help with the guilt.

I wish everyone well.

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

To my fellow Feb mommies, I hope no one else joins my club. I'm hoping for every single one of you.

And, for the first timers....beware..."mesh panties" aren't as cool as they sound....(Hey, I have to have SOME sense of humor...though I don't feel like laughing.)

[boilermaker]

jenah, I had to laugh at your mesh panties comment. The fact that you have a sense of humor and positive outlook despite everything is truly a tribute to your strength. I am sorry to hear that it was considered a miscarriage vs a birth. We know better, those little angels were babies, daughters not fetuses. Many hugs to you. Take care of yourself!!

[February2007Mommies]

Updated to here.

[la_bride_2004]

jenahdawn Please know I am sending healing thoughts your way, and I am so sorry for your losses.

[Elenna]

jenahdawn: I'm so sorry for your losses. You and your little girls are in my thoughts.

[bombera77]

Jenah- That is just like you to be able to tell us a joke after all that you have been through. What a STRONG woman you are! I love the girls names- Chloe is favorite of mine!

Kat- I too love it when I can feel our baby from the outside- the other day I was interacting with mine as it kicked me, I would poke back! We played that game for a while before it gave me about 4 swift kicks or punches in rapid succession and I conceded to a loss!

Mrs. Ski- congrats on your boy! Those numbers are really climbing here! I am so sorry about your water damage. How devastating that must be. That sucks about the insurance. When we had a pipe burst in the front yard- they wouldn't pay for anything because it was not inside the boundaries of the foundation! All these rules! My husband just recently found a crack in the foundation of our home and I am not looking forward to finding out how much that is going to set us back- I wonder if insurance covers that...

****
Well, I am 22w1d today and all is well. My baby is kicking like crazy all the time and love feeling it. I am with you on the bladder kicks usafwife! There have been a few kicks where I beg the baby to stop!

I have decided that even though I want to stay home, I should be checking into daycare options just in case. I have no idea if three months into staying home we just decide we can't make it financially and I need to have my options open. I am going to check with my neighbor who has a one-year-old and ask her about where they take their boy. I remember her saying it is near our house. There is also a woman at my church with three girls and one of them is in school. I am going to talk to her to see if she might be interested watching the baby on a part time basis if I need it. I think I can work from home quite a bit for my company if I wanted to, but there will be times that I have to go in for meetings or to put proposals together and such that I couldn't do from home, so if I had someone on an as needed basis that would be nice. I know that drop-in day care centers are popping up all over now- a friend and I even considered opening one at some point- but I don't think that would be good for an infant. An older child maybe, but not a new baby. What do you guys think? RO's that didn't stay home, what questions do you ask and what should you look for? Anyone having any luck with finding daycare?

Have a great day ladies!

Michelle

[fsb2005]

Jenah Thank you for sharing your story. You sound like a very strong person, so I know you will get through this. Again, please take care of yourself and get the support you need.

---------------------------------------------
Daycare - we've found one that we like near our apartment, but need to do some shopping around. I don't even want to say how expensive these places are in NYC. Let's just say that in many parts of the country, it would be a mortgage payment. :rolleyes:

bombera77: I didn't have a specific list of questions, but more wanted to get a feel for the place, see what the babies were doing, how many caretakers were in there, etc. I did ask specifically about how much time the babies spent in their cribs, and was told that except for naptimes, they are not in their cribs. You'd probably want to know the minimum caretaker to baby ratio as well, and just hear about the general schedule for each day. I'd be interested to hear what ROs say as well.

[fsb2005]

Also, June 2007 mommies thread is up!!

[jenjen0713]

Daycare/Babysitter - We went with a babysitter. She was referred to us by a co-worker of DH and we love her!! When we interviewed her, we asked things like cost, times to pick-up/drop-off, did we have to pay for days he wasn't in daycare (when he was sick or if babysitter was on vacation), what activities they do, did she provide food/diapers/wipes, her thoughts on discipline, if she had CPR training. We looked around and saw the playarea she had set up for the kids, the bedrooms for naps with cribs and little cots for toddlers, the backyard, etc. We really like her and clicked with her and shared the same thoughts on childrearing and discipline and we knew she wasn't in it to get rich, she sincerely loved children and was lonely since her husband had died. I'm sure there was more we asked her, but it was over a year ago that I don't quite remember. Hope that helps!

[wasabi_green_peas]

Jenahdawn: I have absolutely no words to express my condolences. Please, please, please let us know if there’s anything we can do. My heart is broken for you.

[wasabi_green_peas]

Hi All, *waves at everyone*

Long time no speak! I am so far behind it’s almost impossible to do shout-outs, so I’ll just jump in right now and try and follow from here!

Basically, my job has gone haywire. I got a promotion in August, but it’s really hit full force and I’ve been traveling to client sites quite frequently. That’s not nearly as exciting as my pregnancy so I’ll just leave it at that. Suffice to say, work is not going to slow down anytime soon.

On the homefront, we have been crazy remodeling/purchasing furniture. It’s exhausting. We bought our house in January and in May gutted the kitchen and have been progressing from there. Blech. I’m excited for this stuff to be done.

I have my next (and final at my current place) OB appointment/big ultrasound on October 17 and 18th. They are a bit late (I’ll be 22 weeks at that point). That’s just one of the many reasons I’m excited about leaving this practice. They are way too hectic and disorganized. The bad part is trying to find a new practice. What a total pain in the buttocks. Really. I started to freak out when I was reading about pre-registering at hospitals and such because right now I don’t even have my OB! I can’t even begin to contemplate childcare! :(

I’ve been feeling great (still no ‘kicks’ from my little pea). I have had lots of round ligament pains - ouch – but they’re bearable… A little back pain, but only when I was on my feet for two days straight at my H’s bagpiping competitions last weekend. Otherwise, I’ve just felt really really good.

I have to buy some maternity clothes this weekend. I’ve held out as long as possible, but last Sunday (yes, literally overnight) I got noticeably larger. It’s crazy. I can’t wait to upload pictures, etc. That is my goal tonight/this weekend.

You guys have some great names picked out! I love Reese, Ava, Cole, Sophia --- bombera I love Zoe, too. No go for me, my H is much too Irish. So far we have Teague (pronounced teeg) for a boy and Nora or Amara for a girl. Those are subject to change, though.

usafwife, I’m sorry that your mom is not able to share in your pregnancy. ((( ))) Congrats on your BOY!

bombera: happy (belated) birthday!

MrsSki: hope you had a great time at your wedding! I am so sorry about the damage in your house – exactly what you don’t need right now. Ugh. But, congrats on your BOY!

Janey: your little one is adorable! Glad your u/s went well. And weight gain? I dunno. I kind of think our weight gains are ‘set in stone’ (assuming you’re not eating an entire pizza at a clip or not eating for long periods of time). Good luck with the nutritionist.

Boiler: I’m so glad you enjoyed your babymoon! I’d love to see pictures.

rancher’swife: Hope your cold has gone away…

Fashionista: I am so sorry for that news. Your little one is so adorable! I will keep all my fingers crossed that there are no markers. May I ask, what is the general prognosis of those with thalassemia?

Jenahdawn: Again, words can not express how sorry I am. You are in my thoughts and prayers. ((( )))

Stars: Glad the amnio went okay – here’s to speedy results. I am sure your little one is healthy.

Kat: Awwww. Glad your H could feel the little bug.

QOTD: Anyone’s H upset that you don’t want a 2nd? I won’t name my son after my H (I told him he can name the fourth boy whatever he wants --- ha ha).

Have a good weekend, all!

[Janey]

Janey: your little one is adorable! Glad your u/s went well. And weight gain? I dunno. I kind of think our weight gains are ‘set in stone’ (assuming you’re not eating an entire pizza at a clip or not eating for long periods of time). Good luck with the nutritionist.
Wasabi, for not doing shoutouts, that was a pretty dang good job. I can't keep up with them and it seems like I'm here at least daily. :rolleyes: Also - between remodeling & bagpipe competitions (how cool is that??), I bet if we lived close, we'd be great friends.

FWIW, the Dr. said to me pretty much what you just said. He said he'll have a woman gain 50 lbs. in her first pregnancy, and then come back to him for her 2nd and say, "I'm not going to do that again!!" and she'll try really hard to not gain a bunch of weight, and end up gaining 45 lbs. instead of 50. He sort of shrugged and told me not to worry too much, but I am glad he was proactive with me and set me up with the nutritionist anyway. I've gained a whopping 23 lbs (incl. 5 lbs of water that I gained when I went off the diuretic when I found out I was pregnant). It's freakin' me out.


QOTD: Anyone’s H upset that you don’t want a 2nd?

I'm the one that potentially wants the 2nd in our house. :o I love B's name. His parents did such a good job that I think I want that name to stick around one more generation. :) I'm starting to have strong feelings for a second boys' name though... so maybe if we have a 2nd boy, he'll get B's name.

And BTW - Teague is awesome. :D

[rancherswife]

jenahdawn: My heart is breaking for you and your family. My thoughts are prayers are w/ you during this extremely difficult time. I wish I had better words for you, I'm at a loss! ((hugs))

[rancherswife]

18w 3d

dpangel: Your belly is darling!!! I'm guessing girl!

Still battling the cold, but it's getting better, I'm just hoping Landon or dh don't get it. Dh is SUCH a baby when he's sick, he's more difficult than Landon is! ;)

Still not feeling movement everyday, which bothers me, but I know it's fine. I'm just ready to start feeling full blown kicks. Anyone else still not feeling movement everyday?

Ok...of to get stuff done while Landon naps.

I'm just devistated over jenah's horrible news. :(

[ladybug777]

Jenah: I just wanted to stop by and send my condolences and express how heartbroken I am for you and your DH. Please know that your in my thoughts during this difficult time.

[ladybug777]

I had my 20 week appointment yesterday and everything looked great. I'm up 2 pounds since last ime, so here we go...

QOTD: Wanting a 2nd: My DH is another one that doesn't want a jr. If we have a son, his middle name will be my DH's first name. DH says that he wants our child to have his own identity.

Daycare: I haven't really given it much thought. If all goes well, I'll be able to stay home for 1 year. After that, I have no idea. I've heard how much $$ daycare can be, so the thought of that scares me.

Has anyone started their registry yet? I've been giving this a lot of thought lately, although I haven't started mine yet. I'm thinking somewhere in the next month or two, it may be time.

[fashionista]

wasabi_green_peas: May I ask, what is the general prognosis of those with thalassemia? Here is what I found online:

Alpha thalassemia
Not enough alpha protein in the hemoglobin results in alpha thalassemia. It is commonly found in people from Africa, the Middle East, India, Southeast Asia, southern China, and sometimes from the Mediterranean. There are several different types of alpha thalassemia, ranging from mild to severe:

* Silent carrier state - only a small lack of alpha protein, so generally there are no health problems
* Alpha thalassemia trait or mild alpha thalassemia - lacking enough alpha protein to sometimes cause mild symptoms which are similar to iron deficiency anemia
* Hemoglobin H disease - enough alpha protein lacking to cause severe anemia and significant health problems such as bone deformities, enlarged spleen, and fatigue
* Alpha thalassemia major - no alpha protein is created by the body, so newborns with this thalassemia don't usually survive (they develop a disorder called fetal hydrops).

Thank you so much BTW for the words of encouragement. And thank you for the compliment on the u/s pic.

daycare/babysitter: My aunt babysits my nephew however, if I don't find work, I will most likely be a SAHM until I find a job.

QOTD: Anyone’s H upset that you don’t want a 2nd? My H doesn't want a 2nd but, I don't mind having a 2nd.

QOTD: Has anyone started their registry yet? We are probably going to start it in a month or two as well. We're still researching what to buy.

[isobel]

We just got back from a week vacation and New England and I am still crying a bit after reading Jenah's post. There really are no words.

~

Thanks to everyone for the well wishes. I am feeling a lot better after being off my feet for a week. The maternity belt is my constant companion though. I did not wear it today since we were going to be in transit for ten hours; the result is tons of vulvar pain. Fun.

Big moment while we were gone... we felt the babies kick from the outside!! I felt the first kick and my husband was able to put his hand down quickly and feel three more quick kicks. Unfortunately we have not been able to feel it from the outside again. They love to move around though. Sometimes it feels like a barrel of monkeys in there.

#2: We always planned to have two, just not at once. We are done after this.

registry: Started, at three different places no less (four if you count Stylehive. It's fun, but overwhelming. I basically went though the Baby Bargains book and just registered for thier recommendations for all the basics.

Looking forward to our ultrasound Wednesday. I must admit that I am hoping for a girl to add to all these boys. :)

[fsb2005]

QOTD re 2nd: I think I'm interpreting this question correctly in that it originally was about whether you'd name a boy after your DH (and not necessarily whether you want a 2nd child?)? Oh well, either way: I don't think we'd name a boy after DH. We haven't even discussed it, but it's not on our boys names list. Plus I wouldn't want to call both of them the same thing, and I don't like the other nicknames for DH's name. On the other kind of 2nd, we both want 2 kids, undecided whether we'd like 3.

QOTD re registry: Haven't started. Hard for me to make a lot of decisions without knowing the gender!

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

Speaking of gender, we find out tomorrow (Monday)!!! I thought I'd post one last belly shot in case anyone wants to guess before I find out... (don't mind all the sleep marks on my stomach -- I like to take these in the morning before I eat, which means as soon as I get up :))

http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e158/fsb2005/belly%20shots/sides/IMG_7742copy.jpg

Also, pls add this shot to my mommy ID when you get a chance...Thanks!

[jenahdawn]

fsb....girl all the way.

Just wanted to stop and say hey, and I'm thinking about you all.

Just to let you all know, my husband and I have a new goal....to have me be a member of the Feb 2008 (or January) thread.... :o)

[Daniel's Kitty]

Jenah You'll have to come back and tell us when you get that great news.

[Elenna]

Fsb: I hope you have a great u/s today. I'm going to guess boy for you.

Jenahdawn: I hope you do become a Feb 2008 mommy.

QOTD: 2nd: DH and I joked about naming our son a 2nd. But we just couldn't do that. We want our son to have his own name.

QOTD: registry: I haven't started a registry, yet. People are starting to ask if we have one so I guess we need to get started.


I didn't get any shopping done this weekend. I complete zonked out after my Brother and SIL left. We had 3 out of town guests (a friend, MIL and FIL, and my brother and SIL with my nephew and niece) all at the end of last week and over the weekend and that drained me.

[bombera77]

Fsb2005- I am saying girl. Oh yeah, build up those pink numbers! I hope your u/s goes well!

Isobel- I am glad a week off felt good. I hope you guys had a great time. Congrats on feeling the babies from the outside. It seems to be happening all over the place!

Fashionista- sending good vibes your way for good results! I have to admit, until your brought it up I didn't know about Thalassemia. It is scary how many things can go wrong- but let us know as soon as you know. I just know it will be good news and we could use some of that around here!

Ladybug- I am glad your appt. went well.

Registry- I haven't started yet, although I have been one of those crazy ladies on the street stopping new moms to ask about their strollers and car seats. I know, I swore I would never be one, but I can't help it! I think we will start our registry in November or so.

2nds- Nope, I won't even consider it and it is not a fun topic at my house. My in-laws then get involved and I feel totally ganged up on. I know I have vented this frustration here before so I won't do it again! We have decided on names and I am sticking with it, but help me if we have more than one boy... It will get ugly.

Elenna- sounds like a busy weekend! I would have been exhausted too! And you were right, my u/s is one week from tomorrow and time is really flying by! It's October already- how did that happen?

Have a great day everyone!

[PrincessCJ81]

Good Morning!

Hope everyone had a good weekend. Our weekend was pretty eventful, we drove around and looked at houses all day Saturday since OU had a bye week and we think we may have found a house we like,(fingers crossed) but we'll see. Yesterday, we went to BRU and looked at all sorts of stuff (cribs, strollers, car seats, etc) I am going to buy that Baby Bargains book today b/c I am clueless about what to register for. There are so many options it's a little overwhelming. Since I am a first timer I have a hard time determining necessity vs. nice to have. For instance, do babies use bouncers, swings, walkers, play mats, RO's any items you recommend as must haves or any items you never use???

Rancherswife- I'm not feeling a whole lot of movement either. I've tried talking to the baby, having my husband talk to the baby, singing, dancing, jiggling my stomach and nothing causes movement. Hopefully we will feel something in the near future!

2nd- I also wanted to name DS after DH, but DH says he doesn't like his name so no Jr. for us.....

As for having a 2nd baby, we definitely want another one. I actually want three, but DH says we'll have to wait and see where we are financially. I'd like to have another baby within a couple of years after this one so they can be close in age and then wait a few more years before having a third. There are 4 kids in my family and I have always enjoyed having so many siblings. But, as I have learned, my plans and God's plans for me are often different, so we shall see what happens!!!

wasabi- I think it was you who was saying you popped out overnight..... Me too!!! I was hardly showing last weekend, now I am busting out everywhere. I gained 6 pounds in a 2 week period. I've now gained 8 pounds total.... I think it may be due to the sudden binge eating I've been participating in. I can not stop eating. I'm seriously hungry 24/7 (AGGHHH!!!) My new found love for Nutty Buttys isn't helping either.

BTW- I love the name Teague


Daycare- I have pre-registered at a place close to my office in Las Colinas, but it's pretty high ($230 a week.) I really like the place and I am comfortable with the people I just don't know if we can budget that much in for daycare.

Registering- We are planning to register at the end of this month. My sis is planning our shower for December and I know people have a ton of other holiday expenses during that time. Hopefully, this will give friends/family the option to buy early or during sale times.

Sorry for the super long post!

FSB good luck at your appt today!!!

[Aug2002Bride]

I think the baby gear depends on the baby....We mostly used the swing at first....didnt use the bouncy seat much at all....the playmat we used when she was a few months older.

DD hated the walker and also the jumping things. Actually I have to say she hated the "jumperoo" that is its own little machine...she loved the door kind that hook onto the door casings. :rolleyes:

For this one, I sold my old bouncy seat because it was the fisher price toddler to rocker one and I figured for this one Im going to need them up high at times so DD doesnt attack! I also got rid of the walker, but Ive kept both jumping items for now. My aunts baby LOVES the jumperoo and has always hated the swing. So it really is all dependent on the baby I think...

For RO are you doing another registry? What if your having the opposite gender of what you had first?

[jenjen0713]

fsb - I'm going to guess boy!

2nd - We used DH's first name as DS's middle name. We don't plan on having a boy be a junior.

must-haves - Every baby is so different...some like the swing or bouncy seat, some hate it. Here's my thoughts...
*Personally, I loved my sling...it was the only way I could stop my son from crying sometimes.
*We used our bouncy seat ALOT...we didn't use the swing very much.
*4 ounce bottles are a waste in my opinion...just buy the 8 ounce ones.
*I never bought a specially designed swaddling blanket...a receiving blanket did the trick for us.
*The Boppy pillow was great for BFing the first month and then great when DS was trying to learn to sit up and during tummy time.
*I also loved our Bumbo seat and Jumperoo when he got older.
*Cloth diapers are awesome as burp rags and just general clean up cloths. I also put them under his when he slept at night, so if he had an accident, I wouldn't have to completely change the sheet.
*DS had a bib on for the first four month as he was a major spitter upper, so bibs helped me from having to change him into new clothes after every feeding.
* A mirror for my car that fits on the backrest in the backseat, so I could see what he is doing in a rear facing car seat.
* I liked the sleeping gowns for the first month or so. Made diaper changes so much easier.
* I personally like sleepers that button. The zipper ones require you to completely unzip them to make a diaper change.
* Butt Paste by Bourdeax is awesome!
*I loved the sleepsack last winter.
* The womb bear that makes womb sounds was a waste of money. It never calmed my son down.
* A comfortable glider....I spent hours in that thing rocking (and fell asleep a few times in it). We also have a ottoman, it I love it.

another registry - Probably not. If it is the opposite gender, I'll just buy what I need clothes wise.

[MrsSki]

Hi Moms-

2nd - nope. We aren't doing a Jr. We are using family names.

Childcare - I use an at home sitter at her house. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE her. She cares for children of various ages, so my daughter gets exposure to kindergarten age, her age, 18 mth olds and infants. DD is a dominant personality and loves older children and children her age and then mothers the younger children and tries to help with the infants. She's very sweet when doing so and that makes me very happy. I looked into daycares and wasn't at all pleased. I was a nanny for many years and worked in a daycare facility while the kids I was a nanny for were in school. PM me if you want specific questions to ask.

Must-Haves
Like jenjen said, every baby is different. We had everything when DD was born. I registered for everything Baby Bargains suggested. DD loathed the swing and LOVED her bouncy chair. We bought her an exersaucer when she was 4 months old and she lived in it. We had a Baby Einstein floor gym that she really dug from about 3 months until she was able to get mobile. I agree on just buying 8oz bottles instead of the 4 oz. But those 4oz did come in handy those first few weeks when running errands and needed a bottle just in case. I did buy those re-usable breast milk containers from Advent. I washed them by hand and use them for everything now. Including DD's snacks. And they make great stacking toys for her enjoyment. They've really held up and were great in the freezer instead of the bags for freezing EBM. Boppy pillow....I couldn't figure out how to use it when BFing, but it was great to lay DD in to just hang out and then for tummy time and when she was first sitting up. She uses it for her baby now when they watch a 'moomie' together. I also was a HUGE fan of two piece pajama sets for DD. She hated anything covering her feet and I hated having to undress her everytime she needed a diaper change. DH hated the gowns and refused to put them on DD. I'm still a fan of two piece pj's without the feet.

And we are not doing another registry. DD is only 2.5. Everything she had is non-gender specific except for clothes and I have a nephew. My sis gave me a ton of stuff. Love those hand-me-downs!!!!

[E'sprincess]

Rancherswife: I’m with you on not feeling anything, but I’m sure everything is ok…

Also I’m totally devisted about Jenah… I went home and told Eric all about it.. as sad as it was… he was a little shaken up about it.. and then to top the night off, I was having some major cramping.. scared him, which made me over react more.. but I’m sure she’s ok. Just can’t wait for Friday to get her so I can hear her heartbeat and then go and have the US done and see her.

Has anyone started their registry yet?… Yep, Targets and Baby Depot at Burlington. It was so much better then Babys’r’us. I also did it online, so I just did it while I was at work. :) A lot of those place have an area to start off. Something like what you really need to register for. That's what I did and then went from there.

Also I ordered my bedding set the other day. It’s so cute… I can’t wait for it to come it.

daycare/babysitter: Well as in 2 more weeks I’ll be a SAHW so to be Mom… after Baby here I’ll be a SAHM.

QOTD: Anyone’s H upset that you don’t want a 2nd? Eric doesn’t want any type of second. Even just Erika for a girl.. nopers. I had the name Aiden Jones already picked out for a boy.. and Eric doesn’t want another Eric in the family. So I guess Eric stops with him.

FBS2005 – BOY BOY BOY… I guess Boy….

Jenahdawn – We’ll just know that we’re all thinking of you too… Hugs and Loves…
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My weekend.

Friday..Eric and I finally went to Sprint to get me a new phone... yeah I don't have to bang the bajebies out of it to have the call go thru.. I love it, it took about 2.5 hours to sort everything out but finally it all worked out... ha ha.. I think it was the fact that I had an extra $30 in roaming charges on the bill that pushed" him a little more. Went out to eat a Steak n Shake and then Grocery shopping at 10:00. sleep at 11:30

Saturday..Got up, cleaned house and had some scrapping friends over to scrap the night away. I finished my baby shower invites for the Family shower... OMG, their soooo cute and I made them myself. I'm so proud of me... :).. We stayed up till 2am scrapping away... I will post pic’s soon.. I have so many to upload. Eric and his BIL played computer games all night long..

Sunday..woke up, tired.. stuffed up... went and spent more money at Targets and Home Depot, went out to dinner with my dad and Cindy, my sis and the kids to Mognolian BBQ. and then some more shopping at Old Navy.. I love that place. :)

Home finally at 7pm, relaxed and watch a few programs and then to bed for work today.

[fsb2005]

Reporting back from my 20 week ultrasound. Baby including all its limbs and organs looked great and healthy. Very fun to see it again, though I actually I think it was kind of harder to tell what was going on compared to the 12 week u/s since the baby was bigger and we didn't get as many full body shots.

But, we did find out the gender, so Threadmistress, please add me to team...





















Pink!

We are so so thrilled, and someone's got to bring those team pink numbers back up, right? :) Lots of people guessed boy -- I think I have such a long waist that you can't really tell...

[bombera77]

Yeah for another girl fsb! That is so much fun! Congrats and go buy pink until you are pink in the face!

This is just so exciting it almost makes me want to find out...

[aloha]

Congrats FSB on the healthy GIRL :p.

I had a Dr appt on Fri and everything looks good. The HB was 158 and I have the glucose test at the next month's appt.

We don't plan on having a Jr, but we'll probably have a 2nd child.

I'm gradually building a registry as I see things around the web and in-store. I doubt we'll get much off the registry since our family & friends tend to give creative gifts.

[usafwife]

bombera ~ There have been more than a few times I've had to inform someone to stop kicking me in those areas as it hurts. I love feeling the kicks (it's one of the first things I missed after DD was born) so I'll live with them and cherish them.

wasabi ~ Thanks. My mom is doing a lot better now. It could have been a lot worse so I'm ever so greatful that she is where is she right now (no problems that we can see right now other than having trouble concentrating on certain things - i.e. word finds, etc - and math skills but they tell us that will come back in time. Heck, it's only been 6 wks so we're doing good for where things where when it happened.).

QOTD: Anyone’s H upset that you don’t want a 2nd? ~ Nope. DH doesn't want to give his son his full name. In fact we don't have a single junior in any of DH's family. The closest we come on my side is that one of my cousins has his dad's first name but has never gone by it ever.

Daycare ~ Isn't an issue for us because I'm a SAHM. I can work from home if so chose but I have't since I was pregnant with DD and had to stop. I don't think I could go back to it full-time right now given my CTS and now my mom's health condition. I do get sick and tired of hearing it from one of our friends that we need to put DD into daycare at least one day a wk. We just do not feel comfortable with the people around here that do daycare. If another one of my friend's parents were still living around here I would have absolutely no problems taking our kids there but they live 1,500 miles away so it isn't an option now.

Jenah ~ I hope that you are the first member of the February 2008 mommies.

RO's any items you recommend as must haves or any items you never use??? I think it's different with every baby.
- DD loved her swing
- the mittens were useless as DD never kept them on
- didn't have a swaddle blanket (as it was mid summer when DD was born and they were fleece). If we needed a blanket we just used a receiving blanket.
- a good rocking chair (glider or whatever) is essential.
(I am sure I'll think of others later but those are it for now)

For RO are you doing another registry? What if your having the opposite gender of what you had first? ~ I'm not exactly sure what to do. I don't want people to think we are greedy or anything (which we aren't) but we also feel that this little one is just as special as our first. This one is opposite of what we had the first time so there will be all new clothes and boy things in general to get that we don't have.

fsb ~ Congrats on the little girl! We definitely need more pink around here. ;)

[jenjen0713]

fsb - Congrats on your baby Girl! I'm glad everything looked ok on the ultrasound!

usafwife - I totally forgot how useless baby mittens were! DS would never keep his on as well! Glad your mother is doing better!

aloha - Glad your doctor's appointment went well last week! Did they give you the drink to take home with you or do you drink it at the lab?

I have a doctor's appointment this Thursday...can't wait to hear the baby h/b again! I'm feeling more and more kicks each day and I love it! I am dreading the weigh-in though as I think I've gained close to 10 pounds since the last appointment! :eek: I think some of it is water as my wedding ring is getting tight and my ankles are swelling just a little, but defintely not 10 pounds worth of water. I stopped BFing DS this month, and I think I just haven't curbed my eating habits yet and the pounds are packing on. All for a good cause!

[jenahdawn]

fsb, you could see she's hanging out high! YAY!!!!! I'm not saying this to scare you....I never knew how to guess bellies, but I know Katie liked to hang out right up under my belly button and, by default, Chloe was right under her. Wonder why girls like to be high and boys generally like to be low?

Today's a mixed day. We went to the funeral home to be there when their ashes were spread. But I ended up with such a sense of calm. I know where they are (physically) now. That's a worry I don't have to have anymore.

I was at the ER on Saturday night....nothing really wrong, sent me home with nothing, but....I hope none of you go into labor on a Saturday night/early Sunday morning....especially if you live in a college (drinking) town! Matt and I only got to see the guy brought in in shackles....my mother and SIL witnessed some action...(not like you'd be waiting, but there was one woman who was there long enough to witness Mr. Shackles and his friendly police escort!)

Yep, new goal, 6 months, take a trip that's just for us, and in 7 months, find out we have a souvineer! That would put us a year behind all of you! And we have a drs appt tomorrow, which is a step forward! I have a page of questions for him already....poor guy.

I'm so excited for those of you still yet to find out!!!! I hope babies behave and don't be shy!

Forgot to add, five days later and I can fit into jeans. Why am I thinking that won't happen next time? The weight came right off....still can't wear my rings, but...

[stars]

jenahdawn Your strength and ability to have a sense of humor through all that you have gone through is truly an inspiration to all of us.

fsb Welcome to team pink :)

[dpangel33]

fsb2005 - Congrats on a GIRL!!!

jenahdawn - Glad to see you around and being humorous. I wish you the best in your upcoming TTC!!


We have a kicker!!! Tonight was the first time I felt a kick from the outside and
DH got to feel it too. I think it kinda scared him that it's a real baby in there :p

Good luck to all the ladies who have an u/s this week!!!!

[E'sprincess]

fsb ~ Congrats on the little girl!

Here's some updated pic's

week 18
http://static.flickr.com/85/259124064_31f7b3b188.jpg?v=0

week 19
http://static.flickr.com/83/259124067_8a6da97213.jpg?v=0

week 20
http://static.flickr.com/80/259124071_fd7cc63582.jpg?v=0

http://static.flickr.com/85/259124077_5c9e07f8e3.jpg?v=0

week 21
http://static.flickr.com/81/259124083_2928f5d1b7.jpg?v=0

I can't believe I showed my bare belly...

[E'sprincess]

week by week progressionhttp://static.flickr.com/95/259155042_ee99c720d3.jpg?v=0
http://static.flickr.com/92/259155044_4dcd2653cb.jpg?v=0

[babae07]

I did some major maternity clothes shopping this weekend. Old Navy had some great clearance items with an additional 50% off. I bought quite a few items for less than $2 each.

Daycare - My mom has offered to help on that end so we're not looking into daycare. We're hoping to speak to MIL as well so my mom won't have to take on full responsibility.

QOTD: Anyone’s H upset that you don’t want a 2nd? I actually suggested it to DH but he doesn't want a 2nd.

Registry - I'm itchin' to get started on this but I need to do more research. My sister has already asked so I'll probably start one in the next few weeks.

fsb - Congrats on your babygirl!

jenahdawn - I admire you so much for your humour and positive attitude. Good luck to you and your DH when you begin TTC.

E'sprincess - Great belly shot progression. I feel terrible for not taking any pics regularly.

I've really been lagging on posting my belly shots but here's my pic from today:

20w3d
http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h111/babae07/20w3d.jpg

I wanted to drop this off for some last minute gender predictions as my big u/s is tomorrow. Wish me luck for a cooperative baby!

[ejs]

Is it too late to join here?

Username: ejs
Me: ejs, 38
DH: mr ejs, 39
Married: 10/16/2003
TTC: 5/06
BFP: 5/27/06
EDD: 2/4/07
Gender Prediction: It's a boy!
Any other children: nope

[E'sprincess]

Shirley - I'm guessing a GIRL....

EJS - Welcome... on joining our little family... and Congrats on your little one..

Jen

[E'sprincess]

Here's the Invites I did.. all by myself... I'm so proud of me.. lol

Pic's got free from Snapfish and some other site.. lol

Pasted picture on to Cardstock... http://static.flickr.com/94/259299005_4bf38aa83d.jpg?v=0

add wording to vellum and attached with White sheer ribbon..

http://static.flickr.com/93/259299000_88d3a1aaf5.jpg?v=1159840437

Watcha think???

also here's updated Ultrasound pic's
http://static.flickr.com/97/259304059_86927c83aa.jpg?v=0 our daughter's profile.. I think she has my nose and cheek bones.. lol

http://static.flickr.com/81/259291247_bb83e41790.jpg?v=0 rest of her body...

http://static.flickr.com/119/259291242_5aefdeaca9.jpg?v=0 looking at us, with her hand on her head like mommy does... :)

[aloha]

JenJen-I'll get the drink in the office on the morning of the test. It would be nice to have it chilled at home.

E'sprincess-Great invites!

Welcome to the Feb group EJS

babae07-I'll say GIRL

[rancherswife]

18w 6d

jenah: All my best for a Feb. 2008 baby!!!

Must have items:
Here's a little list that I can think of off the top of my head that were MUST HAVES w/ Landon. Now, every baby is different, so who knows if what Landon loved, will work for this baby! ;)

Baby Bjorn-Great item and worth the $$ for those buying it for you. I recommend putting baby in this asap to get them used to it. We finally had to stop putting Landon in it to save our backs when he was 11 mos. old.

Arm's Reach Co-Sleeper-This should actually be at the tip top of my list. Amazing invention. Fabulous for nursing mamas and just convienient all the way around. We used it until Landon was 6 mos. old (the mini).

Gowns- For newborns, greatest thing ever, easy for diaper changes and easy on the umbilical cord stump. We used these for a couple of months at home.

Boppy- Another must have for nursing mama's. Also great for nervous daddy's holding the babe. ;)

Peg Perego Pliko P3 Stroller- I know this is an extremely pricey stroller, but I absolutely adore this thing. It's super easy to "drive" by far the most comfortable stroller for the child, I've ever seen. Another well worth the $$ item. I will be getting the front/back version (double) stroller for this baby.

Floppy Shopping Cart Cover- I love this thing and we use it almost DAILY in restraunts, grocery stores, etc. This is something you wouldn't start using until baby is sitting up, but it is another must have on my list. :)

Also,
A good swing (which I didn't get w/ Landon) We just registered for a travel swing, which was fine for him, but I will need a bigger/taller swing for this baby, as I don't want the baby to be right down on the floor where big brother can reach him at any moment. ;)

I'm sure my list could go on and on, there are so many great products out there. Some you'll thing you HAVE to have and won't use it or will find it completely useless, other things will shock you that you HAVE to have! This is just a small list of the things we couldn't have lived w/ out w/ Landon.

[rancherswife]

jenah: You are absolutely and amazing women. Keep holding your head up high! You are truly awesome!!! And thank you for coming in and following along w/ us. :)

fsb: Congrats on your baby GIRL!!! Finally more pink!!! Glad the whole u/s went well. :)

movement: The last two days, I've felt a lot more movement. I had to take Landon to the ped. this morning for a rash and while I was in death match 2006 (wrestling him onto the scale as he's got his little arms TIGHTLY squeezed around my neck.) The baby was go CRAZY!!! I still haven't felt it from the outside though.


RO's registering: I'm not sure yet. I do know I'm having a shower. My cousins are INSISTANT on it. I feel guilty, after all, I JUST had two baby showers less than two years ago. But, I think it's very sweet and it will be fun. As for registering, I just don't know yet. Still thinking about it. Probably will, just because I know people would rather buy off of a registry than not. It absolutely will not be as LENGTHY as my one w/ Landon was, though. ;)

Love all the belly shots. I REALLY need to do that this week, since my BIG u/s is next TUESDAY!!!

[bombera77]

babae07- I am saying girl. You look like you are carrying high. Have a great U/S today!

Jenah- You crack me up, I know you will be in the Feb 08 mommies (or maybe Jan) but I hope you stick with us, because you are one of us too!

RO's- thanks for the registering tips!

EJS- It's never too late! Welcome and congrats on your baby boy! This is such a great group, you are going to love it!

[fsb2005]

Thanks for all the congrats ladies -- it's still sinking in that I actually know what this baby is!

jenah - thanks for following along, and I too hope that you are the first member of the Feb 2008 thread!

babae07 - I never know how to guess on these things (and honestly I don't really believe the belly/gender thing), but it is fun to guess. I say girl!

E'sprincess - wow great invites! Very girly. :) Also, love the progression.

ROs - thanks for all the advice on what things were essentials. One thing I'm still pondering is whether we should get a swing. We're in a 1 bedroom apartment, so space is going to be a major issue and I'd like to minimize the extra stuff. On the other hand, I've heard a lot of stories of babies loving their swings and relieved parents finally getting them to go to sleep in their swings...

ETA: Next OB appt October 25. Thanks threadmistress!

[stars]

fsb2005 The swing saved my life, I had a newborn that didn't want to nap (believe it or not) and the swing was the only way I could get him to sleep during the day. We live in a small 2 BR house and the swing went in the kitchen and I plan to put it there again.

EJS Happy to see you here :)

UPDATE: We got half of the Amnio results back and NO marker for Downs. I have gone through so much stress the last week ... I finally had a somewhat decent night sleep.

OB Appt. 10/23 Peri Appt. 11/14

[MrsSki]

fsb You should look at the travel swings. My SIL had one and that's what I'm going to buy. They fold up rather nicely and sit low to the ground. That way you can store it when not in use and then if your babe is a swing baby, you can take it with you when you travel and visit locally. DD was a bouncy chair baby and that chair went into the truck before DD was strapped in.

Another thing I want to buy is a cushion and storage thingy for the bathtub. I've seen these at BRU and am wanting one in the worst way. I currently kneel on a folded up towel when bathing DD and her toys are in a plastic bin with holes. Of course, I've been bathing DD in the big tub since birth. Didn't feel the need to have a baby bathtub. Plus our kitchen sinks are pretty deep and that worked just fine as well. DD is a water baby and LOVED being in the big tub early on. I prefer to stay dry when bathing the child, but that isn't happening at this point. I can't get close enough to comfortably lean over to wash/rinse her hair/body.

[boilermaker]

I have soooooo much to catch up on!!! And of course about 2 min to post in here. Work has been crazy beyond crazy and it won't get much better until February.

fsb, congrats on your little girl!
babae, I guess girl for you as well.
EJS, welcome!!! And another boy to boot.

Naming the boy a 2nd...my DH is a 2nd. His mom would really like us to have a 3rd but I put the complete veto on that. I have agreed that the middle name can be a family name, however he only gets one chance at the family name. So if he uses it this time, I get to use a name from my family for kid #2.

Registering, not even thinking about it. I know my showers are in Nov, Dec and Jan, so I think I have a little but of time.

Ok, I'll be back for everyone's else's shout-outs when I can!!

Oh, and my u/s is this afternoon as well. But we're not finding out, so no need for guesses yet.

[Daniel's Kitty]

Swing We tried to skip this one, but after a few weeks we bought the aquarium cradle swing. I love it!!! It helped ds get day and night figured out since he would only sleep while nursing before that.

I want a bathtub this time since ds will try to climb in the big tub.

[jenahdawn]

My oldest brother is a third. My SIL vetoed a fourth, but he has the same initials as my brother, father, grandfather, and their middle name. I'm glad. Their name is a mouthful.

I'm anxious. My appt is in 5 1/2 hours. And, to add insult to injury, my boobs are sore and, when (sorry) "massaged" (cuz they hurt!) um...leak a little. *sigh* 16 months.

Of COURSE I am going to follow along! As I told two of you, my angels are watching over all of their Feb friends, so I gotta keep up!

[Janey]

Jenahdawn - It's so great to hear from you, sounding so hopeful. You are one fantastically strong woman! :D Feb 2008 sounds like a great goal to me!

EJS - Welcome!

FSB - Congrats on your GIRL!

Re: Gear & Registries - RO's, thanks for posting all of that info- Great stuff! I read Baby Bargains, and used the info in there to start a registry at BRU. I still don't know what to do about a few things, but it's a pretty good start.

[ejs]

Thanks for the welcome, everyone!

Stars, great news! What a relief. Were those from the FISH test? You will feel such a sense of relief when the other results come back looking good. Waiting for our amnio results sucked!

Jenah, I so admire your strength to still be a part of this thread. You're an amazing woman.

[fashionista]

fsb2005 congrats on the girl!!!!!
bombera77: again thank y.ou for the words of encouragement! i really appreciate it
alohsa: glad your appt went well.
jenjen0713: good luck on your appt
jenahdawn: good luck on your TTC!
e'sprincess: cute belly shots & u/s pics! love the shower invites.
babae07: cute belly shot! i say girl! btw, i'm from northern cal as well. which old navy did you find those great deals? i usually go to the one at emerybay and never find anything.
welcome to the club and congrats! ejs!
stars: so happy your test came back with no markers! i know how it feels to have no sleep and worry.
movement: baby is very active a night. i feel kicks on my bladder. oh and i play a tapping game with the baby. when i lightly tap my tummy, the baby taps back. hehe

thanks so much for all of the recommendations everyone! i never thought about getting a swing or bouncer but, from what i heard it looks like something that could really help.

QOTD: when is everyone having a shower? we were thinking january or december because november seems too early and december is a hectic month for everyone due to the holidays. the pro about december is that out of town people are in town for the holidays. the con is that everyone is busy spending money on christmas gifts.

[bombera77]

e'sprincess- love the shower invites. Too cute. you crafty people always inspire me!

Fashionista- I played that same game with my baby the other day, I was giggling at my desk forever! I love "interacting" with my baby!

Stars- Whew! You must feel pretty darn good about that. Why only 1/2 the results though? What are you still waiting on?

Boilermaker- Don't work too hard! You need to slow down... :)

QOTD- my friends are throwing me a shower on Jan 6th. I worried about this for a while because of the same reasons as Fashionista. Early December seemed too soon, but early January worried me because by then I might be freaking out and want to buy everything myself! We settled on early January just because my DH birthday is early December and I didn't want to go to mid-December because of the holiday stuff. I am going to have to try really hard not to obsess about not buying stuff before my shower. I don't much self-control, so this might not be pretty!

Another problem- Do I invite DH's family to my "friend" shower? For our wedding shower, I had the girl planning my shower e-mail MIL and ask her who from DH's side should be invited, hoping that she would say "oh no, we are having our own shower for family." That TOTALLY backfired and I had a combo friend/old people shower. Not exactly what we had in mind... So this time, we are wondering what to do. Same girl throwing me the shower but if she e-mails MIL, we will probably get the same response. How do we get the point across to MIL that his family should throw their own shower? My family lives 2,000 miles away and won't be throwing me a shower because logistically, that won't work!

I don't want you guys to think I am greedy and wanting a bunch of showers, but I would love to have a "girlfriends" shower without having DH's grandma there (who btw told me two years ago that I was getting too old to have kids, we're not real tight...) Should I have DH say something to his mom? Keep in mind these people are Southern Proper and although I like my MIL, I never know what I can and can't say and I really don't feel comfortable asking about things that directly benefit me... Oh me, oh my... I would be fine without having a shower with his side of the family at all, but then they would be totally offended- but if they aren't willing to throw their own shower, why should they care?

Any suggestions?

[jenjen0713]

bombera77 - Where I'm from, when friends throw a shower we normally invite the two grandmothers and that is it from the families. It is mainly this way, because, well, throwing a shower can get super expensive for the hostess...what with invitations, foods, decorations, etc. and if another dozen or more people are added on to the guest list from the families, it is that much more food, invitations. I say this is your time to relish and if you want a girlfriends only shower, then make it a girlfriends only shower. If your MIL gets mad, she gets mad. I personally wouldn't say anything to MIL, but if she brings it up, mention you are having a girlfriends shower so she gets to hint that family isn't invited.

[Janey]

Bombera - I feel for you with the touchy IL situation. If it was me, I'd just say "screw 'em" and do whatever I wanted, but that's just how I am. You're probably nicer. :p I do think friends showers and family showers are two different things though, and if a Friend wanted to host a Friend's Shower, I probably wouldn't invite any family -- not even my mom. Just friends. That way you have an out.


I met with the nutritionist today, and it was an awesome appointment. I'm soooo glad I went. I blogged about it here (http://stfunfw.wordpress.com/2006/10/03/nutritionist/) if you're interested in the whole thing, but I'll copy/paste the nutrition tips, which I think were the best part. :)

* Try cold Chocolate Almond Milk (can be found in the Soy Milk aisle) to fill my “chocolate ice cream” craving.
* Use wild rice, or combo wild/brown rice. Wild rice has lots of fiber and will keep you feeling fuller longer.
* Add protien to breakfast. Ideas include veg. patty/sausage, chicken sausage, egg beater, turkey bacon, string cheese, low fat cottage (yuck) or ricotta (okay) cheese. I should be eating the protien equivalent of 2 oz. string cheese or 1/2 c. egg beaters at breakfast. I am currently eating zippo.
o Putting an egg beater into an egg poacher with some ricotta is very good - like an egg souffle, she said. Try it over a piece of toast.
* Snack Ideas: Carrots & Hummus, TJ’s pre-made veggie snack packs (veggies & dip; celery & PB, etc), edamame, fruit & cheese.
* Craving chocolates? Have B dole out small chocolate bites. (I think this is dangerous; I’d rather do something else)
* She said, “You could have a handful of nuts,” but there’s NFW that I could have a handful of nuts. A handful would turn into a bowlful too easily. Having B cut a few into my morning oatmeal/applesauce is a good solution. I am glad it is almost Walnut season — those should be showing up from Wenatchee fairly soon.
* Now that the weather is turning colder, Hearty Soups would be a good option. I asked her for recipes and forgot to get them from her. I’ll have to send her an email and see if she’ll mail them to me.
* Omega 3's should be a part of my diet. They can help with pregnancy hypertension. Walnuts are good for this, along with salmon or flax meal.

Also, I forgot to post this last week -- the 18w belly shot. Not for the ID - just for here - thanks. :)
http://static.flickr.com/106/252631635_edef1f08bf.jpg?v=0

[rancherswife]

19w

jenah: Your last comment about your angels watching over all of our babies gave me chills and brought tears to my eyes. You're an AWESOMELY strong women!!! :)


janey: Sounds like a great appt. w/ the nutritionist. Thanks for the snack ideas.

No word from babae huh?

Ok...off to bed, I'm beat tonight, Landon was non-stop all day. But fun and playful, so who can complain??? ;)

[E'sprincess]

Bombera – Thanks for the compliments… I love the way they turned out too..

QOTD – As you saw I’m having my shower on Dec. 2, That’s for the family.. there’s already like 40 people going to be there. My Sis and Sil are planning the friends shower probably for Jan 13 (my late gma’s birthday) and then my Step Mom is planning a shower for there said on Jan 27. I also have somewhere in there a night out wit my Mom’s group…. Whew…. Although I don’t like the 27th as a date.. It’s a week before I’m due.. I think things will work out perfectly.

FYI – Jan 6th is a GREAT day.. It’s my Birthday … LOL

I don’t think you are wrong to want a “girlfriends” shower.. I think it’s actually better this way.

Janey - Glad your appt went well...

Babae ~ Where are you...

[babae07]

I took the day off yesterday and didn't get a chance to log on. Good news is that everything is measuring on schedule and I have a really active baby in there. Anyway...
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IT'S A BOY!:D

Add me to Team Blue. I guess my belly tricked everyone, even me and DH.

fashionista - I'm in Sacramento but I went to Old Navy in Roseville. There's an ON about 5 minutes away from me but the selection isn't as great.

ejs - Welcome!

[February2007Mommies]

Updated to here.

[Elenna]

babae: Congratulations on your boy!

janey: Thanks for posting those tips from your nutritionist.

Welcome ejs!

fsb: Congratulations on your girl!

bombera: I agree with everyone else. Just tell your family you're having a "friends only" shower.

showers: I don't know if we're having a shower. People at DH's work might throw one, but we're not sure. We'll register and just tell people where we're registered if they ask.

movements: Baby Lee's kicks and movements are getting stronger and more frequent (all day long as opposed to just mainly in the evenings). Yesterday, in one of my classes, he decided that pressing on my bladder was THE thing to do. I guess it was causing me to make a face because the teacher looked at me and asked "Are you getting this ok?" meaning was I understanding what he was lecturing about. It was a bit embarrassing.

[E'sprincess]

YEAH... babae Congratulations on your boy!

[rancherswife]

Babae: Congrats on your baby BOY!!!

And the team blue numbers continue to rise! ;)

[bombera77]

Yeah for a boy, Babae!

Too funny about Baby Lee's affinity for your bladder Elenna!

Janey- Thanks for the nutritionist info. good stuff. I have decided I have been taking in too much sugar lately and I am going to work on cutting back. I am good about the protein the a.m. though.

[fashionista]

babae: Congrats on your boy! . 2007 is definitely the year for boys! I wonder what the numbers are for the other mommies in '07...

btw, roseville is too far from me but, i appreciate the info. :)

janey: thanks for the nutrition tips. i'll definitely try them. :)

bombera: i'm with you on having having your own "girlfriend" shower. perhaps you can tell your mil that your shower is only a "girlfriend" shower and you would like a separate family shower so that you can spend better time with both groups. i find that many times when you put a group of strangers together, people tend to not mingle as much and the party is flat.

elenna: i'm with you on the bladder kicks. baby was kicking it alot last night and i'm getting more frequent kicks too.

[dpangel33]

babae - Congrats on the boy!!!

fashionista - So far the Jan mom's have 10 boys and 7 girls, so far we have 10 boys 3 girls and the March mom's have 3 boys (two are twins) and 2 girls. Hopefully men won't be ruling the world in 30 years!!! :D

QOTD: Where does your baby hang out in your tummy??

Mine is hanging out ssoooo low. I'm talking just barely above my pubic bone and feels like it's laying on my bladder 24/7. I hope it moves up soon so I get some relief even though I know it's down hill from here :D

[boilermaker]

babae, congrats on the BOY!!! How exciting. I can't believe how many boys we have in here.

jenah, it is great to have you watching over us. And you know we will all be cheering you on come Jan 08. Your DH better watch out for all the DTD pressure :)

fashionista, that is so neat that you can play the tapping game. I try poking my stomach to get the baby to move but it doesn't work. Hopefully soon.

bombera, I wish I could slow down but not anytime soon. I am working less hours, so that helps. It just means that I am busier during the day. For your gf shower, I wouldn't even bring it up with MIL. If they want to have a shower for you, they can. But you don't need to invite them to your friends shower. I'm not and I don't feel the least bit guilty about it.

janey, you look awesome! Great tips from the nutritionist. I'll have to look at some of those, esp the breakfast protien.

rancherswife (and all you other ROs), I don't know how you do it. I guess having a tot around keeps you active, but man, just facing the dog at the end of the day is enough to make me cry sometimes. I can't imagine chasing a kid around!

e's princess, those shower invites are great! So creative. Love them. I'd be nervous with a shower right before my due date too!

elenna, that is funny the prof "misread" your facial expression. Tell little Lee he needs to behave himself in class. Or maybe it's a sign that he's going to be the class clown :) (as a side, are you and usaf ok on the updates? Let me know if you need help).

As for the QOTD on showers, I know I am having 3. One in Nov (sat after Thanksgiving) for my family. My sister lives in England and will be home for that week, so I wanted it while she was in town. Plus I have to travel as the shower is in IN. Then my girlfriends here are throwing me one in Dec (I will not be inviting ILs to this, even though they are local). If MIL wants to have one for the ILs, that would be fine but she hasn't mentioned it and I'm not asking. I do know my dept at work will also have one, prob in Jan.

We had our u/s last night. Baby is still a surprise, which I guess it is a good thing we didn't want to know as "he" had his legs crossed tightly when the tech was down in that area. We call the baby a he because that is better than "it". Anyhow, it was awesome to see everything on the screen and to have pictures. I'll try to get DH to fix my scanner so I can post them here. One thing I thought was really cute is that we got a really good profile shot and he has my nose :)

[usafwife]

ejs ~ Welcome to the group!

Jen ~ Those shower invites are very nice. Where did you find the picture on the front?

fsb ~ You could always go with a travel swing. They are smaller and don't take up as much room as a big swing. We were told by the nurses at the hospital that they hoped we had a swing because DD loved theirs. We said yes (it was one item that my mom bought for us). It was a lifesaver for us more times than I care to count.

stars ~ Yay, for no Downs markers. How long do you have to wait to get the other half of the results back?

Jenah ~ Of COURSE I am going to follow along! As I told two of you, my angels are watching over all of their Feb friends, so I gotta keep up!
That's so sweet of you.

QOTD - When are you having a shower? ~ I have no idea even if we were to have one. November seems a bit too early and January too late. December is always a busy month with Christmas parties, being gone one weekend, Christmas shopping, getting ready for Christmas, etc. And we can never count on the weather around here in December, January, or February (and sometimes clear through March).

bombera ~ You could do a virtual shower for your family. Have everyone send you the gifts, then have everyone get together somewhere where there is computer and internet access (even if it's at several locations) and open the gifts while you have a web camera connected. The guests have web cameras as well (sort of connect to yahoo or another instant messaging program and communicate via that way).

Does your DH have a sister that could throw the shower? Or even a SIL? Maybe they could do one for your DH's side of the family.

babae07 ~ Congrats on the little boy!!!

Elenna ~ The bladder kicks (and other umm locations) are this little ones most favorite things to do most of the time. I had him kicking me in those locations and DD patting my arm earlier today. I told little one that it wasn't nice to kick mommy in those locations but it didn't do one bit of good because it continued on for over an hour.

QOTD - Where does your baby hang out in your tummy? ~ Very low most of the time. Usually it's either right at my waist line (I felt him there pretty much all day long a wk ago yesterday) and below. It's totally different than with my DD (she was higher) and I didn't have the bladder kicks (and other lower locations) until much further along.

boilermaker ~ Having DD around definitely keeps me active whether I want to be or not. Today I'd much rather be laying down trying to get rid of a headache that's been around for nearly a week now.


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

I think I have the beginnings of something I was hoping to avoid with this pregnancy. I think my BP is starting to increase. I have had headaches for nearly a week now that won't go away even with Tylenol. This morning when I woke up my hands were a little swollen. I could not remove one of my rings that I normally can with no problems (it's a tad loose to begin with). If things continue to get worse then I'll be calling to see if we can get in earlier to see the OB than my scheduled appt.

[aloha]

Congrats on joining the BOY crowd Babae!

Boilermaker-Glad to hear you saw a healthy baby on your u/s.

Bombera-I would invite whomever you want to your shower and not feel guilty. They can always choose to throw their own shower if they desire.

Jenah-Thanks for sticking with us and we'll all be watching out for a BFP leading to a Feb '08 baby.

QOTD: Where does your baby hang out in your tummy? Definitely low. We've been feeling quite a bit of movement :D and it's all several inches below my belly button.

Thanks for sharing the nutrition suggestions Janey. I've definitely been eating more string cheese than I ever have before. I try to have some protein, calcium & iron at most meals/snacks since I eat primarily vegetarian.

[isobel]

Okay, after my ultrasound I can even out the numbers a bit. :D We're having
two girls! I was slightly disappointed (who doesn't want one of each?) and my husband was even more so but it was so wonderful to see them wiggling around in there. We did get some slightly bad news, one is measuring about 30% smaller. The Dr. isn't too concerned yet but that doesn't assuage over anxious first time parents. :o

Here is a belly shot finally:
Clothed:
http://pics.livejournal.com/guavalicious/pic/000156tz/s320x240
Revealed
(for the mommy ID):
http://pics.livejournal.com/guavalicious/pic/00016hc2/s320x240

QOTD: Shower timing: I am planning three of my showers for the first weekend of December. It is the first time I get get to Dallas and I wanted them early in case the twins decide to come early. Some friends are having a small one for us here but I don't know when that will be. I know three seems like a lot, but two are two different groups of my mom's friends and the third is for family/Dallas friends.

[jenahdawn]

Oh, isobel!!!!! That is SOOOOO exciting!!!! (The girls) But, scary.....but, remember, your's will be fine....

A step forward....got my prenatals refilled. Doc wants me to stay on them.

Hey, I don't say things looking for sympathy, I say them because I mean it! (I just hope none of you think I'm odd for "stalking" you.)

[isobel]

Hey, I don't say things looking for sympathy, I say them because I mean it! (I just hope none of you think I'm odd for "stalking" you.)

Stalking?! You silly, you're a part of our group!

[rancherswife]

19w 1d

dpangel: You mentioned your babe hanging out low. That's a sign (to me, but what do I know! ;)) that it's a boy. Landon was SO low from the start, he never really got too high. Though I have a strong feeling that this baby is a boy too, I am feeling it a bit higher this time. Oh, and I have TOTALLY been thinking the same thought about the amount of boys going to be born in 2007! CRAZY!!! I'm trying to remember, we're pretty even in Landon's May/June 05 thread. If I remember correct there are a few more girls.

isobel: Congrats on the two baby girls!!! Are they identical? I can't remember if you've said. Just think of the wonderful relationship they will share! So neat. :) Did the dr. say it was fairly normal that one baby be that much smaller? Just curious, I don't know much about twinsee's.

boiler: Ha! Yeah, it makes for exciting days...I will tell you, this pgcy has gone by WAAAAAAAY faster than Landon's did. I think it's GOT to have something to do w/ chasing his craziness around all day. I love it. I hope I never sound like I'm complaining about it....:)

jenah: Oh, please, you're a part of our group for heaven sake, it wouldn't be the same w/ out you and your great humor and thoughts on everything!