January 2007 Mommies - Part II

[GardenGirl]

Just got a call from the nurse about my 3 hour GTT test. All is normal, not even close to borderline. I didn't ask my values (didn't really care actually). Just happy all is well. And surprisingly I'm not upset I had to go through that misery for nothing, as it wasn't all that miserable. Looks like I'm another one of those of false positives.

The invitations for my office shower went out yesterday and now it's all anyone can talk about. I'm a highly visible person (in Admin) for a 55 person company. I graduated college while working here, got engaged/married while working here, bought my first house while working here and now I'm having a baby. Everyone has "watched me growup" as they say. Anyhow, I have lots of involved coworkers (thankfully none that give advice like some of the ones you ladies work with).

I'm looking forward to this weekend - we are having fabulous weather in Houston. I plan to spend as much time outside as possible. Hope you ladies have a great one!

[zhannushka]

Congratulations on passing the GTT, Tera! And how nice that your co-workers are so involved, without all the unnecessary advice! :p

[robyn]

Thanks for all the stroller advice ladies. I guess I know that there's no perfect stroller, but that's what drives me crazy!! I wish there was something ideal. Oh well. I guess I still have a little time to think about it, and I just might wait a couple of months and see what's new on the market, if anything.

Had my 1 hour GTT yesterday. It wasn't so bad ... they gave me the cola flavored drink which is fine with me since I sort of actually like flat cola. :) I can see how some people might not enjoy it, though. Dr. said everything looks good and that after my next appointment (in three weeks) I'll start going to every two weeks. Wow! I can't believe we're there already!

Hope to get some major nursery organizing done this weekend. Up until this point I've just been tossing things into the room and it is a disaster. I have no idea how to go about organizing the baby clothes ... by size? By type (sleepwear, "going out" clothes, etc.)?

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

[jmvan74]

Congrats on passing the GTT, Tera! Your office shower sounds like it will be a blast.

Robyn: I'm sure you will find a great stroller.;)
I personally reccomend checking out a zooper, too. If you check out zooperstrollers.com you can find a location to try one. They handle really well and are reasonably priced. Just my 2 cents. :p
As for the clothes....I still have trouble organizing my sons clothes. LOL!

I'm only sleeping in about 4 hour increments these days. Sooo tired. I can tell I'm growing again b/c I can feel my uterus against my ribs, which makes breathing fun, plus i have a bit of burning/ stretching sensation. :rolleyes: Other than that everything seems fine. Baby moves a ton and I think we may have started w/ hiccups.
My next OB appt. is november 6th Then it's every 2 weeks. Wow!

[NYLACHI]

You guys are sort of freaking me out now because I don't have my GTT until November 7 when I'll be 29 weeks3days. But we're going to Disneyworld (hooray!) all next week for our babymoon and 1st anniversary and they said they would just do it after I got back. I don't seem to have any of the risk factors but I wish I could have gotten in for the test before we left so I would know to eat a bit better. But could I eat well in Disney? Maybe not!

Our couple's shower invites go out on Monday!

[magdesilver]

robyn It is probably wise to wait because lots of stroller companies are coming out with new lines/colors/models in the coming months. You can read a review of what is coming at strollerqueen.com (it does cost $$ to read the review but it's got tons of info!). Anyhow, it cannot hurt to wait whatsoever, no worries!

Tera: Congrats on passing your GTT, I am sure it is a load of your back for sure!

jmvan I am carrying much lower this time around. Last time baby was right under my bb's but this time around I have much more space between the bb's and belly. I guess what they say about boys vs. girls is true? At least for me it has been! But I think I mostly remember the very end with DD, not this stage, kwim?

zhanna Keep us posted on the house news! So exciting! We moved into our new house when DD was 3 months old, of course we were supposed to be in about 2 months before that but everything takes 2x as long when you are building than they say!

Alegna Hope your u/s was great!!

I have my next appt. on Nov. 2 and then it's every 2 weeks after that. It has really flown by! Unfortunately DH will be out of town for the most part continuously until early January....totally stinks! Honestly if DD didn't go to Mother's Day Out 2 days a week I think I would go insane!

[Alegna]

U/S went good. It's torture to make us fill our bladder and then push around on our stomachs with the wand. At least they have a warmer for the gel at the hosptial.

Baby looks good. Got all the measurements they couldn't get at the 20w U/S. Couldn't get a good shot of the face. Baby was being shy and kept looking down/away. But the feet....OMG the feet were the cutest thing I've ever seen in my life. It's probably just because it was pretty clear what I was looking at. Everything else was mostly a blob. :rolleyes:

The tech said the measurments have me at 27w6d. Not bad. Only 6 days ahead. Considering it's not as accurate now, I'm right on schedule. She said the baby weighs aprox 2 lbs 6 oz right now.

The tech didn't print me any pictures. I asked at the end as I was getting my coat on and she said, "oh, did you want some? You should have reminded me." :mad: Now what expectant mother doesn't want a print out of their ultrasound? That's just the dumbest thing I've ever heard of. I don't have to ask at the doctors office. They just printed 2 or 3 different shots out for me. Oh well, guess I've learned my lesson. Don't assume. I'll just have to wait 13 more weeks and get pictures then. :)

Wow ~ is it really only 13 more weeks? YIKES!

[zhannushka]

I've got some awesome news to report! - the sellers accepted our offer, so - we signed the contract last night!!! Of course, nothing is set in stone until we're out of the attorney review, but - YAY YAY YAY!!! :D

[GardenGirl]

Zhanna - congrats on the contract!! Do you have an estimated move in date. That's just wonderful news!

Angela - sorry about the pics. Yeah, I've never had to ask for pictures either. I was real disappointed in our pics from the 20w u/s. She took random shots of the spine, arms, etc. Yes, I know you need them for measurements but couldn't you give me an overall profile or something. That's the reason I never posted a pic from then. I'm not sure if we'll get another one. Some docs do and some don't. Not sure about ours. I would like to get one really good picture of the baby in utero. But I can wait 11 more weeks, yes 11 more weeks. Holy cow!!

I have my dr appt this Thursday and it's every two weeks from then on (well until I go every week:) ). I just can't believe it!!

[zhannushka]

Thanks Tera! The sellers want to close in 30 days (around Nov. 20th), but we're still trying to sell our condo, which is not going all that well... :( Not that I want to stall the process or anything, but I am not too excited about the idea of paying 2 mortgages, kwim? But it looks like we'll definitely be moving BEFORE the baby's due date, which is all I care about at this point! :)

[jmvan74]

Congrats on the contract Zhanna!

[GardenGirl]

Zhanna - that's a tough spot. I have a friend I work with that is having trouble selling her townhome. They went ahead and sealed the deal on their new house and while they are paying two mortgages, she is glad she didn't miss the opportunity on her house. It was exactly what she wanted. It's been 3 months and they seem to be really close to a deal right now, I'm hoping. Best of luck to you!!

The countdown to our shower is coming close - 2 weeks. I'm so excited. All the women in my family are coming in and most of my close friends too. I'm on hold for buying anything until after the showers. I don't want to buy anything I might get, much less spend any money I don't need too. So come the holiday season, I'll be all about finishing up the nursery and buying the odds and ends.

At my doctors appointment on Thursday I'm going to ask about this pain I keep having below my bra line, about 2-3 inches. I think it might be my muscles stretching and seperating. But it is like someone is putting a hot iron on my stomach and pushing down. So it's a burning pressure. I know it's not heartburn or indigestion, but I don't know what it actually is. I meant to ask last time but forgot. I won't this time!! And hopefully I won't take the cop out answer "It's preganancy, it'll go away." I got that answer about my sciatic bothering me and making my leg fall asleep. I'll be bringing that up too as I was up all night walking around trying to gain feeling in my leg again ...

[NYLACHI]

OK Zhanna-- we ended up with the Venezia too! We finally got our butts to BRU today and DH tried everything and liked the Venezia the most. I planned to add it to our registry when I got home and they don't have their '06 models on the site yet and ended up finding it in the color we wanted at babydealz.com for $289 so we just ordered it. I am a little worried that it's super heavy but we live in the 'burbs. Hopefully it will be ok. And someone (mom I'm sure) bought the matching carseat today too off our registery-- I'm a dirty peeker. LOL.

I can't believe I'm in the buying-stuff portion of the pregnancy. CRAZY.

[magdesilver]

NYLACHI- Just want to make you aware that BABYDEALZ is NOT an authorized PP dealer. They often sell the european models of peg strollers (which often do not come with the child tray). Also you will not get any sort of warranty from PP should something go wrong with your stroller (normally you get a 1 year manufacturer warranty). Might not be a big deal, but it might so if it is to you, you might want to cancel your order and get one from an authorized, reputable dealer, such as Albee baby. Also peg is coming out with their 2007's in November so if you can wait until then you can probably get a good deal on a 2006 as well. Just wanted to let you know that.

[mommydearest]

Albee's has the 2005 Venezia in black sable for $219 and in Safari for those that were interested. They don't have any more of the 2006s though. I have ordered from them 4 times and gotten the merchandise within a 4 days every time.

[zhannushka]

NYLACHI and Margaret - even though Babydealz is not an authorized PP dealer, they do offer their own warranty which covers the same particulars the official warranty would cover. Also, the 2005 Venezia we ordered from them does come with a child tray (we ordered Bluemoon, I don't know whether it is the same for the model NYLACHI ordered.) Just thought I'd point that out...

Thank you for the congrats on signing the contract everyone! We're very excited and even though it is a little scary, since we haven't sold the condo yet - we are hoping that things will work themselves out somehow...

[NYLACHI]

NYLACHI and Margaret - even though Babydealz is not an authorized PP dealer, they do offer their own warranty which covers the same particulars the official warranty would cover. Also, the 2005 Venezia we ordered from them does come with a child tray (we ordered Bluemoon, I don't know whether it is the same for the model NYLACHI ordered.) Just thought I'd point that out...
.

Ugh, I figured it was too good to be true. $289 out the door is such a good price though and it says that it does come with a child tray. We ordered the '06 in Rubino to match with the carseat. I actually like the colors in the '05s a bit better but the carseat has already been purchased so...

Zhanna, do you know if you have to purchase a warranty with babydealz separately or if it just automatically comes with it?

[zhannushka]

Zhanna, do you know if you have to purchase a warranty with babydealz separately or if it just automatically comes with it?
I just called them and was told that their warranty is 30 days only - if you find anything wrong with the stroller within 30 days of purchase, you can ship it back to them for refund or exchange. To be honest - I did assume when making the purchase that their warranty is 1 year, just like the manufacturer's. We received the stroller on Friday and didn't even bother opening the box! Now, at least we know to open the box ASAP and make sure that everything is OK. Thanks Margaret!

[magdesilver]

Personally, if you can return it with no penalties (or cancel your order NYLACHI since you haven't received it yet), I would. 30 days is not much, especially when you are ordering it well in advance of actually using it. I'd pay a little more (and you probably can find the same or similar deal on what you want between now and January) for the PP 1 year warranty myself.

[zhannushka]

Margaret, we'd have to pay the shipping costs if we wanted to return, but I think that's about it... The only thing (just like in NYLACHI's case) - we already have a matching carseat, which we got from Albee. I have to talk to my DH and see if we want to return it and re-purchase the same stroller from another merchant for a little more money, but with a piece of mind...

[NYLACHI]

OK I cancelled. I hope that was the right thing to do. A part of me is freaked about getting defective merchandise but the cheap me was happy that we found the stoller for such a low price!

[zhannushka]

I just called them and was told that their warranty is 30 days only - if you find anything wrong with the stroller within 30 days of purchase, you can ship it back to them for refund or exchange. To be honest - I did assume when making the purchase that their warranty is 1 year, just like the manufacturer's. We received the stroller on Friday and didn't even bother opening the box! Now, at least we know to open the box ASAP and make sure that everything is OK. Thanks Margaret!
OK, so - I just called them back and spoke with a guy whose name is Marty. He said that the woman I spoke with made a mistake and they do have a 1-year warranty on all products they sell. According to him, the only difference between the manufacturer's 1 year warranty and their 1 year warranty is that you'd ship the item to them for warranty service, and you need your Babydealz invoice instead of a manufacturer's warranty certificate. He also assured me that all Venezia stollers come with a child tray and that if it's not in the box - call them back. If that's the case, DH and I decided to stick with what we ordered from them, since no other merchant (and I've been checking!) carries the 2005 Blu Moon, which is what we ordered.

[magdesilver]

I can all but guarantee that you will be able to find the same or similar price on a 2006 venezia before your due date. The new 2007 line of pp's come out in 4-6 weeks and then the 06's will be big-time discounted! There are some changes to the new models so you might even like one of those better and decide to spring for it....
I think you did the right thing.

[GardenGirl]

Not to steal the stroller talk - because I actually enjoy learning more, but I have a question ...

With showers coming up pretty soon, who all has thought about what they are going to wear? Because it’s fall/winter I won’t be wearing a sleeveless dress. Unless of course I pair it with a button up sweater. I found a cute cowl neck pink sweater at the Gap online and might wear that with some cute jewelry and slacks to the shower at the office, but the friends and family shower is the one I’m having difficulty deciding on. And it's in 2 weeks, so if I'm going to order something online I need to do it soon. Anyone have any suggestions?

[NYLACHI]

Not to steal the stroller talk - because I actually enjoy learning more, but I have a question ...

With showers coming up pretty soon, who all has thought about what they are going to wear? Because it’s fall/winter I won’t be wearing a sleeveless dress. Unless of course I pair it with a button up sweater. I found a cute cowl neck pink sweater at the Gap online and might wear that with some cute jewelry and slacks to the shower at the office, but the friends and family shower is the one I’m having difficulty deciding on. And it's in 2 weeks, so if I'm going to order something online I need to do it soon. Anyone have any suggestions?

I was thinking of wearing a dress of some sort because I also have a big anniversary party to go to in late December and I thought I could kill two birds with one dress so to speak. I figured I'd just hit Mimi a week before...but seriously, it's your shower and you're pregnant. You could wear sweats and no one could touch you.

[jmvan74]

All of this stroller talk is making me want a new stroller just for the sake of having a new stroller! LOL!
I have a Combi, I can't even remember the make, that I bought as a lightweight stroller, but I'm not real fond of it. It doesn't handle well, like my zooper and it doesn't sit completely upright, which DS hates. Maybe I'll list it on ebay and buy something new. :D

[Alegna]

With showers coming up pretty soon, who all has thought about what they are going to wear?

I was planning on jeans and a t-shirt. I might go with long sleeve if it's super cold that day.

[NYLACHI]

I can all but guarantee that you will be able to find the same or similar price on a 2006 venezia before your due date. The new 2007 line of pp's come out in 4-6 weeks and then the 06's will be big-time discounted! There are some changes to the new models so you might even like one of those better and decide to spring for it....
I think you did the right thing.


sorry to beat a dead horse, but riddle me this: I had ordered (now cancelled) the Venezia stroller in Rubino (red.) from babydealz.com. DH just noticed on the Peg Perego Web site that the Venezia stroller ONLY is available in Toffee and Newport (06 models I assume). So how did babydealz get a model in 06 Rubino?

[GardenGirl]

NYLACHI - good question. I picked out the mint color at BRU. Haven't purchased it yet though. Maybe that is an old model. I need to go to the Peg website and check that out. I'm not a stroller techy though, I know hardly anything!!!

ETA - I just realized you said "Venezia". I registered for the P3. I still don't know the answer to your question though.

[zhannushka]

NYLACHI - I just did a quick search and Babydealz is not the only store selling Venezia Rubino 2006 model. Another one is BabyAge, for example... I don't know why they don't have it out on the Peg Perego website though...

[Alegna]

BTW Congrats on the house Zhanna. And good luck with selling yours. I know how nerve racking it can be.

[mommydearest]

BabyAge--according to people on the BabyBargains message boards, they are not reputable, either. There were 4 people complaining with no positives when someone posted about it recently. There is a CyberBaby Best and Worst Websites section there that people list experiences.

I have found the BabyBargains message boards to be a huge wealth of information. On the car seat boards, there are several CPS Techs and StrollerQueen frequents the stroller boards (as well as many others). If you are going to cloth diaper, the Baby Butts is a great resource. You can also get great sling information in Carriers. There isn't as much action on some of the other threads--nursery, feeding, etc. But if you have the time, its definitely worth it to ask your questions there.

[zhannushka]

NYLACHI - just because I was bored at work today... If you go on the Peg Perego website and look in the Italian section (not US), you'll see the Rubino stroller. It must not be for export to the US, but they do produce it.

[jmvan74]

BabyAge--according to people on the BabyBargains message boards, they are not reputable, either. There were 4 people complaining with no positives when someone posted about it recently.


That surprises me b/c I've used that site many, many times and have never had a problem. Huh. I think the problem w/ reviews is that most people only comment when they have a bad experience. When you have a bad experience you tell as many people as you can, but when you have a good experience, it's what you expected and don't necessarily share the news, ykwim.

[mommydearest]

That surprises me b/c I've used that site many, many times and have never had a problem. Huh. I think the problem w/ reviews is that most people only comment when they have a bad experience. When you have a bad experience you tell as many people as you can, but when you have a good experience, it's what you expected and don't necessarily share the news, ykwim.

Good to hear. Because all 4 people were FAR less than complimentary.

[zhannushka]

When you have a bad experience you tell as many people as you can, but when you have a good experience, it's what you expected and don't necessarily share the news, ykwim.
I totally agree with this, Julie!

Thank you for the congrats on the house, Angela!

We've started looking into babysitter/daycare options and man - it's EXPENSIVE!!! Having a live-in babysitter will cost us a minimum of $1,500/month and any reputable daycare center is about the same in our area... I am thinking that having a babysitter live-in with us or come in daily is better then having to bring a 6-week old baby to a daycare center in the middle of winter though... The thought of leaving a 6-week old baby with anyone (babysitter or daycare) is killing me, but there's absolutely no way that we'd be able to afford me being out of work without pay. :(

[DansGirl]

I told y'all I wouldn't be the best at keeping up with the group :o

---

zhannuska: Congrats on the house!! That's great!

RE: Daycare....we're going with an in-home provider who has 2 young kids of her own & will just have our baby as her only charge. She's not licensed but just wanted some extra income. It sorta' fell into our lap just talking to her one day. Keep your eyes/ears open for potential options that maybe you haven't thought of.

[NYLACHI]

Daycare is a FORTUNE by me too. I am not going to return to my job for a myriad of reasons, but I will have to find a new job when the baby is 6-7 months old or we'll be in the poor house. We surveyed our options when I was 12 weeks pg because, well, that's how I roll. The daycare we found that we loved was $1500/month. Ick. But the facility is really great-- they teach a second language at 3 years old, have a reading room, an art room, a great playground, enrichment programs like dance, etc. It's also a private kindergarten and the parents I spoke to said that the kids read about a year ahead of their peers not in the program.

It breaks my heart to have to use a daycare but we decided that this is the best way to go for our family. It's just sort of hard.

[jmvan74]

The thought of leaving a 6-week old baby with anyone (babysitter or daycare) is killing me, but there's absolutely no way that we'd be able to afford me being out of work without pay.


*HUGS*

Daycare: I'm just so shocked at the cost, ya know. If I had to pay that on my old teacher's salary, I'd have hardly any money left at the end of the month! Since I stay home, I never looked in to it and man...that's crazy. I'm so thankful that DH has a job that can support us.

[Alegna]

I put my plans for my maternity leave down in writing yesterday and submitted it to my supervisors. My plan is to take my 6 weeks sick time, then 6 weeks vacation (I've been saving up) and then come back to work on a modified schedule. As long as we can afford it I'd like to work afternoons only. I'll take the mornings off under FMLA. If I convert my 12 weeks FMLA to hours that should take me through to the end of the year.

They said they didn't have a problem with the plan. Now they've got to figure out how/if they're going to replace me for the time I'm gone.

I've arranged for daycare already. My cousins wife has run a daycare out of her house for the past 15 years. She's fully licensed and doesn't have any other infants right now. So mine will probably be the only one. I almost hate to say how much I'm being charged. It's only $85/week. I was expecting more, but was pleasently surprised. (But I'm sure location has a lot to do with prices. I'm in Central Illinois.)

And I called and got registered for the breastfeeding classes. They only had one scheduled. It's Nov 1&2. I figured it was better to take it early than not at all.

I keep getting all the little things marked off my list of things to do. But I still can't bring myself to work on the kiddos room. I'd better hurry up.....

[Lucy Van Pelt]

Daycare - YIKES! It's very expensive here in the Bay Area. Luckily, I am able to be a SAHM so I don't have to worry about it. Of course, now that I say that, I may, once again, be considered for a really good job that I will have to turn down. Where were all of these great jobs before I was pregnant???

I spent this weekend up at my parents house. I went to my SIL's baby shower on Saturday. It was really fun and everyone was taking pics of us together with our big preggo bellies. :p

I decided against the PP diaper bag. It's just a ridiculous thing to spend money on when there are other items more important. I looked at them over the weekend and they are nice, but not $160 nice. I told my friend to just get me a gift card or something and I will use the money towards my P3/car seat or something else I *really* need.

[Winter Biscuit]

Daycare -- like Alegna, I feel lucky that daycare isn't too outrageously expensive in my area (Michigan) but it IS going to be expensive once we have 2 children in daycare instead of one. I was just thinking the other day that we already put money aside into DD's college fund on a regular basis, but I think that once she is in school full-time and no longer goes to daycare, we'll continue to set aside the money - only we'll put it in her college fund instead of paying daycare.

I truly sympathize with those of you who are struggling with the thought of daycare. I could afford to stay home with our kids if I wanted to or needed to, but I choose to WOH for various reasons (which I won't get into here - all I need to say is that it's the right choice for our family and for me). Even though it is my choice to work, it was still a difficult decision and it was still hard to leave my DD the first few weeks. I can assure you from experience that it DOES get better/easier! There is a WOHM Support thread here on CC and the ladies there have all been there, done that and are a great source of info and support. I encourage anyone here that is returning to work (whether out of choice or necessity) to check that thread out for advice, tips, or just to vent and/or find sympathy. And I also encourage you to trust your gut when you choose your daycare provider. My DD has absolutely thrived at daycare (our daycare is a lot like the one NYLACHI described), but we also did a lot of research and took great care to choose the one that we felt would provide the best care for our DD. Nobody will care for your child as good as you will/can, but just have faith that there ARE some excellent providers out there who can and will do a great job supporting you as you raise your child. If you can't tell already, I feel very strongly that choosing who will care for your child when you are at work is such an important decision and shouldn't be taken lightly (not that any of you would - I think you know what I mean :))

[lindzgirl]

Hey Everyone~

It has been awhile since I have posted. Good luck to everyone with finding good care. I feel fortunate that I get to stay home with her. Of course I might end up working from home in the coming year, don't know for sure yet.

I failed my one hour glucose test and so went in yesterday to take the horrible 3 hour one. I have needle phobia and so I dread these sort of things. Still waiting for the results.

So I have been reading about everyones picks on strollers and carseats. Does anyone have any experience with Graco? I am wondering because my DH and I have a Graco travel system picked out and I am pretty sure we will go with that one. It is the Quattro Tour Travel system. The one I really liked was on the BRU website and I wished that I would have written it down because now it isn't there. I have looked all over the place and can't find anything like it. Here is the link to the Graco if anyone wants to have a look.
Thanks for your help!

http://store.babycenter.com/product/gear/carseats/travel_systems/8773?intcmp=&stage=all

[mommydearest]

Quattro: I have a Quattro and it is awesome except for one thing--the weight. The basket it HUGE though and my 3 year old nephew still has lots of room to grow in it. Quattros push much better than any of the other Gracos. Have you seen it in person and lifted it folded up high enough to get it into your trunk? I had to get something else for in the car because it is so big and heavy. It weighs 28 lbs. We use it for walks in the neighborhood, but leave it in the garage and have a Zooper (and now a P3) for in the car.

Daycare We are really lucky that my mom will watch the baby from April-June, and I am off the month of July. We are going to re-evaluate then. I did some looking and no one I work who has daycare close to the school likes their providers (I teach in the ghetto, so this is understandable), and there is only one center near my home that is decent--$250 a week. I'm a teacher, so that is a big chunk of my check right there. So, hopefully grandma will continue babysitting.

Rant for the day:
So I ordered a pink P3 last week after wanting it forever. No place
around here has them in stock, so I got it from Albees on sale.
Great...no issues.

But, when it came, the side pieces that say Peg Perego are Mary Kay
pink. One Peg's website, and on Albee's, they are silver. Every
picture I've ever seen has them as silver. I like the silver. I hate
the pink. It looks to plastic-y to me.

So, I emailed them and asked if they would send me the silver ones,
and the response was a tense--for $14.95, you can order them on our
website. Not what I wanted to hear, but I didn't want to spend $15
more and was just going to have to deal with it.

Well, DH was ticked off that this was their response and called them up last night. He explained the situation and the person on the other end wasn't very
helpful. Russ basically told them that when you pay $300 for a stroller, you are paying for how it looks or you would buy a cheapo stroller and that if they didn't make mine match their website, he would refer them to the
Better Business Bureau. Ouch. To make a long story short, they are
sending me two silver pieces free sometime in December (they are on
backorder now). So, they WILL send you silver ones if you complain loudly enough, especially if your husband gets mad. Just don't expect them to care
if you only email.



:) Kristen

[wine_o_girlie]

Y'all, can I be totally self-centered for a moment and just say I had the best preggo day yesterday?!? :) Yesterday was just a great day that really made it seem like our sweet little guy is going to be here soon and we are so excited for it!

It all started yesterday when my dad called to tell me he bought one of the Britax car seats (Boulevard) that we registered for and could I take it off the registry? So, I go into our registry to take it off since I guess he didn't know how to do that and I see that a crapload of big stuff had been purchased. Both carseats, the co-sleeper, the Phil & Ted's E3 stroller, both pack n plays, the swing, etc., etc., etc. :eek: I was floored and so excited.

Then, I get home from work and one of the car seats and the co-sleeper are actually on my porch. It was the U of Maryland Britax car seat that my husband had registered for. The thing is a tank and I can see why it's safety ratings are so good. I felt really good about that choice.

Next, I went inside and saw a note from our handyman. I knew he was coming sometime this week to put up the chair rail for the nursery but I wasn't sure exactly when. He had been there and put up the chair rail and the bamboo blinds. There are some touch-ups to do but very minor. Everything looks so, so cute and we are thrilled and so happy we decided to be different and go with the multiple colors in the room below the chair rail!

Last, I check the messages and the dresser is being delivered this Saturday! Holy wow, there will be furniture in the nursery this weekend. :)

Anyway, this is completely self-centered post but I was just so excited yesterday I had to share. I cannot believe we are at the point where showers are coming up, nurseries are starting to come together, babies are growing, etc. I hope everyone is having a great day!

My showers are Nov. 4th and 12th and my next doctor's appointment is November 15th.

I am doing the GTT sometime this week or next. Is anyone else doing the "alternate" version of the GTT with fruit juice/piece of fruit versus the Glucola? I am and I just wondered if anyone else was doing that or not.

[mommydearest]

Wine-o Hooray! That is sooooooo cool!!!!!!!! I'm excited for you!

[Winter Biscuit]

mommydearest: I'll have to remember not to make your DH mad ;) That's awesome that they are going to give you what you wanted, but it's too bad you had to deal with that at all.

wine-o: woohoo for great preggo days! :D I'm doing the GTT this week too - on Friday morning to be exact. I'm just hoping I am having a "good" day on Friday because the last thing I want to do is worry about puking after drinking the orange drink and having to do it all over again. :( (The good news is that my morning sickness is SLOWLY starting to subside - I only get sick a few days a week now as opposed to every day! I'm just hoping Friday isn't one of the few days my body decides to be sick!!) I have never heard of the "alternate" version of the GTT with fruit juice/piece until you posted. Let us know how that goes!

Prenatal massage -- I'm about to book an hour-long prenatal massage and I cannot wait. I want one, I need one and, for crying out loud, I'm pregnant and DESERVE one! :) :D Anyone else??

[Alegna]

wine - I'm excited for you too. Don't you just love when a plan comes together? :)

I think my friends are conspiring against me. I keep looking at my registery but nothing is getting bought. My shower is the 18th! I guess I just have a lot of procrastinators. I can't complain too much, I'm the same way. I've been known to go to the store on the way to the shower.

I get a little more excited every time I cross one more thing off my list of things to do. Daycare, maternity leave, classes, insurance, etc. The past 27 weeks sure seem to have gone by quickly.

My GTT is Friday. I've got the orange drink. I've never heard of the alternative. I actually just checked my sugar with DH's meter. I last ate at 11:30am and my sugar is now 83. And lunch included mashed potatoes, carrots and a chocolate chip cookie. I might check it again after dinner. Maybe closer to an hour after to get a better idea. I'm not looking forward to the test. Besides the horrid drink I keep hearing about, my doctors office is bad at drawing my blood. I hope they can get a good stick and get what they need on the first try. I don't really think I'll be in the mood to act as a pin cushion.

[Alegna]

No massage for me. But I do have a gift certificate for a mani/pedi. I was thinking I might schedule that right before my shower. Or maybe closer to Christmas. I don't know. :rolleyes:

[GardenGirl]

Wine-o - not self centered at all. You should be so excited to have the ball rolling.

I've been calling my answering machine at home every day this week checking to see if I have a message from the bedding company/boutique. Tomorrow it will be exactly 6 weeks since I ordered it and she said it takes 4-6 weeks. I called home today and I have a message (it only rang twice, that's how I know). But my PIN number isn't working and I can't pick it up. Argh. It's killing me sitting here waiting at work thinking I could be picking up my bedding!!! Of course, I'll probably get home and it will be a political candidate calling to tell me to vote early. I've received about 3 of those this week alone!

[lindzgirl]

Thanks Mommydearest for the help. My hubby and I went and tried out strollers this weekend and the quattro was our favorite. The weight dosen't really bug me but we will see later on.

I passed my Glucose test. Yay I am so relieved! Glad to hear that everyone is having fun getting their stuff ready. Wine-O ~ That is so cool that you had such a great day. Alegna~ I will be thinking of you on Friday. I dreaded the test both times but it is such a relief when it is over at last.

[NYLACHI]

Prenatal massage: I had my very last pilates session this week. :( I have been going for YEARS and I'll really miss seeing my trainer, but I really can't do much anymore that justifies the expense. However, this now frees up some money for massages! My doula is actually a massage therapist and will come to my house for one anytime for $40-- much better than the $100++ that they charge at salons. I plan to have quite a few because my back is really starting to get wacked out.

Our nursery furniture is being delivered tomorrow! It's from Penny's so they'll just dump the boxes off in the living room, but we should have a furnished nursery in the next few weeks. It's very exciting. I know I'll feel better after the shower and the nursery is set up.

We're going to Disneyworld for a week on Saturday! We've been planning this trip for 11 months so I'm so excited I could pass out. I wish we went about 3 weeks ago however because I'm feeling superpregnant all of a sudden and I'm worried about all that walking, but we go every year so it isn't like we'll have to go commando-style. I can't wait to go swimming in 80 degree weather!

Oh, and we also got our very first baby gift yesterday-- the peg perego SIP carseat! From my mom. Things are really happening now...

(talk about a self-centered post!)

[GardenGirl]

I had my doctors appt this morning. She was running behind as usual. Which I don't really mind, because I know one day (soon) I'll be in labor at the hospital and she'll be running late for appointments because of me. BUT - because I wait so patiently, I would think that she would at least calm down and not speed in and speed out of my appt. She was like a whirling dervish in the exam room. I tried to get her to stop for a second and listen to my concern about my sciatic nerve - it's really starting to bother me. I finally told her, I"'m not complaining to complain. Do you have any suggestions?" She said to lay on my left side and put a heating pad on my right hip. Then I tried to ask her what the position of the baby was because I don't know where any of my organs are anymore. So when I have a pain in my upper left side I want to know if it's just the baby pressing on something or if it's my body. She was practically out the door when she said it won't do any good to find out the position of the baby now because he/she will move when I walk out of the office. Whatever. I was so ticked. I got maybe 90 seconds of her and I waited almost 90 minutes. It's ridiculous. She won't sit down long enough for me to ask a question. I'm so frustrated. I keep telling myself, "this is just the stage Tera." Right now it's all heartbeat check, weight check, urine sample, and blood pressure. Then right back out the door you came in. I keep coming back because I know eventually we'll have to talk about something substantial and then I'll get her full attention. But I don't know how much more of this I can take. I will be so mad if we get up to 39 weeks and we still haven't talked about anything. I should have changed doctors at 14 weeks when I didn't get the warm fuzzies from the start. But I told myself then, "Oh Tera, it's just the stage. There's nothing to talk about now."

I can say without a doubt - this doctor will NOT be delivering my second child.

That said, the baby had a nice strong heartbeat today. It was 158. Funny thing was when the nurse (who does everything but measure me by the way) was trying to find the h/b with the Doppler. The baby obviously didn't like it because it was kicking up a storm and moving all around trying to get away from it. It took her awhile to get the actual count because it wouldn't hold still. She could hear it, but not long enough to count. And of course that made me chuckle a few times which threw off the count. That is the best (and only good part actually) of my doctors appointments.

Oh by the way - I said yesterday I thought I'd have a message about my bedding. Well I didn't. It wasn't the boutique, but it wasn't a political call either. Wrong number. Which means my bedding isn't in and I'm getting a little frustrated. It's been 6 weeks on the dot and she said it never really takes that long. So I called this morning and they said they'd check on it and call me back. That bedding better be in before next Friday when my family comes for the shower. They all want to see it. I'll be so ticked off. At least I have the pillow, but it's not the same.

Okay, that's enough b!tching and moaning. Glad to hear you all are having some great days. I'll be there shortly!!!

Oh and my next appointment is Nov 9th (Yes, I'm on 2 week appts - crazy huh!)

[Alegna]

Tera - sorry your doctor seems to busy to even talk to you. That would be very annoying.

I've had pretty good luck at my office. Other than them changing my appointments at the beginning. I've been making my appointments as early as possible though. I'd like to think they won't be too far behind that early in the morning. I would be REALLY annoyed if I had to wait 90 minutes.:eek:

[zhannushka]

wine_o_girlie - YAY for things moving along and having great days!!! :D

Winter Biscuit - Have a great massage! I've been meaning to book one for weeks and keep forgetting... :rolleyes:

Angela - Good luck with your GTT tomorrow!!!

lindzgirl - Congratulations on passing the GTT!!! :)

NYLACHI - Ohhh, how exciting about your furniture being delivered tomorrow!!! And - have an awesome time in Disneyworld!!! :D

Tera, I totally hear you on the doctor's office issues... I'm kind of having the same issues with mine, even though I must say - I never had to wait for 90 minutes yet! (but I did for about 50 minutes once...) It also really annoys me that I constantly feel that my doctor is too busy to listen to what I have to say during my appointment. My appointments have been about 5 minutes long each time, and each time I get the vibe that she just wants to run out of the room ASAP... :(

I can't remember now whether I ever updated you ladies on this - we're out of attorney review and are supposed to close at the end of November!!! I'm so excited, I can hardly contain myself... By then, we should have the crib delivered to us and I'll be able to at least have SOMETHING in the nursery before the baby comes!!! :) We decided to paint the nursery baby blue (I know it's not very unique, but it's just such a soothing color and I think it will look really good with all the furniture we've picked out...)

[jmvan74]

Wine O: How exciting! Glad things are going so well for you.

Angela; Good luck on your GTT. Mine is next week. Don't worry, things will fly off your registry soon.;)

Winter Biscuit: Have fun at your massage! Sounds relaxing. I had a nice long spa pedicure 2 weeks ago and just sitting in the massage chair w/ my feet soaking was so nice.

Lindsey: Hooray for passing the GTT!

NYLACHI: So exciting that your furniture is coming! Have fun in Disney!

Tera: Sorry your OB has no bedside manner. My last DR. was like that, so I always scheduled my appts w/ the nurse practioner b/c she was so nice. I figured all the DR was going to do was "catch" the baby, and the nurses would do the rest. It's really quite rude that she isn't taking the time to address your concerns. :(

Zhanna:Yippee! A closing date!

Not too much going on here. I'm so tired since sleep is barely an option these days. I'm absolutely huge! I need to update my belly shot. I actually had to go out and by larger clothes this week. So annoying since I will wear them for 2 months and then never again! :rolleyes:

[robyn]

I should have changed doctors at 14 weeks when I didn't get the warm fuzzies from the start. But I told myself then, "Oh Tera, it's just the stage. There's nothing to talk about now."

I can say without a doubt - this doctor will NOT be delivering my second child.
[/COLOR]

I feel the same way about my Dr. I have even entertained the idea of still switching at this point. It's not like she seems all that invested in me anyway, and I've had such a normal pregnancy so far that it wouldn't be too hard for someone else to pick me up. Probably a dumb idea, though. :( Sorry your bedding hasn't come in ... how frustrating!

Zhanna - congrats on setting a closing time. That's so exciting and you guys will be so happy to have some time to get settled before the baby comes.

NYLACHI - Have fun at Disney. "I'm feeling superpregnant all of a sudden" - I've been feeling the same way lately!

----

Things I'd like to whine about:
* I have been cranky, cranky, cranky lately. I guess it has to do with the fact that I suddenly feel like I no longer look "cute pregnant" and I suddenly hit that "akward pregnant" stage. Isn't it supposed to come later?
* I had the grand plan of sewing my own crib bedding. Well I sewed 3/4ths of the bumper and it looks like crap. :( I used the batting that is made especially for bumpers but the stuff is so thin ... and I even doubled it. So today I had to go buy new padding and I'm going to start over.

Good things:
* My mom and I are going to look at strollers on Saturday so hopefully I'll get that nailed down once and for all.
* I found a Hotsling on super-duper sale at babycenter.com and it arrived today and I am wearing it around the house with one of my childhood dolls tucked inside. :D
* I also ordered a nursing bra on sale from babycenter.com ... I have that on and I am endlessly amused at how you can just pop out a boob so easily. :D

Hope everyone is getting good results from their GTT tests!

[zhannushka]

Julie - I'm sorry that you haven't been getting any sleep lately... :(

Robyn - good luck with stroller-shopping on Saturday!!! I have bought some nursing bras already as well - aren't they amazing? :p

I forgot to mention that I was approved to leave work early (woohoo!!!) and my last day will be December 15th - I truly CANNOT WAIT!!! :D

[NYLACHI]

Tera: I fired TWO OBs before I found a practice I liked. It's never too late. I won't get into the reasons now, but I LOVE my midwife practice now. Will you stick it out with her or look for a more attentive doc?

Zhanna-- that's great about your place. How exciting! And I think baby blue is a great choice. Classic never goes out of style. We put in a baby blue carpet so we're on the same page.

Jmvan-- I'm huge too. I had to buy two new pairs of cargo pants with full panels today because I give up on the "dainty maternity" clothes. You're not alone! I used to say that I was "all baby" but now I feel a layer of fat developing EVERYWHERE-- my back, my upper arms, my calves. Oh well. I had a super cute second trimester. I'm sure you're in better shape than I am in!

Robyn: Isn't it weird how we spend all our lives avoiding the popping boobs, and then all of a sudden they have a purpose? A reason to pop out? And there are SPECIALLY MADE CLOTHING FOR THIS PURPOSE? So weird.

Speaking of which, does anyone know where to buy those camis that have the nursing flaps?

[jmvan74]

Robyn: I switched OB's at my 30 week appt. last pg. (I moved, so I had, to) It wasn't a big deal. Some DR's won't take on new patients that late in the game, so make sure you look around soon if you want a change. ;)
"cute pregnant" has definitely left the building here! LOL! I loved my hotsling, I should start looking for a new one.

Zhanna: That's great news! That should give you a little bit of time to adjust to your new home before the little man arrives.;)

NYLACHI: I feel the same way. I just know I am expanding in all new directions, now. I also broke down and bought full panel. I never needed those last time. boo. You can get nursing tanks at Motherhood and Target carries them, too. At target you might have to search them out...I can't even remember what section they were in. I'll have to check b/c I want some, too.

Nursing bras: I actually hate all of the ones I wore w/ DS, so i need to get some new ones. I want to get a coupld of bravados. They're pricey, but I've heard they are so comfortable. I'll probably get 2 of those and a bunch of the nursing tanks to wear as "bras".

I just realized I've entered the 3rd trimester! 27w 1D

[Winter Biscuit]

Isn't it weird how we spend all our lives avoiding the popping boobs, and then all of a sudden they have a purpose? A reason to pop out? And there are SPECIALLY MADE CLOTHING FOR THIS PURPOSE? So weird.

LOL! Too funny - but very true! I'm not really looking forward to wearing ugly nursing bras again, but the ones I used with DD were quite comfortable and SO easy to use.

Zhanna - congrats on setting a closing date! And for scheduling your last day of work! Woohoo!

GardenGirl -- sorry to hear your OB barely gave you the time of the day. I agree that it's not too late to switch doctors. Hope your bedding comes in soon - I'm sure it will! I know how stressful it is to expect something (especially a baby-related item) that you have ordered by the deadline and to be so irritated when the deadline comes and goes. I posted in an earlier thread that our nursery furniture was supposed to take 8 to 12 weeks to come in. They assured us that it usually takes 8-10 weeks, but at the VERY latest, it'd be in within 12 weeks. Well, we finally got our crib 24 weeks after we ordered it. That is 6 MONTHS! I was absolutely livid. My DD was over 2 months old when we finally got the crib.

NYLACHI - have a fabulous vacation!! That is so awesome that your doula will come to your house to give you a massage. And for only $40?! Wow! I'm with you - my back is suffering too. I've heard so many people talk about how their lower back aches, but for me all the knots and tension is in my upper back.

robyn -- I feel like I am at the "awkward pregnant" stage too. Yesterday we took my DD to a Halloween party at DH's work and we did a lot of walking around the building. I was feeling a lot of pressure "down there" and there were a few times when I had to try so hard NOT to waddle, but I just couldn't help it. I thought the same thing - "Isn't this supposed to happen LATER?" I'm not quite ready for the late pregnancy awkwardness!

Hi to everyone else I have missed. Hope everyone is doing well and has a great weekend!

I had my glucose test this morning. It wasn't so bad at all. In fact, I would even say that the glucola tasted better than it did when I took the GTT during my first pregnancy 3 years ago. Not that I was going to ask for a refill when I was done drinking it ;) but at least I didn't wince or feel nauseous after swallowing it. I even had a choice of orange glucola or lemon-lime. I played it safe and stuck with the orange.

[Alegna]

Call me cushion.... as in pin cushion. :( The people at the doctors office have the worst luck trying to get my blood. She dug around in my left arm for a while and then went to get someone else. The 2nd lady had me lay down with my arm hanging off the exam table. She was finally able to get it. 4 vials of blood and two very sore arms later I'm done!

The orange drink wasn't as bad as I was expecting. But then again, I like orange soda.

Baby doesn't like the dopplar. It kept moving away. Took the nurse over 10 minutes to get a good reading on the heartbeat. :p

I've gained 2 pounds. It's kind of nice to actually going up again.

BP and measurements were fine.

I'm on the two week rotation now.... next appointment 11/10

[Winter Biscuit]

Alegna - ugh! :( Sorry you had to go through that. When I had my blood drawn at the beginning of my pregnancy, I had the WORST phlebotomist (sp?) She poked her needle in my arm 3 different times and couldn't get it into the vein. She looked really young so I assumed she was inexperienced. I finally asked her to get someone else to help, and her manager was able to get the needle in on her first try. :rolleyes: I don't mind getting blood drawn - don't LIKE it, but don't mind it. But I DO mind when people are stabbing around with a needle inside my arm trying unsuccessfully to find a vein. Hopefully you'll get good results from today's test and you'll be done with needles for the rest of the pregnancy (unless you need them during L&D for any reason)!! :)

[jmvan74]

WB and Angela: I'm glad you both enjoyed your glucola! LOL!

Angela: Sorry about all of the needle sticks. Uggh. I hate getting blood drawn. Luckily, I have easily accessible veins. ick. I have my test next week. Yippeee.:rolleyes:

Tera: Did you find out about your bedding?

[Alegna]

How are you ladies handeling painting the babies room? I'm hearing mixed views on if it's ok to paint while pregnant. Is it just a first trimester thing? I'll have the windows open and fan blowing out. Should that be ok or should I get someone else to paint for me?

[Lucy Van Pelt]

DH did most of the painting in the nursery. When I help, I wear a respirator so I don't inhale the fumes. It's kinda a pain, but you gotta do what you gotta do!

Mine looks kinda like this (http://www.homedepot.com/cmc_upload/HDUS/EN_US/asset/images/eplus/129318_4.jpg).

[jmvan74]

Paint:DH painted the nursery, but I was in the house, so I could still smell the fumes. I'm pretty sure it's safe to paint, unles you're using lead based paint! :p I think the bigger concern is that your more at risk for back injury and soreness. Plus, you shouldn't be climbing up ladders, ya know.;) I wish I could remember where I read that info.

[jmvan74]

The nursery is painted and the crib is put together! Yippee! DH and I were sitting in there and it really hit us that #2 is going to be here very soon! Wow! I also hung the valance, but I have to wait until we have a mattress in the crib before I can add the bedding. Crazy!:eek:

Anyone else experiecing Braxton Hicks, already? Man, they've been sneaking up on me. I don't remember them being so uncomfortable the first time around.

I broke down and bought some new clothes this week. Just a few pairs of jeans and some long sleeve t-shirts. Can't go out naked. :D

[Lucy Van Pelt]

We pretty much finished painting the nursery too!! The only thing left was the door and some minor touch ups on the pink and brown that got marked up when we installed the chair rail. I love the chair rail, but it was kinda a pain to install! Here (http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8AcuWTNyzbtGbj) are some pics!

On the last picture, there isn't a chair rail, just a white stripe. The room has a pocket door so we can't nail anything to that part of the wall. I wasn't sure how it would turn out with the white stripe, but it looks pretty darn good, if I say so myself! Kudos to Brad for doing such a great job!!

We still need to paint the pocket door which is almost done. After that, we can assemble the furniture. I can't wait to get that done and actually have a nursery instead of an empty room!

Oh yeah - funny story...my brother and SIL are due at the end of November. My mom passed along the story that they assembled their crib in the living room. They were pushing it into the nursery and, OF COURSE, it didn't fit!! They had to take it all apart and then reasemble it IN the nursery. I can just picture them trying to fit the crib through the doorway...:p Ha ha ha!!

[Winter Biscuit]

Yay for nurseries getting painted and nearing completion! :) I guess I can say DH and I made some Nugget progress this weekend, too. We actually acknowledged that we need to order some window treatment for Nugget's room, and we discussed names. Hey, some progress is better than NONE, right? ;)

Braxton Hicks -- I've been getting them for a while. With my first pregnancy, I almost never noticed I was having them unless I happened to touch my belly at the right moment and could feel it all tensed up. This time around, I am definitely aware of them but only a few have been slightly uncomfortable.

jmvan74 - I haven't bought any more new maternity clothes yet, but it won't be long now. I just don't think I'll make it to January without a few new things. Like you said, we can't walk around naked! I am pretty sure this will be the last child that DH and I TTC (unless there is an 'oops' down the road ;)) so I just hate the thought of spending money on something I'll only wear for a few months. I know I can re-sell stuff on eBay or pass it on to friends or whatever, but it just bugs me to think of buying new stuff this late in the game. All I can say is I'm REALLY hoping the winter coats I have will work until this kid comes...I'll be so irritated if I need to buy a new winter coat!

[ButterflyJen]

Hi all - sorry I haven't been by much! I've been reading along, just not posting much. Kind of in a "no, I'm not really in the 3rd trimester" state of denial here. ;)

As far back as I can see:

Tera: here's my take on the whole OB situation. If your current OB is so busy she can't spare time to even talk to you for 30 seconds about what's bothering you, it's not going to bother her, or even affect her, if you leave and go to a different OB/midwife. I know, switching sucks at this point in the pregnancy, but the most important thing is being comfortable with your OB. Is there anyone you can ask for recommendations? Anywhere you can check? I hope so! You don't need that kind of stress, you need support, and that's half of what your appointments are really for (not just for checking to see if you're growing, etc).

Robyn - that goes for you too. :) It's not a dumb idea; this person is going to deliver your child. If you're not comfortable with them, do you really want them around at that precise moment in your life? (I say as I didn't even have my OB deliver DD...they had a rotating practice where DD was born)

BH contrax - yup. and BOY are they strong ones. I swear, my entire stomach goes rock-hard for a minute or so and then relaxes. I don't remember them being this strong with DD!! Yipes! But this way I can practice my breathing. HA!

Yay for nursery progress from everyone! That's such a great feeling, isn't it!

Not much really going on here! Just getting stuff done and together, little by little. We borrowed a dresser from a friend for Peanut's room (leaving DD's with her, since it's old and crappy and doesn't go with anything anyway, LOL) and as soon as DD lets me (read: quits throwing terrible 2 fits), we'll go to Target and pick up a few assorted things that we'll need to have, like another Snugride base and some more diapers. The stockpile of diapers is growing....now I just need to get more breast pads. :)

Doctor's appt. tomorrow as well as my glucose test. MMMM yummy, glucola here I come. ACK! Maybe it won't be too bad...

[mommydearest]

Nurseries--The pictures are too cute. Hooray! I love Lucy's pink and brown combo.

BH--These aren't fun and they really scared me the first couple of times. So far, they have stayed below my belly button, but I am still caught off guard every time.

OBs--Good luck to those with issues. I am definitely picking someone else next time because mine is a really busy practice. While I get every question answered and they don't rush you, it also means they don't run on schedule very much. And...appointments are only from 9-4:15. I have to take time off work for every appointment. Next time, I want someone with evening hours. I had 25 sick days saved up, but since I have to use a half day for every appointment, they are going away fast.

New Clothes--I hit the consignment shops last week for some new tops. I am so sick of the ones I have, and most of them were summer/early fall with 3/4 sleeves. A lot of the earlier tops don't fit too well any more. My mom gave me a bunch of her sweaters to borrow for work (she's about 6 inches taller than me, so she wears bigger stuff). Luckily between my khaki pants and black pants, you can do a lot of mixing and matching. But I miss my non-preggo clothes, esp. the sweaters.

[Alegna]

My closet is out of control :eek: I really need to sort through stuff and get rid of a bunch of clothes that I don't wear any more. But who has time for that? I've been slowly sorting them as I get out more winter clothes. Some stuff I know I won't be able to wear this winter. I'm not wanting to get rid of any summer stuff yet since I don't really know what size I'll be next summer. DH is going to blow a gasket if I don't do something with the piles of clothes I have stacked all over the bedroom. :)

I still haven't started working on the kiddos room. But I did manage to go pick up the crib from my SILs house. One more thing to cross off the list. I felt kind of bad. The girls were using the crib as storage for their dolls and stuffed animals. Emptying it made their room look like a tornado had hit. (Note to self: DO NOT buy those kids any more toys!) We probably could have fit the changing table in the Jeep too but they're using it as a shelf for board games and stuff. I didn't want to add that to mess. I'll get it some other time.

The crib is apparently one that DH bought for his sister many years ago. It's made the rounds through both sisters. It's still in really good shape. It's got a few scratches here and there. I guess I won't feel bad when my kid scratches it huh? :) The only thing I'm slightly dissapointed in is the drop side. It's got the two hand latch deal. I was hoping for the one handed/knee type. Oh well. Beggers can't be choosers. It will work.

[ButterflyJen]

Had my appt. today. I did the glucose test; that orange drink wasn't anywhere near as bad as I was expecting. Thankfully they keep it in the fridge at the lab! Woo hoo! Haven't heard anything yet, and if I don't by the end of the day, it's a good thing. :)

Peanut's heartbeat is in the low 140s. I'm up 15-1/2 lbs now. Didn't gain 7 lbs. this month, yay!! :)

He finally started measuring my uterus (was wondering when that starts!) and I'm measuring 1cm behind. He's not at all worried so I'm not either. He said if I get to 2cm behind, we'll do another ultrasound. Gee DARN, huh? Though I'm not wishing for another...peanut, I guess. ;) Maybe I should have come up with a different nickname for this kid!!

I asked him about some achiness I'm having in my right hip/thighbone. He said Tylenol and heating pads. I had other questions, but utterly forgot to ask them, because I was in a rush to get out the door and forgot my list. Duh. Oh well, longer list next time!

That's it for that appt. Next one is the Friday before Thanksgiving - November 17th. Yipes, that's coming up FAST!!

[jmvan74]

Ginger: The paint looks great! I can't wait to see it when all the furniture is in. ;)

WB: I wasn't too thrilled about buying more clothes since we don't plan on having anymore. :) I'm sure they'll get use else where when I'm done. ;) Luckily, I have a winter coat from my previous pg. It'll work.

Jen: I really need to start buying diapers and breast pads, too. Glad your appt well.

Angela: That is too funny that picking up the furniture is making a mess in your neices room! LOL! We almost got my nephew's crib and it had the same dropside, but luckily, it was missing parts, so my parents sprung for a new one. :p

I have my GTT on Wednesday. I really hope I pass!

[Lucy Van Pelt]

Well, I *officially* passed my glucose test. I figured I had becuase I hadn't heard anything from the doctor, but I got a letter with my results and everything was in the normal range. Yippee!!

I have been feeling more BH contactions. It took me by surprise when my belly felt weird and it was so hard when I touched it. I've felt a few of them over the past couple of days.

I am still having a terrible time getting sleep. I am so congested and it makes me wake up 4-5 times every night because I can't breathe. After several nights on decongestants and covering myself in Vicks vapo rub every night, I finally went and bought a vaporizer today. I hope it helps because if it doesn't, I don't know what else to try. :confused:

Oh yeah - quick question: Anyone know where I can buy replacement cushions or cushion covers for a Dutailier glider? My friend gave me her glider and it's really nice, but the cushions are denim blue and they completely clash with the nursery decor. I've looked a little online, but can't seem to find what I am looking for.

[robyn]

Ginger - Sorry to hear about your congestion. I have a cold and have been experiencing the same thing so I bought a vaporizor as well, but mine is terrible. I even sprung for the "nice" one, but I don't feel like it's doing anything - it just feels like a fan blowing. I'm going to return mine and get something different, so I'd be curious to hear what you got and if it works for you or not.

Angela - congrats on getting the crib. It helps to make the room seem so much closer to having an actual baby in it! :)

Butterflyjen - Hope the GTT comes out okay!

Braxton Hicks - I don't know if I've felt this or not. I've had the "hard belly" thing a couple of times, but it didn't really feel like a contraction. Who knows!

Today I had to go to the hospital to get my Rhogam shot. I had not had a shot in a long time, but it wasn't as bad as I was expecting.

I've been experiencing a strange feeling lately - it feels almost like my ribs are being compressed on the right side of my back and chest. It's not particularly painful, per se, but it's pretty uncomfortable. Anyone ever feel anything similar?

[magdesilver]

Ginger,
Are the cushions in good condition? Do you know what glider model you have? I am asking because I am about to order replacement cushions for my glider and ottoman and I want denim ones. I have really nice light green ones (like a pear green, it was a custom fabric that I bought and sent to dutailier originally) that match my DD's nursery but they don't go with the boy bedding we are using. So maybe if yours are in good condition we can swap if our gliders are the same! Otherwise, the best price I've found (and I've called/looked everywhere) is $225 for glider and ottoman from rocking-chairs.com .
Can you take a pic and post/email it to me to see if we have the same glider/ottoman so the cushions might fit?

[jmvan74]

Ginger: Congrats on passing the GTT! Sorry about the congestion. My congestion isn't too bad, but I've been having trouble breathing in general.

Robyn: Sounds like BH to me. ;) I'm not sure about the compression feeling. I often feel like my chest is being compressed which makes breathing difficult. I plan on bringing it up to my DR, just to make sure it's all normal.

I took a few pics of the nursery so far. The room is so small. I feel bad b/c Collin's room is so much bigger than Brady's.

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b44/zoecat52/IMG_0459.jpg
Looking in from the door.


http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b44/zoecat52/IMG_0458.jpg

I wish the paint showed up better. It's such a bright, cheery room. :)

[wine_o_girlie]

Oh my Goodness you guys, the scariest thing happened to me last night. Has anyone else ever had this?

I suddenly woke up at 3 a.m. and absolutely could not breathe because I was choking on something that felt like fire in my throat. I am assuming that is what heartburn is (I've never had it before). :mad: My husband says I was coughing (I don't remember that) but somehow I do remember leaping out of bed and running to our bathroom and I was coughing and choking and gagging. Finally I could breathe but my throat was totally raw and it seriously felt like there was a path of fire from the back of my throat down to my chest. I am guessing that I somehow turned onto my back and was sleeping pretty flat and that's what caused the heartburn/acid reflux. My poor husband was so freaked out. I only slept for about an hour after that because I was afraid to lay down - I am now propped up on like 3 pillows. :confused:

I also ate dinner very late because my husband and I own a business and he was working there last night until almost 9. We were eating at 9:30 and I went to bed at 10:30 or 11. I am thinking I can no longer eat that late but it makes me so sad because that means like 4 nights a week I will be eating dinner by myself. :( I am so sad. I am going to pick up some Zantac today and see if that helps.

Anyone else have any tips? I have had no issues with anything this whole pregnancy but now I think it's starting to catch up with me. :rolleyes:

[jmvan74]

wine o: Sounds like pretty severe reflux. Ickk. I have had some mild reflux depending on what I eat and it does feel like your throat is on fire. If I feel like it is going to be an issue, I'll pop some tums before bed. If I know that what i'm about to eat will cause HB, I'll take tums before I even eat. :p

[Lucy Van Pelt]

Wineo - I've had that happen once or twice. It was pretty scary and gross! I think it was becuase I ate later inthe day so I have been trying to not eat anything after 8-9 or so.

magdesilver - The glider is a Dutailier 10088. The cushions are in decent shape - they just need to be washed. I mentioned that I wanted new cushions to Dh and he started to flip out...:rolleyes: He thinks the denim is fine and I can't justify spending the $200+ on new ones. I'll have to see ifmy mom can make some kind of covers or something so they match the nursery better.

I just don't understand DH. This is our first child. He just doesn't "get" that I want nice things for her. It seems everytime I bring something up regarding the decor, I am being materialistic and shallow - that I am just trying to "impress my friends and 'outdo' my SIL". It's very upsetting.

[zhannushka]

Ginger - YAY for officially passing the GTT!!! :D I'm sorry about your DH not understanding that you want only the best for the baby... It took me a while to explain to my DH why I wanted a particular stroller or crib - I've learned a new trick of "blaming" everything on safety for the baby - once I tell him it's the SAFEST we can get, he can't argue with me anymore...

Robyn - I've been feeling compression in my ribs for the past week or so... Like, when I'm sitting down, I have to make sure that I am sitting with my back totally straight, otherwise - I feel like my ribs are going to puncture my chest or something... (I hope this makes some sense!)

wine_o_girlie - Oh man, that experience sounds very scary! I've had tons of heartburn throughout the pregnancy, some days worse then others, but never anything that extreme!!! Mylanta is what really helps me...

Julie and Ginger - I love both of your nurseries!!! I can't wait until we close on the new house and can start painting! :)

Nothing much going on with me... I did start showing (finally!) sometime in the past few weeks - all of a sudden everyone notices that... (at work, friends, etc.) As I mentioned before - I've been feeling my ribs pressing against my chest lately, especially when I'm sitting down. I'm also getting lots of backache - getting up in the morning now takes me about 10 minutes... I've even been asking DH to put socks on me when I get dressed, since bending all the way down really hurts! :(

[January2007Mommies]

UPDATED TO HERE

[Lucy Van Pelt]

Ginger - YAY for officially passing the GTT!!! :D I'm sorry about your DH not understanding that you want only the best for the baby... It took me a while to explain to my DH why I wanted a particular stroller or crib - I've learned a new trick of "blaming" everything on safety for the baby - once I tell him it's the SAFEST we can get, he can't argue with me anymore...

Unfortunately, I don't think the fabric of the glider cushions qualifies as a safety issue! LOL

One thing I am definitely getting are the letters for the wall abover Katie's crib. I was browsing online and I actually found some letters painted to match the bedding we are using. They are kinda pricey though - $9 a letter. I found some cheaper ones by a lady that several CC gals have used for $7 a letter so I will probably order from her. They take about 2 months to get here so I will need to order them ASAP to make sure they are here before Katie!

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e371/teeray78/Kendall.jpg

I will probably go with the curlz font shown here and have her paint the letters in pink and tan to match the bedding.

http://www.myeasypics.com/is.php?i=71723&img=curlz-Kaitlyn.JPG

[GardenGirl]

Warning long post – I have about 4 pages to get updated on. I’ll do by best …

Angela – you remarked about it taking 10 minutes to get an accurate heartbeat. I was the same way. The baby kept moving around and would sit still for the nurse to catch the rate. I kept telling her I knew there was a heartbeat because I could feel it!

Jen – thanks for the advice on my OB. I really like the practice as whole and the hospital she delivers at. If I were to switch it would be to another doctor there that I’ve heard wonderful things about. And I would be uncomfortable seeing my doc there. Of course, like you said she probably wouldn’t even notice!! But I will change for baby #2.

Braxton Hicks – I have no idea what a contraction feels like. I do have times that my abdomen (high up though) is hard and sort of a burning sensation. But it lasts a long time. It doesn’t come and go. I’ve just learned to cope. It cracks me up with the doctor asks if I’m having contractions. I tell her no and say I wouldn’t know if I did. She responds, oh yeah you would.

Nurseries – Julie and Ginger: congrats on getting the paint up and things all together. I’m trying not to get impatient since it’s my procrastination that is the reason we don’t have furniture yet. Our furniture won’t arrive until the first part of December (it takes 12 weeks). So until then, I’ll just be buying everything to put in it! Julie asked about my bedding. I did call on Friday and the lady told me they had just received the fabric. I was quite curious because I had received the pillow and toy bag. Apparently one of the fabrics is no longer being “made.” So they had to call another distributor and get it from there to create the bumper. They only had enough in stock to do the ruffle around the pillow. They called yesterday and said it was shipping this morning so I should have it by the end of the week. I told her I’d better, since my shower is this weekend and every family member from out of town is anxiously awaiting the arrival of the bedding. While my aunt is in town for the shower, she is going to paint the nursery. I plan on being there, but not in the room. I’ve read that paint is safe (non lead that is), but that the fumes can make you nauseous if anything. I just plan on popping in there every now and then, but staying out most of the time. It will be a nice weekend here, so we can keep the windows open to air out the house some.

Closet sorting – funny you mention this Angela. I just started doing this last weekend and will finish it up this weekend. Because I can’t fit into my regular winter clothes, I never moved my spring/summer clothes out of my closet and put in my fall/winter wardrobe. Now with all the new maternity clothes and randomly putting in a few sweaters from last year, my closet it busting a gut. It was too small to begin with so now I’m in a world of hurt. I’m taking off Friday before all my family comes in and I plan on doing the switcheroo from closet to closet. My MIL stays in the guest bedroom I have all my winter stuff in so I need to make room anyway. I’m hoping that the recent shipment from the Gap and JCPenny’s will be my last order. I’m spending way too much money. But I’m having a problem since I have to wear business attire/business casual at work THEN trying to find clothes to wear on the weekends. I hate putting on regular old t-shirts because I just look fat and not pregnant. So I’m having to outfit both work and casual and it’s getting ridiculous. I know you all can relate though! Winter – I’m lucky that I don’t need a real “winter coat.” Living in Houston means we have mild winters. Yeah, it gets in the 30s at times, but not every day. So I can just bundle up with layers and not have to spend $$$ on a coat. I hope you don’t though.

Acid Reflux – I’ve had one major epidsode of this in my life and it was pre-preggo. It was so bad, when I went to the doctor he said I had an actual burn mark in my esophagus. Of course, then I could take Nexium for a few days and that helped. I notice I have little boughts here and there and it is from eating too much and eating too late and/or lying down too soon after. Sounds like you’ve figured that out though and can prevent it in the future.

Ginger – the cost of your first child – geez I can relate to that. I know I’m spending way too much money, but I don’t care. DH has been really good. He’s scoffed a few times, but when I tell him that I plan on reusing all this stuff for the next little one, it really helps. Plus, it helps that I’m the one in charge of all our finances so he doesn’t have a real concept of exactly how much we are spending.

Letters – oh my gosh they are cute. Where did you get the pics of the Kendall one? I just love it! Not sure if I can do the two month thing since we don’t know the name. I guess I could get one for a boy and one for a girl. Geez that would be pricey …

Okay, I’ve typed a novel – so I’m signing off now

[January2007Mommies]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v196/zhannushka/043.gif

[Lucy Van Pelt]

I went ahead and ordered the $7 letters. It's a good thing I ordered now because she is running about 8-9 weeks for delivery! The letters will be the curlz font and all lowercase. I am having her paint them all offwhite with pink and tan designs of stripes, polka dots, and gingham. I guess this means we are locked into the name of Kaitlyn, doesn't it? :D

Brad put the final coat of paint on the nursery door this evening so I am hoping we can assemble the furniture TOMORROW. I can't wait to see how it all looks. Unfortunately, I can't make the crib because we haven't purchase a mattress yet.

[ButterflyJen]

Julie, love the nursery! It does look bright and cheery.

wine_o - OMG, how scary. I'm glad you're OK - I've never had that happen, but yow!

Ginger, I am in love with letters like that. I bought cheapo letters at Hobby Lobby and have yet to make them....for my 2yo DD. :o I need to get on that, her room is so bare and boring now!

Tera, that does make sense about your OB - I totally understand feeling uncomfortable if you'd see her, but who knows if she'd even take it personally/notice. Sounds like she might be too busy for that. ;) Whatever you feel most comfortable with is the best thing for you!

Not much else to say - never heard about my glucose test yesterday, so I'm saying no news is good news. :D

[Alegna]

You know I didn't even ask when I would get the results of my glucose test back. DOH! I guess I figured they'd tell me at my next appointment. I suppose they would call if the numbers were way out of wack and it was of immediate concern.

It's odd. The arm the nurse dug around in didn't really bruise. But the arm the other nurse actually got the blood from....HUGE yellow and green bruise. At least it doesn't hurt. :)

[jmvan74]

Tera: Geesh...you think the woman would of called you to let you know there would be a delay w/ the bedding. I hope it is ready before your shower.

Ginger; Adorable letters.

Thanks, Zhanna.:) Hooray for showing!

Thanks, Jen. I hope you passed the GTT!

Angela: I never thought to ask about when I'd hear results either. :o I have an appt. Monday, so I guess I'll know then.


GTT: I took it this morning. BLECH! I nearly threw up. I don't remember the bottle of glucola being so large....As soon as I left, I hit up McDonalds for a bacon, egg and cheese bagel before the headache struck! I won't be surprised if I failed, but boy I hope I didn't.

[Elenna]

jmvan: It is interesting to read everyone's varied reactions to that glucose drink. I read on the side of the glucose bottle I was given that common side effects include nausea, headaches, fainting :eek:, and diarhea. Sorry it didn't agree with you. I hope you pass the test.

lucy van pelt: Those letters are cute!

zhanna: Yah for finally showing!

wine-o: How scary. I'd be afraid to fall back asleep after that, too.

braxton hicks: I've been having these for weeks. Some days more than others.

I don't have much going on. I passed my glucose test, my iron levels are good, and my thyroid levels have gone back to normal.

[Alegna]

Well, tonight is part 1 of the breastfeeding class. I am feeling kind of silly. It just seems too early to be taking classes! :eek:

But they didn't offer the breastfeeding class again until next year. I figure it's better to take it early than to be trying to figure it out on my own or after the baby is here.

Tomorrow is part 2. It's about pumping and storing milk, returning to work and weaning.

Next week starts the birthing classes. I probably could have waited and taken the class in December but it was on Monday nights. I figured Tuesdays would work better for us.

I'm still trying to wrap my mind around the idea of it being so close to the end that I need to take classes! YIKES!

[quest]

Very quick post because now that I finally have the time to make a post things are crazy at work...

wine_o_girlie - I know EXACTLY what you are talking about. With my DD, I got that pretty often toward the end (I think). I would be sound asleep, and out of nowhere I'd sit straight up in bed gasping for breath (even though I could breathe), and it felt like fire in my throat. (And there was a sour taste, too, which was really gross.) I'd usually just take a drink of water and calm myself back down and go to sleep. I assumed it was reflux of some sort, but never associated it with eating late. This time, I got it once a few months ago, but ::knock on wood:: not since. I know how awful/scary it is so hopefully neither of us get it again!

I'm just enormous. My weight gain is about the same as it was at this point when I was pregnant with my DD (which is considerably more than many of you have posted so far :o ), but I don't remember being this clumsy or feeling so exhausted after doing something minor like walking up a flight of stairs. I feel like I'm constantly sitting down to catch my breath. And I have 2-1/2 more months of growing?

I'm starting to get a little nervous about juggling things after the baby is born, mostly as it relates to my DD. I know things will just work themselves out, but she's just so attached to me (and I to her!) that even though we talk about the new baby I know she can't possibly understand and I'm terribly afraid of how she'll feel when she no longer gets 100% of my time. I'm trying not to dwell on it, but I can't help it. Plus, I swear she's becoming even MORE of a mommy's girl lately....as if she senses that pretty soon another baby is going to be here. Any other RO's feeling this way or is it just me?

[mommydearest]

You can get a free copy of American Academy of Pediatrics Caring For Your baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5 by going to the State Farm website.

http://www.sf.pii.orders.com/events/birth/

Mine actually came today, so I do know it works. So far, they haven't contacted me, except to send the book and there were no hidden fees or anything.

Hope it helps someone!

[zhannushka]

I cannot believe that I just typed 30 weeks in the Title box... Wow - this seems completely surreal!

Ginger - I can't wait to see what your nursery will look like with furniture in it!

Jen - I sure hope that no news is good news on your GTT!!!

Julie - I am sorry that the glucola made you feel so yucky... :( Here's to hoping that you passed!!!

Elenna - YAY for passing the GTT and for all the normal levels!

Angela - Have fun with the classes! I still have to register for ours - I keep procrastinating... :rolleyes:

quest - I'm not an RO, but one of my really good friends had her 2nd baby last year and her DD (3 years old at the time) got more and more attached to Mommy as the 2nd baby's due date got closer... She did get over it fairly quickly once the baby arrived and it was really helpful that her dad, my friend's husband, made sure to spend lots of time with her while my friend was busy with their newborn. It's about 1 year later now and the little girl is a total Daddy's girl! :)

Kristen - Thanks for the link! I just ordered my copy too. :p

Baby has been superactive lately - he's been kicking up a storm, especially at night when I'm ready to go to sleep. All day today he's been poking me right next to my belly button - it tickles and makes me laugh out loud - my co-workers must think that I'm crazy... ;)

[Alegna]

Well, the breastfeeding class was kind of a waste. I'm not sure I learned anything I didn't really already know. But it was good to see a video and get some free samples of breast pads and creams. Plus having the contact information for the future is nice.

Tomorrow is part two. She said it's more of a show and tell instead of lecture. It will be interesting to see the different items.

DH said I could have just given him to 10 minute run down. He felt it was a waste too. But he was already slightly annoyed with me. We went to the wrong building. The paperwork said the class was at the Center for Health. Well, I went to the Center for Healthy Living. So we were about 15 minutes late for the beginning of class. Mostly my fault, but goodness, could they pick closer names for the different buildings?

Stopped by K's Merchandise on the way home. (I think it's a regional store) They are going out of business and things just got bumped up to 20% off. They had one Britax Marathon left. I picked it up for $199. I was hoping to wait for more of a discount but since it was the only one left I didn't have a choice. I'm still keeping my eye on the Pump In Style breast pumps. I can't decide if I want the original or the advanced. They've only got two advanced left. But over a dozen of the original. I figure if I wait long enough the decision will be made for me. :) I'll probably end up with the original. Maybe it will be at an even bigger discount.

[robyn]

Zhanna - 30 weeks does seem crazy!! It feels like just yesterday that we started this thread.

Angela - Sorry the BF class was a bust. I do mine in December and I'm not expecting much.

Mommydearest - I ordered the book recently when I saw another thread on it somewhere in Pregnancy or Parenting. Mine came last week and it looks like it has a lot of good info!

jmvan - Sorry the glucola didn't agree with you. I think I'm the only weirdo that kind of liked it. :o And I even had the brown cola-flavored one! I do love those bacon egg and cheese bagels from McD's, though. I hadn't had one in quite some time and suddenly since I got over my m/s in the 2nd trimester I've been eating them a few times a week. Yikes!

Ginger - Those letters are adorable! Have fun putting together the furniture. Your nursery is going to be so cute!

Wine-o-girlie - I haven't had it quite that bad, but I do get some pretty nasty acid reflux when I lay down to go to bed at night. It's definitely not fun. :(

****

Can I be vain for a second??

I got my hair cut yesterday and the whole time I was sitting in the chair I kept thinking how puffy my face looked. Ugh! Why did I think I was going to be so lucky as to go through this whole pregnancy looking like the regular me with just the addition of a little preggo belly?? I really haven't gained too much weight (about 10 pounds) so I didn't think my face would puff this soon. And of course I have my shower this weekend so I was hoping to look decent for the pictures. Between the puffy face and the pregnancy acne I am not looking cute AT ALL! I'm hoping that if I lay off high sodium foods and just drink a ton of water between now and Saturday evening I might look a little better. Wish me luck.

[Winter Biscuit]

Zhanna - 30 weeks already?! :eek: Have I mentioned lately that I am denial that we are all in the 3rd trimester?

mommydearest - thanks for the link. Tried to order it yesterday but for some reason the link wasn't working. I think it might have been our pop-up software blocking it. I'll try again today.

jmvan - sorry the glucola wasn't tasting too appetizing for you. I hope you passed!

robyn - I'm sure you look great, but if your face is puffier than normal, it's probably just water retention and it should go back to normal without too much trouble. When I was pregnant with my DD, my MIL made a point of telling me that my face was "really starting to fill out." :rolleyes: :mad: I actually hadn't even noticed until she made the comment, and then of course I was all self-conscious and certainly wasn't feeling very cute. I feel your pain and again, I'm sure you look great and will take some great photos this weekend!

Wine-o-girlie - that sounds so scary, I hope you don't have to experience that again!

Lucy VanPelt - cute wall letters!

Alegna - sorry the BFing class disappointed you, but glad you still got something out of it! Samples are always nice to have because you may find that you prefer one brand of a certain product over another and therefore can save yourself from buying the brand you don't like.

quest -- my DD is definitely a mommy's girl too, and I am also nervous about how this is all going to work out when the baby comes. My girlfriend has a son the same age as my DD and she just had a baby. She told me that she expected the "typical" toddler behavior when she first brought the baby home, but instead her son was just very sad and kept going to his room to cry his eyes out :( She said it was heartbreaking but it only lasted about a week before he did a 360 and now he ADORES his baby sister. I wish I could look into a crystal ball and predict how my DD will react to all this change (esp. since I am having a c-section and will be in the hospital for 3 nights) so I can prepare myself for it. As excited as I am about Nugget, I am also sad that I won't be able to give 100% to DD anymore and some days I honestly can't really imagine what it will be like to care for 2 children. I know everything will work out and I'll have plenty of love to share. And I'm sure that one day soon I'll be saying "I can't imagine life without BOTH of these children." I truly do think that the anticipation of the change is the worst part. Just wanted you to know that you're not alone!




I had my monthly OB appointment today. I guess I've hit the "rapid growth phase" as I gained 8 pounds since my last appointment :eek: I've gained 16 pounds total, so that means I gained 50% in the last 4 weeks. Crazy, eh? I know it's all relative and I'm still well within the "normal" weight gain range (and still have plenty of gaining and growing to do ;)), but it was still shocking when I stepped on the scale and the number kept going up, up, UP!

Everything was fine today. Blood pressure is good, Nugget's heartbeat was a strong 150 bpm. I passed my GTT test with flying colors but my hemoglobin levels came back a little low. Not low enough to warrant iron supplements, but the nurse gave me a list of iron-rich foods and told me to try to eat at least 3 items from the list every day. IIRC, I was slightly anemic with my first pregnancy too, but everything was easily controlled through diet so I am not worried.

Forgot to add - the nurse also gave me a sheet saying that they want me to start counting the baby's kicks now that I'm in the 3rd trimester. The sheet is in my car, but I think it says they like to see at least 10 kicks every 2 hour period. Has anyone else been asked to start tracking kick counts? I don't remember doing this with my first pregnancy.

Also, I'm on the 2-week schedule now. Next appointments are November 15 and November 29.. Still haven't scheduled my c-section date yet, but I'm really in no hurry to get a date on the calendar, especially since anything can change between now and January. I'll certainly trust my doctor on the best time to schedule the surgery, but I'm not a big fan of scheduling c-sections any earlier than necessary. I prefer to keep this Nugget cooking as long as possible. Let's see if I'm still singing the same tune at the very end of this pregnancy!

[Elenna]

Winter biscuit: I specifically asked my OB at my last appt when I should start kick counts. She said she doesn't ask her patients to do them unless they notice a drastic change in the baby's movements (ie: less than usual). She said as long as you're feeling your baby move every day, that's all that matters.

[jmvan74]

Elenna: Congrats on passing the GTT!

Angela: Sorry the class wasn't very helpful. I honestly think the most helpful thing I got was a tiny reference guide that came w/ a free diaper bag at the end of my birthing class. Plus the class made me aware of the support group available and I was there often!
Great deal on the Marathon!

Robyn: I know a lot of people who liked the glucola. ;) I don't think you are being vain. It's so hard to see yourself change so drastically. My skin is a mess, too. My face is dry and blotchy and I certainly do not feel cute, but it will all be over soon and the end result is soo worth the cosmetic flaws. :D

Zhanna; I laugh out loud a lot when I'm getting kicked, too. It still surprised me sometimes!

Quest and WB: I'm feeling the same way about having #2. DS is so attached to me and it seems like he knows something is up. He has been super clingy lately and doesn't even want DH anymore. It makes me feel so guilty, but I know in the long run, he will be so happy to have playmate. I am worried about the first few weeks when we will all be adjusting. I've actually been trying to avoid thinking about it, so maybe I can just let things happen. :o

kick count: My DR. is on the same page as Elenna's. She says as long as baby is moving everyday and I don't notice a change, then all is good.

[magdesilver]

Had my 28 week appt. today and all was fine. I'm up 26 lbs. already :eek: ! That is more than I gained in total with DD.... the m/w isn't concerned, but I am. I am going to really reign it in in terms of sweets. I don't feel like I am gorging at all, but I do love chocolate :) . Anyhow, everything else is fine, just moving along here. I have not done a single thing in terms of getting the baby's room ready.... he'll be in our room for the first few months anyhow, but I do need to get on the ordering for the crib, dresser, and bookcase in the next few weeks so it is here to put his stuff in.

Alegna, That is a good deal on the Marathon, but what is the manufacture date? It should be on the box. I'm only asking because they are good for 6 years, and if you are using an infant seat first and then switching to the Marathon you might be losing out on quite a bit of usable time. Overall, yes the Marathon is expensive, but over 6 years it is not bad at all comparitively. Just make sure it is worth it for you to keep it vs. paying a little more later on for more usable time!

[Lucy Van Pelt]

UGH - I had the worst night trying to sleep ever!! DH and I watched LOST (as always) and it was an episode that especially freaked me out for some reason. DH had a hockey game at 11:15pm so he left me alone in the scary house...LOL I never sleep well anymore when home alone so I did the best I could until he got home around 1:30am. Even with my vaporizor running, I couldn't breathe so I tossed and turned all night. DH left for work at 6am and I had the most bizarre dream I have ever had. It had parts of LOST, part me working in an office that was hosting some Japanese exchange workers - complete with an office supermarket, etc. Needless to say, I will be taking a nap later this afternoon for sure.

DH assembled the dresser last night! I tried to get him to put the crib together too, but he had to "prepare for his hockey game"...:rolleyes: The crib will definitely be taken care of tonight. I'm just not sure where I want each piece to go in the room...:confused:

[Alegna]

Alegna, That is a good deal on the Marathon, but what is the manufacture date? It should be on the box. I'm only asking because they are good for 6 years, and if you are using an infant seat first and then switching to the Marathon you might be losing out on quite a bit of usable time. Overall, yes the Marathon is expensive, but over 6 years it is not bad at all comparitively. Just make sure it is worth it for you to keep it vs. paying a little more later on for more usable time

I'll have to check when I get home. How long do kids usually stay in the infant carriers? It's usually less than a year isn't? I can always use the Marathon as an rear facing infant seat in DH's car.

Heck, how long do they stay in the Marathon before switching to a booster on average? I imagine kiddo will be out of the Marathon before age 5.

As you can see I'm not up on all my research. :)

[magdesilver]

The Marathon can be used from birth rearfacing, and can stay rearfacing (the SAFEST way to ride :) ) until 33 lbs. or the head is over the top of the seat, whichever happens first. Most people start using them around 6 months, but depending on what infant seat you use, your baby could last much longer (like if you get a graco safeseat that goes to 30 lbs.) or less (if you are using an older infant seat that only goes to 20 lbs.). It just depends on your infant seat and baby's comfort. Even if you don't use the infant seat as a carrier you can just leave it in the car as a carseat.

And one of the best things about the Marathon (and decathlon, and boulevard, they are all similar seats) is that they can be used to 65 lbs. although most kids will outgrow them by height well before that. Your kid can stay in it until 5-6 years old, at which point they will be able to behave well enough to move to a basic cheap booster. The longer rearfacing, the safer, and the longer in a 5 pt. harness, the safer your kid is, so the Marathon is an excellent choice!

Just want to make sure you get the maximum usage for your $$! It is good for 6 years from manufacture date. So if you have one with a July 06 manufacture date and you use it around baby's 6 month birthday, then you have already lost a year of usability, which isn't good, you know?

[Lucy Van Pelt]

Quick questions!

Now that the dresser is assembled, I want to start washing and putting away some of the baby clothes I have received. I bought Dreft to use, but should I avoid using fabric softner when I was baby clothes or is that gentle enough for their skin?



I've been reading over other pregnancy threads (both on CC and LJ) and I notice that most pregnant women are "leaking" colostrum starting at around 20 weeks or so. I haven't started leaking anything. My concern is that I have PCOS and I have heard that this condition can cause breastfeeding supply issues. Anyone have any kind of input on this? (I have a doctor appointment next week and I will be asking her about this issue as well.)


Thanks!

[Alegna]

Good to know. Thanks.

Even if I only get 4 years use I'll still be happy. :p

[wagsgirl]

Ginger-I'd stay away from softeners. I know it's recommended, but I can't remember why. As far as the leaking colostrum, I leaked with my DD and now this baby. No supply issues with DD. With my DS, I never leaked. I had supply issues with him and was only able to BF (keep up) for about 8 weeks. This may just be a coincidence, and I don't have PCOS, but I thought I'd let you know my experience.

I'm so behind on SO's...I read every day, but rarely have time to post.

Had my appt today. Did the GTT, I'm assuming I'll pass. I had no issues with my other pregnancies, so I think I'll be okay. I didn't remember how sweet it was, though. I love my chocolate, but let me tell ya! It was so sweet it was burning the back of my throat!! :eek:

I'm having another ultrasound next Thurs, Nov 9th. My doc always does one in the beginning of the 3rd trimester to keep an eye on the growth of the baby. I measured right on and the "baby sounds good". She never tells the heartrate... So, now I have to be strong again to not find out the sex!!

I start my every two week appts, so my next one is Nov 17th. I have them all scheduled through Dec, but I don't have the schedule in front of me.

I'm feeling great. The heartburn is starting to get worse :( Oh well. Small price to pay :) I just can't believe I have, at most, 11 weeks left. Time is gonna fly with all the holidays coming up!!!

[magdesilver]

Ginger,
I never leaked colostrum and I had plenty BM for my DD for 13 months :) . I leaked a little bit in the first 6-8 weeks pp, but after that I didn't really leak at all, ever. It doesn't mean anything in relation to BFing success!

[Winter Biscuit]

Ginger,
I never leaked colostrum and I had plenty BM for my DD for 13 months :) . I leaked a little bit in the first 6-8 weeks pp, but after that I didn't really leak at all, ever. It doesn't mean anything in relation to BFing success!

I could have written every single word in this post - right down to having plenty of BM for my DD for 13 months :) People told me to stock up on breast pads before DD came because "you'll need them." I never made it through one box - and still have PLENTY leftover. Everyone is different, but that was my experience.

Fabric softeners - I would also stay away from them. Contrary to popular belief, you don't even need to use Dreft. My DH has allergies so we always have to use the fragrance-free laundry detergent (we use Tide Free HE). Since she was born, DD's clothes and bedding have always been washed with the same Tide Free detergent that I use when I wash everything else. It's less expensive than Dreft and I personally don't like the smell of Dreft anyway (although I know plenty who do) :)

[jmvan74]

Fabric Softner: I would avoid fabric softner, too. It can be harsh on baby skin. I've been using Baby All for DS's clothes and I always double rinse. He has sensitive skin, so I'm pretty careful about it.

Leaking: I didn't leak with pg#1 until I was 30 something weeks along and I BF'd for 11 months with ample supply. I've already started leaking a little this time. I actually never stopped leaking until DS was about 6 months old. :rolleyes:

Tonya: Enjoy your u/s! Sorry about the heart burn.Yuck.

[Lucy Van Pelt]

Thanks everyone - nice to know thingsare still "normal" with me! I've got Katie's clothing in the laundry and didn't put in any fabric softner.

DH came home from work somewhat early today and just started to assemble the crib. Well, he opened the box and, OF COURSE, one of the pieces is broken. Crap! I tried calling the company and they are in the East Coast so they are closed for the day. It will have to wait until tomorrow. :mad: I'm so bummed. I was really looking forward to having the furniture assembled.

[Alegna]

I seem to remember something about fabric softener having an effect on the fire retardantness of baby clothes.

I don't know for sure. I'll have to try and remember not the throw a dryer sheet in with the baby clothes.

I've got a few free samples of Dreft but after those are used up I'm planning on using ALL Free and Clear. That's what our clothes get washed in anyway.

[Alegna]

Man, for the past few days I've been having that kicked in the crotch feeling you ladies were talking about a few weeks ago. Yikes, it's uncomfortable.

Did it go away or are you still suffering? I'm hoping this is just a phase and it goes away. :)

[Lucy Van Pelt]

Just got off the phone with the crib manufacturer. The replacement piece should be here in the next 7-10 days. Now I can just stare at the pieces sitting in the nursery and wait. :(

[quest]

Alegna - For me, the K.i.t.C. feeling comes and goes. For a few days it will drive me nuts, and then go away for a while. I thought I remembered it going away and staying away last time, but this time it's definitely making several appearances :(

I only gained 2 lbs. this month! I honestly can't believe it. We had 3 birthdays and halloween, and with that much cake and candy I can't believe it's the lowest monthly weight gain I've had so far. I was trying to eat better in the beginning of the month, so maybe that actually paid off this time.

My doc is letting me go one more time with 1 month in between appts., then I'll go to every 2 weeks. That's fine by me. But now, the next time I go in, I'll only have 6 weeks left in the pregnancy. That's insane!

RO's - I'm glad to hear I'm not alone with the nervousness. I, too, am trying not to focus on it, and instead just making the most of every second I have left of DD being an only child. One neat thing is that she is completely fascinated with my cousin's new baby