April 2007 Mamas: Graduating to Trimester Number Two!

[juliemag]

Birth Plan - I had an idea of what I'd like to happen during delivery, but nothing set in stone yet. I guess this is the sort of thing you discuss with your doctor? Or is it something you should give to the hospital before you show up to give birth? I guess I'm a little confused. :p

Kim - man oh man you had a quick birth! I'd read your birth story in another thread some time ago... and I can see why you'd be a tad concerned this time around! I think its a good idea to still prepare for your "perfect" birth though, because you never know.

Lauren - good golly Ava was a big baby! I was 9lb 13oz and have been pretty scared of delivering a baby of that size...espeically since it's a *real* possibility. It's nice to know that you did make it through ok... even though the recovery was difficult. I keep thinking that b/c I was so huge as a baby, that I'll end up needing a c-section. But again, you never know.

Childbirth class - Not sure if we'll be doing this or not. At my last OB appt my dr advised us to take one. But I told her DH is an EMT and has assisted during a live birth before... and she seemed to like that answer. I think she recommends the class more for the DH's, so they know what to expect. I am, however, taking a Hospital Tour on Jan 27th! Just scheduled that yesterday. :)


I can't believe Christmas is 5 days away... I think I need a 5-day nap just to prepare for it!

[wendstress]

Kim - I envy people like you.... Fast labor, minimal pushing. You don't want it to be any longer, really. Mine was 16 hours, including 2.5 hours of pushing. I know it gets a lot worse, but that wasn't exactly a cake walk!

Julie - I would advise you to take a childbirth class. Just fully understanding the different phases of labor, as well as choices you may be asked to make is all good info to have. Trust me - it is virtually impossible to make ANY decision during the throws of labor. Making the decisions ahead of time is a good plan! Good that DH has helped with some births, but in the end it is your body and he can't make decisions for you!

Birth Plan - Naturally, no episiotomy, please!
I should answer my own question! My plan is for minimal intervention, and to do it as naturally as possible. I discovered during L&D with #1 that I have an extremely high threshhold for pain. Hopefully #2 will go faster, anyway! I'm not opposed to an epidural, but if it went like last time I don't forsee needing one. I did have an episiotomy with #1, which I was initially opposed to. However, after he did the cut, James came right out. Had he not done the epis., I could have pushed another hour and torn terribly. Dr. C. said afterwards that he prefers not to do them, but sometimes he just has to. I was one of those cases. I'd love not to have one the second time around, but won't hesitate if it's needed.

[juliemag]

Julie - I would advise you to take a childbirth class. Just fully understanding the different phases of labor, as well as choices you may be asked to make is all good info to have. Trust me - it is virtually impossible to make ANY decision during the throws of labor. Making the decisions ahead of time is a good plan! Good that DH has helped with some births, but in the end it is your body and he can't make decisions for you!



Thanks for the suggestion. I think you're right. I mean... I never done any of this before...and it would be nice to know what I'm getting myself into!! :)

[kimthebride]

I should answer my own question!
Lol! Yeah, in my birth plan I stated i didn't want an episiotomy either. I was fine with taking my time, perineal massage, etc. In the end, the OB (I hadn't met her...so this was a lovely get-to-know-ya moment :rolleyes: ) decided to move things along by ummm...sticking her hand in me palm down and pushing down to stretch me out faster and it hurt so bad i saw black, literally, and almost passed out from the pain. I screamed a very loud explitive and then she lectured me on "getting out of control". Um lady, no offense, but let me yank on your hoo-ha and we'll talk about screaming!
needless to say, I'd like a gentler OB delivering me this time - or at least some notice when something like that is about to happen!

Tearing/Episiotomy
My OB swears that a big reason I didn't tear or need an episiotomy - even with a fast L&D - was that i was pretty religious about doing certain exercises on my body ball that stretched things out, got them ready. I can look for the thread, but I think the title is something like "Body Ball Exercises' in the Pregnancy forum. I posted my whole routine in there, and have had CCers let me know it worked for them, too.
My personal trainer I had when pg with DS waas specialized in prenatal & postnatal training, and he was insistent on my doing that routine. Bless his heart.

wendstress
Yeah, I know...I can't even talk about it with DH's family because they all had looong labors. But it was really scary, overwhelming and almost like being in a car accident it was so out of control. I would like to at least have a 3-hour L&D this time (remember, this is from 1st contraction to delivery...no notice or anything before that).

juliemag
As for the Birth Plan, at the time there was a link on WC for a website that guided you through the different topics to cover/options for your plan. I can post my topics here if you'd find it helpful. I saved the plan on my other computer for baby #2, and can pull it up if interested.

lauren
Ouch!
My friend had to have the foreceps used on her for her 9+ lb baby as well, and the whole thing sounds familiar: she was past due, induced, it took a couple days, dramatic L&D, heartrate dropping in the end. It was a very, very hard delivery and she's due before me with #2. So I can understand your fears. Hopefully your new OB can help ease your worries and make your next one a much better experience. I had only 3 stitches and that hurt, i can't imagine what a 4th degree felt like.

[myshel]

Birth Plan: I went into DS's birth with a pretty open mind. My big fear was that if I had a really rigid birth plan in mind, I'd be disappointed if it didn't go according to that plan. I'm sort of anal that way. I think by keeping my options open, I found myself a bit more relaxed and wasn't thrown for a loop when something new cropped up, which did frequently since I was induced.

Episiotomy: I didn't want one, but ended up with one. I had been pushing almost 2 1/2 hours at this point and the OB offered to do a forecep delivery. I asked him to give me more time, and he did but gave me the episiotomoy anyway. In the end, it wasn't so bad. I was sore, but when I showed it to DH the day we came home, he said it didn't even look like anything happened. I'm so glad my OB has been delivering babies for 35 years!

[MarriedaGoalie]

Birth Plan: *eek* I don't know...? I am so damn unprepared!!! :( :( :(

[wendstress]

Birth Plan - I just did a quick Google and came up with this... http://www.childbirth.org/articles/birthplans.html

I don't think the idea is so much to have every detail planned, but rather to be informed about the choices you may have to encounter and which way you'd prefer to go. No L&D is the same, but having some goals will help!

[Tonysweetie]

Birth Plan: I have no idea, as long as I have time to get to the hospital that I have chosen, have my epi and get to deliever vaginally w/o tears or any complications and mininal pain. I want the baby to be healthy and happy and the 2 of us make it through sucessfully! I'm a happy camper! :D Yep sounds like a plan to me, LOL!

[diedra1027]

Birth Plan - Didn't do one the first time and not doing this time either since I already know I'm having a repeat c-section. :). Kim - my sister had progressively quicker L&D with each kiddo, but nothing like yours (I think her third L&D was just over 2 hours start to finish). I'm hoping you'll get to have the experience that you want this time!

[lil_nance]

Birth Plan: I have no idea, as long as I have time to get to the hospital that I have chosen, have my epi and get to deliever vaginally w/o tears or any complications and mininal pain. I want the baby to be healthy and happy and the 2 of us make it through sucessfully! I'm a happy camper! :D Yep sounds like a plan to me, LOL!
This is pretty much what I planned the first time and basically how it happened. DS was in a bit of distress because his cord was near his ear and getting squeezed with each contraction. I ended up with an epis. and they used suction to get DS out. He has a huge head, always in 95%. Overall, no complaints and hope for the same again. I LOVED having an epidural.

Classes We took almost everything the first time around. I doubt we'll do any this time. I would like to do a CPR class as I haven't had that. May look in to sibling classes but am fairly sure DS is too young. Not sure if they would be beneficial for us parents or not.

My parents just arrived from CA. They haven't been to our house since DS was born so it will be nice to have them here. We have seen them this past year just not at our home. FIL is coming on Sunday. We'll have all the grandparents for Christmas. Got to go get a snack before bed. I'm starving!

[Tonysweetie]

lil_nance: I hope it does go that way, that'd be great! :)


I have no idea what to wear! I have to leave in about 3 hours to DH work Christmas party. I need something nice but not too nice. I don't know! lol. Christmas is on Monday who's ready? I will hopefully be done today!

[lauren f s]

Kim: I have to echo OUCH to you, too! Your labor was so quick and I can't imagine being pulled open wider by my OB and having her get onto me for yelling :eek:. I hope things go slower for you this time and you're able to have a more controlled labor & delivery.

Tonysweetie: My company party was last week and I wore black pants, a camisole underneath, and a pretty caridgan. Oooh! I know you don't have much time and I'm not sure what the weather is where you are, but Target has a gorgeous black velvet blazer that's not expensive at all. That would be pretty for the holidays!

Tearing vs Episiotomy
After tearing, I'll absolutely take the episiotomy! From what I gather, Ava was bascially ripped out and it was a PITA to recover. If getting an episiotomy will help ease her out and ease any extra pain, I'll take it. I've talked with my dr. about it and he agrees that it's best for me, after talking about Ava's delivery. I'm not so scared to have another big kid. I'm expecting it and preparing myself for that, I just don't want the recovery to be as painful. It took 3 months before I felt remotely "normal" again and I do not want to deal with that a second time.

Exercises
Kim, could you bump up the thread where you listed your routine or share it here please? I'd love to do all I can to better prepare this time around!

Christmas
We're almost done. Gifts are bought and wrapped, I just need to pick up my parents gift and wrap that and I'm done (I work at a company that imports furniture and got them something here). However, I still need to finish up DH and get a few more things for Ava's stocking. Then I'm finished!

[basketcase]

Birth plan: I don't really have one, since I'm having a repeat c-section (I'm not a good vbac candidate). The only thing I can think that I need to tell the nurses and my OB is that I want the cord blood saved (like last time) and I want the baby in my arms as soon as possible. That's the only thing I regret from last time, that because of a miscommunication with the nurses, DS wasn't brought to my room until over three hours after he was born (it was the middle of the night and they thought I wanted him in the nursery while I slept --- um, NO!). This time I want the baby ASAP after the c-section, like in the recovery room if possible (not sure if this will fly with the hospital staff).

Other than that, I can't think of anything else to put in my "birth plan." My last c-section and recovery was just about as smooth and easy as it can get, so I'm hoping (knock on wood) it goes as well this time around. (I'm told the second time around it's even easier, if for no other reason than because I won't be going through 17 hrs of labor and 2.5 hrs of pushing before the surgery!)

[Tonysweetie]

About to head out to a Christmas party but I was fooling around with a baby ticker and all I have to say is OMG...

http://tickers.baby-gaga.com/p/dev113pb___.png


I'm already on block 6, 3 more to go!! :eek: :eek: :eek: /end of my slight freak out, lol


Lauren: Thanks, If I had time I'd go check it out but the closet Target to me is about 30 minutes away. I ended up going with a pair of black maternity pants, and a black top with a sash around my waist. It'll do. :)

[SarahKatG]

LOL, Tonysweetie, that is pretty amazing how far along we are!

Birth plan - I had one with DD and it helped me organize my thoughts but I didn't actually distribute it to anyone. I was open to an epidural (had it, loved it, it really allowed me to relax and enjoy labor and birth), prefered not to have an episiotomy (had one, took me 6+ months to enjoy DTD again), and was set against the use of certain drugs (like cytotec). Anyhow, though the actual paper birth plan wasn't needed, I was glad I thought about these things ahead of time. I have to say overall I had a very good birth experience. I was induced and it failed the first time, second time took and moved quickly. I pushed for 30 minutes and nursed my DD :)

[mar77]

CC Name: Mar77
Me: Marilyn, 29
DH: Ewan, 33
Married: October 7, 06
TTC: August, 06
BFP: end of August 06
EDD: April 30, 07
Gender Prediction: BOY


I wanted to say a quick hello to all of you. I just found out about this site and thought that I'd join and see how things go. I haven't really figured out how to post, reply, etc...so please be patient with me. I started reading through some of your posts...but I cannot believe how active it is in here. I currently chat through another site, which isn't nearly as active as here.

We had an ultrasound and found out that my prediction was right...and we're having a BOY I wasn't able to feel the baby move but the past two days have been really amazing. He seems to be quite active starting around 8:30pm.

I hope that the doors are wide open and that you can all make me feel welcome to this site.

Marilyn

[kimthebride]

I can't imagine being pulled open wider by my OB and having her get onto me for yelling
Hindsight allowing for some sense of humor...it was kind of funny how much I was cursing like a drunken sailor. :o DH at one point was like "sweetheart, you're saying f*ck a lot and the nurses are just trying to help" and i think i yelled "WELL IT F*CKING HURTS!!" lol! So yes, i also hope i have a more controlled, epi-full L&d this time. ;) My poor embarassed husband would appreciate that, too.

Exercise Ball Thread
I bumped it up, and heres the link:
http://www.constantchatter.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3463

Welcome mar77!

Birth Plan = Birth Preferences
I am so glad I went over everything, just so i did know what I wanted when the options came up (on my chest after delivery, BFing right away, DH to be with DS if he needed to be taken out of the room, etc). Even as out of control as my L&D was, I felt i had a reign on certain things because i thought over my options and put my preferences on paper.

[MarriedaGoalie]

Welcome mar77!! We are always interested in newcomers! I'm actually surprised to have one this late in our pregnancies, but very happy to welcome you! Make yourself at home. :)

[myshel]

Welcome mar77 and congrats on your boy!

Hindsight allowing for some sense of humor...it was kind of funny how much I was cursing like a drunken sailor. DH at one point was like "sweetheart, you're saying f*ck a lot and the nurses are just trying to help" and i think i yelled "WELL IT F*CKING HURTS!!" lol! So yes, i also hope i have a more controlled, epi-full L&d this time. My poor embarassed husband would appreciate that, too.


I thought this was the way I was going to be, because, well... I'm a potty mouth. I only cursed once and that's because I was tired. Instead, I had the focus of a zen master. It was weird. I'm totally not like that in real life. :p

[myshel]

I thought I should also mention that at just after 7:25 am here, I want a turkey and cheese sandwich with chips. What the heck?! :)

[kimthebride]

I thought this was the way I was going to be, because, well... I'm a potty mouth. I only cursed once and that's because I was tired. Instead, I had the focus of a zen master. It was weird. I'm totally not like that in real life. :p
Lol!
Well, I was not much of a potty mouth which made it all the stranger for me! Since it was so fast and painful, I was doing yogic breathing with my eyes closed imagining a peaceful place to manage the pain. And ummm...in between calm quiet breathing a big fat f-bomb would drop now again, rather loudly. :p It was one extreme or the other, lol.

[lauren f s]

myshel: About two weeks ago I had a turkey & swiss sandwich and sour cream & onion chips for breakfast. It was delicious!

Welcome mar77 and congrats on the boy!!!

Ava loves the movie Toy Story and especially loves the song at the begining, You've Got a Friend in Me. For months now she'll tell me I'm her best friend or DH is her best friend, a grandparent/aunt/uncle/etc is her best friend. Last night we were talking and I asked if I was her best friend. She was very put out and said "No!" Same answer when DH asked if he was. So we asked who her best friend was and she said "My baby James" (DS). It kind of made my heart melt a little bit :).

[Tonysweetie]

mar77: Welcome!!! Congrats on your baby BOY!

myshel: YUMMM!!! That does sound awfully good!


I had a VERY detailed dream last night about the baby. I had a dream he was already born and we named him Andrew. He was soooo cute but had HUGE feet! He also took to BF right away. Lets hope that is true! lol

[MarriedaGoalie]

Dreams: I keep having dreams that our little one arrives WAY early, but then again, I also had dreams that we were having a little girl and that's not true, so who knows...?

[lil_nance]

mar77 Welcome! We're not a quiet or shy group :D

chips Ok, thanks ladies, now I'm craving sour cream & onion chips :rolleyes:

movement I ate a chocolate covered marshmallow today. Man, did that get her dancing.

Had a regular appt. today. All is good. HB 155. I've gained just over 8lb. so far. Need to check notes to find out where I was w/ DS at this point. Next appt. Jan. 15 for my reg. checkup and GTT.

[kimthebride]

Speaking of Craving
My lunch consisted of:
1. Annies Mac & cheddar
2. 1/2 a mini birthday cake I bought from the grocery store bakery...microwaved so all the frosting melted and it was warm
3. Edy's Peppermint Stick ice cream

I just made fajitas for dinner - HAD to have them - and i also got some Silk Soy Eggnog. Mmmmmm.....

[MarriedaGoalie]

I think I forgot to post this on here. This is a picture of the bedding that I ordered for our little guy. It consists of all 12 pieces in the picture except for the lamp. What do you guys think?

http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/yhst-95552160618728_1929_6371536

[kimthebride]

I like it!

[beinglizzy]

I love that bedding Married. Where did you find it?

[lauren f s]

Very nice bedding! Dark brown and blue is one of my favorite color combos! Where did you find it? The set up looks very similar to bedding I bought Ava over the summer on Ebay, I think the store was called Beyond Bedding (??). Anyway, if that's where you got it, I love what we got Ava. It's gorgeous and great quality!

[myshel]

Married: That is beyond gorgeous.

[Tonysweetie]

Married: Love it! I think that'll be great for your lil' man! :)


I think we've got our names narrowed down. So exciting! I'm so ready to call this little guy by a name instead of baby boy all the time. Are choices are...

Andrew Michael

Andrew Robert

Michael Alexander

Michael Anthony

We were leaning towards Alexander for the longest time but for some reason it just doesn't call us. Like I said before Michael is DH middle name so we want to carry it on (It's also his Dad's first name). Andrew is also a family name. It's his Grandfathers name so were between the two. Once we figure out a first name we can work on the middle name. So hard!!! lol. Well incase I don't come back before Monday I hope everyone has a wonderful and very Merry Christmas!!! God Bless!!!

[lauren f s]

Tonysweetie: I love that you'll name DS after relatives. I think that's so special. DD is named Ava Elisabeth after my grandmother & DH's great-aunt. DS will be James Brian after DH's uncle (who helped raise him) and my dad. Good luck narrowing it down!

[MarriedaGoalie]

We bought our bedding on beyondbedding.com. lauren f s, I'm so glad to hear the bedding you bought from there was high quality. That makes me feel good about my purchase! :)

Tonysweetie: I like Andrew Robert... 'cuz DH's name is Robert. :) I'm biased!

I think we finally decided on a name too. Its going to be Carter Thomas, but I am not going to tell anyone (outside of CC of course) about it yet because I don't want people calling him by his name yet.... I just want him to be "baby boy" for now. :)

[kimthebride]

Just popping in to wish everyone a VERY HAPPY HOLIDAY!!! We are headed out to Chicago in the morning, and won't be back til Thursday. :D I hope you all have a wonderful, safe, peaceful holiday with those you love.

[Tonysweetie]

Today DH put together the travel system...thought I'd share his hard work. :)

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f184/Tonysweetie/DSCN5705.jpg

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f184/Tonysweetie/DSCN5707.jpg

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f184/Tonysweetie/DSCN5708.jpg

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f184/Tonysweetie/DSCN5710.jpg

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f184/Tonysweetie/DSCN5706.jpg

[lauren f s]

Very nice travel system Tonysweetie!

It's 11:20 and I'm up baking. I love to bake, it's one of my favorite things to do, but I've been at it since 7 and am pooped! I'm finishing my last batch of cookies, then tomorrow have to make a cake for my dad to take to a party at my grandma's (he's requested it at least 3 times) and decorate the cookies. The good thing is, I got my Christmas gift early when my hand mixer literally had steam coming out of it and stopped working :eek:. DH heard me muttering choice words under my breath in the kitchen and called me into the living room, where he presented me with my much coveted KitchenAid mixer! I'm beyond excited :D!!

I hope you ladies and your hubbies all have a fabulous holiday!!

[myshel]

Happy Holidays to all of the April 2007 Mommies and their families!

[SarahKatG]

Happy Holidays Everybody!

I had a little bit of a scare yesterday. On Friday I started throwing up and then Friday night I started having terrible back pain (I haven't had back pain that bad since my labor with DD) and (TMI) diahhrea. Saturday morning the pain remained and my braxton hicks contractions were coming quickly (at one point I counted 4 in 10 minutes). I was about to go to the hospital when all of the sudden the back pain stopped. I decided to drink more water, lie down, and then decide about the hospital. I took a long nap and woke up feeling much better (only I had since developed awful heartburn). I'm feeling better today but that was one scary and painful day.

So, I'm glad to be done with that so I can enjoy Christmas. I think DD (22 months) is going to really have fun tomorrow and I'm so grateful that I'll be spending it home with her and DH and not in a hospital.

[Tonysweetie]

SarahKatG: Scary! I'm glad everything is okay!!!

[juliemag]

Just wanted to wish everyone in our thread a Merry Christmas!!!

[sunni76]

lauren f s Sounds like we had very similar experiences with our first births! I was in labor for over 30 hours, then pushed for 4 hours, and finally had a vacuum assisted birth for DD. I had a 3rd-almost 4th degree tear. Not fun! (altho my DD was only 8 pounds 14 ounces...I'm praying this baby is no bigger than that!).
Anyway, the good news this time around according to my doctor, is that there is only a 4-7% chance of tearing again. Supposedly our bodies know how to stretch more, etc. and it should be a much easier process. At least that's what she's been telling me as I have my small freak-outs about L&D!

Things I'd really like to go differently this time...
*DH to be able to cut the umbilical cord (he couldn't last time because of how long my L&D was, they were worried about DD so my Dr. cut the cord and then they put her under a warmer to check her out right away)
*I'd really love baby to be placed on my chest when he/she comes out
*If there is anyway to avoid a tear like I had and the stitching afterwards, I'm all for it!
*I'm thinking about not having an epidural. Crazy talk, I know, especially since I thought about it last time, and at 8-9 cm decided to get one. It was a very good decision though considering the rest of my delivery.

[Tonysweetie]

I hope everyone had a great Christmas yesterday!!! :)

[annielynn]

Merry Christmas (a day late) to everyone! I hope that it was special.

[lauren f s]

sunni: DH wasn't able to cut DD's umbilical cord either; she was immediately taken to the warmer to be cleaned and checked. It was a good while before I even got to see her, actually, and that's what I really want to be different about this delivery.

I hope you all had a lovely Christmas! Ours was nice, busy, but nice. I'm exhausted today and upset that I have to be at work but I'll survive. DH bought Ava a cute shirt at Target for Christmas that she's wearing today. It says "It's my brother's fault!" I love it!

I need help! I causing myself too much stress over DS's bedding, I know, but it's something I worry about. He and Ava will share a room. She has this bedding, which we bought for her in August, she adores, and we (I, DH has no opinion, aparently) really want to coordinate it with something for DS.
http://images.channeladvisor.com/Sell/SSProfiles/60000066/Images/3/Dragonfly_Dreams_Twin2.jpg

I mentioned earlier that I like the idea of a garden themed room and right now I'd like to do frogs for him. I like this, but worry it might be too feminine:
http://images.channeladvisor.com/Sell/SSProfiles/60000066/Images/4/LittleFroggy-reshoot-CRIB-01.jpg
http://images.channeladvisor.com/Sell/SSProfiles/60000066/Images/3/Little_Froggy_Crib_valance.jpg

I really love this bedding, but worry the touches of pink are too girly. DH is no help whatsoever and tells me to just pick whatever I want. I like that the frog bedding has a couple of dragonflies on it and seems to be similar in color to Ava's bedding. I'm thinking if I add enough snails and turtles and things to his "side" of the room it'll make it more masculine. What do you all think? If you hate it or think it's girly, please let me know! I need some honest opinions! We're moving into our house on Monday and I want to start decorating the room ASAP!

[MarriedaGoalie]

lauren_f_s: I don't think that is too feminine at all. I adore it! :)

[annielynn]

Lauren - I just love the bedding. I don't think that it is too girly at all! Very neutral and so completely adorable. You could play up the blue that is the in the bedding just as easily as the pink. With lots of frogs and snails, baby boy's side of the room is going to be so cute!!

[basketcase]

Lauren~ I don't think it's too feminine at all! I love the bedding and the way it coordinates so well with Ava's. To be honest, I didn't even notices those small touches of pink until you mentioned it. The key is in the details. Like you said, just add more snails and "boyish" details (especially for the walls) and you'll be totally fine.

I will probably be back with my own decorating questions this week, as we plan to redo DS's room into a big boy room AND clear out our office room AND make it into a new nursery. ACK! And DH might be called in for jury duty at the end of the week (his one week off), so we have no time. And I am horrible at making decisions. (Did I mention, ACK!)

[Tonysweetie]

Laruen: I think that is too cute and will look great!!!


Here is my 23 week boy belly shot!

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f184/Tonysweetie/DSCN5713.jpg

[myshel]

Hi, everyone. I hope that everyone had a great holiday. Ours was pretty good, but today, I'm laid up with a massive cold. I have a fever, sinus pain, and just feel pretty icky. I've been drinking tea and taking the meds I'm allowed, but this seriously sucks. :(

Will be back to post more when I don't want to sleep or crawl in a hole and die.

[happy1nuv]

Hey all...
I'm so far behind that I'm not going to attempt to catch up... Nic caught a stomach virus and then passed it on to me and dh... good times at our house. Luckily, we were all better for christmas day!

Thanks for all the advice on the names... I never would have thought to use Nicholaus as a middle name and just call baby cole... (of course, dh isn't digging it as much as me... which is why baby won't have a name til we get to the hospital --- <insert evil chuckle here> ...but really, what guy can deny a woman in labor anything? :) ..

lauren ~ I like how the two sets go together... BUT, I'm going to disagree with everyone and say it depends on what pieces you get. I don't mind most of the pieces and think they work just fine for a boy, but I think the quilt and mobile would push it to be too girly... if you left those two things off, I'd love them together and think it works really well...

Birth plans ~ Last time I had a really detailed one written out and went over it ahead of time with my midwives...they were all on board, only to find out that Nic had turned breech two nights before and I was an instant and un-optionable c-section. (So girls... if you care, do the research about what you'd want to happen in ANY instance, not just the one you want to happen). I DO plan to research repeat c's (like, do they HAVE to take baby away...and how soon I can have him back - cause I think it took WAY TOO LONG for nic to get to me) ... I like it that it lets you check out what your options are ahead of time, and you are not at the mercy of some random nurse who might care more that she only has 2 hours left on shift til she can go home and sleep and just give you the answer that is easiest for her... (i'm really an optimist, can't ya tell?)

Hope everyone had a merry christmas/happy hanakuh!

[juliemag]

myshel and happy1 - I'm so sorry you guys have been/are sick! I feel myself coming down with DH's cold from last week. Ick. Feel better quickly!!

tonys - looking good!! And I'm impressed you already put your travel system together! I'd probably do the same thing if I bought it. DH would be amused at me test driving it around our living room every night. ;)

lauren - I love the bedding!!


We cleaned up in the baby department for christmas! I got a hotsling(eee!), 2 diaper bags, several baby outfits, his first book - about firefighters (aww), and last night I ordered a Kozy carrier with some of the money I received from the in-laws. :D I was really excited to finally get some of the bigger items I'd wanted for a while.

Oh, forgot to add... my shower is scheduled for February 3rd! the countdown has begun!

Speaking of countdowns... I have one of those little baby countdown tickers on my desk, and today it says only 100 days left!! :eek:

[annielynn]

Looks like I wasn't the only one sick this past weekend!! It really was bad that I didn't feel like doing anything but I still had so much to do. I am so very exhausted from this weekend and I have no idea when I am going to fully recover. All in all it was a fun weekend though. My son was spoiled rotten by Santa, my family and my ILs. He had a great weekend.

I informed my DH that now that the HOlidays are almost over the next big project will have to begin. My son BIG BOY room. We have all the stuff that we need in order to commence we just couldn't find the time to actually get in the room and start clearing out. There is no excuse now. It has to be done. I am hoping that have it completed within the next few weeks so that we can start the transition of moving him. I know that it is giong to be a hard move. I just hoping that it isn't too stressful for him (or me!)

Julie WOW 100 days! You are almost in the double digits. That is just amazing. Time is just flying by now. Good going on the baby stuff. Isn't that the most fun?! I love buying baby things.

happy1nuv - sorry to hear about the stomach bug! I am sure that made for an interesting Christmas weekend.

myshel - I feel you pain hon! I hope that you kick that cold soon. Lots and lots of rest.

Tonysweetie - You look so great! Beautiful baby boy belly.

[happy1nuv]

annielyn ~ dh and i had the same conversation about getting serious about the big boy room... I know I've heard something about not moving dc within some window of when the new baby is coming home so they don't relate the two events... and i think we're cutting it close already... (gotta go find that info again) I'm hoping to move him in beginning Feb (dreaming, i Know)

[mar77]

Hello everyone...wow, I cannot believe how many posts there are since I was last logged on. I hope everyone had a great Christmas.
Yesterday, I had to leave work because I was awfully sick...I got a flu of some sort...it wasn't fun. I'm glad that I have been able to keep down my breakfast thus far.
We're leaving to go visit my parents in a few hours, which means that once I get there, I'll FINALLLY get to meet my nephew who was born on Dec 5th. I'm SO excited.

Married...I love the bedding that you chose...I had seen it on ebay and fell in love with it. Since I live in Canada, I wouldn't want to know how much duty that I'd be stuck paying if I were to order something from bedding and beyond.

[diedra1027]

I know I've heard something about not moving dc within some window of when the new baby is coming home so they don't relate the two events... Our ped told us to make any big changes at least 2 months before new baby arrives.

[annielynn]

Our ped told us to make any big changes at least 2 months before new baby arrives.

Thank you for that Diedra! That isn't a lot of time. At least this baby isn't due until the END of April so I have until the end of February to get his room done. I hope hope hope that I can get it all done before the end of January.

[Tonysweetie]

Had a doctors apt. this morning. Baby sounded great and DH loved hearing the heartbeat (that was his first time going w/me). He kept moving around. She said he sounds great and active! Then she measured my tummy and I'm measuring ahead of schedule. She said it means one of two things, either he is a big baby (will be 8 lbs. or more at birth :eek: ) or I could be developed diabetes during my pregnancy. I'm having my 1 hour GTT next week to see. I'm a little nervous about it now! She said either way it looks like I'll be having a schedule C-section. I'm a little bummed about it but as long as he comes out alive and healthy and I'm alright I can handle it. :) Were having another ultrasound to see how big he is when I hit the 3rd trimester. So our little man might be here earlier than we expected. Beginning of April is looks like! WHOA! Lots to do!!!

Next apt. January 24th. regular OB
GTT January 4th

Julie: How exciting about your shower! I think mine is the end of Feb. I'm so excited!!!!

I hope everyone had a wonderful and Happy New Year, we are leaving tomorrow for our trip. I'm going to be in that wedding this weekend, high heels and all wish me luck b/c I need it! LOL!

[MarriedaGoalie]

mar77: I only paid $6.95 for shipping and it was here within a week, so I am sure shipping it to Canada wouldn't actually be that much (from that company anyways). The bedding is REALLY affordable and an awesome quality, so I suggest looking into it if you like the look of it. :)

Sick: I've been very sick with some sort of a stomach virus or something. It was nasty... now I am just trying to rest up.

[lauren f s]

Thanks so much for the input on the bedding! I think I'm going to go ahead and order it.

Tonysweetie: Good luck with your GTT testing next week. Will you have any more u/s's to gauge the baby's size? I'm having one at my next appt and am hoping I'll get another closer to the end so we can decide if I need a c-section or will be okay delivering.

Sick: I'm so sorry so many of you have been sick lately :(. Rest up, drink lots of fluids, and I hope you feel better soon!

I'm EXHAUSTED and think I'm still recovering from the traveling done on Christmas. And I woke up this morning with an awful Charley horse - the second in 2 weeks. My leg still aches!

[Tonysweetie]

Tonysweetie: Good luck with your GTT testing next week. Will you have any more u/s's to gauge the baby's size? I'm having one at my next appt and am hoping I'll get another closer to the end so we can decide if I need a c-section or will be okay delivering.



Yes, were having another U/S to determine his size when I'm closer to 30 weeks.

[pg_jess]

I can hardly believe how fast time is passing. This baby is going to be here before we know it. It seems like there's so much to do and so little time...

We signed up for our childbirth class this week. We waited a bit long, so the class session we're in ends the week before my due date! :eek: I hope the baby isn't early because I won't have learned everything I need to learn!

Christmas has been fun this year. The boy isn't even here yet, and he's already getting gifts like crazy. DH and I are realizing just how quickly the now empty nursery is going to fill up.

Quick registry question...My shower has been scheduled for February 24th. I guess it's time to start thinking about registering. Does anyone know where to find a good list of registry basics? I know for our wedding there were lists of suggested items. I just want to make sure I don't forget anything important!

I hope everyone had a happy holiday season!!

[lil_nance]

My parents just left after spending a week with us. The house seems very quiet. Mom and I did some day after shopping and I bought some girl clothes. I got a few items from Carter's Bear Hugs line. Love them. Also got a few things on clearance. I got a nice maternity sweater for Christmas. Other than that, no baby stuff. Not sure if it's just normal for my family or because this is baby #2.
Like other RO's we need to get started on DS's big boy room. I bought bedding for the full bed about a month ago. However, one of DH's co-workers has a crib to give us. I'm planning on putting both in the room and then letting DS decide when he wants to move to the bed. Hopefully, he'll still like the bedding.

Sick Sorry to hear so many of you haven't been feeling well. I had a cold every other week from Nov-Feb. when pg with DS. Now that we're all healthy, I'm hoping we stay that way for at least a few wks, fingers crossed.

bedding Don't remember who posted the brown and blue bedding but I love it.

shower Ok, I'm kind of jealous in that I doubt we'll be getting a shower this time. Surpisingly we didn't get TONS of stuff with DS. We'll still need to get stuff for this baby. Specifically, I need a double stroller and a bouncer/rocker. I'm getting some hand-me-down clothes from friends so not sure what I'll need there.

New Year's Anyone doing anything? We'll be home but if any of you have a fun idea of how to celebrate, I'd love to hear it.

[diedra1027]

Does anyone know where to find a good list of registry basics?Babies r us has this new parents checklist (http://www.toysrus.com/registry/truParentsCheckList.jsp). It is quite extensive!!

[happy1nuv]

diedra ~ Thanks....good info to have. MUST get cracking on nic's bbr!

lilnance ~ We're staying in for new years. We're so lame... we're planning on ordering in chinese and renting a few movies. I'm not even expecting to be AWAKE at ball drop time...

[annielynn]

Our NYE will be a lot like happy1nuv's. We aren't planning on going anywhere. There is a possiblity that some of the ILs will be coming over but I just don't know yet. Most likely it will be a take out, a movie and nigh-night before midnight!

Showers - we aren't going to have a shower before this baby is born. We are going to have a quaint get together after he/she makes their appearance for everyone to meet the newest family member. We don't need a lot of things but I have started a regsitry for those family and friends that have asked what we would like to have.

Tonysweetie - So that little boy of yours is going to be a linebacker even before he is born huh?! I hope that you GTT comes back normal. Maybe he will even slow down his growth between now and then.

[myshel]

Thanks, ladies, for all of the get-well wishes. I'm feeling a lot better. I was able to grade a slew of papers yesterday in my jammies without falling asleep. Yay!

jess: Someone mentioned that BRUS has a good list of basics. I think Target has a "jumpstart" my registry option. If I were you, I'd register for everything you think you might need, because you never know what people will buy for you. I also wouldn't register for a lot of clothes. People seem to buy those things on their own.

Big Boy Room: We're slowly working on DS's big boy room. We decided last night that we may put the full size boxspring and mattress on the floor for a while until DS is ready for the frame. DH is deathly afraid of DS falling out of bed. I also need to buy some linens for the room, so it looks less like a guest room and more like DS's room.

Another Shower? I also highly doubt I'll be having another shower. I really wished someone would throw me one, because like Nancy, we just didn't get somethings that we needed with DS. In fact, we went very minimalist with DS when I wished we hadn't.

We were at a Christmas party two weeks ago with our friends when one of the women said, "This is great because you can have another baby shower!" I said, "Well, most of the time you don't get a shower for your second baby." There were a lot of groans and someone mentioned that I should have one because this baby is a girl. I kept thinking, that's great. One of you guys throw me a shower then. I doubt anyone will though. It's not like I can throw my onw, you know?

New Years Plans: We are going to a party at a friend's house. We'll be taking DS with us, and the guys will watch football and drink beer. I'm going to get a bottle of sparkling grape juice to toast with at midnight. If I fall alseep at the friend's house, it's okay.

Baby Dos Stuff: I bought one outfit after Christmas for DD. I haven't been able to buy much because of the due date factor. I'm due at the end of April; the weather where I live can be pretty wonky that time of year, so I don't want to get too many long sleeved items, which seems to be all they have in the store right now. I need to make a trip to the Carter's outlet and buy some things there.

I was genuinely surprised that no one got us anything for DD at Christmas. My mom got me a pink cat hand puppet and an angel bunny rattle, but that was it. I kind of figured that we'd get a few outfits or something because we did with DS (and he was a late July baby). No dice this time. Hmm...

Last night was the first time that DH got to see DD move. I was lying on the couch watching a Top Chef Marathon, and she started moving. :D

[lauren f s]

I was genuinely surprised that no one got us anything for DD at Christmas. My mom got me a pink cat hand puppet and an angel bunny rattle, but that was it. I kind of figured that we'd get a few outfits or something because we did with DS (and he was a late July baby). No dice this time. Hmm...

I think that's because it's the 2nd baby. At this point in my pregnancy with Ava I had boxes filled with clothes and gifts for her. This time, poor DS has a handful of sleepers and onesies and that's about it.

New Years: We're moving into our house! I don't expect we'll do anything too exciting because of that, so I think as of now we're planning on putting Ava to bed, ordering some take out, and watching a few movies. Not exciting, but it'll be nice to celebrate in our new home.

Baby Showers: I'm getting one at work in early March, but that's it. It's fine by me. We don't really need much aside from clothes anyway.

Tonysweetie: I'd see if you could get an u/s closer to the end, too. I had one with Ava at 24 weeks and another at 30 and she measured normal at both of those. Then when she was born she was almost 10 pounds! I'm having an u/s at my next appt and am insisting on another closer to the end. I'm fine with delivering a huge baby, but I'd like to know ahead of time just how big the kid will be so I can prepare myself ;). Good luck with yours! (BTW, I kind of liked having a big newborn; Ava didn't seem nearly as fragile as those I saw who were 7 & 8 pounds. It was nice.)

I'm having the worst time sleeping lately. I'll be exhausted all day long and can only think of crawling into bed, then once I do I can't go to sleep. It's like as soon as my head hits that pillow, I'm wide awake. I'm not enjoying it one bit!

[kimthebride]

Hi everyone!
We got back last night instead of this morning, because DH is a big wimp and couldn't stand the thought of getting up at 5am to make a 7am flight out of chicago. ;) But i am soooo glad to be home!!
Xmas was nice, though a bit hectic (aren't they always?) because we flew in Xmas Eve morning and that's the big day in his family's traditions.
The only annoying thing is that we may to ship all of his family's Xmas gifts there, then they got us some big stuff so it cost over $80 to ship our gifts back - Ouch! All that bargain shopping out the window. Ahhh, the holidays.

Xmas Gifts
DD got one big box of stuff from MIL - mostly Little Me (happy1 - I have to come down and shop there with you!). ALL of it pinkpinkpink. No suprise there, lol.
I did get one thing you all may appreciate: my SIL got me a coffee mug with a pregnant lady on it eating a bowl of icecream with 6 different scoops in it topped with pickles. It is so cute!
Oh, and I got a great t-shirt from Mimi Maternity (which MIL kept calling Mini Me Maternity, lol).
http://www.mimimaternity.com//Images/swatches/1293912swd.Jpg
It is the 3/4 Sleeve Crew and is now on sale. It is such a soft, comfortable material, nice long cut so you don't see the band of your maternity pants, and has a nice stretch to it to keep its shape. I may pick some more up for myself!

As for the REAL treat....DH got me a spa package at the Destination Maternity Edamame Spa in Manhattan! Its an hour massage then a wrap just for preggos. I. Can't. Wait. I think I'll line up a girlfriend to watch DS for the day and go make a lunch and me day of it before my bday. Woo hoo!


Baby Shopping
In Chicago they are closing a big department store called Carson's, so literally everything in the store is at least 25% off or more. I picked up some really, really cute things for the summer and fall for DD at great prices!
Before I left for Chicago I hit target, and also got some things there. I think I am officially into this pregnancy now, huh? :)

Big Boy Room
LOL! We need a house first, then I can think about a room.
My realtor is doing nothing to sell our condo, so today I need to call and see about switching. So annoying.

Shower #2
I found out recently a few of my girlfriends are throwing me a "sprinkle" ( ;) small 2nd shower). Its going to be very playgroup-y, my friends and their kids, though I'll invite my mom & MIL so they don't feel left out. Nothing big, but they are all so excited I am having a girl now, and as moms themselves agree that all pregnancies should be celebrated.
I really appreciate it, especially since how hard the 1st 5 months were for me. I was very touched when my friend told me about it.

Oh, and Happy1 & Nancy you are more than welcome to come join in the fun at mine! :) The more bumps, the better...I am happy to share some cake and presents with you two.

Registry Lists
Like the PP said, www.babiesrus.com has a helpful list with links:
http://www.toysrus.com/registry/truParentsCheckList.jsp
Though it doesn't hurt to talk to mom friends to see what you really do need.
www.BabyStyle.com has a nice list of tips and checklist as well:
http://www.babystyle.com/content/registry/registryTips.asp
http://www.babystyle.com/content/mustHaves/mustHaves.asp
When I made mine for DS, I cross-referenced these lists and asked my friends with kids what they needed, wanted, and got but never used. Then I'd look at WC (at the time) registry must-have lists and products suggestions, as well as the ratings on Amazon.com. It was a bit of a task, but in the end the research was really worth it for me. We used almost everything I got and were in need of very little.

New Year's Eve
It is the ONE holiday we tell all the family to bugger off. :p We lock the door, close the blinds, and just enjoy each other's presence at home every year. No travel, no parties, just us. Ahhhhh.....
I make ANYTHING for dinner we each want (its never the same meal for each of us), DH picks up wine/champagne (though not this year!), we eat and laugh and talk about our year..we watch the ball drop while cuddled on the couch. its a nice night.
We got engaged on NYE in our livingroom on one of these quiet celebrations, which makes it even more special and more of "our night".

Seeing The Kicks
Yesterday morning I could really see SO MANY kicks when just looking down at my belly! DD was rocking and rolling, my stomach was moving all over. It was so funny! This is about the same time it happened with DS - DH can't wait to see it as well.

Sick
I am so sorry so many of you are under the weather! Rest rest rest and eat your chicken soup ladies. Feel better soon.

tonysweetie
Good luck on your GTT...

lauren
I too had to go back and look for the pink, so its not to girly at all IMO! So cute you found suck well-coordinating sets. And if it was too girly, don't you think DH would say no way? Go for it!

[myshel]

I think that's because it's the 2nd baby. At this point in my pregnancy with Ava I had boxes filled with clothes and gifts for her. This time, poor DS has a handful of sleepers and onesies and that's about it.


You're probably right. I realized as I was sitting at the computer that I probably sound like a really selfish person. I'm honestly not like that IRL. I think I'm just being emotional and have some irrational issues regarding our families and how much they help/don't help us out.

[juliemag]

The kicks --- Kim, that very same thing happened to me yesterday! I laid on my couch for about 30 mins when I got home just staring at my bare belly. Little guy was moving around like CRAZY! I told DH I had alien belly going on.

[kimthebride]

I realized as I was sitting at the computer that I probably sound like a really selfish person. I'm honestly not like that IRL. I think I'm just being emotional and have some irrational issues regarding our families and how much they help/don't help us out.

I didn't think you sounded selfish at all. I think back to how SO FREAKING EXCITED everyone was when we were pg with DS: presents, calls, emails, requests to see and feel my belly all the time...it was never ending. And my shower? Forget it! It was this big sit-down fancy luncheon and I got pretty much everything on my registry and then some.
Now, some people are excited but mostly because its a girl this time. Not a lot of girl babies lately in the family (especially DH's). But still, not a great reaction when I told MIL about the sprinkle my friends are throwing. My one box from the ILs for DD had a handful of pinkpinkpink lounngers in it and my mom got me 1 toy lamb. With DS I got tons before the shower was even planned!

[myshel]

Thanks for making me feel better, Kim. :) If you knew our families, you might understand why I feel the way I do. My mom was super excited because this baby is a girl, but doesn't really show it other than saying how great it will be to finally have a little girl. My ILs are pretty... interesting people. They think nothing of handing $$$ to SIL when she's out of money, but love to tell us that we're doing such a good job of making it on our own. Oh well.

To make myself feel better, I ordered some clothes from Children's Place-- a sleeper and onesies for DD and some t-shirts and camo pants for DS. I also ordered a bed-in-a-bag for DS's big boy room. DH, who is notoriously tight fisted with money, didn't say a thing. ;)

[lauren f s]

Myshel: You don't sound selfish at all! I feel the same way, esp. with my family. Yes, Ava was the first grandchild so there was tons of excitement over her, but I get upset because my family hardly acknowledges my pregnancy with DS. I feel like it's not as big of a deal for them because he's not the first (like Ava) and he's not the first boy (like my nephew), he's just another grandkid. I know I'm being irrational about it, but it hurts a little. Good for you for buying some goodies for DD - and for your DH for not saying a word when you bought it all :).

Kim: You're right about the bedding, though I did threaten DH with pink bedding and he just shrugged his shoulders :rolleyes:.

Kicking: I've noticed that DS is really kicking up a storm lately. I start laughing when he does and my stomach starts bouncing all over the place. One of my customers at work (I work in internet sales & marketing for a furniture import company) gave me a gift card to Starbucks for Christmas and I stopped by this morning for a drink. Poor baby got quite a kick start once I started my drink. I think I may need to stick with decaf for the little guy's sake ;).

[annielynn]

Myshel - You are not selfish and you don't sound it either! ;)

Kicking - I forgot to mention that just two nights ago was the first time that DH was able to feel little one kick. I could just tell by the look in his eyes and the smile on his face that it all became just that much more real to him. I love it!

[MarriedaGoalie]

Kicking: Forget kicking... the little guy is moving my entire stomach around. I swear he rolls over just for the heck of it. It is funny because you will see my belly get big on one side and then see him flop over and then it be big on the other side. Its such a cool feeling (although not so much when you're already sick to your stomach... with the flu or whatever it is that I have).

[lauren f s]

Married: I'm so sorry you're feeling sick! Being sick is bad enough, but sick while pregnant and not being able to take anything good is the worst! I hope you're able to get lots of rest and feel better soon!

[April07Mamas]

Updated to here!

[lil_nance]

happy1 take out Chinese for NYE actually sounds great. Maybe I'll have a snack and then plan a living room picnic after we put DS to bed

kim I love the idea of a "sprinkle" too cute. Would love to join you too. I really think us NJ gals need to get together in the next few months. You can reach me via "mizuzd at optonline dot net".

myshel you don't sound selfish. I understand family issues. I love my parents but sometimes feel that their retirement travel is more important than a new granddaughter.

big babies I for one, don't want a big baby. DS was 6lb 11oz. So far I'm not expecting DD to be much different. I think if I had a bigger baby, I'd have to have a c-sect. As it was they used vacuum with DS. And he sure grew quick enough once he was here. Babies get so heavy so quick.

[happy1nuv]

Kim ~ Anytime you wanna do the outlets, just lemme know :) And, I love the idea of a "sprinkle" too... It sounds like fun! Ditto lilnance on us Jersey gals getting together...

myshel ~ You don't sound selfish at all... family can be tricky sometimes! Ya just gotta roll your eyes and chalk it up to whatever sometimes...

kicking ~ This lil one kicks ALL.THE.TIME. I LOVE it...but it can get hard to sleep sometimes when he's overly energetic...

I start going to the drs every 2 weeks now. It seems WAY too soon for that... argh. MUST get my act in gear... the good news from todays appt is that I passed the gtt and am still borderline anemic (but not enough to have to take iron, yay!!) They also gave me a sheet that I have to sign off on about vbac vs. repeat elective c-section. The beginning of the sheet is really positive, but towards the end it got scary... if I didn't read a bunch on my own, I might be scared into a repeat c...UGH! (gotta LOVE cc)

[MarriedaGoalie]

Just dropping off my 26 week belly shot (26w6d by new due date calculations).

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/161/336848227_ec7d0d69a0.jpg?v=0

[lauren f s]

Great belly shot Married!

We're moving into our house this weekend! I'm so excited, but of course today it's storming outside and we're under a tornado watch. Figures :rolleyes:. I'm hoping it'll clear up overnight so we can have some decent weather while going back and forth tomorrow. I'm on unpacking only duty and my 3 BIL's are going to help DH with the actual moving, so I'm thinking I should fix them a nice dinner as a thank you. I probably won't have the energy and will end up ordering pizzas, but that's still dinner ;). I'm just thrilled to get into our own place and to start getting ready for the baby! Until now we keep saying we'll do baby stuff after the move and now the move is finally here, so I'm ready to get started on baby stuff!

QOTD
Do you work out of the home? If so, how long is your maternity leave?

I'm curious :). I stayed home with Ava for 2 years and loved it, then came back to work a year ago. I work for a really great company - we import furniture, fireplaces, and home accessories to websites (Overstock.com, etc), catalogs (JC Penny), and stores (Bed, Bath, & Beyond, etc) - but am not thrilled with my maternitiy leave. I'll get 2 weeks full pay, then 4 weeks partial (20 hrs, vs 40). I shouldn't complain because they don't have to offer me anything, but I was hoping for more.

[juliemag]

QOTD - I work out of the home, yes. My maternity leave allows me to take 12 weeks, of which 6 are at 75% pay for vaginal birth, 8 are at 75% for c-section. The rest of the time off is either a) unpaid, or b) paid using vacation or personal time. I'm probably going to use at least 2 of the weeks as personal time so I can get a paycheck.

lauren - good luck with the move!

married - lookin good mama!

[myshel]

Married: Cute belly shot!

Lauren: Good luck with the move. I think pizza is a great thank you dinner for a move. That's pretty standard in our social circle. The guys turn out to help with the move, and the women show up with pizza and beer!

QOTD: Technically, I have 12 weeks to use through FAML. In reality, though, I really only have the amount of sick days I have stockpiled over the last few years. I teach HS, so I was lucky with DS. He was born in the summer, so I used only four days of sick leave to cover the week of in-service that I only attended sporadically. That said, I still went back at 5 weeks pp. This time around, DD is due at the end of April. I have enough time stored up to see me through the end of the school year. Then, of course, I'll have the summer. Thank God for the summer.

Heartburn is kicking my butt right now. UGH!

[kimthebride]

QOTD
Nope, I am a SAHM (aka: full time personal assistant to a very short & demanding boss).

lauren
Good luck with your move! I am so excited for you and jealous of you. ;)

TMI PSA Of The Day: Yeast Infections During Pregnancy
Okay, maybe I am the only clueless one out there, but i have had recurring external YI's since I concieved and just figured they were reactions/irritations caused by the different soaps and lotions and stuff I use all the time (I do have sensitive skin).

After a TERRIBLY uncomfortable flight home Wed. night from the IL's, I got in touch with my OB. He diagnosed an external YI and for me to take Monistat 7 externally only for the full 7 days.

Now...apparently pregnancy throws all sorts of things off balance and can cause YI's both internally or externally quite easily. Here's some info to help you all, since I wish I knew this about ohhhhhhh 5 months ago!

Internal vs External
We all have heard of the itchy, burning, discomfort of an internal YI and the cottage-cheese-like discharge. However, you can have one that's only external, causing itching, pain, hotness, and a leather-like texture to the vaginal folds. You may not even have any discharge.

How To Prevent & Treat
- Eat yogurt with the active acidophilus bacteria in it daily
- Dry off compeltely after bathing, before dressing
- Wipe front to back after using the toilet, and make sure you fully pat yourself dry
- If using pantyliners, change them frequently throughout the day
- wear 100% cotton underwear with a cotton crotch/gusset
- Avoid eating too much sugar or processed foods
- Wash underwear in hot water and avoid fabric softener
- Don't douche
- use only water-soluable lubricants during sex
- don't use any feminine sprays or wipes or perfumes in the genital area
- Avoid clothing that is tight in the crotch, including too-snug underwear

[MarriedaGoalie]

Thanks ladies!! This must be the time when I am supposed to start getting stretch marks because everyone is so surprised that I don't have them yet... don't worry... at the rate this little guy is growing, I will have them SOON!! :(

Maternity Leave: I haven't really discussed it with my employer yet. I definitely get 6 weeks of paid maternity leave, but I am petitioning for more if I work part time from home. We'll see what they offer up! :)

[lil_nance]

Names BabyZone has published their 100 most popular names for 2006. http://www.babyzone.com/pregnancy/babynames/a2308

DS's name (Connor) is #17 and Avery which is high on our list for DD is also #17. DH and I started dating on the 17th, we got engaged on the 17th. Needless to say, 17 is an important number for us. Hmmm...think someone is trying to tell us something.

drinking;) I got too dehydrated today. I know better but was running errands. So now, I'm trying to guzzle water but just not enjoying it. What else is everyone drinking to stay hydrated?

QOTD Like Kim, I too answer to a short demanding boss who lately has had a bit of a temper.

lauren Good luck with the move. Fingers crossed for good weather.

[diedra1027]

Names BabyZone has published their 100 most popular names for 2006. http://www.babyzone.com/pregnancy/babynames/a2308

DS's name (Connor) is #17 and Avery which is high on our list for DD is also #17. DH and I started dating on the 17th, we got engaged on the 17th. Needless to say, 17 is an important number for us. Hmmm...think someone is trying to tell us something.Well, I love the name Avery. I'm more than a little biased though ;). The Social Security stats for 2005 have Avery in the sixties (62 or 66, I can't remember which) for girl babies.

[Tonysweetie]

Hey girls! I don't have time for replies right now. I'm at a hotel in TN. Tomorrow I'm going to be in a wedding and let me tell ya I'm exhausted just from the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. High heels + pregnancy = pain! lol. The baby did so well on the plane. I thought during the flight I was going to get sick or something but man he kicked up a storm. I could finally feel it through my clothes. It was awesome! He's been active ever since, hehe. I love it! Well I hope everyone has a very Happy and safe New Year!!!! God Bless!!!

[kimthebride]

MarriedAGoalie
You never know! My belly was MASSIVE with DS and I never got a single belly stretch mark. I am hoping for the same thing this time. You have one cute bump. :)

BabyZone Names 2006
Geezo.
Now my favorite name that I wanted to give my daughter since I was a teenybopper is now #2 and #6 on the list. :rolleyes: Dammit! Its just bugging me that the original name I had in mind for the last 20 years will now be every other kid's name....

lil_nance
Avery is such a nice name...I thought of that as an alternative to Ava, but it doesn't sound quite right with our last name. And the 17 thing is cute! My parents did that with my name:
- They met on the the 19th
- 1st date on the 19th
- Married on the 19th
- 1st house address was #19
- They added an extra "e" to my name so I had 19 letters in it

tonysweetie
Hang in there! I went to a wedding this fall and at my table alone one of the girls there was actually 2 days past due, one was 4 months along, one was 5 months along, and I was 2 weeks along. And we all managed to have a good time. :)

lauren
I saw the tornado on the news this morning and got more worried about you. i hope you are okay!

Watch This!
Father of the Bride 2 is on TBS right now. I love this every time!

[happy1nuv]

babyzone names ~ Ok... it says that they are from babyzone subscribers... was wondering because a book I have published in 2005 says the name nicholas is #8 and babyzone says its #25... was wondering what the discrepancy was... (yep, just can't let it go - WHY do I have to fixate on names I can't have this pregnancy...)

:)

[mar77]

I'm glad to see that everyone is doing pretty well.

I got the flu on the 26th, and let me tell you, was it ever nasty. It first reminded me of M/S...and I wasn't too happy about that...but then it got worst. I wasn't even able to keep down water or crackers. Glad that's over.

Maternity Leave...I live in Canada and I get one full year off. :D

Baby Moving...I still feel flutters and such, but nothing of what some of you are experiencing. I can't wait to see my stomach go all ALIEN on me.

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!

[MarriedaGoalie]

mar77: I feel for you on the flu thing... I also got the flu on the 26th and had it for about 2 days before I really recovered from it. That stuff is nasty and I don't wish that upon ANYONE, but especially if you are pregnant. Its NOT fun!

[pg_jess]

Happy New Year, everyone!

I've been feeling so much movement lately, but the best was a couple of days ago when I felt an actual appendage of some form. :) I have no idea what it was, maybe an elbow or a knee or something like that, but it moved across my belly right as I had my hand resting there and it was amazing. But of course, the entire time we were visiting family for the holidays, the silly baby refused to move or kick for anyone. Already so stubborn...

QOTD - Maternity Leave
DH and I just sat down the other day to figure all of this out. I can take up to 12 weeks. First I use up all my sick leave (full pay). When that runs out, I have differential pay (daily rate minus what it takes to pay a daily substitute) for a bit. The differential pay starts the day the baby is born and lasts for 6 weeks (or 8 for c-section). I'll probably get 1-2 weeks of differential pay before it runs out. Anything after that is unpaid leave. It has taken me FOREVER to understand all of this. And the differential pay kills me because in my position I don't need a sub. But because I'm considered a teacher (on assignment at the district office), that's how it works.

DH and I figured out we can probably afford for me to be out a couple of weeks unpaid. If the baby comes on time (April 4) I won't go back until June 1 and I'll work 3 weeks before being on summer vacation until August. We're trying to avoid having to put him in daycare until the end of the summer. My sister plans to come out for 2 weeks in the beginning of June and can watch the baby while I'm at work. But if he comes early, we'll have to scramble to figure something out. Fortunately I think both of our employers will be flexible with that. Still, the whole thing freaks me out a little!

Baby Names
Avery was the name we had picked out for a girl. For our boy, we're going with Ethan. I think it's something like #3 according to babyzone. We originally wanted something less popular, but ended up really liking the name Ethan so we went with it!

Registry Update
Thanks, everyone, for the registry checklist help. DH and I spent 2 hours in BRU Friday night starting our registry. INSANE! I did buy the Baby Bargains book, and I can't recommend it highly enough. It was a HUGE help to us. I took it with me to the store and looked things up as we were registering. It was a godsend. Thanks again for the suggestions!

[MarriedaGoalie]

I need some help from the ROs. I am planning on breast feeding with my little guy and while trying to register, I came across the breast pumps and other breast feeding supplies. I have absolutely no idea which breast pump I should purchase or what other supplies I will need. Any help would be appreciated! Thank you! :)

[SarahKatG]

MarriedaGoalie, the breast pump that would suit you best depends on a lot of things, like how often you plan to pump (going back to work? get a good electric. Occasional bottles? a manual would do.) and how much you want to spend. Personally, I really recommend the Ameda Purely Yours. It's an electric that rivals the Medela in quality but costs a good bit less. I worked out of the home with DD, so I nursed her on demand and didn't have a huge need for a pump, but I still loved it. It worked fast and was comfortable.

Other supplies that you might need right away would include breast pads (I had an abundant supply of milk and leaked for probably 6 months), Lanisoh (used to help protect sore nipples the first days/weeks), and a boppy (or two). Other things you might end up wanting are storage bags for your milk if you plan to pump much (I again recommend Lanisoh brand bags) and bottles for giving pumped milk. Don't buy too many of any one particular bottle, though, you'll find babies have their own preferences on bottle types.

Hope this helps!

[Sunshine]

I just wanted to stop by since I have been gone for over a week and wish everyone a HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Our baby's will be born this year!

I have been since the 26th and will be going to see my doctor this morning to make sure I dont have an infection of some sort. I sure feel miserable:(

Anyways...hope everyone is well!

[kimthebride]

Breastfeeding Supplies
This will def vary from mom to mom, but for since I'm getting organized for myself I'll let you know what I am pulling out of storage and stocking up on new:
- Pump: Medela Pump In Style Advanced (I was happy with the quality of my single electriic medela, but wish I bought this one from the start!)
- Boppy & washable cover
- Breast pads for leaking
- Lansinoh lanoline for nipples (seriously, a Godsend!)
http://www.lansinoh.com/siteimg/topical_cat.gif
- Soothies (cooling things to help sore nipples)
http://www.soothies.com/images/common/box.gif
- Breast ice packs (for alleviating pain from engorgement or Mastitis)
http://a1468.g.akamai.net/f/1468/580/1d/pics.drugstore.com/prodimg/95372/200.jpg
- www.HooterHiders.com nursing cover (love mine, since I am so modest)
http://www.bebeaulait.com/gallery/8.jpg
- Milk organizers for the freezer like this:
http://www.onestepahead.com/images//product/family/11490-v.jpg
- Milk storage bags that are safe for freezer or fridge

As for bottles, there is zero rhyme or reason as to why your kid will like one over the next. I'd just go to target and pick up 1 of a few kinds of bottles with different nipples and see what goes over well.

[lil_nance]

Breastfeeding supplies I agree with pp for general supplies especially Lanisoh. For a pump I had the Avent Isis. It's manual, it works but is a PIA. It took 2 hands, one to hold it on securely and one to pump. Also manual pumps can take forever. I'll use it again because this will be our last kid and I can't really see buying an electric for occasional pumping since I'm a SAHM. But, I might change my mind. I also liked having nursing tops. Target tanktops are great but run small. I also have a few Expressiva and Motherwear tops. I found Expressiva to fit a bit better. If you register on their sites, they'll send you emails about sales.

Happy New Year!

[michael'sbride]

Happy New Year everyone!

We had a quiet celebration with our neighbors last night. I've finally started my prep work for this baby boy, given that as of today I have 100 days until my due date. This has always been a big milestone for me and I'm starting to feel the pressure. I purchased the baby's bedding this weekend from PBK. I went with the Baby Boats Bedding:

http://www.potterybarnkids.com/pkimgs/ab/images/products/200652/0004/img99l.jpg

I was originally looking for something more broad but we decided to move DS #1 into another bedroom and give the baby his room so I had to pick something that worked with the colors that are already in that room. This will do just fine.

We also bought the older boys their bedroom furniture. We never bought DS #1 a bed or dresser as we were using my younger brother's hand-me-downs. I will need the baby furniture from DS #2 for this baby so we figured that we could get both boys new sets at once. I also bought them bedding so we will be doing a bunch of moving and redecorating in the next few weeks.

I found DS #3's coming home outfit right before Christmas. It is the same brand that we brought each of the other two home in. Its an adorable baby blue sleeper with matching blanket.

Here is DS #1:
Removed

This is DS #2:
Removed

I also found a pair of my favorite baby booties at The Children's Place for $2.99. These are the ONLY things, including socks, that I could get to stay on Evan's feet. I love them and thought we could definatly use another pair for this guy.:
http://content.childrensplace.com/www/b/TCP/images/styles/547573_m.jpg

I feel like I accomplished a lot this week. Once the rooms are moved around I'll be ready. I am going to order the Petunia Pickle Bottom Coco Roll Touring Tote just for myself. I feel like I deserve a splurge since I don't really need anything else for this guy.

http://www.angeliboutique.com/images/coconut-roll-tt.jpg


I want to start a second post to answer with the breastfeeding supplies question. But I have another question first... Has anyone felt their baby have the hiccups yet? This guy will get them at least 3-4 times a day. It's nuts!

[michael'sbride]

Breastfeeding Supplies

As kimthebride said above, this will vary from Mom to Mom but hopefully hearing what worked for others will be helpful.

For DS #1 I was determined to BF but I wasn't prepared to spend $300 plus on a pump in the chance that it just didn't work. I decided to rent a hospital grade pump from the women's store at our hospital for the three months that I was home on maternity leave. We ended up having a successful BFing relationship and right about the time I was going back to work I took all the gift cards that I had received at my showers and bought a Medela PIS Advanced Backpack.

I work out of the home so I really needed a quick dual pumping system and this pump has been great to me through both of my kids. I also have a manual hand pump (just a cheapo medela one) for times when I needed to pump quietly and on the fly. I can think of two or three occasions when I was glad I spent the few dollars to just have the flexibility.

I will also add the recommendation for Lansinoh. Not only do I recommend buying it but using it regularly in those first three or so weeks is imperative. I makes a difference, trust me!

I would recommend purchasing some disposable breastpads but I love the cotton and fleece washable ones so much better. You would be surprised how much noise thos disposable ones made. I could use whatever at home but at work, the cotton ones were better.

That brings me to my all time favorite and most highly recommended breastfeeding supply... I sware by LilyPadz! I found these with DS #2 and I don't know how I lived without them. Here's a pic of how they work (I hope this is ok to post...):

http://www.lilypadz.com/use.jpg

My DH calls them "pasties" and thats kind of what they are. If you put them on correctly they suppress the nipple and really keep you from leaking at all. Not to say that I never leaked but these somehow managed to keep the milk inside the suction area until I could get to a bathroom. I never had any milk leak out onto my clothes.

They were also good (and safe to use) with Lansinoh. I found with my first baby that if I didn't use a breastpad with the Lansinoh I would get greasy spots on my nursing bras. When I used the Lansinoh with the LilyPadz I never had that problem. They helped tremendously with sore nipples because there was never any rubbing on clothes or nursing pads to make my tender nipples worse. They virtually invisible under clothes. I really can't say enough about them, in fact, I have gifted them to all of my pregnant friends as well.

My last recommendation is to get a bunch of nursing sleep bras:

http://www.motherhoodnursing.com/Images/Products/9709.jpg

These were great while I was home and in my lounge around clothes. They were so easy to nurse in, no latches or hooks to worry about. I have a bunch of regular nursing bras but these were so great for around the house. I would sleep in one every night (with my LilyPadz underneath) and I always felt comfortable. I must have 10 or more of them and to this day I'll still slip one on throughout the weekend and under my PJ's or Tee Shirts. They've been the most resuable thing I bought. I used them right from the start, even in the hospital. I remember feeling weird about fussing with the nursing bra clips with DS #1 when I had even bigger problems with him latching or eating even. These bras made me so much less focused on what I was wearing and more focused on the baby. To say that everything makes a difference in those first few days in an understatement.

One additional thing that I purchased that is more for the working Mom than anything, I could never stomach putting my breastmilk in the refrigerator at work and I never really relied much on the ice pack in my pump so I purchased a small refrigerator for under my desk at work and I would store my milk and pumping horns in it every day. It was great to know that no one was snooping around in my bag.

I'm sure that's enough information for one night. :-)

[happy1nuv]

michaelsbride ~ Where do you get your lillypadz from? They sound wonderful... and, what kind of bras are those?

BF supplies:
I went with the Ameda purely yours breastpump. Totally recommend it! I got the backpack one, and it has a car charger (which I actually used more than I thought I would although pumping while dh drove took a bit of practice to do comfortably), and a cooler (which, even though I'm not still bf'ing I use weekly -- its a great size and has 3 ice packs - one for each side sans the top)

Nursing bras ~ Don't skimp. I bought my first round of nursing bras at walmart because they were cheap. Ummm, yeah. Cheap for a reason. They are uncomfortable and rub at the armpit..ouch! (They were returnable if unopened though, so they weren't bad to buy ahead of time and take to the hospital). But, I would suggest getting just one in a cup size ahead and taking that to the hospital...then order more online or send dh out for some when you know what size you'll need...

TOTALLY recommend the lasinoh.

Like everyone says... everyone has different opinions on stuff... Like, I know Kim LOVED hooterhiders, but I thought they were a pain in the neck. When Nic was little and it took a while, I did like to nurse him in the ring sling in public (it has lots of extra fabric built in to cover up with) but that got old really quick and I found it was best to just use nothing but cover up with my hand in between latch on/off. It's really a comfort thing (and, nic was always a boob guy -- he didnt get distracted by other stuff easily) If you sew at all, i know theres a great site with instructions on how to make your own really cheap -- ill look it up if anyone is interested...

In the beginning I lived in nursing tanks -- put a shirt over them and you are covered above and below. After the tummy went down a lil bit, I was more comfortable with not NEEDING a tank under my clothes...

[michael'sbride]

happy1 The nursing bras are from Motherhood, I think they are about $11 a piece. I ordered my lilypadz from BabyCenter.com, IIRC you can get them for <$20 if you shop around online.

[juliemag]

Wow, thanks for the great tips on BFing supplies mama's! Question - where can I get Lansinoh?

[myshel]

Nursing Tanks: Where did those of you who have them order them from? I didn't order any with DS because I was nervous about BFing. I would love to have a few that are nice.

[kimthebride]

Question - where can I get Lansinoh?
Target and almost any drugstore.

ITA with happy1 about paying for quality nursing bras. Buy 1, make sure you like the fit and ease of use, then go get more of the same. What annoys me is how some places have a no-return/exchange policy on them when they are such a personal thing to get right and aren't very cheap!

For the hospital and until my milk settled so I knew how big my boobs were planning to stay, I found these pretty darn comfortable (also for sleeping & lounging around the house):
Medela Comfort Bra at Mimi Maternity
http://www.medela.com/graphics/CmftWtBraFeatW.jpg

And since I never got the hang of the top-clip type of nursing bras while in public, I preferred the ones that snap in the middle (again, totally a personal preference!). I waited to buy these when my milk/boobs settled down after a few weeks - buy too big and they are droopy, too small and the snaps pop open:
Seamless Snap-Front Nursing Bra @ Mimi Maternity
http://www.mimimaternity.com/Images/Products/9148.jpg

I always wondered about those Lily Padz - thanks for the review!

[lil_nance]

michael's bride where did you get furniture for DS #1&2? We just started looking for a dresser for Connor's big boy room. I like Rumble Tuff but it's not cheap.

nursing bras I'll second the sleep bras from Motherhood. They are so comfy. I bought them at the end of my nursing relationship and wish I had got them sooner. My favorite daytime bra was actually a cheap sport style from Walmart. I fastened in the back and had normal nursing clips. I really liked it. I also have a YES! bra but didn't like that it's a pull-over style.

DH has a bit of a cold. He hates admitting he's sick. He finally said something the other morning when I asked for the zillionth time. Of course by then, he'd kissed me a few times just to spread those germies around. So now, I'm trying to fight off a cold. Had a HUGE headache and stuffiness last night. I feel better this morning but still have a scratchy throat. Ahhh....love. :mad:

[happy1nuv]

Oh... and just to add to what Kim was saying... wash it too! I had a GREAT nursing bra (forget from who) but it was soooo comfy... I washed it once, and it fit weird from then on. I was glad that dh didnt get a chance to get me more before I found that out. (nursing tanks on the other hand, are GREAT for the beginning because it doesn't matter what size you are).

[michael'sbride]

lil nance We ordered their sets from Rooms To Go Kids.

We got this bed and a high 5-drawer dresser (not shown) for DS #1:

http://s7ondemand1.scene7.com/is/image/roomstogo/br_rm_8603397p?$RoomMedium_250x175$

And this bed in a twin (with trundle) and a high 5-drawer dresser (not shown) for DS #2:

http://s7ondemand1.scene7.com/is/image/roomstogo/br_rm_8550970p?$RoomMedium_250x175$

Both of the bed's were $399 and both of the dresser's were $599. I hope they'll have them for MANY years to come.

[annielynn]

Happy New Year!!

Always a little slow on the upswing but I have to agree with the supplies for BF. The Lansinoh was the best purchase that my DH ever made. I sent him to the drug store the day I was leaving the hospital and he had bought that for me. Smart man! :)

I don't have a lot of advice on the nursing bra though. I am a well endowed lady and I had the hardest time finding bras a couple of years ago. I ended up having to order all of them because none of the ones in the stores ever fit me right. And talk about expensive! I am not looking forward to ordering those again this year. ;)

[MarriedaGoalie]

Thanks for all the advice ladies. I will definitely look it all over as I make my purchasing decisions!

Hiccups: Yes!! I felt it for the first time on New Year's Eve... it was just a steady bunch of movements in my stomach. Its kind of a cool feeling!

[lauren f s]

Happy New Year! I hope you all celebrated and have started this year off well :).

We're officially moved in and I am pooped. We had nasty weather on Friday, lots of rain and power flickering off & on, but we managed to come out of it okay. All day Saturday was spent loading a Uhaul and I've been steadily working since Sunday on unpacking. We're almost finished; we just have DS's bed to set up and a few boxes of toys that will most likely stay put up for the time being. Moving while pregnant stinks! Good luck Kim, when you guys get your place sold and get ready to move.

Breastfeeding: I think everyone so far has suggested all the things I would. I have an Ameda Purely Yours pump and love it. It's quick, quiet, and very efficient. I didn't use it much with Ava, but since I'll be working once this baby is here I plan to put it to good use.

[lil_nance]

Hiccups I started feeling them this week. With DS I felt them ALL the time. It's fun at first but gets very tiring after a while.

michael's bride thanks for the furniture info

[happy1nuv]

hiccups ~ havent felt them yet, but this baby is ALWAYS on the go. im not bothering with kick counts because all i have to do is sit down and baby starts moving...

[annielynn]

Lauren I am happy to hear that you almost done with your move. Moving while PG does suck... a lot. We moved when I was 36 weeks PG with Jack. I hated it. Mostly because all I heard from my friends and family was "no", "don't move that box", "don't you dare lift that." It was really aggravating. And the make it worse was trying to unpack. They wanted to help so badly but I didn't know where to tell them to put things! I will never do that again.

hiccups - I never felt them with #1 and so far I haven't felt them this time around. We shall see what the future holds.

[lauren f s]

Annie: I don't know how you moved at 36 weeks, moving at 26 was awful! I kept getting told not to lift anything, not to bend over, etc and hated feeling so helpless. I won't move while pg again - it's the worst!

Hiccups: I don't think I ever felt them with Ava, but have felt them a little with DS. I had some Starbucks over the weekend and he either had hiccups shortly afterward or the caffeine really freaked him out ;).

[kimthebride]

Hiccups
None so far.

lauren
I was thinking about you! Glad you are all settled in now. Though with each week I know it gets more difficult, I REALLY hope we get buyers soon and move to a house before DD's arrival.

Selling & Moving
We just dropped our condo selling price and I "had words" with my realtor to get a plan in place and let her know exactly how aggressive and motivated she needs to be. I really, really, really hope this hlpes our cause. DH & I are going to go look at some houses later this. Ugh - I pray it all falls into place.

michael's bride
Love all that furniture! You have great taste. Can you please shop for me when we get a house? :)

Nursing Tanks
You know, I never found them supportive enough so I wore regular shelf-bra tank tops around the house and as pj's. When I needed to nurse, I just slipped the strap over my shoulder.
If anyone has good, supportive nursing tank recc's I'll definitely take them!

Baby Carrier
I picked this up when in Chicago over Thanksgving, and have been using it with DS for just the walk to the car etc.
Rockin' Baby Pouch
http://www.rockinbabysling.com/shop/baby_pouches/images/342copy_001.jpg
http://www.rockinbabysling.com/shop/baby_pouches/
So far, I LOVE IT! I tried a bunch of carriers when DS was born, and wasted so much money. So with DD I wanted an adjustable sling like this, and my Active Bjorn. I think I am covered now, because I am really pleased with this so far.
Here's a few tidbits on this one:
- reversible
- comes in lots of patterns/colors
- machine wash/tumble dry
- adjustable via hidden zippers
- has light 'rail' padding on one side for comfort...but not too much
- has velcro'd pocket where you can tuck a diaper or burp cloth in "to go"
- Newborn-35lbs
- All postions: sling, front inward, front kangaroo, hip and back carry

Belly Shot This Week

She's so much lower than DS was, and it feels really different. By now with him my right lower ribcage ached and I started becoming limited as to how much I could eat in one sitting. But with her I'm only feeling a dull ache on my hoo-ha, like when DS dropped. I can eat to my heart's contect ;) .

Though both kids seem to prefer the right side! If you push my belly on the left it's nothing, unless she's reaching over. But my right side is All. Baby.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/150/344247174_7280947f26.jpg?v=0

[juliemag]

Kim - I love that baby carrier! I received a similar one from www.hotslings.com, although it is fitted, and not adjustable.

I've gone sort of nuts over getting carriers for this baby. I also purchased a Kozy carrier (www.kozycarrier.com), and a ring sling (www.sleepingbaby.net). Figured if he didn't take to them, then I could just re-sell them when the time comes.

Hiccups - Hmm... not sure if I'm feeling them or not! I hadn't really thought about it. I guess I'll have to pay more attention and see. :p

Nursing bras - i'm glad to see all the recommendations on nursing bras. I'll probably pick up one or two of the adjustable formless ones at first... until my body settles on what size it wants to be. It's NOT looking good so far... in terms of my chest stopping growing. Last week I ventured into the 38 DD realm. Its painful to even type that!! ugh.

Nursery - We are hoping to start work on our nursery this weekend! The place where we bought the crib from, and where we've been storing it for the last 2 months, very nicely called and asked us to come and get it finally. So we'll likely do that on Saturday, plus try to get some painting done. I'll post pictures when things start to come together.

[lauren f s]

Julie: How exciting to get to put your nursery together this weekend!!

Kim: Good luck getting the house sold! I really hope it happens quickly now that you've had a talk with you realtor :).

Pelvic Pressure: Kim mentioned it, anyone else have it? I am, big time! I didn't have it at all with Ava, so this is new and uncomfortable for me.

Cravings: I have a list of new ones that I can't get enough of. Our house is minutes from a Sonic and if we are driving anywhere near it, we *must* stop for a Cherry Limeade. It's all I can think about drinking. I may have to stop after work and get one! I'm also craving peanut butter cookies. I made some on Monday and can't seem to get enough :o.

[happy1nuv]

pelvic pressure ~ Yup, and oh so annoying! I didn't have any with ds either, so this is new and so not welcome! And... I dont even think this child is that low, so whats up with that!!!!

Kim ~ How in the WORLD are you using a pouch with Thomas NOW??? All of my baby wearing stuff has been (very sadly) retired for weeks now... (I totally MISS them!)

[michael'sbride]

I had my GTT today, wish me luck!

My OB has moved me to two week appointments and I have an U/S scheduled for Feb 1 to estimate the size. I can't believe how fast time is going by.

[wendstress]

Pelvic Pressure - So glad to hear I'm not the only one! It sucks.

Michael's Bride - Good luck! I actually thought the orange drink was pretty good... My GTT is next week.

Nursing Bras - Advise to all first timers - if nothing else, at least have a couple night time bras on hand before baby comes home! I remember my first night at home like yesterday.... Milk dripping down my shirt, and having a newborn that wasn't the most efficient nurser yet. He was crying, I was crying.... I got a night time bra the next day and everything improved!

Belly - I popped over the Holidays. Several people at work told me this week, "Oh, I didn't realize you were Pregnant." Can't hide it anymore!

From my journal.... another trip to L&D Monday night. I spotted some at about 9:30 PM (about a quarter-sized "clot" for lack of a better description), and being paranoid like I am, I called the on-call nurse. She patched me through to the on-call OB, who is a partner to my OB. He wanted me to head to L&D for a NST and cervical exam. Everything checked out perfectly, and I followed up with my OB on Tuesday. He wants to know if I get anymore spotting, but thought that all was probably OK. I've had a terrible cold the past week, with very bad coughing. You know, the "hold on to the counter, my lung is coming up with the next cough" cough? One of the L&D nurses thought it could be related to my bleeding, the other said probably not. Who knows.....

Good news is that Baby Boy probably isn't breech anymore....at least for the moment. He was kicking all over last night, and the nurse found his heartbeat right where it belonged for a head-down baby.

Since then, no more bleeding, and Baby is moving like crazy. Plus I slept 9 straight hours last night which makes everything better!

Nursery - Plan to use James' nursery as is. Question for RO's - anyone planning on having 2 children in one room??? We are, and I'm so nervous that the baby will keep James from sleeping well! We need to get a big boy bed for James soon. I'd like to have him transitioned before the baby is born!

Baby Carrier - Tried a ring sling with James, and it never felt right. Used the heck out of the Baby Bjorn, though. Planning to upgrade to the Baby Bjorn Active for #2 (more back support).

Breastfeeding Supplies - Ditto on most of what has been mentioned. For freezing milk, may I suggest "Mom's Bags" (http://www.momsboutique.com/shopsite_sc/store/html/bfproducts.html)
or "Whirl Paks" from Nasco (this is the product I used - 500 bags for $41 - http://www.enasco.com/ProductDetail.do?sku=B01339WA). Something else to keep in mind, too.... Freeze milk in smaller quantities, so waste will be minimal! The first time I thawed 8 ounces and had to throw away about 5 ounces because it didn't get eaten fast enough I nearly cried! That's why I loved the Whirl Paks - at 4 ounces each they were the perfect size for me. In fact, the Nasco Company is making the "Mom's Bags", so they are similar.

Speaking of Breastfeeding - I have to share a favorite T-shirt boutique: http://www.thelactivist.com/store/cpshop.cgi One of my favorites:
http://storetn.cafepress.com/5/37483475_F_store.jpg

[diedra1027]

Though both kids seem to prefer the right side! If you push my belly on the left it's nothing, unless she's reaching over. But my right side is All. Baby.Me TOO! Both of my kids totally hang/hung out on the right (although I have a huge fibroid on the left, so that's probably why!). Also, both of my babies are/were content to move head down around 20 weeks and stay that way.

Hiccups - A few times. I agree that it's kind of fun at first and then it can get annoying - especially when you are trying to sleep ;).

Pelvis - I don't have a lot of pressure per se, but I have been having a TON of pain throughout my pelvis and hips. By the end of the night, I can barely walk. Makes chasing a toddler around very interesting.

Kim - Good luck with the condo sale and house hunt. Hope your realtor gets her act together!

MB - Crossing my fingers that the GTT turns out OK.

[kimthebride]

juliemag
I wanted a Hotsling or a custom pouch from Funky Giraffe...but i saw this, liked the idea and now MUST control myself! Lol!

lauren
I got pretty upset today because there were no peanut butter cookie dough rolls at the grocery store when I went this morning. :p Maybe next time!

Cravings
Mexican.
Cake.
cheesecake.
Desserts of any baked nature.

happy1
Since DD is all on the right side, I just sit him in the hip position on the left side. Its only for short distances, trust me! But he likes it and it helps me get from point A to point B quicker at times. I don't even know if I'm supposed to be doing it now, but its just for a few minutes at a time and so much easier than carrying him in my arms!

Home from The Hospital
I was reminded while reading wendstress's comments about the first nights at home from the hospital, about one thing you gotta have!
Cabbage.
Yes, beloved green heads of cold cabbage.
If you get painfully engorged, it helps ease it a bit when you put the leaves over each breast for short periods. And if you get mastitis (the common, unbe-freaking-lievably painful breast infection), cover each breast up and wear the cabbage til it wilts and it really, really helps - along with taking your Rx of course!!

As we get closer i'm sure more things will come to mind, but I remember my OB telling me to make DH run to the store for a couple heads of it, LOL.

wendstress
Oh that clot must have been scary! Glad all is well. And that baby flipped over.
I never got the hang of the ring sling either...I like the pouch, though. And the Bjorn Active was a back-saver!
That t-shirt is HILARIOUS!! LOL! I like the "You are staring at my kid's lunch, you know!" one. :)

Room Sharing
If we are still in our condo, DH & DS will have to move into the tv room/2nd bedroom/guest room and dd & I will use the bedroom/nursery. Sucks! but if we have a house, we'll all have our own rooms (though DH & I will likely still share ;) ).

[michael'sbride]

wendstress I never minded the orange stuff before and they gave me a choice this time of orange, lemon-lime or fruit punch. I took the fruit punch, just to be different. No big difference, still super sweet.

I wanted to add that I had spotting in my first pregnancy from weeks 9-16 and we determined that it was because I was up for hours at night coughing. I was diagnosed with Pregnancy onset Asthma and ended up on meds that I still take today. I wouldn't be surprised if that's what caused your spotting.

[kimthebride]

Nows I Am On A T-Shirt kick!

For you first-timers:
http://www.babiesnbellies.com/shop/images/designated.jpg

For us ROs:
http://www.babiesnbellies.com/shop/images/Oops_I_Did_It_Again_SS.jpg

hee hee hee....

[lil_nance]

Here's my peanut butter cookie recipe. Super quick and easy.
INGREDIENTS
1 cup peanut butter
1 cup white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon baking soda
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
In a medium bowl, mix together the peanut butter, sugar, egg, and baking soda until well blended. Roll dough into 1 inch balls, and place on ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake for 6 to 8 minutes in the preheated oven. Cool on cookie sheets until set, before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
----------------
Went to BRU today and was browsing. I saw a picture frame that said "Me & My Big Brother". I almost lost it. I got all emotional. My little boy is going to be a big brother and have a little sis to look up to him.

I also asked him, "Where's baby sister?". Usually he points to my belly. Today, he lifted his shirt and pointed to his tummy. Ummm...no but it might make my life easier. No getting up to pee 3 times a night.

[Tonysweetie]

I'm back! What a long 6 days that was! I survived the wedding though. After much feet hurting, hot flashes, and a just flat out tired bridesmaid it's over. Finally! I'll try and post a couple pictures tomorrow. The dress turned really cute. Way better than I had pictured it to look. It was a little big but nobody could really tell.

One thing though I'll never travel again while pregnant. For some reason I had all kinds of problems...cramps, sick to my stomach a lot, panic attacks, tiredness. Almost first trimester type stuff. As soon as I got home though I felt great. Werid! The baby kicked a ton though. So much I could feel it and I think I saw it too. Pretty neat!

We went to MIL house earlier today and her neighbor gave us a top of the line electric breast pump. It cost a lot I'm sure. She also gave us a playyard, a fetal monitor, a glider and some other things. I love the fetal monitor! It's awesome to hear my little guy move around. I can't seem to find the heartbeat though but the booklet said it takes some practice. I'll have to try again tomorrow. Well I'm off to bed I'm exhausted. Nite Nite!

[juliemag]

michael's bride - hoping all goes well with your GTT results! My doctor gave me the orange drink to take home at my 24 week appt, and I'm supposed to drink it before I come to my 28 week appt.... so next Thurs is my day!

wendstress - that shirt is awesome! I'm glad your trip to L&D turned out to be uneventful!

kimthebride - I LOL'd when I saw you recommended cabbage to have on hand for booby-issues post baby. I'd read that before...but for some reason it just seemed particularly funny at 7:45 in the am. :p I can guarantee... that will be the one and only time cabbage will be in my house... blech!

LOVE the designated driver shirt!!! I must have that.

lil_nance - mmmmmm peanut butter cookies!!! I think I am defintely going to make those.

tonysweetie - welcome back!

Aches, pains, and whatnot - Well I think I'm slowly easing into "that" phase of pregnancy. Yesterday I could NOT get comfortable. And it only got worse throughout the day. Stretches that I used to do to help my back really didn't help at all. And after dinner, I just felt like I was permanently hunched over b/c I was so full... and my back was annoying me. Couldn't get comfortable on the couch, couldn't arch back to try to stretch out my stomach, etc. I hate to complain, b/c really this pregnancy has been a breeze.... but man was I miss-crankypants yesterday.

So far I feel much better today... :)

[kimthebride]

lil_nance
Have I told you lately that I love you?
:D

tonysweetie
Travel can take a lot out of you. Long car rides, being on-the-go, and forget about flying. Ugh - I'd get really uncomfortable "restless legs" that would drive me nuts. You just don't drink enough or rest eno