The Maybe Mamas: TTC #1 in 2007

[MaybeMamas]

Welcome! If you are thinking 2007 is the year you will try to see your first BFP (Big Fat Positive pregnancy test), then this is the thread for you. Whether you are on the fence or just counting down days, you are more than welcome here. TTC (Trying To Conceive) is not always an easy decision to make.


How will a new baby change your life?
Is DH on board?
Are you healthy enough?
What do your finances look like?
How can you minimize stress once you make your decision to TTC?
Can you begin to see yourself as a mommy??


This group is designed to allow you to ask such questions in a friendly (and yes, sometimes rambunctious) atmosphere. Feel free to lurk, but we encourage you to join. The more the merrier!


Once you do decide to take the plunge and join, please list your stats in RED in your first post.

CC Name:
Me: Name, age
DH: Name, age
Married: Date
TTC start date: Date
Any other children:
Miscellaneous Info:

*Additionally, please posts all updates in RED.


The Threadmistresses are LadyD088 and akacharlotte.

Probably Mamas:
Elissa - BFP 10/20/06, EDD 6/27/07
Amew - BFP 12/19/06
LadyD088 - BFP 1/16/07, EDD 9/22/07
Filmgirl - BFP 1/15/07, EDD 9/25/07
MrsH - BFP 1/14/07, EDD 9/25/07
Jenji-
Loving624 - BFP 03/16/07

Actual Mamas:

[MaybeMamas]

The Baby Dance has already begun for...

ag-girl
Me: 28
DH: 31
Married: 05/03
TTC: 01/07
Any other children: furbabies only
Miscellaneous Info: Charting since October 06

Amuse Bouches
Me: AB, 28
DH: DH, 27
Married: 3/1/03
TTC start date: 11/06
Any other children: Nope.

Annette
Me: Annette, 29
DH: Mike, 29
Married: 11/10/01
TTC start date: 11/06
Any other children: no
Miscellaneous Info: you can find me on the charting thread

APhiJill
Me: Jill, turned 40 as of yesterday
DH: Dave 47
Married: 12/11/01
TTC start date: feb or march 2007
Any other children: DH has a 16 year old from a previous marriage and I had a miscarriage on 12/12/06

BrandonsBride
Me: Amber, 21
DH: Brandon, 25
Married: April 29, 2006
TTC start date: July 2006
Any other children: We have 2 cats...Tori & Tia
Miscellaneous Info: I'm ready for a BFP!!!!!

Dancn226
Me~Jenn, 26 sson to be 27
DH~Chris, 29
Married July 3, 2005 1 year already
TTC start date: Aug 2006

j.d.l.102205
Me: Jenn, 28
DH: Dave, 28
Married: 10/22/05
TTC Date: March 07
Other Children: None, just furbaby Riley Pup

JFlo
Me: J, 27
DH: E, 27
Married: August 2003
TTC start date: February 2007
Any other children: none
Miscellaneous Info: going off BCP (and on PNV) in December, have read TCOYF and plan to start charting, DH and I are going to Hawaii in May 2007...this was going to be our last big vacation pre-pregnancy, but now with our timing shift, we could possibly be with-baby!

JLRenheos/JLR
Me: 30
DH: 34
Married: 4/21/2001
TTC: March 2007
Any other children: None
Misc.: have been taking multivitamins for 6 mos. & have irregular Af.

Hew?B
Me: Heather, 30
DH: Matt, 29
Married: Oct 7, 2006
TTC start date: Oct. 7, 2006
Any other children: We have 2 Dogs...Molly & Bosco
Miscellaneous Info: I have had 2 m/c one in 6/2006 when we were not trying and one in 12/06 when we were trying

Kanga1622
Me: 26
DH: 28
Married: 08/31/02
TTC: 02/06
Any other children: our pup, 2
Miscellaneous Info: Charting since July 2003

karabear0117
Me: Kara, 23 (in a couple weeks at least)
DH: 26
Married: 10/28/2006
TTC: January 2007
Any other children: A four year old yellow lab, Zakk
Misc.: Well we figured we have a house, the cars are almost paid off why not go ahead and see what the future brings.

KK812
Me: P, 21
DH: E, 31
Married: 8/05
TTC start date: 9/05
Any other children: 3 furbabies
Miscellaneous Info: Since I am young and we started as soon as we got married, we have held off on seeing if I have any issues getting PG, but if we don't get PG by March, we will check things out and explore other options

linekelei
Me: Lindley, 30
DH: Steve, 30
Married: 8/21/04
TTC start date: March or April 2007
Any other children: Only pups-toy poodle, Daphne, and mini poodle, Buster
Miscellaneous info: Long cycles

Mandos*Bella
Me: A, 23
DH: A, 25 (26 in Jan.)
Married: October 16, 2004
TTC start date: Now, I guess!
Any other children: Just our furbabies Ginger and Puggy
Miscellaneous Info: We're excited!

May27jnj
Me: 21
DH: 22
Married: 5/27/06
TTC start date: 3/07
Any other children: 0
Misc.: I don't ovulate but I'm going to a new Dr to see what she says


MES in Chicago
Me: Melissa, 31
DH: Paul, 38 in January
Married: 10/23/04
TTC start date: 3/9/2007 (last day of BCP!!)
Any other children:nope, just our furbabies Crouton, pug and Oreo, Shi Tzu
Miscellaneous Info:I have PCOS and I have a fair amount of weight to lose. My OBGYN is confident I will be pregnant in 2007! I love her positive attitude

miss-madelyn
Me: Danielle, 22
DH: Dalen, 21
Married: We're not married, we have engaged for over a year and together for just over 18 months.
TTC start date: November 2006
Any other children: I had one before Dalen, but I placed him for adoption
Miscellaneous Info:We had a bit of a scare just after Christmas when my doctor thought I had cerical cancer; but I was given the clear, and all is well in my land!

raven077
Me: Karen 29
DH: Kyle 30
Married: October 2005
TTC start date: Dec 2006/Jan 2007
Miscellaneous Info: A severe degenerative disc problem

rubyslippers
Me: Heather,34
DH: Kurt,32
Married: 10/15/06
TTC start date: January 2007
Any other children:none for either of us
Miscellaneous Info:I've been doing WW and would like to loose another 20-25 lbs to be at a healthier weight before getting PG No known issues other than my AGE

Tree23
Me: Teri, 30
DH: Jeff, 33
Married: 5 July 2001
TTC start date: April 2004
Any other children: just the cuddly, furry kind...a 3.5 year old sweetheart named Kacey (Pembroke Welsh Corgi)

WestieMomma
Me: Megan, 27 but will be 28 when TTC
DH: Erik, 29
Married: June 8, 2002
TTC start date: March '07
Any other children: just our furbaby Karsen
Miscellaneous Info: DH travels a lot for work so that could make TTC a bit of a challenge!

[MaybeMamas]

May 2007

akacharlotte
Me: Stacey, 34
FH: J, 31
Married: 04/21/07
TTC start date: May 2007
Any other children: just furbabies
Miscellaneous Info: Stopped BCP about 5 years ago. Started charting Jan. 06

jeneca128
Me: Karen, 24
DH: Dan, 24
Married: 3/26/05
TTC start date: May 07
Any other children: 3 furbabies

lil_geek
Me: Tara, 27
DH: Terry, 26
Married: 05/13/06
TTC start date: May 2007
Any other children: Nope. (1 dog and 20 cows that demand a lot of attention!)
Misc Info: I went off BCP in early September and am now charting to avoid. Was dx'ed with PCOS as a teen but haven't seen any signs/symptoms since being off the pill

June 2007

futuremrslp
Me: Becky, 24
DH: Matt, 27
Married: June 10, 2006
TTC start date: June/July 2007
Any other children: Nope.

Julss05
Me: Julie, 29
DH: Mike, 31
Married: June 15, 2002
TTC start date: June 2007
Any other children: Furfelines Lady and Bandit

PookiePrincess
Me: Kristi, 27
DH: Sean, 30
Married: 10/29/05
TTC start date: June 2007!
Any other children: 2 furbabies, Fancy and Ryoki

July 2007

Bethnjim
Me: Beth, 28
DH: Jim, 26
Married: 07/12/03
TTC start date: July 2007
Any other children: 4 cats, Belle, Stitch, Cali and Feona

Walton
Me: 28
DH: 28
Married: 06/02
TTC: 07/07
Any other children: Nope
Miscellaneous Info: DH is a Ph.D. candidate, so we have been waiting for that chapter in his life to end. The dissertation is supposed to be done this summer, so the plan is to start trying then.

August 2007

heather1029
Me: Heather, 24
DH: Jeff, 24
Married: 10/29/05
TTC start date: August 2007
Any other children: Nope. Not even animals!
Misc Info: I went off BCP in early September and am now charting to avoid

Sue
Me: Sue, 34
DH: J, 37
Married: 8/10/02
TTC start date: August 2007
Any other children: 6 fids

summerbride2005
Me: C, 29
DH: W, 29
Married: 8/7/05
TTC start date: 8/07
Any other children: no
Miscellaneous Info: I have stomach issues that I am taking medication for everyday. I can't take them if I am pregnant, so I will be stoping them before August.

TerpsFan
Me: B, age 29
DH: B, age 29
Married: August 2003
TTC start date: Aug/Sept 2007
Any other children: 1 year old beagle/basset mix

September 2007

Angelcookie2002
Me: Danielle, 23
DH: Benji, 25
Married: 9/9/2004
TTC start date: Sept 07, right after our 3rd anniversary
Misc: We're taking a 3 week vacation to kick off TTC and as a last time for the two of us before we have kids.

coquelicot
Me: K, 28
DH: B, 29
Married: October 11, 2003
TTC start date: Summer 2007
Any other children: No, just a lovable mutt

trisigmanc
Me: Tracie, 32
FH: Eric, 29
Married: 10/4/03
TTC start date: Most likely September/October 2007
Any other children: just furbabies
Miscellaneous Info: Talking about stopping BCP, but we'll see. Maybe a few more months.

October 2007:

November 2007:

December 2007:

KaliLily
Me: Kim, 33 (34 in Jan 07)
DH: Joe, 33 (34 in Dec 06)
Married: 8/16/97
TTC start date: Winter 2007/2008
Any other children: Nope, unless you count our cats (Kali & Lily)
Misc Info: I was diagnosed with PCOS in 1996 and have been on Metformin for around 5 yrs. Interestingly, I seem to have (finally) been ovulating on my own since July. My cycles have been 32-34 days. DH's response to this was, "Who would've thought something would start working your 30s!"

K-L-U
Me: Katie, 27
DH: Tony, 27
Married: October 12, 2002
TTC start date: Hoping December 2007
Any other children: Our dog, Jack


Unknown TTC Date

CC Name: May27jnj
Me: 21
DH: 21
Married: 5/27/06
TTC start date: None really yet
Any other children: 0


On Hold:

[MaybeMamas]

Pregnancy Test Sensitivity Chart
Sensitivities checked with manufacturers in February 2005 - Test Name Lowest hCG detected

AimStick Pregnancy Test Strip 20 mIU
AccuHome Midstream Pregnancy Test 25 mIU
Answer Early Result Pregnancy Test 25 mIU
Answer Pregnancy Test (Cup) 25 mIU
Clearblue +/- 25 mIU
Confirm 1-Step Pregnancy Test 25 mIU
Equate Pregnancy Test 25 mIU
First Response Early Result Pregnancy Test 25 mIU
One Step Be Sure Pregnancy Test 25 mIU
Precise Pregnancy Test (doctors office) 25 mIU
Quickview Pregnancy Test (doctors office) 25 mIU
Walgreen Digital 25 mIU
e.p.t. Home Pregnancy Test
1 line = Not Pregnant 2 lines = Pregnant 40 mIU
e.p.t. Certainty Digital Test 40 mIU
Fact Plus Pregnancy Test 40 mIU
Clearblue Digital 50 mIU
CVS Cartridge Pregnancy Test 50 mIU
CVS Midstream Pregnancy Test 50 mIU
Dollar Store Brand Pregnancy Test 50 mIU
PROOF POSITIVE! Personal Home Pregnancy Test
Found at the Dollar Store and 99 Cents Stores 50 mIU
Drug Emporium Brand Pregnancy Test 50 mIU
e.p.t. + / - Test 50 mIU
early Pregnancy test 50 mIU
RiteAid Brand Pregnancy Test 50 mIU
Target Brand Pregnancy Test 50 mIU
WalMart Brand Pregnancy Test 50 mIU
Walgreens Pregnancy Test 100 mIU


Here is a sample reference list for HCG levels in singleton pregnancies, based on days past ovulation (DPO):

* At 14 DPO, the average HCG level is 48 mIU/ml, with a typical range of 17-119 mIU/ml.
* At 15 DPO, the average HCG level is 59 mIU/ml, with a typical range of 17-147 mIU/ml.
* At 16 DPO, the average HCG level is 95 mIU/ml, with a typical range of 33-223 mIU/ml.
* At 17 DPO, the average HCG level is 132 mIU/ml, with a typical range of 17-429 mIU/ml.
* At 18 DPO, the average HCG level is 292 mIU/ml, with a typical range of 70-758 mIU/ml.
* At 19 DPO, the average HCG level is 303 mIU/ml, with a typical range of 111-514 mIU/ml.
* At 20 DPO, the average HCG level is 522 mIU/ml, with a typical range of 135-1690 mIU/ml.
* At 21 DPO, the average HCG level is 1061 mIU/ml, with a typical range of 324-4130 mIU/ml.
* At 22 DPO, the average HCG level is 1287 mIU/ml, with a typical range of 185-3279 mIU/ml.
* At 23 DPO, the average HCG level is 2034 mIU/ml, with a typical range of 506-4660 mIU/ml.
* At 24 DPO, the average HCG level is 2637 mIU/ml, with a typical range of 540-10,000 mIU/ml.

Odds of Conceiving
(from babymed.com's Fertility FAQs):
quote:

Here are your odds of conceiving:
1 in 5 each month
1 in 10 each month if you are over 35
1 in 2 after 4-5 months
4 in 5 after one year
1 in 5-10 in the second year
1 in 2.5 if you make love once a day during the fertile time
1 in 3 if you make love every other day during the fertile time
1 in 10 if you make love only once 4-5 days before ovulation
1 in 30 if you make love only once a month
1 in 7 if you make love 5 times a month
1 in 3-4 if you make love 10 times a month
Zero if you ONLY make love after ovulation

Useful Links

Due Date Calculator (http://www.parenthood.com/pregcal.html)

[MaybeMamas]

*This is a collection of tips, not a to-do list. If it's your first month, take a deep breath and see what your body can do by itself! Of course, some of these are good ideas even during your first month-- like taking PNV for 3 months prior to BD. Use your common sense!

CM supporting tricks
1. Grapefruit juice: Supposedly helps boost CM production. Plus, it's just good for you.
2. Robitusin: Robitussin is a brand name of a product that is based on guaifenesin, an expectorant. There are other guaifenesin based cough syrups also (Equate also has one). It is used in TTC to thin the CM mucus to make it more sperm-friendly. 1-2 tsp. twice daily until ovulation. Make sure the product only contains guaifenesin without added decongestants or antihistamines, which could dry your CM.
BEWARE extromethorphan, an ingredient in some cough medicines, may cause birth defects. (from: tryingtoconceive.com)
3. Green Tea: Reputedly also helps with EWCM. Drink as much as possible starting CD1 up to O. I think there are also capsules out there. Consider decaf if you don' usually have caffeine.
4. Stop taking antihistamines: Claritin, etc. dry you up. Stop taking them a couple weeks before O if you can.
5. Take Evening Primrose Oil: EPO is used to increase the amount of EWCM. The dose is 3000 mg once daily. Discontinue EPO when your thermal shift occurs as it can cause uterine contraction which may hinder implantation of the embryo in the uterus. (Also taken from: tryingtoconceive.com).

Nutritional Tricks
6. Prenatals 3+ months prior: Folic acid prevent neural tube defects
7. Men's multi with zinc, A, selenium for DH: Supports spermies
8. No Caffeine: Research shows that too much caffeine can reduce your ability to absorb iron and increase your risk for stillbirth. Avoid coffee, tea, and colas or switch to decaf to increase your chances of getting pregnant. If you are a complete caffeine junkie, then the safe limit would be a cup a day. Try switching to a milkshakes which will boost your calcium as well and assist in conception. (from babyhopes.com).
9. No (or little) refined sugars and carbs: because it isn't good for you? What else?
10. Yams: possible chemical that encourages ovulation... and maybe hyperovulation (think fraternal twins)
11. No Peas: from maplekitty's post on page 2: "...a study conducted in India...what they discovered was that a natural chemical found in peas - called M-xylohydroquinone - did appear to have contraceptive effects....were found to cut pregnancy rate up to 60 percent. In men, who took the pea capsule, sperm counts droped by some 50 percent."
12. No soy or avacados: interferes/mimics estrogen production
13. No peanutbutter and no spinach: Apparently they deplete calcium, which is really important in building a baby.
14. pineapple during LP: Helps with implantation???

Exercise Tricks
15. Regular Exercise: (30 minutes 4 days a week). You shouldn't start a new exercise program when pregnant, but you can continue one; many women think it helps with labor and energy during PG
16. Kegel's Exercises:L&D easier, bladder control is a good thing
17. Tummy Crunches: L&D easier

Pre-conception Visit Issues
18. Rubella Vaccination:* make sure you're still immune from childhood immunizations; not a good thing to catch while PG
19. Renew Tetanus Shot: can't get one while PG even if you do step on a rusty nail.
20. Consider the cystic fibrosis testing question.: visit that link.
21. Consider getting a Flu Shot:[b] Getting a really high fever in early pregnancy is no good.
22. Visit www.babycenter.com
*for more info on vaccinations, as well as other pre-TTC advice, see here:
CC "What to do before TTC" thread

[B]Miscellaneous Tricks & Advice
23. Red Raspberry Leaf Tea: Helps tone the uterus and muscles of the pelvic region. Also a highly nutritive ingredient and "powerful fertility-promoting herb, especiallly when used with pepermint".
24. Consider baby aspirin: see tryingtoconceive.com. (End of the page.)
25. Start a baby/pregnancy binder: There is so much to know! Might as well use your anxious waiting time productively.
26. X-Rays: Get dental xrays done if it's been a long time; no xrays while PG.
27. Go Horseback Riding: no horseback riding while PG
28. Chart!: know that window of sweet fertile opportunity!
29. Meditate, avoid depression: supposedly helps somehow, and after reading this list you'll need to take a couple of deep breaths.

DTD Tricks
30. BD schedule: Statistically best to BD every fertile day so long as there is no sperm count problem (according to TCOYF).
31. Hips up, headstands, general pelvic up body contortions:go spermies, go! Hey, it can't hurt.
32. Morning Nookie: Higher sperm counts in the morning
33. Get turned on:: the more aroused the woman, the better environment for conception?

[MaybeMamas]

Recommended websites...

www.babytalkin.com
www.ovusoft.com
www.babycenter.com
www.storknet.com
www.babyfit.com
www.1800diapers.com/index.aspx

For more sites, check out the first pages of the following groups: TTC w/ Charting, Seeing What Happens, and Still At It.

[MaybeMamas]

Reserved for recommended books...

Taking Care of Your Fertility by Toni Weschler, MPH. Also known as "TCOYF", and referred to many ladies here as the bible of fertility.

The Conception Chronicles byPatty Doyle Debano, Courtney Edgerton Menzel, Shelly Dicken Sutphen
Reviewed by: eli1126 (Beth)
Overall this book is mainly about couples who can't get pg without medical assistance. It is informative for those who may want to see a step by step process for dealing with IF.
What I didn't like about the book:
-Not everyone deals with IF and it comes off as being that it's so difficult to get pg that *everyone* may have problems and or need medical assistance to conceive.
-tends to be glib about the message boards. Yes baby dust may be corny to some, but well wishes never go out of style.
http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0060937645.01._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-dp-500-arrow,TopRight,45,-64_AA240_SH20_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg

Other Books
http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0671524313.01._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-dp-500-arrow,TopRight,45,-64_AA240_SH20_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg
http://images.amazon.com/images/P/073820949X.01._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-dp-500-arrow,TopRight,45,-64_AA240_SH20_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg

For a fun read (like bridget jones diary/sex and the city)
http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0345475755.01._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-dp-500-arrow,TopRight,45,-64_AA240_SH20_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg

From j*east:
I've only bought The Mother of All Pregnancy Books. I'm planning to get as many as I can from the library first. I love books, but some are just worth reading once and some I'll consult often.
http://images.amazon.com/images/P/0764565168.01._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-dp-500-arrow,TopRight,45,-64_AA240_SH20_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg

Here are the titles I've previewed and will probably buy:
Misconceptions by Naomi Wolf
Birthing from Within by Pam England
Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way by Susan McCutcheon
The Whole Pregnancy Handbook by Joel Evans

Still need to preview:
TCOYF
The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth by Henci Goer
Husband Coached Childbirth by Robert Bradley
Ina May's Guide to Childbirth by Ina May Gaskin
Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn by Penny Simkin

Previewed and won't buy:
What To Expect When You're Expecting
Your Pregnancy Week by Week by Glade Curtis

I'm aiming for NCB, so that definitely influences my thinking. I'll almost definitely be using a birth center and MW, so I look for books that are open to that and not just, "Go to the hospital and get an epidural." I need more information!

From Lynzy AHL:
Skimmed/Read first 9 chapters of Hanci Goer's Thinking Woman's guide to a better birth (I think that's the title) Review: Very informative and sites TONS of references for PRO nat. Non-invasive birth. Would purchase just to use as reference to reinforce birth plan with caregiver and hospital staff.

Mayo Clinic Complete Book of Pregnancy & Baby's First Year - FREE from my state farm agent
** Very clinical and science fact based. Lists many of the standards of maternal/prenatal care and common afflictions

Thinking Womens Guide to a Better Birth - Henci Goer
** PRO natural child birth. States Pros and Cons of many common practices. Great resource for reinforcing birth plan with practitioner/hospital

Spiritual Midwifery - Ina May Gaskin
** Ugh this book is different. Many natural birth stories to inspire if you can look past the pictures of hippy chicks with longer pit hair than your husband's. Back was filled with more science/medical information for midwives. A little to do-it-myself.

The Nursing Mother's Companion - by Kathleen Huggins
** Very little to do with latching/good habits but HUGE amts of focus on issues and corrections. Helpful reference AFTER birth

29th August, 2005. 10:35 pm. BABY BOOK REVIEWS THUS FAR (Con't.)
Hypno Birthing - The Mongan Method - Marie F. Mongan
**Not bad gives some very good insites and techniques for relaxing includes CD

Husband~Coached Childbirth - Robert Bradley
*** Right on par with my thoughts on labor and delivery will read this and hopefully take the class if I can talk my husband into 12 weeks of classes if not I'm going to need a birth partner I'll be accepting volunteers next JULY HAHA

Natural Childbirth the Bradley Way - Susan McCutcheon
*Read above said book and leaved the dated photos of this one behind. Basically reads like classroom instruction

Easing Labor Pain, The complete guide to a more comfortable and rewarding Birth - Adrienne B Lieberman
* Worth reading, but from the library

Planning for Pregnancy, Birth,& Beyond - American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists
*** Planning on buying this in the next few weeks as it has whole section on pre-conception like the mayo clinic book but less clinical

Pregancy SUCKS - Joanne Kimes

Pregancy SUCKS for Men - Joanne Kimes
*** FUN pregancy books want them both and to use the second book to announce my BFP to Dan

Complete book of Breastfeeding - Marvin S Elger
Liked the nursing mother's companion layout and style much better

Womanly art of Breastfeeding - TIT NAZIS err I mean LaLeche League International
Uh I got it breast is best other than that I like the Nursing mother's companion better and it beats the dated pics in this one worth checking out from library for the info but not worth my hard earned bucks to buy

Gentle Birth Choices - Barbara Harper
*** CD - Appendix - Chapter devoted to Water Birth (www inntertradions com for related books/information)

[MaybeMamas]

A FEW MORE MONTHS AND WE HIT 2007!!!

OPEN FOR POSTING!!!

[raven077]

Well, I'll be the first, though I'm not sure if this is right for this thread yet. It's more of an update. I'm moving TTC from Nov/Dec to Dec/Jan '07. I'm taking some medicine that I want to clear out of my system and I won't stop that until late October. Plus, go ahead and make me 29 since my birthday is less than 20 days away. ;)

raven077
Me: Karen 29
DH: Kyle 30
Married: October 2005
TTC start date: Dec 2006/Jan 2007
Miscellaneous Info: A severe degenerative disc problem

Good luck to all of the 2007 Maybe Mama's. :)

[Mandos*Bella]

Not sure where I belong, as I am not on BC pills anymore, however we are not necessarily trying, per-se. We are definitely BD'ing, though ;)

Here is my info:
CC Name:
Me: A, 23
DH: A, 25 (26 in Jan.)
Married: October 16, 2004
TTC start date: Now, I guess! :D
Any other children: Just our furbabies Ginger and Puggy
Miscellaneous Info: We're excited!

[TerpsFan]

Can't believe it's time for me to join finally

TerpsFan
Me: B, age 29
DH: B, age 29
Married: August 2003
TTC start date: Aug/Sept 2007
Any other children: 1 year old beagle/basset mix

[LadyD088]

I'm adding my own info because I HIGHLY doubt we'll be TTCing again until after the 1st of the year, considering the holidays are coming up and work will be crazy for DH.

LadyD088
Me: Deb, 30
DH: Ryan, 29
Married: May 8, 2004
TTC start date: Feb 2006
Miscellaneous Info: Chem PG March 2006

[MaybeMamas]

UPDATED TO HERE!!

Welcome new members!! Yes, Good Luck to ALL!!! May 2007 bring us ALL BFP's!!

[elissa]

Adding info over here as well and can update as we go!

elissa
Me: Elissa, 30
DH: Chris, 32
Married: 10-1-05
TTC start date: October 2006
Any other children:none
Miscellaneous Info:fibroids removed via myomectomy June 2001 so could have problems TTC

[LynzeyAHL]

I'll add my info later ... *waves* hi girls :o

[Mandos*Bella]

Hi Lynzey! :D

[Julss05]

Julss05
Me: Julie, 29
DH: Mike, 31
Married: June 15, 2002
TTC start date: Dec 2006/Spring 2007
Any other children: Furfelines Lady and Bandit


We are hoping to TTC starting in December but who knows what will happen so I imagine we might be trying in 2007 too. Look forward to chatting with everyone!:)

[Sue]

CC Name: Sue
Me: Sue, 33
DH: J, 37
Married: 8/10/02
TTC start date: Late Spring/Summer 2007
Any other children: 6 fids


I went off BCP in May and have been CTA since then. We want to buy a new house and get settled in, pay off some bills and take a real vacation before we start trying. I would like to avoid a birth in winter or around the holidays (my b-day is 3 weeks after xmas and it sucked growing up!! And I have a niece born on Xmas Eve) so we're hoping to start late Spring.

A bit nervous, wondering if I really want a baby, if I do because it seems like the next step or is what is expected of us. A lot to sort through!

[PookiePrincess]

I've been waiting for this thread!

CC Name: PookiePrincess
Me: Kristi, 27
DH: Sean, 30
Married: 10/29/05
TTC start date: June 2007!
Any other children: 2 furbabies, Fancy and Ryoki

I went of BCP and started charting in June. We're working on paying off some of our debt, plan to buy a house next summer, and TTC! We're trying to time so we'd be due in the spring, which will be a great time for me because I'm a teacher. I can take time off and go back for the end of the school year.

[Julss05]

I know this might be a little early but has anyone thought of baby names? I was bored the other day so I compiled a list off www.babynames.com. We have already agreed on a boy's name but we may change our mind or not have a boy so I looked at names for both.
Here's my list: http://www.babynames.com/Names/namelist_print.php
Some are family names, some not, some are traditional, and a few are unique. The indented ones are middle names. I just chose from the website but you can add names too.

[Reenie]

I've been waiting for this thread!...We're trying to time so we'd be due in the spring, which will be a great time for me because I'm a teacher. I can take time off and go back for the end of the school year.

OOh, me too, on all accounts! I have been waiting for this thread, and I'm a teacher, too, so hopefully our TTC will work with the school year. ;)

CC Name: Reenie
Me: Reenie, 25 (26 when TTC)
DH: Eric, 26 (27 when TTC)
Married: 11/13/04
TTC start date: July 2007
Any other children: 2 furbabies, Cheetos and Bella

We have the house and our debt is comprised of mortgage and student loans. That's under control. I am in an M.Ed. program, from which I am projected to graduate in December 2007. The only thing that could set us back is DH's school, but we seem pretty secure for this summer! :)

[Sue]

I know this might be a little early but has anyone thought of baby names?

Sure have :D We had names picked out for years, until good friends of ours named their girl Emily (this was before it was SO popular). I thought we had the boy name picked out, then my DH recently said he wasn't so sure anymore. Which sucked, because there aren't very many boys name I like.

[PookiePrincess]

We have a girls name picked out and a probable boys name. My husband had a crazy boys' name picked out that I finally talked him out of, but I think we've decided on a new one, unless we find something we like more.

[LynzeyAHL]

we've had ours picked out for years. Now if we change it after delivery b/c the baby doesn't look like a X or a Z remains unseen at this point haha :o

[WestieMomma]

CC Name: WestieMomma
Me: Megan, 27 but will be 28 when TTC
DH: Erik, 29
Married: June 8, 2002
TTC start date: March '07
Any other children: just our furbaby Karsen
Miscellaneous Info: DH travels a lot for work so that could make TTC a bit of a challenge!

I'm planning on going off the pill in Dec. We have been paying off all debt including student loans. With all that paid off I plan to work part-time or maybe be a SAHM when the baby comes.

[MaybeMamas]

UPDATED TO HERE!!!!

[LadyD088]

Baby Names:
Up, we sure have them picked out!!
Boy: Ethan Gregory (Ethan - we just like, Gregory is DH's middle name)
Girl: Charlotte Emilia (Charlotte - my maternial grandmothers' name, Emilia - DH's paternal grandmothers' name)

We LOVE the names!!! Can't wait to get to use one!!

Deb

[Julss05]

We had names picked out for years, until good friends of ours named their girl Emily
Same here! I wanted to name my first daughter Emily but my cousin beat me to it.

LadyD088-Love the names! Our friends named their son Ethan and he is the cutest most well behaved baby I have ever met. I like Charlotte too, nice that you could use family names.

As far as our baby names,
For a boy: Christopher (DH picked it and I instantly liked it so we got one down!), not sure of a middle name yet.
For a girl: ? No idea! We can't agree on one so lets hope the first one is a boy!

[Sue]

Same here! I wanted to name my first daughter Emily but my cousin beat me to it.

LadyD088-Love the names! Our friends named their son Ethan and he is the cutest most well behaved baby I have ever met. I like Charlotte too, nice that you could use family names.

As far as our baby names,
For a boy: Christopher (DH picked it and I instantly liked it so we got one down!), not sure of a middle name yet.
For a girl: ? No idea! We can't agree on one so lets hope the first one is a boy!

They also used our wedding song years before us also!!

Christopher is one of our boy names. We had decided that was it, then recently J changed his mind, he may want something else. For a girl, I think we've settled on Ainslie Nicole. It took him a bit to aquire a taste for Ainslie, but he really likes it now.

[WestieMomma]

Names...so hard to pick anything out! I like unique names.

For girls I like Landry or Kyler.

For boys I like Cash, Chase (but my nephew's name is Chance so it's probably too close) or maybe Cade.

[KaliLily]

DH and I talked a few nights ago and we're (tentatively) going to start TTCing next month. (Shhh...Don't tell! ;) I'm keeping my mouth shut this time around because I'm tired of getting hassled with questions. They'll all know when I'm PG!)

This week I went to the doctor for a Tdap vaccination (Tetanous, diptheria and pertussis). My last one was in 1981 :eek: and my OB/GYN agreed it was a good idea to get that updated first. And while I was in the building for my shot, I stopped by his office to drop off a list of my prescriptions. The nurse called this afternoon, and everything I'm on is A-OK! :)

Now without further ado, here are my "stats":

CC Name: KaliLily
Me: Kim, 33 (34 in Jan 07)
DH: Joe, 33 (34 in Dec 06)
Married: 8/16/97
TTC start date: As early as Nov 06, but maybe a few months later
Any other children: Nope, unless you count our cats (Kali & Lily)
Misc Info: I was diagnosed with PCOS in 1996 and have been on Metformin for around 5 yrs. Interestingly, I seem to have (finally) been ovulating on my own since July. My cycles have been 32-34 days. DH's response to this was, "Who would've thought something would start working your 30s!"

Have we thought of names? Oh yeah! We've talked about baby names since we were newlyweds.

Girls
Kaitlyn Marlee (We both love the name Kaitlyn; Mar for DH's Mom, Maria, and Lee for my Mom's middle name)
Kassandra Emilie (Kassandra for my mom, Sandra, and Emilie for DH's Mom's middle name)
Jocelyn Michaela (after DH)

Boys
We can't seem to agree on boys names, but this is my favorite: Michael Philip (DH's middle name, my Dad's first name)

Other options to appease DH (he is fixated on continuing the "JMD" initials he shares with his Dad):
Jakob Matthew
Jakob Michael
John Michael

I'm hell-bent on getting my Dad's first name in there somewhere, though!

[LadyD088]

Welcome Kim!! I love how you are using your family names, that's what we were going for (for the most part).

WestieMomma - Those names are so cool. Really different and unique. I hear ya on not-so-common names!! I realize Ethan is but we just love the name.

Sue - Hmmm, never heard of the girls' name, sounds lovely!
************************
Thought we could use a QOTD so....
QOTD: Do your family and friends know you plan on (or already are) starting a family?

I'll answer. They probably have an idea since we were pg earlier this year. However, we've decided NOT to spill the beans so early this time as a precaution to any issues that may arise. We plan on waiting until I start showing to really announce anything (if we can wait that long).

Deb

[Mandos*Bella]

We share a home with my grandmother, so she is kinda privvy...but I don't think she is aware of how soon we could be trying.

As for everyone else, nope! I'd rather it be a surprise. Plus my mom would ellude to the fact that we haven't taken all the vacations we should, etc.. :rolleyes:

[PookiePrincess]

QOTD: Do your family and friends know you plan on (or already are) starting a family?

My mom has a general idea. I've told her our plan is to start trying next summer. I'm sure that will be emblazoned in her brain until it happens. Other than that, I don't think many other people know. I might have mentioned it in passing to one or more of my aunts, but I doubt they'd remember.

[KaliLily]

Welcome Kim!! I love how you are using your family names, that's what we were going for (for the most part).

************************
Thought we could use a QOTD so....
QOTD: Do your family and friends know you plan on (or already are) starting a family?

Deb

Thanks, Deb! DH and I are both very close to our parents so it seems natural to honor them this way. I would love to use other family names (paternal grandmother who died years before I was born and a Great Aunt I was very close to), but I worry about offending the parents whose relatives' names weren't used. And there's no way I'm having enough kids to cover everyone!

QOTD: I pretty much answered this in my initial post. We aren't telling our families, though they are all aware we want to have kids sooner rather than later (given my age that's kind of obvious :rolleyes: ). I even made a point to ask DH not to mention it to anyone. His father has a history of harping on us to give him a grandchild. I will be telling one friend since she's a CC'er and if she "stalks" me she'll see these posts. I trust her though that she won't tell anyone, plus she's also never been one to hassle me about my TTC efforts or lack thereof. Otherwise, as far as I'm concerned it's no one's business but mine and DH's...and you ladies here of course! :D

PookiePrincess: I loved your "emblazoned in her brain" comment about your mom. Sounds just like my mom! That got a LOL from me.

[Sue]

QOTD: Do your family and friends know you plan on (or already are) starting a family?

The only one that knows is my SIL, who is also trying - but that is a whole other story. My parents aren't the type to nag for grandchildren, even though I am their only shot. And my DH's parents have 7 already, and they have pretty much assumed we weren't going to reproduce. So, it'll be a big surprise!

[KaliLily]

[And my DH's parents have 7 already, and they have pretty much assumed we weren't going to reproduce. So, it'll be a big surprise!

DH's parents have 2 grandchildren from DH's sister, however, my FIL really wants a grandchild from his son. Probably has something to do with the family name living on. Several years ago DH finally had to tell his dad to lay off the baby talk, and that we'd have kids if/when we were ready. Then about 2 yrs ago I made a "when we have kids" comment in front of FIL and he remarked, "You're still planning on having kids?" like I was too old by then or something. I was only 31!!! :rolleyes:

My parents are much more laid back. Would they love for me to have a child? Yes. Will they be OK if we never do? Yes. They have 1 grandchild from my brother.

[Sue]

My brother is 46, never married and I doubt he ever will, so I'm the only chance for my folks. But they have never even mention it, and my parent's are older - in their 70's. I think my in-laws would like a grandchild from DH, they have a special relationship, even though there are 6 kids.

[PookiePrincess]

PookiePrincess: I loved your "emblazoned in her brain" comment about your mom. Sounds just like my mom! That got a LOL from me.

LOL! My parents don't really nag about us having kids at all, but I know my mom WILL NOT forget that I gave her a time frame. They were the only ones when we got married that said to take our time. That doesn't mean they aren't REALLY looking forward to it, but my brother and SIL met, married and had twins in 18 months. They didn't want us to take that route!

[Reenie]

RE: baby names
We have our boy-name picked out for certain: Timothy Edward. Timothy because we're both Irish and we love the meaning, too (Honoring God), and Edward because it is DH's and my brother's middle name. Girl-name is a little trickier. We have gone round and round about this one, so I won't say this with much certainty, but for now it's Amelia Elizabeth. The middle name will certainly be Elizabeth because it's a family name for DH.

RE: Who knows?
We have told another couple who we're good friends with simply because they'll be trying at the same time. I did mention it to another friend because she ... well, long story, but she is kinda competitive and sometimes overbearing and was saying how it would be great that we would both be having babies at the same time, so I casually mentioned that I wasn't sure where she had gotten that idea and that there's no way we're waiting four more years to have a baby. I think my mom may have an idea from mother's intuition (and because she knows that we'd try in the summer and that next summer would fit well into our other plans), but I haven't mentioned it. And DHs mom, OH MAN, we cannot tell her. She is so ready for us to have a baby; she asks multiple times every time we speak to/see her, and she already has stuff for the baby :eek: (the hypothetical future baby :rolleyes: ).

[LadyD088]

...but I worry about offending the parents whose relatives' names weren't used. And there's no way I'm having enough kids to cover everyone!

OMG I LOVE that last sentence!! Could you even imagine? Way too many kids. But I understand what you were saying about offending possible family members. That's why we've stuck with our grandmothers (to whom we were both very close to). Maybe for future boys (if we are lucky enough to have more than one) we might incorporate our grandfathers' names but that's WAY down the line (unless we have twins and both are boys). So we'll see.

Since Reenie brought it up....new QOTD!

QOTD: Have you (or any family members) purchased anything for a baby?

We totally have!! Dh works for a retail athletic store. He's got shoes on hold for the baby. He's even purchased the Nike/Jordan booties and USC booties too!! Gotta love DH's!! I have purchased books, some outfits (on total clearance), and the bedding/decor. I have stopped now though because I have no place to put all it - we have 2 med sized boxes full. I will wait until we pass our 6 month until I even THINK about buying anything else - or let everyone else buy this stuff. My mom has purchased a few items as well. I believe MIL said she has purchased an item or two but I have not yet seen them.
***********************
So I'm just living with AF right now...by myself. DH won't be back from San Jose until the end of this month - just in time to start BD'ing!! I can't wait! This will be the longest we've ever been apart (a total of 33 days!!!) Never again can I do this.

Hard enough to be alone. But alone, in a new place, with no car? Seriously, I think I might be going crazy!

Anyways...off to work, I guess.

Deb

[MaybeMamas]

UPDATED TO HERE!!

[PookiePrincess]

QOTD: Have you (or any family members) purchased anything for a baby?

No. No one has specifically bought anything for our future babies. I'm afraid to buy a book, for fear I might jinx myself. Though, I think at the beginning of next summer I'll buy some books so I can start reading beforehand. Summer is really the only time I have to read anything for enjoyment. My mom has stuff in preparation for when we do but that's only because she originally bought them for my nieces. They have a pack and play, 2 high chairs, towels/washclothes, and several onesies, not to mention the baby soap and lotion and all that good stuff.

[Sue]

QOTD: Have you (or any family members) purchased anything for a baby?

No, I think my DH would think I'm off my rocker if I did! I have tons of ideas, picked out bedding and have an inkling of strollers etc., but haven't bought anything. But you should see all the sites I have bookmarked!

[Julss05]

QOTD: Do your family and friends know you plan on (or already are) starting a family?I told my parents we are starting soon and few close friends but that's it.
QOTD: Have you (or any family members) purchased anything for a baby?

I got a cute momma/baby animal picture I couldn't resist I put in the guest room (future baby's room) but couldn't bring myself to hanging it. I would love to start reading up on pregnancy books now, I guess I'm afraid of the strange looks when they found out I'm not pregnant yet. I know I'm not the only one that likes to be prepared though especially when your talking about having a baby! I could always order online to avoid the pregnancy questions. I swear it's like trying to buy a book on sex before you have it! Stupid lady at the bookstore gave me a hard time when I bought TCOYF saying it doesn't work as BC, 3 years later I'd like to smack her with it:D.

I'm sorry, it has been a rough week. Been cramping all week with sore bbs, AF not supposed to show up until next week but I feel like crap now:(. Well I'm off to take a bath. Goodnight ladies.

[KaliLily]

They were the only ones when we got married that said to take our time.

That's good advice. As my mom always says, "You can't send them back!"

ETA: QOTD: Have you (or any family members) purchased anything for a baby?

Oh boy, please don't think I'm a total nut job when you read this...

About 5 years ago I fell in love with a bedding set I saw at Babies R Us (I was shopping for a friend's new baby). I knew it was what I wanted for a nursery and was afraid it would be gone by the time I had a baby. When I saw it drastically reduced on Burlington Coat Factory's website I snatched up everything I thought I might want: bedding set, diaper genie cover, lamp, light switch plate, mobile, valances and wall border. Then I came across a matching baby book at their store and bought it too. I also have 2 baby CDs I found cheap at a music store and a plush giraffe rattle I found on sale while shopping for another friend's baby (I love giraffes). Plus...

From the moment my mom learned my SIL was expecting, she bought every baby item in 2s - one for my nephew and one for my hypothetical child. She continued to pick up things she thought were cute even after my nephew outgrew the baby/toddler stage - he'll be 9 in December. When we moved to VA (from WA), she gave me everything she had collected over the years in a HUGE rubbermaid bin. (I haven't looked through it because I want to be surprised when I open it at my baby shower.) Plus...

MIL has been collecting baby stuff for my hypothetical offspring for about as long. A few years ago she bought the entire line of giraffe clothing at a Carter's outlet store. And I have gathered from talking to her that she has other stuff too. I'm going to need a shed for all of this stuff!

While this most likely reads that we're all raving baby lunatics, as for my purchase of the bedding/coordinating stuff I just didn't want to find myself pregnant years later wishing I'd just bought it. It's really beautiful and perfect for a boy or a girl. I still love it. And I got an amazing deal! As for my mom, she wanted to make sure that my child was treated the same no matter what her finances were once I had a baby. My mom is so cute. Other than my fondness for giraffes, I'm not really sure why my MIL has been acquiring her collection. Maybe for the same reason as my mom, or because she heard my mom was building a collection!

**********

Julss05 - I can totally relate! I almost went into the Motherhood Maternity store at the mall today to ask if they carried plus size maternity clothing, but didn't want to have to admit I wasn't pregnant yet. What can I say? I'm a natural researcher and I like to be prepared!

Deb - I completely empathize with you. DH moved to VA before me - he had to start working w/in 2 weeks of the offer. He left on Halloween and I was left to deal with the realtors, prospective buyers and packing all by myself until he returned the day before Thanksgiving to move our household. I was so lonely! Then when our things arrived in VA, he left for Germany the next day! I was left alone in a new home full of boxes with no friends or family for a week 14 days before Christmas. Fortunately, I took him to the airport so I had the rental car.

[JLRenheos]

JLRenheos/JLR
Me: 30
DH: 33 (34-Dec.)
Married: 4/21/2001
TTC: Anytime in January 2007
Any other children: None
Misc.: have been taking multivitamins for 6 mos. & have irregular Af.


My younger brother & his wife are expecting their 1st baby right around Easter. She is just over 15 weeks along. I took it really hard when I first found out. Now I'm really excited for them & to become an Aunt(on my side of the family!)
I'm just hoping, that before they deliver, my husband & I will be pregnant by then. It'll be hard if we're not.
I cannot wait for this road, we've waited so long for this. Geesh, we've been married long enough! I never thought we'd wait as long as we have & we're really thrilled to finally start!

Baby Names: They change all of the time. Nothing *really* stands out, but there are a few that I/we like.

Who Knows?: As far as TTC, none of our families know our timeline for sure, but they're probably expecting soon. I've expressed my feelings to my Mom & my MIL on how I felt when I first found out about my brother & his wife being pregnant & and I'm sure they get the hint.
As far as *close* friends, I/we've discussed it openly. No biggie. I have a gf who's planning on ttc around the same time as my husband & I. She doesn't want to be pregnant alone. She wants to be able to share pregnancy stories along w/a gf who's also pregnant. Majority of our friends already have children & are going on their 2nd and 3rd child. My husband & I are one of the last remaining few couples left to start a family.

QOTD: purchasing things for the baby
Nothing. We don't plan on buying anything until we're pregnant. We haven't purchased things for ourselves, but we have had things given to us. The items are anxiously awaiting us! I have things that my SIL has given to us,....such as an exersaucer, swing, cradle/swing, a carseat, stroller, and a choice of 2 cribs(that she's keeping at their house for us). On another hand, my Mom is going bonker's with my Brother. She is taking a carload down at Thanksgiving full of baby stuff. I warned her not to do that with me. ;)

[WestieMomma]

I need to get caught up in here!


Who Knows?: My parents and friends all know that we will be TTC in the spring for sure. A lot of friends have recently had their first baby and some are starting to think about #2. I have been going to a lot of baby showers lately and seeing a lot of friend's newborn babies so that only adds to my "baby bug"! We have been married the longest in our circle of friends and are one of the few that don't have kids yet....it's time!

QOTD: purchasing things for the baby I have not purchased anything. I probably will start soon though if I see something cute. My Mom and me go to a lot of craft shows this time of year so I'm sure I'll see some stuff I can't resist. I need to pick up some books as well.

[Julss05]

We have been married the longest in our circle of friends and are one of the few that don't have kids yet....it's time!

Same with us! With exception of one couple who are currently TTC all other friends/family members our age, most married less than us are working on having the last of their kids or are already done. We will be the only ones with a newborn unless they have a big oops!;) Hoping if the winter doesn't produce anything I'll definitely be pregnant by spring.

Cycle Stuff
I started spotting today so I think AF will show tomorrow. I don't think I O'd on CD 18 like FF says though because that would give me a much shorter luteal phase than usual. FF first said I O'd on CD 13, then CD 14, finally changing it to CD 18 but I think I really O'd on CD 14. Oh well, I guess it doesn't really matter this cycle anyway:rolleyes:. Have a good weekend everyone!

[raven077]

QOTD: Do your family and friends know you plan on (or already are) starting a family?
Only one couple, the parents of our godson. She's been hoping we'd start trying for his "girlfriend" right after we got married, LOL. But I was hoping that they'd go for number two when we were going for number one. As for family, we're not telling just so we don't get anyone's hopes up. My parents aren't pushing, even though I'm the only girl, and the only one of their three kids who will have children. His dad really wants grandchildren but really, there is no pressure from his family either. It's nice, actually.

QOTD: Have you (or any family members) purchased anything for a baby?
Nope. Though I'm sure I'll make up for lost time the second I get a BFP.

[LadyD088]

Julss05 - Sorry to hear it sounds like AF is on here way. I just finished with her visit...hoping its the last one I see for (oh let's say)...9 months? LOL Hope he visit is quick. Always confusing the whole luteal phase and such. I can't deal with the temping every morning. So I go on my own signs. Any chance you can incorporate those with FF? Just so you can get a better idea of when you O?

WestieMomma - I hear ya on those thinking about #2 already. I know a few of my friends are there, already pg with #2 as a matter of fact. Crazy. I get kind of jealous but just have to remember my time will be here soon (I hope).

JLRenheos - WELCOME!! I completely feel the same way. My 2 friends are due to have babies next year. Our baby would have been born in Dec (near the holidays). So I am really hoping to be PG so I can get thru that and my friends deliveries. Sad to think like that but whatever helps us!! You know?

That is great that you've been given so much!! Awesome!! And some of the big stuff too!! Very cool.

The only thing I found out about trying to TTC with friends, is when they get PG and you don't...its very hard for them to discuss their excitement, etc...while you are sitting there thinking it could be you as well. Hard when one person gets it first!! Of course, it all goes away but hard in the beginning. Now, I couldn't be happier for my friends!

KaliLily - So glad someone else can understand. However, I luckily didn't have to deal with selling/buying a house!!! Just the moving part. I couldn't imagine if he was out of the country though!! I have 12 more days to go...that's less then 2 weeks right? LOL
*******************************
Update: AF has left the building!! WOO HOO!!! I just HOPE my O works out to be a wee bit late (like normal) so that when DH comes home, we can BD and all will work out. Not sure I could take another month of NOT trying (since its been since May).

Deb

[MaybeMamas]

UPDATED TO HERE!!

[LynzeyAHL]

CC Name: LynzeyAHL
Me: Lindsey, 28
DH: Dan, 24
Married: 10/30/2003
TTC start date: December 2005
Any other children: 2 kitties and 1 angel baby
Miscellaneous Info: Diabetic and low progesterone - fertility drugs coming to a uterus near you. :o

[Julss05]

I ended up calling in sick today because my cramping was real bad:(. It's not so bad on birth control but I'm not on any right now and won't be until after our first is born. Anyone else get bad cramps? If childbirth is this bad I think I can handle it but any worse and I'd definitely be asking for drugs!;). I took some Midol but still feel horrible. Anyone get a prescription for cramps? My cousin had to but I can't remember what was prescribed. On a good note this means I can go to the wine tasting festival this weekend! I've never gone to one, sounded fun. Might as well live it up a little while I can right?!

LadyD088-Hope it's your last! Good luck!

[KaliLily]

I've noticed my PMS/Menstrual symptoms overall are worse off of BCPs. Ever since I started ovulating (on my own! :) ) last Summer I get really sore breasts, bad cramps and my joints (particularly wrists and elbows) hurt. I also get extremely tired. Interestingly, though, the breast tenderness has eased up the last 2 cycles. Last month AF surprised me because I hadn't had any breast tenderness. They're a little tender this time, though!

I just want AF to arrive soon (I'm on day 29) so I can start monitoring for ovulation and get the BDing started! :D

[LadyD088]

Julss05 - Thanks! I hope its the last cycle but I'm not going to be too heart broken if its not. I am just TRYING not to put all my hopes in one basket. Luckily DH is coming back one day earlier but it all depends on that O!

As for symptoms, I am pretty lucky. I only get bitchy a few days before. I do sometimes get back pain but nothing else. However, in high school, I used to be out and in bed due to cramps so I know how you feel. It wasn't until I was OFF of BC that my symptoms got SO much better. Weird, huh, how we are all so different.

LynzeyAHL WELCOME!!! I really hope that 2007 is your year, looks like you've been waiting.
*******************************
QOTD: What are your feelings about becoming a mother (parents)?
(BTW, anyone can make QOTD's too!!!)

QOTD: I am excited, nervous, and anxious. Excited because its a new chapter in our lives. I feel that we are completely ready to move on to starting our own family. Nervous because I'm scared that my families issues will be my own (taking years and years to get pg, even with medical treatments). Anxious because, honestly, I just want it to happen already! I've been with DH for 14 years. I have dreamt about what our kids would like like forever...I want to know already. I know our parents are the same way too...everyone is anxious for us to have kids.

Deb

[Reenie]

QOTD: What are your feelings about becoming a mother (parents)?

Sort of the same as yours... excited and anxious. Nervous because I am hoping that we won't have a long TTC road ahead. Nervous because I finally realized that we will never, ever be 100% ready. Nervous because this is a whole person, you know? And excited and anxious because we're ready, ready, ready. I am not even too excited about the thought of pregnancy... I want that little baby already so I can kiss the ten fingers and ten toes, smell that new baby smell, etc etc.

[WestieMomma]

I took some Midol but still feel horrible. Anyone get a prescription for cramps? My cousin had to but I can't remember what was prescribed.

I think the medication you are thinking of is called Anaprox. It's the RX version of Aleve basically. Maybe your dr would give you a rx for it. Hang in there! I am scared to see what my cramps are going to be like when I go off the pill in Dec !

QOTD: What are your feelings about becoming a mother (parents)?
basically the same as everyone else..nervous but so excited!

[PookiePrincess]

QOTD: What are your feelings about becoming a mother (parents)?
I am so freaking ready to get started that I can't wait! Being around babies and my nieces makes me want one NOW! As far as my feelings though, I'm not too nervous or anything, just ready to get moving with it. I feel like I've been talking about it for too long and now I'm ready to just do it. The past several days at school it's all another teacher and I have been talking about!

I think part of it though that makes it worse is being a teacher. I see kids all day long. I see some kids and some parents and just shake my head. I guess it's given me a lot to think about and I've seen lots of things I want to do as a parent and lots of things I don't want to do.

[Reenie]

I think part of it though that makes it worse is being a teacher. I see kids all day long. I see some kids and some parents and just shake my head. I guess it's given me a lot to think about and I've seen lots of things I want to do as a parent and lots of things I don't want to do.

Tell me about it! And add to that the fact that I teach high school and see pregnant STUDENTS all day, so the feelings get compounded. I am just ready. It is silly to be jealous of a pregnant 15 year old, but sometimes I am. :o Not that I want to be 15 again, but pregnant, heck yeah.

[Julss05]

QOTD: What are your feelings about becoming a mother (parents)?
My feelings about becoming a mother are many feelings. Excitement to finally make a human being with the man I love. Curious to know what our kids will act and look like, who they'll take after in good and bad ways:rolleyes:. Some anxiety over how we will handle parenting issues, even though we get along great I'm sure there will be times we'll have different ideas on how to handle our future kids. Scared about making mistakes and possible health problems. The satisfaction of creating something that will love you back unconditionally. Feeling comfortable with the idea of becoming a mother which I never thought I'd be. Happy to start the next chapter in our life as husband and wife. Looking forward to sharing my life with another life and sharing everything I know with them. Worried about not enough time in the day, but I imagine other things that currently seem important will be pushed aside to make time for our new little one. An overwhelming but good feeling knowing something so small will forever change our lives. I have so many other feelings, I'm sure the same as many of you it's hard to put it all into words without writing a novel!

WestieMomma Thanks. Are they blue pills? That's all I remember.

LadyD088 I did get one nice symptom since coming off birth control and that is shorter periods. They use to last for at least 7 days sometimes longer and very heavy but now it lasts no more than 3 days. Sure wish the cramping had stayed behind though.

[JLRenheos]

LadyD088 - Thanks for the warm welcome! I guess we're fortunate that we won't have to buy some of the big items, esp. the cribs! I guess it'll be a rat race to see who will become pregnant first among the girlfriend & I. The year 2007, will be a good year, we hope anyway!

My last af was in Aug., I skipped the month of Sept. and I'm feeling she's on her way anytime now. I have been exhausted, sore bbs & waay bitchy - just ask my husband. I have Provera for a back up. It's been a recurring problem for me as far as having irregular periods.

QOTD What are your feelings about becoming a mother (parents)?
Nervous, and scared. I want to be a really great Mom. Someone, who's always going to be there & who will always lend an ear. I want to be the type of Mom, that you can go to for anything. I'm sure overwhelming, at first. It's something new to my DH & I, foreign like. It'll be something that we've never experienced before in our entire lives. We're really excited to take this journey to the next step & become parents for the 1st time. We get to be role models in our child's life and live through the eye's of our child.

[LynzeyAHL]

we're getting a puppy for christmas and I'm more nevous about training a dog to behave than I am of having a baby and being a parent haha what is wrong with that statement?!? :o

[LadyD088]

LynzeyAHL - Awww, how sweet!!! You will have to post a pic when you get your puppy! And TOO funny about training it v's having a baby and being a parent. Nothing wrong with that statement. The puppy is the here and now. Have fun and GOOD LUCK!

Deb

[LynzeyAHL]

LynzeyAHL - Awww, how sweet!!! You will have to post a pic when you get your puppy! And TOO funny about training it v's having a baby and being a parent. Nothing wrong with that statement. The puppy is the here and now. Have fun and GOOD LUCK!

Deb

haha thanks Deb we're getting a golden doodle (standard poodle golden retreiver mix) my cats are going to HATE us! lol its pretty exciting to know its going to be born in November soon and be ready to come home in december that's only about 8 weeks! :eek:

[Julss05]

golden doodle (standard poodle golden retreiver mix)
Our friends got one of those. She's about a year old now and cute, just as energetic as a retreiver without all the shedding. They have a lab too and it gets along pretty well with it. I thought they'd be a lot smaller than a retreiver but only by a little bit. Have fun!:)

[Julss05]

QOTD-Anyone losing weight before TTC? I'm about 25-30 pounds overweight and am trying to lose that much before TTC. I'm on no special diet just eating healthier and have lost 5 lbs. so far. I'm not worried about gaining weight during pregnancy as much as being a possible high risk pregnancy with being overweight to start with and what complications that could pose.

Also is anyone getting the flu shot? I don't usually but will be getting one because of TTC. I'm trying to prepare as best as I can on my end to make a healthy home for baby to be:).

[JLRenheos]

QOTD-Anyone losing weight before TTC? I certainly need to get back into the process again. I stopped working out in June & haven't done anything since. I worked out for a 1 1/2 steadily & then quit. I want to go back to the walking trac at my local rec. center, back to weight lifting & some of the other machines. I would like to lose about 30-35 lbs. & be able to maintain it.

I'm not planning on getting the flu shot.

[Sue]

I'm a little behind here...

QOTD: What are your feelings about becoming a mother (parents)?
Pretty much the same as everyone else, nervous, scared and excited at the same time. I want to be the type of mom that is pretty much the opposite of the relationship I have with my mother. I want my child to be able to talk to me about anything, to be a friend as well as a parent.

QOTD-Anyone losing weight before TTC?
I'm just trying to lose weight in general, not specifically because of TTC. I'm doing WW, when I was doing it in the summer, I lost 15 pounds. I just started back on it and it's been a rocky couple of weeks, but I've lost 4 lbs. I want to get back down to around 115 - just about another 18 lbs. to go. I'd like to be at my good weight and enjoy it for a little bit before getting pregnant :)


ETA... Not planning on getting the flu shot, I've never had in the past and since we're not TTC until the spring, I don't see the need.

[PookiePrincess]

QOTD-Anyone losing weight before TTC? I don't plan on losing any weight, but I'd like to exercise and keep up with it. I usually start and then get sick or something else happens and I stop. Once I get out of the habit, it's hard to start back up again.

Flu shot-I'm not getting one since we don't plan to TTC until next summer. I am a teacher so I'm around kids all day, but I've never gotten the flu. *knock on wood*

[Sue]

QOTD-Anyone losing weight before TTC? I don't plan on losing any weight, but I'd like to exercise and keep up with it. I usually start and then get sick or something else happens and I stop. Once I get out of the habit, it's hard to start back up again.


Me too. The exercise is more important to me than losing the weight. I want my body to be in good shape and to keep it up throughout my pregnancy. In the end, it'll help with labor and helping my body bounce back afterwards.

[Reenie]

Flu Shot?
Nope.

Losing Weight? I am 7 pounds overweight, so of course, I'm trying to lose that before TTC; I'd like to lose an additional 10, but if I just lose the 7, I won't be upset.

[amew]

Hey, gang. Can I join? We are definitely hoping that 2007 will be the Year of the Baby for us, and I think I need a place to share my thoughts on the process.

Me: L, 29
DH: C, 30
Married: 8/01
TTC start date: Oct./Nov. 2006
Any other children: No kids, but one really cute Beagle pup.

I stopped taking BCP two months ago, and just finished my second post-pill period. So far, we have more or less been trying to avoid, though we haven't really been overly careful. Now we are both feeling increasingly ready and downright anxious to start trying, so I think that we are going to throw caution to the wind and get on with it in a couple weeks when I hit the fertile part of my cycle. But I had blood drawn for a cystic fibrosis screening and a rubella titre at my annual last week, so I would like to wait for the results before jumping in.

QOTD: What are your feelings about becoming a mother (parents)?
Same as everyone else--excited, nervous, scared. My mom rocks, and I am a little overwhelmed by the pressure I know I will put on myself to be the kind of mom she is/was. And I am very nervous about balancing my job and my kids, and, to a slightly lesser extent, about how my relationship with DH will be impacted by a baby. But I am so darn excited to see and hold our child, to know what that child will look like/act like/be interested in/etc., and, mostly, to show our kid the world.

QOTD: Anyone losing weight before TTC?
Nah, not really. I am pretty happy with my weight. I am trying to exercise and eat healthy just because, though. And if I lose a couple pounds in the process, great.

Flu shot? No. I've had allergic reactions to the shot (swelling, hives) the past two years, so I am skipping it this year. I have reacted to several different vaccines through out the course of my life, so I obviously have an issue with one of the common preservatives or something. But if I didn't have a negative reaction, I would definitely get the vaccine. In general, I think the flu shot is a very good idea.

[Julss05]

Can you please update my TTC timeframe to just Spring 2007, thanks!

[loving624]

Hey ladies! I can join in on the 2007 being the year of the baby for me!!!

Me: K, 25 yrs old
Him: G, 26 yrs old
Kids: One furbaby Hercules
M/c: None
Other info: Have had 2 bad pap smears. Did biopsy first time, came back as level 1. Waiting on results as we speak for the 2nd biopsy. Dr is more worried this time that it will come back level 2 or 3, meaning I will have to get a treatment, then a wait a month before TTC

OTD: What are your feelings about becoming a mother (parents)?
I am sooooo excited about it. I feel it is the most rewarding job in the world and DH and I are so anxious to get started. I think the best day for me will be holding our little one for the first time.

QOTD: Anyone losing weight before TTC?
Not really, I lost 15 pounds before our wedding and gained 10 of it back, but I am still in the range I should be. But I do need to exercise better

Flu shot?
I didn't get one this year, I had the biopsy the same week and I was worried it would mess with the results. I never get them really

[coquelicot]

Just saw this thread...

CC Name: coquelicot
Me: K, 28
DH: B, 29
Married: October 11, 2003
TTC start date: Summer 2007
Any other children: No, just a lovable mutt

Now to try and answer a few of the QODs:

What are your feelings about becoming a mother (parents)?
I'm scared to death. On the one hand, DH and I have all the variables in place. We've been married a few years, have a home with an extra bedroom, have good jobs and some savings, aren't too young, aren't too old, etc. We're both healthy and have a great support system in our family and friends. But on the other hand, both of my parents are deceased, and neither one of us has family living within an hour of us (closest people are his parents and sisters, 90 minutes away). I'm an only child and pretty much the youngest of my cousins, so I have next to no experience with babies (all of my babysitting was with older children). DH was the youngest of his siblings, and even though he has nieces and a nephew, he didn't help out too much with them as babies, especially since he didn't live in the same town as two of them when they were that age. So how in the world do I figure out what to do with that helpless little thing?

Anyone losing weight before TTC?
I could stand to lose 10 pounds, but if it doesn't come off...meh. I'd want to lose it in the belly area, anyway, and it would just come right back. Heck, I've seen women 4 months along with less of a belly than what I've got! I'm just trying to switch to healthier eating habits (more whole grains, more reduced-fat and fat-free foods, etc).

Flu shot?
Not this year, since we won't be TTC until summer. But next year...probably.

[LadyD088]

Hey Girls...I was in MI for 3 days and just got back. ALSO....DH is back in town so, I haven't been around for bit. I will update this weekend though.

So with that....WELCOME NEWBIES!!!!!

QOTD-Anyone losing weight before TTC? Well I hate to say it but I'm about 40lbs overweight and am not doing a thing about it. HOWEVER, I did just start (last week) doing crunches and back exercises...mainly to help with the pg and labor. I would like to keep up any type of exercise I can while pg (which I will discuss with the doctor) since I know I will probably end up being high risk. For some reason, I just feel like I might get the high blood pressure issue. I don't have it now, but you know how you just "feel" about things? Well that's how I feel. I'd like to avoid that. I just know I can't lose that much weight since we are already TTCing.

OOOHhhh (ETA):
Flue Shot - No, I will not be getting it.

Deb

[WestieMomma]

QOTD-Anyone losing weight before TTC? Yes I would like to lose 10-20 lbs. I had lost 10 over the spring but have been bad lately and not exercising like I had been so I've gained it back :( I can do it though. I really enjoy working out and am usually very faithful I have been so busy lately with work. Excuses, excuses!! but I would like to be as healthy as possible before becoming pg.

Did anyone happen to catch the thing about obesity and pregnancy on the Today show? I think it was on Tue or Wed? I saw the commercial about it so I Tivo'd. It was very interesting. The said that overweight pg women are more likely to end up with c-sections and then of course have hypertension and gestational diabetes. The doctor on there said that losing just 5-10% of your body fat before becoming pg can really decrease your chances of ending up with complications like hypertension, etc. They also said that obese pg women are now being told not to gain any weight during pregnancy but if they do only 5-10 lbs max.

Flu shot? Already got one but I work in a family practice so I am around sick people all the time. Supposedly the Flu Mist is going to offer better coverage this year than the flu shot.

[raven077]

What are your feelings about becoming a mother (parents)?
Actually still pretty nervous. I'm kinda glad I'm still taking Lamisil which means we have to play it safe for a little bit longer. Originally, this anniversary weekened was when we had talked about starting to try (even though I'm past my O now). I'm also pretty nervous about the toll the pregnancy will take on my back with the problems I have. I had hoped that with all the treatments I've been doing that I would be in a better spot by this point, but I'm not. I do know though that when it happens, we'll be ready. We both love our little godson to pieces, and DH is so wonderful with kids. We'll muddle through somehow just like everyone else. ;)

Anyone losing weight before TTC?
I had lost over 20 lbs in the two years before our wedding, and in the past 10 months have gained about 15 back. Doctors are testing adrenal glands and thyroid, but I know I haven't been getting as much exercise as I was. For some reason, I have no energy now. But we both just signed up for a membership at our local Recreation Center which has a huge gym and some classes that we can take. I was planning on starting again in early November, and DH will officially start in January. My goal is to be back down the 15 lbs, PLUS 5 more by December/January.

Flu shot?
Nope, never have, and prolly never will.

[MaybeMamas]

UPDATED TO HERE!!!

Loving624 - I went ahead and put you at TTCing in Dec. Just let me know if that changes. Good luck with the test!!!! Hope it all works out.

[KaliLily]

Wow. There have been a lot of QOTDs that I haven't gotten to. My life's been a little busy lately. Good busy, but still busy.

What are your feelings about becoming a mother (parents)? I know I'm usually very wordy, but the answer to this one is simple: That I'm ready. It was like a switch went off in me and I knew it was time.

Anyone losing weight before TTC? I am horribly in need of losing weight, so I have been trying since Spring. I'm only down about 8 lbs and have hit several roadblocks, but I'm still trying to eat healthy and get some exercise. I'm not on a diet plan. I'm just trying to be sensible - more protein, dairy and whole grains, less junk! My ob/gyn thought this was a good strategy.

Flu shot? Most definitely! I got really sick from the flu 2 days after Christmas last year, which is unusual for me. I guess my body doesn't have the right immunities for the East Coast (I grew up on the West Coast). So this year I am determined to get a flu shot. I've never had an adverse reaction to the vaccine, so I'm not concerned.

And an update on my TTC planning: I'm on CD 41 now :eek: and I'm extremely frustrated! I'd had a normal cycle length (32-34 days) since Spring and now when I'm ready to TTC my body goes back to its old tricks. I've had PMS symptoms for a couple weeks now, but still nothing! (And I know I'm not PG) Oh well, maybe my body knew that DH was going to be out of the country at ovulation time next month, so it's resetting itself. :)

I was sick from late August to early October (sinus infection, severe bronchitis) so maybe that's messed me up a little. Here's hoping I get back on track. I don't want to have to resort to filling my Clomid prescription.

[Reenie]

QOTD: Is anybody scared of being pregnant?

I am. I think that I will be a nervous nelly until (well, probably after, too!) I get that baby in my arms. It seems like recently I've become more cognizant of all of the people who suffer miscarriages and infant loss, and that is just absolutely terrifying for me. I also worry about things like GD and HBP, but that's why I'm going to lose my few extra pounds before TTC so that shouldn't become an issue (actually, I'm not sure that it's that much of an issue now; as I said, I'm only 7 pounds overweight but still...).

[dancn226]

Can I Join?? DH and i have been TTC since Aug. I want to Join, since we have had NO luck thus far!!!!

Me~Danc (Jenn) 26 sson to be 27
DH~Chris 29
Married July 3, 2005 1 year already

Could you please add me.

THx:D

[Sue]

Welcome to all the newcomers!!

QOTD: Is anybody scared of being pregnant?
Not really... not in terms of a m/c or infant loss. That will probably change when we become pregnant - once it's real.

[PookiePrincess]

QOTD: Is anybody scared of being pregnant?

I wouldn't say I'm scared of being pregnant. I'm more scared of having problems getting pregnant. DH thinks it'll be simple and will happen the first month we try. I'm not quite that optimistic. Of course, my cycles have been wacky, so I think that's part of it. Sometimes I feel like these boards are so full of information, but they provide more information about the negative aspects too (m/c and losses, infertility, and that statistic that there's only like a 20% chance to get pg each month). I never knew facts about all of that and sometimes I wish I still didn't know!

[Julss05]

QOTD: Is anybody scared of being pregnant?
Sure. Scared of physical and emotional changes that will take place plus sustaining a healthy pregnancy overall. The other day I wondered if pregnant women ever get a suffication feeling from sharing their body with another being, but I know that may just be a weird thought that never happens:o.

[amew]

QOTD: Is anybody scared of being pregnant?

I am scared about not being able to get pregnant, I am scared of the magnitude of being a parent and all that comes with it, and I am somewhat scared about labor, but I am not that scared of pregnancy itself. One of my biggest pregnancy-related fears is that I will feel so awful that I won't be able to work effectively--I can't imagine having to sit in my office feeling completely exhausted and nauseated day after day. And I do have fears about pregnancy loss (my mom had a miscarriage at 5 months and a full-term still born, so I've always been hyper-aware of the possibility), but I simply won't let myself dwell on that fear.

[angelcookie2002]

Can I join?

CC Name:Angelcookie2002
Me: Danielle, 23
DH: Benji, 25
Married: 9/9/2004
TTC start date: Sept 07, right after our 3rd anniversary
Misc: We're taking a 3 week vacation to kick off TTC and as a last time for the two of us before we have kids.

[KaliLily]

QOTD: Is anybody scared of being pregnant?

I am scared about not being able to get pregnant, I am scared of the magnitude of being a parent and all that comes with it, and I am somewhat scared about labor, but I am not that scared of pregnancy itself.

What she said. :)

[coquelicot]

QOTD: Is anybody scared of being pregnant?
At this point, no, but ask me again closer to TTC time. :) I don't have any known health conditions that would complicate things, and I have a wonderfully supportive DH. I'm not quite sure how much my body's going to change. What worries me the most are the hormonal changes. I can be majorly moody even when AF's not visiting, and it can get worse around that time of month. I've already warned DH to be prepared! :D

[LadyD088]

QOTD: Is anybody scared of being pregnant?
I am not scared of being pg, in fact I look forward to it very much so. I am scared of not getting pg due to amew's issues with her mom (same with my mom,1 still born. 4 mc, and then me - that was it) That really scares me but I try not to dwell on those because I am a different person.

What does make me nervous is labor...I'm not scared, I just wonder how it really will be. However, from what I've heard from all my friends that have been pg, I really look forward to the experience and welcome all the changes.

Deb

[KaliLily]

CD 43 and AF is finally starting to come around the mountain (whew!), but OMG the cramps are horrible!!!!! I think I'll be taking the easy way out tonight and ordering pizza for dinner. Between AF's impending arrival, morning yardwork and afternoon laundry I'm exhausted!

Now I just have to decide whether to track ovulation and see if I can do it "on my own" or give in and take my Clomid.

[PookiePrincess]

I hear ya, KaliLily. I'm on CD 51 and it's been one long, crazy cycle (though we aren't TTC yet). Hopefully AF will be here soon.

[Sue]

That is one thing I am very thankful for... My cycles have pretty much returned to normal after being on the pill for over 15 years. Charting has been an eye opening experience, such subtle changes that mean so much :)

[LeslieandPaul]

CC Name: LeslieandPaul
Me: Leslie, 22 (23 in February)
DH: Paul, 29
Married: August 20, 2005
TTC start date: Hopefully Fall 2007 (we'll probably be taking a cruise in October for DH's 30th b-day, so that may be our kick off)
Any other children: 2 kittens, Stella and Octane
Miscellaneous Info:Currently CTA (for over 20 months). DH has been exposed to radiation over the years b.c of his job, which worries me

QOTD:
I know this might be a little early but has anyone thought of baby names Yup. I had names I liked and then bought the Baby Name Wizard, so I've changed my mind a bit. DH is Italian, so I'd like to take that into consideration.
For a boy I like Cole, Vincent, Matteo, or Evan.
For a girl, Sophie, Charlotte, Mia (probably shortened from Maria-Paul's aunt's name), Gina, and a few others that I can't think of right now

Do your family and friends know you plan on (or already are) starting a family? Everyone knows we plan on having children, just not when.

Have you (or any family members) purchased anything for a baby?
I'm sure my mom's bought some things. I've bought some clothes (i used to work at the Gap so I picked up some cheap stuff), a Boppy, and fabric to make into bedding (i've already painted the spare room in preparation for a baby).

What are your feelings about becoming a mother (parents)?
It's so scary, but so exciting. I can picture myself with a baby, and I think I'll do okay with that, but I really wonder what kind of parent I'll be and what my child would be like.

Anyone losing weight before TTC?
I've lost 10 lbs recently, and would like to lose 5 more, but I don't need/plan to lose weight before TTC

Flu Shot? I don't know if I"ll get one this year, but next year since we'll hopefully be TTC, I'll probably get one.

Is anybody scared of being pregnant?
I'm scared of having morning sickness, or not being able to get pregnant, and of labour and delivery, but not of being pregnant.

[KaliLily]

I hear ya, KaliLily. I'm on CD 51 and it's been one long, crazy cycle (though we aren't TTC yet). Hopefully AF will be here soon.

Sending some of my hormones to you. Hope they help! ;)

Speaking of hormones and AF...

QOTD: Does anyone else get a cleaning/organizing bug up their butt when AF is arriving/about to arrive? Over the weekend I mended a sock and our comforter, which has been torn along the bottom seam for over a year. (It took me about 2 hours on Saturday night and another 2 hours or so Sunday afternoon. I hand-sewed it, I don't have a sewing machine, nor do I know how to use one.) Today I decided to go outside and weed whack since it was an unusually warm, windless day for late Oct. I also did laundry, handwashed some dishes and picked up a little downstairs. Oh, and I made the bed! The only time I make the bed is when company is coming. Who am I?!?!?!

[bethnjim]

Here is my info:

Beth
Me: Beth, 28
DH: Jim, 26
Married: 07/12/03
TTC start date: July 2007
Any other children: 4 cats, Belle, Stitch, Cali and Feona

We have finally decided on a month and year. We were originally putting it off, but we feel like it might be time so we got out a calendar.

[LadyD088]

LOL Kim!!! Not sure I've related it to AF but there are times when I just MUST clean and its always at night. Like I will get a bug up my butt to fully scrub the bathroom, etc... Weird. And I HATE when that happens because it only happens late at night, like 11pm. I wish I would get one of those bugs now...I have some major dusting to do! LOL Happy cleaning!

WELCOME BETH, LESLIE, DANIELLE, AND JENN!!!!

Deb

[MaybeMamas]

UPDATED TO HERE!!!

Welcome ALL Newbies!!! Our little thread is growing so quickly...and its not even 2007 yet!! WOO HOO!!!

[JFlo]

Can I join?


CC Name: JFlo
Me: J, 27
DH: E, 27
Married: August 2003
TTC start date: March 2007
Any other children: none
Miscellaneous Info: going off BCP (and on PNV) in December, have read TCOYF and plan to start charting, DH and I are going to Hawaii in May 2007...this was going to be our last big vacation pre-pregnancy, but now with our timing shift, we could possibly be with-baby!


QOTD:
I know this might be a little early but has anyone thought of baby names/We have an on-going excel spreadsheet of baby names. When we hear a name or a name comes to mind that we both agree on, it goes on the list.

Do your family and friends know you plan on (or already are) starting a family? Our family and friends are under the impression that we're going to wait until DH is done with his masters degree. Eventhough we've pushed up our date, we're not going to tell anyone.

Have you (or any family members) purchased anything for a baby?
nope.

What are your feelings about becoming a mother (parents)?
We are so excited to become parents! We constantly talk about TTC, what our kids will be like, what they will look like, etc. But, we are also big planners so it's kind of in our nature to discuss these things at length.

Anyone losing weight before TTC?
I don't necessarily want to lose weight since my weight is average for my height, but I do want to get myself in better shape so that I can continue to exercise throughout pregnancy.

Flu Shot? Yes, I will be getting one this year.

Is anybody scared of being pregnant?
I'm a huge worry wort, so lots of things scare me...I'm scared we will have a hard time getting pregnant (and/or staying pregnant); I'm scared that we really just don't know how much a baby will change our lives; I'm scared that my DH and I won't be first in each others lives, etc. But actually being pregnant...no, not really scared. It may help that for the most part people who are close to me who have been pregnant have had it pretty easy, so I haven't heard that many horror stories.

[LadyD088]

WELCOME JEN!!!

[amew]

So I think I may be in or almost in my first ever official 2WW. :eek: I don't temp (I tried, but I was terrible at it--I never get up at the same time, sometimes only get a couple hours sleep, would often forget to temp altogether, etc.), but I do watch my CM and keep close tabs on my cycle. Today is CD 14, and I had EWCM Sunday, yesterday, and today. This is my third cycle off BCP, and the first two were both 28 days, with EWCM starting around CD 11 and drying up after CD 14. We had sex Saturday, Sunday, and this morning, so I think we may have covered our bases pretty well.

Now I am totally excited, anxious, and, honestly, pretty darn freaked out by this whole TTC. Oh well, guess there's no turning back now. :)

[KaliLily]

So I think I may be in or almost in my first ever official 2WW.

Now I am totally excited, anxious, and, honestly, pretty darn freaked out by this whole TTC. Oh well, guess there's no turning back now. :)

Sending good thoughts your way!!!! :D :D

[JLRenheos]

amew - Best of Luck to you in your 1st 'official' 2ww!

I'm so glad af left today. It's been a painful one. I haven't had af since August. I guess my body just decided to up and skip the month of September. I do have provera for a back up, though. Now, if I can keep my af regular then I'd be right back on track.

QOTD - BABY NAMES We've talked about several baby names that we like. I think we're going to keep them to ourselves for right now. We have nothing in stone.
We did have a boys name(Jack/Jackson) that we both liked very much, however, my SIL/BIL named their 3rd/last son(Jack) THE name we liked. They never knew we liked that name & we had never discussed baby names with them before.

QOTD -Does anyone get the cleaning/organizing bug when af is here/arriving? No, not really. More than anything I feel less motivated during that time frame . It's due to being sleepy & having cramps and being grouchy.

QOTD - Is anyone scared of being pregnant?
Wait until Jan. or Feb. and then ask me that question. ;)
Yeah, I think so just a little. I'm sure it's a natural feeling.

[Sue]

So I think I may be in or almost in my first ever official 2WW. :eek:
Now I am totally excited, anxious, and, honestly, pretty darn freaked out by this whole TTC. Oh well, guess there's no turning back now. :)

How exciting!!

[kanga1622]

I'd like to join.

Kanga1622
Me: 26
DH: 28
Married: 08/31/02
TTC: 02/06-11/06 Starting again 03/07
Any other children: our pup, 2
Miscellaneous Info: Charting since July 2003

We are taking a break for 4 months for me to work out a slight health issue and plan to start TTC again in March. Which means we're very unlikely to have a baby until 2008! That thought freaks me out big time!

[LadyD088]

Originally Posted by amew
So I think I may be in or almost in my first ever official 2WW.

Very cool!! I am in my 2WW now too. When are you going to test? I am looking at Nov 8 as a test date, if AF doesn't arrive.

Good Luck. Its a very trying time, I'll say that!!! Try NOT to think about the testing and wanting to test early. Try to wait until after AF would have arrived - makes for better results.

Deb

[WestieMomma]

QOTD Is anybody scared of being pregnant?
No not really. I guess I'm a little concerned that I will get morning sickness and be a total wussy if I do that but other than that not too worried.

QOTD -Does anyone get the cleaning/organizing bug when af is here/arriving?
No...I wish! In fact I just starting having a cleaning lady come in the past month because I was sick of having to spend a portion of my weekends cleaning, plus I'm lazy! lol! I have been getting the cooking bug lately though but I love to cook more when the cooler fall weather hits.

Good luck to the ladies who are in the 2WW. I was going to finish up my last two pill packs which would put me being done in Dec. but I am really thinking about quitting this month..my last pill may be taken this Sat-we'll see if I chicken out or not!:D

[amew]

Good luck to you, too, Deb! Thanks for the well wishes, all.

Very cool!! I am in my 2WW now too. When are you going to test? I am looking at Nov 8 as a test date, if AF doesn't arrive.

Well, AF is due Nov. 15, so I may try to hold out until then. Since it's our first time trying, I'm not really expecting it to work, so I haven't really thought about testing. But I suspect all that will change as I get further along in the 2WW! I am already kicking myself for not seducing DH again yesterday to get a last shot in...

[LadyD088]

Amew
I am already kicking myself for not seducing DH again yesterday to get a last shot in...
TOO Funny!!! I love it.

Deb

[KaliLily]

Re testing: I was looking over my instruction sheet from my doctor and he recommended testing if AF hasn't arrived by CD 35. And before you laugh at my instruction sheet, it's because of my PCOS. My DR rattled off all these steps when he was prescribing Clomid and offered to write it down so I wouldn't forget. :)

QOTD: How long do you plan to TTC "on your own" before consulting a doctor? Given my history of PCOS, we'll probably TTC for 6 months before seeking further testing/assistance - unless Clomid stops being effective. I can only take Clomid for 6 months at a time anyway. (Though I have decided not to take it this month. If I don't O on my own, I'll start the Clomid in December.)

[coquelicot]

QOTD: How long do you plan to TTC "on your own" before consulting a doctor?
Hmm...a year, maybe? As impatient as we can be when we want something, though, it might end up being sooner. Let's see how frustrated we get first.

[LeslieandPaul]

QOTD: How long do you plan to TTC "on your own" before consulting a doctor?
6 months. I know they say to wait a year, but considering DH's exposure to radiation, and the problems I've had with my cycles in the past, a year is too long for me.

[Sue]

QOTD: How long do you plan to TTC "on your own" before consulting a doctor?

Probably about 6 months... I'm CTA and my cycles are pretty regular - no problems since I've been off the pill.

[JFlo]

QOTD: How long do you plan to TTC "on your own" before consulting a doctor?

Probably 6 months. Although as someone with a Type A personality, it will probably kill me to wait even that long.

Good luck to the ladies in their 2WW!! Exciting :)

[PookiePrincess]

QOTD: How long do you plan to TTC "on your own" before consulting a doctor?

Probably 6 months. When we do TTC, I'll have been charting for a year and that should be plenty of time to see if anything is not right. Then, 6 months of trying and I'll be more than ready.

[LadyD088]

QOTD: How long do you plan to TTC "on your own" before consulting a doctor?
**Hmm, I think I would wait until June. That will put us at trying for 8 months. But who knows, DH might get frustrated and ask to see a doctor sooner - we'll see!

Deb

[amew]

QOTD: How long do you plan to TTC "on your own" before consulting a doctor?

Probably around 6 months. I am pretty regular and have no known issues, so if nothing has happened after six months, I think I would want a sperm assessment to rule out male factor.

My best friend and her DH did a sperm assessment after 5 months because she was charting, knew she was ovulating, knew they were timing it perfectly, and didn't get pg. They were told to go straight to IVF due to poor sperm quality. She ended up conceiving triplets during her "trial run" on the meds the cycle before they were scheduled to start IVF.

[Julss05]

QOTD -Does anyone get the cleaning/organizing bug when af is here/arriving?
Yes just before AF you can find me cleaning every part of the house! It's weird but not a bad symptom I think;). I also clean when I'm very upset.

QOTD: How long do you plan to TTC "on your own" before consulting a doctor?
6-10 months. Although my mom got pregnant with all of us the first time without birth control with different men so I might be concerned that I have fertility issues if it doesn't happen after say 5 attempts of perfect timing. My brother inherited the fertility gene too, got his wife pregnant twice the only two times they didn't use anything. Maybe I won't be that lucky but we'll see, I know it could also mean fertility issues with DH so we'd explore that too after trying for a while.

My friend just found out she is having a girl! I'm so excited for her, that is the gender she was hoping for. I kind of guessed it would be a girl based on the simple fact that she didn't track her ovulation and probably BD earlier than O.

Well I got to go to work:(. Wish I could stay on here and chat. T.G.I.F

Good luck Amew!

[rubyslippers]

Hi ladies! Well the wedding is over the thank yous are sent and here we are! :) We knew because of my age we would want to TTC asap. Although whenever we do it won't be soon enough for the in-laws. They are very ready for grandchildren. My fam is fine since there is a nephew and 2 nieces thanks to my brother and sister.

CC Name:rubyslippers
Me: Heather,34
DH: Kurt,32
Married: 10/15/06
TTC start date: January 2007
Any other children:none for either of us
Miscellaneous Info:I've been doing WW and would like to loose another 20-25 lbs to be at a healthier weight before getting PG No known issues other than my AGE:)

We'll try on our own for 6 months before consulting a doctor. I had my annual visit in August and did that visit as a pre-conception visit.

[Reenie]

Welcome rubyslippers! Congrats on your marriage. :)

QOTD: How long do you plan to TTC "on your own" before consulting a doctor?
I don't really know. Maybe six months to a year? I know that a lot of doctors won't even see you if it hasn't been a year and you're in your 20s (which we are/will be). I have been charting for almost a year (I'm on my 13th complete chart this month... I did a half-month trial last November and started really charting last December); I know that I'm ovulating and have short luteal phases. I have started taking vitamins for the short LP and they actually seem to be working, so hopefully by this summer, I'll have nice long LPs.

[raven077]

Welcome again to all the new ladies. :)

QOTD: How long do you plan to TTC "on your own" before consulting a doctor?
We'll probably do six months. So far I've been charting since March, just starting my 10th cycle, so I feel that I'll have a pretty good handle on things. My LP can be fairly short at times and at the best of times, it's only been in the mid-range. Though I just did an adrenal spit test for my chiro and one of the things they tested for was Progesterone and my doctor said mine was in a really good range so maybe I'm ok. We'll see when we start trying. :)

[MaybeMamas]

UPDATED TO HERE!!

Welcome ALL Newbies!!!

[kanga1622]

We plan to try for a year before really consulting a doctor. We've already been trying for 9 months. I have my annual exam in 2 weeks so I'll talk to the doc then but I know they won't do anything until it has been a full year. I'm just worried they will want me to have 12 cycles before getting worried and that would take me almost 16 months.

So much for waiting: we decided just to keep trying so my TTC date can go back to 02/06.

[filmgirl7]

CC Name: filmgirl7
Me: Carrie, 29 next Tuesday
DH: J, 33
Married: 1/7/06
TTC start date: 1/07
Any other children: nope
Miscellaneous Info: no known issues to speak of, just a lot of anxiety about the process.

Well, I held out for as long as I could, but since I now know that we won't be expecting a July baby, it's time to join. We made an attempt this past cycle (our first real try) but it didn't happen, so i'm trying my best to just move on.

It helps that we JUST moved, and just joined a gym too, so there's lots to keep me busy over the next 2.5 months until we can try again. (We're avoiding August and September babies.)

I'm going to go back and read through some of what has already been posted.

[Reenie]

Welcome, filmgirl7! Your post prompted me to think of this:

QOTD: If you could pick your due date/baby's birth date, what would it be and why?

I would pick anytime in the month of May because I am a teacher (we get out of school mid-June) and I'd like to use my accumulated time off (paid) and then have the whole summer off (paid) with the baby.

[LadyD088]

QOTD: If you could pick your due date/baby's birth date, what would it be and why?

I guess I would have to pick Dec...I just LOVE the holidays and would love a holiday baby - what a wonderful present every year to be reminded of the beautiful gift brought into the world at such a magical time. I have heard people hate their bdays during the holidays but I would hope my child wouldn't...that is if I could pick their bday.

Unfortunantly, if we are pg right now, my kid will have to settle for a smack in the middle of summer pool party!!! LOL

I will be testing on Sunday. Will post when I know.

Deb

[Julss05]

QOTD: If you could pick your due date/baby's birth date, what would it be and why?

Either in the fall (October, November, December) months or late spring (end of April or May) because the weather is best. That and we don't have a lot of other family members born in those months. My mom had 3 summer babies and told me that is something I want to avoid I guess because of the already elevated body temp. I realize though it may not happen that way and will take whatever due date is given to me;).

Welcome to the group filmgirl7!

I am SO sick! That's why my chart is crazy looking. We are supposed to go out of town this weekend and I'm hoping the sickness will leave too.

Happy Veteran's Day everyone!:)

[filmgirl7]

Good morning ladies! Thanks for the welcome.

Julss - sorry to hear that you're feeling sick! Feel better soon.

LadyD - Good luck with your test tomorrow!!!

Catching up...
Do your family and friends know you plan on (or already are) starting a family?
My sister in law is really the only one who knows, because we are uber-close. Plus, she just had a baby in May, so she's a good support system for me. Other than that, I don't want to tell anyone until I'm at 10 weeks, assuming I can hide it that long. There are a few reasons for this....for one thing, I guess I just want it to be between me and DH for awhile, so that when i'm puking or having food aversions, others don't need to be involved. Also, though, I want to give the baby a running start and make sure everything is going ok before announcing it to the world. I know that lots of people tell right away when they find out, I just don't think we will.

[MaybeMamas]

UPDATED TO HERE!!

[PookiePrincess]

QOTD: If you could pick your due date/baby's birth date, what would it be and why?

I would pick mid March to mid April. If I had a baby in March, I could take 8 weeks off and go back for the last week of school. Anything later than that, and I'd take the rest of the year off and have all summer with the baby. And, since I live in Texas, I wouldn't be pregnant in the heat of the summer, which I look at to be a big plus. It's hot here until October, so I wouldn't even be very big by then, which is good. Though, like you all said, we'll start trying in June for a March baby and go from there. If it doesn't happen in the first couple of months, we'll take whatever we can get and be happy with that!

[KaliLily]

QOTD: If you could pick your due date/baby's birth date, what would it be and why?


I would pick mid- to late- October, though anytime in October is fine by me.

Fall is my favorite season. DH and I originally planned to marry in the Fall, but not wanting to wait over a year from our engagement we decided to marry in August - for many other (quirky) reasons. :) We also have no family "events" in October, so my child's birthday would be it. Other than the season, though, I really can't explain it. I've just wanted to have an October baby for as long as I can remember.

Of course, at this point in my life (almost 34) I'll take any day of any month. Even my "busy" months like April, May, June, July, & Dec! :)

ETA: Though my MIL has requested I avoid May babies. The 2 grandchildren she has now (from SIL) were both born in May.

[KaliLily]

[ I have heard people hate their bdays during the holidays but I would hope my child wouldn't...that is if I could pick their bday.


Deb,

My birthday is Jan. 1 and I've always loved it. I've never had to go to school or work on my birthday, Christmas decorations (which I love) are still up, and there's a big party worldwide party every year the night before my birthday. :D The only down sides were my locker never got decorated and some people gave a "birthday/Christmas" present rather than breaking it out into 2 gifts. However, my parents always made sure to separate Christmas and my birthday, and when I was in Elementary school my mom would bring my birthday treats into class right after winter break. She was great at making sure my birthday was special and celebrated.

[LeslieandPaul]

QOTD: If you could pick your due date/baby's birth date, what would it be and why?

I would pick November or anytime from March to May. I don't want to have a summer baby because of the heat, December is bad because of Christmas, my mom's birthday is in January, mine is in February, and I would definitely not want to have a baby in October because we have lot's of birthday's: DH, my sister, SIL, DH's best friend, DH's cousin, plus a couple friends, and then there's halloween

[JLRenheos]

QOTD:If you could pick your due date/baby's birthdate, what would it be and why?

Anytime in August and/or all throughout the Summer, because I like the warm weather/Summer.
My family would be able to come in during the Summer more often, and to visit the baby, since a few of them are teachers & have the Summer off. Also, I have very young siblings(I'm over 20yrs. older) and they won't be in school during the Summer. My siblings LOVE babies & it would be fun to see them interact.
It probably won't happen though, because we plan on ttc right after the new year & that's fine w/me to!

[LadyD088]

Awww Kim...see that's how I would be. Making sure my kid always felt special and that the holidays were celebrated differently. What a COOL bday!!! Were you the first born on Jan 1 in your year? Heck anyone born on Jan 1 I think is totally cool - the first day of the year...what a better way to celebrate?

Deb

[KaliLily]

Awww Kim...see that's how I would be. Making sure my kid always felt special and that the holidays were celebrated differently. What a COOL bday!!! Were you the first born on Jan 1 in your year? Heck anyone born on Jan 1 I think is totally cool - the first day of the year...what a better way to celebrate?

Deb

Yeah, my Mom has always been really great. I aspire to be as good a mom as she has been. I was the first baby born in my Dad's company, but that was it. I didn't show up until 5:43pm EST so I missed out on being the first USA baby of the year. My Dad's company did give my folks around $100, though! :) And it is a cool birthday.

Does anyone else get antsy to start their OPKs? I'm on CD12 and with my longer cycles I'm making myself wait until at least CD 15, and it's driving me nuts! I've been eager to test since CD1. :rolleyes:

[Sue]

QOTD:If you could pick your due date/baby's birthdate, what would it be and why?

I'd like to avoid the winter months, mid-November-February. My birthday is 3 weeks after Christmas and it sucked growing up and I really don't like the cold weather. So anywhere from March to October is fine.

[PookiePrincess]

I'm with you, Sue. I was a January baby and my birthday is exactly 3 weeks after Christmas. And I HATE cold weather (so it's a good thing I live in TX). I was always jealous that my brother was born in May and could have pool parties. It's kind of hard to have a pool party in January!

[Sue]

My parties always got snowed out too. It would either snow right before my party or the day of.

[raven077]

QOTD: If you could pick your due date/baby's birth date, what would it be and why?

I would pick mid- to late- October, though anytime in October is fine by me.

Fall is my favorite season. DH and I originally planned to marry in the Fall, but not wanting to wait over a year from our engagement we decided to marry in August - for many other (quirky) reasons. :) We also have no family "events" in October, so my child's birthday would be it. Other than the season, though, I really can't explain it. I've just wanted to have an October baby for as long as I can remember.

Wow. We could be twins. :D Ok, not really.. but you're another NoVA gal with my passion for October and an October baby. Mine and my mom's birthday are both in October, though my mom's is on Halloween and while it was great growing up, I think she kind of resents it now since it's hard for us to be with her on that day. We also got married in October and just love it. Heh. Just the other day, my DH was joking that he was going to be screwed in October's with me, MIL, anniversary and baby. Heh. But I just love the beauty of the season...the colors provide this warmth that just uplifts me. Silly, I guess.

But I have to admit that I'm getting a little nervous being this close to Dec/Jan when we're planning to start trying... :o

[KaliLily]

Wow. We could be twins. :D Ok, not really.. but you're another NoVA gal with my passion for October and an October baby.

But I have to admit that I'm getting a little nervous being this close to Dec/Jan when we're planning to start trying... :o

I just love the Fall here. My first visit to NoVA before the move here in 2004 was Nov. 4-8 and the scenery took my breath away. As much as I dread the idea of being in my third trimester during the worst part of summer, it would be worth it for an October baby. We're starting TTC this month, and as much as I'd love to get PG on the first try I'd be fine waiting until January for it to happen.

It'd be a riot if we were both due in Oct.

Interesting additional similarity, my DH's online user name is usually Raven. :)

[JLRenheos]

My husband & I went to my gf's 30th party last night. Mutual friends of ours had twins(their 2nd/3rd baby) about 17 weeks ago - fraternal b/g. They also have a little girl that turns 2 this coming week. They were such good babies & we never heard a peep out of them. They ARE really adorable & so cute! I held them both. DH looked at them from the sideline & cooed at them. ;) Sigh,....it's enough for now to get my fill.

Kali & raven Speaking of twins, I do have Identical twin sisters that were born in the month of October. ;)
My Mom's Mom had fraternal b/g twins. I have always joked about how my dh & I with our luck, would end up becoming pregnant with twins for our 1st babies/pregnancy. I have a weird feeling about it. I guess I could just blame it on my Grandmother.:rolleyes:

[KaliLily]

I would love to have fraternal b/g twins! DH even mentions how it'd be nice if we had twins so we'd be done after the 1st pregnancy. We're both going on 34, so getting 2 kids at once would be great. No more worries about running out of time!

[PookiePrincess]

My brother and SIL have 17 month old twin girls. My mom jokes ALL THE TIME that DH and I will be the ones to have twin boys. I always tell her to bite her tongue. She thinks it's funny, but I've seen how hard it is to have twins and would rather have one at a time.

And my DH says the same thing about being done if we were to have twins. I told him we'll see.

[kanga1622]

QOTD: If you could pick your due date/baby's birth date, what would it be and why? I have two answers. We started out really wanting a fall baby because there are no events on either side of our family in Sept or Oct. Then I became more realistic and would love a late April-May baby so DH would be home for some of my maternity leave and then home all summer with the baby. Then we could avoid daycare until the baby was 4+ months old. I think it would be great if both DH and I were able to be home for my entire maternity leave. Then we wouldn't have to worry about someone having to get up early for work.

[elissa]

You can remove me from this thread, BFP October 20th for an EDD of June 27, 2007.

Thanks!

[Sue]

Congratulations elissa!

[JFlo]

Congratulations elissa!!! How exciting!

QOTD: If you could pick your due date/baby's birth date, what would it be and why? I guess right now, all we've really discussed is time frames we'd rather NOT have a baby in...I'd rather not be in my 3rd trimester over the summer which in the north east can be quite hot, humid, and uncomfortable. But, I'm sure there are pluses to having a baby born during the summer, like warm weather for taking walks outside, etc, etc.

[LadyD088]

Awww, Elisa - CONGRATS!!!! A Happy and Healthy 9 mos to you!!!

[JLRenheos]

Conratulations elissa!! ;)

PookiePrincess I feel the same exact way about having one child at a time too, but sometimes it doesn't work that way.

[amew]

Congrats, Elissa!

QOTD: If you could pick your due date/baby's birth date, what would it be and why?

I would pick July 25, as that would mean that I am pregnant right now. ;) But honestly, I would be prefer January, February, May, June, July, October, or November. All else being equal, I would rather avoid August and September so they wouldn't be the very oldest or very youngest in their class. December is not ideal because of Christmas. March and April have bad personal associations I would like to avoid. DH and I are both summer babies, and we like having birthdays when we do. I hear people say they don't want to be really pregnant during the summer, but that doesn't worry me too much (despite the fact that I am in Texas where summer is 100+ and humid). It's fun to think about the perfect birthday, but I'd obviously welcome a healthy baby whenever he/she made an appearance.

Update on me: AF is due Wednesday, and every ounce of my body says she's on her way. I tested this am and got the expected BFN. I would be shocked if this was our month. We're fine with that--we would almost be sad to see the sex-fest end so soon, anyway. :)

[Reenie]

Congrats, elissa! :D

[coquelicot]

Congrats, Elissa!

QOTD: If you could pick your due date/baby's birth date, what would it be and why?
I'd like it to be anywhere from late April to early June. That way, the weather has warmed up to the point that I could take a baby outside without having to worry so much about hats and whatnot. Plus I wouldn't be really big while it's so hot and humid here. Also, there aren't many birthdays on either side of our families during that time. DH's sister is in May, and that's it. Finally, our child could have his/her birthday recognized at school, as well as not be too young/old in his/her class. My birthday is in July, and I ALWAYS got the shaft in school. They did the June birthdays before leaving for summer vacation, and did the August ones when they got back. No mention of the July babies. :( By the time I got my driver's license in September of my junior year, the novelty had worn off for everyone else, since I was one of the last people in my class to be old enough to drive.

My second choice would be late October or early November. Nothing too close to the holidays.

We are going to try to avoid having a September baby. DH's oldest sister, father, nephew, BIL, and grandmother ALL have September birthdays. Plus my ILs were married in September. Everything kind of gets lumped together there.

[LadyD088]

Quick post...AF is on her way!! Looks more and more like I will REALLY be part of this thread which is just fine by me!!! Just glad to know either way right now.

[PookiePrincess]

Aw, sorry AF showed Deb. :(

[Reenie]

Sorry, LadyD... you're a good sport for taking it so well.

[filmgirl7]

LadyD - I'm sorry to hear of your visit from AF. Hopefully the next cycle will be the one for you! Good luck!

QOTD: If you could pick your due date/baby's birth date, what would it be and why?

The ideal for me (being a teacher) would probably be the end of May, like May 21st. That would give me four months before I'd have to go back to school. Since we missed that this year (:( ) I've moved into the "as soon as humanly possible" phase. I had a very vivid dream that told me I'd have a due date of November 20th, which means not getting pg until the end of Feb. We have a big wedding to attend on October 14th, so I'd say any day after that (Oct 21?) would be fantastic. I've resigned myself to taking a maternity leave in the middle of the school year, so I don't care. Further, I've always had an affinity for multiples of 7, so I think my baby will be born on the 7th, 14th, 21st or 28th, but we'll have to wait and see. I'd like to avoid the major holidays as well...but if I can't, then whatever.

[LadyD088]

Thanks everyone. Right now, I could careless (hard to believe I would even say that) but I have SO many other things to worry about right. But appreciate the thoughts. Now I just wish the cramping and bloated feeling would GO AWAY!!!

Sorry your threadmistress has been MIA, like I said, I've been a WEE bit busy lately with life. I will update as much as possible in the coming months...as we await 2007!! WOO HOO!!

Deb

[MaybeMamas]

UPDATED TO HERE!!!!

[Julss05]

Congrats Elissa!

LadyD088- Sorry AF is here. I just got over it along with being sick which was no fun. Good luck in December and 2007!

I've been kind of bummed because we were supposed to TTC starting in December. I think if I can get passed next month I'll feel better because then I can look forward to TTC in 2007. It's weird but whenever I have baby dreams I'm either getting pregnant or having a baby in 2007 so I think that is the year! DH is a veteran and got free genetic testing done for possible illnesses he has/will have in the future and could also pass onto our future children. We haven't gotten the results back yet, but it should be interesting. Anyone else getting genetic testing done?

[amew]

AF showed this morning. My first two cycles off BCP were 28 days, and this one was 30 days, so I think we may have missed our window by a couple days by basing things somewhat on my previous cycles. Oh well. I really didn't expect to get pg right away--though it would have been fun.

We are unsure what to do this cycle. I am supposed to be in a wedding a week after a baby conceived this cycle would be due, so part of me thinks we should sit things out for a cycle. But I don't want to start putting off TTC anytime we have something else going one, especially when we have no way of knowing how long it will take. Anyone else planning/not planning around major events?

Anyone else getting genetic testing done?

We did cystic fibrosis testing (well, I did--I'm not a carrier, so DH didn't have to have the test). That is the only genetic test that is recommended based on our family history and ethnic background. We would have done more testing had we fit a different risk profile. I'm all about information.

[LynzeyAHL]

AF showed this morning. My first two cycles off BCP were 28 days, and this one was 30 days, so I think we may have missed our window by a couple days by basing things somewhat on my previous cycles. Oh well. I really didn't expect to get pg right away--though it would have been fun.

We are unsure what to do this cycle. I am supposed to be in a wedding a week after a baby conceived this cycle would be due, so part of me thinks we should sit things out for a cycle. But I don't want to start putting off TTC anytime we have something else going one, especially when we have no way of knowing how long it will take. Anyone else planning/not planning around major events?



We did cystic fibrosis testing (well, I did--I'm not a carrier, so DH didn't have to have the test). That is the only genetic test that is recommended based on our family history and ethnic background. We would have done more testing had we fit a different risk profile. I'm all about information.

Please if you're ready now don't wait. I waited for this I waited for that and now 13 cycles later after waiting for this and that for 4 years I'm still not pregnant. If we would have been trying all this time then certainly I would be pregnant because all the diagnosis and testing would have been done while other stuff is going on. Now I just have to wait and agonize that I lost another whole year trying before I could do anything about it.

[amew]

Please if you're ready now don't wait. I waited for this I waited for that and now 13 cycles later after waiting for this and that for 4 years I'm still not pregnant. If we would have been trying all this time then certainly I would be pregnant because all the diagnosis and testing would have been done while other stuff is going on. Now I just have to wait and agonize that I lost another whole year trying before I could do anything about it.

Thanks, Lynzey. I know you're right, and I really appreciate your perspective. We have been married for 5.5 years, and the whole time we have been waiting until we were completely ready. Now that we are, I don't want to start waiting on other people (namely by planning around all our friends' weddings). I think it is made harder by the fact that I don't think most of our friends would be all that understanding about kid and pregnancy related stuff. I have already had one friend, whose wedding I am in in April, tell me "remember, you won't want to be pregnant at my wedding because we're having really good wine." Like passing up fine wine because I'm pregnant is a trade off I wouldn't take in a heartbeat? Clearly I am not going to pay a bit of attention, as I plan to do everything I can to be pregnant by April. :) I am constantly hearing other people on CC say that they feel like everyone around them has babies. But none of our friends have kids, and they all act like having one would be the most bizarre, inconvenient thing a person could do. And it's not like we're really young our something--our friends are all in the 28-35 range, mostly over 30. What the heck is up with that?

That kind of turned into an unintended vent. Sorry. :o DH and I obviously plan to do what we want and what's right for our family and the encouragement from y'all is certainly helpful on that front.

[raven077]

I just love the Fall here. My first visit to NoVA before the move here in 2004 was Nov. 4-8 and the scenery took my breath away. As much as I dread the idea of being in my third trimester during the worst part of summer, it would be worth it for an October baby. We're starting TTC this month, and as much as I'd love to get PG on the first try I'd be fine waiting until January for it to happen.

It'd be a riot if we were both due in Oct.

Interesting additional similarity, my DH's online user name is usually Raven. :)

Hee hee hee. That would be funny. I'll send happy thoughts your way in January. I'm not sure if we'll start trying in the beginning of December, or the end... I know if we wait till Xmas, I'll just be starting a new cycle, so no baby as a result of Holiday boom boom.. but who knows..

And that is interesting about your DH's screen name too. :) I've had a fascination with ravens since grade school when a friend wrote my name and it ended up looking like "Raven" so it kind of stuck. Another interesting similarity that is that your avatar of Sleeping Beauty is my favorite Disney movie of all time. I have tons of figurines, stamps, collectibles etc. Funny, eh? :p Hee hee.

Wow.. twins though.. I wonder what I'd do if I had a double O and ended up with twins. how crazy...

And Congrats, Elissa! :)

[LynzeyAHL]

Thanks, Lynzey. I know you're right, ... I think it is made harder by the fact that I don't think most of our friends would be all that understanding about kid and pregnancy related stuff.... And it's not like we're really young our something--our friends are all in the 28-35 range, mostly over 30. What the heck is up with that?



I'm in the same age group and everyone around me already has one or more, but definitely we get the same looks of what do you mean you don't have kids yet so really you're not alone.

And wine for not having a kid?!? that's BS lol besides 1/2 a glass of really good wine with your meal wouldn't be the end of the world

[Julss05]

I'm in the same age group and everyone around me already has one or more, but definitely we get the same looks of what do you mean you don't have kids yet so really you're not alone.

Yep that's our circle of friends and family. Just like amew's pressure from friends not to have kids we have gotten the opposite, but decided to wait until we were ready. I don't think anyone should have kids because other people are telling them they should or don't because people say they shouldn't. If you feel ready I would go ahead despite what their feelings are.

I also agree that if you are both ready why wait?! I wouldn't wait for a wedding alone. It might not happen right away. We'd be trying next month but with DH losing his job and our health insurance along with it we are waiting until he gets another job and we get re-enrolled in insurance before TTC but not waiting much after that. I'm tired of waiting! I feel like early 30's is it, now or never kind of thing.

[LynzeyAHL]

that is getting on my last nerve people saying "oh well you're young you've got time." Actually no I'm 29 I wanted to be done having kids by 30 not starting so why don't you have a nice mug of STFU. :mad: The in-laws are the worst offenders right now that's why we're going to may family this year for christmas.

[Julss05]

I'm 29 I wanted to be done having kids by 30 not starting
Same here! I'm determined to get things in order to TTC by the time I turn 30 in June (if not earlier) which will also be our 5th anniversary. I figure it might take up to a year to get pregnant and then add 9 months to that I'd be 31 or 32 before the first comes along and we'd like two. Now adding time getting pregnant and having another one that would put me at 35 or 36 waiting a little bit after the first. I guess I shouldn't be concerned with "when" as much as "eventually" verses not at all, but I understand the waiting is still very difficult.

[KaliLily]

that is getting on my last nerve people saying "oh well you're young you've got time."

I've got the opposite problem. I get pressure to hurry up and have kids because I'm closing in on my mid-30s (I'll be 34 in January). DH and I have been married for 9 years, so we get a lot of "You still don't have kids?!" looks. It's frustrating because it makes me feel rushed and then I start to panic.

A few years ago, DH talked to his dad about laying off the baby talk and he has for the most part. We still get comments from time to time about giving him a grandchild, but I just try to brush them off.

By the way, can you change my TTC start date to Spring 2007? DH and I agreed this weekend to postpone TTC until I start my new job, which should be in the early Spring provided my security clearance goes through timely.

[WestieMomma]

I need to get caught up in here!

QOTD: How long do you plan to TTC "on your own" before consulting a doctor?
I think it may take us a while anyways due to DH traveling so much for work..we really only have the weekends to BD :( But if it's longer than 8-12 months I will definitely be seeing my ob/gyn.


QOTD: If you could pick your due date/baby's birth date, what would it be and why?
Spring or early summer for sure. Count me as another TX girl who doesn't care to be big and pg during the summer here. But I will take what I get as a due date. I also would not want a Christmas baby. My b'day is Dec. 22nd and I have always hated it.

[Sue]

KaliLily, I'm in the same boat - sort of :) I'll be 34 in January and DH and I have been together 9 years, married for 4. Everyone around us has had kids and us and my DH's sister are the only 2 in the family without. She has serious baby envy, to the point of getting angry if she finds out someone she knows is pregnant. But then again she has medical issues that she refused to see the doctor about for months :rolleyes: but that's a whole saga in itself!

We haven't had too much pressure from the "outside", we weren't planning on having kids at all for a long time. I guess I'm putting more pressure on myself right now, because of my age. But not to the point where I am getting depressed or frustrated or anything like that because of it. I know we need to wait until mid 2007 and I'm OK with that.

[JLRenheos]

Julss05my DH is also in job transition. My dh was demoted because he was last to hire on as a manager, but he still has his current job. We should know by the end of December for sure. *If* he gets the job, then we have to wait & see if there is a probationary period for health ins. w/the company. If there is, then that's the only reason to hold us back from ttc in Jan. '07. I would be fine waiting for that reason.
Good luck to your husband on finding a job & with great health ins. benefits. I know it can be stressful.

QOTD If you celebrate Thanksgiving, what are your plans & who are you celebrating it with? Are you traveling over the Holiday?

We will be having our Thanksgiving Dinner with my Bro/SIL at their house, along with my Mom/S-Dad and 3 sisters(they are also traveling). There will be 9 of us total. We'll probably go shopping the day after for special sales/discounts & just visit with family & do a little bit of sight seeing thereafter.
My husband & I are leaving for N. Carolina on Wednesday, on one of the busiest travel days of the year. We have a 10 hr. drive. blah. We will be heading out on Sunday between 2-4 A.M., so we can be home at a decent hour on Sunday, by mid-afternoon. I'm looking forward to just getting away & being w/family, having a nice dinner & watching football!
My SIL is 20 wks. pregnant w/their 1st, so it'll be interesing to see what she looks like, before the baby is born. BTW, I *think* they're having a boy! They want a boy, so I'm excited for them.

Only 2 more 1/2 days of work.

[LadyD088]

QOTD If you celebrate Thanksgiving, what are your plans & who are you celebrating it with? Are you traveling over the Holiday?

Tday is at my house. Its just my mom, her dog, Dh and me. Our BF will show up after he has his traditional dinner. This is going to be a sad Tday for me. I am moving my mom to CO that weekend - we leave Saturday morning - driving. So yeah, I'm kind of traveling but not for the Holiday reason. I will fly back on Tuesday night.

MIL and BIL (and his GF) were invited to my Tday celebrations but we have undone the invite. (That's what I've been dealing with the past few days and why I haven't been around much). My mom was staying with MIL for the past 2 months with her dog. Last week (Wed PM) she called my DH and said my mom had to be out by Tday!!! So I told my mom on Friday and she's been out since.

I would SO take my mom in but our landlord doesn't take dogs and my mom can't be separated from the dog - and honestly, I wouldn't allow it.

So I am having my last holiday with my mom (at least for awhile). On Friday, we are going to storage to tear thru that and find all her clothes (due to it being CO and being cold, she'll need them). Then we take off EARLY Sat morning for CO!!

Hope you all have a WONDERFUL Holiday!!!!

Deb

[rubyslippers]

We're lucky enough to live close to both families so we'll be seeing eveyone on Thanksgiving. We're doing breakfast and the high school football game with my family and then dinner with Kurt's family. My family is also gathering Saturday for turkey dinner.

[coquelicot]

QOTD If you celebrate Thanksgiving, what are your plans & who are you celebrating it with? Are you traveling over the Holiday?
We are traveling to DH's hometown (about 90 minutes away) to spend Thanksgiving with his parents, two of his sisters, and their families. (Sister #3 lives too far away to make it home for Thanksgiving, but will be there for Christmas.) There will be 9-10 people at Thanksgiving dinner.

[heather1029]

Joining!! I'm crazy excited about 2007 being right around the corner!! Yay!

CC Name: heather1029
Me: Heather, 23
DH: Jeff, 23 (we'll both be 24 when TTC)
Married: 10/29/05
TTC start date: August/September 2007
Any other children: Nope. Not even animals!
Misc Info: I went off BCP in early September and am now charting to avoid.

The biggest things on our checklist before TTC include a big trip to Italy, buying a home and buying a new 4-door car. I plan to be a SAHM and do freelance writing. We'd love to have four or five kids, and we're going to try the Shettle's method to get a boy baby first.

[KaliLily]

QOTD If you celebrate Thanksgiving, what are your plans & who are you celebrating it with? Are you traveling over the Holiday?

DH and I are driving to Indiana to celebrate Thanksgiving with his family (Mom, Dad, Sister, BIL, niece and nephew). We leave tomorrow, totting the free turkey I earned at our grocery store along for the 10-ish hour drive. I'm so not looking forward to the traffic!! My family is in Washington (state) so I won't be seeing them this year. :( Honestly, I'm not in the mood for Thanksgiving, which is why we decided to go to Indiana. I figured being around my niece and nephew would brighten up my spirit and it's some quality time with DH in the car (we're great road trip buddies), plus I don't have to be making dinner by myself for only 2.

Welcome, Kim/Heather1029. My DH is also named Joe, but we are 10 yrs older than both of you. :D

[coquelicot]

we're going to try the Shettle's method to get a boy baby first.
Forgive my ignorance, but what's the Shettle's method?

[heather1029]

Welcome, Kim/Heather1029. My DH is also named Joe, but we are 10 yrs older than both of you. :D

Ooops!! Haha, your info must have been the one I copied and pasted for the subject headings...:D

[heather1029]

Forgive my ignorance, but what's the Shettle's method?

It's gender selection by intercourse timing. I don't think it's an exact science, but it's something we're willing to try!

Here's a link on Fertility Friend that explains it:

http://www.fertilityfriend.com/Faqs/Gender-Selection-The-Shettles-Method.html

[KaliLily]

Ooops!! Haha, your info must have been the one I copied and pasted for the subject headings...:D

LOL! Thanks for making us a decade younger! ;)

[PookiePrincess]

QOTD If you celebrate Thanksgiving, what are your plans & who are you celebrating it with? Are you traveling over the Holiday?

Thursday morning we are driving down to the beach to have T-giving lunch with my ILs at the family beach house. Then we will come back later that afternoon and go to my parents. We are set to eat there at 7pm. That way, my brother and SIL can see her parents and we can visit my DH's parents. Everyone is close enough where we can visit them all and no one gets left out. :)


We have a book about the Shettles method. The first time around we're just going to try for whatever we can get and then the 2nd time around we might take our time and try Shettles. I think it's fascinating, even though it's not fullproof.

[Julss05]

Thanksgiving Plans...
We are going to visit DH's family in upstate New York. I nicknamed the town Mayberry because that is what it reminds me of:). It's actually supposed to be sunny which is great compared to the weather we are getting. His family goes all out for the holidays, I'm really looking forward to it. We'll also get to see our nephew for the first time that was born in June.

Someone mentioned going to N.C. Wed., officially North Carolina and Virginia have a coastal storm that is supposed to last into Thursday. Currently we have a flood warning (I'm about an hour from N.C. border) with rain and winds between 20-40 mph. Just wanted to let you know. Streets aren't bad, found the wind to be worse and had to slow down when driving during the gusts.

KaliLily
What part of Indiana? I have family there. I know the drive is a killer, it's about 14 hrs. from where I live so I don't visit often.

heather1029 Welcome to the group!

[KaliLily]

KaliLily
What part of Indiana? I have family there. I know the drive is a killer, it's about 14 hrs. from where I live so I don't visit often.

Mishawaka. It's a "suburb" of South Bend (aka Home of Notre Dame)

[LynzeyAHL]

anyone dying to just get the holidays over so we can get on with the 07 baby race? LOL

I'm fine and well with all the holiday chatter but dang it BDing into 07 seems so much more fun than the hoopla with holidays and spending time with the in-laws right?!? is that doing the time before you can commit your 'crime'? :o

[raven077]

Welcome, Heather! :)

QOTD: Thanksgiving.

Well, for the first year in the 15 that I've known DH, the 8 since we've been dating and the first since we've been married, I'll be with his family. And my mom's not happy. She's been told not to guilt trip me, but it's hard since I'm her baby and the only girl.:p So I'm kind of battling that.

Both our parents are in the area but mine go down to Richmond to my brother and SIL's house for the day so we can't do the split like we can on Christmas. So I think we'll be at his grandparents in DC with his parents. Both his brother and sister won't be there...oh well...so much for the entire family. :rolleyes:

[Julss05]

KaliLily- I know where that is, up north a bit from where I grew up.

Link for road conditions in N.C.
http://apps.dot.state.nc.us/tims/

anyone dying to just get the holidays over so we can get on with the 07 baby race?
Yes! Ringing in the new year will definitely be a joyess one!:)

[Reenie]

QOTD: Thanksgiving.

We are celebrating with MILs family (from out of town) tomorrow and with FILs family (also came up from OOT) on Friday. :) Very excited. But I am also a little sad because I will miss my Grams. I will be interested to see just how many times I get asked about our family status in the next two days. I think I'll keep track and report back. ;)

Happy Thanksgiving!

[angelcookie2002]

Welcome Heather! We are also planning to use shettles, but to TTC a girl first. It sounds like we will be trying around the same time too!

[raven077]

Oh yeah, Shettles... Seems like an interesting idea. I really want a boy first (I liked having two older brothers) but I think we'll just see what happens the first time, then maybe try the Shettles method for the second.

Though my back has been killing me SO much lately, especially this morning and yesterday after standing in the kitchen getting stuff ready that I question my sanity for even wanting to be pregnant once let alone twice. It's really quite scary when you have some sort of debilitating pain that you know will only get worse once pregnant, but yet, you know nothing is really helping it to go away so why wait anymore...just deal with whatever happens, whether it gets worse or stays the same. *sigh* Sorry. Didn't mean to be a downer... :o

So I'll lighten it back up: Happy Thanksgiving everyone! :)

[Reenie]

Shettles Eh, I kind of agree with raven. Neither of us really cares about the order, but we do think that it would be fun to have at least one boy and at least one girl, so maybe we'll just see how easy/difficult it is to get pg the first time, and then if it's not too problematic, try Shettles the second time around.

[amew]

QOTD: Thanksgiving
We had Thanksgiving at our house for the first time. My mom and step-dad, my younger brother, and three friends joined us. It was fun to have everyone here. My mom and I spent yesterday shopping and decorating the house for Christmas, and she and my step-dad just left to head home (they live about 6 hours away).

Shettles: We're kind of tempted, as we would both love a girl first. But BDing several days before O, as Shettles recommends for a girl, decreases overall odds of conception, and having a baby period is far more important to us than having a baby of a particular gender. So we will probably just take luck of the draw, at least the first time around. If we have a boy first, we might try Shettles the second time around.

[angelcookie2002]

Shettles: I have a book that goes over all the different things you can do to sway things a bit. We probably will do a few things, but not very strictly, to sway towards girl. If we end up with a boy we would be just as happy. If we could chose we would love to have a girl first, so why not sway a little.

[Reenie]

Well, I actually only got asked about TTC once over Thanksgiving. It was pretty nice. I think people are sort of aware that we're tired of being asked.

QOTD: Do you hope to use a midwife, an OB, or a family practictioner?

I kind of like the idea of a midwife, but my DH doesn't at all, so it'll be OB or family practitioner for us. I just want someone that I like, really.

[rubyslippers]

We're not worried about sex at all. We'll take what we get. I've got 3 sisters and he's got two brothers, so obviously both sets of parents would like what they haven't got! :) Definately an OB for me as far as practitioners go.

[PookiePrincess]

We didn't get asked the baby question, but it was talked about.

QOTD: Do you hope to use a midwife, an OB, or a family practictioner?
I'll use an OB. I'll stay with my current Gyn/OB throughout a pregnancy. I really like her...she's the only gyn I've ever been to. She's downtown in the medical center (which is about 30 minutes away), but it's worth the drive. I tell my DH that and he just rolls his eyes. I just have to keep telling him that I really like her as my dr.

[Sue]

Thanksgiving was uneventful, except for the usual whining from my SIL about how she isn't pregnant yet :rolleyes:

QOTD: Do you hope to use a midwife, an OB, or a family practictioner?

I plan on using a midwife. I am not too fond of my current OB/GYN and I have only been to her twice. There is a midwife/OB practice that is highly recommended in my area and one particular MW I'd like to see. After the new year, I'm going to make an appointment to see her.

[LeslieandPaul]

QOTD: Do you hope to use a midwife, an OB, or a family practictioner?

I will be using my GP. I've been seeing him for about 12 years, and he does a lot of deliveries. His office (and the hospital he works out of) are about 30 minutes away, but it would be worth the drive to have a doctor I know and trust do the delivery (and the hospital has a really nice maternity ward).

[JLRenheos]

Julss05 -

We were the ones that drove down to N. Carolina for Thanksgiving. We just got in 1 hr. ago from a 9 hr. drive. My Mom & her family left Tuesday late afternoon and drove right into it. My husband & I left Wed. late afternoon and we didn't hit any rain until we got into N. Carolina, which wasn't hardly anything. The drive went well. I too, was also concerned about the weather. Thanks for the heads up!

KaliLily and Julss05 -

I have family that live in Indiana as well, right outside Bloomington(near IU) & in Indianapolis-(step family). My SILs family is from Elkhart.
A little over 4 yrs. ago, my husband & I drove up to Mishawaka for one of his friend's wedding. It was a long & boring drive. All country roads. They rented out the Civic Center for the entire weekend for their wedding. They had around 500+ guests.

Shettles Method -
we're not planning on trying this.


We just got in from our 9 hr. drive from N. Carolina. My Brother & SIL(who's 5 1/2 mos. along) cooked the entire Thanksgiving dinner for 9 of us. Everything went well.

She's just now starting to get a little baby bump. They shared their ultrasound pics. and video clips with us. They're not finding out the sex. I/we think they're having a boy.
Next time we'll go back down, is to visit the baby, come next Spring. Hopefully, I'll be pregnant by then!
I have to admit, that it was a little hard seeing her pregnant & with my Mom taking a ton of baby stuff down to them. Soon, it'll be my turn. Soon.

[Julss05]

JLRenheos-Glad the weather wasn't too bad for you.

Shettles Method-I might try it although I don't care whether we have a girl or boy first. Like amew I think I'd be more inclined to try it for the second.

Having an OB would be good enough for me as long as they know what they're doing and seem to care and listen well.

Our thanksgiving went well. The weather was surprisenly nice and you could actually see stars in the night sky which I miss along with quiteness. We babysat our 5-month-old nephew who is such a cutie but a handful. It really made me realize what we are getting ourselves into! I loved spending time with him but it was nice to be able to hand him back at the end of the day. Our SIL and BIL are having marital problems and not sure if they will stay together which is sad for our nephew. Hope they can work things out. MIL is rather critical of everything they do with the baby which doesn't help. It is no surprise considering how she acted when we got married. I worry she'll act the same way when we have kids. Oh and we rented a Buick Rendezvous. It was spacious, smooth riding (great for long trips), and baby friendly, we tested it out with the nephew:). It had a few neat features like letting you know when a passenger takes off their seatbelt and ac/heat/radio controls for the backseat. I'm not sure if I'd buy one though, it felt too "minivanish" for me when driving and I'm not quite ready for that! I think I'd prefer a wagon or small to midsize SUV. I'd recommend it to anyone needing up to 7 seats if they don't care that it does drive and look like a minivan. We were asked by a lot of family when we are having kids but luckily I could use the reason that we need to get some health insurance before we do that and they seemed to understand. Most of them didn't know we had planned to TTC in December. I don't plan to say anything until we have a confirmed +. Well anyway that was our thanksgiving besides eating way too much! I need to lose some weight for sure.

[amew]

Glad to hear that everyone had a nice Thanksgiving. At one point it occurred to me that I could have a little one or be pregnant by next Thanksgiving--crazy!

QOTD: I just saw a new OB-gyn for my last annual exam/preconception visit. I really liked her, so I will probably continue to see her throughout my pregnancy. I believe there are three other OBs in her practice, and I don't think there are any midwives. So it looks like its an OB for me.

[raven077]

QOTD: Do you hope to use a midwife, an OB, or a family practictioner?

Just talking about this with a friend tonite, actually.. I was starting to think that I might be interested in a midwife.. but DH is not down with that. He wants me to be close to any hospital help that I might need. But I don't know.. I haven't really read up on this yet. I guess I should start if we're going to start in a month!

[kanga1622]

QoTD-I'd love to use a midwife but the closest one is about 2 hours away. So instead we'll be using my family prac (or DH's if necessary) at the hospital just a few blocks from our home. I'm hoping though to labor at home for as long as I can stand it so we don't have to be in the hospital as long.

[Amuse Bouche]

I'll jump in, too, though I'm hoping we won't be TTCing in 2007! I am hoping I'll be a mama in 2007.

CC Name: Amuse Bouches
Me: AB, 28
DH: DH, 27
Married: 3/1/03
TTC start date: 11/06
Any other children: Nope.
Miscellaneous Info:

As for the QOTD, I think we're going with an OB. I like the idea of a MW, but there aren't many on my insurance. Add to that the fact that I'm a worrywart, and my OB delivers at one of the best hospitals in the area that has a great NICU, and I think ultimately I feel more comfortable with an OB.

[heather1029]

QOTD: I think we'll be going with an OB, but I'd also like to have a doula as a coach. I have a feeling we'll be doing the birth with as few interventions as possible...except I know I will want an epidural. After seeing the kind of pain my mother went through (she had five kids) and hearing her side of it, an epidural seems like the way to go unless you are one of those people who can easily handle pain.

[lil_geek]

Since I am totally obsessed with babies, baby stuff and all but NOT TTC... I guess this is where I belong!!

CC Name: lil_geek
Me: Tara, 27
DH: Terry, 26
Married: 05/13/06
TTC start date: May2007
Any other children: Nope. (1 dog and 20 cows that demand a lot of attention!)
Misc Info: I went off BCP in early September and am now charting to avoid. Was dx'ed with PCOS as a teen but haven't seen any signs/symptoms since being off the pill

We moved into an old farmhouse in the spring and have spent the summer/fall doing MAJOR renovations. Now that it is slowing down, we are planning our 1 year anniversary trip (to Italy) and then will be TTC (okay, we will likley start TTCing IN Italy if the timing is right!!)

[lil_geek]

QOTD - I am HOPING for a midwife. Although in our family medical practice there is a GP that delivers... SIL was with her and liked her. But I wasn't 100% sold on some things I heard (like she walked in and the hopsital told her if you are going to have an epidural, you may as well get it now and be done - however the line up was long and she ended up delivering before it was her turn!)

In Ontario MW are covered by OHIP, and when you deliver in a hospital you can be under the midwifes care up until/if you want any more interventions then they can offer. And since you deliver with who is on call anyway, not your specific DR... I figure it's worth it for the pre/post care.

[KaliLily]

I still have some catching up to do on the posts since Wednesday, but thought I'd at least post my reply to the QOTD.

QOTD: Do you hope to use a midwife, an OB, or a family practictioner? I'll definitely use an OB. I really like my ob/gyn, and DH is fine with his office/the hospital being about 40 minutes from our house. I just liked the birthing center at the hospital and the doctor came highly recommended from my chiro's receptionist's mother. :)

Thanksgiving in Indiana was great. I wasn't in the holiday spirit at all before we went, but I had such a wonderful time with my niece and nephew that I came home happy and relaxed. Now I'm chomping at the bit to get my Christmas decorating done so I can start baking. And thanks to my SIL dragging me out in the wee hours of Black Friday, I'm almost done with my Christmas shopping!

The only down side of the trip was FIL's expression when I confirmed we are spening this Christmas at home. And he made a veiled comment about me having kids, which got me down a little. I just tried to brush it all off and remember it just means he cares. I try not to bring the subject of kids up at all around him or any of DH's friends. These days if asked about having kids, my answer is "Time will tell."

[MaybeMamas]

UPDATED TO HERE!!!

[LadyD088]

QOTD: Do you hope to use a midwife, an OB, or a family practictioner?
*I am sure we'll go pretty traditional (ob). Currently the hospital is only 10 minutes away in traffic. I have yet to pick an OB but figure that's the way we'll go.
*******************************************
Can you all believe that 2007 is so near? Crazy!!! Looking forward to 2007 being a better year than 2006.
*******************************************
Holiday was nice. Food turned out really well. Drive to CO with my mom and her dog was fine (just really long). Do miss her terribly though and trying not to dwell on that for now.

Hope you all are doing well. BIG Welcome to the NEWBIES!!!!

Deb

[KaliLily]

QOTD: Is there anything you want to do before you're too far along to do it?

I want to go to Ireland with my DH to celebrate our 10th Annivesary (August 2007). I realized the other day that since we are going to wait until Spring to TTC, there should be nothing to interfere with our plans. At most I'd be 4 mos along, and we could probably move the trip up to early summer if necessary. Now I don't feel so bad about having to postpone TTC (yet again).

[Sue]

QOTD: Is there anything you want to do before you're too far along to do it?

We would also like to take a vacation for our 5 year in August.. We haven't been on a real vacation since our honeymoon. It's so hard with 3 dogs and 3 cats, it would cost just as much as the trip to board them all - and I'd rather not do that anyway. Hopefully my SIL will stay and watch everyone, like she has done for weekend trips. Although she is TTC as well and if she's pregnant, that plan might need to change.
We plan on starting in the summer, so it shouldn't impact our plans too much.

[Julss05]

QOTD: Is there anything you want to do before you're too far along to do it?
Finish up projects around the house, visit family out of state, go on one more spa getaway with just the girls (before TTC), go camping with DH and friends, enjoy spending time with DH alone, and if we have the time/money go to Italy to visit friends that live there and see the sights.

[LeslieandPaul]

QOTD: Is there anything you want to do before you're too far along to do it?
DH and I are planning on taking a trip for his 30th birthday next fall so we would want to do that. I also want to do a couple weekend getaways (Whistler, Vegas, maybe Seattle), and if we can fit it in, a few days in NYC. I also want to go to the movies lots.

[amew]

QOTD: Is there anything you want to do before you're too far along to do it?

We would like to take a babymoon when I'm a few months along, though we're not sure where. Probably somewhere in the US or Caribbean, as I don't want to stray too far while pg. Hawaii is a top contender. We went to Greece, Croatia, and Italy for our fifth anniversary last August with the idea that it would probably be our last big, international trip pre-baby. We also have out-of-town weddings in April, June, and September that I would really like to be able to attend if possible (April and June will obviously be fine, barring complications in early pregancy or something, but September could be tricky if we conceive this month or next.

[WestieMomma]

QOTD If you celebrate Thanksgiving, what are your plans & who are you celebrating it with? Are you traveling over the Holiday?
I'm late here as usual but we went to my parent's house in Boulder, CO along w/my parent's, sister, brother and 5 yr old nephew. It is a second home for them and we had not seen it yet. Loved Boulder, the town, the shopping, the resturants, everything. On Thanksgiving Day we drove up to Estes Park and had dinner at the Stanley Hotel and it was a lot of fun.


Traditional OB
We will definitely be going this route, I love my doctor-she is truly awesome! The hospital that has a great rep is about a 30 min drive from the house but I don't mind that. Many friends have had the babies there and have been very pleased with everything.


Things we want to do before baby
Definitely another big trip or a few small ones. We are thinking about going to Ireland in May for DH's 30th b'day and our 5 yr anniversiary. I would love to do a few days in Mexico at an all-inclusive but we went to Maui this past May and DH isn't too keen on another beach vacation this year. Some friends are talking aout doing a girl's trip so maybe I can get my beach fix then hopefully before I am pg!

[JLRenheos]

Things we want to do before baby
Take a cruise together! We've both never been on one. Probably do some inside home improvements. I'd like to visit the Philippines, but I doubt it'll happen.

[PookiePrincess]

QOTD: Is there anything you want to do before you're too far along to do it?
Nothing, other than some traveling if we can afford it. I'd like to go to D.C. for a few days and we can likely do that relatively cheaply if we can sweet talk my uncle into letting us stay in his condo while we're there. We're also planning a beach trip with my mom's side of the family next summer.

[rubyslippers]

QOTD: Is there anything you want to do before you're too far along to do it?

We'd like to finish up some home improvement projects to make room for a nursery in our current spare room.

[lil_geek]

QOTD: Is there anything you want to do before you're too far along to do it?

We plan on taking our 1 year anniversary trip before we TTC (Italy in May 2007) so that is our big 'before'. Once we are PG... not likley.... unless it takes us a long time to TTC, then we will likley throw a cruise in there in winter 2008 (OMG.... if it takes that long I will need SOMETHING!)

We also will start buildign our upstairs bathroom (as I put it) - THE DAY that second line shows up! No trecking up and down a flight of stairs to pee 3 times a night when I am PG!

[Reenie]

QOTD: Is there anything you want to do before you're too far along to do it?
Yeah, I want to finish my M.Ed., and then I want to do a few home improvement projects (obviously, the nursery would be included in that). We aren't planning to start until July, and my projected graduation date is December 2007, so hopefully I'll be pregnant then (but only a few months along). And our home improvement projects are all happening this summer (other than the nursery, obviously), so that will actually be before TTC or at the very beginning of it.

[Amuse Bouche]

QOTD: Is there anything you want to do before you're too far along to do it?


We want to move. We're currently in a 1BR apartment, and would like to be in a 2BR place, though we don't have any current plans to buy a house right now. Travel would be nice, but I don't anticipate we'll stop traveling altogether when we do have child(ren). We took a nice romantic trip to Hawaii this summer, which was a nice prekid thing to do.

[JLRenheos]

?What baby related books are you ladies currently reading or would recommend? Maybe something like pre-baby and/or during pregnancy for me to read. I'd like to go to the bookstore sometime soon & just wanted to look into buying a book or two for now.

I have another question.
My SIL is due with her 1st baby the first week of April. They're in N. Carolina & we're in Ohio. They are not coming up for Christmas this year. She is around 23 wks. pregnant currently.
I would like to host a baby shower or of the like, but don't know when to hold it.
My SIL, did however, mention that her Mom would be flying her home sometime eary next year to have a baby shower(SIL's side/family) for her. Her family lives about 4-5 hrs. away from us in Indiana. I personally, don't know how she's going to transport whatever she gets at her baby shower on the way back, esp; with any big items. My Brother & SIL are both teachers at the same school & they won't come back here until June. SIL will be on maternity leave, but my brother will still be teaching & in school. The baby will be 2 mos. old then.
Should I plan for something for when they come to visit in June w/the baby? I'm hoping to also be pregnant by then. What kind of theme would I have, if I had one. Maybe a Summer family get together or meet & greet? I'm not sure. It wouldn't be your typical baby shower. I'd like to host one for our side of the family.
Suggestions??

[lil_geek]

JLRenheos - I am hosting a 'Meet the Baby' shower for my SIL this Sunday. She had the baby October 24th. However, we are in the middle of MAJOR renovations , and SIL doesn't see the neighbours and extended family much, we decided doing it after the babe was here would make sense. After all, everyone loves to see little babies!

As for transporting gifts.. not sure, but maybe suggest to guests that gift cards/online purchases shipped directly to them would be easiest. (Similar to what a lot of people do when they get married aways from where they live)

[JFlo]

Gosh! I haven't been here in so long! I must get better at visiting :) Backing up a bit to answer some QOTDs:

If you celebrate Thanksgiving, what are your plans & who are you celebrating it with? Are you traveling over the Holiday?
We travelled to visit my parents and family in NJ. It's about a 2 hour drive, so not too bad. DH's family is in upstate NY, so we alternate holidays each year. We'll be w/ DH's family at Christmas and then next year, we switch.

Do you hope to use a midwife, an OB, or a family practictioner?
We will be using my OB/GYN. The 3 hospitals associated with the practice are some of the best in our area, and they are all about equidistant from our house (15-20 minutes). So, the difficult decision for us will be which hospital to choose.

Is there anything you want to do before you're too far along to do it?
We decided a few years ago that we wanted to go to Hawaii before we have a baby. So, in anticipation of TTC early in 2007, we booked a trip to Maui and Kauai for mid-May! Depending on how it goes, we could either be a few months along on our trip, or using it as a TTC trip! We also would like to redo our kitchen (planning in progress, will be starting in January) and put closet systems in our bedroom closets.

[KaliLily]

I need some courage. I had blood drawn 2 - 1/2 weeks ago for a CD21 progesterone level test. (This was the check to see if I'm O'ing on my own.) I have yet to get a call about the results from my ob/gyn; however, it's CD37 and AF hasn't arrived. It now appears unlikely I O'd before the blood was drawn. :( There is a chance I O'd after CD 21 (I have major AF symptoms), but I don't think there is a way to confirm it now.

I need to call the doc's office to check on the results, but since I pretty much know the answer I've been procrastinating. I had these tests done last Spring during a trial run on Clomid and everything was positive. Then I had 5 months of 32-34 day cycles, until my last cycle which was over 40 days. :( Until now I had really started hoping I could TTC "on my own." I can't seem to shake the desire to be able to do this without medical intervention - I just want to feel normal. It drives me batty that on the cycle we're testing for a "natural" O, my body lets me down. All my body ever does is let me down.

Can someone give me the encouragement to call the doc's office?

TIA

[bethnjim]

Do you hope to use a midwife, an OB, or a family practictioner?
We will be using an OB/GYN, probably the same one my sister goes to. I had one, but she is about an hour away and I don't want to travel that kind of distance. I will hopefully go to my sister's OB/GYN sometime soon and then move forward with her.

Is there anything you want to do before you're too far along to do it?
Yes, I think of things constantly. We wanted to redo our bathroom and they are here today finishing up that. We also wanted to travel a bit more so we have a cruise planned for March...leaving from San Juan and going to six different stops. We also wanted to go to Alaska, but who knows if that will happen?! My hubby wants to do the land tour and cruise in Alaska, but we went to Banff for our honeymoon so I think I would be OKAY not doing Alaska. I threw around the idea of the Greek Isles, but it isn't a real need. However, everytime I think of having a baby, I freak out a bit.

Does anyone else freak out?? Am I alone with feeling panicky...wondering how things will change, wondering about money, wondering about your relationship with your husband, worried about your freedom and having to take care of another human being?? YIKES!! The whole idea makes me want to wait, but then I see a photo of a baby and think....AWWWWWWWW and my husband really wants to get started!!

[PookiePrincess]

bethnjim, I completely understand. I have the baby bug so bad, but I still worry. I'm a big planner and I worry that we should wait longer, even though I'm tired of waiting. I had a scare early this week and thought I might be pg and buying my first pg test scared the crap out of me! I keep thinking what am I getting myself into and are we really ready? But then I think, are we EVER going to be really ready? I think we're ready emotionally, but we still have a chunk of debt that will take years for us to pay off. I get so tired of being the practical one about everything. I want to be one of those people who just does what they want to do without too much thought.

[Julss05]

KaliLily Get it over with like ripping off a bandaid;). Sorry you're having problems with your cycles. I don't blame you for not wanting to seek medical help.

bethnjim I freak out sometimes about everything you mentioned, but I still want a baby:D. I'm sure I'll ask myself, "What the hec did we do:eek:," but I have a overwhelming feeling that having children in our lives will overcome the freaked out feelings.

This may be a bad example, when we adopted our two kittens we were all excited and scared because neither of us had two before but we decided to take them home (last freaked out moment). They were so cute when they were little but it was an adjustment for all of us. At some point I thought we had made a huge mistake because in the beginning they both had literbox problems and one of them was very dependent whining whenever she wasn't in the same room as us usually in the middle of the night. Over the last year everything has worked itself out, and we can't imagine our lives without them! They can be annoying, like when one drops all my jewelry on the floor and then pushes it under the dresser so I can find it:rolleyes:, but they also do many funny and loving things that outweight the bad stuff. I can see having kids being somewhat like that but much more intense.

[lil_geek]

Does anyone else freak out?? Am I alone with feeling panicky...wondering how things will change, wondering about money, wondering about your relationship with your husband, worried about your freedom and having to take care of another human being?? YIKES!! The whole idea makes me want to wait, but then I see a photo of a baby and think....AWWWWWWWW and my husband really wants to get started!!

ALL THE TIME... I think because I am pretty much the last of my friends to NOT have kids. I see how much they have changed and how their priorities have changed and wonder what it will be like to leave work and know I have to get home... as opposed to stopping and doing this and that.

THEN I see a baby... SIL yesterday was telling me that you just don't know how you can love something SO much that you have only known such a short time. And I wonder how the heck will I wait the 6 or so months before we try.. or longer until we get pg!

I teased DH yesterday... he is firm that I am the one who wants to do Italy before kids (but honestly he's not 100% ready yet so I think he is happy about that....I sent him an email with the best times to travel in Italy (spring and fall) and he writes back

"So, what season?"

me - "Spring or fall.... but of course I would prefer spring because of your ultimatums! ;)"

him - " ha ha"

Me - "Maybe we should just go in January... the weather won't be as nice, but the price will be better"

:) I guess I just need to learn I can't have everything RIGHT NOW like I want!

[Sue]

It comes and goes in waves. Sometimes the desire is so overwhelming and other times it's nonexistent. We are pretty much the last of our friends to have kids, some have had kids for a few years now, so we're used to the changes from our friends :) We also have 3 dogs, so we are very used to not taking vacations or coming and going as we please.

We've decided to wait until summer to start, we want to move and get settled first, also take a much needed vacation. I also do not want a holiday baby, so that pushes it out past March and I would prefer not to have a winter baby.

Does anyone else freak out?? Am I alone with feeling panicky...wondering how things will change, wondering about money, wondering about your relationship with your husband, worried about your freedom and having to take care of another human being?? YIKES!! The whole idea makes me want to wait, but then I see a photo of a baby and think....AWWWWWWWW and my husband really wants to get started!!

So to summarize... YES to all of the above :)

[Sue]

What baby related books are you ladies currently reading or would recommend?

All I have read is TCOYF because I started charting earlier in the year. I've taken a look in B&N for books, but don't know what to get :)

[LadyD088]

QOTD: Is there anything you want to do before you're too far along to do it?

I guess the only thing I would like to do is clean the house so that its in perfect condition. All boxes unpacked, everything has its place. That sort of thing. I've been lazy and not up to finishing off the moving process. We still have about 10 boxes that need unpacking. That kind of stuff that NEEDS a place but you don't HAVE a place for it. Other than that, I think that's it.

Kim - Have you called the Doc's yet? I know its hard, having to wait to long and now you might not have caught the O for the test. But the sooner you know, the quicker you can get the help that you need. Sending you tons of strength to pick up that phone and call. Let us know the results. You are being thought of.

Deb

[KaliLily]

Deb - I did finally call the doctor's office. The doc was out for 1 1/2 weeks over Thanksgiving, which I suspected was the reason for the delay. The nurse said the results were on his desk and as soon as she reviewed them she'd call me. The nurse called this afternoon, but I had just woken up from a short nap and let the machine get it. (I'm so tired from my very busy day yesterday, and the day before that, and the day before that, etc.) I just called back but the office is closed so I left a message.

Julss05 - I did it pretty much as you suggested. I was out running errands yesterday that took me over by their office. Maybe it was because I was distracted by driving, but that got me to just grabbed the phone and call. :)

What baby related books are you ladies currently reading or would recommend? I have TCOYF but have only red a few segments of it - just stuff related to PCOS, fertility treatments and OPKs. I'm not getting any pregnancy books until I'm actually pregnant. What I would love is for someone to write a book called "What To Expect While You're TTC." :p

[Julss05]

What baby related books are you ladies currently reading or would recommend?

I've read TCOYF and Mayo Clinic Complete Book of Pregnancy and Baby's First Year. The first one was obviously very helpful for charting and the second one was very informative of what is to come but overwhelming. It would be nice to find a book with a step-by-step process/planning guide from TTC to delivery.

"What To Expect While You're TTC."
That would be nice!

Anyone hear of the snoogle pillow? My friend is due in April and I hear it is THE pillow to get a pregnant woman. I figured I'd get that for her for the shower with a separate gift for the baby.

[JLRenheos]

Julss05 My SIL is due with her 1st baby also, in April and she is already sleeping with a large body pillow. What is the snoogle pillow? Is it specifically contoured for an expectant mother?

[LynzeyAHL]

Julss05 My SIL is due with her 1st baby also, in April and she is already sleeping with a large body pillow. What is the snoogle pillow? Is it specifically contoured for an expectant mother?

its shaped like a big "C" so you can put part under your head and sleep with it under your belly and between your knees so you're comfortable sleeping on your side

[Reenie]

Baby-related books
I've read TCOYF, What to Expect When You're Expecting, The Baby Name Wizard, 10000 Baby Names, The Mayo Clinic Book, The Last Twenty-four Hours, a few books about pregnancy and health (diet and exercise), Baby Bargains, and a book about getting your body back into shape in the first thirty days PP, but I can't remember the name. I check out all that I can. :o At first, I felt silly, but really, I am a researcher and a planner, so I don't care what anyone thinks. :p


Does anyone else freak out?
Sure, because I know that there will be changes and because it's a lot of responsibility in so many ways. I think that's a good thing because it means that I am aware of the changes and how serious parenting is.

[LeslieandPaul]

Baby-related books
TCOYF (I've been TTA for almost two years), Before Your Pregnancy, The Mother of All Pregnancy Books (I got this one because it's Canadian), Baby Name Wizard, What to Expect-Eating Well When You're Expecting.

Does anyone else freak out?
Yes. I think about all the things that would change, and the responsibility involved, and freak out, and then i see parents interacting with their baby and how happy they are, and think "it would be so worth it."

[Julss05]

Anyone have a luteal phase on the long side and then go to short ones? Last cycle was only 12 and this one looks like it might be short too. Over the past few years they've been 14-16 days. Maybe I'm worrying over nothing:confused:.

Books
I'm thinking of giving the Mayo Clinic Book to my friend that is due soon, she'd get more use out of it than me right now. Baby Bargains That is one I want! Yeah and who cares if we aren't pregnant yet, us planners have to have something to do in the meantime:p.

[Sue]

Well, I broke down and bought "Great Expectations" today :) I plan on getting "Baby Bargains" too - used the wedding version - but not until next year. They update the book every 2 years, so 2007 there will be a new edition.

[LynzeyAHL]

Baby-related books
..., Baby Bargains, ...

<Rant>
I HATE HATE HATE This book. I work at BRU and I swear to god if one more expecting mom argues with me and the training I've had from the manufacturer saying "well the book says" they may be delivering early after I take them out back and beat them...


</Rant> sorry just had to get that out of my sytem... and now back to our regularly scheduled chatting.

[LynzeyAHL]

<Rant>
I HATE HATE HATE This book. I work at BRU and I swear to god if one more expecting mom argues with me and the training I've had from the manufacturer saying "well the book says" they may be delivering early after I take them out back and beat them...


</Rant> sorry just had to get that out of my sytem... and now back to our regularly scheduled chatting.

they don't joke when they say clomid gives you mood swings... :o

[lil_geek]

I JUST hosted (as in the last guest just left the house) my SIL's meet the baby shower. As she was leaving we were chatting about some of the double gifts she reveived and she brought up the whole planneing before you are PG topic...... she said they didn't know they were going to try until the day they started trying... and even then it took 4 months of trying which drove her nuts.

Do you think by planning too much ahead we (collective) are letting ourselves up for larger dissapointments/stress while TTC because we are expecting/planning/hoping for too much/it to be to easy?


I lurk in the TTC (especially TTC by charting) threads and the amount of women who FREAK when they don't conceive within the first month or 2 drive me nuts. I want to say it wouldn't be me, I know the odds/educated etc. But I wonder if we put to much emphasis on knowledge.

[Sue]

Well, if this gives you any insight to my personality... I had my wedding dress picked out 2 years before he proposed! Thank god they hadn't discontinued it!!

I'm just a planner by nature, I also go in cycles... Some weeks I can be borderline obsessed, others I never think about it. But I think it may be helpful in a way. I never knew about charting, clomid, infertility problems etc. before. I think that if we were to have a problem I would be better equipped with the info I now have and not be so freaked out and uncertain about what would be happening next.

[KaliLily]

But I wonder if we put to much emphasis on knowledge.

I think the information we have access to today is a good thing and a bad thing. Knowing about the effect PCOS has on my fertility allows me to be prepared and plan out how to overcome the obstacles. However, in many ways I wish I hadn't known anything about it as it has added so much stress to my life in the 10 yrs. since my diagnosis. It just takes all the fun out of TTC for me - and DH. I wish for the "fairtytale" of waking up one morning to find myself pregnant. My SIL was surprised by both of ther pregnancies. They didn't have to follow a schedule, they just DTD when they were in the mood and remarkably she got pregnant. I'm rather envious of her.

I thought I had the fairytale once 6 yrs ago when I was on BCP. I'd been forgetful and missed a couple pills one month, and a couple months later I just was not feeling well. After a thyroid test came back normal, I asked the doctor if I could be pregnant. She said I could so she tested me and it came back positive. DH and I were stunned since a baby wasn't in the plan then, but we were still excited and happy. About a week later we ran blood tests and found out I'd never been pregnant. So much for the fairytale. :(

ETA: Sorry for the depressing tangent. I'm having major PMS mood swings today.

[rubyslippers]

Does anyone else freak out?
YES! I know that having a baby will change our lives drastically. We're very happy, and a little self-indulgent. There is a lot of sleeping in, and some very late night dinners that will end. But we're ready and it's worth it. I also freak about the cost of daycare and our finances after.

As far as books go someone gave me a copy of WHAT TO EXPECT, but I haven't really read it yet.

[Julss05]

LynzeyAHL-I promise if I buy that book I won't go into BRU and give anyone a hard time;). Good luck with Clomid.

lil_geek- Possibly but I can't help myself! Like Sue I got my dress early in September, wedding was in June. I had everything done and ready to go by April-May. Did everything go as planned? No, but the major stuff was done which made it easier for me to relax and we had a great wedding despite little things not going right. I could definitely see where disappointments over planning too much could happen though. As much as we try we can't plan exactly when we will get pregnant and have a baby even with all the information. Well okay some of us get lucky but most times it won't be that way. If that were true I'd be due in February! A surprise would be nice because then you don't have to think about it beforehand but on the down side might not be as ready financially or otherwise. I've seen my mom, brother, and BIL struggle because of unplanned pregnancies and while they love their kids it's tough. I don't think any of them were ready for kids but had to be which created a lot of stress. I do like the idea of just DTD whenever and not following charts or guidelines by books, DH would prefer it that way but when nothing happens from doing it that way I imagine it gets frustrating. My friend due in April tried for 5 months without using anything, just DTD about 2 weeks after AF each month. No charting, ovulation tests, books, or anything else people use to get pregnant. I have another friend who has been DTD unprotected, not really trying but not preventing for a year with no positive results which has caused some stress in the marriage. I don't expect it to be easy to get pregnant but I feel that by charting I'll at least know my body better to not possibly try as long. I do agree with KaliLily that too much information can be a good and bad thing.

[bethnjim]

It is such a huge change to bring a baby into the family. My sister is finished, my sister-in-law is finished--both have two and my other sister-in-law really wants a baby, but my brother doesn't. My husband watches commercials with babies and gives me the look and when he holds my niece who is 9 months, he gives me the LOOK, so I know he is ready for this to happen. I seem to be the one digging my heels in a bit. We originally said July or August 2007 and he is now saying March 2007.

I agree with all of you that "you will never be 100% ready". I really OVERPLAN things and I think that is what I am doing here. I keep thinking of all of the things that COULD go wrong instead of focusing on the things that will be wonderful.:p

As for books, I haven't read any yet. I keep putting it off. I am also trying to lose down to my wedding weight before we start trying. I am getting pretty close to it.