Aug'05Moms: Welcome Arabella, Logan, Victoria, Ava, Logan, Aidan, Jeb, & Trenton!

[LeslieR]

Tracy, that is great news!!!

Lots of progress going on around here it seems!

So, we dropped my car off and I'm back at home. Yep, I'm not going to work. I could barely keep my eyes open on the way to the detail place. How am I going to make it through the next couple weeks on no sleep???

[Cosmogirl]

Lori Isn't Janet a first time mom...and she is what 3 weeks early. So don't despair.
Maybe you have already some work done, and you'll go sooner then you think. Just enjoy the last weeks, I think that is all we can do. I don,t know of natural ways to make labor come faster, but I think there are some, maybe you can try those...

Tracy That is GREAT news! Sending you good vibes for a soon to be here babe!

[snowzilla]

QOTD: Coming home outfit Well, I wish I knew the sex of this baby, so I could pick one out! I have a simple white outfit picked out, but it was intended for a baby arriving at the end of August, when things have cooled off a wee bit, not one arriving in July, when it is so darned hot!

I went looking for an outfit yesterday while I was finishing off my must-buy list, but I couldn't find anything unisex. :( So, I guess DH will have to make a quick trip to a store after the baby is born to pick something out, if it is still this warm, and the outfit I have isn't appropriate.

Nice to see you over here, Amanda! :)

[Kiley]

Congratulations Janet & Jack!!!!
and Welcome Anders!

[elh1015]

Here is our little man Anders!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/blessed05/61d45d42.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/blessed05/3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/blessed05/654e2485.jpg


Can't remember if I had provided his stats before:
6lbs, 2oz, 18 1/2 in.

They expect to be home from the hospital this weekend.

[adore_one]

Oh he is precious.

Congratulations once again Janet and Jack!

[leftrightrepeat]

He's gorgeous -congrats again!! :D

[sarahanna115]

He has beautiful hair and such a precious face! Welcome Anders! I'm so proud of the first August baby. :D

[tracer]

He is adorable and looks so healthy...thank you, thank you for the pics. Janet too looks awesome!

I am so jealous that a first time mommy can go 3 weeks early! I bet a lot of you will be going soon! This thread is going to be hopping more than ever come the next few weeks.

Leslie I was so like you when I was prego the last time. I never wanted to go to work, couldn't wait until my maternity leave kicked in, was always tired and just wanted to be doing what I wanted to be doing. When do you go on leave?

[hope0805]

OMG, I leave for a few days (or has it been a week) and come back to find that we have a BABY!!! Congratulations Janet & Jack, and welcome Anders. He is precious.

Sorry I haven't been in here, but I have been super swamped at work and am finding it harder to follow along with this than I did on WC (no real reason, except maybe that fewer posts show on a page). I hope no one is offended that I can't possibly do SO's -- there is just too much going on. I do wonder if any of the second time moms has had an experience similar to what happened to me yesterday at my appointment, or if anyone else knows anyone who has, though ...

He first did the GBS, which as some others have said I didn't think was too bad. Then he did an internal and said that my cervix was completely long and closed -- no effacement, no dilation whatsoever -- and felt "like the cervix of someone who was 5 months pregnant, if that." Yikes. But then for the really bad part. He starts feeling my belly, and can't find anything that feels like the baby's head down low, so he moves his hands up and asks "did the baby do a somersault?" I say I don't know, that I'm still feeling what seems to be hard kicking up at the top near my ribs so I assumed he was still head down (which we know he was @ 30 wks b/c I had an u/s then). Doctor then listens for the HB, and I guess based what he had felt and where the HB was (right side, sort of in the middle) says "I think this baby is transverse, we need to find out, but may have to schedule a c-section." After getting up off the table and getting dressed, I go meet with him and am sort of freaking out at this point. I ask if there is anything I can do to help the baby change position, and of course he says no, and also says that if the little one is transverse, he is really unlikely to turn at this point. Did anyone go through this before or know anyone who did who can shed some light? I thought they could shift around later than 35 weeks (and also found some exercises on the Internet that are recommended). Particularly b/c no one thinks he is truly breech (e.g., head up), but merely that his head is on the side rather than being pointed down. Any thoughts??? I don't want a c-section unless I can absolutely not avoid it!!! The thought of actually having the surgery scares me like nothing else, and I really don't like the idea of the longer time in the hospital or the increased recovery time.

And an update -- ultrasound to check position on 7/18, doctor's appointment on 7/19

[QPDoll]

What a beautiful baby boy! He looks so precious and perfect! Im glad to hear he is doing wonderful and will be home so soon!

[myhoney]

Oh, he is too precious. And, Janet, you look wonderful! Congratulations!

[L-O-V-E]

Darn it! I can't see pictures here at work so I have to wait til tonight!

Thanks, Ladies, for the words of encouragement. You always make me feel better! :)

[QPDoll]

And an update -- ultrasound to check position on 7/18, doctor's appointment on 7/19

Glad you have an ultrasound appointment to confirm, and YES!!!! Babies can turn up until delivery! It sounds like he is jumping the gun in saying that they can't turn and is going to schedule you. Even my OB won't schedule me until the last minute possible.

*edited to add: you can change how many posts you can view on one page in the Users CP (users control panel) up on the top menu bar on the left side of it.

[Mickey&B]

Lori Thanks I was sure I had it but I didn't label it in my address book so I wasn't totally sure if it was you or not. and as the others have said try not to worry to much about being late because you just never know, so far all my friends (2, first time mom's) one was due late July and the other shared my due date have both already had their babies Go figure :rolleyes:

Oh Anders is just so precious Thanks for sharing those photos!

hope Just yesterday my MW said that they don't start to even worry about position until 37 weeks, and if he were not in postion she would discuss with me ways to get him to move. BTW she also thought he was transverse cause she couldn't feel his head, but when she checked with the u/s she found him indeed head down, he was just still very high! Bottom line I guess is don't worry, if he is transverse he could still change position

[Cosmogirl]

Awwwwwwww such a cute kid!!!
COngrats Janet!

[tracer]

Hope- I also agree with the others, you still have time. I also think he shouldn't have jumped the gun so quickly about a c-section. Try not to worry for another week or two and then see what position he is in. If he flipped while you were at the doctor, my guess is he is still small and flipping a lot. Hang in there sweetie.

[Akire]

Congrats to Janet & Jack & Welcome to the world Anders!
What a cutie! :D

[shellbell516]

Anders is just so precious and doesn't even look like he was 3 weeks early.

[Daniel's Kitty]

AWWW!!! How cute. What an adorable little baby.
I wish I had checked last night. I have a major problem though! I started crying when I read it. I pointed all the cute little babies out last night when we went to the building site to see what was happenning. I was almost more interested in the babies than the house.

Amanda I am happy that you found us! I was wondering what had happened to you.

[gardenmommy]

Congratulations Janet and Jack!
Welcome to this beautiful world Anders, and Happy birthday!

Oh I am just beside myself with excitement over our first August baby! Aren't you all dying?

[gardenmommy]

Lori~ Have no fear...I have a friend who was due this past sunday July 10...she had made 0 progress and her doctor thought she would go 2 weeks late. Lo and behold she delivered the next day! Remember all it takes is just a few minutes for everything to change. Keep that chin up!

Hope~ My Dr found that I was breech at 34 weeks as well...I have another appointment his week at 37 weeks...she thinks if I am still breech today we will schedule a c-section, but they can seriously turn anytime!

I got an interesting tip at our childbirth class this weekend for turning a transverse or breech baby. Take a bag of frozen veggies and put it where the baby's head is on the outside of your belly. Then put somthing warm like a warm towel or hot water bottle type thing down near your pelvis where you want the baby's head to go. I'm not sure low long it takes but apparently they move away from the cold and towards the heat.

Stay positive...I'll be sending you good turning vibes!

[LeslieR]

Dying!!! It's so exciting. I still can't believe it. And Anders is a complete doll. I found myself thinking "If that's a 6lb baby, I am in trouble!" lol On top of the excitement here, we got a call from Sal's friend just about an hour ago or so, his wife had their baby this morning also by c-section. I guess she was breech, so it was a scheduled c. Her due date was 10 days before mine or so. So exciting! We sent off a small flower arrangement with a bear and a balloon. Hopefully we can go see her Saturday. They didn't know the sex and I guessed boy when I was at her shower, but it was a girl. Sal was joking with his friend that the arranged marriage between our babes is on. lol And now with all of that excitement I feel really bad for my friend whose due date was 7/10 and she's still pregnant. Thank God her dr will only let her go a week overdue before he will induce. Hopefully something will happen before then. Jeez, I'm awfully talkative for someone who is now overtired, huh? lol

[maren]

Congrats Janet! Weclome Anders! he is SO cute!

Hope - You defintely still have time to turn the baby and there's lots of things you can try. The most successful thing I've heard about is the "Webster Technique" which is done by a chiropractor. In recent study done it had something like a 80% sucesses rate. Here's info on it: http://www.storknet.com/cubbies/childbirth/exsj3.htm

Here are some other things from Spinning Babies (http://www.spinningbabies.com/pregnancy.html)

1 - Get in a pool and do lots of front flips underwater.

2 - The breech tilt is well known. Get a broad plank of wood, like an ironing board. Prop it at an angle against the couch or a chair. A few pillows stuffed around the base will help prevent tipping. Another pillow goes under your neck. The funny thing is next. Lie on the board with your head down and feet resting on either side of the board on the couch. Take a couple tries to get it right. Then remain on the board for up to 20 minutes, 3 times a day.

3 - After you've got this down and you can relax inverted like this, put a wrapped up bag of frozen vegies behind baby's head, and a very warm pac in front of the baby near your pubic bone. Put the warm pac on the same side of your belly as the baby's hands and feet are on, but close to your pubic bone.Other times, place a paper towel tube in the same spot and have family members speak through it or play Mozart or Beethoven.

Hope that baby turns!

[michael'sbride]

Ugh! I won't be able to see the pictures until tonight. Its already killing me! I can't wait to see that beautiful baby boy!

Hope If your little one still has room to turn transverse then there's still room to turn back around. Hang in there. Its way too early to be discussing a C-Section as anything but a last possible resort! Glad you know you have an U/S scheduled.

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

Notes on me....

~I officially have only 11.5 days of work left until my induction. Less if he comes on his own! I can totally make it another 11.5 days.

~My neighbors are throwing me a shower, how sweet is that?

~Don't quote me on this but I *think* that Mr. Evan's head fully engaged itself this morning!! I was in the shower and I felt a sharp movement on my left side and then a hefty thunk in my pelvis and now the pressure is crazy. Not to mention all of a sudden today the amount of discharge i've been having is more then I've had all along. I *think* something is going on! YAY!

~Totally off topic, but I ate lunch in the same cafe as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Offensive Coordinator. That was the highlight of my day so far!

Its a mixed bag over here!

[LeslieR]

Wow Melissa!!! That is some exciting news!

Hmmm...who is going to be next??? I wonder...

[michael'sbride]

Leslie, i'm trying not to get my hopes up too high. I don't want to be broken hearted if I go in on Monday and I'm still high and firm. But, I can't seem to think of any other reason that his head would thunk into my pelvis like that.

I would be totally satisfied with even a centimeter of dialation. Just to say I've done something! Ya know?

[adore_one]

My appointment is tomorrow morning - I sure hope the doc does an internal? Do they always starting at 36 weeks? I want to know what is going on down there now. My doc just seems so relaxed so I am a little worried she won't

Last night DH was very firm about me getting my bag packed LOL! His has been packed for 3 weeks, but mine - nope nothing...I know I am awful!!!

Also - this morning I woke up at 4am w/ the WORST heartburn and acid reflux ever. I could not sleep at all for a whole hour I had to sit up I semi-hurled (sorry trying to find the nicest way to talk about gross stuff) about 4 times. I still have yucky stomach today and was sick with cramping and yuckies this morning. Also my back hurts like all get out. Just weird things seem to be going on. I am debating changing my last day at work to tomorrow. :eek:

[LeslieR]

I would be totally satisfied with even a centimeter of dialation. Just to say I've done something! Ya know?

I completely know what you mean. I had such high hopes for even a cm at my last appt! lol Now I've learned my lesson and I'm not counting on anything for the next one.

Ya know, I really think the anticipation of this baby's arrival is going to kill me. I was telling Sal the other night how this is way worse than the wait for our wedding day. That was a totally different kind of anticipation-at least we knew WHEN it was going to happen. With the baby-it's totally up in the air. THAT is driving me crazy!

[L-O-V-E]

I second that, Leslie! The not knowing is the worst!

Melissa - Sounds like good news to me! :)

[Red'sGirl]

YAY! Congrats to Janet! Happy Birthday, Anders!

It's so exciting to see our thread finally having babies! Now that we've "broken the seal", let's see if we can get some others. I still have no real hope of anything going on. Baby girl is hanging out at my ribs, enjoying the view. BUT, only one more day at work!!! And I have a few more things I need to do for her arrival.

coming home outfit I have one packed that I thought was really cute, but now that we're hovering near the 90's, it may be too hot. I picked out another, lighter outfit last night, and have to wash it in the next day or two.

Melissa "Powder" is too funny. I love the "who, me?" expression. BTW, when you run into Jon Gruden, LET ME KNOW!!! I love him (though I loved him more when he was with my Oakland Raiders) ;) .

After work yesterday, I unpacked the rest of our shower from last week. I am happy to say that they really got us a lot of things off our registry, so I'm thrilled. Things are coming together. Now, if only someone would clean our kitchen. :rolleyes: DH made pasta for dinner and then made cookies(!). He's good about cleaning (and I haven't done the dishes in forever!), but we're just behind now, so I think I'll actually clean up when I get home tonight.

LET'S GO LADIES!!! MORE BABIES!!!

[LILRTL]

Anders is absolutely adorable!!!!! So precious!!! Congrats again, Janet! :D

Update on ME
Well, I had a good appointment. I have gained 5 lbs. in 2 weeks. :o Other than that, all was well. I am 1-2 cm dilated and 50% effaced!!!!! :D She could feel his head!!! :eek: According to the ultrasound, he weighs approximately 6 lbs. 6 oz. She is estimating his birth weight to be right around 7.5 lbs. Works for me!!!

She could only get one good shot of his face. He had it all scrunched up. The little goob!
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d935b3127cce929d3dc6bddf00000016109AbsmrJk5au

I'm ready to start my long walks and spicy foods!!!!!!! :D

[michael'sbride]

Third! Not knowing is torture!

[michael'sbride]

Lora He is absolutely to die for!! What a doll!

[L-O-V-E]

Lora - What a great picture! And you must be just thrilled with all that progress! And you're only 35 weeks! That rocks!

Question for you - did they figure out your dilation and effacement through the ultrasound, or did you have an internal? I have one more ultrasound on Tuesday at 38 weeks, and I'm wondering if they'll be able to tell me anything, since my dr. doesn't do internals... Thanks!

[LILRTL]

Thanks, girls! :)

Lori I had an internal. I had my GBS today, so she just went ahead and felt around since I have been having cramping/contractions for 2-3 weeks. :D Only a week 'til full-term. Hoping he comes early! :D

[sarahanna115]

Melissa Yay for only 11 more days of work, and super yay ;) for him dropping!! Quick progress vibes for ya!

You too, Lora! That is awesome about how far you already are! I am SO JEALOUS! :D Hope I get the same type of news next week. And your little man is TOO CUTE! Looks like he is ready to come out and meet the world!

[Daniel's Kitty]

yea for everybodies progress.
I hope I make some progress soon too. Even though I still have a while to go.

I am hoping that I can get Daniel to give me a back rub tonight! I am all achy today. It is off and on, but I am so sick of it. It feels like my period is about to start, but I know that isn't a worry.

I found out that one of my friends is thinking about going out with his ex again. They were really cute together though so it is pretty cool.

[hope0805]

Thanks all, for the comforting words, I really do feel like my OB jumped the gun by saying that if he is transverse right now that means automatic scheduled CS. There is still time, and I am going to spend a great deal of it doing all of the home remedy type things you guys have suggested. I will also ask the doctor about the Webster Technique when I go in on Tuesday. I'm willing to try just about anything. Of course, now that I say I want to go through labor, I'll be one of those people who has 42 hours, an epidural that offers little relief, and a CS at the end anyway, but I want to at least give it a shot. :eek:

I am really wondering if he is still head down and just really high up, like Mickey&B. That would be consistent with the fact that I have not had any effacement or dilation (e.g., things have just not started to "get going" down there). We shall see on Monday at 3 pm, I suppose.

[kerbahr]

Glad to hear everybody is doing well!

Congrats to Janet & Jack! Anders is adorable!!!

I cannot believe we are all so close!

I have my last u/s, my first internal exam and the GBS test tomorrow. I wonder if I'm making any progress. I'm thinking not. I've hardly had even any BHC and I don't think the baby has dropped at all....

As far as our coming home outfit goes, I have some cute sleepers from Baby Gap, one for a boy and one for a girl. I was told by a couple of people that long sleeve/long legged stuff would be fine, because even if it's hot out, most places are air conditioned. They probably won't be too hot.

[LILRTL]

Coming Home Outfit We actually bought one that Sarah posted a while ago - this one from GAP:
http://www.gap.com/assets/product/main/baby/bg284204-00p1.jpg
We are going to pack a gown as well in case that swallows him (or is too small :p ). Hoping it will fit!!

My next appointment is on July 22. We are meeting with the 3rd doctor in the practice (there are 4). Hoping I like her! I wasn't crazy about the male doctor I met two weeks ago. :eek:

[Daniel's Kitty]

Cute outfit!

I have a couple of onesies that are going with us, one says "Thank heaven for little boys" One is plain with polka dots. And I also have a really cute little outfit.

[adore_one]

How many outfits will they need while they are there? OMG I totally forgot about clothes for little man.

I am so hosed

...bad mommy

[alex67]

Major congrats to Janet and Jack!!! He is such a cutie!

I had an appt this morning. Everything looks good and right on target for 34 weeks. My internals and weekly appts start next appt which is July 28th. Doc thinks Trenton is sideways right now (transverse?) but is not concerned at this time. I have gained 29 lbs total. I am pretty ok with that. Plus I have had a lot of junk in the past week due to loss of power from the hurricane. Hard to eat healthy without a fridge. :rolleyes:

DH and I are in the middle of taking an infant care class. We already took Part 1 and will take Part 2 next week. It has been very informative. We learned just regular baby care info but also about how to soothe our baby with different methods. Very handy and really impressive. DH did a great job with diapering, bathing, feeding, etc. I think he is ready!

[sarahanna115]

Lora I still am IN LOVE with that outfit! I am going by the mall tonight (without DH so he can't say NO!) and see if it's still around. It's too cute! :D

[gardenmommy]

Melissa~ Great progress! I know you're trying not to get your hopes up but I'll be hoping that things move quickly for ya ok??

Lora~ Ah grat news! You must be so excited with your progress too! :D

Well I have some fun news...our baby bean is still breech so we scheduled a c-section for July 29!! :D :D I'm so excited! Things might happen earlier but I haven't progressed any since 2 weeks ago so I'm thinking we are staying put until the 29th which is fine by me! So We'll have at least 2 July babies :D

I'm a titch nervous about the c-section but mainly because Brent keeps making it sounds like my recovery will be really horrible. He was saying something like I'll probably be in a bad mood for a couple weeks afterward...I was like "trust me I'll be so happy not to be PG anymore and have my little one here I'll be grinning from ear to ear despite any lack of sleep!"

Going home outfit~ One of our neighbors gave us this adorable little one-piece outfit at our shower last week...it's white with colorful litel seacreatures on it like turtles and an octopus, andit had oragne trim...I love it and it came with a matching lightweight blanket so I think we're gonna use that. Then again I might just go shopping next week when I'm off and buy a boy and girl outfit for our surprize arrival :D

[adore_one]

Jennifer - well as scary as a CS might be it must be nice knowing for sure when at least!!!

Now you ladies have me searching for cute outfits. Have not found something to bring him home, but how cute is this for fall!!!
http://www.childrensplace.com/www/b/TCP/images/giftlooks/F-17-S1-15.jpg

Must get back to work so I can get the hell out of here ASAP!!!!!

[Mickey&B]

Sara I just saw that outfit on Tuesday at Baby Gap and it was on sale for $7.50 I think, I knew I should have waited!!!

As far as going home outfits I have two packed one is the Baby Gap one posted and the other is also one I got from Baby Gap it's a blue outfit with a little shark in the middle, I also packed the matching blanket and socks :p

Sounds like lots of progress is being made around here, I wonder who will be going next?
As for me Little Bean is proving to me that he is still very high I can't get him out of my right rib Ouchie!!!

[hope0805]

Alex, funny that we got the same news recently about having babies who are transverse (which is the same as sideways), but totally different reactions from our doctors. Yours said: Doc thinks Trenton is sideways right now (transverse?) but is not concerned at this time. While mine said: Transverse baby = c-section. Amazing ...

Gardenmommy: Sorry to hear baby is breech, but you sound like you are good with the CS and honestly, even though I say I still don't want one, I can definitely see the upside now that I think about it. I takes the guesswork out of what labor and delivery will be like. And don't let DH get on you about the recovery -- while some people say it is worse, I have plenty of friends who were up miving around after 24 hours and were just as active (if not moreso) once they went home as other friends who have had rough (and even not so rough) labors. I've been told that the sooner you can get yourself up and walking, the better the recovery is, and that it's really a matter of how your body handles it whether it's a CS or a vaginal delivery, so there is no way to tell. And I think I have the same going home outfit -- is it from Gymboree?

[tracer]

Stac- You really only need one or two outfits and those would be for the baby to come home in. You will be so exhausted and learning everything that you will just want to use the hospital shirts they supply for your little one. Plus if they spit up on them, they bring you a new one and do the laundry. Usually they won't wash your own clothes and if they do, you probably won't get them back.

Cute outfits you all are posting! The degrees will be in the 100's here so we are bringing a short outfit. I will post a pic of it later today.

[adore_one]

Thanks Tracy - so they do give them clothes while they are there -see that is GOOD TO KNOW!!

[sdauer21]

I knew I was going to be in trouble...I haven't been able to get online since yesterday afternoon, and I had LOTS of catching up to do!! First things first...

Janet - CONGRATULATIONS on the arrival of ANDERS!!! He's beautiful! So glad he arrived healthy and safe!

Can't possibly do SOs, but I think we established that's ok, right?! :rolleyes: Now that I'm finally on line, I can't remember any of what I was going to post. Figures. I've had a weird day - had a long night last night, after my visit to the doc. Tons of cramping and irregular but hard and long contractions, so I was up for several hours. I've definately lost my mp, but to my dismay, I'm still at home. Things have all but stopped, as far as activity, so I guess my prediction for a July 14 arrival isn't going to be. I did drop Tallie off at the sitters this morning, though, since I was feeling so cruddy. Someone mentioned revenge of the heartburn - I woke up around midnight about to throw up! It hasn't been that bad ever. I'm glad it subsided after I got up.

Anyway - enough of the belly aching. I haven't decided on a going home outfit for the Bean - I have 4 things packed, so figure I'll decide when the time comes. She'll model her "I'm the Little Sister" t-shirt with Tallie for photo opps, but as for what she'll actually wear home, I don't know yet. I do have my bag pretty much packed, and after my mini cleaning spree this afternoon, the house is in pretty good shape, too.

Will and I started talking about what to do about the in-laws visiting yesterday, so I've been thinking about that a lot. We didn't have to worry about visits when Tallie was born, since it was winter, and well...the in-laws don't travel in the winter. I know that if we tell them we are inducing on the 26th, they'll be here the 25th. I just need to figure out if I'm comfortable with that. Will told me he would tell his parents whatever I wanted to tell them - that they could come right away, or that they had to wait. I just need to figure out what I'm comfortable with. I wish I knew. :confused: On one hand, I know that MIL is crazy excited about this baby and really wants to be here as soon as possible. On the other hand, this pregnancy has been really really stressful - especially the last 2 months - and the thought of having a week to ourselves is really appealing. I do not want to hurt any one's feelings, but I also need to do whats best for us, as a new family, too. I'm just so undecided, which surprises me! I'm usually pretty firm one way or the other. Mostly, I just really don't want to have people here to entertain. Will's terrible at doing that, and even when I shouldn't, I feel obligated to make sure everyone is happy and busy and taken care of. I know that having the in-laws and SIL here to visit is going to be stressful. I just can't predict how well I'll deal with that stress.

Ok - enough rambling. Off to finish my cleaning. so happy to be back in touch with everyone!! I think I might start a section on the first page or two for stupid comments people are getting - there are some truly priceless ones!! :D

[Amandabug]

Wow! Anders is Beautiful! I love the pics.. We need some more babies born here so I can see all the beautiful pictures...

I have another doc apt tomorrow.. I am excitied to see if anything else is going on. I doubt it though... I just would love to meet this baby and can't wait to see whether it's a boy or girl! Amanda

[tracer]

Stac-Also you do SO many diaper changes that it would be a PITA to have to unbutton or take of any bottoms. The shirt is long sleeved, white, snaps from one side to the other on the front and has hand cuffs. (the extra flap that folds off the babys hand so they can't scratch anything) They are also wrapped in blanket after blanket that you don't really see what they are wearing anyways. I happen to really love the shirts they use, so we have some at home. We used them for a few weeks once we got home and the sleep sacks/gowns at night as they are so much easier to change diapers in.

[gardenmommy]

Thanks Tracy - so they do give them clothes while they are there -see that is GOOD TO KNOW!!

Stacey~ when we took our hospital tour they told us that all babaies have to be in hospital clothes accept when they get their picture taken or go home. Otherwise they want them in hospital attire so they can check them easily and keep track of who is a hospital patient and who is not.

You might want to ask what they do at your hosptial.

[MurphysLaw]

Anders is a little cutie!! Congrats again to Janet & Jack!!

Sounds like we have a few ladies in line for second?? Good to hear more progress being made. I doubt anything different happens for me considering my due date is *technically* the 29th...going early on the 15th is probably the soonest possible!

QOTD: Coming home outfit...we bought this off GAP.com a while back
http://images.snapfish.com/34445%3A%3A723232%7Ffp64%3Dot%3E2329%3D36%3A%3D%3B 83%3DXROQDF%3E23238%3B5%3B232%3B%3Aot1lsi
The size is 0-3 months, if it's a little big that's okay. It's SO cute, I'm hoping she can wear it more than once, ya know? Plus I doubt she'll use every piece...probably the long-seeved onesie, cap & blanket. It's hot here in August, but (1) there is A/C inside and (2)they've been used to OUR body temp which is 98.6+/-(that's what I've been told by every mommy on earth I believe).

I've been feeling SO blah lately. I think it's my payback for having such a great pregnancy so far. I cannot get comfy at night. at. all. We keep the thermostat on 68 yet I wake up naked, with the covers kicked off of me laying on my back all spread out, then i have to roll because the weight of baby is on *something*...it's a vicious cycle every. freaking. night. :( Sorry to whine.

And I can't tell for the LIFE of me how baby is positioned! I feel her kicking/punching everywhere...so even when little body parts seem to be poking out, I can't tell what's what.:confused: Anyone else??

[sarahanna115]

This is like 5 days, late but what the hey. Here's my 34 week belly pic... :) (Taken in my crappy bathroom cause DH was a lazy arse about getting the pics taken last week!)

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/sarahanna115/p7113025.jpg

And for fun, here's what I call my "holy boobs batman" pic (at a Toby Keith concert with DH)...I swear they keep growing and growing and growing! :eek:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/sarahanna115/P1000356.jpg

[snowzilla]

Sarah, you look so beautiful in both pictures! But I have to tell you, I'm totally cracking up at the little old lady sipping on the straw over your shoulder at the Toby Keith concert. :p

[tracer]

Sarah you are too adorable! I love the pics and the lil ole lady in the back!

[LeslieR]

lmao Carla! I didn't even see the old lady. She looks like the one from the Hallmark Shoebox cards! lol

Sarah, you look absolutely gorgeous!:D

Crap-I just read 3 pages of posts and now I can't remember what I wanted to say. lol

Lora, WOOHOO on your progress!!! I, too, am GREEN with envy!

Kim, I feel you, boy, do I feel you!!!

Tracy, your description of the hospital t's reminded me of something I wanted to ask. I remember reading in Baby Bargains to buy some side snap t's and some of the t's that go over the head. Something about them not irritating the umbilical (sp?) cord? I put them on my registry, but we didn't get any. Should I buy some or will onesies be fine?

I love everyone's coming home outfits! So cute!!!

Our coming home outfit-I think I remember posting this at WC-I packed this:
http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0006J2QTI.16._AA260_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg (shirt, pants, hat, booties, and blankie)
I'm not sure what size it is, though, and am now thinking it might be too small.:confused:

I also packed another outfit that looks something like this:
http://slimages.macys.com/is/image/MCY/products/0/optimized/167990_fpx.tif?bgc=255,255,255&wid=273&qlt=90,0&layer=comp&op_sharpen=0&resMode=bilin&op_usm=0.7,1.0,0.5,0&fmt=jpeg
It's pinstriped and says "Thank heaven for little boys" and came with a cute hat. I think it's 0-3M, so we should be good with that one if the other one is too small.

Ater my last post I was able to take a little catnap. Then we went and picked up my car, which has never been so clean since I bought it.:eek: After that we went out for dinner at this Mexican restaurant and I was in pig heaven. I had a virgin mango margarita that was too die for! (not exactly on the GD diet, but oh well) We brought home our leftovers and I am thinking about diving into them right now! :p

[snowzilla]

lmao Carla! I didn't even see the old lady. She looks like the one from the Hallmark Shoebox cards! lol LMAO, yes, the cranky one who makes the snide remarks! (Who I bear a strong chance of becoming as I get older!)

[MurphysLaw]

Sarah, you look fantastic!! And that little ole lady is a riot....she looks like Hallmark's Maxine, lol!!

http://www.hallmark.com/wcsstore/HallmarkStore/images/products/papercards/zmd4672_49v1_xxl.jpg
"Let's see...hours of screaming labor, about a million poopy diapers, thousands of loads of laundry, years and years of sleepless nights..."

And the inside reads: "...and you get a Mother's Day card. Sounds fair."
LOL!!

[MurphysLaw]

Hahaha Gmta ;)

[L-O-V-E]

I finally got to see the pictures. Anders is just beautiful! Janet, you must be one proud momma!!!!

[LILRTL]

LMAO! That lady is hilarious!!! (Sarah Bet you never thought your pics would get THIS kind of reaction! :p )

You look great!! :D

[adore_one]

Sarah you are a GORGEOUS mom to be! Just Glowing!!!

Tracy - Thanks for the info.

We have our first prepared childbirth class on Saturday so I know nothing yet!!!!!

[LeslieR]

Sarah, you look fantastic!! And that little ole lady is a riot....she looks like Hallmark's Maxine, lol!!

http://www.hallmark.com/wcsstore/HallmarkStore/images/products/papercards/zmd4672_49v1_xxl.jpg
"Let's see...hours of screaming labor, about a million poopy diapers, thousands of loads of laundry, years and years of sleepless nights..."

And the inside reads: "...and you get a Mother's Day card. Sounds fair."

LOL!!

lmao!!!

[QPDoll]

On my way to nap, but wanted to post about my appointment today.

Contractions were measuring 7 minutes apart today during the NST. Im 3cms dialated, 50% effaced and baby A is at station 2 (-2?). Scheduling a c/s for the last week of July, date unknown until my OB checks the calendar (will find out next week). Baby B is transverse, and so I feel more comfortable with a c/s rather than trying to turn him after A is out, or ending up with a vag delivery for A and a c/s for B. She won't schedule me before that because the longer inside cooking is always better. If I go into spontaneous labor on my own, thats fine. Im officially off terb AND off of bedrest (for all the good that will do me, I can barely move!).

Oh, and baby A was in the way during her finger check of my cervix, so she had to DIG AROUND him with her finger to move my cervix. Oh-my-freeking-lord. Yeah, I don't want to go through labor. That made me cry and scoot right out of the stirrups.

[L-O-V-E]

OMG! The resemblance with that old lady is just too much. I'm cracking up!

Sarah - You do look beautiful, as always!

Jen - Yippee for having a birth date! Must be so nice to take the unknown out of the equation! I used to be scared of csections, but honestly, my sister had one and she is the biggest wimp and drama queen ever, and she pulled through like a champ. Same with some friends. You'll do great, I am sure! :)

Tina - Ouch!! That sounds so painful! I totally understand you wanting to avoid both a vaginal and cesarian birth. I'd feel the same way. I'm glad you're able to proceed the way that your most comfortable with. Good news!

[gardenmommy]

Sarah~ You look great as always! Nice to see you with your DH home.That old lady is killing me! too funny!

QP~ So do you feel somewhat relieved to just know you're having the c-section rather than seeing how it turns out? I'm sure you will do great.

Lori~ Thanks so much for the words of encouragement.

Well I spoke with my doctors schedulign nirse and tey had ot move our c-section to Monday August 1 due to conflicts with the OR...So our little one will be born on it's actual due date! Who'da thunk it? :D

[sarahanna115]

that old lady -- haha, yeah! she is hilarious! probably gettin drunk as a skunk. ;) LMAO! I'm glad it's good for a laugh!!!!! Definitely the Maxine lady!!

(TY everyone for nice compliments, makes me forget those "getting fatter eh?" comments! :p )

[Red'sGirl]

OMG! I didn't think about the umbilical cord issue! My outfits are both onesies. Maybe I should try to find a T-shirt and pant ensemble?? Is this really a problem? Ugh. There's just so much to try to think about.

I have to admit that I am really jealous. I'm one of the earliest due dates, and feel like I'm not going to deliver until well into August. I so want some progress! BUT, I'm happy for those who are moving along (see, I can rise above my bitterness. :) ).

[LeslieR]

Tina, great progress mama! I'm glad you're going with the scheduled c-section. All that talk of possibly delivering baby A vaginally and Baby B by c-section really made me nervous for you. I have a feeling you might go into labor before you have time to schedule, though!:D Now, go get some rest!

[LILRTL]

Tina Sounds like you had a productive appointment!!! That's great to at least know that you *CAN* go into labor at any time, and everything will be perfect with your little boys!! That has got to be the most rewarding thing in the world for you!!! :D :D

[LeslieR]

Jennifer, on your due date-how fun!!! I know you just can't wait to find out if it's a boy or girl!

[gardenmommy]

Leslie~ Yup I'm dying to know!! DH has said a boy all along but after our appointment today he is convinced it's a girl. We have such poor intuition! :rolleyes:

Going home outfits.... I was just reading a thread about these in FP...A lot of moms used premie outfits because their newborns were swimming in newborn sizes or 0-3mo. sizes. Are all of yours newborn sized? I'm debating getting a few premie outfits next week :rolleyes:

[LeslieR]

I have exactly 2 newborn size outfits that we got as gifts. The rest are 0-3M and then up from there. My dr actually told me at my visit on Tuesday not to buy any newborn sizes for Luke (because he's so big). lol

[Sully130]

Just wanted to send a quick "CONGRATS!" to Janet and Jack on the birth of Anders. I saw a pic of him on LJ and he is just precious. I can't wait to read all about it. :-)

As for you other August Moms-to-be, I'm looking forward to reading about the births of your bundles of joy here in the very near future. Take care of yourselves. :D

[MurphysLaw]

Jennifer - Doesn't it feel good to have a set date?:) As far as the recovery goes, everyone is different, just keep that in mind. My mom has warned and warned, but my doctor thinks I'll be back to "normal" in no time. Keep in mind my mom's was an emergency with my brother breeched & the cord around his neck...her scar is vertical also, it was a last minute-we HAVE to do this- kind of thing, where yours and mine are planned. ALSO, getting up and moving in the hospital (walking around, etc) will help a lot also.

Tina - I'm sorry that your appt was so uncomfy!! :( I'm wondering if you'll go sooner than expected since you are off the terb...you're contrax may not have been consistent but it sure seemed like a lot that you posted about!! I'm glad you don't have to go through labor & a C, I was worried for you about that as well!!

Going home outfits - Hmmm, mine that I got were available in 2 smaller sizes: up to 7 lbs, and up to 3 months. I got up to 3 months because a lot of my mommy friends told me that up to 7lbs prob wouldn't be big enough after I washed it. :confused: Why must this be so difficult!! :p

[michael'sbride]

Wrote a post and the somehow hit back and lost it.

The moral of the story was Hi Everyone!! Sarah's looks beautiful, thanks Jennifer for the progress vibes...so exciting that our babies will be one day apart, way to hang in there Tina...the last week in July is only two weeks away! Darrian, I'll telly Jon Gruden that you say Hi if I ever see him in the cafeteria.

I'm off to bed early tonight. I'm so exhausted!

I forgot to add that Anders is just beautiful! Isn't it amazing that our bodies can produce such a miracle (s)?

[QPDoll]

I'm wondering if you'll go sooner than expected since you are off the terb...you're contrax may not have been consistent but it sure seemed like a lot that you posted about!!
Well, so much for not being consistent. They are now predictable - 6 minutes apart. So Im chugging water and hoping they ease off. Been timing for an hour now. I have to wonder if I popped a terb if they would go away, but Its a toss up on what direction I want to go in, if that makes sense.

[sdauer21]

Tina I came in to check on how your appointment went. Looks like I'll be checking in on you a bunch tonight...have you decided what you want to do about contractions? I've had a few bouts of regular contractions - every 3-4 minutes apart for 2-3 hours, but then they've always gone away again (obviously). I'll be very curious to see if our next two August babies are going to be showing up soon... :D

[LeslieR]

Okay, see, 6 minutes apart and 2-3 minutes apart would have me calling the doctor, girls! I mean, how long are you supposed to wait until you're sure you're in labor???? The lamaze instructor told us the other night to head to the hospital when they are 5 minutes apart and 30 (?) seconds long. Why must this be sooooo confusing???

Are we going to have another baby or babies born tomorrow??? :D

[MurphysLaw]

Tina I came in to check on how your appointment went. Looks like I'll be checking in on you a bunch tonight...
DITTO! Have you thought about what you'll do?

:eek:WOW!! More August BABIES Already????:eek:

[tracer]

Tina- great progress and I wil be checking in here often to see how you are. Please keep us updated.

Leslie- honestly I wouldn't run out and buy anything else at this point. Wait until after Luke is born, see if you like them and if they are something you think would be beneficial for you. Everyone likes different things and onesies are great too. As long as the onesie isn't too tight, they will be fine with the cord stump. But if you end up liking the side snap shirts you can always have Sal or a friend run out to get them and wash them for you so they will be ready when you get home. I loved the side snap vs. over the head things because their heads are so fragil and flimsy the first few weeks, it was just easier. We did both types but I prefered the snap ones. Also if I recall correctly, Scotty lost his 3 days after we were home, so it goes fairly quickly.

[LeslieR]

Tracy, thanks for the reply! 3 days after you got home, huh? It seems like it would be a total waste to buy those kinds of t's just for that purpose then. Looks like we'll just stick with the onesies and go from there!

[kmmommy]

Hey girls! I'm an August 2004 mommy.

I just want to wish you all a safe and healthy delivery/c-section. Enjoy it all - even the screaming and sleepless nights. :) My little man is 11 months tomorrow and I have no idea where the time went.

[MurphysLaw]

Where are you Tina?? Do you have an update for us?

[QPDoll]

well, called my OB and she is having me come down to the hospital to check my cervix. Not sure if this is it or not. Im really not looking forward to another one of her finger checks today! Ouch!!! Wish me luck!

[MurphysLaw]

Good Luck Tina!! I hope things aren't too uncomfortable at the hospital & please keep us updated when you can!!:D

[sarahanna115]

Tina :eek: Good luck, girl! *Something* vibes for you...labor or otherwise! ;) Your boys may be the next August babies it looks like!

[Mickey&B]

Ohh my I am gone for a few hours and I come back to find that we may just be welcoming two more August babies!!!

Sara as always you look fabulous! and the ol lady well she's just a trip!

Droping off 35 week belly shots Holy Moly it's something else to see yourself on film :rolleyes:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d935b3127cce92b8f84c5cda00000015108AcsnLZyzZNB

[HollyMN]

I had a doctor's appointment today, still 1 cm, but now 50% effaced. 37.5 weeks. I want to go out of town this weekend, but that would be AMA, probably won't go.

Babysitting my nephews last night - the one year old was trying to climb up me and scale my belly. I'd be sitting, and then he'd climb up my knees into my lap, use my shoulders to pull himself to a stand, then he'd lift a leg and try to put it on top of my belly as a foot rest to climb some more.

The three year old loved my pregnancy books. He would mimic all of the illustrations. He'd be a baby with his mouth open yawning or crying, then he'd be a fetus with his eyes shut and arms out. The funniest was his pushing face.

In the past, we hadn't started our nursery or had anything out. Now that all our baby's stuff is all over the place (and some of their hand-me-downs), they're interested in playing with all our baby shower gifts and playing with the bouncy seat and swing (they are too big!).

I think I had more to say - but we're all tired.... so ... good night.

[leftrightrepeat]

Just updating everyone on this weeks appointment!
My week 37 appt. went well, other than the fact that this heat and humidity is causing my feet to swell like crazy! I'm definitely retaining major fluid. So that obviously caused my blood pressure to go up a little bit (117/68). I'm not freaking out about it though - it was the end of the day, and my swelling was at it's worst. And that blood pressure reading isn't bad, it's just high for me.
Anywho, on to the fun stuff. Caitlyn has finally engaged herself (head DOWN!), and it sitting somewhere between -3 and -2 station. I'm about 50% effaced, and 1cm dilated. So nothing to get super psyched about, but I'm definitely getting there! :D

Oh, and my excitement for the night was that I lost a chunk (quite a bit!) of my mucus plug last night. :D
Granted I think that the only reason it happend was because I had a cervical exam, but I'll take it - especially if it means things are moving along!!!

Have a great day!

[leftrightrepeat]

PS: GOOD LUCK TINA!

Keep us posted!

[Cosmogirl]

Ummmmm it looks like we might have 2 other babies this morning...After what Tina posted, and not having any follow up, I guess she went too!! :D :D

I had my first period of contraction last night. It lasted 3 hours, and nearly got to every 3 minutes,(we have to come when contrax are at 3 minutes apart, and at least 30 seconds long) but then instead of just getting stronger, they started to slow down. :rolleyes: I had it all during this 3 hours, premenstrual cramps coming back and forth, back pain irradiating in my belly, again coming and going, and finally contraction which might have been BH, but really making my whole belly contract. It was the first time I seen those with such a strenght. I had some bouts of contractions during the night, but nothing much. This morning DH was telling me how he thought he had gone down a bit further, but I don't see it(in fact, I feel like my belly looks samller this morning...any explaination for that???) The only thing I feel is that my hips are more painful then a couple of days ago, and now the bathroom trips have begun!...Looking forwards to see what will go on at my next appointment on monday!

It is SO exciting that everybody is making progress!!!! Baies are going to be coming from everywhere soon! :D

Sarah Such cute picture girls!!! And the little lady talk cracked me up!

My family is coming this weekend, since my birthday is monday. It should be fun to have all my family around for my last birthday as "not a mom yet". Weather should be awesome, so we'll def. enjoy the pool. Looks like I'll be checking in though, since we might have 3 babies now on board! :D :p Go Tina!

[michael'sbride]

Holy Cow!

No news from Tina yet? I wonder if that means we could be hearing about two more August babies! Good luck Tina!!!!

[LeslieR]

I had to check in as soon as I woke up. No update from Tina since she went to the hospital, huh? Hmmm...

Meaghan, you sound like you're getting close, too!

Val, I don't know if you're going to make it to Monday!:p

This is so exciting!:D

So, I'm on day I don't know what of no sleep. What if I don't deliver until after my due date? Like a week late on the 15th? Or God forbid 2 weeks late on the 22nd???? :eek: Who can live like this??? I'm calling in again today. I decided yesterday that I'm done with work! I'm taking a vacation day Monday and Tuesday and my dr's appt is Tuesday morning, so I'm going to get my note and not even bother finishing out the week. I just can't function like this. :( Not that I'm upset about work or anything since I'm not returning anyway!!!!! SAHM here I come!:D

[LeslieR]

No update on LJ from Tina either. :confused: Way to keep us crazed pregnant women in suspense!!! lol Good luck Tina!

[LILRTL]

OMG!!!! And she knows how impatient we all are!!!!! :p :D

[michael'sbride]

It looks like this falls into the capable hands of Carla and Val! You ladies keep us updated on anything you hear from Tina!

So Excited!

[sarahanna115]

NO UPDATE this am?? OMG, today is going to be long again. GOOD LUCK, TINA!

Val I bet you will be next in line! Maybe this weekend?!

[L-O-V-E]

Oh, I am SO excited to hear about everyone's progress and the impending debuts of more babies!!!! :D :D :D

Michelle - Great looking belly you've got there!

[L-O-V-E]

I found these quotes on babies and such and thought I'd share... I think the last one is dead on!

Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body. ~Elizabeth Stone

The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new. ~Rajneesh

By far the most common craving of pregnant women is not to be pregnant. ~Phyllis Diller

Boy, n.: a noise with dirt on it. ~Not Your Average Dictionary

Children seldom misquote. In fact, they usually repeat word for word what you shouldn't have said. ~Author Unknown

If pregnancy were a book they would cut the last two chapters. ~Nora Ephron, Heartburn, 1983

[tracer]

Wow it looks like we have quite a few babies that are close to making their appearance! Good luck ladies and how exciting! I can't wait to hear from or about Tina.

[alex67]

Wishing Tina the best of luck!! I can't wait to hear an update regarding her.

I cannot believe how quickly things are moving now. With my due date of Aug 28th, I might end up being the last one of us to deliver!

[August'05Mommies]

Okay, ladies, we should be updated to here. I had to move a lot of stuff around, so your belly shots and u/s pics might be on the 2nd page now depending where you are in the alphabet. Please let me know if I missed anyone!

Thanks,
Leslie

[August'05Mommies]

Oops, I forgot one other thing! Janet, I know you're not around and probably won't have time to check in, but if you see this-let us know if you want us to put a pic of Anders on the first page. Thanks!

[LILRTL]

Alright, ladies. I need help. :p After calling this child by one name since we found out he was a boy, we just aren't sure if it is *the one*. So any good websites (not where I have to go through 5 million names - we prefer semi-common), recommend away!!!!!

[sarahanna115]

Michelle You have a great belly!! You look great, girl!

Alex I am due the 20th and my mom said all 3 of hers were 2 weeks late, so I may be the last to deliver if I'm anything like her. :( Hope not! I hope we all go sooner than expected, the quicker the better, eh??

Lora I always liked www.babynamesworld.com the best!

[LeslieR]

Lora, what??? You're not sure? I love the name you picked!

[LILRTL]

We're just not 100% :(

[L-O-V-E]

Lora - I'm wavering on the name that we have picked out too. It's the only first name that we ever really discussed, and now I'm just scared that I'll regret it a few months/years down the line. I think it's a huge responsibility to name someone! I mean, they're stuck for life!

Of course we still haven't solved our middle name dilemma - we both want the middle name after our own father. I think we're going to call in the lawyers for negotiations, soon! If I give in, he already told me I get full naming rights on the second baby. Maybe I'll hold out until the stakes get a little higher before giving in - maybe he'll throw in some jewelry! :)

[snowzilla]

Wow, this thread really moved this morning! I've been up since 4:30 am - the worst insomnia ever. At 5 I finally gave up on sleep, and came out to the couch, hoping that a little tv would help me doze off, but it didn't. :( I surfed the boards, and of course, nobody was really on yet. Still no news from Tina, either through here, LJ, or email - I'll be checking my email all day and keeping my phone close, just in case!

[LeslieR]

lmao Lori! Jewelry works for me, too! :p

[LeslieR]

Ugh, Carla, insomnia is the worst! It seems to be a theme around here that none of us are sleeping well. Is anyone getting a good night's sleep??? What's your secret? :p

[alex67]

I am another who is NOT getting sleep at night. I flip back and forth all night long from one side to the other with a body pillow between my legs but still my stomach muscles & uterus are so sore. It really is getting painful. I'm thinking of trying to sleep in the recliner.

[LeslieR]

Alex, I would totally sleep in a recliner if I had one! I've been thinking about sleeping on our futon because it is lower to the ground than our bed, but it's also further away from the bathroom than our bed. :rolleyes:

[LILRTL]

No sleep here either! SUCKS. SO. BAD.

[sdauer21]

I FINALLY got some sleep last night and now feel like I've been run over by a mac truck! Damned if you do, damned if you don't! :rolleyes:

I was hoping to see news from Tina Hoping she's happy with whatever is going on!!! I'm guessing we're going to have two more August babies! YEA!!!! :)

Not much to report here. Like I said, I feel like I'm getting the flu. I'm going to drop Tallie off at the sitter's, feel like a terrible mom for not going with her on her "field trip" to the science center, and come back home to sleep a bit. Its getting hotter here, and my hands and feet are already very sausage like. I think I need to drink more water today!

Hope everyone is feeling pretty good!! BBL -
Sonya

[Daniel's Kitty]

Sleep? I got some this morning.

I hope we hear something today or tomorrow.

I won't be online a whole lot for a while. Especially today. We have someone moving in with us for a while. I have to clean out a room today for her. I will be so tired, even though I plan on taking a lot of breaks. I started to notice contrax yesterday. I am in the mood to be lazy, but I am sure she would like a room to sleep in once we track down a bed. She is really sweet and helpful though. Our house will be a zoo though, with her dog, guinea pig and turtles, and our dog and cat. Oh well. I would hate to have a friend be homeless and she had a couple of days before she would be. She tried one of the local shelters but they have a 12 day waiting list. And she did not want to be living "under a bridge".

1 Month to GO!!!

[tracer]

Lora- We did the same thing with Scotty. He was to be name Zachary all the way up until 3 weeks before he was born. We then started to debate it and he ended up with Scott, which is what my parents were going to name me had I been a boy. When I was in labor, I told Matt he could decide once the baby was born. Also he didn't look like a Zach afterall. So this time we have picked out 2 names, either Tyler or Nathan and will wait to see what he looks like until he is given his offical name. Good luck on picking a name.

[LILRTL]

Tracy Glad I'm not the only one!! :D

[shellbell516]

Kat - You're a great friend! That's terrible that she's going through something that would put her on the street right now. I hope it all works out for you all be roomies for a while.


I hate waiting to find out about Tina.

Kim and Lora - I've got your numbers in my cell phone, so I'll be calling as soon as something starts to happen.

I have my doctor's appt this afternoon at 3:30. I know they said that they don't do internals until 39 weeks, but I almost want to know if anything is going on down there.

[LILRTL]

You're in mine, too, Michelle!! Hope you get some good news! :D

[Mickey&B]

I hope that no news from Tina means good news!!

sleep last night was the first night in weeks that I didn't have to fight off the insomnia, and I didn't even wake up to go to the bathroom. Athough I did wake up to some more jabbing pains in my pelvic area :confused: and DH decided that he wanted to snuggle up to me in the middle of the night and let me tell you at 9 months and in the middle of a heat wave this pregnant lady wasn't hav'n it! (I kinda feel bad for him this morning) I yelled at him last night to "get off of me" and he only replied "I'm sorry" I'll have to apologize tonight when he gets home :o

Ohh our shower is tomorrow and can I tell you how excited I am, I have tried not to buy anthing for the baby because I didn't know what I would really need, and I can't wait to get everything in the nursery situated!

[shellbell516]

Michelle - Phillip has giving up on snuggling with me at night a long time ago. Now I find him snuggling up to a pillow. :p He's told me the times that he's tried, he'll touch me and I'll be all sweaty. That's one way to keep him off. My problem is that I start out with covers and not realize I'm hot enough to take them off me.

[LILRTL]

I just noticed that we are the largest group thread! Most people have around 200 posts in theirs - we have 1,000+ here!!! Crazy!!!

[myhoney]

We have our shower tomorrow, too! I'm excited, but mom and sis are ticking me off. Doesn't everyone have some distant family members that they are just not close to? Not like you don't speak to them, but kind of don't care how often you see them? I made a comment about two cousins last month regarding another person's shower, and how I didn't really mind missing that shower cause I didn't need 3 hours of chitchat with said cousins. Now mom and sis informed me that they made sure to put cousins A&B at the table furthest from me. :confused: I don't hate them, I'm not avoiding them, but to hear it from sis, there's a big unresolved issue . :rolleyes: DH succinctly said if they bring a present, he'll talk to anyone! Meanwhile, sis is sitting next to cousin C, and she says to me "like I need to talk to her all day". Um, hello, is there an issue ? ;) Is that not the same comment I made last month about the other two? I'll have to find a reason soon to bring up her big problem with cousin C.

Sorry, just peeved. Call me a bad person, but I don't love everyone. And while I can have nice conversations with anyone, it doesn't mean I enjoy them. That sounds bad, but that's me today. Grrrrr.

[LeslieR]

Jeez, I'm not getting replies. I knew that there was no way no one was posting. lol

They are working on the townhouses in our complex this week (replacing old planks of wood and not) and I think today is our turn. I have some dudes outside my windows on ladders banging away. :eek: My poor cat. Thank God we have heavy drapes in the living room cuz I don't look too cute right now. lol I've been at the kitchen table for the past hour sorting wedding pictures and scrapbooking supplies. Why I thought that would be a fun thing to do today, I have no idea. It's that damn scrapbooking thread here! aRgh!

Michelle, I am so jealous of your sleep last night! And you didn't have to get up to go to the bathroom???? Jealous, jealous, jealous.

Shell, good luck at your appt!

Tracy, I love both those names. I had suggested Nathanial to Sal once upon a time, but he turned his nose up at it. :rolleyes:

Kat, what a great friend you are! I don't think I could deal with a roommate at this point in time-especially one with animals. lol

Sonya, I hope you're not getting the flu! Drink lots of fluids!!!

[kerbahr]

Well, we had our last u/s today! Did the NST too, everything looks good! Baby is getting big though! I know an u/s can be off by about 20%, but baby was measuring 8lbs 1oz already! And I have 3 1/2 weeks to go!!! Yikes!

Dr. was SO busy and after we were already there for an hour he didn't do the GBS test or an internal exam. Guess that will be next week! Yipee... :rolleyes:

Hope everyone is well!

[Mentul77]

Our house will be a zoo though, with her dog, guinea pig and turtles, and our dog and cat. Oh well. I would hate to have a friend be homeless and she had a couple of days before she would be.


I am just a lurker here as I am not pg but I couldn't let this slip by. You will want to be very careful having turtles in the house, especially if they are small ones. They have been linked to salmonella.

Here are some articles:
medicinenet.com (http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=46217)
webmd (http://my.webmd.com/content/article/101/106498.htm)

HTH

[LeslieR]

Keri, Join the big baby mama club! :p Someone actually had the nerve to say this to me the other day:

"You know, they say that the baby gains a pound a week for the last month. I can't imagine you having an 11lbs baby. "

Um, me either! lol She's a good friend, so I wasn't offended, but, dang, I didn't need the reminder! I'm just hoping that the u/s was off by a pound or so!

[Cosmogirl]

I was just passing by to see if there was any updates on Tina...No news=good news!
Lora We aren,t sure about names either. We have 2 picked out, and we'll decide when we'll see him for the first time. Good luck with that. This naming thing is taking a bigger proportion then I thought for us...we still really don't know!

ETA: If someone tells me once more that I have a small belly, I'm going to kick asses! I know my belly is small, but what the hell can I do!
Anyone with comforting word for someone with a small belly??? I'm starting to be scared that baby won't be fine :(

[LILRTL]

I thought the baby gained a HALF a pound a week in the last month. :confused:

[LeslieR]

Val, your baby is fine! Don't let what anyone says get to you. Everyone carries differently. I don't know what's worse-hearing "you're small" or hearing "you're huge". :rolleyes:

Lora, I've heard both. Who knows. All babies are different, right? The only thing I do know for sure is that at this point, the baby has stopped developing and is just putting on fat. I guess how much fat is the question? lol

[myhoney]

Val, are you tall? I'm 6', and I was getting a lot of the "you're too small" comments. My doctor said tall girls hide their bellies better because the torso is longer. I started responding to people that said I was small with Oh, it's because I'm tall. And they'd nod and drop the subject. I've found people get confused with height, so if you can, use it to your advantage. When people would ask me how tall I was, if I said 6', they'd all gasp. (didn't help my self-esteem and feeling like an ogre!) But, if I said 5'11", they'd tell me that I wasn't so tall. I used to joke with my close friends that I was going to tell people I was 5'12"! I think hearing the 6 first threw them off.

I'm a rambler, aren't I?

[Cosmogirl]

Julie I'm 5'10 (nearly 11) and I have a long torso. I guess he has tons of space to hide in there, and I'm supposed to have a 7 lbs baby, so he isn't big either. But it just gets annoying, or should I say stressing out to hear, wow, you are so small, like Leslie says, it is as frustrating as hearing wow, you are so big. People all looks like they are making a jugement on my baby's health (he is small, so...)
I've also been using the tall explanation, but I guess that I'm just starting to be really sensitive about it, and as I mentionned earlier, this morning, I was under the impression that my belly was smaller...?!?!? :confused:
Thanks to both of you for reassurance though, I kinda needed it!

[LILRTL]

I can't believe we still don't have word from Tina!!!

[HollyMN]

So exciting to have our first baby here. I'm due at the beginning of the month, but I always "just knew" I wouldn't be first.

37.5 weeks and I am starting to get uncomfortable. As of last night, I have this weird pelvis discomfort/pain going on. Last night I was sitting at the computer reading this and other threads, and after a few hours of sitting, I was in unbelievable discomfort in my crotch just from standing up. I felt like I had molded to the chair or something and was stuck that way and it didn't work to stand up. It's not as bad today, but I still feel some pelvis stuff here and there, so I don't have hope it's going away, I am just happy that it's intermittent and not constant and sometimes mild enough to ignore. I have been using the red exercise ball at work, and am going to buy one tonight to use at home. Maybe I can surf the web while sitting on that and it will feel better down there.

I went on the treadmill to "jog" yesterday, but at this point it's as much about being able to say I did it as anything. My jogging speed is now my pre-pregnancy walking speed. At this point, I can't just walk and walk anymore. Even when I'm doing fine cardiovascularly, my feet get so sore from carrying these 42 extra pounds and they've become the limiting factor.

This pregnancy feels like it's sort of a window into what it must feel like to get old. All the aches and pains, new ones and old ones. I can't imagine what my grandparents must feel like. But mentally pregnancy isn't bad for me because I know in two weeks or more I'll be on my way to recovery. I can't imagine being old and feeling like this and no hope the aches and pains will ever go away before I die.

I still want to wait to have the baby until my due date though or after for many other reasons. Even with the discomfort, I am envisioning what my crotch will feel like after a vaginal birth and what my boobs will feel like after first breastfeeding and I'm not ready to trade that discomfort for this discomfort yet.

[tracer]

I'm 5'5" and have a long torso. I am all belly and carry out front. Most people are amazed that I am as far along as I am because he is in my back area too.

Question~When I was laying down earlier baby boy had the hiccups. I felt them in my low, low back/high butt area. Do you think he is anterior (face back) and not posterior (sunny side up)? Those are the right words aren't they??? It was the weirdest feeling.

Also...help...I have all of a sudden decided I must have a new diaper bag. We have about 7 but I want a new one, go figure. We recently bought the day tripper from Lands End and love it. But where ever Scotty goes it will go with him, so I can't use it for both. I need something big enough for both of their stuff but something not huge, I am a minimalist on what I carry. I think the Lands End All-in-one (or whatever the heck it is called) is too big for me....any suggestions?

[leftrightrepeat]

I was REALLY hoping we'd hear something from Tina by now!!! Yeeks, I'm getting so excited!!

[adore_one]

Tracy look at bumblebags.com (http://www.bumblebags.com) - they are sooo cute, and I have only heard great raves about them. There is a site called www.mylittleducks.com that specializes in boy clothes and they have a ton of diaper bags. The owner has become sort of an email/business friend of mine and she is AWESOME - ships super fast too!!!! I will be selling my Flueville Slingtote in Gold Flower here this week. I just think it is too small for me - BUT I am a HEAVY packer!!!!! I also just got the Timi&Leslie backpack and I looooooove it! So that is another option. - yes I am a diaper bag sl**

Yeah Tina isn't posting....not online....sending all the good vibes your way lady!!!! Happy healthy babies we want to meet you! Come out and play!!!

So I had my Doctor appointment this morning - She checked my cervix - ummm it is REALLY CLOSED she said. So no baby for me anytime soon :( Also said I could take Pepcid - so I took one after the appointment. My HB is gone, but my tummy hurts a bit. Is that normal?

[kerbahr]

Yikes, 1 pound per week! That means I'll have an 11 pounder too! Good lord! I would be happy to join the big baby mama club though (thanks, Leslie)! Besides, everybody loves a chubby baby.... right? :D

I have actually heard both 1 pound per week and 1/2 pound... Who knows :rolleyes: I think it's always different, plus, U/Ss are not always accurate either...

Val - I agree with what everybody else has said as far as bellies go. I am only about 5'9" and my belly isn't that big either. And as I just found out today, our baby is growing just fine! I have a friend who is close to 6' tall and she didn't even look pregnant until right before she delivered... I wouldn't worry too much.

[snowzilla]

I have been checking my email regularly, but still no word from Tina or her family. I'm continuing to send all of my healthy baby vibes her way! :)

I'm 5'11" tall, and I feel like I'm personally not carrying that big, due to my height - but that hasn't stopped the comments! "OMG, you're getting so BIG!" :rolleyes: Actually, come to think of it, people have been pretty nice - if anything, they comment on the size of my belly, and then say that I don't look pregnant anywhere else. That's got to mean I'm looking good, right? I've gotten lots of compliments about my pregnancy "glow", too. :)

[LILRTL]

Good gracious! We're all in here again!!! Who are Tina's contacts? She had just talked in her LJ about making a phone post. Hmph. Hope all is well with her and her boys!!!

[Cosmogirl]

Tracy I'm a minimalist too as far as bag and stuff!
I've bought the LL bean bag...Love it so far, it isn't too big, and doesn,t look bulky (well for me). Maybe a skip hop???

ETA: wow everybody posted at the same time!
Thanks girls for your comments on my belly size, I really needed that today! I don't really care about the size of the baby as long as he is healthy, that is my only concern. But I guess tall people really are able to hide their little ones well! ;)

[LeslieR]

So, do you think the fact that we haven't heard from Tina yet means that she is in fact at the hospital? According to her last post, she was heading to the hospital last night to get checked. Is it safe to assume she may have already had the babies since her and her dr agreed at her appt yesterday to the c-section? Ack-I'm going nuts over here wondering about her!

[MurphysLaw]

Popping in for a brief moment...wanted to see if we had any word on the Tina & the boys but I guess not!:( Sending good vibes her way!!

Hope everyone is enjoying their Friday, I'm still sleeping shitty and I'm in a grumpy mood...I have errands to run so I'll be back later on sometime.

And WOW do we have some tall gals in here!! I'm only 5' and that's on a good day with shoes! Maybe that's why everyone things I look like I'm about to explode.:rolleyes:

Hugs all!

[michael'sbride]

Tracy It sounds like he's definatly anterior. Evan is anterior but his head is turned to the right so when he gets the hiccups I always feel them in my right hip. If your little one was sunny side up he would never be able to turn his neck around to hiccup in your back! Sounds like good news to me!

We have about 5 diaper bags from Drew and I got a new one for Evan. I ordered a black toile to match my DuoGlider but I wanted a Kecci so bad. I'm going to wait a few months and get one...I just love them to death.

That's all I have time for! Dang it!

[leftrightrepeat]

Is it bad when you're sitting at your desk, hitting the refresh button for this page, hoping someone will post about Tina and her boys.. ;)

As for the diaper bags, I recieved the Vera Bradley diaper bag as a gift for my shower, and then I have a smaller one (black) bought at BRU. I'm fully intending to have to buy more diaper bags once the little princess is here, depending on her needs.

Hope everyone is having a great Friday! :)

[Cosmogirl]

Leslie
Yeah, I personally I do think she is there (or at least I hope!), and that would be the most obvisous reason why she didn't post. Well, I do hope everything is fine for her and the boys and that she did deliver!

[sdauer21]

Just popping in to check for news...nada, eh?! I'll be back in a bit, then! :)

[Red'sGirl]

Tracy It does sound like baby is anterior and not posterior. BUT, I can't tell if that's worrying you. It shouldn't. Baby is in correct position if he's anterior (facing your back) and not anterior (facing sunny side up).

I had my 37 wk appt today. Dh came with. My Dr. actually talked with me for about 5 mins. It's the most she's talked with us during this pregnancy. :eek: Anyhow, she didn't tell us anything. We asked about size, but she gave the standard answer of "she looks right on schedule - probably about 7lbs." Mind you, she wasnt' looking at me when she said it, but was writing in my chart. She did say that she wouldn't do an internal until 40 weeks, and wouldn't let me go more than a week past my due date.

She also mentioned that she wasn't on call for the next few weekends, so I might get one of the other two doctors. One I've met and really like (I have an appt with her next week because mine is out of town), but the other Dr. I don't think I've ever seen! I just talked with my sister, who also goes to my Dr., and she doesn't remember ever seeing or meeting this woman either. Having her deliver me will NOT make me happy. :mad:

BTW, last night at 11pm, DH got a chance to see the girl in action, as she apparently had a party in my uterus. He was amazed (appalled) at all the sharp movements. NOW he understands why I keep calling him at work, complaining about movement. he just kept stroking my stomach, trying to get her to calm down. Ugh.

sleep? Uh, no. Last night was pretty good as I slept until 5, IN BED, sitting up. When I did wake up, BOY did I have to pee! But that's the best lump of sleep I've had in weeks.

[tracer]

Thank you all for your rec's on diaper bags. I hope all is ok with Tina, the not knowing is driving me crazy! :p

[michael'sbride]

I just thought it was interesting to note that Tina's EDD is listed as 7/14 and wouldn't you know it, her last post was 10:34 on 7/14!! How cool!

QOTD Is anyone having problems with their clothes fitting? My belly is so big that my pants ride below and my shirts are not long enough anymore to cover the belly. This is bad for me because when i'm walking my belly pop's out and let me tell y'all, it's not a very pretty belly, what with the stretch marks and PUPPPs rash. I'm so annoyed by this!

[LILRTL]

QOTD Is anyone having problems with their clothes fitting? My belly is so big that my pants ride below and my shirts are not long enough anymore to cover the belly.

YES. And it's driving me nuts. It makes me not want to leave the house!!

________________________________________________

That *IS* neat that Tina could have had her babies on her due date!!! More than likely the day after, but still! Hope she is doing well!!!

[tracer]

Me too Melissa! I remember this happening last time too. None of my cute clothes fit anymore and the shirts that still fit seem to be too short and you can see the waste of my shorts or my belly poppin'. I just wanna run around naked! ya right...LMAO!

Also, this was talked about a few pages back, I believe babies est. gaining 1/2 a lb per week at 36 weeks until birth. I think 1 lb is a high.

[tracer]

I just noticed under my user name that I am now 'way to cool' instead of 'too cool to care'!!!! Interesting huh?

[LeslieR]

So, she is actually past her due date. And to think we were worried she wouldn't make it that far! Go Tina!

I have a couple tops for work that are definitely too tight to wear anymore, but my belly is not peeking out yet. OTOH, my belly is totally peeking out of the tank tops I wear to bed at night. I usually wake up with them all bunched around my boobs. :rolleyes:

[LILRTL]

Would it be bad if I hired someone to knock ME out? You know - like a personal hitman, but not to kill me? :p I just want sleep. I lay in the bed, and my mind races with the 5 million things we still have to do. I get up to do them and I'm a Z-O-M-B-I-E. And we have our shower tomorrow. THAT'S going to be fun, when I can barely hold my eyes open. :rolleyes: Could I whine any more?!!?!?

[LeslieR]

Lora, don't worry about whining-we're all right there with you. Maybe try taking some Benadryl tonight? It should at least give you a good 4 hour stretch of sleep. I was going to take some last night, but I didn't feel like looking for it. :rolleyes:

[michael'sbride]

I am SO taking Benedryl tonight. I'm allowed to take it as a last resort for my itching and i've limited myself to once a week. Tonight's the night! I remember back when that comment that meant something totally different! LOL!

Tracy You're "Way too Cool" now because you have over 100 posts!

[myhoney]

Yay! I just had a client tell me how small I was. She point blank asked me how much I'd gained, and when I told her 25 lbs, she and her friend just gave me a once over and asked "where??" I love them! I hope they come in every day for the next 6 weeks!

[QPDoll]

Just stopping in quick - I need to go sleep.

I had progressed since my doctors appointment yesterday - to 3cm dilated and 60% effaced, station -2. Contractions were steady 4 min apart, strong and painful. But then I stopped progressing very late last night, so they sent me home this afternoon.

Need to go sleep before I get keyboard keys embedded in my forehead.

[LeslieR]

Damn! I thought for sure something was happening for you, Tina! Yay for more progress at least. It shouldn't be too much longer now. Get some rest!

[hope0805]

Isn't it weird how some people think you are small and others think you are huge? I've had people say things ranging from "you look like you are going to drop that baby on the floor right here right now" to, "you can't be more than 6 months pregnant with that belly"! I was actually in court today -- first time since PG (even though I really am a lawyer) -- at an admission ceremony, and the woman standing next to me asked my due date and when I said 8/17 responded "no way, you are tiny to be due so soon!" Made my day, I tell you, particularly since it was quite a challenge stuffing myself into some semblance of a suit with this humongo belly I am carrying around.

I want to know so badly what is going on with Tina and her boys! I wish we would hear something, but I guess she has more important things to worry about right now than silly old us.

I think I've come to peace with the whole idea of the baby being transverse. If the doctor was wrong, or if he turns, great, and if not, then I will have a scheduled c-section (or a non-scheduled one on the off chance I go into labor early, but at least it will be expected) and will make the best of it. I don't think I can possibly anticipate what recovery from either one is going to be like, and both seem to have their upsides and their downsides, so I am just going to take it as it comes. Oh, and the weirdest thing yet: I have had the exact same pregnancy as my mom did with me so far (no morning sickness, not a huge weight gain, generally feeling good, baby due in mid-August -- although I was born early on 7/23 -- etc.) and when I was talking to her yesterday about the baby's position, she told me I was transverse when she went into labor (they didn't know in advance b/c there were no ultrasounds) and that I turned and just needed a little tug with the forceps to make it out. Talk about strange!

[LILRTL]

Oh, Tina...bless your heart!! I don't even know what to say. I hope you aren't disappointed, but I know I would be. Get some rest!!

[michael'sbride]

Tina Hang in there sweetie! Its almost over and you're doing such an awesome job baking those two boys. Get some rest!!!

[snowzilla]

D'awwwww, Tina. Thank you for stopping by in spite of how incredibly exhausted you must be. :) We've all been thinking about you (as the pages of posts will prove!). Glad to hear everything is okay though. :)

[hope0805]

Oh, Tina, we cross-posted. Sorry to hear this wasn't it. We're all thinking about you!

[myhoney]

Rest up, Tina, it probably won't be too much longer! Good luck this weekend!

[gardenmommy]

Tina~ So glad to hear all is well with you, but bummed you had to be sent home. Take a giant nap and rest up...something tells me your boys will arrive any time now.

Well today is my last day at work and it would take a semi-truck to wipe the smile off my face. I'm so thrilled!! :D I just can't wait to have a few days to rest up, finish things at home and get all nested. I'm also a bit conflicted though since I love what I do and most of the people I work with...it'll be hard to leave, but I'm so exicted at the same time.

I stopped by the paper store downtown yesterday to get ideas for our baby announcements and got so excited, whic leads me to my...QOTD~What (if anything) are you all doing for your baby announcements?? Care to share??

Well I finally got some pics scanned and uploaded so is it too late to post a belly pic??

This is a pic of DH and I a few weeks after we got our BFP and found out we were going to be parents...we were just so happy!
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d934b3127cce92826b41442400000016108QbsmzhsyaM

And this a belly pic of me and my little bean last weekend at about...ummm...36 weeks and 20 lbs gained...No jokes about my translucent white belly ok?
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d934b3127cce92826b4cc51900000015108QbsmzhsyaM

Well after today I'll be posting a little less since our internet is limited at home...but I'll still be here and reading along as much as possible and cheering us all to the end! Hope you all have a great weekend!

[LeslieR]

Jennifer, you look gorgeous! I don't think I've ever seen pics of you before.

Announcements, I had posted some that I liked in my WC journal and I don't think I saved the link to the site. Let me see what I can find...

[LeslieR]

I definitely want announcements with pictures, but I've seen some cute ones that make me think about just enclosing a wallet size pic.

http://www.storkavenue.com/images_lg/3830CA.jpg

http://www.storkavenue.com/images_lg/4046CA.jpg

http://www.storkavenue.com/images_lg/4063CA.JPG

http://www.storkavenue.com/images_lg/4086CA.jpg

Sal would flip for these:
http://www.storkavenue.com/images_lg/2432CD.jpg

http://www.storkavenue.com/images_lg/4061CA.jpg

www.storkavenue.com

[LeslieR]

cont'd:

http://www.storkavenue.com/images_lg/4020CA.jpg

http://www.storkavenue.com/images_lg/4446CA.jpg

http://www.storkavenue.com/images_lg/3325CA.jpg

www.preciousyou.com

http://www.preciousyou.cceasy.com/order/pics/EasiestWeddingPics/Dealer/1726065026lr.jpg

http://www.preciousyou.cceasy.com/order/pics/EasiestWeddingPics/Dealer/1726065030lr.jpg

http://www.preciousyou.cceasy.com/order/pics/EasiestWeddingPics/Dealer/8512lr.jpg

[sdauer21]

Tina You sound exhausted! :( I'm sorry you got sent home...I'm sure it was quite the let down. Hopefully, you are getting some well deserved sleep right now, and those boys will come when you are ready for them!

[L-O-V-E]

Melissa - Yup, my belly is definitely a little drafty these days. My pants just don't want to stay up and my tops aren't long enough to cover everything, so sometimes a little skin peaks out. Oh well. Not about to go buy bigger clothes now!

Tina - You poor thing! Thanks for coming and keeping us posted. Hope you're resting up now. I have a feeling your boys will be making their grand entrances very very soon!

Jennifer - You look beautiful!! What a great shot of you and DH, and of your belly. I don't think I've seen a pic of you before either! I love finally having a face to go with the name! :)

Announcements - I think I'm going with www.inababycarriage.com. Maybe this one...
http://www.inababycarriage.com/designs/boys/images/photocollage4.jpg

I also like www.naptimecards.com

Ok ladies. Husband just got home from work. Off to dinner... gotta take advantage of these free nights while we can! :)

[adore_one]

Oh Tina - bless your heart. I know the boys will be coming out to play soon. Sorry you got sent home.

announcements. I am going with www.inababycarriage.com as well. They actually did my shower invites and thank yous to match this design:
http://www.inababycarriage.com/designs/boys/images/dotsgalore.jpg

They are super cute.

So work thru me a shower today - that was super nice of them. I am going to have to make up little presents for the hostesses this weekend for them.

I am still a bit down about the doc appointment and my cervix not being soft AT ALL! I think I will have to work on some natural induction methods now. I was worried and made DH hold off but now that I know we are not even close we are going to have to get to work...after the nursery is done ;)

[Mickey&B]

Oh Tina, glad your making progress, sorry you got sent home! get some rest while you can!!

Baby Anouncements I was thinking about going with www.inababycarriage.com as well I just can't decide which one I like the most they are all so cute!:rolleyes:

off to get my last hostess gift!!

[Weddings by]

Tina! I found you! I heard from Carla that "stuff" is going on. Remember to feel free to call me if you need/want/feel you need anything, OK? I'm not that far away, and Matt can watch the kids. Just an offer if it's wanted.

[shellbell516]

Tina - Sorry it didn't happen for you yet. Hopefully it won't be long now.


Dr. appt update - I tested positive for the GBS, so I get the antibiotics before delivery. I'm not too worried about it. I've gained 3 lbs since last week, but I'm also starting to swell some. BP was 102/70 and Rachel's heartrate was in the 130s. I'm now measuring 2 weeks small at 35 weeks. I asked if she thinks that I'll go overdue since I'm measuring small and she said that it only means that I'll have a small baby. I also asked about how long they'll wait before they induce me if I go overdue. She said they won't do anything until 41 weeks and then they'll schedule me to be induced. They won't let me go over 42 weeks. God I hope not! I'll be just plain miserable!!

She didn't do the internal exam and said they won't unless I'm having some problems.

My next appt is Friday 7/22/05 at 9:50 am.

I'm starting to think that I should buy a premie outfit or two for the take home outfit. The one that I have is the newborn size and what if it's too big? I don't want her drowning in it.

[tracer]

Our internet is down and they said it could be a week until it is up again. Sooo, I will try to check my e-mail at my sisters every other night to stay in touch. I will give Melissa my phone number in case somehting happens so I can KIT. Everyone take care and I will really miss you all until this issue is fixed. :( No one go into labor ok!!

Tina-glad you are doing well, take care of yourself.

[Mickey&B]

Okay it's way to early to be up it's about 5 am on Saturday!!! but so much for being able to sleep yesterday was just a fluk!
but I woke up with more stabing pain in my pelvis, I feel like I am breaking in two, could it just be that my bones are seperating? It seriously feels like something snapped in my upper left leg, I can hardly move it :( It even hurts just to walk, my baby shower is today so I can just see myself hobbling around and everyone making a comment :( I took tylenol last night before I went to bed but it offered no relief. Is this normal? anyone else felt this?

[LeslieR]

Michelle, yikes! I seem to only have that pain when I roll over. Do you feel like the baby dropped? I'm sorry about the lack of sleep. :(

Tracy, ugh, that sucks!!! I hate when our internet is down. But, a week??? WTF!

Shell, sorry about the +GBS. :( Have you checked out the coming home outfit thread? A lot of moms in there have said that their outfits were huge on their 7lb babies. I don't know how big the preemie outfits run, but it might be a good idea?

I can't believe it, but I got a GREAT night's sleep last night! I think I only got up 3 times to pee-which is a miracle for me. We have that wedding to go to tonight so I'm going to run out get myself a pedicure and maybe a manicure, too! Sal's bday is Monday, so I have to go buy his bday cards, too. And then I need to come home and keep my feet up so that they're not too swollen tonight. :rolleyes:

[shellbell516]

I had the worst night sleep last night. I woke up to pee at 2:30, 3:30 and 4:15 am. After that I could not sleep anymore because Rachel was running a marathon in there or something. I couldn't decide if I was feeling pains or if she was just moving too much or if I was hungry, so I went downstairs and ate a small bowl of cereal. I laid on the couch and watched tv for a while until Rachel finally stopped moving and I could fall asleep. Thank god today is Saturday, so I've been able to just lay around for awhile.

Leslie - Yes, I saw that thread about the take home outfits. I guess that's what has got me second guessing what I want to use.

My plans today are to get everything together for the diaper bag that my mom is bringing tomorrow. I need to print out that list that was posted a while back. I still need to wash all the small size outfits. I did 2 loads of laundry the other night just of blankets, sheets, and burp cloths.

[LeslieR]

Isn't it amazing how much laundry you can do for these little ones? Just washing blankets and clothes and what not, I've probably done abour 4 or 5 loads of laundry!!! The good thing is-it's all done now and in the future it should only be dirties that I'm washing.

That thread even had me second guessing the size of the clothes I packed for Luke! The Pooh outfit I packed says "One size". WTF does that mean??? I've already figured out that if he's as big as we think he's going to be, the newborn Swaddlers we bought are going to be a waste (I opened the package like a dummy). Wait and see, I might be offering them up on here at some point. lol

QOTD, have you installed your car seats yet?

I'm so excited-we're going over to Sal's parents' house tomorrow for his bday and he and his brother are going to attempt to install the bases in our cars. Yay!!! It will be so nice to have this enormous travel system box out of our living room! :p

[tracer]

Yay our internet is up, something about a downage in the area...you're right Leslie, WTF!!! We still have a tech coming out next Sat to look at things. Hopefully it stays up so I can keep up with everything.

I am sorry for those of you who aren't getting much rest. I hope it gets better.

[shellbell516]

QOTD, have you installed your car seats yet? - No, not yet.

QOTD2 - Does anyone with pets notice them acting differently towards you now?

My female cat has to be near me all the time now. She has to lay close up to me at night and it drives me crazy. I just want my space.

[alex67]

Coming Home Outfit - This is what we did have picked out from Children's Place in size 0-3mo:
http://www.childrensplace.com/www/b/TCP/images/styles/309303_m.jpg
It is really wide and long so I just know it is going to swallow him.

I went back just last night looking for something smaller and picked out this also in 0-3mo but it is MUCH narrower and a tad shorter:
http://www.childrensplace.com/www/b/TCP/images/styles/325622_m.jpg
We also purchased the matching pants in case he needs it for warmth:
http://www.childrensplace.com/www/b/TCP/images/styles/325937_m.jpg
I love the polo style and we will pair it with a light blue cap and socks.

Car Seat Installed - not yet. I was going to do it around 36 weeks which is still 2 weeks away for me.

Pets - We have a 4 yr old yellow lab who IS acting differently. She wants to be in my lap often and lay her head on my belly. She will kiss (lick) my belly too if I have my shirt up. I let her in the nursery from time to time to smell everything. She is very curious as to all the different items & smells in there.

[Sarah]

Hi ladies!
Having some contractions pretty close together, but I am not sure it's the real thing. I will come back and update if the MW thinks I should come in. Cross your fingers! (Oh, and I am 36 w 1 d)

[Mickey&B]

Leslie No I don't think the baby has dropped at all I still feel his kicks in the same place right under my ribs. this pain is horrid though I have been sitting on my exer ball and doing pelvic circles as much as they hurt but I think it's starting to feel better :confused: have fun at the wedding!

Sarah Ohh I'll keep my fingers crossed for ya. Keep us updated you know how impatient we can be in here :p

Going home outfit I am hoping that we get some small outfits today for our baby shower so I don't have to go out and by a premie outfit but well see.

Animals I have to rottweiler mixes and they have been acting strange for months! the older one is now really becoming dominate over the younger one They have really been needing a lot of attention, wanting to be right next to us, in bed with us, more so the younger one I was just wondering the other night do they know that life is about to change for them? and I wonder how they will adjust, they have both been our babies, and have us all to themselves, and how will they react to a crying baby? I guess we will see

Yipee our shower is today!! :D :D off to start to get ready!!!

[LILRTL]

There are so many of us with showers today!! How fun!!! :D

Coming Home Outfit I know I posted the outfit that we bought, but now I'm terrified it's going to be too big! R said we could go to BRU and buy a premie outfit if I wanted - we can always return it if it's too small! :D

Animals The only way my dog has been acting weird is that if R and I are in the baby's bedroom, Lucky has to make sure to bring us ALL of his toys and try to take the attention away. He is going to have a *really* hard time not being the baby anymore. :(

Sarah Fingers crossed for you!! Can't wait to hear the update! :D

[LeslieR]

Sarah, fingers crossed!!! Keep us posted!

QOTD 2, our cat, Granny, has been acting odd for months now. Very lovey and needy. Not that she wasn't like that before, but it's even more so now.

I saw the SWEETEST thing while I was at Hallmark today:

http://www.iwantitnowgifts.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/NewDad.jpg

I wish I had seen this before Father's Day! They only had a picture of it in the store, otherwise I would have bought it for Sal for his bday. Must remember it for Christmas or maybe as a present for after Luke is born? Hmmm...

[LeslieR]

Oh yeah, everyone who is having showers today: HAVE FUN!!!:D

[LILRTL]

Leslie Isn't that precious? I bought it for DH for when little man is born. He got me the "New Family" one for Mother's Day - I just love that stuff! :D

[LeslieR]

Lora, it really is! I can't believe I'd never seen it before. I think I had only seen the pregnant one (which I confess, I wish Sal would have bought me! Although in his defense, he did buy me the Precious Moments pregnant figurine.). I would love to start collecting them. And I think you've just convinced me to buy that one to give to Sal after Luke is born! :D

[Sarah]

Hmm. Contrax are getting a little stronger, still about 4-5 minutes apart, but not terribly painful. The MW is ready for me to come in, possibly, but says I should just try to relax for a while. I am still not sure this is the "real thing." With my DD my water broke, so this is all relatively new. :D

I'll let you know if I go into the birth center.

[LeslieR]

Weeeeee!!! Another baby might be on it's way! Good luck, Sarah! :D

[QPDoll]

Good luck Sarah!

*****
I feel great today! I slept ALL day and night. I mean, like I was awake yesterday for maybe 4 hours total. It was all drug induced from the night before, but it was heaven. Of course, that means today Im dehydrated, but oh it was worth it. LOL They sent me home with some sleeping pills too, maybe I will start getting more than 3-4 hours of sleep a night now.

No further contractions, at least, not rhythmic or with pain, and no more bleeding. Im wondering if it was all caused by my OBs finger check on Thursday, when she had to dig for my cervix (ouch).

Anyway.
I learned to NOT call my family when Im on the way to the hospital. They beat me there, and then they just sat in the room with me. Felt like they were just sitting there staring at me, all I wanted to do was sleep or talk to my DH about some decisions we needed to make. It was about one AM when I asked the nurse to tell them to leave. LOL My nurses were GREAT! Totally great. My OB still wants me to try a vaginal delivery, so does my DH. I guess we will just see how it goes when its really the time.

For the record though, my "official" 40 week due date is August 14th, but with twins they won't let me go past 38 weeks - which is the end of July. They were expected at 36 weeks though, and thats our goal. Im 36 weeks today. :)

Thank you all for your thoughts and well wishes, hopefully next time things will keep progressing. :)

[QPDoll]

Oh, and another tip we thought of:
Pack a small bag, like a backpack, with the essentials: toothbrush, hairbrush, hard candy, chapstick, and a change of clothes, at least underwear - for you and DH. Bring that into the hospital with you, rather than drag your big suitcase in. If you stay, your DH can always go out and get the big bag.

[LeslieR]

Yay for making it to 36w, Tina! I hear you on not calling the family when you're going to the hospital. Sal and I have agreed not to call any of the nearby family until AFTER Luke is born!

[tracer]

Good luck Sarah!

[michael'sbride]

Good luck Sarah! Keep us posted if you can!

[HollyMN]

Sarah/newmommy, good luck! BTW, I think it's cool that you're using a birth center. There aren't any in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.

You guys! I just finally used a new feature. I'm packing my hospital bag today, and wanted the list from this thread, but didn't want to be the millionth person to ask again where it is. I finally noticed the "Search this thread" feature right in front of my face up at the top of the page. I searched for hospital bag and found the post I was looking for post #713. This rocks, if only WC would have had this.

[Sarah]

Hi! Well, we're back. The contractions are steadily 3-5 minutes apart, but not terribly painful (somewhat, but not bad) and aren't doing much to my cervix. The MW estimated that the baby is about 7+ lbs (and I am 36w1d!!!) and just isn't engaged into my pelvis, so it's head isn't pressing on my cervix to help it dilate. So she sent us home with some meds to help me sleep, since it's pretty exhausting to be contracting all day with no changes. She thinks the baby will come within a few days or a week!

Silly baby, I wish s/he would move down!
Thanks for all the good thoughts.

[snowzilla]

Get some rest Sarah! :)

I hope all of the ladies who had their showers today are having lots of fun! Mine is tomorrow, and it starts at 11 am, so I'll be up fairly early (for a Sunday!) getting myself and DD ready for it.

I'm dog-sitting right now, and totally hating it. It's DH's aunt's dog, and he's totally sweet when he's in his own environment, but he's all stressed out here and keeps peeing on everything, and chewing his tail. DH told her that when he spoke to her on the phone lately, and she didn't believe him! :( She said he's ALWAYS good when he's being babysat by some other friend of hers. Well, either he's very used to the other friend, or she's not telling her how he really behaves. I'm more worn out than if I were running after a toddler. Our poor poodle Dexter is completely confused and jealous, because I have to keep a constant eye on this other dog to make sure he doesn't make his tail bleed (he's done that before). *sigh* I'm not too impressed with DH right now - he's the one who agreed to dog-sit, without asking me first, and he's not even home today! :mad:

[michael'sbride]

Well..i've had a very interesting night!!

I had a very nice shower this morning and was just exhausted this afternoon. I took a nap at around 2:30 and slept until 5:00. I woke up and went to the bathroon and realized that a large quantity, if not all, my plug came out. I was a bit freaked out because with Drew, I lost my plug and within 1 hour I was in full labor. I decided to just wait and see what happend. I started having contractions within minutes and they went straight to 3 minutes apart BUT they weren't painful just hard and crampy. They were lasting 45-60 seconds each. This went on for about two hours before they started slowing down.

Now i'm getting them every 10-15 minutes so I think something is going on, but I think i'm still in for the long haul. I'm excited that my body is starting to get ready to have this boy. Now my mind just has to catch up!

YAY!

[snowzilla]

Yay Melissa! That's wonderful news! Keep us posted. :)

[snowzilla]

Forgot to mention....

I just got back from a toe-painting party (kind of like having a pedicure done, but she paints cool pictures on your toes) with my girlfriends. While I was there, the girl who does the painting asked me when I am due, and I told her August 28, and that I'm 34 weeks as of tomorrow. She said, "But you're so BIG for 34 weeks! And you're TALL!" :mad: She said a few other stupid things that basically alluded to me carrying a "huge baby" and other crap like that. Too bad I already tipped her. ;)

And, I saw the other end of what KimandGino has been subjected to - when she very intrusively asked if I was having a vaginal birth (who the hell asks a stranger if they're having a vaginal birth?!) and I told her I was having a VBAC, she totally copped an attitude. "You WANT to have a vaginal birth? Oh. Well, I'm ALL about the c-section." Well, la-di-da. That's nice. And I wouldn't judge you for that, so how about you keeping that look on your face to yourself next time? Ugh.

Ahhh, that felt good to get off my chest. ;)

[snowzilla]

Forgot to mention....

I just got back from a toe-painting party (kind of like having a pedicure done, but she paints cool pictures on your toes) with my girlfriends. While I was there, the girl who does the painting asked me when I am due, and I told her August 28, and that I'm 34 weeks as of tomorrow. She said, "But you're so BIG for 34 weeks! And you're TALL!" :mad: She said a few other stupid things that basically alluded to me carrying a "huge baby" and other crap like that. Too bad I already tipped her. ;)

And, I saw the other end of what KimandGino has been subjected to - when she very intrusively asked if I was having a vaginal birth (who the hell asks a stranger if they're having a vaginal birth?!) and I told her I was having a VBAC, she totally copped an attitude. "You WANT to have a vaginal birth? Oh. Well, I'm ALL about the c-section." Well, la-di-da. That's nice. And I wouldn't judge you for that, so how about you keeping that look on your face to yourself next time? Ugh.

Ahhh, that felt good to get off my chest. ;)

[michael'sbride]

LOL Carla. Damned if you do, damned if you don't. That just goes to show you that you can't please anyone.

Along with the typical rude comments, I've been getting the sweetest comments from the little kids that live on my street. The little girls keep asking if they can see the baby in my tummy, as if I'm hiding him under my shirt or something. They are adorable.

The one little boy told me that he could tell I was having a baby because my belly was *kinda* big. LOL! How sweet was that, he could have said incredibly huge, but he chose his words very carefully. This 5 year old had more class then most adults i've come in contact with! He went on to tell me that his belly is kinda big too, but not because he had a baby in it, just becuase he ate a big dinner, you see, his parents call him the vacuum. They were so cute I could just die,

Kids really do have a way of putting things in perspective, don't they?

[tracer]

Melissa-That is awesome news and I 'know' something has to be happening down there! Hopefully you will have big news to share on Monday with us! I don't even know what I would do if I started to have contractions already. I know what they feel like, but since I have a high pain tolerance, I might just shrug them off. I am so glad you can explain all this to me.

As for me, I lost more of my MP this morning. And I have been having a tingley feeling down there. Nothing that is painful or hurtful but something. Matt thinks I will go early forsure, fingers crossed he is right.

Carla- Ditto to Melissa, damned if you do, damned if you don't...geezzzz.

[Mickey&B]

Melissa and Sarah Wow! Great news girls sounds like you guys are in the running for the next babies to make their appearance

Well we had our shower today and It was totally awesome sister, mom and best friend went all out. They did a duckie theme and on each table was a center piece that consisted of a white little bath tube filled with blue water and plastic bubbles (so they floated) and a rubber duckie! My parents have a pond and a jacuzzi and both had floating ducks in them! Oh and the cake was the most beautiful cake I have ever seen!! It looked like two presents stacked on top of each other. She also did yellow chocolate duckie suckers!I'll download some pictures and post tomorrow, way to exhausted today!

we made out like bandits! We got all of our "big"' items except for the car seat and we only have a few minor things to pick up off of our registery :D we got something like 500.00 in gift certifcates and cash!! and enough bibs and blankets for the entire neighborhood! Peanut is set on clothes for a long while!!!
BTW the only game we played was one that my hostesses asked of the guests, they asked each guest to bring a creativly decorated onsie, and DH and I had to guess who decorated each one. So fun and we got such great onsies, one of my favorites says "My mom puts out" (DH's best friend made this one) and someone else turned a onsie into a minature police officers uniform! Too Cute I tell ya!!!

Well off to get some rest what a long day!!!

[LeslieR]

Holy progress mamas!!! It's now to the point where I'm checking in for news of babies instead of what's new. lol I'll be keeping my fingers crossed for you guys that something happens soon!:D

Michelle, your shower sounds wonderful. Can't wait to see pics!

Melissa, how cute are those little kids???

Carla, ugh, too bad you already tipped her is right! :p

The wedding was really nice. Of course, I was uncomfortable and miserable, but still had a nice time anyway. I had stuffed shrimp for dinner that were to die for! One of the ladies at our table told me she didn't think I was going to make it until my due date because I looked so uncomfortable. Was that a nice way of saying I'm huge??? :p We left fairly early because I was so miserable. My right knee started hurting me again and my back was really bothering me. (sidenote: Why are some toilets so low to the ground??? Anyone know this? I have taken to using the handicapped toilets because they are so much easier to get off of, but there wasn't one last night. It's really hard to get off a low toilet when you have heels on!:mad: ) I think I moaned the whole way home. lol Poor Sal-I don't know if he's more ready to have this over with so he can have his wife back to normal or so that he can meet his son. :p

[sdauer21]

What do toddlers have against sleeping in on the weekend?? DD can easily sleep until 7:30-8:00 during the week, but this weekend, she's been wide awake at 4:30 and 5:30!! :eek: Of course, I'm the one getting up with her...some things never change. Good thing she's adorable - it helps her get away with stuff like this! ;)

I think we are officially ready for this baby. When I was packing my bag, I realized that we don't have a single recieving blanket (which is rediculous, consider we have about 50 OTHER blankets!!), and only one that doesn't scream BOY. Not that that really matters, but for coming home from the hospital, I wouldn't mind if the baby has a girly blanket... call me crazy. So, we picked up two pink recieving blankets yesterday and some tiny booties, and I finished washing up the going home outfits. I just need to pull everything out of the dryer. And, the last thing - I finally got her baby book! Its the Classic Pooh one from Target adn I really like it. I even started filling it out. Tallie decided she needed to color in it, so I didn't get very far, but at least its here. We'll see if I can keep up with it at all. I did pretty well on Tallie's until she was about 9 months old, but I don't think I've written in it since. :rolleyes:

Even Tallie's getting impatient - she was talking to my belly and rubbing it, saying "Come out baby sister and play with me!!" This morning, she asked when her baby sister was coming out - oh, if I only knew!! :)

Sarah and Melissa I hope you both were able to relax and get some sleep last night, or that you have great news for us this morning!! :) Sounds like us second timers are all itching to get things moving already! Off to entertain the 2 year old...

[lukesmommy]

Hey you guys, it's Karen&Chris from WC, I was supposed to be in this thread. I just wanted to wish all of you luck! I can't believe you are so close to having your babies. I'm so excited to see pictures of them!


Good luck and easy labor vibes to all of you!!!


Karen

[LeslieR]

Karen, I love your username! Sal calls me "Luke's mommy" all the time. :D Thanks for the well wishes!

Sonya, Tallie is too freaking cute!!! I can just see her talking to your belly. So sweet! The flower girl at the wedding last night was soooo cute. Sal actually said to me (after watching the flower girl boogying down on the dance floor with the ring bearer) "I'm glad we're having a boy, but it would be so nice to have a girl." Next time, honey. lol

We got the same baby book, btw. Go figure. ;) I couldn't wait to start filling it out, either, and then I was sad when I could only do one or two pages. Come on Luke! We're ready to meet you!!! lol


I just have to share-one of my friends was due July 10th and she had her baby on July 14th-8lb 5 oz-no episiotomy and only one stitch! I just found out this morning. She's just gorgeous! All these babies arriving and being on their way is making me super anxious!!!

[QPDoll]

Wow girls, I just found this new ticker site, I WISH we could have tickers! I love this one, it would have been awesome to have throughout pregnancy!

http://tickers.baby-gaga.com/p/dev225pb___.png (http://www.baby-gaga.com/)

[tracer]

TINA ~ That is so cool!!! We need an update, how are you? :)

[LeslieR]

Oh, that is way cute! You could always just put a link to the ticker in your sig...

[michael'sbride]

I'm still here! I got a good night sleep last night and woke up this morning and headed with Drew to the Zoo. There is no better way to walk baby out then to go to the Zoo in 96 degree weather!

I have an OB appt tomorrow morning at 9:15 and all i'm hoping for at this point is 1cm! I'm not going to be greedy! Anything is better than nothing.

Hope everyone else is having a quiet weekend!

[Mickey&B]

Leslie sorrry you were so uncomfortable :( I was amazed to hear you wore heels!!! I tried to wear some wedge type shoes for my baby shower and they only lasted a few hours before my feet almost overtook them :p

Melissa Have fun at the zoo, sounds like a fun day.

Tina that's awesome thanks for sharing!!

Off to do laundry, and sorting baby clothes, and make a few returns!!

[QPDoll]

Sarah Are you feeling like a ticking time-bomb yet? Its reassuring to me to hear you say how tired you are, I also received meds to help me sleep. I found it was tiring too. I wasnt sure if it was the physical aspect, the emotional, or a combination of both. Are you still having contractions?

Melissa How exciting! Any progress you think, since you lost your MP, what did your OB say? Your trip to the zoo does NOT in any way sound fun. LOL I so don't do heat.

Carla Too bad you already tipped that gal. Its just staggering what people feel is appropriate to say to a pregnant woman. I went out 'in public' last night (I actually left the house!), and about 5 or 6 people asked me how I was going to deliver. It was wierd, I really didn't feel comfortable talking to people about if I was going to squirt em out or what. LOL I just said it depends on the position when I go into labor.

Tracy Things are happening ehe??

Mickey Your shower sounds awesome! I'm thrilled you received so many of your big ticket items, what a relief that must be. :) I wanna see pictures of those centerpieces, they sound adorable!

Leslie I SO know what your talkign about with the handicapped bathrooms! Glad the wedding was nice, but it must have been wonderful to get home, kick off your shoes and get comfortable. Whats wrong with your knee - other than your 9 months pregnant and wearing heals (you da woman!).

Sonya Tallie sounds adorable! Its so cute she is excited about the baby. The baby book sounds cute! I'm the youngest of four; by the time I came along, my mom wasnt into baby books. I had one, but it didn't have anything filled out. Did have pictures in it, but she put the wrong birth year on everything. LMAO At least this baby won't feel neglected if you don't get too far in the baby book, since you didn't do much in Tallies either. I think living life is more important than spending life trying to write it all down. You will have memories - more than just of writing in a book.

Nothing new here with me. Still have on and off contractions, they feel "deeper" than they were before, but they are real infrequent. I finally feel awake and not in a drug induced coma, but I do feel rested! Its hot here today, so Im in the computer room with the AC on. Were going to our friends' house for dinner tonight, Im looking forward to it. :)

[Amandabug]

Wow! Things have been crazy for me this past weekend. I first went to my apt on Friday and my blood pressure is up a little.. Didn't think too much of it.

Well, Saturday morning I woke up with blurry vision so I jumped in shower to try to relax and see if it would go away. It did after about an hour. Later on in the morning though my vision went blurry on my again. So, I called Labor and Delivery and chatted with a nurse. She wanted me to go in just to get evaluauted

So, My DH and I were off for all day at the Hospital getting things checked out. Blood Pressure still up but they can't seem to find what was going wrong. Which I guess is a good thing. I am not pre-eclamptic and thats what they were worried about. I also have a bleeding disorder and everything with that came back looking good.

It was sort of neat to be there and chatting with all the nurses. They took so good care of me and didn't make me feel I didn't belong there just yet. They had the baby hooked up to a fetal moniter for about 3 hours and they said the baby looks awesome there. I am happy to be home because I know even more now I want this baby to come on its own when its ready and not to rush things along.. It was a learning day for DH thats forsure.. My poor DH was FREEZING so I know now to bring him some blankets for the lounging couch.. Take care everynody, Amanda

[LeslieR]

Okay, one carseat base installed, one to go! At least Luke can come anytime now that one is installed. ;)

Oh, no, girls, they weren't heels heels. I should have explained that they were tiny kitten heels. lol And actually the heels part didn't bother me, it was the stupid straps. Why I didn't buy wide width is beyond me!

As far as my knee goes, I have no clue what's wrong with it other than the fact that I am about 100lbs overweight right now and that can't be easy on the knees. lol I've always had problems with them in the past, but this pregnancy has instensified that. I feel it most when I get up from sitting down.:rolleyes:

Amanda, the blurry vision would have really scared me. I'm glad you are okay!

Tina, dinner with friends sounds like fun. I hope you have a good time!

Melissa, oh, you are a brave soul! I can't imagine the zoo in this heat. It was positively sweltering here today. ugh.

[snowzilla]

Just got back from my baby shower/spa party. It was a pretty big success. Even my best friend's grandmothers came, and the one grandmother got her first manicure - ever. My daughter got her first mani/pedi at age 7, and there was T's grandma, getting her first mani at 75! It was pretty neat.

We got some beautiful gifts - not everything was from our registry, but even if it wasn't, they were all such thoughtful and heartfelt gifts! DH even snuck over there this morning and dropped off two gifts for me. :o He bought me my breast pump (because he knows I'm going to need a break now and then, smart man...) and our baby swing. Everybody thought he deserved husband of the year for his thoughtfulness, and I'd have to agree.

My friend brought her 9 week old baby, and my daughter got a chance to hold her. I can't wait to see the pictures that were taken - she was a natural. :)

We're going to take the kids to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory tonight, but not until the dog that we're sitting is picked up. I hate to say it, but I'll be glad to see him go. He was just SO much work. I think a toddler would have been easier (seriously).

Hope everyone is well! :)

[Cosmogirl]

Hi girls! WOW so manythings happeneing again!
Tina Oh sweety so sorry that the boys aren,t here still. I'm glad that you are holding on so well, you really are a champ!!! You look so much more rested now then after the hospital trip.

Melissa Hoping things will go your way tomorrow at the Dr appointment! Gald that there are some things going on down there! Good luck tomorrow and keep us posted!

Sarah Just a tease I guess! I hope this comes soon for you

Showers I hope you guys had all the fun you deserve at your showers!
*******************************
Weekend:
This weekend was my birthday party. My mom, sister and uncles and aunts were here to celebrate with me. The weather was reallyhot, but with the pool a lot more tolerable. We had a good time though, it was really a lot of fun. I also had some present for baby, it was kinda fun to receive all that.

On the baby side, I think this guy is kidding me! I start to have contraction often, but then they always stop when I start to think that it might be it. My mom and sister didn't believe how much he moved down again, according to my mom, the next step is the floor... ;) I have my appointment tomorrow afternoon, I look foward to see what kind of progress I have made...But sometimes, I fell like he is going to tease me to the end, and come at his EDD!!! :rolleyes: Anyways, what is important is that he'll comes when he is ready, I guess max 2 weeks, and he is going to be here. I don't have a feeling, although I'm thinking this week might be it. But I'll have a better idea tomorrow. I also want to ask my doc if I still have my plug (girls is the doc able to say???). I really thought I hadn't lost it last week when we talked about that, but thinking back, I realised that I could have lost it following the first internal I had. Doc had told me that I could have bloody or brown discharge for 24 hours following the exam, but it kept going for 4 days...Maybe it wasn,t only brownish discharge, but my plug. So we'll see.

So have a good night girls! Hoping to be able to sleep tonight! :p

[Sarah]

Are you feeling like a ticking time-bomb yet? Its reassuring to me to hear you say how tired you are, I also received meds to help me sleep. I found it was tiring too. I wasnt sure if it was the physical aspect, the emotional, or a combination of both. Are you still having contractions?

Yeah, pretty steadily, anywhere from 3 to 10 minutes apart. It's really exhausting, since they are becoming painful but not really doing much so far. I actually didn't take the meds last night but I may tonight. Thanks for the well wishes.

[michael'sbride]

Sarah Try to stay strong, at this point, the mental exhaustion can be so much worse. Just know that we're all pulling for you. I hope baby comes soon and gives you a break...LOL, as if, right?

I'm off to bed to get rid of a splitting headache. I'll be back tomorrow morning with my OB update. Doing the 1cm dance!

[LILRTL]

FINALLY getting a chance to post this weekend! We have had company since Friday morning, and I am ready to CRASH.

Our shower yesterday was FABULOUS. (Aside from the fact that it was outside at a park, and we had a nice thunderstorm. :p ) Lucky for us, we were under a pavilion. None of the gifts got wet, etc. We got quite a bit of stuff from our registry - quite a bit NOT from our registry - but mostly stuff we needed! I have ZERO pictures from the shower. but here was our loot when we got home!
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d936b3127cce928ebe55b49900000016109AbsmrJk5au
Including my prized Vera Bradley diaper bag!!!!!! :D (So excited about this one!)
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d936b3127cce928ebe5635aa00000016109AbsmrJk5au

And my 36 week belly shot - on the way to the shower!
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d936b3127cce928ebe51b49d00000016109AbsmrJk5au

[Mickey&B]

Yeah, pretty steadily, anywhere from 3 to 10 minutes apart. It's really exhausting, since they are becoming painful but not really doing much so far.

Ohh Sarah I am so sorry, this would drive me crazy with anticipation!!! Taking those meds might help you get some rest

Lora you look great! Horray for the great bag!! I got my petunia pickle bottom bag for my shower now I just can't wait for little bean so I can use it ;)

Well didn't get pictures downloaded I used my mom's digital and as it turns out the picture disk thingy isn't compatable with my printer so I'll have to wait. Who ever took video did manage to take some shots no real good ones but here is one of DH and I right before we opened our gifts!
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d936b3127cce92afdc7e94c700000016108AcsnLZyzZNB

No news to report sad to say no progress here :rolleyes: but I did manage to schedule a pregnacy massage for tomorrow I got a gift certificate at each of my showers so I get to do it twice yipee!

Ohh Yeah how could I forget! So I get a call from the place that sold me my glider this week to give them a call about it, I just got around to it today but anyway the lady proceeds to tell me that Dutalier (sp?) is no longer making my glider and that they would not be able to get it to me (mind you I ordered 12 weeks ago and they are just telling me this now!!!)well the lady says that she could get me another model that looks similiar to the one I wanted but it's over $100 more so it's about $600.00 :eek: but that she can give me $50 dollars off :rolleyes: woopee right, not only that but she has no idea when it would arrive so like maybe another 12 weeks!!!! WTF!!! baby is going to be here in like 4! this is why I ordered it so long ago! anyway the company said that they would refund my money but I am stuck what should I do? do I just look else were for my glider? What do you girls think?

[Cosmogirl]

Leslie Wish Sal a happy birthday!!! What a GREAT birthdate! :p

[Cosmogirl]

HUmmmm 2 posts in a row, maybe I'm not busy enough this morning!

Ok, so i won,t get to 10 (although it would be an easy job...) but I can list one that just happened right now. She just called me this morning at 8:30, her first question being "were you sleeping???" Well, I guess not anymore! She started telling em amoung all thigs that she had seen her doctor this week, and according to him, being where I am right now (effaced, dilated...) doesn't mean that I will go sooner. As a matter of fact, her doc thinks that I'm going to be late... :rolleyes: So now, she really think I'm going to be, and that my OB is full of it. Now, why oh why would her doc, that I haven't seen in my entire life would be able to predict my due date more then my OBSTETRICIAN who has been in the field for years, and most of all has been following me along since day one??? I KNOW I could still be late, I mean, baby will be here when he'll be here and he is not until he is, you know what I mean? (so it could be anytime) but if my OB strongly thinks that I won't get to my due date, and that 38-39 weeks should be my "dates" who do you think I'm going to believe??? Surely her doc's opinion has more weight then my own OB! Maybe I've been following the wrong person from the start! :rolleyes: *Sigh* Why oh why me! What a great way to start my day! I think I'll go mop the floor on my knee to make this boy come sooner! :p

[LILRTL]

How do I know the difference? I have been "cramping" constantly since last night around 1 am. It hasn't stopped. It literally brought me out of a deep sleep at 5 am this morning. Still cramping...constant. Help? :p

[LeslieR]

Lora, this is my worst fear that I won't know I'm in labor! The paperwork I got from my dr at my last appt says to call when you are having contractions that are 3-5 minutes apart and 50-70 seconds long. Have you been timing them? It won't hurt anything to call your dr, they're probably going to ask you how many minutes apart they are and what not...

Val, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Ugh, about your MIL! That's all I can really say about that. lol

Michelle, you and your hubby look so cute!!! About the glider, personally I would see about finding another one. I CANNOT believe that you ordered it 12 weeks ago and they're just NOW telling you that it is no longer available? WTF???? Someone f'ed up majorly. I don't know if it's the store or Dutalier, but that is BS!

Lora, holy loot!!! Looks like you guys made out like bandits. And you look so cute in your shower dress!:D

[LILRTL]

That's my problem, Leslie I can't tell when they stop and another one starts! LOL :o It's just like one, big, long cramp...that's lasting for HOURS. (not terribly painful - mostly uncomfortable - why can't my water just break or something?)

[LILRTL]

Now I'm nervous. They want me to come in. ACK!!!

[Cosmogirl]

Lora These are the pains I have been having. They are like really not comfortable prementrual cramps that you can't really time, it is just there all the time. For me they have come and gone, but according to my doc, they are a type of labor pain. So if you feel that this is still going on strong, call your ob. :D Good luck!
why can't my water just break or something
Nah! That would be too easy! :p

Leslie THANKS!!!! I'm old now! :(

[Cosmogirl]

Cross post!
GOOD LUCK! KEEP US POSTED!!!! You know how impatient we all are!

[LeslieR]

why can't my water just break or something?

I hear you, sister, I hear you! I figured they would want you to come in and get checked. Good luck and keep us posted!

Val, you're not old! Sal's 33!:D Poor guy has to work on his birthday and here I am just hanging out. And then we have lamaze tonight. He's not going to get to relax and enjoy his birthday today at all. I think we're going to go out for hot wings tonight (maybe the spicy food will do something for me?:rolleyes: ) after lamaze. Do you guys have anything special planned?

[MurphysLaw]

Val & Sal - Happy Bdays!;)

Michelle - I would have someone chewed out over that glider, WTF is right! I agree with Leslie that you should try to find another one, and me personally? AT another store/retailer!! SO sorry about that.:(

Lora - OMG could this be it??:o

Sorry I haven't been around so much lately...my sleep is something awful. Those of you that know mine and DH's schedule know I should NOT be up right now.:rolleyes:

Last night I had BHC or contrax so bad that it brought me to tears. Not teary eyed, I mean all out sobbing & stabbing pain low in my belly and in my back. We called the hospital and asked the nurse on staff what to do...she asked if we'd DTD since that can sometimes start up BHC or contrax, but no. She simply said, "well if you want to come in and get hooked up we can see what's going on." I decided to wait it out and just try to relax..they went away, but it had happened a few times earlier so I'm wondering when it's going to happen again. I'm also wondering if these are just BHC and I'm a HUGE baby with no tolerance to pain! The other day I thought I was starting to slowly lose my MP because of a few light slimy incidents wiping, BLECH GROSS. But no bloody show and not really a lot of anything.:confused: I have a DR appt tomorrow, just a normal check up, it's my 34th week appt so I'm hoping that they are just BHC. I'm technically not due till the 29th, so I *should* be one of the last to go...BAKE baby girl, BAKE.

Okay I'm exhausted, I'm going back to bed....hugs & baking & easy-labor-to-those-that-go-early vibes.;)

XOXOX

[Cosmogirl]

Leslie Well, it is going to be a calm day for us too! Fred is working, but he *promised* that he would come with me for my appointment this afternoon at 3. He is really good with pormised, except when he is at work...(he doesn't have full control I guess!). So we'll see, but I would really like for him to come. After that, the only thing I've ask for was a SUSHI DINNER!!!!! I figure that at 38 weeks, sushis couldn,t be that bad (and I'll take the cooked things like salmon, and shrimps, you know, I won,t go for the exotic fish or tuna...) But I kinda like your idea of spicy! :p After a weekend of kidding with my family to find what are the old wives tales about labor, Fred told me right after they left you know, I know a good way to make Fiston come sooner...MEN!!! :rolleyes:
So that is about it for us too! Relax night, and nothing special. But I have to admit that Lamaze class for a birthday, wow lucky guy :p

Kim Thanks for the wishes!!!
Happy resting! I hope she keeps on baking in there!

[LILRTL]

I'm not going in 'til 1, so I will still be around. ;) I told them I had to shower, etc. so they are having me come in after lunch. Don't they know I am *dying* for my caffeinated beverage! :p

I just talked to my mother - she said this is how her labor started with my sister. Keeping my fingers crossed!!!

[sarahanna115]

Hi girls! I've tried to catch up since I've been away from Friday on, and I'm so glad to hear reports of more babies hopefully starting their arrivals soon!

Lora Ugh, cramping? Something going on?? Maybe you are 1 more cm dialated now! :p Keep us updated...maybe your dr. will want you to come in today to get evaluated?

Leslie Glad you held up at the wedding!!

Happy Birthday Val!

Mickey You look sooo good! I'm glad you had a good babyshower. About your glider - I think if I was in that situation, I would look for another one I can just pick up at the store the day I see it! I am impatient though. ;) (I just got mine at Burlington's Baby Depot for $200...not the best glider in the world, but it works and is quite comfy!)

----
I had my baby shower - yay! It was a great shower and MIL (for those of you who read about the MIL/shower drama of a few weeks past) pulled off everything beautifully and the backyard fiasco worked out! It WAS hot and muggy and everyone eventually went inside, but what can ya do, it's freaking the middle of July!! We got almost EVERTYHING off of the registry except for my baby carrier, vinyl mattress cover, and Britax carseat (for when he's grown out of the snugride)...as you can see, we got a ton!

The loot:
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/sarahanna115/P1000435.jpg

Rufus checking out all the stuff (he did run away with a little white teddy bear, but I rescued it just in time, haha)...
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/sarahanna115/P1000438.jpg

The polkadot bag is FULL of clothes (I didn't even register for clothes and we got a TON as I thought we might - all so cute) and downstairs we have the Jeep Sahara Play Yard, Ocean Wonders Aquarium Swing, and our Graco Metrolite travel system + additional snug ride base.

The weekend with having family at the house + trying to pick everyone up at different times at the airport was complete chaos! For instance, I took a half-day from work to pick up my mom and sister at 2, we went out to the lunch and hung out on that side of town (we live an hour from the airport) for a few hours at a mall plaza waiting for my aunt to get in. But her flight kept getting delayed and she was flying standby anyways, so we were never sure of when she'd come in, so we kept hanging and hanging out across town. Well at 7, she said she would leave at 8 and get in at 9:30. Then we got a call saying it was delayed. Her flight got in at MIDNIGHT. So we hung out down there from 2-MIDNIGHT. THEN...after we picked her up, the road back to my side of town was closed down and we sat in STOPPED TRAFFIC from 12:30 to 2:00 am...and my AC stopped working so we were in a fogged up, muggy hot car in a traffic jam being re-routed out of our way. We got home at 2:30 in the morning. Anyways, that was a sample of what all the airport excitement that happened both Friday AND Sunday.

Then last night we went to a Mexican food restaurant with Jeremy's family and at 3:30 I woke up and was SO sick. I was throwing up nonstop (sorry TMI) and then was in so much pain I just curled up on the bathroom floor until 4:30. Rough night.

But... I think the baby dropped. On Friday, I felt a change of pressure, as if he was more in the center of my pelvis, right on my bladder. Today I noticed my stomach shape (from my perspective looking down) looks more pointy and narrow at the belly button as if he isn't sideways anymore. I had a lot of cramping this morning and REALLY STRONG hip-pains as if they were pulling apart. I am hoping on Wednesday I get some good news about some dialation/effacement!

Real quick Expert Mom's Question! I got a lot of size 1-2 Pamper's "New Baby" swaddlers and also a Huggies pack of the same (they are all "up to 15 lbs" -- do I need to go and get some Pamper's NEWBORN swaddlers or will these "New Baby, up to 15 lbs" ones work?

Ok that's my little baby shower weekend update. Lots to clean up and set up at home, clean out the cars, install car seat bases, pack the hospital bag, & diaper bag!

Can't wait to hear more news from you girls!

[tracer]

Michelle and Lora - CUte pictures, you ladies look beautiful!

Val & Leslie for Sal - Happy birthday!

Melissa - Where are you? What's the latest from your appt?? I can't wait ot hear.

Michelle - Sorry about your glider, I would be pissed too. They should give you the new one for the same price as the old one for waiting an endless amount of weeks.

Kim - Sorry about the pain. I have been having cramping fairly bad, but like LORA I don't know when it is the real thing. I time them, but nothing consistent. DH and I have almost had to call into our dr a few times but we know what they will say, that I need ot come in to be checked out. Well with a toddler at home, it isn't just that easy to rush to the hospital without worring about meals, naps, yada yada for him. I think I will know when I need to go but I just want answers to some questions. Get some rest girl.


Sarah- Wow you made out with your shower! I hope baby has dropped and starts to push on your cervix haelping to dilate and efface! Good vibes being sent!

As for me, I fell 2 times last night. Not because I am clumsy or my balance is off, as if, baby was on a nerve and it kept making my left leg give out. It felt like my leg was esleep and I couldn't put any pressure on it. Matt was following me around until I setteled into bed to make sure I was ok. I also did more research and I THINK that I didn't lose my MP but I have a had a lot of bloody show. Well they say when you have this that labor should start shortly thereafter. Well I am still here and very pregnant so so much for that myth! I have my dr appt tomorrow and can not wait. Dr. is stripping my membranes and we are hoping for another cm. I have been having pressure in my pelvic area so something is going on but I can tell he has not dropped. My back is sore so I am going to go do some exercises on my ball to see if that might help. Oh the end of pregnancy...the anticipation is killing me!!!!

[LeslieR]

Sarah, man, you made out like a bandit, too! Yay!!!

Kim, sending you lots of 'keep on baking, baby' vibes!

It seems like those of you who are due after me have a lot more going on than I do. :p

I'm really trying to mentally get in a better place about this whole thing, but it doesn't seem to be working. I'm so anxious for Luke to get here and it really still could be a while. I've got to somehow begin to enjoy these last moments I have to myself before the blessed event. Maybe I need to imagine a baby crying and not being able to take a shower or even take time to go to the bathroom by myself? lol

[sdauer21]

Still here - not much to report. DH has taken up asking me every 5 minutes - I'm about to tell him the same thing I told my mom when she was calling every 5 minutes before Tallie: If he asks again, I'm not telling him anything until AFTER the baby gets here! :rolleyes: And, I've taken to screening my calls. MIL called AGAIN yesterday, even though we had just talked to her less then 24 hours before. Do these people honestly think we're going to have the baby and not tell them??? UGGHH! And, sounds like the in-laws are going to barge in without an invite...they are tired of the weather in the Seattle area and its been sunny and hot here, so they are hinting that they're going to head this way by the middle of the week! :eek: My friend has kindly predicted that she thinks I'll go today or tomorrow...I so hope so!! I really want the baby HERE before the inlaws move in!

We had a pretty relaxing weekend, depsite Tallie being off schedule. I don't know what's up with her sleep (though she slept in until after 7 today...figures!). I can't tell if she doesn't feel good or is sensing things are about to change? But she's not exactly her normal self. Her new favorite thing now is to tell me that "mama's stripped!! Mama's a zebra!" - gotta love stretch marks! :P

Those of you with showers are making out like bandits! I forgot how much loot you can bring in at those! Isn't it nice to see first hand how generous people can be? I was blown away at gifts we got from people we barely knew! My sisters both offered to do a shower for us, but I felt weird about having one, with Tallie only being 2 1/2. Between left over stuff from her and hand me downs from my sister (who's daughter will be one on Friday), we just didn't need anything. Instead, we're going to have a "Welcome to the World" party at the end of August. It will be a big celebration, and our way of saying Thank you to all our family and friends for helping us get through this pregnancy. I think it will be lots of fun - I love planning parties!! :)

Have to get the toddler ready to go and get myself ready for a nice long walk. DH helped me pick out some hilly neighborhoods to walk through...this baby is going to come out one way or another!! :)

Those of you getting so close...Lora, Sarah, Melissa - hang in there!! I'll be checking back to see how ya'll are doing! :)

[michael'sbride]

Hi everyone! I just don't have time to do SO's right now. Its a race against time to get even this update posted before my Boss realizes that i'm back and he starts throwing work at me!

I had a great appt. My contrax this weekend helped me dialate to 3cm! Thats great news from someone who's cervix was too high to even reach last week. The internal hurt! They put me on the NST machine because i've been worried that he hasn't been moving much lately. It took 15 minutes and the buzzer to get him to move, he must have been sleeping! The NST machine measured my contrax too and I was having some contrax that were so strong they were off the chart. The nurse and Dr. were confirming with me that I had my bags packed and I was ready at any time. My Dr. said I could be today and most likely I won't make my next appt a week from tomorrow. Hopefully she's right but if she's not i'll be ok with that too. I just want him to be ready and I'm really happy that if I do have to be induced I won't have to go the full 10cm's.

Thats it from me. The contrax are still coming but not regular. I'll just have to see what the day brings!

[LeslieR]

Weeeeee!!! I'm so excited for you Melissa! Keep us posted! :D

Sonya, too funny on the hilly neighborhoods! It's worth a shot, right? And :rolleyes: to the family members that keep calling for an update. Give me a break. Do they really think you're not going to call them? ugh!