We had our first birthing class on Monday. They went over the stages of labor and what their procedure is, just basic stuff really. There were a few moments of squirming of the guys (especially with the episiotomy section) and head shaking from the girls (like when they mentioned we have bigger babies these days.) Most of the information I knew from reading my various pregnancy books, but I did learn a few things about the OB's policies that I did not know about (such as routine episiotomies.)
Next week we meet to discuss breast feeding and after care and then get a tour of the hospital wing, well floor really, where we will deliver. After that I will make my birthing plan and give to my nurse to put in my chart. I know that the plan might not get completely followed, but at least they will know my preferences.
We are very excited for baby to get here and can't believe we have about ten more weeks to wait. It is good we have ten more weeks though cause we do have just a few things we still need to do. We haven't had a baby shower yet, but will in the next few weeks, and then we will know what stuff we need to go buy to complete the nursery. Most of the stuff is there, but we need things like a changing pad, crib sheets, and diaper supplies.
We have another couple who is due a month before us, and they just found out that the husband might not be at the delivery because he just started the police academy and they have specific days they can not leave. We offered to be their backup, so I might get to be a part of a delivery before I have my own child, but we are crossing our fingers for them that the father gets to be there.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
28 Weeks
Today I had my glucose test. I had been dreading this test since they sent me home with the little bottle of orange soda last month. I really worried about being diagnosed with gestational diabetes. I have a family history of it, plus I had gained double what I normally do in a month. (7.5 pounds this month!) But I ate my breakfast (of eggs instead of cereal like my OB nurse suggested) and chugged my little soda right before I left. It wasn't nearly as bad as I remember the test being when I took it in high school. The drink was sugary, but it tasted just like HiC, so it wasn't gag inducing. I got a 139 on blood sugar, which is just one point from having to take the three hour glucose test. They aren't going to give me the three hour test, but since I gained so much weight with no major changes in diet or exercise, they are going to keep an eye out.
I also got my flu shot today, and will be getting the Swine Flu one when it comes out in a few weeks. I was apprehensive about getting the swine flu one, but the OB assured me that the ingredients were the same as the normal flu, it just has the inactive swine flu instead. She also told me that the risk of being put in the hospital, or worse, are really high with the flu this year for pregnant women, and since I have to occasionally go to campus still, I really needed to protect myself. She also recommended T get both shots, so that when the little girl gets here, the chances are greatly reduced for her being exposed to any flu. We are normally very lucky in not getting colds, but after the one we both had last week, we realized it is a whole new game when it comes to children being around. I am just glad that we live in a day and age where flu shots and modern medicine can prevent or heal such things.
I also got my flu shot today, and will be getting the Swine Flu one when it comes out in a few weeks. I was apprehensive about getting the swine flu one, but the OB assured me that the ingredients were the same as the normal flu, it just has the inactive swine flu instead. She also told me that the risk of being put in the hospital, or worse, are really high with the flu this year for pregnant women, and since I have to occasionally go to campus still, I really needed to protect myself. She also recommended T get both shots, so that when the little girl gets here, the chances are greatly reduced for her being exposed to any flu. We are normally very lucky in not getting colds, but after the one we both had last week, we realized it is a whole new game when it comes to children being around. I am just glad that we live in a day and age where flu shots and modern medicine can prevent or heal such things.
Friday, September 11, 2009
The Cat's Day
This morning I was sitting in the computer room doing work and I heard the cat make some eating noises. I looked over to watch her swallowing some yarn we had played with last night. I tried to get it out of her mouth, but she ran from me, and well a 6th month pregnant woman is no match in speed for a cat. I got to the bedroom to watch her eat the last inch of it with this look of pure defiance. I pried her mouth open trying to see if I could get it out still, but it was long gone.
I called the vet since it was about a foot of yarn that she swallowed and she already tried to hack up a hairball that morning. They told me to bring her in. I got the cat carrier out of the attic, which isn't an easy feat anymore either, only to have her run from me again. I finally cornered her in the bedroom and teased her with her favorite treat until I could grab her.
The vet checked her over and didn't feel any blockages that would indicate that she had done this before and had caused some damage, so he recommended that we make her throw up. In order to do this, they had to give her a sedative which would cause her to vomit, and then give her the counter agent to help bring her out of it. It was successful and only the yarn and some fur came up, so that was a good sign. They said she most likely has swallowed other things in the past such as hair things, but it appears she has passed them successfully. But now we have to watch out for what is available for her and keep it out of reach.
I brought her home still groggy and it was pretty cute to watch as she slowly slumped over time and time again. I was afraid to leave her because she kept throwing up each time she ate (I did take it away from her eventually) and she just seemed so out of it. When T got home she was still really groggy so the two of us took turns watching over her. She finally starting coming out of it about 6 hours after the medicine had been given, so I let her eat slowly and she seems to be keeping it down. She isn't completely awake yet though so I will have to check on her throughout the night, which isn't really a problem for me since I am up every two hours to use the bathroom anyways. (And she usually cuddles to me lately.)
It made me think though about our little one and how worried we would be if something happened to her. My SIL is a nurse at a children's hospital and she told us that sometimes the parents would rather go home and sleep than stay with their sick child. I couldn't even leave my cat to go grocery shopping until I knew T would be home soon, much less leave my poor sick and scared child in a hospital alone.
I called the vet since it was about a foot of yarn that she swallowed and she already tried to hack up a hairball that morning. They told me to bring her in. I got the cat carrier out of the attic, which isn't an easy feat anymore either, only to have her run from me again. I finally cornered her in the bedroom and teased her with her favorite treat until I could grab her.
The vet checked her over and didn't feel any blockages that would indicate that she had done this before and had caused some damage, so he recommended that we make her throw up. In order to do this, they had to give her a sedative which would cause her to vomit, and then give her the counter agent to help bring her out of it. It was successful and only the yarn and some fur came up, so that was a good sign. They said she most likely has swallowed other things in the past such as hair things, but it appears she has passed them successfully. But now we have to watch out for what is available for her and keep it out of reach.
I brought her home still groggy and it was pretty cute to watch as she slowly slumped over time and time again. I was afraid to leave her because she kept throwing up each time she ate (I did take it away from her eventually) and she just seemed so out of it. When T got home she was still really groggy so the two of us took turns watching over her. She finally starting coming out of it about 6 hours after the medicine had been given, so I let her eat slowly and she seems to be keeping it down. She isn't completely awake yet though so I will have to check on her throughout the night, which isn't really a problem for me since I am up every two hours to use the bathroom anyways. (And she usually cuddles to me lately.)
It made me think though about our little one and how worried we would be if something happened to her. My SIL is a nurse at a children's hospital and she told us that sometimes the parents would rather go home and sleep than stay with their sick child. I couldn't even leave my cat to go grocery shopping until I knew T would be home soon, much less leave my poor sick and scared child in a hospital alone.
26 and 27 Weeks
Yeah, I know I am behind. Let's just say I am getting slower as I get bigger. I have my monthly appointment next Wednesday, and on top of the glucose tolerance test, I will verify that I have in fact gained over 10 pounds this month. (Or at least my home scale seems to think that.)I am definitely feeling like a big pregnant woman, not quite as big as a house, but town house would be close.
For Labor Day we went to Ohio to visit family for my last trip out of state before the little girl gets here. It was a short three day trip, but we had a great time. Got to see my nieces, one of which we hadn't seen yet. We went to a few local places of interest like the German Village, Schmidt's, North Market, and Metro Park and spent some good time just talking or relaxing. The only downside was the cold T and I caught from our niece, but we can't fault her for sharing cause she is just too cute not to cuddle with. Can't wait till our little girl gets to play with her cousins.
For Labor Day we went to Ohio to visit family for my last trip out of state before the little girl gets here. It was a short three day trip, but we had a great time. Got to see my nieces, one of which we hadn't seen yet. We went to a few local places of interest like the German Village, Schmidt's, North Market, and Metro Park and spent some good time just talking or relaxing. The only downside was the cold T and I caught from our niece, but we can't fault her for sharing cause she is just too cute not to cuddle with. Can't wait till our little girl gets to play with her cousins.
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
8th Anniversary
The 28th marked our eighth wedding anniversary, but we celebrated the Saturday before. Lots of people told us to live this one up since it won't ever be the same again, but we decided that we didn't need to go anywhere since we had a trip planned for later on. The festivities started on Thursday when T and I went to the movie theater to watch RiffTrax live. (Think MST3K but without the robots.) The movie was Plan 9 From Outer Space, and despite the few times the satelite feed went out, it was a really enjoyable event. The next day, T took a half day because he hadn't had a day off in months, and we went to a matinee showing of District 9. It was a fantastic film.
The next day we had our anniversary meal. We thought about going to our favorite restaurant since we don't go except for special occasions and we didn't know when we would be able to go next, but instead, T made me a French feast suitable for a member of the aristocracy. First came crepes for breakfast, but these were not simple crepes. They were filled with ham and mushrooms and topped with a cheese sauce. It took him two hour to make them, but they were well worth the effort and time because they were amazing. Then for dinner he made me roasted chicken with potatoes and bacon, a side of green beans with lemon zest, and to end the meal Napoleons. I helped a tiny little bit when there were too many things that needed to be stirred or cut at once, but he did 99% of the work.
I gave T a shaving mirror for the shower and he gave me a watch (so I could time my contractions later on.) We kept the whole event pretty simple, as some people questioned our laid back approach on what is the last anniversary alone, but honestly when it was all over, we were more excited about the next one and the little girl who will be here to celebrate with us.
The next day we had our anniversary meal. We thought about going to our favorite restaurant since we don't go except for special occasions and we didn't know when we would be able to go next, but instead, T made me a French feast suitable for a member of the aristocracy. First came crepes for breakfast, but these were not simple crepes. They were filled with ham and mushrooms and topped with a cheese sauce. It took him two hour to make them, but they were well worth the effort and time because they were amazing. Then for dinner he made me roasted chicken with potatoes and bacon, a side of green beans with lemon zest, and to end the meal Napoleons. I helped a tiny little bit when there were too many things that needed to be stirred or cut at once, but he did 99% of the work.
I gave T a shaving mirror for the shower and he gave me a watch (so I could time my contractions later on.) We kept the whole event pretty simple, as some people questioned our laid back approach on what is the last anniversary alone, but honestly when it was all over, we were more excited about the next one and the little girl who will be here to celebrate with us.
25 Weeks
I seem to be getting slower and slower at posting these, but at least I manage to keep up before the next week starts. I have been determined during the pregnancy to stay as active as I can and to remain doing as many tasks as I can for as long as I can. Well I think the time has come to learn to let some go. Bending over at the waist to grab something has become really uncomfortable, but not until after I have already done it. I also pulled a back muscle the other day which had me cuddled to the heating pad for a day. I find myself forgetting that I have a huge belly in front of me, and when I get up in the middle of the night to use the restroom, I often strain some muscle because I get out of bed inappropriately for a pregnant woman. Maybe a change in my perceptions about my size and my abilities will stop me from hurting myself before I really hurt myself.
The other night I went to a Girl's Night Out. It was our eighth wedding anniversary, but we had celebrated the weekend before, and T said I should go since I won't be having too many more of those soon. It was a lot of fun. My friends wanted to feel the baby move, but she decided to be shy (must have gotten that from her father) and only one person was able to feel her kick. I was of course the first one to leave the party because I was super tired. I HAVE to be in bed and asleep by midnight or I fall asleep where ever I am.
I am starting to feel big this week. I wouldn't say I am as big as a house, but some days I feel as big as a condo or a townhouse. I noticed the other day that I have started to get a double chin and that my arms are starting to grow wider. It doesn't help that I have been getting hungrier the last few weeks, the scale went up more than the average a pound a week this time, and I wasn't able to go for my morning walk every day last week. I knew eventually my euphoria over the pregnancy weight would diminish, but I wish it could have at least waited two more weeks so I could be in the last trimester.
The other night I went to a Girl's Night Out. It was our eighth wedding anniversary, but we had celebrated the weekend before, and T said I should go since I won't be having too many more of those soon. It was a lot of fun. My friends wanted to feel the baby move, but she decided to be shy (must have gotten that from her father) and only one person was able to feel her kick. I was of course the first one to leave the party because I was super tired. I HAVE to be in bed and asleep by midnight or I fall asleep where ever I am.
I am starting to feel big this week. I wouldn't say I am as big as a house, but some days I feel as big as a condo or a townhouse. I noticed the other day that I have started to get a double chin and that my arms are starting to grow wider. It doesn't help that I have been getting hungrier the last few weeks, the scale went up more than the average a pound a week this time, and I wasn't able to go for my morning walk every day last week. I knew eventually my euphoria over the pregnancy weight would diminish, but I wish it could have at least waited two more weeks so I could be in the last trimester.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
24 Weeks
I had my monthly OB appointment on Monday, and everything looks great as always. I am right on track for size of belly and weight gain. If I manage to keep at this rate, I will gain 30 pounds total for the pregnancy, which is just about perfect. I am finding it a little harder to stay within the pound a week gain though because I have finally reached the "I'm hungry" stage. I have been doing a pretty good job of watching what I eat, but I find myself drinking far more sugary drinks than before. But I walk every morning to try to keep it in check, so hopefully I am balancing it all out.
The OB told me that the repetitious hitting sensation I am getting from the baby is probably hiccups. The poor kiddo seems to get them at least once a day, which isn't too surprising since her mother gets them at least once a day too. Speaking of things I get once a day, the heartburn has returned. I get it every evening now and have to take one Tums before I go to bed. I am totally paranoid about getting another kidney stone, so I try to take the minimum to be comfortable. (I sometimes get little aches in my back right where I felt the pain of the kidney stone, and I swear I am going to get another one. The OB wants to send me to the urologist after the baby gets here to check them out.)
School started again, so I saw lots of my friends this week while I met with my assistants. Lots of people commented on my belly. Many could not believe that I was already in my sixth month about to enter the third trimester. Others, who had seen me here and there over the summer, commented on how I finally looked like a pregnant woman. It was all pretty funny and flattering.
I also met another young mother last week and got invited to a play group. She had placed an ad for maternity clothes on Craigslist, so I went to her house (because she was bedridden) and checked them out. I got some really cute clothes, ten pieces to be exact, for $20! But then I spent the next two hours talking to the woman because we had so much in common. (Same undergrad degree, same alma mater, same beliefs in medicine, same age, etc.) Both of our husbands called while we talked to check that we were safe, and we laughed about that. It was great to meet another young mother in the area and get invited to the play group. I can't wait till the little girl is old enough to take to an event.
The OB told me that the repetitious hitting sensation I am getting from the baby is probably hiccups. The poor kiddo seems to get them at least once a day, which isn't too surprising since her mother gets them at least once a day too. Speaking of things I get once a day, the heartburn has returned. I get it every evening now and have to take one Tums before I go to bed. I am totally paranoid about getting another kidney stone, so I try to take the minimum to be comfortable. (I sometimes get little aches in my back right where I felt the pain of the kidney stone, and I swear I am going to get another one. The OB wants to send me to the urologist after the baby gets here to check them out.)
School started again, so I saw lots of my friends this week while I met with my assistants. Lots of people commented on my belly. Many could not believe that I was already in my sixth month about to enter the third trimester. Others, who had seen me here and there over the summer, commented on how I finally looked like a pregnant woman. It was all pretty funny and flattering.
I also met another young mother last week and got invited to a play group. She had placed an ad for maternity clothes on Craigslist, so I went to her house (because she was bedridden) and checked them out. I got some really cute clothes, ten pieces to be exact, for $20! But then I spent the next two hours talking to the woman because we had so much in common. (Same undergrad degree, same alma mater, same beliefs in medicine, same age, etc.) Both of our husbands called while we talked to check that we were safe, and we laughed about that. It was great to meet another young mother in the area and get invited to the play group. I can't wait till the little girl is old enough to take to an event.
Friday, August 14, 2009
23 Weeks
I can now see the baby kicking or punching. Not quite the scene from Alien, but entertaining at the least. She is beginning to pack quite a punch too. Luckily she can't reach my ribs, but she does jump up and down on my bladder in the evenings. Between that and the 80 ounces of fluids I drink in a day, I have to go the bathroom every 30 minutes until bedtime. I am only having to get up two times a night now because I cut myself off from fluids at about ten, giving me two hours to get most of it out.
I can't see my feet now when I stand up straight. I didn't expect it to happen this early, but I do have ridiculously small feet, so I guess I should have. It's a good thing I stopped wearing nail polish on my toes months ago, or I would forget to paint them (or have them painted) and that would be bad since we still have a few more months of good sandal weather here. Once colder weather gets here I may have to go get some more closed toe, slip on shoes, because my favorite pair or sneakers are too snug to wear anymore. Maybe my feet will actually get to a normal shoe size. Heck, even a half size bigger would be a step up for me.
I can't see my feet now when I stand up straight. I didn't expect it to happen this early, but I do have ridiculously small feet, so I guess I should have. It's a good thing I stopped wearing nail polish on my toes months ago, or I would forget to paint them (or have them painted) and that would be bad since we still have a few more months of good sandal weather here. Once colder weather gets here I may have to go get some more closed toe, slip on shoes, because my favorite pair or sneakers are too snug to wear anymore. Maybe my feet will actually get to a normal shoe size. Heck, even a half size bigger would be a step up for me.
Sunday, August 09, 2009
22 Weeks
Not much happened this week, which was fine with me. I went swimming with some friends this week, one of which is pregnant and another a mother of a toddler. The toddler was born premature at 26 weeks! That was extremely frightening to hear the story, knowing I was only a few weeks off. Hopefully that won't even be a problem for me.
I had to go shopping this week because my wardrobe is quickly shrinking as my belly is growing. I moved all the non-fitting clothes to another closet and I barely had anything. A kind friend (thanks Megan) gave me some maternity clothes, and I have bought a few pieces here and there, but I only had twenty pieces (most of which were large t-shirts.) I needed some more professional clothes so I went to a consignment shop and got some great deals. I took a picture of my closet space now, it still isn't much, but it makes for an amusing picture.
I had to go shopping this week because my wardrobe is quickly shrinking as my belly is growing. I moved all the non-fitting clothes to another closet and I barely had anything. A kind friend (thanks Megan) gave me some maternity clothes, and I have bought a few pieces here and there, but I only had twenty pieces (most of which were large t-shirts.) I needed some more professional clothes so I went to a consignment shop and got some great deals. I took a picture of my closet space now, it still isn't much, but it makes for an amusing picture.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
21 Weeks
This week was pretty miserable honestly. Thursday night my lower back started to hurt on my right side, and by Friday morning I knew the reason why: kidney stones. I had to go to the OB for the second time in a week so they could run some test to make sure I didn't have an infection on top of the stones. (Luckily I did not.) The only things they could recommend were water, Tylenol every 6 hours, water, heating pad, and water. I spent the whole weekend on the couch trying to get some comfort. It wasn't until Tuesday that I felt better, and still sometimes it hurts, but my back hurts all the time anyway now that the belly is getting bigger. Now I am adamant about getting plenty to drink in a day, which means lots more visits to the bathroom day or night. The upside, by the time the baby gets here I will be pretty used to not getting a normal nights sleep.
When I went to the OB they weighed me again and I had gained a pound from Monday (some of which may be from water retention cause I did have some swelling in my hands and face.) It hit me a day or two later that I am almost 140 pounds, which is right where I am supposed to be for weight gain, but it is the heaviest I have ever been in my life. The weird thing was not being concerned about it for the first time in my life. I have always been weight conscious, sometimes unhealthily so, but pregnancy has changed my frame of mind about it. Hopefully I can keep this healthy prospective for the rest of my life.
When I went to the OB they weighed me again and I had gained a pound from Monday (some of which may be from water retention cause I did have some swelling in my hands and face.) It hit me a day or two later that I am almost 140 pounds, which is right where I am supposed to be for weight gain, but it is the heaviest I have ever been in my life. The weird thing was not being concerned about it for the first time in my life. I have always been weight conscious, sometimes unhealthily so, but pregnancy has changed my frame of mind about it. Hopefully I can keep this healthy prospective for the rest of my life.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
20 Weeks
I have reached the halfway point (so long as I go the full 40 weeks, which I surely hope I do.) It is amazing to think that I have come so far but have so much more to grow.
We had our ultrasound on Monday, two days earlier than scheduled, due to a minor scare. Everything was fine, but they wanted to check me out just in case. T came with me because I was freaked out, and I am glad he did. Not only was he a great comfort but after they finished they asked if we wanted to get our ultrasound while we were there. My instincts were completely wrong and we are having a girl, but I am very happy. T and my mother are even happier, ecstatic even, since they both really wanted it to be a girl. Everything looked great in the ultrasound. She has all her fingers and toes (even had a glowing hand in one picture), her back shows no sign of spinae bifida, and her lip looked normal. She would not stop moving the whole time, which doesn't surprise me since I feel her several times a day usually. At one point she had her arms over her face so the tech had to jiggle my tummy a bit to get her to move them away. Of course, that made me laugh and then she wouldn't stop moving enough for them to get a good heart scan. She is right on track for her due date although the tech thought she looked a little small at first. So come early December we will have ourselves a little girl who will have her father wrapped around her finger from day one.
We had our ultrasound on Monday, two days earlier than scheduled, due to a minor scare. Everything was fine, but they wanted to check me out just in case. T came with me because I was freaked out, and I am glad he did. Not only was he a great comfort but after they finished they asked if we wanted to get our ultrasound while we were there. My instincts were completely wrong and we are having a girl, but I am very happy. T and my mother are even happier, ecstatic even, since they both really wanted it to be a girl. Everything looked great in the ultrasound. She has all her fingers and toes (even had a glowing hand in one picture), her back shows no sign of spinae bifida, and her lip looked normal. She would not stop moving the whole time, which doesn't surprise me since I feel her several times a day usually. At one point she had her arms over her face so the tech had to jiggle my tummy a bit to get her to move them away. Of course, that made me laugh and then she wouldn't stop moving enough for them to get a good heart scan. She is right on track for her due date although the tech thought she looked a little small at first. So come early December we will have ourselves a little girl who will have her father wrapped around her finger from day one.
Friday, July 17, 2009
19 Weeks and My Birthday
More moving, more grooving, and more growing. That pretty much sums up this week. Went to Harry Potter for my birthday and spent the whole moving feeling the little one move around. I think it was the noise of the theater. Or maybe it could tell how mad I was at the persons two rows back who kept whispering loudly. At least I managed not to have to get up once during the movie.
Before we went to the movie, I opened my presents (which were awesome and nothing baby related) and then we went to dinner with the two couples who were also going to the movie with us. I ate the most amazing crab cake sandwich and fries. I finished everything on my plate it was that good (and I was that hungry.) My favorite present has to the be the Russian Communist Leader nesting dolls I asked for. I have always wanted a set, and I found a really detailed one on eBay but they wanted way too much for it, so I looked on Amazon and found an equally interesting set for much less. They are so detailed that Gorbachev's right eye droops like it does in real life.
It still seems hard to believe that next birthday, the big 30, I will a mother. I know my birthdays will never be the same again, but I am alright with that.
Before we went to the movie, I opened my presents (which were awesome and nothing baby related) and then we went to dinner with the two couples who were also going to the movie with us. I ate the most amazing crab cake sandwich and fries. I finished everything on my plate it was that good (and I was that hungry.) My favorite present has to the be the Russian Communist Leader nesting dolls I asked for. I have always wanted a set, and I found a really detailed one on eBay but they wanted way too much for it, so I looked on Amazon and found an equally interesting set for much less. They are so detailed that Gorbachev's right eye droops like it does in real life.
It still seems hard to believe that next birthday, the big 30, I will a mother. I know my birthdays will never be the same again, but I am alright with that.
Friday, July 10, 2009
18 Weeks
The little one is moving and grooving more each day. I was helping a professor clean out his office (he retired and needs help packing and sorting) and I had to stop for a minute because of all the moment inside. T still can't feel it on the outside, but with how strong it is getting I can't imagine it will be much longer before he can.
Other than that it has just been slow growing, few aches and pains that come with said growth, and a distaste for chicken. It has been fun to compare my pregnancy with others who are at different stages. Right now I have 4 relatives and 5 friends who are expecting between September and February. I am the next to find out the gender, and so far it has gone girl, boy, girl. I can't wait to find out.
I went maternity clothes shopping with a friend and while we were out we jumped over to the baby department in one store. I saw the cutest sleep snuggly with rubber duckies so it just had to come home. I can't wait to pick out cute clothes.
Other than that it has just been slow growing, few aches and pains that come with said growth, and a distaste for chicken. It has been fun to compare my pregnancy with others who are at different stages. Right now I have 4 relatives and 5 friends who are expecting between September and February. I am the next to find out the gender, and so far it has gone girl, boy, girl. I can't wait to find out.
I went maternity clothes shopping with a friend and while we were out we jumped over to the baby department in one store. I saw the cutest sleep snuggly with rubber duckies so it just had to come home. I can't wait to pick out cute clothes.
Thursday, July 02, 2009
17 Weeks
I gained those two lost pounds back already, although it is almost surely water weight. I have been diligent about drinking the recommended amounts of water so I haven't had any more dizzy spells. I had a nice sore throat on Monday after I visited campus for a couple of hours and thought I was sick, but after talking to two other friends who also got sore throats for a few hours, it looks like it was a reaction to all the construction dust. Unfortunately, since I am pregnant my sore throat lasted a lot longer than a few hours.
I received the results of my AFP this week and they came back negative which means I am a low risk for the spinae bifida. That doesn't completely rule out the chance of having a kid with a genetic disorder, but I have better odds in Vegas. It was a nice feeling to get that information.
I have been cruising Craigslist day after day scoping out a crib. I found one a few weeks back that was exactly what we wanted for $75 but it has sold by the time I called. This week I lucked out and got the same crib for $60 plus a mattress (still wrapped in plastic.) The owner never got to use it because her baby didn't like being in a crib and they coslept instead. It has some minor dings and scratches from being shoved under their bed and being moved, but nothing we couldn't take care of. The mattress may have to go though because it turns out they smoked and I don't know if the mattress smells or not, or if I can get that smell out with the carpet cleaner. I am going to try just to see, but my guess and preference would be to get a new one. The crib however only slightly smelled and as soon as I disinfected it the smell went away.
The floors in the nursery are about half way done, and with the long weekend we might be able to get them completed. They look amazing and I can't wait till they are finished and we can start arranging the room for the little one. The theme is going to be rubber duckies and a I have a few things to decorate but not a whole lot yet. It gives me an excuse to be crafty again though, which I enjoy.
I received the results of my AFP this week and they came back negative which means I am a low risk for the spinae bifida. That doesn't completely rule out the chance of having a kid with a genetic disorder, but I have better odds in Vegas. It was a nice feeling to get that information.
I have been cruising Craigslist day after day scoping out a crib. I found one a few weeks back that was exactly what we wanted for $75 but it has sold by the time I called. This week I lucked out and got the same crib for $60 plus a mattress (still wrapped in plastic.) The owner never got to use it because her baby didn't like being in a crib and they coslept instead. It has some minor dings and scratches from being shoved under their bed and being moved, but nothing we couldn't take care of. The mattress may have to go though because it turns out they smoked and I don't know if the mattress smells or not, or if I can get that smell out with the carpet cleaner. I am going to try just to see, but my guess and preference would be to get a new one. The crib however only slightly smelled and as soon as I disinfected it the smell went away.
The floors in the nursery are about half way done, and with the long weekend we might be able to get them completed. They look amazing and I can't wait till they are finished and we can start arranging the room for the little one. The theme is going to be rubber duckies and a I have a few things to decorate but not a whole lot yet. It gives me an excuse to be crafty again though, which I enjoy.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
16 Weeks
I had another appointment this week. I had them draw the AFP test to see how high of a risk I am for spina bifida, which runs on my grandfather's side apparently. I am not worried, but I thought I should find out just in case. I also found out I lost two pounds from the last appointment. The doctor isn't concerned, but I sure was shocked. I thought for sure my bathroom scale was wrong. Trust me, I have been eating and keeping it down 95% of the time. They think it is from dehydration. My blood pressure was lower than last time, thank goodness, so everything is still going great. (And I heard the little heartbeat again.)
The only complaint I have had this week is a slight case of dizziness. Again, I seem to have gotten dehydrated, which is easy to do in this weather. So I have been sucking down so much water I swear my stomach makes a sloshing noise when I walk. Of course this also means that the nightly routine of getting up every few hours to remove said water has returned. Hopefully my body gets used to this amount of water soon and I won't have to get up so often.
Everyone still remarks on how little my stomach is, but it seems so much bigger to me. I can hide it pretty well with clothing still, but when I look in the mirror or when T pulls my clothes tight it is definitely there and getting bigger every day. I am sure it won't be too much longer before I have a cute belly like everyone else I know who is pregnant right now.
But I guess the best thing about this week was that I felt the baby. I have felt little things here and there and not been sure because they were near where my stomach muscles ache from being stretched. This time though I was sure because it was just below my belly button, right where the doctor had taken the heartbeat. This didn't feel like flutters though, which is another reason I was sure. This was more like someone was poking me ever so slightly over and over for a few minutes. T tried desperately to feel it himself, but I told him it was probably too soon for that. I can't wait till he does get to feel it. Now that I know what it feels like I notice it more and more, although most of the time it is more like a fluttering sensation.
I have another appointment on July 22 where we get our next ultrasound and get to see if I am correct about the gender. I can't wait!
The only complaint I have had this week is a slight case of dizziness. Again, I seem to have gotten dehydrated, which is easy to do in this weather. So I have been sucking down so much water I swear my stomach makes a sloshing noise when I walk. Of course this also means that the nightly routine of getting up every few hours to remove said water has returned. Hopefully my body gets used to this amount of water soon and I won't have to get up so often.
Everyone still remarks on how little my stomach is, but it seems so much bigger to me. I can hide it pretty well with clothing still, but when I look in the mirror or when T pulls my clothes tight it is definitely there and getting bigger every day. I am sure it won't be too much longer before I have a cute belly like everyone else I know who is pregnant right now.
But I guess the best thing about this week was that I felt the baby. I have felt little things here and there and not been sure because they were near where my stomach muscles ache from being stretched. This time though I was sure because it was just below my belly button, right where the doctor had taken the heartbeat. This didn't feel like flutters though, which is another reason I was sure. This was more like someone was poking me ever so slightly over and over for a few minutes. T tried desperately to feel it himself, but I told him it was probably too soon for that. I can't wait till he does get to feel it. Now that I know what it feels like I notice it more and more, although most of the time it is more like a fluttering sensation.
I have another appointment on July 22 where we get our next ultrasound and get to see if I am correct about the gender. I can't wait!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
15 Weeks
Starting to show a little more each day. I haven't been keeping up with the pound a week I am supposed to be gaining, so I am a little surprised by the growing belly, but encouraged as well. I have been working really hard in the yard lately and around the house and I often forget to eat my snacks between meals. At least that is better than never stopping right?
I am still not sure if I have felt the baby move yet. I feel little things sometimes, but they often come when I sneeze or something else like it. I am sure as the baby gets bigger, and the movements get bigger, I will be sure what they are.
We are still working on the nursery. We have the dresser/changing table refinished thanks to T and his hard work. It looks amazing. We have the nursery floor ready for the wood to be laid down, so in the next few weeks that should slowly get done. I will post before and after pics when all is said and done. I also painted a shelf for the room and it has little rubber duckies on it that I painted as well.
My friend mailed me a care package this week filled with maternity clothes, a baby blanket, little socks, some medical supplies, a diaper bag and a book. It was the sweetest thing. I can't believe how generous my friends are.
Other than that we have nothing to report. I go to another appointment next week and with any luck the one following will be where we find out if I am right about the gender.
I am still not sure if I have felt the baby move yet. I feel little things sometimes, but they often come when I sneeze or something else like it. I am sure as the baby gets bigger, and the movements get bigger, I will be sure what they are.
We are still working on the nursery. We have the dresser/changing table refinished thanks to T and his hard work. It looks amazing. We have the nursery floor ready for the wood to be laid down, so in the next few weeks that should slowly get done. I will post before and after pics when all is said and done. I also painted a shelf for the room and it has little rubber duckies on it that I painted as well.
My friend mailed me a care package this week filled with maternity clothes, a baby blanket, little socks, some medical supplies, a diaper bag and a book. It was the sweetest thing. I can't believe how generous my friends are.
Other than that we have nothing to report. I go to another appointment next week and with any luck the one following will be where we find out if I am right about the gender.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
14 Weeks
Somethings remain the same such as occasional morning sickness, the need for naps, etc. this week. Somethings are different such as naps being shorter and the inability to complete sentences or thoughts. But everything is still going well. I went to Colorado to see some family. I was fine on the flight out, not so lucky on the flight back, but at least I made it to the home airport and to the bathroom before I tossed my cookies. The airline was really nice about switching my seat too so that I didn't have to beg some poor sleepy soul to let me out every so often to walk around. I also realized that I am very lucky to be feeling as well as I do. My poor aunt, who is 22 weeks along, still has morning sickness and has to take medication occasionally. She is also starting to get swollen ankles and heartburn, which I know will be coming, but at least I feel good now.
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
13 weeks
Well depending on who you ask, I am either out of my first trimester, or will be out of as of the end of the week. I only threw up once this week and it was because I had gone too long without food. I have noticed I am getting hungry every few hours and I find myself forgetting to snack before my stomach starts growling. I am pretty sure I will be gaining that pound a week they said starts about now. I just hope that is all I gain. I dread getting large because I am not exactly an avid runner or walker and I can't imagine I will somehow pick up the habit when the baby comes.
I did go for a walk this week, but only managed it once so far. I had an early morning dentist appointment today, which took so long due to all pregnancy related issues that when I got home it was already close to 90 degrees and super humid. This weekend I imagine I will be hiking a lot at my family reunion, so I will get some exercise there, and I plan on getting up quite often during the flights. Maybe when I get back I will have such Rocky Mountain high I will keep walking each and every day for the rest of the pregnancy. (I know, I giggled too.)
I bought a few maternity shirts and shorts for the summer this week. I don't want to get too many things, so I just bought two of each. There are some really cute things out there, but there are some really horrible things too. I found one shirt that was multiple reds, yellows and oranges in this weird pattern but looked like something a clown would wear. I am noticing that most of the maternity shirts are simply longer versions of the empire waist baby dolls that so many girls are wearing these days any ways. It has been nice since I own about four of these shirts already, so I just wear these and put a cami under the ones that show the elastic of my pants. Kind of nice to still be fashionable.
And finally, a picture of the baby bump. (I don't post pictures of myself on here, hence the cropping.)
I did go for a walk this week, but only managed it once so far. I had an early morning dentist appointment today, which took so long due to all pregnancy related issues that when I got home it was already close to 90 degrees and super humid. This weekend I imagine I will be hiking a lot at my family reunion, so I will get some exercise there, and I plan on getting up quite often during the flights. Maybe when I get back I will have such Rocky Mountain high I will keep walking each and every day for the rest of the pregnancy. (I know, I giggled too.)
I bought a few maternity shirts and shorts for the summer this week. I don't want to get too many things, so I just bought two of each. There are some really cute things out there, but there are some really horrible things too. I found one shirt that was multiple reds, yellows and oranges in this weird pattern but looked like something a clown would wear. I am noticing that most of the maternity shirts are simply longer versions of the empire waist baby dolls that so many girls are wearing these days any ways. It has been nice since I own about four of these shirts already, so I just wear these and put a cami under the ones that show the elastic of my pants. Kind of nice to still be fashionable.
And finally, a picture of the baby bump. (I don't post pictures of myself on here, hence the cropping.)
Thursday, May 28, 2009
12 Weeks
This is the last week of my first trimester. I can't believe it has been three months already. It feels like I took the pregnancy test last week.
The morning sickness only seems to hit me when I have to get out of bed earlier than usual or in a rush, which could not be avoided when I had an OB appointment downtown on Tuesday. At least I feel better after and the constant nausea is completely gone. I have, however, found out what heartburn feels like for the first time. Of course I don't have any Tums in my house so I am relying on ice cream until tomorrow. I think it came on because I laid down on the couch immediately after eating.
Tuesday was my first appointment with my new OB office. I had to switch because my previous OB/Gyno was in another town and they only deliver at one hospital that was 40 minutes away in absolutely no traffic, up to 1.5 hours if there was traffic. So I switched to an OB who delivers at the hospital I wanted to deliver at, and they came highly recommended. Now that I have been to an appointment with them, I can see why. They have seven physicians that you meet during the course of your care because which ever one is on call is the one who delivers. I met with the head nurse who discussed what my genetic testing options were, what that day's appointment would entail and how the OB suite operated. From now on I am separated from the lowly masses and get to enter through a special entrance exclusively for pregnant women. You never have to wait very long before they have your vitals taken and if they need to take any urine they do it right away so you don't have to sit there holding it. Plus the nurse on that side of the office lives two doors down from me, so I get hugs when she sees me.
Since I had only had an ultrasound at that point this appointment meant a full exam and lab work. The exam was easy and I got to hear the heartbeat again with the doppler. The doctor warned that it might be hard since they can hide, but as soon as he put down the wand you could hear the heartbeat. I don't know that I will ever tire or stop feeling comfort when I hear that noise. The lab tech had to take seven viles of blood and despite it really hurting afterward, I didn't have any bruising whatsoever. I was amazed and believe the woman must really have been a vampire to remove so much without leaving a mark.
We are starting to get stuff ready in the nursery now. T and I bought bamboo flooring for the room and will install it as soon as it gets here. In the meantime, T is going to refinish the dresser that matches the desk he already refinished. We are going to use it as a dresser but also as the changing table. One of our friends wanted desperately to clean out her attic of baby stuff, so she gave us a stroller, a car seat (that fits in the stroller), two bases for the car seat, a bouncer, a play mat, a swing with lights and sounds, a diaper champ, and some clothes. The only big things we have left are the crib and a highchair, because T bought me the rocker and ottoman for my Mother's Day present. I have been making several gift registries looking for all the small stuff for the baby showers but haven't added any clothes until we know the gender.
After this week we are going to start taking pics of the baby bump, so the next installment will have one.
The morning sickness only seems to hit me when I have to get out of bed earlier than usual or in a rush, which could not be avoided when I had an OB appointment downtown on Tuesday. At least I feel better after and the constant nausea is completely gone. I have, however, found out what heartburn feels like for the first time. Of course I don't have any Tums in my house so I am relying on ice cream until tomorrow. I think it came on because I laid down on the couch immediately after eating.
Tuesday was my first appointment with my new OB office. I had to switch because my previous OB/Gyno was in another town and they only deliver at one hospital that was 40 minutes away in absolutely no traffic, up to 1.5 hours if there was traffic. So I switched to an OB who delivers at the hospital I wanted to deliver at, and they came highly recommended. Now that I have been to an appointment with them, I can see why. They have seven physicians that you meet during the course of your care because which ever one is on call is the one who delivers. I met with the head nurse who discussed what my genetic testing options were, what that day's appointment would entail and how the OB suite operated. From now on I am separated from the lowly masses and get to enter through a special entrance exclusively for pregnant women. You never have to wait very long before they have your vitals taken and if they need to take any urine they do it right away so you don't have to sit there holding it. Plus the nurse on that side of the office lives two doors down from me, so I get hugs when she sees me.
Since I had only had an ultrasound at that point this appointment meant a full exam and lab work. The exam was easy and I got to hear the heartbeat again with the doppler. The doctor warned that it might be hard since they can hide, but as soon as he put down the wand you could hear the heartbeat. I don't know that I will ever tire or stop feeling comfort when I hear that noise. The lab tech had to take seven viles of blood and despite it really hurting afterward, I didn't have any bruising whatsoever. I was amazed and believe the woman must really have been a vampire to remove so much without leaving a mark.
We are starting to get stuff ready in the nursery now. T and I bought bamboo flooring for the room and will install it as soon as it gets here. In the meantime, T is going to refinish the dresser that matches the desk he already refinished. We are going to use it as a dresser but also as the changing table. One of our friends wanted desperately to clean out her attic of baby stuff, so she gave us a stroller, a car seat (that fits in the stroller), two bases for the car seat, a bouncer, a play mat, a swing with lights and sounds, a diaper champ, and some clothes. The only big things we have left are the crib and a highchair, because T bought me the rocker and ottoman for my Mother's Day present. I have been making several gift registries looking for all the small stuff for the baby showers but haven't added any clothes until we know the gender.
After this week we are going to start taking pics of the baby bump, so the next installment will have one.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
11 weeks
The morning sickness appears to be making a once daily appearance again, but at least the constant nausea is gone. I will be so glad when I no longer have to sit in front of the toilet.
I braved getting on the scale the other day to find out I have only gained 3 pounds so far. Not too shabby. I have started getting bouts occasionally where I am really hungry, but I usually eat healthy foods like apples and string cheese, so hopefully I can keep my weight gain at a good pace. I know it will be far easier to keep it in check then to try to shed more after.
I went to IKEA with a friend the other day to check out what they had for the baby's room. I found a few things I liked, but for the most part it wasn't the right color of wood. I did buy a few duckie pictures they had and some really cheap frames to put them in to decorate the room. (We decided to do a rubber duckie themed room.) I am going to the fabric store tomorrow to see what cross stitch patterns and duckie fabric they have available.
We should be getting a few things next week when one friend takes me to the consignment store where she finds amazing finds and another is giving us a bunch of her old stuff. I don't know where we are going to put this stuff yet, because we still need to put in the wood floors before we move in furniture and goods. We are sweating how little room for storage we have right now and how much worse it is going to get in the next few years. We need to figure out a better way to store things in the attic or the closets. Or maybe we will buy a bigger house.
I braved getting on the scale the other day to find out I have only gained 3 pounds so far. Not too shabby. I have started getting bouts occasionally where I am really hungry, but I usually eat healthy foods like apples and string cheese, so hopefully I can keep my weight gain at a good pace. I know it will be far easier to keep it in check then to try to shed more after.
I went to IKEA with a friend the other day to check out what they had for the baby's room. I found a few things I liked, but for the most part it wasn't the right color of wood. I did buy a few duckie pictures they had and some really cheap frames to put them in to decorate the room. (We decided to do a rubber duckie themed room.) I am going to the fabric store tomorrow to see what cross stitch patterns and duckie fabric they have available.
We should be getting a few things next week when one friend takes me to the consignment store where she finds amazing finds and another is giving us a bunch of her old stuff. I don't know where we are going to put this stuff yet, because we still need to put in the wood floors before we move in furniture and goods. We are sweating how little room for storage we have right now and how much worse it is going to get in the next few years. We need to figure out a better way to store things in the attic or the closets. Or maybe we will buy a bigger house.
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