FULL TERM BABY!!! Can I get a woo woo!
Any time you want to come out now Bria, please feel free to do so :)
Surprisingly I actually slept better this week than I have in awhile. A few nights this week I only made 1 bathroom trip!! That is unheard of so I was thrilled beyond words. I noticed I wasn't quite as tired during the day so I'm very thankful for these good nights and hope they continue. I'm still going for walks, 7 days a week :) In addition to my evening walks I try and get out on one of my breaks at work and take a walk which feels really good. I would say 4 days a week I am walking 35 minutes and 3 days a week I'm totaling 55 minutes, not bad for a 9 month pregnant lady. My next goal is to get Brian to walk with me, at least on the weekends, I need a walking partner.
Symptoms:
Smaller appetite. I am noticing I'm not quite as hungry anymore which is nice. Although I'm still gaining weight so apparently it doesn't matter how much walking I do or how healthy I eat. A little frustrating, but worth it. I eat more often but I eat smaller portions since there's not a lot of room in there.
Braxton Hicks. Lots of Braxton Hicks this week, still not painful just a little uncomfortable. My belly just gets rock hard and it feels like everything in there is squeezing so tight.
Swelling. My ankles will occasionally swell throughout the day, but by the next morning they are almost back to normal. My hands are swelling a little as well during the day, enough so that I am wearing a fake wedding ring that is a size bigger than mine. This way I still look married and people don't glare at me for being a pregnant teen (since I look about 17).
As far as food goes this week there is nothing new, just my usual cereal and toast. I'm making sure to put peanut butter on my toast so I get protein.
I think that is about it for symptoms this week, not too many.
Baby:
Congratulations — your baby is full term! This means that if your baby arrives now, her lungs should be fully mature and ready to adjust to life outside the womb, even though your due date is still three weeks away.
Your baby weighs 6 1/3 pounds and measures a bit over 19 inches, head to heel (like a stalk of Swiss chard). Many babies have a full head of hair at birth, with locks from 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches long. But don't be surprised if your baby's hair isn't the same color as yours. Dark-haired couples are sometimes thrown for a loop when their children come out as blonds or redheads, and fair-haired couples have been surprised by Elvis look-alikes. And then, of course, some babies sport only peach fuzz.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
36w 4d
Well yesterday was our 3rd childbirth class and we are still enjoying it. We got a tour of the labor and delivery floor and saw all the rooms and everything which was fun. We also watched another video of a baby being born and then the placenta being delivered. Oddly enough watching it only made me more excited, just the thought of finally getting to see Bria is incredibly thrilling beyond words.
I had lots of braxton hicks yesterday and in the evening, but then they completely stopped once I was in bed. She was also really active yesterday and I just love when her little feet kick because they are so tiny. I can't wait to rub and kiss those little things.
This last weekend we hung a few more items in the nursery and I was all giddy with excitement. On one side of the window we hung a pink canvas frame that her foot prints go in, and on the other side of the window we hung a little white shelf and put her name on it. Originally we were going to hang the letters above the crib but we really like the pink letters on the white shelf, they just pop. So now I think we'll use the 3 little square fabrics that came with the bedding to hang above the crib which should look nice. Then the last thing are the curtains. I'm not a huge fan of the curtain that the bedding came with, it's cute but just wasn't doing it for me. So I decided I want floor length brown suede curtains, of the tab top variety. I think that will look really good since we hung the pink on either side of the window. I'll try and remember to take some pictures of the nursery this weekend. I'm so excited with how it is coming along. Plus, I need to take a picture of this little girl's closet, it's stuffed full.
On Friday we are meeting with the maternity care coordinator and I'm excited to iron out all the details and get pre-registered. That will be another thing I can cross off my list. Speaking of the list, let's take a look at how I'm doing:
1. Verify the pediatrician is covered by Brian's insurance-Done, she is!
2. Call pediatrician-Done, although we don't do anything until we actually have Bria in the hospital, at which point we just tell them who our pediatrician is.
3. Find a list of what to pack for the hospital-Done
4. Pack hospital bag-In progress (probably will be until we actually leave for the hospital)
5. Create a phone list for people to call when I go into labor-done
6. Iron out details for when I go into labor-Done, we will drop MJ off at my moms and head to the hospital. Once we get confirmation I am in active labor we will get settled, and then start making the calls. In the room with us will be: my mom, Brian's mom, Jaime, and Jenny. My Dad and Anna will also come visit of course and maybe Heather if it's on a Saturday :)
7. Pick coming home outfit for Bria-Done, although I'm open to changing it if we get something before then.
8. Clean and organize house-In progress (always, this is broken down into more detail below)
9. Wash bottles and teething rings
10. Call Maternity Coordinator to go over birth plan and get a hospital tour-Done, meeting with her on Friday.
11. Pre-register (this will be done on Friday when we meet with the maternity coordinator)
12. Get MJ's bag ready
13. Check to see if insurance pays for some of breast pump
14. Organize little table in computer room
15. Organize kitchen
16. Organize downstairs closet
17. Organize upstairs hall closet-Done
So here is the new revised list with some additions (how am I ever going to complete the list if I keep adding to it?!):
1. Pack hospital bag-In progress (probably will be until we actually leave for the hospital)
2. Clean and organize house-In progress (always, this is broken down into more detail below)
3. Wash bottles and teething rings
4. Pre-register (this will be done on Friday when we meet with the maternity coordinator)
5. Get MJ's bag ready
6. Check to see if insurance pays for some of breast pump
7. Organize little table in computer room
8. Organize kitchen
9. Organize downstairs closet
10. Hang 3 fabric pieces above crib
11. Buy and hang curtains
Not too shabby :)
I had lots of braxton hicks yesterday and in the evening, but then they completely stopped once I was in bed. She was also really active yesterday and I just love when her little feet kick because they are so tiny. I can't wait to rub and kiss those little things.
This last weekend we hung a few more items in the nursery and I was all giddy with excitement. On one side of the window we hung a pink canvas frame that her foot prints go in, and on the other side of the window we hung a little white shelf and put her name on it. Originally we were going to hang the letters above the crib but we really like the pink letters on the white shelf, they just pop. So now I think we'll use the 3 little square fabrics that came with the bedding to hang above the crib which should look nice. Then the last thing are the curtains. I'm not a huge fan of the curtain that the bedding came with, it's cute but just wasn't doing it for me. So I decided I want floor length brown suede curtains, of the tab top variety. I think that will look really good since we hung the pink on either side of the window. I'll try and remember to take some pictures of the nursery this weekend. I'm so excited with how it is coming along. Plus, I need to take a picture of this little girl's closet, it's stuffed full.
On Friday we are meeting with the maternity care coordinator and I'm excited to iron out all the details and get pre-registered. That will be another thing I can cross off my list. Speaking of the list, let's take a look at how I'm doing:
1. Verify the pediatrician is covered by Brian's insurance-Done, she is!
2. Call pediatrician-Done, although we don't do anything until we actually have Bria in the hospital, at which point we just tell them who our pediatrician is.
3. Find a list of what to pack for the hospital-Done
4. Pack hospital bag-In progress (probably will be until we actually leave for the hospital)
5. Create a phone list for people to call when I go into labor-done
6. Iron out details for when I go into labor-Done, we will drop MJ off at my moms and head to the hospital. Once we get confirmation I am in active labor we will get settled, and then start making the calls. In the room with us will be: my mom, Brian's mom, Jaime, and Jenny. My Dad and Anna will also come visit of course and maybe Heather if it's on a Saturday :)
7. Pick coming home outfit for Bria-Done, although I'm open to changing it if we get something before then.
8. Clean and organize house-In progress (always, this is broken down into more detail below)
9. Wash bottles and teething rings
10. Call Maternity Coordinator to go over birth plan and get a hospital tour-Done, meeting with her on Friday.
11. Pre-register (this will be done on Friday when we meet with the maternity coordinator)
12. Get MJ's bag ready
13. Check to see if insurance pays for some of breast pump
14. Organize little table in computer room
15. Organize kitchen
16. Organize downstairs closet
17. Organize upstairs hall closet-Done
So here is the new revised list with some additions (how am I ever going to complete the list if I keep adding to it?!):
1. Pack hospital bag-In progress (probably will be until we actually leave for the hospital)
2. Clean and organize house-In progress (always, this is broken down into more detail below)
3. Wash bottles and teething rings
4. Pre-register (this will be done on Friday when we meet with the maternity coordinator)
5. Get MJ's bag ready
6. Check to see if insurance pays for some of breast pump
7. Organize little table in computer room
8. Organize kitchen
9. Organize downstairs closet
10. Hang 3 fabric pieces above crib
11. Buy and hang curtains
Not too shabby :)
Friday, January 23, 2009
Week 36
The appointment went well today, nothing too eventful. She did the strep B test which was just a quick swab. My belly measured right on track once again and her heart beat sounded good. At this point if I went into labor they would not stop it, I can't believe I'm at that point. 1 more week and she's considered full term.
Symptoms:
Uncomfortable. My belly is growing and growing, which means Bria is getting bigger and bigger! This also means she's getting heavier to cart around and by the end of the day I'm exhausted and just feel like collapsing on the couch in a coma like state. I've taken a bath the last two nights and that felt wonderful, I'm going to start taking more of those. Turning over in bed is actually kind of painful and I have to have the body pillow under the belly to support it otherwise my muscles strain to support the belly.
The belly belt has been great for my walks and helps tremendously to support the ever growing belly bump. I'm very grateful for that.
Cramps/Braxton Hicks (BH). I get a few BH's throughout the day and they are a little more uncomfortable than they were in the beginning, but still not horrible. My belly just gets really tight and occasionally I'll get some good cramping going on. I doubt they are doing anything besides warming me up for the big show.
Exhausted. As I mentioned, I am completely drained by the end of the day, and even more so by the end of the week. During the work day I want to take a nap so bad I could cry. Needless to say I am not productive in the evenings after my walk. I'm hoping to spend the weekends nesting and cleaning since nothing is done during the week. On the weekends I usually fight naps because they seem like a waste of time, but I've given in the past few weekends and it feels great. I love my naps.
Lots of movement. Bria moved a lot this week and I of course loved it. I've heard towards the end they reduce their movement since they run out of room so I'm glad she's still wiggling away. The right side of my belly is really sore and hurts, I think it's from all her kicking :) Wednesday night I was dreaming about her moving all around in my belly and sure enough I woke up to her swimming around in there. I felt punches really low, where her head is, which made me nervous that she had turned around and those were her feet or something. So I couldn't get back to sleep because I was stressing out and praying she was head down and not breech. Although, first and foremost I want a healthy baby. Anyway, at the appointment today the doctor confirmed she is still head down and in the same position-whew.
New food obsessions:
1. Wheat English muffins toasted, one with butter and honey, the other with peanut butter and honey-yum
2. Honey Bunches of Oats cereal
Baby:
Your baby is gaining about an ounce a day. She now weighs almost 6 pounds (like a crenshaw melon) and is more than 18 1/2 inches long. She's shedding most of the downy hair that covered her body, as well as the vernix caseosa, the waxy substance that protected her skin during her nine-month amniotic bath. Next week, your baby will be considered full-term. Most likely she's in a head-down position, but if she isn't, your practitioner may suggest scheduling an external cephalic version, where she'll try to turn your baby by manipulating her from the outside of your belly.
Symptoms:
Uncomfortable. My belly is growing and growing, which means Bria is getting bigger and bigger! This also means she's getting heavier to cart around and by the end of the day I'm exhausted and just feel like collapsing on the couch in a coma like state. I've taken a bath the last two nights and that felt wonderful, I'm going to start taking more of those. Turning over in bed is actually kind of painful and I have to have the body pillow under the belly to support it otherwise my muscles strain to support the belly.
The belly belt has been great for my walks and helps tremendously to support the ever growing belly bump. I'm very grateful for that.
Cramps/Braxton Hicks (BH). I get a few BH's throughout the day and they are a little more uncomfortable than they were in the beginning, but still not horrible. My belly just gets really tight and occasionally I'll get some good cramping going on. I doubt they are doing anything besides warming me up for the big show.
Exhausted. As I mentioned, I am completely drained by the end of the day, and even more so by the end of the week. During the work day I want to take a nap so bad I could cry. Needless to say I am not productive in the evenings after my walk. I'm hoping to spend the weekends nesting and cleaning since nothing is done during the week. On the weekends I usually fight naps because they seem like a waste of time, but I've given in the past few weekends and it feels great. I love my naps.
Lots of movement. Bria moved a lot this week and I of course loved it. I've heard towards the end they reduce their movement since they run out of room so I'm glad she's still wiggling away. The right side of my belly is really sore and hurts, I think it's from all her kicking :) Wednesday night I was dreaming about her moving all around in my belly and sure enough I woke up to her swimming around in there. I felt punches really low, where her head is, which made me nervous that she had turned around and those were her feet or something. So I couldn't get back to sleep because I was stressing out and praying she was head down and not breech. Although, first and foremost I want a healthy baby. Anyway, at the appointment today the doctor confirmed she is still head down and in the same position-whew.
New food obsessions:
1. Wheat English muffins toasted, one with butter and honey, the other with peanut butter and honey-yum
2. Honey Bunches of Oats cereal
Baby:
Your baby is gaining about an ounce a day. She now weighs almost 6 pounds (like a crenshaw melon) and is more than 18 1/2 inches long. She's shedding most of the downy hair that covered her body, as well as the vernix caseosa, the waxy substance that protected her skin during her nine-month amniotic bath. Next week, your baby will be considered full-term. Most likely she's in a head-down position, but if she isn't, your practitioner may suggest scheduling an external cephalic version, where she'll try to turn your baby by manipulating her from the outside of your belly.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Maternity Photos
I cannot begin to tell you how in love with these pictures I am. That is saying A LOT considering I don't like any pictures of me right now. It just goes to show you how incredibly talented Jaime is. I sent these to Brian while he was at work and one of his first responses was how Jaime needs to do this professionally. We did these at Jaime's house even though they look like they were done in a studio. I've showed some of my friends and they also comment on what an amazing photographer Jaime is-seriously. I just love how they turned out and I am so grateful to her for this wonderful and irreplaceable gift. I'm thrilled to have pictures of the belly and can't wait to show Bria when she gets older :)
These are just a few of them:
These are just a few of them:
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
35w 4d
So as I said in the previous post, my co-workers were so kind and threw me a baby shower last week. I am so incredibly grateful to them, they are all so generous and we got some adorable outfits and blankets for little Bria.
Me with my adorable diaper cake:
One of the many adorable outfits:
Another adorable little outfit:
The Rainforest Jumperoo!
Anyway, it was a lot of fun and I'm just so appreciative to everyone for their support and generosity.
Last night we had our second childbirth class and we again had a great time. We started the evening by separating the guys and girls and each group had to make a pros and cons list of the pregnancy. So we would shout out different things for the writer to put on the board for both positives and negatives. After we had put down a bunch of stuff for both I added that the larger breasts are a huge positive so we all laughed and put that down. Then they brought the guys in and they also had that on the positive side which was funny. But what was hilarious is that Brian is the one that said that! So he brought it to the attention of the class that we had each said that and everyone got a kick out of it, guess we're meant to be :)
We went over more relaxation techniques which are incredibly helpful. The women massaged our coaches for awhile before it was their turn to massage us. She instructed different methods for different stages of contractions and then we went over more breathing tips. Next week we get a tour of Labor and Delivery so that should be fun. I'm really enjoying these classes.
I know I should be scared and nervous about the labor and delivery part of it all, but I am just completely ecstatic. Obviously not about the pain, but I'm over the top excited to meet this little girl that I don't even have room to feel scared. I know I probably sound crazy, but I can't help it. I'm so looking forward to holding Bria and seeing what she looks like that I'm not nervous about the pain. Oh well, I'm sure once I start contracting that I'll get scared :)
Things are still going well with the pregnancy and I have more good days than bad. The bad days are just those days where I'm tired and ready to be done being pregnant, but those are expected right?
I'm still going for my 2 mile walks every night (or in the mornings on the weekends) and I'm glad that I've kept that up. I don't even waddle on the walks, I actually speed walk. Well, it's speed walking for me and my short legs.
I have my next appointment this Friday and they are doing the Strep B test. It's possible that I might have an internal exam since I'll be 36 weeks but it depends on which doctor I see and what they do. So who knows, I don't really care either way since it really won't tell me a lot. Some women can be 2 cm dilated for weeks while others are 0 dilated and go into labor within 2 days. I start going every week to my appointments which is just crazy, we are getting so close!
Here is the cake:
One of my co-workers, Chris, made a diaper cake and it was a huge hit. Here it is in my cubicle:
Me with my adorable diaper cake:
One of the many adorable outfits:
Another adorable little outfit:
The Rainforest Jumperoo!
Anyway, it was a lot of fun and I'm just so appreciative to everyone for their support and generosity.
Last night we had our second childbirth class and we again had a great time. We started the evening by separating the guys and girls and each group had to make a pros and cons list of the pregnancy. So we would shout out different things for the writer to put on the board for both positives and negatives. After we had put down a bunch of stuff for both I added that the larger breasts are a huge positive so we all laughed and put that down. Then they brought the guys in and they also had that on the positive side which was funny. But what was hilarious is that Brian is the one that said that! So he brought it to the attention of the class that we had each said that and everyone got a kick out of it, guess we're meant to be :)
We went over more relaxation techniques which are incredibly helpful. The women massaged our coaches for awhile before it was their turn to massage us. She instructed different methods for different stages of contractions and then we went over more breathing tips. Next week we get a tour of Labor and Delivery so that should be fun. I'm really enjoying these classes.
I know I should be scared and nervous about the labor and delivery part of it all, but I am just completely ecstatic. Obviously not about the pain, but I'm over the top excited to meet this little girl that I don't even have room to feel scared. I know I probably sound crazy, but I can't help it. I'm so looking forward to holding Bria and seeing what she looks like that I'm not nervous about the pain. Oh well, I'm sure once I start contracting that I'll get scared :)
Things are still going well with the pregnancy and I have more good days than bad. The bad days are just those days where I'm tired and ready to be done being pregnant, but those are expected right?
I'm still going for my 2 mile walks every night (or in the mornings on the weekends) and I'm glad that I've kept that up. I don't even waddle on the walks, I actually speed walk. Well, it's speed walking for me and my short legs.
I have my next appointment this Friday and they are doing the Strep B test. It's possible that I might have an internal exam since I'll be 36 weeks but it depends on which doctor I see and what they do. So who knows, I don't really care either way since it really won't tell me a lot. Some women can be 2 cm dilated for weeks while others are 0 dilated and go into labor within 2 days. I start going every week to my appointments which is just crazy, we are getting so close!
Friday, January 16, 2009
Week 35
Check it out, 35 weeks along and 35 days to go, wahoo!
I made it, 35 weeks was the next big milestone for me and I can't believe I'm here. Wow. 2 more weeks and Bria will be considered full term, 5 more weeks until my due date.
My co-workers had a shower for me at work yesterday and it was a lot of fun. It made me feel very loved to have so many people there and excited for our new arrival. We got tons of great stuff and I had a blast showing it all to Brian last night. I do have some pictures so I'll try and upload those this weekend. The big item was the Rainforest Jumperoo:
I registered for this at Target but I recently got an email saying they weren't going to be carrying it anymore so I should go and find something else, I was bummed. So you can imagine my surprise when I opened this yesterday! Apparently they purchased it before Target ran out and I'm so glad they did. It came from the whole Contract & Procurement department. We also got lots of clothes, blankets, binkies, diaper rash cream, and more clothes! This little girl has a full wardrobe, let me tell you. That closet is full and she better enjoy it now because it won't always be like that. ;) Anyway, I'm so grateful to my co-workers for all the wonderful gifts and I can't wait to use them, not too much longer now.
Symptoms
Insomnia. Well, I don't think I would say it's that extreme, but I'm definitely not sleeping very well. It takes at least an hour and a half, usually 2 hours to get to sleep. That doesn't include the time I spend reading in bed to try and make myself sleepy enough to go to bed. Usually as I'm starting to wind down and may be about to enter dreamland, I have to go to the bathroom, so I start the whole process over again. My 3 trips to the bathroom in the night wake me up since getting out of bed is a huge task, as is switching sides. I think I shake the whole bed whenever I move, luckily Brian has gotten use to that and usually sleeps right through it.
More frequent urination. I am definitely taking more trips to the bathroom and I know that will only get worse. As our childbirth instructor told us, towards the end our bladder is flattened to a pancake and we'll be going to the bathroom every 1/2 hour. Brian was in shock.
Food. I was definitely hungry this week, I packed healthy snacks for work but found myself very hungry every 2 hours so I ran out of snacks fast. I swear that half our grocery bill is just snack food. But I've always loved snacks so no big surprise there. My favorite foods right now are:
Here is my list from a few weeks ago (the ones in gray are done):
1. Verify the pediatrician is covered by Brian's insurance-Done, she is!
2. Call pediatrician-Done, although we don't do anything until we actually have Bria in the hospital, at which point we just tell them who our pediatrician is.
3. Find a list of what to pack for the hospital-Done
4. Pack hospital bag-In progress (probably will be until we actually leave for the hospital)
5. Create a phone list for people to call when I go into labor-done
6. Iron out details for when I go into labor
7. Pick coming home outfit for Bria (this will probably wait until after the baby showers)
8. Clean and organize house-In progress (always, this is broken down into more detail below)
and I've added a few new items:
9. Wash bottles and teething rings
10. Call Maternity Coordinator to go over birth plan and get a hospital tour-In progress, we are playing phone tag
11. Pre-register
12. Get MJ's bag ready
13. Check to see if insurance pays for some of breast pump
14. Organize little table in computer room
15. Organize kitchen
16. Organize downstairs closet
17. Organize upstairs hall closet-Done
I'm feeling better about my list now that I've actually completed some of them, plus it feels good to have it laid out in front of me so I can see what there is left to do. The only thing that is stressing me out is the travel system. I have dreams about it, in fact I just had one last night: we were headed to the hospital to have little Bria but we had not gotten the travel system yet so we didn't have a car seat. That is really the only thing left that we HAVE to have before Bria comes so that is probably why it's on my mind. The one we registered for at Babies R Us is on sale until the 19th so I am tempted to go buy it, we'll see. By the way, I like Target and all but they have crap for travel systems. Seriously. Even online they have a very small selection, especially in the brands that I want: Chicco or Graco.
Anyway, that is about all I have for this week. Tomorrow my sister is doing a little maternity photo session for me and I'm really excited, so I'll be posting those pictures sometime in the future.
Baby:
Your baby doesn't have much room to maneuver now that she's over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds (pick up a honeydew melon). Because it's so snug in your womb, she isn't likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of times she kicks should remain about the same. Her kidneys are fully developed now, and her liver can process some waste products. Most of her basic physical development is now complete — she'll spend the next few weeks putting on weight.
I made it, 35 weeks was the next big milestone for me and I can't believe I'm here. Wow. 2 more weeks and Bria will be considered full term, 5 more weeks until my due date.
My co-workers had a shower for me at work yesterday and it was a lot of fun. It made me feel very loved to have so many people there and excited for our new arrival. We got tons of great stuff and I had a blast showing it all to Brian last night. I do have some pictures so I'll try and upload those this weekend. The big item was the Rainforest Jumperoo:
I registered for this at Target but I recently got an email saying they weren't going to be carrying it anymore so I should go and find something else, I was bummed. So you can imagine my surprise when I opened this yesterday! Apparently they purchased it before Target ran out and I'm so glad they did. It came from the whole Contract & Procurement department. We also got lots of clothes, blankets, binkies, diaper rash cream, and more clothes! This little girl has a full wardrobe, let me tell you. That closet is full and she better enjoy it now because it won't always be like that. ;) Anyway, I'm so grateful to my co-workers for all the wonderful gifts and I can't wait to use them, not too much longer now.
Symptoms
Insomnia. Well, I don't think I would say it's that extreme, but I'm definitely not sleeping very well. It takes at least an hour and a half, usually 2 hours to get to sleep. That doesn't include the time I spend reading in bed to try and make myself sleepy enough to go to bed. Usually as I'm starting to wind down and may be about to enter dreamland, I have to go to the bathroom, so I start the whole process over again. My 3 trips to the bathroom in the night wake me up since getting out of bed is a huge task, as is switching sides. I think I shake the whole bed whenever I move, luckily Brian has gotten use to that and usually sleeps right through it.
More frequent urination. I am definitely taking more trips to the bathroom and I know that will only get worse. As our childbirth instructor told us, towards the end our bladder is flattened to a pancake and we'll be going to the bathroom every 1/2 hour. Brian was in shock.
Food. I was definitely hungry this week, I packed healthy snacks for work but found myself very hungry every 2 hours so I ran out of snacks fast. I swear that half our grocery bill is just snack food. But I've always loved snacks so no big surprise there. My favorite foods right now are:
- Cereal-big surprise! I have been enjoying Lucky Charms, Honey Nut Cheerios, Granola, and Chex.
- Yogurt & Granola-Oh man I am loving this, I've always enjoyed this combination together, but I am in heaven when I eat it now. So. Good.
- Banana Pudding-still love banana snack packs, yum.
- Granola bars-Nature Valley granola bars are still doing it for me, they are like my dessert for lunch.
- Izzy's Pizza-I LOVE their crust, yum. I dip it in ranch and I have a little party in my mouth, mmmm.
- Grapes
- Apples
- Chocolate-That is in the 5 food groups right? ;)
- Tootsie rolls
Here is my list from a few weeks ago (the ones in gray are done):
1. Verify the pediatrician is covered by Brian's insurance-Done, she is!
2. Call pediatrician-Done, although we don't do anything until we actually have Bria in the hospital, at which point we just tell them who our pediatrician is.
3. Find a list of what to pack for the hospital-Done
4. Pack hospital bag-In progress (probably will be until we actually leave for the hospital)
5. Create a phone list for people to call when I go into labor-done
6. Iron out details for when I go into labor
7. Pick coming home outfit for Bria (this will probably wait until after the baby showers)
8. Clean and organize house-In progress (always, this is broken down into more detail below)
and I've added a few new items:
9. Wash bottles and teething rings
10. Call Maternity Coordinator to go over birth plan and get a hospital tour-In progress, we are playing phone tag
11. Pre-register
12. Get MJ's bag ready
13. Check to see if insurance pays for some of breast pump
14. Organize little table in computer room
15. Organize kitchen
16. Organize downstairs closet
17. Organize upstairs hall closet-Done
I'm feeling better about my list now that I've actually completed some of them, plus it feels good to have it laid out in front of me so I can see what there is left to do. The only thing that is stressing me out is the travel system. I have dreams about it, in fact I just had one last night: we were headed to the hospital to have little Bria but we had not gotten the travel system yet so we didn't have a car seat. That is really the only thing left that we HAVE to have before Bria comes so that is probably why it's on my mind. The one we registered for at Babies R Us is on sale until the 19th so I am tempted to go buy it, we'll see. By the way, I like Target and all but they have crap for travel systems. Seriously. Even online they have a very small selection, especially in the brands that I want: Chicco or Graco.
Anyway, that is about all I have for this week. Tomorrow my sister is doing a little maternity photo session for me and I'm really excited, so I'll be posting those pictures sometime in the future.
Baby:
Your baby doesn't have much room to maneuver now that she's over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds (pick up a honeydew melon). Because it's so snug in your womb, she isn't likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of times she kicks should remain about the same. Her kidneys are fully developed now, and her liver can process some waste products. Most of her basic physical development is now complete — she'll spend the next few weeks putting on weight.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
34w 4d
1st childbirth class-check.
Brian and I both had a good time at our class last night. The instructor is really nice and the class is huge, there are 34 people in there. A lot of it is geared towards the coaches and how they help us get through labor, I like that. We sat in front of our coaches while they did some relaxing techniques, I think they should massage us every class :) We get to learn more in depth about what is happening during labor and what your body is doing. Right now Bria is laying with her head down, her back on my left side, and her legs and arms on my right. Since babies come out with their head facing down I was wondering when she would move into that position. Well I learned last night that it's not until she is making her way down the birth canal that she turns to get her head through, and then turns back to the side to get her shoulders out. Man, the whole birthing thing is amazing! Anyway, it's nice to be more informed and be able to ask questions. There is only 1 couple that is due before us (they are due February 14th-cute huh?) so I'm hoping we're one of the first to give birth. The rest have due dates of March or April.
I must say, Brian is pretty darn adorable. He is just so into it and excited, I think he'll be an amazing coach.
Bria's movements are definitely stronger so I can tell she is growing. Sometimes she'll kick so hard it'll make me jump and cringe at the same time, but then of course I laugh and hope no one saw me, otherwise they may try and drive me to the hospital thinking I'm in labor. Bria is pretty active during the day, as I'm typing this she is moving around like crazy in there. She is not as active during the night which is backwards from what I hear is the norm.
I got the sharpest pain in my back the other night and it caught me so off guard that I let out a scream. I scared Brian so bad he said he was ready to warm up the car and head to the hospital. I started laughing and told him I'll try not to scream like that, it just slipped out because it startled me.
My sister's and mom sent out the invites for the baby shower they are throwing for me! The invites are really beautiful and I'll try to take a picture of it to post. I was all giddy when I got it in the mail and can't wait for the shower. It's family and close family friends, I know we'll have a great time and I love getting together with all these amazing women in my life.
Speaking of baby showers, my co-workers are having one for me on Thursday! I do work with some very generous people and I feel so warm and fuzzy that they want to have a shower for me. I'm looking forward to that shower as well. Many events to get excited about :)
I have been doing so good about going for walks every night, MJ and I do almost 2 miles when I get home from work. It feels really good to get out and I know MJ is loving it. Last night was the first night I didn't go on account of our childbirth class. I think taking 1 day off a week is ok though, especially since I went for 2 walks on Sunday. My goal was to go at least 4 times a week so I am still surpassing that.
Only 38 days until my due date, wahoo!
Brian and I both had a good time at our class last night. The instructor is really nice and the class is huge, there are 34 people in there. A lot of it is geared towards the coaches and how they help us get through labor, I like that. We sat in front of our coaches while they did some relaxing techniques, I think they should massage us every class :) We get to learn more in depth about what is happening during labor and what your body is doing. Right now Bria is laying with her head down, her back on my left side, and her legs and arms on my right. Since babies come out with their head facing down I was wondering when she would move into that position. Well I learned last night that it's not until she is making her way down the birth canal that she turns to get her head through, and then turns back to the side to get her shoulders out. Man, the whole birthing thing is amazing! Anyway, it's nice to be more informed and be able to ask questions. There is only 1 couple that is due before us (they are due February 14th-cute huh?) so I'm hoping we're one of the first to give birth. The rest have due dates of March or April.
I must say, Brian is pretty darn adorable. He is just so into it and excited, I think he'll be an amazing coach.
Bria's movements are definitely stronger so I can tell she is growing. Sometimes she'll kick so hard it'll make me jump and cringe at the same time, but then of course I laugh and hope no one saw me, otherwise they may try and drive me to the hospital thinking I'm in labor. Bria is pretty active during the day, as I'm typing this she is moving around like crazy in there. She is not as active during the night which is backwards from what I hear is the norm.
I got the sharpest pain in my back the other night and it caught me so off guard that I let out a scream. I scared Brian so bad he said he was ready to warm up the car and head to the hospital. I started laughing and told him I'll try not to scream like that, it just slipped out because it startled me.
My sister's and mom sent out the invites for the baby shower they are throwing for me! The invites are really beautiful and I'll try to take a picture of it to post. I was all giddy when I got it in the mail and can't wait for the shower. It's family and close family friends, I know we'll have a great time and I love getting together with all these amazing women in my life.
Speaking of baby showers, my co-workers are having one for me on Thursday! I do work with some very generous people and I feel so warm and fuzzy that they want to have a shower for me. I'm looking forward to that shower as well. Many events to get excited about :)
I have been doing so good about going for walks every night, MJ and I do almost 2 miles when I get home from work. It feels really good to get out and I know MJ is loving it. Last night was the first night I didn't go on account of our childbirth class. I think taking 1 day off a week is ok though, especially since I went for 2 walks on Sunday. My goal was to go at least 4 times a week so I am still surpassing that.
Only 38 days until my due date, wahoo!
Friday, January 9, 2009
Week 34
We had a great appointment today! I met with Dr. Tina Gain for the first time and oh my goodness she was the sweetest thing. Brian liked her as well, thought she was maybe too happy, but I told him that is what I need. I just loved her and hope she is on call when I go into labor. Although, all the doctors are really nice so I won't complain whoever it is.
Anyway, my blood pressure is still good and she said I look nice and healthy. Most importantly though, Bria is doing well. She is in a vertex position, so she is head down and optimal for delivery, wahoo! Dr. Gain showed Brian all of Bria's different body parts and had him feel her bum, back, and head. She was very impressed that he got in there, most guys are timid and don't want to squeeze or push too hard. But Brian observed how hard she was pushing so he did the same. He is excited now that he knows where all her different body parts are and can feel them. Her heart beat is in the 140's and going strong. It was just so good to hear that Bria is doing well and everything looks and sounds good.
At my next appointment I'll get the Strep B test and then start going every week!
Symptoms
Nausea. Still feel nauseous on and off, some days are worse than others. I'm not sure what really sets it off either which makes it hard to try and avoid. I actually threw up on Saturday which I was not expecting. I had my normal breakfast of cereal and toast, then ate a little cinnamon roll and was sipping on hot chocolate. It went down the wrong tube so I was coughing a little then sat down on the couch and all of the sudden out of nowhere my hot chocolate comes right back up. All over my new electric blanket that was keeping me warm since our furnace had gone out. Brian thinks I shouldn't drink hot chocolate anymore but there is no way I can give that up!
Belly tightening. I've noticed that my belly will get really hard and feel tight every once and awhile, are these braxton hicks? I seriously have no idea. They don't hurt, they just feel kind of weird.
Extreme excitement. I am ecstatic beyond belief, I cannot wait to meet this little girl who squirms, hiccups, and kicks in my belly. I am so in love with her already it's not even funny. I can't wait to see her little face and hear her cry, it seems absolutely surreal that we have 6 weeks, give or take depending on when she is ready, until we meet her. Oh I can hardly contain my excitement!
Heavy belly. When I go for walks (which by the way I have been very good about, I know MJ appreciates it) my belly just feels so heavy. All my stomach muscles feel like they are holding on for dear life. Doing chores around the house is really hurting my back too, but I must get it done. My belly belt helps so I need to remember to wear it when I'm up and about.
I think that is about it for symptoms. Things are still going very well and I feel good which I am so thankful for. I'm trying to slow down and enjoy these last few weeks, it's hard when all I can think about is meeting this little girl and seeing what she looks like, giving her kisses, and snuggling her up. But I do love feeling her move around in my belly and knowing that she is safe inside me.
Baby
Your baby now weighs about 4 3/4 pounds (like your average cantaloupe) and is almost 18 inches long. Her fat layers — which will help regulate her body temperature once she's born — are filling her out, making her rounder. Her skin is also smoother than ever. Her central nervous system is maturing and her lungs are continuing to mature as well. If you've been nervous about preterm labor, you'll be happy to know that babies born between 34 and 37 weeks who have no other health problems generally do fine. They may need a short stay in the neonatal nursery and may have a few short-term health issues, but in the long run, they usually do as well as full-term babies.
Anyway, my blood pressure is still good and she said I look nice and healthy. Most importantly though, Bria is doing well. She is in a vertex position, so she is head down and optimal for delivery, wahoo! Dr. Gain showed Brian all of Bria's different body parts and had him feel her bum, back, and head. She was very impressed that he got in there, most guys are timid and don't want to squeeze or push too hard. But Brian observed how hard she was pushing so he did the same. He is excited now that he knows where all her different body parts are and can feel them. Her heart beat is in the 140's and going strong. It was just so good to hear that Bria is doing well and everything looks and sounds good.
At my next appointment I'll get the Strep B test and then start going every week!
Symptoms
Nausea. Still feel nauseous on and off, some days are worse than others. I'm not sure what really sets it off either which makes it hard to try and avoid. I actually threw up on Saturday which I was not expecting. I had my normal breakfast of cereal and toast, then ate a little cinnamon roll and was sipping on hot chocolate. It went down the wrong tube so I was coughing a little then sat down on the couch and all of the sudden out of nowhere my hot chocolate comes right back up. All over my new electric blanket that was keeping me warm since our furnace had gone out. Brian thinks I shouldn't drink hot chocolate anymore but there is no way I can give that up!
Belly tightening. I've noticed that my belly will get really hard and feel tight every once and awhile, are these braxton hicks? I seriously have no idea. They don't hurt, they just feel kind of weird.
Extreme excitement. I am ecstatic beyond belief, I cannot wait to meet this little girl who squirms, hiccups, and kicks in my belly. I am so in love with her already it's not even funny. I can't wait to see her little face and hear her cry, it seems absolutely surreal that we have 6 weeks, give or take depending on when she is ready, until we meet her. Oh I can hardly contain my excitement!
Heavy belly. When I go for walks (which by the way I have been very good about, I know MJ appreciates it) my belly just feels so heavy. All my stomach muscles feel like they are holding on for dear life. Doing chores around the house is really hurting my back too, but I must get it done. My belly belt helps so I need to remember to wear it when I'm up and about.
I think that is about it for symptoms. Things are still going very well and I feel good which I am so thankful for. I'm trying to slow down and enjoy these last few weeks, it's hard when all I can think about is meeting this little girl and seeing what she looks like, giving her kisses, and snuggling her up. But I do love feeling her move around in my belly and knowing that she is safe inside me.
Baby
Your baby now weighs about 4 3/4 pounds (like your average cantaloupe) and is almost 18 inches long. Her fat layers — which will help regulate her body temperature once she's born — are filling her out, making her rounder. Her skin is also smoother than ever. Her central nervous system is maturing and her lungs are continuing to mature as well. If you've been nervous about preterm labor, you'll be happy to know that babies born between 34 and 37 weeks who have no other health problems generally do fine. They may need a short stay in the neonatal nursery and may have a few short-term health issues, but in the long run, they usually do as well as full-term babies.
Belly pic (It was a long day)
Monday, January 5, 2009
33w 3d
Books
I love to read and so of course when I got pregnant I wanted to start reading all the pregnancy books I could get my hands on. Especially since it doesn't feel real in the beginning, you aren't showing, it's too soon to do the nursery or shop for things, and you are just waiting for the first appointment. So I wanted to list the books I read and what I liked/disliked about them.
Pregnancy Books
Your Pregnancy Week by Week
Like it.
What I really enjoy is that each week I can read a new chapter instead of only getting to read one chapter a month. Plus there are lots of changes that occur in just one week and I love being able to picture what Bria is up to. The only downside is that some of the chapters/weeks are full of information that does not apply to everyone. Which is totally fine, they shouldn't have to cater to me or anything, but sometimes the whole chapter is about that one subject so I don't feel like I learned anything. For example, some weeks are about Hepatits, or HIV, or the Bird Flu. I'm not saying these shouldn't be mentioned or discussed, but maybe not the majority of the chapter, ya know? But overall it gives lots of medical information and I enjoyed that.
Belly Laughs
Like it.
It's a really fun read and she is brutally honest, so much so that I was expecting the worst and have been pleasantly surprised so far. I just liked to be able to laugh and read something light hearted. The only con is that there isn't any medical information, it's more just her opinion, but that is why you get Your Pregnancy Week by Week.
The Girlfriend's Guide to Pregnancy
Like it.
I love her honesty and knowledge. You can tell she is more experienced than Jenny (author of Belly Laughs) and so it is easier to take advice from her. She's really funny and makes you feel normal. She brings experiences from multiple women so it's not just one persons experience which is cool. It is another easy, light hearted read.
What to Expect When You're Expecting
So so.
Although I like the medical information and expertise of this book, it goes through month by month, instead of week by week. Now this is more of a personal preference of course, but I like being able to read a new chapter each week instead of once a month. I do like the information it provides though, and it tends to have more useful information than Your Pregnancy Week by Week. I was glad to have this book, but also glad that it was given to me instead of having to purchase it.
Frankly Pregnant
Like it.
I have really enjoyed this book. Again, it's a week by week book which I love and it's straight from someone who is going through it at the time. So it's nice to compare the symptoms you are having with what she had at that week. She also had a doctor edit it who throws in information here and there. It's a great blend of Belly Laughs and Your Pregnancy Week by Week. The chapters are pretty short which is maybe the only down fall. I look forward to reading the next week and then there is only 2 pages or so. But still a good read.
Baby Books
Secrets of The Baby Whisperer
Love it, must have!
My sister gave me this book and I absolutely love it. She (my sister) has 3 kids who are all excellent sleepers which is proof enough for me that this book works. I also learned that others have had success with it and that makes me even more excited. I just love this author and her methods, I am learning a lot and feel much more prepared and informed for when Bria comes. Also, she is great about reminding you of your marriage and "you" time. I really have no complaints about this book and wish I could articulate just how good it is.
Baby Wise
Like it.
It follows pretty closely with The Baby Whisperer and I think they compliment each other nicely. I think I will choose Baby Whisperer's advice over this book when they differ on topics, but for the most part they are pretty in sync so that is not an issue. Both books focus on a flexible schedule of: Eating, Activity, Sleeping for the baby.
Baby Bargains
Love it.
Brandi got this for me and I'm so thankful that she did. It reviews every baby item you could think of and it does so very honestly. I like that it doesn't favor the most expensive brands and has no advertisements of any kind, in fact, they make sure it is known that no one paid to have their name in there or not in there. They just review all items and give you an honest opinion as well as facts. It's a must have as well.
And for goodness sakes go make your guess as to when Bria will arrive (to the left)!
I love to read and so of course when I got pregnant I wanted to start reading all the pregnancy books I could get my hands on. Especially since it doesn't feel real in the beginning, you aren't showing, it's too soon to do the nursery or shop for things, and you are just waiting for the first appointment. So I wanted to list the books I read and what I liked/disliked about them.
Pregnancy Books
Your Pregnancy Week by Week Like it.
What I really enjoy is that each week I can read a new chapter instead of only getting to read one chapter a month. Plus there are lots of changes that occur in just one week and I love being able to picture what Bria is up to. The only downside is that some of the chapters/weeks are full of information that does not apply to everyone. Which is totally fine, they shouldn't have to cater to me or anything, but sometimes the whole chapter is about that one subject so I don't feel like I learned anything. For example, some weeks are about Hepatits, or HIV, or the Bird Flu. I'm not saying these shouldn't be mentioned or discussed, but maybe not the majority of the chapter, ya know? But overall it gives lots of medical information and I enjoyed that.
Belly LaughsLike it.
It's a really fun read and she is brutally honest, so much so that I was expecting the worst and have been pleasantly surprised so far. I just liked to be able to laugh and read something light hearted. The only con is that there isn't any medical information, it's more just her opinion, but that is why you get Your Pregnancy Week by Week.
The Girlfriend's Guide to PregnancyLike it.
I love her honesty and knowledge. You can tell she is more experienced than Jenny (author of Belly Laughs) and so it is easier to take advice from her. She's really funny and makes you feel normal. She brings experiences from multiple women so it's not just one persons experience which is cool. It is another easy, light hearted read.
What to Expect When You're ExpectingSo so.
Although I like the medical information and expertise of this book, it goes through month by month, instead of week by week. Now this is more of a personal preference of course, but I like being able to read a new chapter each week instead of once a month. I do like the information it provides though, and it tends to have more useful information than Your Pregnancy Week by Week. I was glad to have this book, but also glad that it was given to me instead of having to purchase it.
Frankly PregnantLike it.
I have really enjoyed this book. Again, it's a week by week book which I love and it's straight from someone who is going through it at the time. So it's nice to compare the symptoms you are having with what she had at that week. She also had a doctor edit it who throws in information here and there. It's a great blend of Belly Laughs and Your Pregnancy Week by Week. The chapters are pretty short which is maybe the only down fall. I look forward to reading the next week and then there is only 2 pages or so. But still a good read.
Baby Books
Secrets of The Baby WhispererLove it, must have!
My sister gave me this book and I absolutely love it. She (my sister) has 3 kids who are all excellent sleepers which is proof enough for me that this book works. I also learned that others have had success with it and that makes me even more excited. I just love this author and her methods, I am learning a lot and feel much more prepared and informed for when Bria comes. Also, she is great about reminding you of your marriage and "you" time. I really have no complaints about this book and wish I could articulate just how good it is.
Baby WiseLike it.
It follows pretty closely with The Baby Whisperer and I think they compliment each other nicely. I think I will choose Baby Whisperer's advice over this book when they differ on topics, but for the most part they are pretty in sync so that is not an issue. Both books focus on a flexible schedule of: Eating, Activity, Sleeping for the baby.
Baby BargainsLove it.
Brandi got this for me and I'm so thankful that she did. It reviews every baby item you could think of and it does so very honestly. I like that it doesn't favor the most expensive brands and has no advertisements of any kind, in fact, they make sure it is known that no one paid to have their name in there or not in there. They just review all items and give you an honest opinion as well as facts. It's a must have as well.
And for goodness sakes go make your guess as to when Bria will arrive (to the left)!
Friday, January 2, 2009
Week 33
We got signed up for our childbirth class! We start on January 12th and I'm looking forward to it. It's surreal to think about sitting in a childbirth class, practicing breathing techniques, I just can't believe we're at that point, so exciting!
Another thing to mark off the to do list: I picked a pediatrician (based on recommendations) and now I just need to call her. I also got my FMLA stuff figured out which is nice. My last day will be February 13th, just 6 weeks away!!! That is of course unless she comes early, but I hear with your first that you are more likely to deliver late that early. However, I was 10 days early so maybe she'll take after me :-)
I'm going to be a mommy this year!!!
Symptoms:
Swelling. I wore my pretty red shoes on Tuesday and when I took them off I noticed my feet were pretty puffy. So after my walk I sat on the couch and tried to elevate them, I think it helped a little. Well, Wednesday when I got home from work, holy cow, I had cankles. My ankles were really swollen and I couldn't believe how fast it came on. Having Thursday off work helped though because they are almost back to normal, although I'm sure when I go home tonight they will be swollen again.
Big Belly. Apparently I am starting to look large and in charge, as per my co-worker. When I walked by her she said, "Whoa, what are you feeding that girl?" Now, I realize I am overly sensitive so I tried to be ok with this, but it hurt my feelings. Granted, being pregnant and complaining about getting fat is like standing in a swimming pool and complaining that you are wet, but still. It's not that I mind people commenting on my growing belly, but maybe think about how you say it. You could say, "Your belly is getting so cute and big," and then add, "...by the way you're very pretty and glowing and radiant." Alright, maybe the last part is a stretch, but still, you get the idea. I think I have just hit that point in the pregnancy where I feel large all over and it's just an adjustment. My body is changing rapidly and it's a challenge to take it all in.
Less-irritable. I was definitely less emotional, irritable, and irrational this week which was a refreshing change. Brian still had to be up North for a few days which bummed me out, but I dealt with it way better and was much more positive. I also didn't cry at all this week, wahoo!
Sleep issues. Sleeping was a bit rough this week, I now go to the bathroom 2 or 3 times instead of just once so that has probably contributed. I also will wake up randomly and have a hard time getting back to sleep. My hips started aching during the night so I know that doesn't help.
Dreams. I will have dreams that I am getting further and further along in my pregnancy until finally I reach 37 weeks and think, "She can come out now!" But then I wake up and realize I am still 33 weeks and she needs to stay in there for at least another 4 weeks. I also had a bad dream that I didn't like. Bria was here (although I think it was a boy) and I was trying to put her to bed but she was crying really hard and wouldn't lay down, I was getting frustrated. Then I woke up. I guess what disturbed me is that instead of snuggling with her I was frustrated. I think maybe because I'm scared I won't be as patient as I want to be. I'm reading the Baby Whisperer and I'm on the sleeping chapter where she talks about walking away for a second to take 3 deep breaths if you find yourself getting frustrated. Anyway, I just hated the thought of getting frustrated with this precious little miracle that's growing inside me, I love her so much and all I want to do is give her kisses and cuddle her.
Lots of movement. She was very active this week, especially in the beginning of the week. I think it was Monday that it felt like she was moving all day, it was cracking me up. It's funny to watch my stomach get all distorted. Every once and awhile I'll feel a little kick down on my pelvis bone, it's really weird and kind of tickles. I love feeling her move, it is the best.
Hot. I woke up sweating most nights, even though the house is set to 56 and I sleep in my underwear. Fortunately Brian's internal furnace is set to hot so I'm not freezing him out yet :) I can't imagine how awful I would be sleeping if it were summer-we have no AC.
Overwhelmed. I read a few pregnancy books and they all have lists of things I'll need/want before Bria arrives. I'm wishing I would've bookmarked these pages because now I just feel overwhelmed and can't remember everything I need to do. I have 2 more baby showers before Bria is born (so excited!), one is at work on the 15th of this month and the other is the one my sister's and mom are throwing for me on the 31st. So I'm going to wait until after those to go purchase any "must have" items (although I'm not 100% sure I know what those "must have's" are). Aside from that I think this is what I still need to do, but please add anything you can think of:
1. Verify the pediatrician is covered by Brian's insurance
2. Call pediatrician
3. Find a list of what to pack for the hospital
4. Pack hospital bag
5. Create a phone list for people to call when I go into labor
6. Iron out details for when I go into labor
7. Pick coming home outfit for Bria (this will probably wait until after the baby showers)
8. Clean and organize house
What else am I missing?
Baby:
This week your baby weighs a little over 4 pounds (heft a pineapple) and has passed the 17-inch mark. She's rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look and her skeleton is hardening. The bones in her skull aren't fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for her to fit through the birth canal. (The pressure on the head during birth is so intense that many babies are born with a conehead-like appearance.) These bones don't entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as her brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.
*I am horrible and still don't have a belly picture to post, I'll do it this weekend!
Another thing to mark off the to do list: I picked a pediatrician (based on recommendations) and now I just need to call her. I also got my FMLA stuff figured out which is nice. My last day will be February 13th, just 6 weeks away!!! That is of course unless she comes early, but I hear with your first that you are more likely to deliver late that early. However, I was 10 days early so maybe she'll take after me :-)
I'm going to be a mommy this year!!!
Symptoms:
Swelling. I wore my pretty red shoes on Tuesday and when I took them off I noticed my feet were pretty puffy. So after my walk I sat on the couch and tried to elevate them, I think it helped a little. Well, Wednesday when I got home from work, holy cow, I had cankles. My ankles were really swollen and I couldn't believe how fast it came on. Having Thursday off work helped though because they are almost back to normal, although I'm sure when I go home tonight they will be swollen again.
Big Belly. Apparently I am starting to look large and in charge, as per my co-worker. When I walked by her she said, "Whoa, what are you feeding that girl?" Now, I realize I am overly sensitive so I tried to be ok with this, but it hurt my feelings. Granted, being pregnant and complaining about getting fat is like standing in a swimming pool and complaining that you are wet, but still. It's not that I mind people commenting on my growing belly, but maybe think about how you say it. You could say, "Your belly is getting so cute and big," and then add, "...by the way you're very pretty and glowing and radiant." Alright, maybe the last part is a stretch, but still, you get the idea. I think I have just hit that point in the pregnancy where I feel large all over and it's just an adjustment. My body is changing rapidly and it's a challenge to take it all in.
Less-irritable. I was definitely less emotional, irritable, and irrational this week which was a refreshing change. Brian still had to be up North for a few days which bummed me out, but I dealt with it way better and was much more positive. I also didn't cry at all this week, wahoo!
Sleep issues. Sleeping was a bit rough this week, I now go to the bathroom 2 or 3 times instead of just once so that has probably contributed. I also will wake up randomly and have a hard time getting back to sleep. My hips started aching during the night so I know that doesn't help.
Dreams. I will have dreams that I am getting further and further along in my pregnancy until finally I reach 37 weeks and think, "She can come out now!" But then I wake up and realize I am still 33 weeks and she needs to stay in there for at least another 4 weeks. I also had a bad dream that I didn't like. Bria was here (although I think it was a boy) and I was trying to put her to bed but she was crying really hard and wouldn't lay down, I was getting frustrated. Then I woke up. I guess what disturbed me is that instead of snuggling with her I was frustrated. I think maybe because I'm scared I won't be as patient as I want to be. I'm reading the Baby Whisperer and I'm on the sleeping chapter where she talks about walking away for a second to take 3 deep breaths if you find yourself getting frustrated. Anyway, I just hated the thought of getting frustrated with this precious little miracle that's growing inside me, I love her so much and all I want to do is give her kisses and cuddle her.
Lots of movement. She was very active this week, especially in the beginning of the week. I think it was Monday that it felt like she was moving all day, it was cracking me up. It's funny to watch my stomach get all distorted. Every once and awhile I'll feel a little kick down on my pelvis bone, it's really weird and kind of tickles. I love feeling her move, it is the best.
Hot. I woke up sweating most nights, even though the house is set to 56 and I sleep in my underwear. Fortunately Brian's internal furnace is set to hot so I'm not freezing him out yet :) I can't imagine how awful I would be sleeping if it were summer-we have no AC.
Overwhelmed. I read a few pregnancy books and they all have lists of things I'll need/want before Bria arrives. I'm wishing I would've bookmarked these pages because now I just feel overwhelmed and can't remember everything I need to do. I have 2 more baby showers before Bria is born (so excited!), one is at work on the 15th of this month and the other is the one my sister's and mom are throwing for me on the 31st. So I'm going to wait until after those to go purchase any "must have" items (although I'm not 100% sure I know what those "must have's" are). Aside from that I think this is what I still need to do, but please add anything you can think of:
1. Verify the pediatrician is covered by Brian's insurance
2. Call pediatrician
3. Find a list of what to pack for the hospital
4. Pack hospital bag
5. Create a phone list for people to call when I go into labor
6. Iron out details for when I go into labor
7. Pick coming home outfit for Bria (this will probably wait until after the baby showers)
8. Clean and organize house
What else am I missing?
Baby:
This week your baby weighs a little over 4 pounds (heft a pineapple) and has passed the 17-inch mark. She's rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look and her skeleton is hardening. The bones in her skull aren't fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for her to fit through the birth canal. (The pressure on the head during birth is so intense that many babies are born with a conehead-like appearance.) These bones don't entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as her brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.
*I am horrible and still don't have a belly picture to post, I'll do it this weekend!
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