The newborn days are spent in a pretty foggy haze, and it really does fly by! Here is a list of tips, advice, must have items, waste of money items, etc. while I still have one foot in enough to remember and one foot out enough to have the time, energy, and clarity to write this. I hope it's helpful to at least a few new moms, and myself whenever it's time for baby #2 (not any time soon - but it'll come someday!) and I can't remember a damn thing about how things went down during this time with baby #1. I'm long-winded (I'm an English teacher, what do you expect?), so you're probably best off skimming for the sections of interest to you. Unless of course you just want to soak in my delicious story-telling format and read every last drop - I wouldn't blame you for that either.
Baby carrier -- Do some research and figure out which one you think you'll like best, but DEFINITELY make sure you have a baby carrier of some sort. Strap that baby on and go about your business. It's a little harder to do said business with your baby screaming in your ear, but a hell of a lot easier than trying to hold the screaming baby with your own arms, which leaves you unable to even pee for potentially hours on end if you have a fussy baby like mine - baby carrier = pee all day long if you like, and occasionally get quite a few other things done as well. Another plus is that if your baby HATES tummy time, carrying them COUNTS as tummy time -- it helps reduce the risk of plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome - the reason you see all those babies in cute little helmets that you obviously would prefer to avoid if you can - and which is actually incredibly more common than you may realize), and helps build core and neck strength that they get from tummy time. As someone who became obsessed with trying all kinds of carriers, here are my notes on the different ones I tried:
--The Ergo is a fantastic, super easy (but pricey) option. I love how easy it is to put on, how comfortable it is, and how much support it provides. Oh - but don't use the newborn insert! It's actually unnecessary, newest recommendations for baby wearing suggest legs out from day 1, and that thing is HOT for both you and baby. By the way, the link is to the one I WISH I had with "cool air mesh" - I just have the regular one, and baby carriers in general get quite warm between you and baby's body heat!
--The Moby is my personal favorite (doesn't have to be Moby brand - any good quality wrap carrier will do the same thing for you) - the catch is that it takes a serious learning curve and you really have to be willing to not give up. It's intimidating at first to wrap that long piece of fabric and get it right so that the baby isn't hanging down by your knees after 10 minutes. But if you are determined, and willing to practice, and watch a million and one YouTube videos on different techniques for wrapping, this wrap will change.your.life. Seriously. I almost gave up the first week, and I'm so glad I didn't. It's a lot like learning to tie your shoes -- Remember how hard that was at first?? No?? That's because you practiced and then it became so easy it was like second nature! Same for the Moby. :) It is by far the most comfortable wrap (for both of us), I love that I can actually leave it on all day and just slip her in and out, it will grow with us as she grows, and best of all - I learned to breastfeed in it! Let me repeat that: I learned to breastfeed... on.the.go! Now, I still prefer to get cozy with my little snuggle bug and enjoy the bonding of a more comfy nursing session, but when you're on the go or really need a hand free moment, this is Life Changing, my friends. Give me a call or come on over when you're ready and I will totally help you out with this! As a side note, I have also heard that the Solly is a very comparable, but cooler, option due to the lighter material it's made out of - I can't fully recommend having never tried this brand though.
--I have a Ring Sling that I also quite like, but it doesn't provide nearly as much support and hurts my back, neck, and shoulder after longer periods. Great for a quick, easy throw on carrier for just a short time though - and it's best pro is that it is really very easy to nurse in, and the long tail doubles as a cover. I like having it as a spare, but if you only want to invest in one carrier (or two), make it the Ergo or the Moby.
--I also tried a Mei Tei carrier (somewhat of a cross between a structured carrier like the Ergo and a wrap carrier like the Moby), and I didn't like it at all. It was a pain in the ass like a wrap carrier, but without all the added benefits. Maybe I gave up on it too quickly. Or maybe it just sucks. Either way, I wouldn't recommend this type of carrier.
Lactation Consultant -- Make this woman your best friend! Issues with latching? Painful latch? Hurting nipples? Sleepy nursing baby? Schedule an appointment with your LC. Problems that you're not even sure seem breastfeeding related? Baby cries a lot? Gassy? Spitting up frequently? Possible reflux? See your LC!! I kept making appointments with my pediatrician for my colicky newborn, putting her on meds, trying elimination diets, all to no avail, and at 11 weeks it dawned on me to at least give the LC a try and see if she could help - she identified a problem the pediatricians hadn't noticed instantly and I left with a new, happy baby. I think people don't take enough advantage of lactation consultants, and really, really, you should (not the hospital ones either - they are often not as good as independent LC's or ones that you can get through your pediatrician's office).
Playard -- I didn't realize there were options other than a standard "pack n play" when we registered, so I searched Pack 'n Play and put one that looked good on our registry. That thing is a PAIN IN THE ASS to set up and is SO heavy! There are WAY lighter and WAY easier versions that are much better for travel if that's what you plan to use it for like we did. We ended up going with the Guava Lotus Travel Crib (just recently bought this so now we have this AND a pack and play - if I had a do-over, we would have just started with this), but I've heard great things about the Babybjorn Travel Crib too and think we would have been happy with either!
Infant Massage -- Gassy baby? YouTube "infant anti-gas massage" - there are tons of videos for super quick, easy to do massages. I started doing a quick massage routine at each diaper change (>1 minute) and she would pass gas almost every time I did it.. It really helped!
White noise -- LOUD is key here. I actually find our iPad on a docking station is the loudest option and there are a million YouTube videos of hours of white noise, so if you already have an iPad, this is a totally free way to go, and will probably be better than a lot of the ones you can buy anyway. Someone told me that it is rock concert-loud in your belly, so don't be afraid to crank that white noise up, and I have found this to be soooo true... loud white noise = longer sleeping baby. Don't waste your money on some sweet gentle sounding one - if you do buy one, make sure it has good volume.
Socks -- Get 1-2 pairs of Zutano brand socks/booties in a good neutral color (go with the 6 month size - these fit Adelyn at a really young age due to the way they actually snap around the ankle and gives her plenty of room to grow into them as she gets bigger). These things STAY ON like nobodies business and are so warm and snuggly. Then get a 6 pack of Robeez brand socks - these are more regular, everyday socks, and they stay on quite well too. Zutanos and Robeez are expensive. If you'd rather buy other, cheaper socks, I'd recommend just throwing some money in the garbage first and then breaking down and buying the Zutanos and Robeez anyway ... seriously, the rest are all a complete waste of money, they fall off so quickly they're not even worth putting on.
Bottle Drying Rack -- We have a drying rack by our sink. Marketing somehow convinced me I needed a special, separate drying rack for bottles. Turns out the bottles can MIRACULOUSLY sit on the plain one too and I don't need two drying racks taking up space on my counter...
Bottle Sanitizer -- Do you have a dishwasher? With a "sanitize" option? Yeah, me too... Get a dishwasher basket for small parts and save your money on the special sanitizer.
Baby Advice Books -- Do you already have some of these? You do, don't you? Okay, then you need to listen very carefully to this next part. Go now, quickly, to get your books. Pick them up... Are you following? Now light a match and start a bonfire with these books (outside recommended). You and your neighbors can have a great little party with the bonfire and those books would have made you crazy because they all contradict each other and you're probably always doing something wrong - except you're not. You got this, mama, follow your instincts and ask your pediatrician (or your mom) when you have questions. This article about sleep advice says it perfectly!
Snuza Movement Monitor -- Maybe you're a totally, laid back mom who doesn't worry about anything (ahh we laugh, do such moms really exist?), but for me, the Snuza Hero was SUCH a worthwhile purchase. I also love that this one vibrates to attempt to rouse baby along with alarming the parent in comparison to other similar devices, none of which have that feature to my knowledge. It gives me so much peace of mind to know she's breathing and happily sleeping at night as long as I don't hear an alarm. Now apparently there is also a setting where the monitor beeps with every breath the baby takes so you can actually "hear" her breathing all night long. I don't know how on earth a constant beep all night long would help you sleep better and if you feel like you need to turn this feature on, you be crazy!
No Bake Energy Bites and Lactation Cookies -- Make a wholeeee bunch of these and maybe some of these too before baby arrives. Put 2-3 in individual ziploc baggies, put the individual bags in a gallon freezer ziploc, and pop them all in the freezer. When you need a quick snack midday or at 2 am, just grab a pre-portioned bag out of the freezer and you're set with a healthy snack! Personally I love both of these recipes frozen, but you can also pull a bag out a little while before you eat them if you prefer them to thaw first - it doesn't take very long.
Bows -- Okay, now this one is important. I want you to take a look at your financial situation very carefully. Now, spend every single dollar you can spare in your budget on bows for your baby girl. You won't regret it, trust me. (Go to eBay for super cheap options!).
There are so many products and so much advice - including mine ;) - readily available that it can be a bit overwhelming ("a bit" - hahaha) before baby arrives. But seriously, the best best BEST thing is about to happen to you, whether you're doing this for the first time or the fifth. So get the stuff you think you need to prepare, and then remember the most important thing for you to focus on is just loving on that new little life you just made, because the only thing they really need is YOU - and you're going to rock this, mama!
Fearfully and Wonderfully Made
Thursday, December 15, 2016
Wednesday, November 23, 2016
To the Grandmother of My Baby
Dear Mom,
Today is the day before Thanksgiving, and I have a lot to be thankful for this year. I have a loving, supportive husband, and we welcomed our first baby into the world 11 short weeks ago. I have food to eat, and a home, and good health.
And I have you... not just my mom anymore, but the grandmother to my baby.
I knew from the second I found out I was pregnant how lucky this sweet baby would be to have you to call grandma. You love on her, and spoil her, and tell her how special and good and important she is. I knew that you would. I knew that you would do that SO good.
But there was something I didn't know yet. I didn't realize how important your new role as my baby's grandma would be, not just to her, but to ME.
When I need advice, you will always answer my questions and try to help me problem solve, and I'm so grateful for that. But often you don't give me advice.
You listen, you support me, you show me that you trust me to make decisions that are right for my daughter. When I whole-heartedly go on and on about the importance of an "eat, wake, sleep" schedule, you nod in agreement and tell me what a good idea that is. And then the next day when I tell you that schedule is the stupidest thing I have ever heard and it clearly does.not.work. and I need to let her eat and wake and sleep in any order she may choose, you nod again, "That makes so much sense, sweetie, you're doing a good job."
You let me tell you in the tiniest, most insignificant detail, how you must hold her, how to soothe her, how to care for her. You, a woman who has raised three children of your own, ran a day care out of your home for years, and has taught in an elementary school for two decades, allow me, a first time mom who loves her baby but doesn't have a clue yet what she's doing, to tell you what to do. And you act like each and every detail is not only incredibly important, but also absolutely brilliant, repeating back steps to me to make sure you have it right and haven't missed anything. What a humble woman it takes to listen to an inexperienced mother tell you what is best without feeling the need to remind me that you already know - that you've been there, and done that.
Do you have any idea what that does to a new mom's self esteem? Do you know how it makes me feel? Do you realize that even when I'm overwhelmed by a colicky baby and feel like I don't know what to do, you make me think I can DO this? What greater gift could a grandmother possibly give her new grandchild than a mom who has confidence in her ability to care for this precious life?
So, this Thanksgiving I want you to know that I'm thankful for all that you do, Mom, and I'm even more thankful for all that you are. The kind of thankful that makes your heart explode because it hurts so good, the kind of thankful that's too big for words. But words are all I have, so I hope you know that even though the words are small, the feeling inside them is earth-shatteringly huge.
Thank you. I love you.
Love always,
Your Baby
Today is the day before Thanksgiving, and I have a lot to be thankful for this year. I have a loving, supportive husband, and we welcomed our first baby into the world 11 short weeks ago. I have food to eat, and a home, and good health.
And I have you... not just my mom anymore, but the grandmother to my baby.
I knew from the second I found out I was pregnant how lucky this sweet baby would be to have you to call grandma. You love on her, and spoil her, and tell her how special and good and important she is. I knew that you would. I knew that you would do that SO good.
But there was something I didn't know yet. I didn't realize how important your new role as my baby's grandma would be, not just to her, but to ME.
When I need advice, you will always answer my questions and try to help me problem solve, and I'm so grateful for that. But often you don't give me advice.
You listen, you support me, you show me that you trust me to make decisions that are right for my daughter. When I whole-heartedly go on and on about the importance of an "eat, wake, sleep" schedule, you nod in agreement and tell me what a good idea that is. And then the next day when I tell you that schedule is the stupidest thing I have ever heard and it clearly does.not.work. and I need to let her eat and wake and sleep in any order she may choose, you nod again, "That makes so much sense, sweetie, you're doing a good job."
You let me tell you in the tiniest, most insignificant detail, how you must hold her, how to soothe her, how to care for her. You, a woman who has raised three children of your own, ran a day care out of your home for years, and has taught in an elementary school for two decades, allow me, a first time mom who loves her baby but doesn't have a clue yet what she's doing, to tell you what to do. And you act like each and every detail is not only incredibly important, but also absolutely brilliant, repeating back steps to me to make sure you have it right and haven't missed anything. What a humble woman it takes to listen to an inexperienced mother tell you what is best without feeling the need to remind me that you already know - that you've been there, and done that.
Do you have any idea what that does to a new mom's self esteem? Do you know how it makes me feel? Do you realize that even when I'm overwhelmed by a colicky baby and feel like I don't know what to do, you make me think I can DO this? What greater gift could a grandmother possibly give her new grandchild than a mom who has confidence in her ability to care for this precious life?
So, this Thanksgiving I want you to know that I'm thankful for all that you do, Mom, and I'm even more thankful for all that you are. The kind of thankful that makes your heart explode because it hurts so good, the kind of thankful that's too big for words. But words are all I have, so I hope you know that even though the words are small, the feeling inside them is earth-shatteringly huge.
Thank you. I love you.
Love always,
Your Baby
Saturday, September 3, 2016
43 weeks
How far along: 43 weeks
Baby’s size: She is measuring about 9.5 pounds (although all three radiologists we've seen this week say they believe that estimate is high), and head circumvence is measuring at 39.5 weeks -- we'll know soon enough! If she doesn't come this weekend, our official, no-turning-back induction is Tuesday! (The hospital won't do scheduled inductions on Sunday's or Labor Day).
Total weight gain / loss: +55
Maternity clothes: Some of them.. The wardrobe is very limited!
Stretch marks: Nope.
Sleep: Mostly good this week other than waking up OFTEN to pee.
Loving: Distractions.
Loathing: Judgment. We live in a society where letting a baby go past the due date is "dangerous" and inducing is a perfectly accepted norm - and people love to share all the dangers they believe I am putting Adelyn in. I realize you are just putting what you think is best for my baby out there, but please do your research first (actual scientific and medical documents only - no blog or pregnancy.com type sites or "I heard..."). The fact is, there are risks with both - yes, of course Mike and I do realize this. Given the fact that she hasn't come on her own yet, we have no other options to consider other than wait and see or induction, so the risks are present whether we like it or not (and of course, truly no pregnancy comes with ZERO risk, even if the baby comes naturally and on time). After A LOT of research (and consideration of family history of deliveries between 42-43 weeks of perfectly healthy, safe babies through vaginal delivery), we've decided to monitor her closely and give her until the 43 week mark to come on her own sweet time. There are significant risks with induction too (there is a reason you have to be hooked up to monitors the entire labor if you are induced), and after a lot of thought, discussion, and careful consideration, we feel they outweigh the risks of waiting, again, particularly with regard to our own personal family history. Sorry, but no, I don't need you to tell me the risks of a late pregnancy, trust me, I've probably read more about it than you can possibly imagine, and I am fully aware! Can we agree that you will respect my decision to do what's best for my family and I'll respect your right to decide if induction is best for you and your family? I promise I won't rattle off all the risks that come with that decision, because I know as moms (and dads) who love our babies we are all just doing what we believe is best and hopefully making informed decisions that work for our own families.
Missing: Can you miss something you haven't had yet? I am missing holding my sweet baby girl in my arms, and can't wait for that day to come soon!
Movement: She's still moving strong and good! Can't wait to see those little fingers and toes wiggling in the outside world!
Cravings: Labor pains... Please come soon!
Aversions: People. ;) Kidding!.... Kind of...
Labor signs: Braxton hicks contractions more frequently, 90% effaced, 2 cm dilated, losing my mucous plug (sorry- if you didn't want to know gross things, you shouldn't have started reading a pregnancy blog! ;)), occasional back pain.
Symptoms: Hip pain, still a little heartburn but that seems to be decreasing, inability to do much more than waddle, still some hiccups but those seem to be decreasing a bit too.
Exercise: Mike and I are trying our best to take lots of walks to get this baby moving! (It's not working if you haven't noticed).
Belly button: Never popped!
Wedding rings: I hope I can wear them again REALLY soon!
Mood: Emotional train wreck. And then I think about how me being stressed affects the baby and can actually delay delivery - and I cry harder because that makes me sad. So there's that...
Husband: Is the most incredibly supportive and amazing man in the world. He is there for every single appointment, decision, and discussion. He is constantly helping me research the actual facts and not listening to what people think they know about post term pregnancy, talking out options, reassuring me that she will come and calming my worries. He helps me block out the outside noise of negativity and focus on doing what we know is best for OUR baby. I'm not sure I could do it without him!
Can't wait for: Well this is an easy one this week - come on Adelyn, I'm SO ready to meet you!!!
Baby’s size: She is measuring about 9.5 pounds (although all three radiologists we've seen this week say they believe that estimate is high), and head circumvence is measuring at 39.5 weeks -- we'll know soon enough! If she doesn't come this weekend, our official, no-turning-back induction is Tuesday! (The hospital won't do scheduled inductions on Sunday's or Labor Day).
Total weight gain / loss: +55
Maternity clothes: Some of them.. The wardrobe is very limited!
Stretch marks: Nope.
Sleep: Mostly good this week other than waking up OFTEN to pee.
Loving: Distractions.
Loathing: Judgment. We live in a society where letting a baby go past the due date is "dangerous" and inducing is a perfectly accepted norm - and people love to share all the dangers they believe I am putting Adelyn in. I realize you are just putting what you think is best for my baby out there, but please do your research first (actual scientific and medical documents only - no blog or pregnancy.com type sites or "I heard..."). The fact is, there are risks with both - yes, of course Mike and I do realize this. Given the fact that she hasn't come on her own yet, we have no other options to consider other than wait and see or induction, so the risks are present whether we like it or not (and of course, truly no pregnancy comes with ZERO risk, even if the baby comes naturally and on time). After A LOT of research (and consideration of family history of deliveries between 42-43 weeks of perfectly healthy, safe babies through vaginal delivery), we've decided to monitor her closely and give her until the 43 week mark to come on her own sweet time. There are significant risks with induction too (there is a reason you have to be hooked up to monitors the entire labor if you are induced), and after a lot of thought, discussion, and careful consideration, we feel they outweigh the risks of waiting, again, particularly with regard to our own personal family history. Sorry, but no, I don't need you to tell me the risks of a late pregnancy, trust me, I've probably read more about it than you can possibly imagine, and I am fully aware! Can we agree that you will respect my decision to do what's best for my family and I'll respect your right to decide if induction is best for you and your family? I promise I won't rattle off all the risks that come with that decision, because I know as moms (and dads) who love our babies we are all just doing what we believe is best and hopefully making informed decisions that work for our own families.
Missing: Can you miss something you haven't had yet? I am missing holding my sweet baby girl in my arms, and can't wait for that day to come soon!
Movement: She's still moving strong and good! Can't wait to see those little fingers and toes wiggling in the outside world!
Cravings: Labor pains... Please come soon!
Aversions: People. ;) Kidding!.... Kind of...
Labor signs: Braxton hicks contractions more frequently, 90% effaced, 2 cm dilated, losing my mucous plug (sorry- if you didn't want to know gross things, you shouldn't have started reading a pregnancy blog! ;)), occasional back pain.
Symptoms: Hip pain, still a little heartburn but that seems to be decreasing, inability to do much more than waddle, still some hiccups but those seem to be decreasing a bit too.
Exercise: Mike and I are trying our best to take lots of walks to get this baby moving! (It's not working if you haven't noticed).
Belly button: Never popped!
Wedding rings: I hope I can wear them again REALLY soon!
Mood: Emotional train wreck. And then I think about how me being stressed affects the baby and can actually delay delivery - and I cry harder because that makes me sad. So there's that...
Husband: Is the most incredibly supportive and amazing man in the world. He is there for every single appointment, decision, and discussion. He is constantly helping me research the actual facts and not listening to what people think they know about post term pregnancy, talking out options, reassuring me that she will come and calming my worries. He helps me block out the outside noise of negativity and focus on doing what we know is best for OUR baby. I'm not sure I could do it without him!
Can't wait for: Well this is an easy one this week - come on Adelyn, I'm SO ready to meet you!!!
Saturday, August 27, 2016
42 weeks
How far along: 42 weeks
Baby’s size: Approximate height and weight of Simone Biles.
Total weight gain / loss: I don't know and I'm feeling way too lazy to go get my scale out and actually get up off the couch - honestly I don't even really care at this point. It's a lot, that's all I need to know.
Maternity clothes: I'm lucky MOST of them still fit.
Stretch marks: Nope.
Sleep: We're running at about 50/50 on good nights vs bad nights.
Loving: That Adelyn made it to my first contracted work day, qualifying me for my 2 weeks short term disability!
Loathing: Feeling less and less competent to do much of anything without it taking immense effort or back pain.
Missing: I'm really excited for that first post-pregnancy drink!
Movement: She may be running out of room, but she doesn't act like it! Still moving around like a little gymnast in there.
Cravings: Nothing crazy... I still enjoy my ice cream and milk, but don't feel as desperate for it as I used to.
Aversions: Fish has still remained off the dinner menu for weeks now, but nothing really other than that.
Labor signs: I woke up every morning with really bad cramps this week (and wondering if they were some form of "pre-labor" contractions). Nope. And of course I went to bed last night convinced that it would be "the" night, only to have my first solid night of sleeping really well in a while and no cramps at all in the morning - I feel farther from labor than I did all week! The Braxton Hicks contractions are definitely continuing and coming more often... but nothing really indicating labor is any closer than it has been.
Symptoms: My back and hips hurt a LOT, and it really only takes about 30 seconds to a minute of being on my feet (if that - sometimes it's literally the moment I stand up) to feel like I've been on them all day long. Still dealing with heartburn on the regular. The WORST symptom right now though is my hiccups... you're thinking - hiccups aren't that bad... but I've had them, no joke, for the last two weeks straight and I feel like I'm going to go insane if they don't stop soon! Mike can verify that they've been the cause of a lot of frustration and curse words lately.
Exercise: Sadly couldn't make it to my yoga class this week (but for a good reason - I filled the empty room in my rental property and the best time for the girl to sign her lease was the same time as my yoga class). Mike and I went on a 1.5 mile walk this morning - not gonna lie, it kinda felt like torture, but we're determined to start getting baby moving!
Belly button: Still not popped.
Wedding rings: No change here.
Mood: Same as the last weeks/months... I'm good most of the time, but definitely sensitive and emotional given the right situation.
Husband: Is getting excited to meet our little one - we've finished everything that needed to be ready before Adelyn's arrival, so we're both just kind of in this limbo where it's hard to make plans and waiting on Adelyn to be on her way at any given moment.
Can't wait for: I'm terrified of labor, but can't wait to meet Adelyn! And apparently there's only one way out of this....
42 weeks pregnant:
First day of work:
Baby’s size: Approximate height and weight of Simone Biles.
Total weight gain / loss: I don't know and I'm feeling way too lazy to go get my scale out and actually get up off the couch - honestly I don't even really care at this point. It's a lot, that's all I need to know.
Maternity clothes: I'm lucky MOST of them still fit.
Stretch marks: Nope.
Sleep: We're running at about 50/50 on good nights vs bad nights.
Loving: That Adelyn made it to my first contracted work day, qualifying me for my 2 weeks short term disability!
Loathing: Feeling less and less competent to do much of anything without it taking immense effort or back pain.
Missing: I'm really excited for that first post-pregnancy drink!
Movement: She may be running out of room, but she doesn't act like it! Still moving around like a little gymnast in there.
Cravings: Nothing crazy... I still enjoy my ice cream and milk, but don't feel as desperate for it as I used to.
Aversions: Fish has still remained off the dinner menu for weeks now, but nothing really other than that.
Labor signs: I woke up every morning with really bad cramps this week (and wondering if they were some form of "pre-labor" contractions). Nope. And of course I went to bed last night convinced that it would be "the" night, only to have my first solid night of sleeping really well in a while and no cramps at all in the morning - I feel farther from labor than I did all week! The Braxton Hicks contractions are definitely continuing and coming more often... but nothing really indicating labor is any closer than it has been.
Symptoms: My back and hips hurt a LOT, and it really only takes about 30 seconds to a minute of being on my feet (if that - sometimes it's literally the moment I stand up) to feel like I've been on them all day long. Still dealing with heartburn on the regular. The WORST symptom right now though is my hiccups... you're thinking - hiccups aren't that bad... but I've had them, no joke, for the last two weeks straight and I feel like I'm going to go insane if they don't stop soon! Mike can verify that they've been the cause of a lot of frustration and curse words lately.
Exercise: Sadly couldn't make it to my yoga class this week (but for a good reason - I filled the empty room in my rental property and the best time for the girl to sign her lease was the same time as my yoga class). Mike and I went on a 1.5 mile walk this morning - not gonna lie, it kinda felt like torture, but we're determined to start getting baby moving!
Belly button: Still not popped.
Wedding rings: No change here.
Mood: Same as the last weeks/months... I'm good most of the time, but definitely sensitive and emotional given the right situation.
Husband: Is getting excited to meet our little one - we've finished everything that needed to be ready before Adelyn's arrival, so we're both just kind of in this limbo where it's hard to make plans and waiting on Adelyn to be on her way at any given moment.
Can't wait for: I'm terrified of labor, but can't wait to meet Adelyn! And apparently there's only one way out of this....
42 weeks pregnant:
First day of work:
Saturday, August 20, 2016
41 weeks
How far along: 41 weeks -- I don't normally like to be a "told you so" kind of person, but I'm a week past my due date, huge, and cranky, but happily still pregnant, so to everyone who didn't believe me when I said I had a strong feeling I would be late since way early on in the pregnancy -- I TOLD YOU SO!!!!! ;)
Baby’s size: Ummmm, she's full term plus some now, meaning we've got a full sized little baby, so let's go with about 6.5 pounds and hope she just slides right out when the time comes!
Total weight gain / loss: +51 (on the plus side, I'm making other pregnant women all around the world feel good about themselves and their 25 pound weight gain - congrats to you, ladies).
Stretch marks: No - I don't know how given the above number in the weight gain category, but as of yet, no stretch marks.
Sleep: Most nights are good, some nights are rough. The last two nights in particular have been pretty tough with a lot of tossing and turning - the primary sleep aggressors being heart burn, waking up to aching hips and needing to change positions to relieve them, and pee breaks, because, you know, who can make it through an 8 hour period without peeing 4-5 times? The good nights still include the occasional wake up to shift positions or use the bathroom, but then I'm right back out!
Loving: That Adelyn is such a trooper and hanging in there just like her momma wants her to (for a little while longer at least!).
Loathing: Loathing is really a much too strong word here, BUT I've started getting a LOT of "sympathy" because Adelyn isn't here yet. I get that this comes from the fact that most mommas are dying at this point and everyone is just trying to be supportive of that norm, but I'm really okay, friends, thanks for your concern though. :)
Missing: Somebody get me a beeeeer!!! Actually, make that a sangria. Or a Miami vice - mmmm, Miami vice!
Movement: I love when Mike and I can both see her getting her groove on in there!
Cravings: Loving my BLTs. And ice cream - of course ice cream.
Aversions: Just say no to all things fish (not all seafood though - shrimp, scallops, crabs, etc do not apply). I hope this fades after baby comes, because I used to love fish!
Labor signs: I woke up in the middle of the night one night this week with really strong cramps and thought there was a possibility I was starting labor, and did some midnight Google research followed by asking lots of friends about it the next day. Turns out cramping is totally normal in the last few weeks pre-baby and Adelyn wasn't ready to join us that night. The cramping has been on and off (mostly off though) since then. At my doctor's visit Thursday, I was 90% effaced and about 1.5 cm dilated. He said the baby is still very high and not dropping at all yet, so could potentially still be a little while before she joins us.
Symptoms: Ohhh the heartburn. And my back kills me if I stand for long periods of time (long periods of time = more than 3-5 minutes). And my feet hurt. And in addition to general foot achey-ness, I think I'm having some sort of heel issue (my Google research says perhaps achilles tendonitis or bursitis brought on by the weight gain of pregnancy), which I really hope goes away after she gets here - severe shooting pains in the back of my heel even when I'm just laying with my feet up. Fatigue comes and goes - some days I just can't make it through without a nap, and other days I've got enough energy to last me through errands and chores and nesting activities all day long.
Exercise: Swam a few laps in my parents pool, and prenatal yoga this week. It is AMAZING how much lighter I feel in the pool without gravity pulling me and Adelyn down!
Belly button: It was starting to pucker a little bit the other day like the beginnings of an outie, but I'm looking now and it's back to its status quo "in-betweeny" state. I think it might be a little dependent on Adelyn's position and how she was pushed up against the middle of my belly/belly button the other day.
Wedding rings: Rocking my new fake $10 wedding band (and even got a compliment on it by the lady at the nail salon - lol).
Mood: Mostly good I think! Should we ask Mike? I did get really upset with him earlier this week when I mentioned that losing the baby weight might be hard in the months to come and he tried to assure me that I would be able to do it no problems -- because he doesn't KNOW what it's like, how could he even GET IT?!? Lol, sorry babe, love you!
Husband: Got approved to work overtime, so he's putting in extra hours where he can to help offset the time he'll be taking off work soon to be home with his new sweet baby. He's also working that around making sure he can now be at the rest of my OB/GYN appointments since we're so close and don't know what the doctor could have to say that's important at any given appointment.
Can't wait for: I'm still hoping to make it a litttlllleee longer before she arrives, but I can't wait for that time to pass and to be able to hold my sweet girl in my arms!
Baby’s size: Ummmm, she's full term plus some now, meaning we've got a full sized little baby, so let's go with about 6.5 pounds and hope she just slides right out when the time comes!
Total weight gain / loss: +51 (on the plus side, I'm making other pregnant women all around the world feel good about themselves and their 25 pound weight gain - congrats to you, ladies).
Stretch marks: No - I don't know how given the above number in the weight gain category, but as of yet, no stretch marks.
Sleep: Most nights are good, some nights are rough. The last two nights in particular have been pretty tough with a lot of tossing and turning - the primary sleep aggressors being heart burn, waking up to aching hips and needing to change positions to relieve them, and pee breaks, because, you know, who can make it through an 8 hour period without peeing 4-5 times? The good nights still include the occasional wake up to shift positions or use the bathroom, but then I'm right back out!
Loving: That Adelyn is such a trooper and hanging in there just like her momma wants her to (for a little while longer at least!).
Loathing: Loathing is really a much too strong word here, BUT I've started getting a LOT of "sympathy" because Adelyn isn't here yet. I get that this comes from the fact that most mommas are dying at this point and everyone is just trying to be supportive of that norm, but I'm really okay, friends, thanks for your concern though. :)
Missing: Somebody get me a beeeeer!!! Actually, make that a sangria. Or a Miami vice - mmmm, Miami vice!
Movement: I love when Mike and I can both see her getting her groove on in there!
Cravings: Loving my BLTs. And ice cream - of course ice cream.
Aversions: Just say no to all things fish (not all seafood though - shrimp, scallops, crabs, etc do not apply). I hope this fades after baby comes, because I used to love fish!
Labor signs: I woke up in the middle of the night one night this week with really strong cramps and thought there was a possibility I was starting labor, and did some midnight Google research followed by asking lots of friends about it the next day. Turns out cramping is totally normal in the last few weeks pre-baby and Adelyn wasn't ready to join us that night. The cramping has been on and off (mostly off though) since then. At my doctor's visit Thursday, I was 90% effaced and about 1.5 cm dilated. He said the baby is still very high and not dropping at all yet, so could potentially still be a little while before she joins us.
Symptoms: Ohhh the heartburn. And my back kills me if I stand for long periods of time (long periods of time = more than 3-5 minutes). And my feet hurt. And in addition to general foot achey-ness, I think I'm having some sort of heel issue (my Google research says perhaps achilles tendonitis or bursitis brought on by the weight gain of pregnancy), which I really hope goes away after she gets here - severe shooting pains in the back of my heel even when I'm just laying with my feet up. Fatigue comes and goes - some days I just can't make it through without a nap, and other days I've got enough energy to last me through errands and chores and nesting activities all day long.
Exercise: Swam a few laps in my parents pool, and prenatal yoga this week. It is AMAZING how much lighter I feel in the pool without gravity pulling me and Adelyn down!
Belly button: It was starting to pucker a little bit the other day like the beginnings of an outie, but I'm looking now and it's back to its status quo "in-betweeny" state. I think it might be a little dependent on Adelyn's position and how she was pushed up against the middle of my belly/belly button the other day.
Wedding rings: Rocking my new fake $10 wedding band (and even got a compliment on it by the lady at the nail salon - lol).
Mood: Mostly good I think! Should we ask Mike? I did get really upset with him earlier this week when I mentioned that losing the baby weight might be hard in the months to come and he tried to assure me that I would be able to do it no problems -- because he doesn't KNOW what it's like, how could he even GET IT?!? Lol, sorry babe, love you!
Husband: Got approved to work overtime, so he's putting in extra hours where he can to help offset the time he'll be taking off work soon to be home with his new sweet baby. He's also working that around making sure he can now be at the rest of my OB/GYN appointments since we're so close and don't know what the doctor could have to say that's important at any given appointment.
Can't wait for: I'm still hoping to make it a litttlllleee longer before she arrives, but I can't wait for that time to pass and to be able to hold my sweet girl in my arms!
Also - some pictures that clearly illustrate my readiness to be a member of 2020 Olympic Women's Gymnastics Team...
Abs for days:
Abs for years:
Sorry - had to! ;)
Saturday, August 13, 2016
40 weeks
How far along: 40 weeks (no, I haven't had the baby yet!) ;)
Baby’s size: FULL BABY SIZED
Total weight gain / loss: +52.2 ?!?!? Did my scale break - seriously?? I will have to weigh again tomorrow, because I'm pretty sure that's not a good thing (at all!) to go up almost 10 pounds in one week if that's really right.
Maternity clothes: Clearly.
Stretch marks: Surprisingly, still no. I do think I could go a bit longer though, so there's still time, I've heard of a lot of mamas that get them right at the very end.
Sleep: Mostly I really can't complain - I do wake up here and there because I'm uncomfortable, have to pee, or have heartburn, but I usually go right back to sleep. Occasionally I have trouble falling asleep just because my mind starts going a mile a minute about a million different things (all baby related of course haha).
Loving: We just found out our neighbors across the street are pregnant and due in February, and I'm so in love with the fact that Adelyn will have a little playmate right across the street!
Loathing: The sniffles that remain after being sick last week. But I'm just so glad I don't actually feel sick any more!
Missing: I could REALLY go for a cocktail right about now...
Movement: She does seem to be moving a litttttlllle less lately as she runs out of room, but she also definitely still makes sure I know she's in there and doing good periodically throughout the day.
Cravings: I don't know that I'd go so far to call them cravings, but I do love ice cream and a good BLT lately!
Aversions: Fish. Ew.
Labor signs: Nada. I am continuing to have Braxton Hicks contractions, but no change in effacement (70%), and no dilation at all. She is still so high, the hospital doctor (did just a check up visit there since our doctor is out of the country for two weeks) pulled in a sonogram machine Thursday just to make sure she was head down since she was too high to feel like you often would be able to at this point. I believe the doctor's exact words were, "Yep, she's probably not coming any time soon. You're most definitely not having this baby tonight anyway!"
Symptoms: Heartburn (definitely still there, but I will say this is a little better than before - more of an annoyance that the severe "can't function, can't sleep" heartburn I had before), my swollen ankles and feet are back after a few weeks of a break from that, lower back pain if I stand for too long (and "too long" starts at about 5 minutes). It's not easy being 40 weeks pregnant, but honestly from talking to other people at this stage, it seems like I can't complain too much. The fact that I'm not dying to get this baby out of me yet probably says something too.
Exercise: I hate to admit it, but NONE. Trying to stay off of my feet as much as possible (still getting chores done around the house and out and about here and there running errands and such). I really should be doing yoga, but it just hasn't been happening.
Belly button: Still not popped -- maybe it just won't??
Wedding rings: I got a fake wedding band this week so people won't think I'm a knocked up single girl - of course, I do realize nobody probably cares about that except for me lol.
Mood: I'd say I had a good week! I do still feel more emotional than my normal self, but I've discovered this new tactic for not crying called 'don't let anyone talk about anything even remotely sad in front of you ever.' It's amazing how well it works when you are 40 weeks pregnant and just tell somebody to please stop talking and change the subject. ;)
Husband: He's been trying to get a few last minute things we'd like to have done before Adelyn gets here, but really at this point we are both just ready and waiting.
Can't wait for: The next two weeks to pass (yes, I really do think it could be that long), and welcome Adelyn into the world! Also, once she gets here and my mom can put a face to the name, she might start calling her Adelyn instead of Madelyn, so, ya know, that's pretty exciting! ;)
Baby’s size: FULL BABY SIZED
Total weight gain / loss: +52.2 ?!?!? Did my scale break - seriously?? I will have to weigh again tomorrow, because I'm pretty sure that's not a good thing (at all!) to go up almost 10 pounds in one week if that's really right.
Maternity clothes: Clearly.
Stretch marks: Surprisingly, still no. I do think I could go a bit longer though, so there's still time, I've heard of a lot of mamas that get them right at the very end.
Sleep: Mostly I really can't complain - I do wake up here and there because I'm uncomfortable, have to pee, or have heartburn, but I usually go right back to sleep. Occasionally I have trouble falling asleep just because my mind starts going a mile a minute about a million different things (all baby related of course haha).
Loving: We just found out our neighbors across the street are pregnant and due in February, and I'm so in love with the fact that Adelyn will have a little playmate right across the street!
Loathing: The sniffles that remain after being sick last week. But I'm just so glad I don't actually feel sick any more!
Missing: I could REALLY go for a cocktail right about now...
Movement: She does seem to be moving a litttttlllle less lately as she runs out of room, but she also definitely still makes sure I know she's in there and doing good periodically throughout the day.
Cravings: I don't know that I'd go so far to call them cravings, but I do love ice cream and a good BLT lately!
Aversions: Fish. Ew.
Labor signs: Nada. I am continuing to have Braxton Hicks contractions, but no change in effacement (70%), and no dilation at all. She is still so high, the hospital doctor (did just a check up visit there since our doctor is out of the country for two weeks) pulled in a sonogram machine Thursday just to make sure she was head down since she was too high to feel like you often would be able to at this point. I believe the doctor's exact words were, "Yep, she's probably not coming any time soon. You're most definitely not having this baby tonight anyway!"
Symptoms: Heartburn (definitely still there, but I will say this is a little better than before - more of an annoyance that the severe "can't function, can't sleep" heartburn I had before), my swollen ankles and feet are back after a few weeks of a break from that, lower back pain if I stand for too long (and "too long" starts at about 5 minutes). It's not easy being 40 weeks pregnant, but honestly from talking to other people at this stage, it seems like I can't complain too much. The fact that I'm not dying to get this baby out of me yet probably says something too.
Exercise: I hate to admit it, but NONE. Trying to stay off of my feet as much as possible (still getting chores done around the house and out and about here and there running errands and such). I really should be doing yoga, but it just hasn't been happening.
Belly button: Still not popped -- maybe it just won't??
Wedding rings: I got a fake wedding band this week so people won't think I'm a knocked up single girl - of course, I do realize nobody probably cares about that except for me lol.
Mood: I'd say I had a good week! I do still feel more emotional than my normal self, but I've discovered this new tactic for not crying called 'don't let anyone talk about anything even remotely sad in front of you ever.' It's amazing how well it works when you are 40 weeks pregnant and just tell somebody to please stop talking and change the subject. ;)
Husband: He's been trying to get a few last minute things we'd like to have done before Adelyn gets here, but really at this point we are both just ready and waiting.
Can't wait for: The next two weeks to pass (yes, I really do think it could be that long), and welcome Adelyn into the world! Also, once she gets here and my mom can put a face to the name, she might start calling her Adelyn instead of Madelyn, so, ya know, that's pretty exciting! ;)
39 weeks
How far along: 39 weeks
Baby’s size: 7-8 pounds, 19-21 inches, small pumpkin or watermelon
Total weight gain / loss: +44.2
Maternity clothes: Even those are becoming more limited these days.
Stretch marks: Still none yet!
Sleep: I've been sick, so lots of sleeping is going on - day and night.
Loving: It is taking me entirely too long to think of something to put here - come on, self, a little optimism... Okay, here's something - the fact that it is summer, and as a teacher, that affords me the opportunity to lay around sick and 39 weeks pregnant without having to worry about taking sick leave or getting back to work... That seriously is a big deal and I'm very lucky for it to be the case right now!
Loathing: Being sick (and particularly worried about going into labor so sick).
Missing: Just complaining about the woes of ONLY being pregnant, instead of being pregnant AND sick (I'm just a bundle of fun this week, I know).
Movement: She loves to squirm - I'll miss this part of being pregnant, although I'm of course so excited to meet Adelyn on the outside world!
Cravings: Now that I've been sick, I've been going through about 10 Popsicles a day (real fruit bar kind only please), and soup is my friend.
Aversions: Not even wanting ice cream right now - shocking, I know! I keep WANTING to want it though, ya know? So not sure if that counts as a real aversion. Fish, on the other hand, can stay the HELL away from me.
Labor signs: Increasing Braxton hicks, 70% effaced, dilation is under 1 cm, cervix and baby both still high. Dr says he thinks baby will be hanging in there for a bit still.
Symptoms: Achy hips (especially when laying down - have to switch sides every couple hours during the night), the heel of my left foot hurts badly - sometimes when I'm not even standing I'll get shooting pains in it, heartburn and trouble breathing of course. Tired and achy muscles, but I'm not sure if that's pregnancy or the virus I have at this point.
Exercise: Nothing but bed rest since I've been sick. :(
Belly button: Shockingly, we still do not have an outtie.
Wedding rings: I hope I can wear them soon after she arrives - I miss them!
Mood: YOU try being sick on top of being 39 weeks pregnant and having to worry about going into labor while feeling miserable and tell me how your mood holds up! ;)
Husband: Is patient and kind and takes on everything while I'm down for the count. I just wish he would rest more, but when there's stuff to be done, the man I married doesn't take a break!
Can't wait for: EASY this week - I just want to be healthy again (and SOON)!
Baby’s size: 7-8 pounds, 19-21 inches, small pumpkin or watermelon
Total weight gain / loss: +44.2
Maternity clothes: Even those are becoming more limited these days.
Stretch marks: Still none yet!
Sleep: I've been sick, so lots of sleeping is going on - day and night.
Loving: It is taking me entirely too long to think of something to put here - come on, self, a little optimism... Okay, here's something - the fact that it is summer, and as a teacher, that affords me the opportunity to lay around sick and 39 weeks pregnant without having to worry about taking sick leave or getting back to work... That seriously is a big deal and I'm very lucky for it to be the case right now!
Loathing: Being sick (and particularly worried about going into labor so sick).
Missing: Just complaining about the woes of ONLY being pregnant, instead of being pregnant AND sick (I'm just a bundle of fun this week, I know).
Movement: She loves to squirm - I'll miss this part of being pregnant, although I'm of course so excited to meet Adelyn on the outside world!
Cravings: Now that I've been sick, I've been going through about 10 Popsicles a day (real fruit bar kind only please), and soup is my friend.
Aversions: Not even wanting ice cream right now - shocking, I know! I keep WANTING to want it though, ya know? So not sure if that counts as a real aversion. Fish, on the other hand, can stay the HELL away from me.
Labor signs: Increasing Braxton hicks, 70% effaced, dilation is under 1 cm, cervix and baby both still high. Dr says he thinks baby will be hanging in there for a bit still.
Symptoms: Achy hips (especially when laying down - have to switch sides every couple hours during the night), the heel of my left foot hurts badly - sometimes when I'm not even standing I'll get shooting pains in it, heartburn and trouble breathing of course. Tired and achy muscles, but I'm not sure if that's pregnancy or the virus I have at this point.
Exercise: Nothing but bed rest since I've been sick. :(
Belly button: Shockingly, we still do not have an outtie.
Wedding rings: I hope I can wear them soon after she arrives - I miss them!
Mood: YOU try being sick on top of being 39 weeks pregnant and having to worry about going into labor while feeling miserable and tell me how your mood holds up! ;)
Husband: Is patient and kind and takes on everything while I'm down for the count. I just wish he would rest more, but when there's stuff to be done, the man I married doesn't take a break!
Can't wait for: EASY this week - I just want to be healthy again (and SOON)!
Man, that's one big baby!
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Baby 2 - 10 weeks
I suppose it’s time to start this - a few weeks later than I did with Adelyn. Sorry sweet baby #2, mama’s a little busier than I was with yo...
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Where do I begin? How does a mom write this kind of post? We've been able to fill most of our friends and family in at this point, but... -
I suppose it’s time to start this - a few weeks later than I did with Adelyn. Sorry sweet baby #2, mama’s a little busier than I was with yo... -
How far along: 16 weeks Baby’s size: Avocado Total weight gain / loss: +3.8 (which is down 0.6 from last week - is that normal??) Gender...