Tuesday, October 30, 2012

No news

No news is not good news.  Today's appointment was disappointing.  I really don't know more than I already did an hour ago.  No internal check, no discussion of labor inducing procedures, nada. 

What a difference a day can make.  Yesterday I said I wasn't ready.  But after being totally uncomfortable last night, I think I am.  She's got no room in there.  I've got no room to move around.  I'm achy and crampy all the time.  I'm tired and cranky.  I could cry at the drop of, well anything.  Just the thought of three more weeks is agony.

I know its all for the best. 

We just continue to impatiently wait.

Monday, October 29, 2012

Are you ready?

I've been asked this question a million times lately.  I'm never sure how to answer it.

Yes, her room is ready.  Yes, I have everything I think I need.  So I guess, yes I'm ready.

Physically, my back aches, my ribs are tired of being kicked, these cramps are getting annoying, so I guess, Yes, I'm ready.

Emotionally though, I don't think I'm ready at all.  I feel like I do during the holidays.  Happy, go-lucky, just enjoying the magical time.  But I know as soon as it comes and its over.... blah!  The excitement is over and its back to real life.  Although I know in this situation, life will never be the same.  I guess I'm already preparing myself for the let down, which is horrible!  I need to tell myself that life is going to get better and a little miracle is coming into our lives.

Holy Shit... a real child is going to be in our lives!  I'm petrified of caring for a child.  I'm so not ready for her to come yet.

I'm also hoping this will last as long as possible because this might be it.  This might be the only chance I get to do this and I want to savor every minute of it.  Just like not wanting to take my wedding dress off because I knew I would never wear one again.  But, eventually I had to. 

Eventually this baby will have to come out.  I'm excited to finally meet the little wiggle worm and see what she looks like.  Its like I've been staring at the big package under the tree for weeks and its finally time to open it.  I know what's inside will bring me hours of joy, but I've already grown to love the hours of joy in the anticipation.  Will one be just as good as the other? 

I guess we just have to wait and see.

Winter Melon


How far along: 37 weeks.... full term!

How big is baby:  18.9-20.9 inches, 6.2-9.2 lb-  lets hope on the side of 6.2 pounds!
Total weight gain:  Enough... plenty enough!
Maternity clothes:  Its gotten colder here.  Its harder to find things for an entire work week.  I've got three long sleeve shirts.  Thankfully I have a ton of cardi's and I can just layer up
Sleep:  Not so much anymore.  Between the heartburn and the aches and pains, its not very comfortable.

Best moment this week:  Learning that baby girl was head down!  I had a hunch, based upon my reoccurring pelvic pain, but it was nice to know she's turned herself and she's locked and loaded!
Gender: Girl, GIRL, GIRL!!!!!

Craving:  I'm back to beer.  Soon... I can wait.  I've made it this long.
Movement:  She's been playful this week.  I can clearly feel where her body parts are.  Its fun to poke at her feet and feel them move.  Or pat her back and feel her squirm.  I think she'll be a cuddler when she comes out.

Labor Signs:  I think I had my first real contractions Saturday night.  I was crampy enough that it woke me up, and my back was also killing me.  I could feel my belly tense up, but nothing was rhythmic and it faded away enough for me to go back to sleep.  I haven't felt anymore since then.  I'm eager to see what tomorrow's appointment brings.

Belly Button in or out:  Its in.  I certainly hope I don't get any bigger for it to stretch out.
Stretch marks: None! yippee!

What I am looking forward to: Tomorrow's appointment.  I was disappointed last week that there wasn't any progress.  I'm hoping for a little more this time.  Although I would really like her to wait till November to get here, but that's Thursday!

Milestones: I finally got all my shower Thank You's written!  However, they are still on the bar waiting to go in the mail!  But they are written, sealed, and stamped!

Thursday, October 25, 2012

Burn Baby Burn

If the old wives tale is true, then Abby is gonna have a whole head full of beautiful hair because the constant heartburn is killing me!

Morning, noon, and night.  It seems like it always there.  And it always happens when I don't have easy access to the tums. 

I don't like feeling like my throat is on fire.  Night time is the worst.  Thankfully (knock on wood) it doesn't keep me up at night, but I certainly notice it while I am awake a night (thank you baby laying on bladder).

I've found a few things that contribute to it.  It took me a while to figure out the greek yogurt did it.  But tomato products also do it.  Like the big bowl of tomato soup I ate last night.  That was not smart, and I won't do that one again!

I can't wait to see all this beautiful baby hair!

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Patiently waiting

Today started weekly check ups.  Something I wish I could have done from the beginning.  You know, being the worry wart that I am, its comforting to have an experts opinion.

So far I'm not doing anything.  Cervix is softening, but not doing much else.  Abby has flipped to head down.  Yeah!  I already knew that though.  Given the pressure that's back on my pelvis, I knew something was up.  Getting out of bed usually results in a few pain straining moments as I try to hoist myself up and out. 

7 days till another check.  In the mean time we just wait.  All is ready and set to go.  I'm paying attention to all the signs (probably too much, but that's nothing new!).  I've had a few heavier cramps, but nothing "rhythmic". 

For now we are just patiently waiting!

Monday, October 22, 2012

Honey Dew


How far along: 36 weeks

How big is baby:  17.2-18.7 inches, 4.2-5.8 lb.

Total weight gain:  Who knows!  Its gonna be a lot more if I keep eating those M&M's in my desk!

Maternity clothes:  Everything is snug.  Even shirts.  Its strange to think how baggy things were a few weeks ago.

Sleep:  I'm trying to get all I can.  Its uncomfortable.  Its hard to roll over.  It also hurts to roll over, everywhere.  Mostly my back and crotch!
Best moment this week:  My birthday was last week.  I got my first Happy Birthday Mom card!

Gender: Girl, GIRL, GIRL!!!!!

Craving:  Right now, those M&M's in my desk.  I could eat the entire bag (and its the big bag!)

Movement: She's still moving around in there.  She's still got her personal space issues.  If I lay on my left side, she will poke or kick at me.  I guess she doesn't like that.

Labor Signs:  I think my braxton hicks have increased.  I'm not sure if its that or she is pushing on me.  I've also started to feel crampy again.  I haven't noticed any rhythm to anything, but I'm paying attention.
Belly Button in or out:  Its in, and I think it will stay that way.

Stretch marks: None! yippee!

What I am looking forward to: My first internal check is tomorrow.  I'm excited to see if there is any progress.  Although I want her to cook as long as possible.  I will enjoy these weekly check ups!

Milestones: The hospital bag is packed and in the car.  I guess that means I'm ready?!?!

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Miss Independent

I'm very independent.  Almost stubbornly independent at times.  But yesterday, I realized I should take advantage of help.  Things are getting harder to do.  Its harder to move around, its awkward, its uncomfortable. 

I tackled the grocery store yesterday after work.  We needed a few things that couldn't wait any longer.  When I got there it was so crowded!  Its usually busier in the evenings when I go, but this time it was crazy.  And I always get stuck behind the slow, old people.  I have a very distinct system in the store.  I always follow the same route, and I always follow my list.  (I actually have an app that will organize your list by the aisles in the store.  I love it.  I just go down the list and when I get to the bottom, checkout!).

Anyway, after a long day at work, I wasn't prepared for the business at the store.  I had quite a few items to get, so my cart was full, and heavy.  Normally, Miss Independent, would push the buggy out to her car herself and load it up, but yesterday, for the first time, I let the bagman (he was over 65, so he wasn't a bagboy), take it all to my car.  Its a small thing, but I realized it would be so much easier on myself to just let him do it for me.  I didn't need to overdo myself anymore.  The parking lot is always hard to maneuver and he packed the bags all crazy so I didn't need to do any heavy lifting. 

It felt really odd giving up that little bit of control.  I've heard so many people tell me lately that I should take it easy.  Sometimes I've almost felt like an invalid because people won't let me do anything.  Even simple things.  I've had an uncomplicated pregnancy (knock on wood), and I've gone about my life as usual.  The doctors didn't put any restrictions on anything I could do. 

I'm not a complainer.  You take what you are given and you work with it.  No excuses, no exceptions. Its been frustrating at times to relinquish this idea.  I know it will be over soon and everyone will return to their normal selves.  :)

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Blogversary

Today its been one year since I started journaling my journey.  Of course, my journey started long before that, but when I was in a really low valley of darkness, I thought having a place to express myself might help me through to the other side. 

Its been very therapeutic.  More than I could have imagined.  Its helped me through the bad times and helped me document the good times. 

I took a stroll down memory lane, starting here with my very first post. Probably one of the darkest places I've been.  The day I knew our FET didn't work.  At the end of last year I was clinging to Hope.  In early January I blogged about how much Woody meant to me.  He's become very clingy again, I wonder if that's a sign of labor?

I laugh at this post... Its just Karma.  All I want right now is a beer.

Then there was another anniversary post, followed three days later by my happiest post yet.

The rest of the year has been filled with excitement and expectations.

Excitement here, here, and here.  And there are plenty more, I could probably link them all. 

I can't believe what a journey the last year has been.  With out this blog, I'm not sure I could fully remember all the ups and downs.  Life seems to be happening so fast.  I can't wait for Abby to get here and me to start journaling her life.  All the little things that she does to amaze me.  All the joys and sorrows we share with her. 

Always remembering the precious miracle we have.




Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Finally did it

For years I would avoid the employee health nurse this time of year.  Its flu shot season.  We aren't required to get one at work (except for the year of H1N1), but its highly recommended.  You have to sign a waiver if you don't.  For 9 years, I've gladly signed that wavier.

Why?

Because I'm a pussy.  And I don't like needles.  That's all a false statement now.  How can someone who's been through multiple IVF's hate needles?  I still don't like them, but I tolerate them.

This year though, for Abby's health, I needed to get one.  So yesterday was the first day you could get one, so I marched upstairs and smiled at the nurse.  She almost peed her pants with excitement.  She let me have the comfy reclining chair.  (Which I could have stayed in for a while).

She jabbed my left arm and pushed in that juice and damn if it didn't hurt!  Son of a-----!  Again, confirmation that I'm a pussy! 

My arm still aches, 24 hours later. It was hard to sleep on the side last night because the muscle was so sore.  My IM trigger shots didn't even hurt this bad!

The things you do for your children. 

Last one done

We had our last baby class last night.  It was the one I was most looking forward too, the Taking Care of Baby class.  It was going to teach you about what to do after birth and how you care for your new one.  Of course, I've reviewed the Internet and I've watched videos, but its always nice to hear it from a person and be able to ask questions.

Gene wasn't thrilled to go, but he went along.  I turned out to be the same instructor as our birthing class, so that was nice.  I liked her teaching style.  Although last night, it did start to get on my nerves a little bit.  She would bring up a topic, and then ask anyone if they knew anything about it.  Most of us didn't, which is why we were there.  It just started to get old.  Maybe I was just tired and cranky. Anyways....

I did learn how to swaddle.  I'm now a baby burrito making champ.  We also learned the proper technique to diapering.  Gene was insistent that we put the cloth diaper on the baby's head like an Amish cap.  I kept trying to tell him that was incredibly rude and inconsiderate.  He finally gave in after I took the diaper away. 

The final part of the class was spent going over the Happiest Baby on the Block theory.  This involves using various techniques to soothe the baby.  It was good to know some of these tips.  I would have never thought that placing the baby on their side would soothe them.  I also wouldn't have thought to shush them in their ears, really loudly, either.  I'm hoping we don't have to use the techniques, but I know we will at some point, so I'm glad we were both instructed on them. 

Now all we have to do is wait. 

Lemonade anyone?

Monday, October 15, 2012

Coconut

How far along: 35 weeks, 35 days to go!

How big is baby:  She is now a little coconut! 4.2-5.8 pounds!   17.2-18.7 inches long.

Total weight gain:  All in the hips and thighs!

Maternity clothes:  I broke down and bought another pair of khaki pants.  I just couldn't see myself last 5 more weeks, plus postpartum with what I had.  They were a good sale, and I know I will where them several times in the next 5 weeks.  They are so much more comfy than the bella band.

Sleep:  The weird dreams have returned.  Its just one crazy dream after another

Best moment this week:  Hearing her heartbeat at my check up.  Nice and strong.

Gender: Girl, GIRL, GIRL!!!!!

Craving:  No big cravings this week.  I'm just trying to watch what goes in because I know its all going to my hips.

Movement: She is still enjoying rooting in my ribs.  Its also fun to grab at parts that poke out.  You can poke it and it will move away.  I like to follow it and tease it.

Labor Signs:  None yet.  The doctor assured me that I will know when its time. I sure hope so!

Belly Button in or out:  Its in, and I think it will stay that way.

Stretch marks: None! yippee!

What I am looking forward to: Tonight is our baby care class.  I'm hoping I get more out of it than the other two classes.  I know how to change a diaper and bathe her, but I'm looking forward to some tips and some reassurance that you can't break her!

Milestones: We put the car seat in last night.  It looks weird in the back seat.  Woody and JJ are going to have to get use to riding on the other side of the car.  I've also washed all her sheets and some of her clothes (the ones she will wear now).  The clothes still need to be folded, and resorted, but they are clean and ready for use.

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Roto Rooter

I think I've discovered something the Abby has inherited from her father.  Her ability to root.

Every night when we get into bed, Gene curls up on his right side and plays of the iPad.  I lay to his left, usually watching TV.  He will curl his feet up next to meet and root them somewhere to get warm.  (In the dead of winter this always makes me squeal).  He roots.  Every night, finding the right spot for his feet.

It seems like Abby has learned that.  She has taken up a spot in my right rib cage.  Its not too terribly uncomfortable, but its painful to have to bend or move on that side.  Poking at it just seems to make it worse because then she reacts.  I just subliminally send her messages to move!

I'm glad to see she's already learned something from her Dad!

Monday, October 8, 2012

Do I smell good?

Because I've been showered! 

I didn't have any expectations for a shower.  Early on a great friend asked if she could host a shower for me and of course I excepted. 

We picked out a date months ago.  I was hesitant to wait till 34 weeks, but I knew that's what worked for everyone.  I kept having nightmares that I would deliver before the shower!  Thankfully that didn't happen. 

I didn't want anything specific.  It was mostly for the church ladies to come and ooh and ahh over me.  JJ wanted to come till I told him it wasn't like our usual parties.  He was glad to go to soccer instead. 

I was welcome yesterday to a room filled with pink and green flowers. Sweet little tea sandwiches and fruits on a beautiful table.  Delicious cake squares. And pink punch.

I spent at least an hour opening gifts.  It seemed like it would never end.  I'm embarrassed to admit that I got so hot I sweated to the vinyl seat.  That was a gross surprise when I stood up! 

I was pleased to see so many things that I had registered for.  I'm grateful for all my gifts, but I've been holding off getting some of the things I wanted (needed) till after the shower.  I think the pack in play was my most exciting gift to cross of my want list.  I was beginning to convince myself that she could just start in the crib from day one and I could just suck it up walking up and down the stairs.  I can't wait to get it out the box and set it up!

The diaper pail was also an exciting gift.  The last thing I want is a stinky room.  She's too cute to stink!

I received several bonnets.  Who knew bonnets were so popular?!?

I received a lot of bath items.  I guess she will be smelling good too.  I have to set them all out so I can see exactly how much body wash and bubble bath there is! 

Something that wasn't a shower gift, but I did receive them this weekend, was baby clothes that belonged to me and my mother.  The dresses are adorable and perfectly vintage.  I can't wait to see Abby in them.  I know vintage is in, but it just makes them better that they are family heirlooms.  Most of them handmade by earlier generations!

It was a wonderful day.  I have pictures, but I haven't done anything with them yet.  I was too tired last night to do much of anything.  I have it on this weeks to do list, so I'll see what I get around too!


Butternut Squash

How far along: 34

How big is baby:  The size of a butternut squash. What's with all the squashes?!?!?  4.2-5.8 pounds!   17.2-18.7 inches long.

Total weight gain:  Plenty

Maternity clothes:  I've busted out the bella band again.  I'm trying not to buy more pants.  It still drives me crazy, but I keep reminding myself that its not much longer!
Sleep:  Ehh... its not so easy anymore. It hurts my pelvis to lay on my sides, but it hurts my back to lay on my back.  I've been having crazy dreams again.  I'm also extremely hot at night!

Best moment this week:  My shower was yesterday.  It was so nice to have so many people around me to support me. We received so many great things.  I would much rather be at home right now sorting through it all then stuck here at work! 
Gender: Girl, GIRL, GIRL!!!!!

Craving:  chocolate lately.  Mostly at work, were I don't have any.  I keep looking for candy sales so I can stock up on some, but then I convince myself that I don't need it.

Movement: She's become a pusher.  She's not kicking much anymore, but she will push her arm or leg against my sides.  At times you can even grab at it.  Sometimes she will pull away and sometimes she won't.  Its really weird to feel around for her parts and try to guess what they are.  Gene is now fascinated by this.
Labor Signs:  I'm getting anxious that I won't know when there are signs.  I don't want to be that person that calls the nurse line all the time and its a false alarm.  I'm going to ask at my appointment tomorrow about specific things I should pay attention too.
Belly Button in or out:  Still in.  The skin around it is very sore though.  Gene likes to stick is finger in it, and it really hurts when he does that.  I guess its just tired of stretching!

Stretch marks: None!
What I am looking forward to: I'm ready to get all the last things we need.  I plan to hit up both Target and Babies R Us this week for the last few necessities.  I'm ready to get her room all organized.  I'll start washing her clothes soon.  It could be any time now and I want to be ready!

Milestones:     I think the shower was a milestone.  Its something I never thought I would have.  It was great to be spoiled for a day.  It was better than Christmas!

Friday, October 5, 2012

Life as I know it

In a few short weeks I will be the mother of a newborn, and a tween.  Its hard for me to see JJ as a tween.  He's growing up so fast.  I still see him as the bubbly little boy I met years ago.

He's 11 now.  He's in middle school.  He's become into his appearance, some.  He cares about what he wears and if it looks good.  He spends time fixing his hair. (Although there isn't much you can do with his stick straight short hair, but he tries). 

Today after school there is a dance.  He went to the dances in Elementary school, but he never really wanted to.  We had to talk him into it, and he usually went with a soccer ball in hand, hoping he would just get time to play with his friends, rather than dance.   But this year, there was no arm twisting.  He was eager to go.

Last night he came to me to ask me an important question.  He held two different deodorants in his hand, and he ask me which one he should wear tomorrow.  He proceeded to open each one and let me smell them.  I had to hold back my giggles.  Did that really just happen?  Did he really just ask what he should smell like?  Does he really care that much?!?!? 

Wow!

I did chuckle when he wasn't in ear shot anymore.  It was cute to see him growing up.  He talked about his one classmate was going to ask a girl to dance, and JJ was convinced she would say no.  I've been encouraging JJ to learn how to dance Gangnam Style.  What better way to exploit his Asian heritage right?!?  The ladies already love his moves, why not use it to his advantage.  He showed me a little of what he can do this morning.

I can't wait to hear all about it.  I can't believe he's growing up. 

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

You won't know until you try

Last night was our second of three prenatal classes.  After already enduring the day long child birthing class, I was looking forward to the shorter classes.

Breastfeeding was up first.  I was able to convince Gene to come with me for moral support.  It was recommended a spouse, or care partner come with you so in your sleep deprived moments post baby birth, you'll have another brain that might be able to help you sort out any difficulties you might have.

As soon as we got to class I scanned for familiar faces.  Luckily I didn't seen any of the extreme question askers from the child birth class, but that didn't mean that there wasn't a few new ones in hiding. 

We settled into our seats, complete with our practice baby. She seemed disproportionate to me, but what do I know about babies.  The instructor began with her power points, and droned on and on for over an hour.  clicking through slide after slide, but not remembering what was on each slide so many of them she kept repeating herself. 

I didn't really know what to expect going into this class.  We did get to practice a few positions, and see how it feels to hold the baby.  She briefly talked about pumps and things.  She spent the most time talking about latching and its importance. 

In the end I determined that breastfeeding is just one of those things that you can't explain until you try it.  Every woman is different and every baby is different.  She did talk about the correct way to put the baby to breast and how not to unlatch them.  I would think all of this could be covered as a one on one lesson once the baby arrives.  Which I know they will do anyway.  She already told us a lactation consultant would be by multiple times during the day to check on you. 

I feel like I was suckered out of my time and money on this one.  Lets hope the last one, the baby care/happiest baby on the block class is better!

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Nuttin To It

But to do it.

That's pretty much what the doctor told me last week when I asked about my pelvic pain.  Suck it up sista, its only gonna getting worse before it gets better.

And, I knew that's what she was going to say. Dr. Google told me that!  And, I'm fine with that.  I just didn't want it to be something more serious that I was overlooking because I'm getting second opinions from Dr. Google. 

Usually at night, when I put my cankles up in the recliner, I stuff the cherry pit warmer in my crouch and let out a manly sigh. I've tried to use a pillow between my legs at night, but I turn too often and it just gets bunched under the covers.  It does seem to help some, but I'm not sure its worth the fight under the covers.  Tylenol PM also helps on those days when its just too much.

Anything is bearable at this point.  I've made it this far, its nothing compared to how far I've come.  It was three years ago that we decided that we would start trying.  Three years ago I ditched the birth control pills.  Two years ago I sat in front of Dr. Miller talking about options, drugs, and womanly functions.  One year ago I was hopeful that the second time would be the charm. The amount of pain felt during those times is far worse than anything I'm feeling now.  At least at this point I know there is an end to it all. 

Nuttin to it, but to do it.

Monday, October 1, 2012

Durian

First of all, what is a durian?  Its apparently a fruit native to southeast Asia.  Apparently is smells really bad.  And it apparently is something I don't really want to eat!

How far along: 33

How big is baby:  The size of a durian.  4.2-5.8 pounds!  Wow!  17.2-18.7 inches long.
Total weight gain:  If you subtract all the cookies I've eaten, not much at all!

Maternity clothes:  I had a blow out of one of my pairs of pants this week.  The crotch got a hole in it.  And I don't think its repairable.  They are linen and it just looks like the fabric shredded.  Now I only have two pairs.  I don't really want to buy another pair but I don't think I can make it 7 more weeks with just two pairs of work pants.

Sleep:  Hasn't been too bad lately.  I've accepted the aches and pains that come with it and they extra energy it takes to get out of bed every time. 
Best moment this week:  Having her interact with Gene.  He likes to snuggle up to her in the mornings.  He will rest his hands on my belly and its fun to watch his reaction when she moves around.  I always get a laugh when he asks me, "Did you feel that!"

Gender: Girl, GIRL, GIRL!!!!!

Craving:  All the same. But there isn't one thing that I just have to have and I can't go another minute without.  I haven't sent Gene out at night for anything.  I think that's ridiculous.  Its just a craving, not a need.  If we don't have it at home, then too bad.  But, we have most things at home, so I'm good!  :)

Movement: She's exploring her little home.  She has personal space issues (don't know where she gets that from!)  She doesn't like it when I rest of hands/arms on my belly.  I feel a lot of kicking and punching then.  I guess I wouldn't like it either if my tiny cocoon was being severely squished!

Labor Signs:  None yet, but I guess its time to start paying attention.  With just 7 weeks to go, anything can happen.
Belly Button in or out:  In, but flatter.  Confession Time:  I think outies are icky and I hope I don't get one.
Stretch marks: None!
What I am looking forward to: My shower is Sunday!  My mom comes this weekend.  She hasn't seen me since June.  She's in for a shock!  Also my BFF from high school is coming with her little girl.  She wanted to throw me a shower but it just didn't work out for me to get back there for one.  I'm excited that she is able to come. I can't wait to celebrate little Abby!

Milestones:   I organized her clothes this week.  They still need to be washed, but they are in the drawers according to size.  I'm waiting till after the shower to start washing things.  Just in case I need to take some things back.  (Who am I kidding, I love all her clothes, I'm keeping them weather I have too many or not!).  I enjoy spending time in her room.  She also enjoys it.  She gets active when I sit in the glider. I can't believe how soon she will be here.