Pregnant Susans - Part 2

[MrsReber]

Easter candy already?? Seems too early. I'm glad there's none here or I'd eat it! I'm right there with you on the weight. So far it's a total of 32 pounds, according to my doctor's scale. I am hoping to keep it in check and not go over 40. I can live with having to lose 10-15 pounds, but 20 is out of the question! It doesn't help that I'm having a hungry day today. I didn't do too badly all weekend. We brought a ton of fruit and healthy snacks. We don't like to eat road food, but we did have to settle for BK for dinner on Friday.

I keep reading that the baby is supposed to move less as it grows since there's less room in the womb. I haven't noticed any decrease in movement yet. I'm still about a week away from completing the 7th month. It is going to be so strange to bring a baby home from the hospital. I can't even imagine what that will be like. I'm going to be a wreck! I'll never sleep, I'll be constantly checking on the baby for the first few days. I just know it. Yes, we can always go through this again! All in all, pregnancy is not bad. I've had aches and pains and I'm tired, but I can't really complain. We do want more. I'd love three children, but we'll have to see how number one goes and then consider number two. Kyle mentioned trying again next spring! We'll have to see about that!

[kwormann]

He's already talking about #2??????Cant you tell he isnt the one carrying it! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

kim

[SusanD]

Susan...you're right...that thread was getting waaaay too long!

That's funny that Kyle could feel the baby kicking when he hugged you. Mine's packing a mean punch too. I was sitting in a meeting yesterday with my arms folded and resting on top of my belly, and all of a sudden she kicked so hard that my arms moved! It was pretty funny, everyone was staring at me. I had a dr. appointment last night - I've now gained 29 pounds total. Unfortunately the easter candy that people keep bringing in to work isn't helping any!

It's funny...on one hand, I am so ready to be done with this pregnancy, looking forward to actually holding my baby (not to mention sleeping on my stomach and wearing my old clothes again), but on the other hand I know I'm going to miss being pregnant! So I'm really trying to cherish every moment while I can. Of course if I REALLY miss it, I guess I can always have another baby... http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/eek.gif

[MrsReber]

Last night, dh was talking to the baby again. He looks at me and thinks it looks really uncomfortable. So he tells the baby to take it easy on me for the next couple of months. Yep, he's been talking about number 2 for a while now. I'm pretty surprised by that, but better to know that he wants them. This guy I work with was in the elevator with me yesterday. He asked when I was due and he said "don't worry- delivery is a breeze....for the guy."

[SusanD]

Fortunately Jay isn't talking about #2 just yet - I think he realizes how long it took me to psyche myself up for this one! I do know that I want to space them out a little, I'd like to wait till this one's two years old before we start trying again. Of course I say that now, but who knows, maybe I'll be itching for another one sooner than that. I also told Jay that I want to be pregnant at the same time of year so that I can wear all these clothes again!

By the way, how are the shower arrangements coming?

Oh, by the way, I heard something really interesting this morning. I was getting my daily cup of decaf (ugh) when a woman started telling me about her daughter who just found out that she has two uteruses! Is that the most bizarre thing? She has two separate monthly cycles...and could potentially carry and deliver two babies (but not twins) at the same time! Can you imagine being pregnant and having to still use birth control, or being 5 months along and finding out that you're pregnant again? "I'm due in April, and then again in August" http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/eek.gif

[This message has been edited by SusanD (edited 03-21-2001).]

[MrsReber]

Well, I have no idea about the shower arrangements. The only comment hubby made last night was "well, everyone will have plenty of time to shop!" He told them they won't be able to get me out of the house since they're planning it so late. As far as he heard, they still didn't know where they were having it! With my wedding shower, my mom found a place up near her house. Worked great for her, but everyone else had to travel half an hour or more to get there. We are concerned, though, since it'll be so close to my due date (I don't know the exact date). Since we obviously don't know what people are going to buy, we may be running out to the store at the last minute to get things that we desperately need- or returning and exchanging items since the majority of the people don't even know where I'm registered. The other thing is if they decide to have it when Kyle decides to go turkey hunting in VA, they are all going to have to bring the gifts back to my house since he won't be there to help with the truck and I certainly can't carry big things.

Wow, 2 uteruses? That is the strangest thing I ever heard. One cycle is enough for me!

Our carpet should be installed next Wednesday. Then we can finally get the furniture! I really thought the room would be done by now. Silly me. I feel like we're running out of time. I can't even imagine how you must be feeling!

[MrsReber]

SusanD, did you go to a separate breastfeeding class? I have one tonight and I was just wondering if you had gone to one. I can't remember!!! Tried to get Kyle to go. First he said no, then he said he might go and now he says "do I have to go??" I don't want him to feel uncomfortable, but I'm sure there would be other men there- who were forced by their wives to attend! Mostly, I'd just like the company. It's about 20 minutes from home and it's not over until 9:00. I am going to fall asleep! I am going to leave work a little early to catch the earlier train. That'll at least give me enough time to change and get a little something to eat. Very dizzy today. Not sure if it's the weather. No word from the boss yet. I hope he talks to me soon. The time is drawing near!

[SusanD]

No, I haven't had the breastfeeding class yet. Next Wednesday. Tonight is our last baby class, I can't believe 6 weeks went so fast! Jay is hoping they talk about stuff like changing diapers, bathing, etc. I did a lot of babysitting when I was younger, plus my brother and sister are 6 and 8 years younger than me, so I already feel comfortable with that kind of stuff. I guess I just assume that everyone knows how to change a diaper! I already told Jay that he doesn't have to go to the breastfeeding class with me. I'm sure there will be some guys there - but knowing Jay it would be more than he could handle. Better for both of us if he just stays home!

That's strange that your boss hasn't talked to you yet about your maternity leave. Have you talked w/your HR department about how far in advance you need to start making arrangements? I called HR and they sent up the paperwork that I needed and then I had my boss sign everything plus there was a form that my doctor had to fill out. I'm starting my maternity leave on April 27th and scheduled to come back on July 23. But my boss is having me keep a record of where I am on all my projects and train other people in the department on some of my day to day stuff just in case I go into labor early. Hopefully that doesn't happen - we're not even close to ready! Although the joke now is that her room is such a mess...clothes & toys everywhere because we don't have the dressers & trunk painted yet...that it's probably no different than how it will look when she's a teenager!

[MrsReber]

Yes, it's very weird that my boss hasn't spoken to me. I told him at the end of November that we need to talk about it, then I got a bunch of info from HR about leave and what I need to do. I devised my own plan and sent it to my boss on Feb. 2nd. He said he wanted to talk to HR himself and he had a big meeting coming up with them so we'd sit down after he talked with them. Well, he forgot to mention my leave in the meeting so he cancelled our meeting. I sent him yet another message last week saying we have less than 8 weeks to go. That's when he told me we'd talk either today or tomorrow. Still no word. One of the guys that I support here is going crazy. He keeps asking my boss to let him know what's going on because he relies heavily on me. I told my boss I don't want to commute in after May 11th, but I'd be perfectly willing to work from home.

I am wondering if there's a form that my doctor has to fill out. I would think so. HR told me that they will take care of filing for state disability once the company's four weeks of disability runs out. At least that's one less thing to worry about.

I didn't think Kyle would want to go to the breastfeeding class. I'd hate for him to be uncomfortable, but I sure wouldn't mind having someone drive me there and back! Once again, Jay sounds like Kyle (or vice versa). I think he'd freak if I told him he had to go with me.

Hey, you never know- the baby could always be early! At least you're close to your hospital where you work. I'm at least an hour and a half away. I'd be scared to death to go into labor in this town! What I wouldn't do for a nap right now......

[SusanD]

I wonder if your boss has ever had anyone else go on maternity leave? He may not understand that you can't schedule a baby like you do a meeting! How frustrating.

Fingers crossed this one doesn't come too early...we've still got so much to do. I bought the Pack & Play yesterday on my lunch hour, they were on sale at Target. I think we're going to go buy the carseat this weekend, although I dread going into USA Baby on Saturdays because it's always such a zoo! I did get a couple of duplicate gifts for my shower, so I'm going to return those and get a Baby Bjorn too. I've heard those are an absolute must...they're just so darned expensive. I have this big list of everything I still need to get, and I just keep it in my purse and everytime I go to Target or wherever I make it a point to buy at least one thing on the list. That way I don't have to buy it all at once.

How was your breatfeeding class? Did you learn a lot? Did they say anything about feeding/sleeping schedules? I know there's so many books out about that...Baby Wise, Baby Whisperer...just curious to know what they say about it.

Any experienced moms out there...please feel free to jump in at this point! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif How many of you have tried the "schedule" method for sleeping/feeding? Have any of you read these books? Please help!!!!

[MrsReber]

I really enjoyed the class and I'm glad I went. There were quite a few husbands there, too, and they even joined in with questions. I learned alot. I'll probably rattle on here, but it was so interesting. The class was run by the hospital lactation specialist. She's there all week from 8-4 and we can call her after the babies arrive if we need support or have questions. She made me feel alot more confident about the whole thing. We all know that the benefits are great, but she went over alot of benefits I didn't know about. Susan, after reading your post on the cholesterol thread, I thought you'd find this interesting- breastfed babies tend to have lower cholesterol as adults. Breastmilk is very high in cholesterol and the baby's system learns how to get rid of it easily when it's introduced so early. Breastfeeding also reduces the risk of ovarian, uterine, and breast cancer in the mother! I did not know that! Also, they have found that breastfed babies generally have a higher IQ. We watched a video where the babies were placed on the mother's stomach right after delivery. The one baby that had a natural delivery with no drugs crawled right up the mother's stomach, latched on and began to feed. All on its own!! The one baby that was delivered with a narcotic was too groggy and didn't quite make it and another baby that was delivered with an epidural only found its way. She told us that you just never know what can happen with a delivery and whether you'll need an epidural for a few hours or a few days. But no matter, she thinks that all women can teach their child anything and with some patience, they can learn to breastfeed. We went over so many things. I hope I can remember them all! It costs between three and five thousand dollars to buy formula for one year while breastfeeding is well under $1,000. She did say to buy a good pump if you're going back to work. They suggest the Medela pumps (which is what I registered for). I could rent one from the hospital, but it's $50/month so it's probably more cost effective to just buy one.

The class did run over so I didn't get home until almost 10:00. I am tired today! I had to eat something when I got home since I was, of course, hungry. I felt much better about myself after being with all those other moms, though. The woman next to me is due on May 21st and she's huge! She looks like she can delivery any day! This is number 4 for her! The woman on the other side of me has been having problems with water retention since her third month! She hasn't been able to wear her wedding ring and her feet swell up so bad that they hurt. My feet swell a little bit, but nothing like that. My shoes fit differently at the end of the day and my little toes will hurt. I barely looked pregnant next to some of these women. The class was really full, too. They had to pull extra chairs in.

Now I can't wait for the birthing classes. I feel like I'm ready now! My mom bought me Baby Wise. It's interesting, but I question if it can work for everyone. We were told a breastfed baby will feed 8-12 times in 24 hours. They don't get as much as if they were drinking formula from a bottle, but they don't need to since the nutrients in breastmilk are condensed. I think you have more flexibility with bottle feeding, but you certainly don't get the benefits. So, plan to be up for night along with me! They say not to introduce a bottle to a breastfed baby for at least 4 weeks so that breastfeeding is well established.

I was so happy to hear they use one room for labor, delivery and recovery. She also said that we dictate what happens during the birth- if we want to hold the baby right away, if we're okay with them cleaning the baby up and doing their measurements and tests, if we aren't ready to hold the baby just yet, but want dad to hold the baby. She said it's whatever we want and we're allowed to change our minds (we are women, aren't we http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif).

I don't know what the story is with my boss. I am going to call HR again myself and see what forms my doctor needs to fill out. I have to get this moving. My boss' wife had 2 kids! Of course, he makes a ton of money and she stays home, so maternity leave was not an issue for them.

You'll enjoy the breastfeeding class. I really am glad that I went. Now I want to take all the other classes. I feel a little less lost now. It was also nice to be in a room with all those other pregnant women. I feel so alone on the train and at work, like I'm the only one. Well, back to work. I can't wait until this day is over, though my weekend is packed with things to do already. I need a break!

[kwormann]

What an interesting class....sounds like fun! DId they talk about depression and breastfeeding? My friends SIL just had a baby and was very badly post pardum (sp) because she was having trouble breast feeding, and as soon as she gave up and decided to do the bottle, her depression went away. I found that interesting!

kim

[GayeC]

Just thought I'd jump in here and say that breastfeeding is great and very worthwhile, but do not get discouraged if your baby doesn't "get it" right away. If you have any trouble at all, ask for help from every knowledgeable person you can find (post-partum nurse, lactation specialist, experienced friends, or whoever). My first child (now age 12) really did not "get it" for quite a while -- a home health nurse that our hospital sent to visit new mothers was the one who really helped me. Also, do not plan on a 4-6 hour feeding schedule -- breast-fed babies just eat more often than that. You will not be "spoiling" them even if you sometimes have to feed them every 2 hours (esp. when they are tiny).

Also, ignore people who are not supportive of your breastfeeding. Do not take it personally (hard when hormones are flowing) -- just consider them un-informed!

Good luck and I wish you both the very best.
Gaye

[MrsReber]

Kim, it's interesting that you say that about depression. The one woman sitting next to me was telling me that's why she had to stop. She has three other kids and this is nubmer 4. She has had alot of problems trying to breastfeed and depression was one of them. That worries me because I did suffer from depression a few years ago. I think it was more outside factors than chemical, but I know it's not fun!

Gaye, she did tell us that the babies will eat more. One guy asked about the baby sleeping through the night. He said that his daughter slept through the night right away. The woman said she would never believe that a breastfed baby would sleep through the night. She said they most likely wouldn't get their needed calories for the day if they did.

I really want to try it and be patient. I hear that's what it really takes. I won't give up until I have exhausted all my resources! The class really was good. It made me want to take all the classes they offer.

[SusanD]

Your class sounds so interesting! I've got mine on wednesday, I'm really looking forward to it. I know that I at least want to try - it's almost that I feel like I'd be "less" of a mom/woman if I didn't. Is that weird? I know my SIL had a lot of trouble with nursing, but she kept it up for 6 months just to make sure he got a good head start - now he's on formula, and still not sleeping through the night at 8 months. Another friend of mine didn't have any trouble at all and her baby was sleeping thru the night at about 2 weeks! She actually had to set the alarm every 4 hours to wake the baby up and feed her, until the pediatrician said it was OK to let her sleep. I guess you can't really predict how these things are going to go until you try.

Kim, I'll be interested to hear what they say about depression and nursing. I'm on quite the emotional roller coaster these days - seem to fly off the handle at the least little thing. I don't know whether to attribute it more to hormones or the fact that I'm tired and uncomfortable all the time, and just plain cranky.

Susan, has your dr. started having you do movement tests yet? Every day at around the same time I'm supposed to count her movements and time how long it takes to feel 10 movements. I do it around 7:15 pm because that's when I can sit down and relax in front of the t.v. Depending on what time I eat dinner, it takes anywhere from 4 to 25 minutes (with a little poking) to feel 10 movements.

So...any news on the shower? http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[MrsReber]

No news on the shower, of course. I am going to start buying some items. Our families are a disaster, but we will not be left without the things we need. What bothers me is that it's probably not going to be until the end of April (if they can even get it together for then!!) and I won't really be able to drive around and exchange items or have time to run to the store for the things we didn't get. It annoys me kind of that they're just trying to make it convenient for themselves and not really worrying about the parents in this situation! I mean, really, the baby could come early and then what? Yet they yell at me when I go out and buy things. Too bad, folks. I think Kyle has given up on them.

Anyway, I know what you mean about being irritated over things. I find that I am much more easily annoyed by things now. I just try to keep my mouth shut. I go home every night expecting my poor husband to do something that will annoy me, but bless his soul, he is always wonderful. Good thing.

I have been so hungry lately. I just want to snack all day. It's terrible. I have to go to the doctor Wednesday afternoon. They changed my appointment because the doctor I was supposed to see had surgery and will be out for five weeks. I have to leave here around 12:45 to make it there for a 3:15 appointment, but I have to go. They had nothing else open. I have some questions for the doctor about going out on disability and why this child won't stop moving!! I haven't heard of movement tests. I get beat up just about all day long. It stops for maybe 20 minutes at a time. Seems unusual to me, but I've never been through this before. I keep hoping the baby will get tired and stop for a while. We may be in big trouble!

[lindrusso]

Originally posted by SusanD:
Any experienced moms out there...please feel free to jump in at this point! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif How many of you have tried the "schedule" method for sleeping/feeding? Have any of you read these books? Please help!!!!

Just catching up on some of the baby talk around here (I'm afraid to try to catch up on the really long thread though!).

First - Mrs. Reber I was just cracking up at an old message that you posted in August of last year: On a side note, we are trying for kids now (I saw you are planning for next year). We will be married one year next month. I am so worried that it'll take forever to get pregnant.I can understand how excited you are about it. I can't wait either. It's going to change our lives and our schedules, but I am really excited about it! So much for your fears of it taking forever - maybe it took 1 month???

Anyway - as for breastfeeding and sleeping....

I tried to keep to a schedule as much as possible. However, it isn't always possible. When they're hungry, they're hungry! My first son wanted to feed every two hours around the clock!!! AND he would have very long sessions. I was told I was being used as a pacifier - but that's another story!. However, my first son was very small (5 lbs., 6 oz.), so he was probably trying to make up for it! My second son was bigger and fed less often.

In the beginning it's hard to do a schedule - some babies are even awake all night and sleep during the day. Eventually they straighten it out and sleep at night! You just have to keep trying, and eventually they will fall into some sort of schedule. My first son had no particular sleep schedule until about 5 months. It was like a switch was turned on! He's slept beautifully ever since!

I am a big fan of schedules. I tried to stick to one as much as possible - which is much easier with the first! I think it gives the baby a sense of security when they sort of know what's coming next. My kids are also very good about going to bed because we have always had the same routine - no fights about it - it's just what happens at 8:00 because it's always been that way.

I can't tell you how many parents say their kids don't go to bed until 10 or 11 - and then maybe take a big nap during the day!!!! Not only would I lose my mind without those hours after 8 p.m. where it can be "adult" time, but the kids can't be all that well-rested - thus they are probably more cranky, irritable and prone to tantrums!! And let's not even go into how many kids I know that won't even sleep in their own beds - even at 5 years old!!! Ack!

I have found that you can read until you're blue in the face and still you can find that none of it works for you. But don't worry - just because you do it differently than what "they" recommend doesn't mean you're doing it wrong! I haven't actually read any of the books you mentioned, though. Now, please realize that I'm not saying DON'T read up on it - "they" can have all sorts of helpful suggestions!

[MrsReber]

That is pretty funny, lindrusso. It didn't take long at all. My husband is proud of that! The woman at the class I took said that they tend to discourage the use of pacifiers and bottles for at least the first four weeks. I guess in the end, all babies are different, though, so it seems we should just keep trying until we're all happy. Oh, Susan, I forgot to mention before- one thing this woman stressed was that you are not less of a mother or a bad mother if you don't (or can't) breastfeed. She said that a couple of times, which I thought was great, especially since just about all of us were first time moms.

Thanks lindrusso! You always have some down to earth advice for us!

[SusanD]

And just as I predicted, my insides are getting pummeled now - I can actually see my shirt jumping around!

[MrsReber]

Susan, I can relate! I haven't gotten kicked in the ribs yet, but I do get kicked on my side alot. This causes some very sharp pains that take me by surprise. I can't believe how strong some of the movements are, though! I am afraid of this wild baby! I hope he's facing the right way. They told me that they can't really tell right now.

Can you see how busy I am today http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif? I just want to go home and relax. My boss finally says he'll meet with me tomorrow to discuss my leave. I was almost hoping he'd wait until after I saw my doctor on Wednesday. I wanted to ask the doctor about how long the typically put people out of work.

I started crocheting a blanket for the baby. I am determined to make a blanket since my mom is knitting two blankets right now and I needed a break from my cross stitch. I'm actually almost done with it. Just needs a few more rows and a border. I hope it looks okay. I learned how to crochet when I was about 6 or 7. My grandmas taught me. Kyle was skeptical at first. He only said "do you know what you're doing?".

Oh, the food I consume! I am, at the very least, trying to keep it to low fat, low salt cheese and crackers and fruit. I think the sugar really jolts the baby! Yes, I agree, eating makes me uncomfortable. It's a catch-22. I'm either starving from no food or uncomfortable because I ate food. I can suffer for a few more weeks, I suppose!

[kwormann]

SusanD....you keep calling the baby she....does that mean you know its a girl? WHat about you Susan? ANy names picked??? I already have them picked, and were not trying for few moe weeks (of course, like any girl< ive been picking names most of my life!)

Kim

[SusanD]

Thanks, Lindrusso! You are always full of sage advice! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif I want to try the schedule thing, but from what I've heard/read, it's not a good idea to be too strict for the first few weeks. And definitely NOT doing the family bed...it's bad enough that the dog sleeps with us!

Susan, that cracks me up that your baby is so active! Looks like you & Kyle may have your hands full in another couple of months! Mine goes in spurts. I'll get 2-3 hours of quiet, and then a half hour to an hour of strong movement. Right now she's calm, but she'll get going again shortly after I finish my lunch. Saturday morning I woke up about 6:00 - to use the restroom of course http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/rolleyes.gif - and she was wide awake and VERY active. I think she's figured out where my ribs are because I get nailed there quite frequently.

Hopefully you shower arrangements will be taken care of soon...I agree, you can't wait till the last minute. You can't plan a baby like you do a wedding, and the last thing you want is to be running around exchanging or buying stuff you need with a newborn!

I'm hungry all the time, too. Pretty much a bottomless pit. The problem is that I can't eat very much at a time because I get so uncomfortable if I'm too full. So then I'm hungry again in a few minutes. It never ends!

[This message has been edited by SusanD (edited 03-26-2001).]

[MrsReber]

Kim, picking names is the easy part. Getting your husband to agree to those names is the difficult part! We didn't want to know the sex so we have no idea. My husband says it's a girl, my brother and sister-in-law say it's a boy. My MIL says it's a boy, too. Boy is she mad that we won't find out what it is!!! She said she will somehow find out. I said "yes, you'll find out when we do- as soon as the child is born."

I like Sarah Nicole, Casey, Rachel, and Raven for a girl. All of these are also acceptable to dh. I always wanted to name a little girl Caterina- that's my Italian grandmother's name, though she called herself Catherine to not be so conspicuous. My grandma passes away last September, too. Only two weeks after we found out I was pregnant. We didn't break the news to the families until November, though. The only boy's name we have complete agreement on is Max. I like Colin, Corbin, Chase, and Spenser, too- those are still under debate. Dh made a list at work and we crossed off most of those names. I think we'll try to use Stanley as a middle name. That's my husband's father's name. His dad passes away when he was 12 or 13. But we're still in negotiations for a name. As my one friend says "women should name the babies since they have to carry them around for 9 months!!"

Susan, did you pack your bag yet? I am trying to get a list togeher of things to pack. My husband doesn't want to take any phone numbers to the hospital. He says we can call everyone after the baby is born. No sense in them crowding the hospital (and what a crowd it'd be with that crew!!) I am worried that they'll bombard us at visiting time.

[SusanD]

Kim, yep we're having a little girl (at least that's what the ultrasound told us)! Of course you always hear stories about the ultrasound that was wrong - but I feel pretty confident. First of all because I just had this constant feeling - even before I got pregnant - that my baby would be a girl. Plus I had friends who thought I was having a girl based on the fact that my skin broke out a lot and I was very moody. And then the technician sounded very certain, not like "well, it COULD be...". I was dying to find out from day one. Fortunately DH didn't have an opinion one way or another, and I think he's as excited as I am! After months of discussion we've decided on two names - Erin and Annika (both with the middle name Evelyn, which is my grandmother) - and have decided we'll wait to see what she looks like. That's great that you already have names picked out! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Susan, no I haven't packed my bag yet either. I really need to get on that! Jay keeps reminding me that I need to do that. Our baby class teacher recommended that we pack 2 bags - one for labor and one for afterwards. Not a bad idea. The names you have picked out are really pretty! I especially like Caterina. I always loved the name Haley for a girl - but since our last name is Dailey, that idea went out the window right off the bat. Bummer! Good luck talking to your boss today - I'm sure it will go fine. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[MrsReber]

Oh boy- the boss cancelled our meeting! He says tomorrow is better for him and tried to make it for 2:00, which is no good since I have to leave for my dr's appointment. So now it's 11:00 tomorrow. We'll see if it happens or not. Argh!!

That's funny that you had a feeling you were having a boy. I had 6 dreams about the baby- twice it was a girl and four times it was a boy! My SIL said that I'm having a boy because I am still pretty (her words, but I'll take the compliment with the way I feel about myself these days!). My skin has been clear as anything and so very soft.

I love the name Caterina. I may push for it as a middle name, depending on what we use for a first name. Also, if we have a girl. It's kind of exciting being surprised, though.

My brother came close to naming his daughter Erin and one of my friends named her little girl Erin. My brother decided on Emily Morgan. And she grew right into it. I think it's funny how kids kind of grow into their names like that.



[This message has been edited by MrsReber (edited 03-27-2001).]

[SusanD]

How was your dr. appointment? I have my breastfeeding class tonight, I'm looking forward to it.

I'll tell you right now, the biggest downfall to finding out the baby's sex is that I've gone WAY overboard buying clothes! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif Not to mention the clothes that have been bought for me. Just in case she does turn out to be a boy, though, the room is pretty unisex so we wouldn't need to do anything with that. I'd just be back giving Baby Gap more of my money!

I love the name Emily - unfortunately Jay decided it sounded goofy with our last name. Then I also liked Emma, but Jay didn't. We both liked Olivia, but our neighbors have an Olivia so we thought we'd sound like copycats. That's the problem with having kids so late - all the names are taken!

[MrsReber]

I hear ya! I love the name Rebecca, but my SIL's daughter is Rebekkah. I love Emma, too, but we can't have an Emma and and Emily. Oh, and my mother loves Olivia, as well as my husband. I had to say no to that. You saw the picture of my husband- 6'5" and rather thin? I could only see us having a 6 ft daughter named Olivia and everyone calling her Olive Oyl.

My dr's appointment is today. Did I say yesterday? We are also getting our new carpet today and hubby is going to pick up the baby's furniture on April 6th. I told him I planned it for that Friday since he was going turkey hunting either the following weekend or the weekend after that. He now says "I can't go hunting. I'll never have a good time because I'll be worried about you". I thought that was very sweet. I told him I won't tell him not to go and he should if he really wants to. We have friends and family around who would help me out- most of them have offered. But he is talking himself out of it now.

The carpet guys should be at our house right now!!! By the time I get home, we'll have new carpet!!

I just heard another story about a couple who had all the tests done and the doctor said they were having a boy (boy number 4!). The baby came out and the doctors were silent. The woman was scared and thought something was wrong. They said "everything is fine with the baby, it's just the wrong kind!" and they indeed had a girl. This was our director's neighbor!

[Kristilyn1]

I had to laugh Mrs. Reber about your husband going turkey hunting. My husband went on a business trip for 4 days about two weeks before my due date and he says he kept jerking awake ALL NIGHT because he "thought" the phone was ringing!

On a serious note--not to intrude my opinion on here--but name your baby whatever YOU want--especially if it's neighbors or friends who have children with the same names. Ten years from now, when you don't even know the people who's child had the same name, you will wonder why you cared. Just my .02....

Kristi

[SusanD]

How funny...guess all husbands are alike that way! Jay was supposed to go up to Mpls. for the final four this weekend, but decided that he'd be too nervous. I felt bad because he was taking a bunch of friends and they were all going to stay at my parents' place, but he said they all understood. Fortunately they didn't have tickets to the games, otherwise I would have insisted that he go!

Good luck w/your carpeting...how exciting! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[kwormann]

I think ALL the names are beautiful. My 9 year old neice called last night to tell me the names she has picke out for her baby when she has one......I remember doing that it that age, too! It was so cute!

Kim

[MrsReber]

Kristi, I totally agree. My mom makes faces at some of the names I we tell her. I told her on Christmas "know what? I don't really care what you think because this is OUR child, not yours". By the way, she hated the name Emily when my brother told her that's what they were naming his daughter. Now she loves it. She also hated Mary (my sister's daughter) but now she loves it. Mary is a very big family name in my family and my brother-in-law's family.

My husband doesn't want me to do anything anymore. I should enjoy this while it lasts. I am a bit worried. Yesterday his sister told me that she's going to want to come by A LOT after the baby is born. I will not be happy if there's a constant stream of people through the house while I am on maternity leave. I expect some visitors, but I need quiet time, too. His family keeps asking me how much weight I've gained!. I feel like saying "none of your $#&@^!# business!". Like I'm not self-conscious enough? I was telling my mother this morning that I really can't believe the truly stupid things people say to pregnant women. Not to sound like I'm being partial, but my family is very good about not saying the wrong thing. I think some members of my husband's family speak without thinking.

Susan, I was going to ask you if Jay was still going away. They are so funny! It's only because we are so much bigger now. I feel like a weeble most days. My little dog spends her days in a cage in the basement (we're not cruel, she just can't stay out of trouble). Each morning I walk her down there. He keeps telling me that he'll do it for me and I shouldn't worry about it.

The new carpet is great! Smells like a new house! And it's all so CLEAN!!!

[SusanD]

Thanks, Kim! By the way, what ARE the names you have picked out? http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

Susan, Jay's starting to do that now too. I think you're right, it's because we're so big that we suddenly look helpless or something. He keeps telling me that he'll get up and walk Bucky in the mornings so I don't have to - but that's when I'm feeling my best so I really want the exercise! The only thing that I can't get him to do is clean the bathrooms, I'm seriously considering having a cleaning lady come over just to do those. Or rather I should say that his idea of cleaning the bathrooms is a little different than mine...he goes in there with a bottle of windex and a roll of paper towels and thinks that's all there is to it.

Oh, did I tell you Jay got another job? Phew...what a relief. After four interviews with this place he accepted the job yesterday, and is tentatively starting on May 14 (depending on when the baby comes).

I had my breastfeeding class last night, it was very interesting! I was a little nervous walking out of there, though, I honestly don't know how I'm going to remember it all. One thing, I had no idea that my nipples were going to get so huge! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/eek.gif

I would be very unhappy if people kept asking about my weight. I agree...none of their business! Fortunately neither of us come from huge families - mine is bigger than his and none of them are closer than 5 hours except my grandma who doesn't drive. Jay's mom is pretty laid back and has said she'll only come by and help when we need/ask her to. I said I'd be needing her 24/7! My mom's a little more high strung but my dad will tell her to settle down. And my parents are pretty low maintenance - they'll be staying with us but they'll go do their own thing for the day if we need quiet time.

Enjoy your new carpeting! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[MrsReber]

Susan, I will send Kyle right over to clean your bathroom! That's the one thing I always hated doing. I will clean anything else, but I normally won't go near the bathtub. He's been cleaning it since we started living together. And I mean really cleaning it- scrubbing the tiles, cleaning the floor! We were at his brother's house and he said something about it - turns out that his brother also has to clean the bathroom for his wife! Maybe it's hereditary? Enjoy the pampering while it lasts!

You're lucky to not have huge family nearby. I won't mind having my mom come over, but she does work. My SIL lives on a farm and tends to the horses there so she's pretty flexible. I don't mind them coming by, I just really want notice.

Glad you found the breastfeeding class interesting. I liked going because it made it seem like the baby would be here sooner. I know what you mean- lots to remember! At least these days they offer support. Not like thirty years ago. My mom gave up breastfeeding because she had no help or support. Unfortunately (or fortunately??) I've been rather large chested my whole life. Yes, they still get bigger! Playtex makes a great nursing bra. I was skeptical at first - it has no underwire- but it fits better than the other two I bought and is certainly more comfortable. Walmart has them! Never thought to look there- a girl in the breastfeeding class told me. Walmart also sells another brand for about $8 a bra! They didn't have the right size for me, though. Here I go, rambling on again. I have work to do!!!

[mb]

Hello!

I just came over here from the Good Food board to see what all you other new-moms-to-be had to say. All I can say is that I'm glad to read that I'm not alone! I don't have any pregnant friends at the moment, so it's nice to hear that you all are experiencing the same things that I am! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

MrsReber, just wanted to find out if you met with your boss about maternity leave. I work at a small non-profit agency (that happens to be closing in January...) and I am not eligible for the traditional maternity leave. I was very concerned about this. Luckily, my boss approached me about working from home - it works great for both of us since she won't have to worry about hiring a new person for only 6 months and I can keep my income & great benefits! I don't know what I'll do after the agency closes though...maybe I'll just want to stay home all the time...

We are starting childbirth classes in 2 weeks. Everything is starting to feel more real. Our baby is expected mid-June, but we are trying to get her room ready now (and yes, from the ultrasound, we THINK it's a girl...). The furniture is coming tomorrow, but we still need to find a crib that will match. There are so many choices!!!!

I also feel extremely huge. I have gained over 31 lbs so far, and I'm only in week 29. Yikes! My doctor says everything is on target though. It just seems like a lot of weight. But I was very small to begin with, so that's what she expected. I think it's all in my stomach, so I guess that's good. I feel like a "weeble" too. But I guess I'm only going to get bigger - 11 weeks to go!

Sorry this post is so long! I'm just so excited that I can finally vent somewhere, and everyone will know what I'm talking about! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Marisa

[kwormann]

Marisa...congrats on your upcoming excitement!

Susan...I am so happy your hubby found a job! Im sure thats a HUGE load off your mind! As for names, I like Alexandra, but my cousin named his little girl that. I like Hannah, but dont think Im leaning that way. I also like Claire, Chloe, Zoe and Madison. Im leaning right now toward Madison Claire, but since Im still waiting "for the rabbit to die" (isnt that the expression???), we'll see. Is it telling that Ive only picked out girls names????

kim

[MrsReber]

mb, welcome! Please join in our chats here! We don't want to exclude anyone. I know what you mean about being the only pregnant one. I don't know anyone else who is pregnant right now either. That's great that you can work from home- even better if you can stay at home with your baby. I wish I could http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/frown.gif.

Susan, I completely forgot to mention your husband's new job. I'm sorry. I find myself being inadvertently rude these days- anyway, I'm so glad he found a job. Now you can rest easy and enjoy (ha ha) these last few weeks. But you didn't think it'd take him long to find something anyway.

Well, I have to go make dinner. I actually came here to look up a different way to make my artichokes. Hubby just told me he can't possibly go to VA with as big as I look. I think the baby moved into a new position because I do feel HUGE today! mb, you're not alone. I gained about the same amount of weight by week 29. The doctors are telling me it's too much, though. I am trying not to listen to them- the female doctors say it's fine and the male doctors tell me to stop eating dessert. Uh, I don't really eat THAT much dessert. I am usually stuffed from just a little bit of dinner. Don't the realize they are dealing with hormone woman??? The last thing I want to hear right now is that I need to lose weight!

Well, on that note, time to consume more calories! I'm starved.

[erinl]

I love all of the names! I only have girl's names in mind, too. Hannah Rose and Katherine Lilly. My husband doesn't know about this yet! Also, I can't worry about duplicating names in the family. Paul has 25 cousins, most are older and have a head start on the family.

[KristaMB]

I'm glad to hear that the "Pregnant Susans" are doing well. I was just catching up on your posts to check and see how you are doing. The posts are helping me to anticipate the upcoming months. (I'm due in August...)

We haven't started a single thing on the baby's room. First we have to figure out what to do with all the "office" furniture that is in there. Yikes! My parents are coming in a few weeks and my mom is talking about going baby furniture shopping. I know the room won't be cleared out by then, but, since she's buying I definitely can't turn her down. This is the first granchild for both of our parents, so everybody is really excited.

My husband really wants to find out if we are having a boy or a girl, but it's not as important to me. My mom doesn't want to know what we're having. My folks live 9 hours away, so maybe it can be done, but I don't know if I'm up to the challenge of keeping a secret that major! We'll see...

Sorry to be rambling, I'm just getting excited!

~Krista

[SandyM]

I'm not a mom, but I just wanted to say how much I enjoy lurking in this post.

I wish you all the best! Looking forward to more......

[MrsReber]

Thanks, Sandy! You are certainly welcome to lurk- or chime in if you have any advice or info for us first time moms!

[SusanD]

Wow! So much activity since I was here last...

Marisa and Krista...congratulations!!! It's so fun to hear your excitement, especially now that I'm approaching the "get this kid out of me" stage. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif Marisa, that's wonderful that you'll be able to work from home. Like Susan, I'd love to be able to be at home, but unless we win the lottery the best I'll be able to do is part time. Good luck with your childbirth classes, we really enjoyed ours! Both of you...have fun shopping for furniture, and everything else you need. It's a little overwhelming at first but a lot of fun once you figure out what you need and/or want. The Babies R Us website has a good list of stuff that you need. Of course it's a little exaggerated, so I had a friend look through it and tell me what I REALLY needed and what I didn't. Another good resource is the "Baby Bargains" book, I highly recommend it!

Other than you all, I don't have any other friends who are pregnant right now (except a couple of co-workers), but I do have two good friends & SIL who recently had babies so they've been such a huge help! Last dr. appointment (2 weeks ago) I had gained 29 pounds. Tomorrow will be 36 weeks for me - on Monday I have another appointment and will be going every week from now on. We'll see how much I've gained, I can't seem to keep this sweet tooth under control! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Kim & Susan, thanks for the congrats on Jay's job! Yes, I'm very relieved! Plus, it's even for a little bit more $$ which is great. Kim, I love the name Alexandra! We had thought about Madison too, and calling her Maddy, but we didn't like the sound of Maddy Dailey. I think you're like me - I was 100% "girl" from the start. Jay was the one who kept saying "You know, we've got a 50-50 chance at a boy, too!"

Susan, how did you end up making your artichokes last night? I love artichokes, they're my favorite pizza topping. Unfortunately Jay doesn't care for them. Oh well, more for me! We had chicken on the grill with risotto and I forced myself to eat some broccoli (yuck). So how did your meeting with your boss go? Did you get everything figured out?

Whoops! Didn't realize how long I'd been typing...better get to work! Have a good day, all! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[MrsReber]

Krista, don't worry about rambling. I always ramble on and on. I think the hormones have something to do with it. I feel so scatterbrained recently, but I hear that happens!

Susan, my last day here will be May 11th. Then, depending on the circumstances, I may work from home for the week of May 14th. Then I will come back to work the week of August 6th- and that'll be a four day week to start with.

I can't wait to get our furniture on the 6th! I have to pay it off this weekend so we can pick it up next week. If I don't pay it off, they want a certified check at delivery for the balance. Weird. I got some great coupons from Babies R Us in the mail. $25 off a glider and ottoman, $8 off any car seat, $5 off any swing. But I am not supposed to buy that stuff. Latest word is that a date has been set for a shower. Now, I'm pretty sure I can figure out which day it'll be. I'd love to be surprised, but that'll never happen. My guess is April 21st or 28th- most likely the 28th.

I have that sweet tooth problem, too. I am trying to eat fruit instead. I don't eat bad stuff during the day, it's when I go home that I'm bad because I'm so hungry by the time I'm able to start dinner! As for the artichokes- I didn't make them. They'll last a bit. Instead, I threw together a bunch of veggies, sauteed them in olive oil and garlic and tossed them with some pasta. I apparently went overboard last week at the market and bought a ton of veggies and fruit and then forgot what I bought. I have to find a way to use my asparagus, corn on the cob, bok choy, and artichokes before they go bad! They don't seem to all go together too well. We have a great bakery/farm market type store and everything there is soooo good. Oh, we love broccoli. I have no idea what we're having tonight. It's rainy so I am thinking cream of asparagus soup.

[mb]

Krista, I know what you mean about having to sort out your rooms before the baby. We bought a 3 bedroom house last june, and the other 2 bedrooms have just been a mess (half office/half storage, etc.) before we can do the baby's room, we have to finish our office & figure out what to do with half the stuff that's in baby's room now! it's kinda hectic, but nice to know the house will be 'done' after all this. our office furniture & baby's dressers are coming tomorrow, so we are pretty psyched.

also, i think you should find out if it's going to be a boy or girl. if your husband wants to know, and you're indifferent, then why not?!? if your mom doesn't want to know, then too bad i say. it's not her baby. i know that sounds mean, but i've been going through a whole thing with my parents and my 'independence'. i'm an only child, and this is their first grandbaby, so it's tough on them. i've learned to get a little tougher in order to 'train' them. it sounds mean, i know. but i just need to clearly establish in their minds that this is OUR baby, not theirs, and what my husband and i say is what goes. if you don't set boundaries now, things could get out of control after baby arrives! it's probably different for you because your mom lives 9 hours away. my parents live less than 1 mile away, so it's a little trickier! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/rolleyes.gif

MrsReber, it sounds like things have been frustrating with your baby shower! i didn't read about the whole thing - i just caught what's on this post. yikes! once we told our families about the baby, relatives claimed stake on what they wanted to get us (i.e. parents want to get crib, grandma wants to get stroller, etc.)

we told my parents (who TRY to be VERY involved in our lives... http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/rolleyes.gif ) that we didn't want a baby shower because of this, and because all of OUR friends live out of state (and my husband's family too). i have a feeling they might still be planning something, which we're NOT happy about... it would just be all my mom's friends sitting around watching us open gifts. weird. it's not that we don't want people to get us stuff, we just don't really want to ASK them to bring gifts. i think it's different though when it's your own friends.

what kind of furniture did you pick out? we decided just to get a regular double dresser and tall chest so that the baby can use it when she gets older too. we bought this really cool changing pad that will attach onto the double dresser to make it a changing table. but since we didn't buy the furniture at babies r us, it is hard to find a crib there that will match.

SusanD, I'd be curious to know what items on that BabiesRUs checklist really aren't needed. That's the checklist I've been using, but I've already crossed a lot of stuff off of it because I thought it was dumb.

Sorry it's been tough finding a first name to go with your last name. We haven't had too much of a problem, except... at first we really liked the name Austin for a boy. Then we put it together with our last name (Bower), and it just sounded a little bit too much like that british superspy in the movies, Austin Powers. Just imagining our little one saying "shagarific, baby" was enough to cross that name off the list!

Right now for a girl, we chose Amanda (but still working on the middle name - right now either Rachel, Whitney, or Megan). For a boy (just in case), I think it's between Andrew and Aidan (no middle name yet).

And the sweet-tooth thing - well, i've got it too. I eat a lot of fruit though, and some ice cream at night (hey, the baby needs calcium, right?!?) i try to steer clear of chocolate, but it's hard, so sometimes i just have one of those bite-size snack pieces. and yes, i CAN eat just one!!!

Well, this is long enough. I guess we all like to ramble http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Marisa

[MrsReber]

We all ramble cause we're excited about these babies!

mb, I bought a pali crib and dresser with a changing attachment. It comes off when we're done with it. My mom bought the crib. She said she always wanted to buy a crib for one of her children and she didn't get the chance with my brother and sister. Hey, who am I to argue? The dresser is really nice and we can buy other peices to match later.

You sound like me with the ice cream! I have an ice cream maker and the taste is so fresh and good. Calcium, that's right! Need calcium!

We liked the name Austin, too, but we're having the same problem with the Austin Powers thing! Amanda is very pretty for a girl.

I have to get out of here and go home! Have a great weekend everyone!



[This message has been edited by MrsReber (edited 03-30-2001).]

[Kristilyn1]

Andrew ROCKS.

My oldest is Drew, short for Andrew. My brother is an Andrew as well--I love his middle name with it:

Andrew David.

So cool. Have fun with the choosing.....

Kristi

[SusanD]

Ahhhh...yes. CALCIUM! That's what I keep telling myself. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif I've gotten completely hooked on Edy's frozen yogurt. I'm a big fruit fanatic, too. Drinking juice by the gallon (unsweetened...Juicy Juice is the best). One of my favorite treats (next to the frozen yogurt) is a strawberry, orange and banana smoothie. Can't get enough of those!

We were lucky, didn't have to buy too much furniture. My parents gave us the dressers that my brother and sister had used as babies as well as the antique rocking chair that my mom rocked me in. My in-laws bought the crib, so I decided to splurge on a changing table. My parents bought the car seat, in-laws are buying the stroller, and grandma bought the Pack & Play - so really all we've had to buy is the little stuff.

Susan, that's great that you're going to have some time off beforehand. Hey, if your shower ends up being on the 28th think of me, either having the baby or jumping up and down like a fool trying to start labor! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Marisa, you've got the exact opposite problem I have. My brother (the youngest)is still in college, so right now they're on this big "it's OUR time" kick. They're the first of their friends to become grandparents so they keep saying how they're too young. It's only within the last couple of months that they've really warmed up to the idea of the baby. Well I suppose the grass isn't necessarily greener on the other side of the fence...good luck in dealing with it! Bottom line is, she's your child, and they can like it or leave it. I told my parents...in my house you'll play by my rules.

As for the useless items on the baby list...I don't have it with me, but off the top of my head the first things that come to mind are the wipe warmer and diaper stacker. Also, they tell you that you need 4-6 sheets for the crib, but everyone's told me that 2-3 is sufficient because you use a sheet protector anyway. I'll have to consult my list at home and get back to you!

And, what...you don't like the idea of a little Austin Powers running around? "Groovy, Baby!" http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

Everyone have a good weekend!

[mb]

MrsReber, I saw on the other board that you posted some yummy recipes for the ice cream maker. We are thinking of getting one, but I'm afraid it would turn out to be one of those things you use a few times and then it just takes up precious cabinet space... I'm waiting until summer (more ice cream-y weather), but I guess that's kinda dumb because we live in FL and it's always ice cream weather (today it was in the upper 80s!).

I saw some pali furniture on the internet, and it looks really nice. I think it's smart to get pieces that baby can use as they get older too.

also, it's great that you'll get some time off before your due date. i'm due june 17, but i'll start working from home june 1, mostly because i'm afraid of my water breaking at work or something like that!

SusanD, you are so well behaved - frozen yogurt, fruit smoothies! wow! i'm impressed. when i said ice cream, i meant the breyer's ice cream shoppe chocolate cookie sandwich ice cream! oops! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

and wow - i don't think my parents ever had (or ever will have) an 'it's our time' thing... in a way, though, that's ok. there's never a perfect situation!

Also, thanks for your input on that list of don't-really-needs. I agree on the wipe warmer. However, my SIL has one and thinks it's great. That was enough to influence my DH to add that on to our registry! Honestly, I think it's a waste.

One note of caution is that I've heard from many people that the Diaper Genie really stinks (not literally?? http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif) Most people I know end up not even using it. I did a lot of research and chose one called the Diaper Champ. It's about $5 more, but you don't need special garbage bag refill things for it, so it saves you money in the long run. Most importantly, it seemed to work better in terms of ease of disposal & avoiding diaper smell in the room.

I do have one bit of advice on strollers though... First, we chose a travel system solely based on the pattern. Then I tried to pick it up (after we practiced collapsing it) and it was SOOOOO heavy - literally 30 lbs!!! So then we decided to forget about looks and go for functionality. Right now we've decided on a Graco Ultra Light model, where the stroller only weighs about 10 lbs, and I can lift it with just one hand. Combi also makes a very lightweight model that you can use with a car seat/carrier; we're going to check that out this weekend.

Kristi, thanks for the vote of confidence with Andrew!

Have a great weekend everyone! Don't have any babies until we get back!

Marisa http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[MrsReber]

Good Morning everyone- especially all my fellow pregnant women. Whew,these last few weeks are getting difficult! It is tough to get out of bed. I don't mean that I'm too tired, I mean as in logistics. It was so cute last night. Kyle was talking to the baby and I swear the kid was reacting to his voice! He says he feels the baby more at night while I'm sleeping. Glad I can sleep through it.

A word of advice about the ice cream maker- if you saw how easy it was to make ice cream and how good it tasted, you would not hesitate. I was worried that I wouldn't use it often, but I use it a few times a month. I want to experiment with lower fat mild and fat free half and half (if I can find it!!). Susan, you're so good for sticking to the yogurt. I wish I could.

Marisa, that's interesting about the diaper genie. Uh oh, the diaper stacker is on the list of items that aren't necessary? I put one on my registry since it matches the pattern in the baby's room. I hear the Pali furniture is pretty good. I think we got a good deal on the price, too. All the cribs were discounted at the store because the guy keeps them all in stock and doesn't have to order them. Then I got $50 off on the dresser because I bought the crib there. We should be able to pick it up next weekend!!

Susan, I will be thinking about you all through April! You're my guide! I finally realized what you meant about the Braxton Hicks contractions. I kept thinking it was some weird baby movement, but now I see that it's not. I have been having that for a while. It makes me really uncomfortable and then goes away, but it doesn't hurt any. I just want to know how we're supposed to know when we're in labor? I'm scared about that!

Kristi- my grandfather and my uncle are both Andrews!

Time to start the day.

[SusanD]

Good morning! How was everyone's weekend? I'm pleased to report that the nursery is just about finished! Whoopee!!! All I have left is to wash everything (clothes, blankets, toys, etc.) and put them away. One thing, I'm a little nervous about washing ALL of the clothes, just in case she does turn out to be a boy. I'm pretty confident, but still...wouldn't that be an oops! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/eek.gif Not that I kept any of the receipts, but I feel like I'd be jinxing myself if I washed it all. Is that weird?

Marisa, glad to know I'm not the only one who's afraid of their water breaking at work. Yikes! That, and pooping in the delivery room, are my two biggest fears about this whole process (isn't it funny, with everything that's going to be happening, my biggest concern is my dignity???). I read somewhere that if your water breaks while you're standing or sitting, that the baby's head will act like a cork and stop it up, but if it happens in the night while you're sleeping it can wreck your mattress! We just bought a really nice king sized bed in December, and the fear of that is enough to make me go out and buy a waterproof mattress pad.

Interesting on the Diaper Genie - I got one as a shower gift, I'll have to see if it's worth it! Also, the Graco stroller - can you fit a Graco car seat in it? That's what we bought this weekend, the Graco Snug Ride. I was all set to get a Combi Ultra Savvy stroller, the woman at the store said that it will hold any of the major brands of car seats. However, when DH was reading the owner's manual for the car seat, it said to only use it with a Graco stroller - so now he doesn't want to get the Combi stroller. I'm curious if that's just a marketing tactic on the part of Graco...what did you find out about the strollers?

Susan, isn't it funny how the most mundane everyday things have suddenly become a major challenge? Getting out of bed is very tough! Yesterday Jay was out in the front yard playing catch with some of the neighborhood kids and I made the mistake of sitting down on the front steps to watch them. I was fine till I tried to get up - then much to the amusement of all the little boys Jay had to come help me!

Oh, and the diaper stacker - I've just heard that it's one of those things that's cute & fun to have, but don't spend your own money on it because it's not a necessity.

Aren't the Braxton Hicks a strange feeling? Not really painful, but just bizarre. Although I read that as the time gets closer, they'll get more intense and painful. Not looking forward to that! The labor thing kind of freaks me out too. I asked someone at work about that and she said..."Oh believe me, you'll know!"

Oh, and before you all go thinking I'm the queen of willpower...I need the frozen yogurt & fruit smoothies to compensate for all the cookies & candy I've been eating! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

Have a good day everyone!

[This message has been edited by SusanD (edited 04-02-2001).]

[MrsReber]

Susan, the pooping thing is one of my fears too!! I guess we're all afraid of it. I did read somewhere that mother nature sort of takes care of that in the early stages of labor. I sure hope so! There are things I will not do in front of my own husband, never mind in front of an entire medical staff!

I don't know how you still walk the dog. I took my dog (Lindsey) for a walk yesterday morning. Poor thing. I was great for the first 10 minutes, then my legs started to hurt and I had to slow down so they wouldn't cramp up on me. The poor dog is trying to walk faster. I was determined to walk for a full half hour. I was only a couple of minutes shy. That's funny you needed Jay to help you up. You're much closer than I am, though. I'm sure my belly will grow a little more in the next few weeks. Ugh, once I get started on the chocolate, it's so hard to stop! We have no cookies in the house at least. Only (ha!) a cheesecake and some ice cream. Hopefully hubby will eat those soon.

Congrats on the baby's room! I can't wait until mine is done! It's so much fun to see it come together.

I registered for the Evenflo infant seat. It fits into the stroller that I want. I want a stroller with big wheels so I can walk around the trail on the reservoir in the summer- if I have the energy! Braxton Hicks are very very weird. It's quite uncomfortable and makes me want to sit down. But it wasn't until I thought about what you had written that I figured it out. I told Kyle it was a contraction and I think it made him a bit nervous. I had to explain that it wasn't an actual labor contraction, just a practice one!

[mb]

Hello ladies!

Yesterday, I reached the 30-week mark! Pretty freaky to think in about 10 weeks we'll have a baby! (pretty cool though, that she is due on Father's Day http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif) How many weeks are left for you all? I know SusanD is probably ready to give birth any day now! I'm wondering if I've had any Braxton-Hicks contractions yet - what are they like? I haven't noticed any unusual sensations...

I'm also VERY concerned about dignity while in labor - I am ULTRA-modest!!! everyone says I'm going to need to get over that. (uh oh, I only have 10 weeks left to accomplish that!) In a way, I'd like a C-section, because they put you out and you wake up later with a cute round-headed baby... However, there are more opportunities for complications, and no one should really want such major surgery anyhow. Plus, it is better for baby to be born in the 'usual' way... Oh well.

MrsReber, you will be so excited when you get your furniture next week - we got the baby's dressers this weekend and it was SOOOOO exciting! It's starting to feel more real. This week we're going to look for a crib.

SusanD, are you going to use a special detergent to wash the baby clothes? I saw some 'special' (?) detergent at babies r us (dreft?) and started wondering if regular detergent was bad for baby or their clothes. Any info on this? I'm with you though - what happens if we wash all the girly clothes and then it turns out to be a boy?!?! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/eek.gif my DH wants to do another ultrasound for 'fun' just to make sure it will really be a girl!!!!

Note about the Diaper Genie: at first glance, it seems like a great idea, and I don't really see how anything could go wrong... i've just heard lots of complaints and people telling me not to get it because it is a waste of $ - it doesn't keep odor in, the twist&lock thing doesn't always work, you have to buy expensive refills, etc. However, I know how smelly diapers can get, so I was bound and determined to find a diaper pail with good reviews. But I'm sure there are plenty of people who have liked the diaper genie, or else they wouldn't still be selling it, right?

SusanD, you're right - the Combi Ultra Savvy accepts any car seat. Graco probably just doesn't want you to buy a different brand stroller! We chose the Graco Metro Lite stroller (the French Bear pattern has a matching car seat/carrier that fits in). I think the matching car seat is the Graco SnugRide, too. There is another Metro Lite stroller pattern, but there isn't a matching car seat - the stroller does accept one, though.

Also, this weekend we looked at high chairs. Originally we chose a Graco model, but when we tried to maneuver it in the store, it was really hard to get it to move up and down, recline, etc. Now we are debating between Peg Perego and Chicco - very easy to use, clean, and store. I liked the Chicco better, but my DH thinks the name is funny http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/rolleyes.gif

So much of the stuff we originally chose is off our registry and has been replaced with other things that really work! Kinda freaky. I guess you can't really trust that everything in the store is going to work well and be useful. Oh well. I hope we won't regret our 'new & improved' choices! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Well, that's all for today...It's almost time to go home! Yipee! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif Dr's appointment tomorrow - I don't even WANT to know how much weight I've gained!!!

Marisa

p.s. MrsReber, when you use the ice cream maker, what kind of milk/cream do you use? We only buy skim milk - do you think that might work?

[SusanD]

I'm getting ready to head out for my last 2-week Dr. appointment (YIKES!). I can't believe it! Saturday was week 36, so she could pretty much come any day now. I just have this feeling that she'll be late, though.

Susan, in answer to your dog walking question...VERY SLOWLY! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif In fact, I think he prefers to walk with Jay because I'm constantly pulling back on his leash. I think it takes me about a half hour just to do one lap around the neighborhood! I've noticed in the past couple of days that my hips are starting to bother me, too. Ugh...I feel like I'm 80!

Marisa, I know my mom used to use Dreft when we were babies, but I've read that it's OK to use any of the detergents that don't have perfumes or dyes (the ones that come in a white bottle). That's what I used to wash her sheets and some receiving blankets, plus I didn't use any fabric softener. I think Dreft is one of those baby-gimick things, kind of like the fancy burp cloths for $10 each when all you need is an old blanket or cloth diaper.

Thanks for the tip on the strollers - I think we'll have to go take a look at them again. I'll have the salesperson explain to Jay that it's OK to use the Combi! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

And congrats on reaching the 30-week mark. Doesn't it feel great to know that you're 3/4 of the way there?

Well it's off to the doctor...have a good night, everyone! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[Kristilyn1]

About the water breaking standing up and the "cork" effect. Maybe that happens to some--but I can vouch not for all!

I gotta tell you--breaking water is the only way (at least the first time around) to know without a shadow of a doubt, no question about it--YOU ARE IN LABOR. It's so exciting to have something so unequivocal happen that I don't think you'd care where it was. You have to remember that it has no odor and for the most part, it's clear--so it's not like you'd make this huge mess that people would freak out about. I actually worked with a girl who's water broke at work--and everyone thought it was cool! They were so excited for her.

I have to laugh about the whole "pooping" thing--do we all have this fear or what? The first time around, my water broke and the doctor said I could come to the hospital right away--but I jumped in the shower, shaved my legs and went #2--then I woke up my husband to go to the hospital. Priorities......

Kristi

[SusanD]

Kristi, that sounds like something I'll be doing. I told my husband that I wanted to get a pedicure right before I'm due and he looked at me like I was nuts! I have a hair appointment the week before...want to look good for all those pictures! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

My Dr. made me feel a little better last night about my water breaking before labor, she said it only happens in about 10% of all births. I'm still nervous about it breaking in the middle of the night, I really don't want to wreck our mattress! I'll probably steal one of the baby's crib sheet protectors and sleep on that, just to be safe.

[MrsReber]

Susan, that's what I've been reading- that in most cases your water won't just break like that. I think I'd be scared if that happened. Won't the baby go into distress?

Marisa, I can't wait for the baby furniture. Then I can set up the room!!!! I'll probably never leave the baby's room after that. Oh, about the ice cream- I've been using the full fat milk and heavy cream. The book says you can use lighter versions, but it may alter the consistency. I haven't experimented yet. But then, the ice cream maker only makes a quart which lasts the two of us about a week so I don't worry about the calories too much since we don't eat it all at once.

Susan, did everyone at your shower know that you knew about it? I will figure out when mine is (if they get it together). I'm not a very good actress so I could never pretend I was surprised. I have a feeling it'll be the 28th, though.

Hubby was so wonderful last night. He cleaned up after dinner and pretty much waited on me for the rest of the night. He said it was the least he could do since he got me pregnant. He has been so absolutely wonderful these days.

I did buy some Dreft over the weekend. I had $1 off coupon! I have to see if I like it. I agree, I could probably just use A&H dye and perfume free.

Kyle told me that his sister said to make sure I have fresh breath at the hospital to help with my breathing! Now, I never would've thought of that. I'm thinking it'll be the middle of the night and we'll rush off to the hospital. But it doesn't always happen that way. A shower sounds like a nice idea, though. I'd shave my legs (and surrounding areas) if only I could see and reach! My husband offered to help, but I think I'll have to pass on that one!

[SandyM]

Pardon the intrusion - I'm not a mom here, but speaking on behalf of my two desperately gorgeous godchildren Joshua and Jenna, I highly recommend a Diaper Genie. Even a klutz like me can get the silly thing to work. No odors whatsoever, and it's so sanitary.

Everyone is different, but that's my own experience.

[saw]

Hi --

I am relatively new to the board and this is the first time I have posted on the Healthy Living BB (I spend most of my time on the Great Food BB). My husband and I just started trying to get pregnant last month so I have found your news and developments very interesting.

I wanted to comment on the worry about pooping in the delivery room. I have a number of friends who are pregnant or just had babies (I actually did a count the other day and know about 25 people who have had babies in the last year which is amazing to me!) and a couple of them have told me that they had an enima (sp?) during labor so that there would be nothing left to come out. I know this is not the nicest subject to talk about, but it is something I would think most people are worried about and I just wanted to offer that suggestion. My friends who had them were very happy with their labor and delivery experiences -- I don't know if there is a reason not to do it, but it might be worth asking your doctor about.

Good luck with the rest of your pregnancies!

[MrsReber]

saw, I have read about that practice, too, but I don't want it! I actually read that it may not be a necessary procedure since before you are in hard labor (while you can still walk around) it all somehow takes care of itself. No, it's not a nice topic, but I can see that we're all worried about it! (I have to sort of laugh at that) I can appreciate the suggestion, though. Good luck and I hope that you find yourself pregnant soon as well. I think SusanD, Marisa, Krista and I will certainly be ready to pass the torch!

[saw]

I can't blame you for not wanting it -- I don't know if I would either, but I thought I would throw it out there anyway. Thanks for the good wishes -- we are hoping it will happen soon for us -- it's such a wonderful thing and I can just sense the wonder and excitement you all have.

Sarah

[SueK]

Susan(s) - I don't think you'll have to worry about needing an enema. The night I went into labor, nature took care of that for me. I must have been in the bathroom 3 or 4 times before we even left the house to go to the hospital! That's one of the things I worried about when I was pregnant, too, so I'm glad things worked out for me! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[SusanD]

Thanks for the "crappy" advice, everyone! (pun intended http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif) I've heard about the enema, too, and I think in theory it would be a great idea but....EEEEWWWWWWW! Just thinking about it makes me squirm. Our birthing class instructor said that one way to help prevent that is to not eat anything heavy once you're in labor. Definitely eat because you'll need your strength, but stick to things like soup, jello, juice, etc.

Susan, trust me, once you have the baby's room set up you won't want to leave! I actually sat in the rocking chair and read last night. We're pretty close to finished with that so now I can start packing my bag which Jay is SO on my case to do. I think he's a little nervous that I'm going to go into labor early and he's going to have to pack it for me! Oh, and in answer to your question, yes, I think everyone at my shower knew that I knew about it. One of my friends who hosted it wanted to make it a surprise at first but then realized that it would be easier w/my input on date, guest list, etc.

Sarah...good luck to you! Keep in touch & let us know what happens!

[mb]

Hello all,

as you may have noticed, i haven't posted in a few days now. aside from being super-busy at work, i just couldn't bring myself to really write about enemas and that whole 'issue'! i think i'll just eat jello and soup in the weeks leading up to the big day!?! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/rolleyes.gif

i had a dr appointment Tuesday and it went well. have you all experienced lower blood pressure over the 9 months? my dr said that is normal. mine was 94/50 this time...i'm just wondering how low it's going to go! and how am i even still walking around without passing out all the time? also, we will probably have 1 more ultrasound just to make sure baby is the right size - i've gained 32 lbs so far (without eating like a pig, well, except a little with the ice cream http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif), and my glucose test was ok. my DH is happy about the 2nd u/s...at the first one, they told us it's 'probably' a girl. now that we've bought a lot of girly stuff, we're starting to panic that it might be a boy! maybe you had the right idea, MrsReber! how many ultrasounds have you all had?

I checked at the grocery store in the detergent aisle and there are tons of detergents that are perfume & dye free, so we'll probably just use that. Thanks for the input, SusanD. I didn't know about that stuff! Also, I'm glad to hear that SandyM had something good to say about the diaper genie. I figured it had to work for someone, or else they wouldn't keep selling it!

MrsReber, keep us updated with your baby shower stuff. I'm glad everyone got it together! Do you feel bad that you know about it - i mean, that it won't really be a huge surprise? I think i'd rather know about it in advance. i don't really like surprises (so as you can see, i'm going to have an issue with labor, etc. - it's a surprise about when it's going to start!)

good luck to you, Sarah! hopefully, we'll be hearing that you're expecting sometime in the beginning of 2002!

Marisa

p.s. MrsReber - which kind of ice cream maker do you have? i'm guessing that you're happy with it. we were looking at the krups vs. the cuisinart...

[MrsReber]

First off- for Marisa- my mom bought me the cuisinart ice cream maker. There's alot of discussion about it on the BB and everyone liked the cuisinart best. I'm very happy with it.

The baby shower- I still don't know the exact date, but I could narrow it down to 2 weekends. They woulnd't dare have it in may after I've started my 9th month. My feeling is that it'll be the 28th, but I suppose it could be the 21st as well. We're just worried about what happens if we have to bring stuff back!

I hate the enema topic, too! I don't want one!!! I actually read that it's not the best practice, either. But then who knows what to believe with all the information out there.

Ahh! They called today and our baby furniture is ready for pickup! Hubby is looking for a good glider chair for me, too- what a guy!

Gotta run! I am starving!

[karen w]

I just thought I'd share my experience on the poop issue. I have had 3 kids, and really never gave this any thought at the time. My husband did tell me with the first I did poop a little. I could not feel it with all the pressure from the baby coming out, and I could not see it either even though I had mirrors set up so I could see the delivery! So chances are if you do poop, you won't even know it.

Now speaking from the professional side(I'm a M.D.) Having been on the other side many a times watching baby come out, I have seen many mothers poop. It is extremely common. And although it is easy for me to say don't be embarrassed, I can only reassure you that the medical personel don't even think twice about it since it is not unusual. And enemas are not standard practice anymore.

Just try to enjoy the big day. It really is a special miracle.

Good luck on all the upcoming deleveries!!!

Karen W.

[MrsReber]

Thanks Karen! I would imagine with all that pushing- well, you know- a little weird about it.

We went out to JC Penny last night and hubby bought me a big cushy glider/recliner. We figured it was more practical since we can move it into the livingroom later. It'll even match the new couch we're getting! He actually picked it out, but wanted to bring me to see it. He's been such a sweetie lately. All this new furniture in the house! We're both youngest children in our families so we have alot of hand me down furniture. It's so nice to finally have our own new things.

I feel so huge lately- almost like I can feel my stomach stretching out. And my stomach hasn't been right. I was home yesterday because I couldn't drive to the train with the pains I had in the morning. Well, everyone at work was so concerned. My boss even called me back and told me not to come in today (I came in anyway since I feel better and it's Friday). I wasn't going to call the doctor but they all insisted. The doctor said it's probably just a stomach virus. So today everyone is coming to see me to make sure I'm okay. It's kind of funny.

My SIL and her boyfriend rent this house in NC each year at the end of August. They are really pushing for us to go (a 12 hour drive under normal conditions). They say "the baby will just sleep". I am thinking the baby will want to eat and need to be changed, too. I am kind of against going. We prefer to just take a trip much closer to home. The women in his family insist that it won't be a problem for us to drive all that way with a 3 month old baby. Has anyone tried this? I think it'd be crazy. I'm afraid to attempt such a major trip. They are annoying me because they all talk to us like we are going even when we've told them 2 or 3 times that we'd rather not since we have a major life adjustment going on.

Well, it's Friday everyone! I know what I'll be doing this weekend- sleeping!

[SusanD]

Good morning everyone and happy friday! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif
Well 3 weeks from tomorrow is baby day...I can't believe how fast it's gone! Fortunately I think we're pretty close to ready. I was thinking this morning...a month from now I'm going to be a mom! Yikes!!!!

Marisa, my blood pressure is on the normal to low side, too. But it always has been so that's no surprise. Every time I get it taken the nurse comments on how great that is, but I find myself getting lightheaded and having to sit down a lot. I suppose it's better than the alternative, preeclampsia.

Susan, hope you're feeling better today! That's so exciting that your furniture is ready, and that you're getting a glider...now you'll be all set! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif The antique rocker that we put in the baby's room cracked when Jay leaned back on it. My dad can fix it, but that's not till they come after the baby's born (of course I won't need the chair much before then). We also have a really nice leather rocker in our room but we're going to have to move it to make room for the bassinet. Jay wants to put it in the living room, but we have a lot of windows on our first floor and I told him that if I'm going to use it for nursing I don't want to put on a show for the neighbors.

I agree, I wouldn't want to take a baby on a 12-hour car trip. That would just be too much! I wouldn't even want to take myself on a 12-hour car trip...ugh! That really sucks about Kyle's job, but at least he can pick up some extra $$ doing landscaping. I'm sure it will work out fine, but how frustrating to have that up in the air. I know how you feel!

Speaking of being uncomfortable...they just built a big fancy new baseball stadium and Jay is just itching to go to a game. He actually asked me if I'd want to go next weekend. I can't think of anything more miserable than sitting in a stadium seat for 3+ hours!

Karen, thanks for the reassurance. It does freak me out although common sense says in the overall picture, it's kind of a stupid thing to get concerned about. I guess I just won't know until I'm actually there...IN THREE WEEKS! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/eek.gif

[mb]

MrsReber, congrats on the baby furniture. you must be very excited... the dressers are ready to move into baby's room AND we found a crib yesterday - we'll be picking it up this weekend! we chose a glider too, but I think my DH's grandparents are going to buy that for us.

More importantly, I'm sorry you're not feeling so great. Just try to take it easy. Now is the time to try to relax and let yourself be waited on/pampered. It's nice that Kyle is doing so much to help you out. I think the bigger we get, the more our husbands feel bad for us and so they help out more! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

And about going to NC - I don't think you can decide NOW if you're going to be up to taking that kind of trip - you have to see what your baby is like. There may be babies that will sleep the whole way and it's no big deal. But other babies might be more fussy or colicky or something like that. Everyone in your family should understand if you don't feel comfortable going with a small baby (and your first baby, too)... it sounds like maybe they've been hanging around with my family - not taking NO for an answer!!! stand your ground - if you're not comfortable with it, then don't go. but maybe when august rolls around you'll feel up to it (despite the 12 hour drive!)...

anyone heard from SusanD. i was thinking maybe she had the baby? how will we find out when she does? (not saying we need to be the FIRST ones to know.... http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif)

Have a good weekend MrsReber - get some rest and feel better!

Marisa

[mb]

oops, SusanD must have posted her message while i was typing mine! Glad to hear you're still with us! My dr said that technically the baby can safely arrive at 36 weeks, so i'm figuring you can have the baby any day now! sorry for jumping the gun there!

[MrsReber]

Isn't that a scary thought? Having the baby at 36 weeks? My husband still says it'll be three weeks early. I hope he's wrong! I'll still be working!!! Yikes!!

Ha ha- Susan, that's funny about the recliner. I want ours in the baby's room, too. We have a ranch with two huge windows in the front so I don't think I'll be nursing in the livingroom unless it's 2:00am. It's a raised ranch, but anyone who walks on to the porch can look right in the house (and they do!).

Ugh, sitting for 3 hours for a baseball game? I think not! I have trouble sitting for a whole hour at work. I just have to get up and stretch my legs out. Poor Jay. He'll just have to wait!

Yep, that's not good about Kyle's job. The government always pulls stuff like that. At least it's not a total layoff and he can work there a few days a week. He knows we need the money now more than ever.

Marisa- I'm glad you found a crib! Yes, these husbands are quite funny. My husband doesn't want me doing any laundry now. He says he doesn't want me bending. That's fine with me! I do still want to help out at home, though.

My blood pressure has been the same as it ever was. It's always been perfectly normal. I'm glad I never had to worry about it. I'm dizzy enough as it is! As for the car trip,yes, it's too early to make such plans and I agree with SusanD- I hate any car trip over 6 hours. No, they don't take no for an answer. I just don't want to be thought of as the evil witch who refuses to go to NC.




[This message has been edited by MrsReber (edited 04-06-2001).]

[SusanD]

Yes, I'm still here! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif
Thanks for thinking of me! I must admit, there's a teeny part of me that wouldn't mind it if I went into labor tomorrow. (I think she agrees with me because she's kicking like crazy right now) Tomorrow will be week 37, and it's at that point that the baby would be considered full term. And don't worry, I'll keep you all posted...even if it means putting my laptop in the labor bag! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

Oh, speaking of husbands and their good deeds, Jay made me a cheesecake last night (a Dailey family specialty that only comes out on special occasions). I'm not so sure this was a good deed, but I'm sure enjoying it!

[This message has been edited by SusanD (edited 04-06-2001).]

[mb]

SusanD, glad to hear you're still hanging around... http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif i think i'd like to avoid labor as long as possible!!! 36 weeks is a little on the early side, but not so terrible. my SIL had her baby 2 months premature - it was scary at first, but now the little one is ok. so compared to that, 36-37 weeks is a long time and your baby would be just fine.

SusanD, i was just wondering how many ultrasounds you had? was it just one? or was there more than 1 that told you you're having a girl? just curious...

now, this isn't baby-related, but i just had to share - and i don't mean to make anyone feel bad, either! we are having the most glorious day here! i work in downtown west palm beach, basically on the intracoastal waterway. i just came back from a beautiful walk - it's in the 70's today, and sunny, and breezy, and beautiful. in the main part of downtown on the water there is a huge area where water fountains shoot up out of the sidewalk and little kids run and play in the water. plus, there was a band there playing music - it was so awesome. after moving around a lot last year, i have to say, i'm really glad i live here now. it's just beautiful! today is just one of those days where it just feels great to be alive http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif i know, probably every day should feel like that, but this one is extra-wonderful http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

have a great weekend everyone!

marisa http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[MrsReber]

Kristi- thank you!!!! I thought about that, too, how the baby is going to be up every 2 hours or so at night. It's not like they can help me feed if I'm going to be breastfeeding! This is a HUGE house on the beach and there will probably be 20 other people there. They tell me "you'll have plenty of babysitters". Yeah, I'm sure they're all dying for the chance to sit inside the house since a 3 month old cannot be in the sun all day! I just know that 12 hours in the car would turn into a 2 day car trip. We don't want to be in the car for a total of 4 days (2 there and 2 back). They think they all know because they have kids. Most of the kids are older, but there will be a couple of younger loud mouths around. I knew I wasn't crazy!

My MIL is going crazy. She was over Tuesday night and she wanted to look at the sonogram pictures because she thinks she can tell if we're having a boy or a girl. Then she asks me if the heartbeat is fast or slow (compared to what?!?!) because if the doctor said it was fast, it must be a girl. Aren't all baby heartbeats fast? She cannot stand it. It makes me think we won't find out with baby #2 either! She wanted to go to the sonograms with us and talk to the technician! I said no way. She will not know what our child is before we do- and again, they aren't always right, based on the baby's position. Susan, your tech sounds pretty thorough, so I hope it all works out okay!

Wow, a cheesecake? That's amazing! I am impressed that Jay can make a cheesecake. We just finished the cheesecake I made last Saturday. I couldn't help myself!! I only had small peices and I made it light.

Well, I am leaving a little early today. It's yucky here- be thankful Marisa. We have rain until at least Monday! But I don't mind too much. It makes it a little easier on me as far as being lazy. I don't feel so guilty if I'm not outside doing something.

[mb]

MrsReber, I also agree with Kristi. I think the trip will be really hard on you, Kyle, and your little one. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif if people don't understand that, then they are being selfish (in my opinion). don't be afraid to stand your ground. i think i'd rather be the 'evil witch who doesn't want to go to NC' instead of a miserable, tired, worn-out mom with a cranky baby (& maybe a cranky husband!) who have been manipulated into taking a long trip they didn't want to take! just remember: it's very easy for other people to suggest what YOU ought to do. one thing i learned from planning our wedding, is that no matter what you do, you are never going to make everyone happy about everything. that's why i say 'hey, this is your family and your baby - do what you feel is right!'

your MIL sounds a little like my mother, although i must admit my mom didn't think she'd be able to interpret the sonograms! she should at least try to respect the fact that you don't want to find out the sex until the big day. (so just between all of us, are you keeping it a surprise JUST so that your MIL doesn't find out? http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif)

one thing i heard about the heartbeat: apparently, the fast/slow thing doesn't really correlate to boy/girl until you are actually in labor (if it even properly predicts then!) it's just another old wive's tale.

SusanD, this will be our 3rd ultrasound. The first one was at 9weeks-ish, because the dr wanted to make sure everything was ok before we told the family (on thanksgiving) - we couldn't see much, but we were able to hear the heartbeat. then we had the main one, around 18 weeks - that's where we could see a lot of anatomy (or lack thereof?). we posted the sonograms on our webpage & mailed it to all our friends we were so excited.

however, our baby was extremely shy & wouldn't really let the tech see areas that would predict the sex (if the baby is modest, then it must be mine!). finally, after 40 minutes, we were able to catch a glimpse of some key areas and didn't see any 'protrusions', so the tech felt 90% certain it was a girl. she said that in a span of 45 minutes, the boys will usually show you their goods at least one time - and usually, they keep themselves occupied in the womb by playing with themselves. i thought this was sort of vulgar, but funny... i just thought, 'gee, typical male - it starts early!'

well, have a great weekend everyone. i'm pretty sure my DH won't be making me a cheesecake this weekend, but Saturday is the first night of Passover and we are delegated to bring desserts, so I'm sure he'll just help me make the cakes. Maybe I can get him to clean up afterwards too http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

MrsReber, feel better and have fun getting your furniture!

SusanD, let us know if you have the baby!

marisa http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[Susann]

It is me, weighing in on the poop controversy! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gifMy perspective on this situation is a little different. I am also very modest by nature, but because of the health problems I have, any ounce of modesty went out the window about a year ago! Usually, I have to go to the specialist at least twice a month for ultrasounds and other fun gynecological tests. Also, because my health problems are causing me to have fertility problems, I have to keep track of all sorts of things which are too graphic for the BB (don't want to freak anyone out!!!!). Then I get to share all this personal info with my doctor!! Yikes! Anyway, there is a morale to my story. I think once you find yourself in that situation(you know, the whole poop thing!), you may not even think twice about it. Of course, all of you fortunate pregnant ladies are going to have to take good notes for me, because I hope to join you verysoon. Keep us posted and enjoy this special time!

[kwormann]

Hard to believe everyone is so close to due date!

Im excited, I spoke with the genetic counselor today (Im sure Ive mentioned hubby's MD and Ehlers Danlos syndrome). Im anxious to hear what she has to say!

Susan, If it will make you feel better, we took my niece from IN to NC (11 hr trip) at 3 weeks old...she basically slept the whole way!

Kim

[Kristilyn1]

A 12 hour car trip with a baby?! Please. I think I would go insane. I'm assuming that other people will be staying at the house the same time as you? If so, are they insane? They want to have to be quiet at 7PM at night, get woken up in the middle of the night--have to close doors quietly during the day--not talk too loud, etc., etc.? Plus, do they have children? Children that will have to be told 500 times to SHHHH, the baby's sleeping? People without small children or even people who's children are no longer babies--forget what it's like. Older children (over 2) don't require two naps a day, etc. so they forget how much it affects the ENTIRE household when there is a baby in it.

Don't feel bad, Mrs. Reber--you are doing them a favor!

Kristi

[SusanD]

Marisa, I had two ultrasounds. The first was too early to determine the sex, so it was the second one that we found out. Will your next ultrasound be your 2nd or 3rd? I'm not really losing sleep over it - the tech. sounded pretty certain, pointed out on the screen how she came to her conclusion, and even double-checked from a couple of angles. There's always that chance, though...but as long as the baby's healthy anything else can be dealt with. Since the room is pretty unisex (aquarium theme), all it would mean is that most of the clothes we have now would have to be packed away for baby #2, and we'd have to do some more shopping (which isn't necessarily the worst thing in the world http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif). As it is, I'm starting to wash all her clothes and stuff and discovered that we have TONS of newborn (0-3 months) stuff, but not much in the larger sizes. Hopefully she won't grow too fast before I can get enough energy to get to the mall.

Sounds like you're having a wonderful day! I love that feeling! They're predicting a beautiful weekend here too - sunny and near 70. I can't wait! Spring is here! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

Have a great weekend everyone!

[KristaMB]

Aaarrrgh! I had just finished typing a response and then I hit a wrong key and it all disappeared.

I've been missing for awhile because my back has been killing me. The last thing I want to do when I get home from work is get back on a computer and sit in an uncomfortable chair. But I have missed y'all, and since it's pouring rain here, I thought it'd be a good time to catch up.

SusanD, congratulations on finishing the nursery! I am anxious to get started, but haven't even made the first step. We still don't even know what we are going to do with all the furniture that is in here. (The computer is in the baby's room/ office/ guest room) I was thinking about getting a computer armoire, as the computer is the only thing I really care about keeping, but I have no idea where to put an armoire in this tiny house. Also, just found out that one of our cars needs almost $800 worth of repairs... Yikes! I know that August is still a long way off, but time has been going by so fast.

Our next Dr.'s appt. is on the 19th. We'll be finding out if the baby is a girl or a boy. Hopefully the baby will cooperate and be in a good position. My DH can hardly wait to find out. He's really excited!

Okay, I have to weigh in on the "poop" thing, too. I would definintely be mortified if it happened. I know that it's normal, and that by the time you're in hard labor you're not supposed to care, but still, I think I'd die! I guess I'll just have to say a little prayer that all of us modest pregnant ladies don't suffer undue humiliation. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

Okay, now I need your advice/ opinion. Let me just preface the question I'm about to ask with the following statement. I work with a bunch of very superstitious people, and they are telling me a ton of things that I know I shouldn't believe. But some of them swear that these things aren't just old wives tales, and they have supposedly had confirmation from their doctor's, etc. that these things are true. The only one that I even get a little worried about is this: Is it okay to stretch your upper body/ arms/ torso and/or to reach for things just past your arm's length? Everybody is swearing to me that I am wrapping the umbilical cord around the baby's neck when I do this. That just doesn't seem to make any sense to me. I just can't imagine that a soft stretch would cause this. Logically, I know that is okay to do yoga, and a ton of other things, but them saying this is really starting to get to me. I haven't seen anyhting written about this in the books I have, so I was just wondering what you've heard, if anything.

Okay, I need one more little piece of advice. My doctor said it would be okay for me to fly up until the 4th of July. My godmother wants to have a shower for me on June 30th. Do you think it would be comfortable for me to make an hour and half flight at 30-32 weeks? Opinions, please http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Well, that's all for now. Hope you enjoy your weekend!

~Krista

[shoyski]

Krista, I'm due September 9th and have been enjoying myself, reading everyone's comments.
I want to address your question regarding stretching up. Bottom line, it's totally fine to do so.

Last month my doctor brought up some things that people tell you are bad and he mentioned that stretching up high to put cups away, etc is just fine. He mentioned that people will tell you about the umbilical cord problem but that it's an old wive's tale.

I was quite startled since I had never, ever heard of such a thing but I can see how that could freak you out. So don't worry, go ahead and stretch.

[shoyski]

Oops, double post.

[This message has been edited by shoyski (edited 04-07-2001).]

[Kristilyn1]

Don't you just hate it when people tell you these scary stories? In my experience--the best thing that you can do--is laugh when they tell you--then find some written "proof" somewhere and present it to your coworkers. People who believe these crazy stories are only swayed by the written word.

Another tactic for Mrs. Reber and the long trip. One tactic that works for me--when I get bullied, is I will say "yes, we are probably going to come" then wait until a week before the trip and tell them that the baby has a cold, or SOME good reason not to go. This of course will only work if your sudden reversal wouldn't cause financial harm or some other detriment to the others involved==other than their disappointment. That way you are being openminded about the trip--who knows--maybe you will be DYING to go by the time it comes--either way you are covered.

It's so nice to hear all about these pregnancies (I have every mom's obsession with babies and pregnancy) but the best part is--I'M NOT PREGNANT.

Kristi

[KristaMB]

Shoyski and Kristi,

Thank you, thank you! I just knew they were wrong! However, when you hear people tell you the same thing over and over again everyday, you start to wonder....

Congratulations, shoyski!

~Krista

[MrsReber]

Wow, seems like alot of posts since I last checked in! Kristi, I agree, I will not take a week out of my life to make myself uncomfortable. I know they mean well, but I would be miserable there. I am sure that I will not be back to my size yet, so I'd have to even buy new clothes to go away- clothes we really can't afford now since hubby's job is cutting back with hours again.

I can't tell you how many people have told me that stretching will wrap the cord around the baby's neck. My MIL tells me this story (twice so far) about how this pregnant girl she works with is doing cartwheels and she'll wrap the cord around the baby's neck for sure! First off, I find it hard to believe that a pregnant woman would want to be doing cartwheels. I mean, I'm dizzy enough just standing up! There are so many crazy tales out there. I would go crazy if I couldn't stretch. I do about 15 minutes of stretching several times a day because my muscles get a bit cramped up when I am at work.

We got our baby furniture!! Kyle called our neighbor over to help move the dresser in. He's going to put the crib together while the race is on today.

Oh, as far as flying, the danger is in the blood clots. We drove to VA about three weeks ago. The doctor told me to stop and walk around several times and to flex your feet alot. The blood can get down to your legs, but because of the weight of the baby, it can't get back up to your heart. That's when the clots occur. An hour and a half on a plane isn't too bad. Just remember to get up for a few minutes and take a stroll down the aisle (probably to the bathroom!!).

Marisa, you have found me out. Now that I know that it's killing my MIL to not know the sex, I don't think I'd find out with the next child (or the one after that, if we get that far!) I like watching her suffer just a tad. Why should she know if we don't know? I think it's fun to be surprised, though. We're actually much happier this way. I can't believe, though, when I go to the store that all the newborn clothes are boy or girl clothes. It's hard to find neutral stuff anymore!

August is not that far off! I used to think May was far off! Ha!

[SusanD]

Wow...there's been a lot of activity since I last checked! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Susan, I agree with everyone else...don't let your family bully you into doing something you don't feel comfortable with! Although, I like Kristi's solution, tell them you're coming just to keep them quiet, and then at the last minute come up with some reason you can't. How exciting that you got the room finished! You'll have to post a pic. of it on your webpage! How about the rest of your furniture, has that come yet? I think that's funny about you wanting to keep your MIL in the dark about the baby's sex.

At this moment, my in-laws are finding out that they're about to become grandparents for the THIRD time...my SIL called us this weekend to tell us that she's pregnant again. I nearly fell over when she told me. She has an 8-month-old at home now, I think she's completely insane! My in-laws flew out to visit her yesterday, so by now they know. Well, they wanted grandkids...now they're getting them by the busload!!!!

I started packing my hosptial bag this weekend, I packed three outfits for the baby. Like mother like daughter...she's not sure what she'll be in the mood to wear that day! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

Marisa, I think that is so funny about little baby boys playing with themselves even in the womb! I told my husband that, he's like "well, boys will be boys!"

Susann, I've been thinking about you lately, I hope all goes well for you...conceptually! I was discussing the poop issue with a co-worker of mine who was recently treated for cervical cancer, she laughed and said, when you check in to the hospital they make you leave your dignity in a bag at the door!

Kim, good luck to you, let us know what happens! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Krista, thanks for the congrats! We're very excited! The countdown is on...

As for the stretching thing, if it makes you feel any better I've never even heard that about the cord. The only "danger" I've heard about stretching is that because your muscles and joints are more relaxed and flexible when you're pregnant, you need to be more careful because you increase the chance of injury to yourself. I've heard all kinds of weird stuff that you shouldn't do when you're pregnant, most of it my dr. has completely dismissed. And flying...I would think you'd be fine on a 1 1/2 hour flight. Like Susan said, just be sure to get up and stretch. Also drink lots of water before, during and after, because flying really dehydrates you.

Shoyski,congratulations! Let us know how everything goes!

I AM SOOOO READY TO HAVE THIS BABY!!!! I just had to let that out. I just keep hoping that I'll be early! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif Well, I'm off to a meeting...have a good day, all!

[mb]

Susann, glad to hear you're thinking of joining this little baby club! good luck and keep us posted!

Krista, sorry to hear about your back pains. In my 1st trimester, I had some serious sciatica, and it wasn't fun. luckily, it got better within a week or 2.

Good luck at your dr appointment - can't wait to hear if it's a boy or girl! before our ultrasound, i took an informal poll of those around me to see if they thought it would be a boy or girl - most people said 'boy'...i was actually a little surprised! the tech told us it was probably a girl. so when i announced the results, everyone was excited and said 'i thought you'd have a boy, but i was secretly hoping for a girl!'. people say some weird things sometimes.

I've also heard that the stretching thing is an old wives tale. I agree though - everyone puts in their 2 cents and sometimes it can be scary. I say just listen to what your doctor says!

oh, and since i'm at that 30-32 week mark, i wanted to comment on travel. i think i'd probably be up to a 1.5 hour flight. at 3 months, i flew up to NY, and the next week i flew out to california (both weekend trips). at 4 months, i flew to north carolina for the weekend. at 5 months, we went to paris (also for a long weekend). i'm definitely bigger now, but i think a relatively short flight would be doable. just get up and walk around a lot. and drink lots of water, too.

MrsReber, I have to comment on the cartwheel thing! I was a gymnast for many, many, many years, and it is one of my little 'traditions' to do a handstand everywhere i go (i.e. in front of the eiffel tower in paris, on top of masada in israel, on rocks overlooking the ocean in the caribbean, etc.) i even did a handstand in my wedding dress (but not in front of everyone! - and my DH carefully held on to my dress so i wouldn't over-expose myself!) i have often thought about doing a handstand while pregnant, but i'd be afraid of hurting the baby somehow. also, i'm a little embarrassed about asking the dr if it's ok because it sounds so stupid!!! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif i feel up to it, so i guess maybe it is possible that that woman is doing cartwheels. but my question is: WHY is she doing cartwheels? that sounds kinda strange!!! even from my perspective!! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

Congrats again on your baby furniture. We got our crib this weekend - it's so freaky now because everything seems so much more real! the room is definitely a baby's room now! plus, our childbirth classes start on friday, so it's getting even more real. i think i have approx. 5-10 weeks to go. the whole thing is going by SOOOOOOOOOO quickly, i can't even believe it!

it must seem that much more real for SusanD, who is already packing her hospital bag! yikes! (but that's an exciting, hooray 'yikes'!)

have a great day everyone!

marisa http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[MrsReber]

Oh boy- after I posted, hubby went to put the crib together. Guess what? No instructions! I called the store. They didn't have them there either. So we figured we'd put the flip kit (it's a changing attachment) on top of the dresser. We could at least do that! Take it out of the box (original packing) and there's a big gash in the wood! Kyle said he could get wood filler and fix it. I told him absolutely not- they will replace it. It cost $170!!! The pad that came with it is not the changing pad that I was told would come with it. And- to top it all off, after the dresser was in the baby's room, we noticed that one of the supports was not attached correctly and he had to reglue it. Now, for all the money we paid for this furniture, I was very unhappy. I called the store back again to tell them. I have to call again today to see if they can fax the crib instructions over and, also, they have to get me a NEW flip kit. Very disappointed.

Our childbirth classes start next tuesday (the 17th). The tour of the hospital isnt' until the 4th or 5th week of class! I hope we make it that long. Kyle says he wants to set up a tour for us now so that we know exactly what to do on the big day.

Why cartwheels? I have no idea. Maybe she's really happy? I can't do a cartwheel to begin with. My sister did stand on her head when she learned that her first baby wasn't turning. She didn't want a c-section and (could be an old wives' tale) was told that standing on her head would let the baby know which way to go. It didn't work.

Also, I think we need to create a list of the top 10 things NOT to say to a pregnant woman (if you want to live, that is!). My in-laws come over and say things like "wow, you're getting big!!" They called my husband during my 6th month to ask "is she getting big yet?" Why? Did they think I'd be the same size? My favorite is when my neighbor said "if it's a girl, send it back. Boys are easier". And she wants to babysit for us!! My MIL tells me stories of how she miscarried in her 5th month. She asks if I leak any and tells me how my breasts will leak every time the baby cries, even if I am at work and away from the baby. I just have to bite my tongue most of the time and figure they just don't realize they're being rude. Or they're just insane. I dont' know.

Wow, SusanD, you are so close! I am ready to have this baby now and get my body (and my mind) back. You must be going crazy! There's 2 of us right behind you! I have no idea how I am going to get through five more weeks of work.

[mb]

MrsReber, I am SOOOOOO sorry to hear about your furniture! That is so frustrating. That kind of thing always happens to us, if it makes you feel any better. Don't back down with the store until you get exactly what you want! Your baby's stuff should be brand new and perfect!

How many weeks are your childbirth classes? I thought we were cutting it close with starting on the 13th (class is 6 weeks)...I don't know when the hospital tour is given, hopefully close to the beginning in case people don't make it to the end. Our instructor called us last night to remind us to bring pillows, etc. It's getting very real!

I agree with your top-10 list idea. I hate when people talk about how big I'm getting, although I know it's ok to get big - in fact, if we DIDN'T get big that would be bad! but still, i think it's in a girl's nature to get offended when people tell her she's gotten big (pregnant or not)! my DH's family is russian and every time i see them they tell me i look fatter (when i wasn't pregnant) - but to them, that's a good thing (skinny=unhealthy!) but that doesn't really make me feel any better! i don't mind the breast advice when i've asked for it - most of the stuff that just kills me is all that UNSOLICITED advice from supposedly well-meaning people. I'll have to think up some things people have said to me so I can add it to the list. But for now, my vote is 'My, how big you've gotten!' as #1!!!

marisa http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[SusanD]

Here's my 2 cents on the "what not to say to a pregnant woman" thing...stop telling me what I should and shouldn't be doing or eating (for example, the stretching thing that Krista mentioned...or that I'm not supposed to clean the bathroom, eat sausage, or garden). If I want to know I'll ask my dr! Also, I'm amazed at how many MEN have felt compelled to tell me what not to do.

Susan, that really stinks about your furniture! I would be furious, too. I'm sure you'll get it all worked out, but just what you DON'T need right now. http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/mad.gif

And I can't even imagine trying to do a cartwheel at this point. Even if it didn't bother the baby at all, I'd probably make a giant fool of myself.

How exciting that you all are starting your childbirth classes soon. We really enjoyed ours. Just make sure you go in there with a sense of humor, you'll need it! I think the tour was the best part, but it did make everything very real and I was a little freaked out after that.

Oh, and Marisa...I've been saying "Yikes" a lot these days! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

[MrsReber]

Yes, I agree "My how big you've gotten" has got to be number 1! I equate big with fat. I guess that's why I get so offended. But really, to call up and ask if I'm "big"? And Susan, I agree- people tell me what I should and shouldn't do. Everyone at work wants me to sit all the time. I try to explain that sitting for long periods of time is BAD. And you gotta love all the cutesy names- Hey preggo!

Well, I got the crib instructions faxed over, so that's a start. Now I just have to work on the other stuff.

Our childbirth classes are 5 weeks. They start April 17th and the last class is on May 15th- which is kind of close for me, but they told me to schedule them close to my due date! They don't hold them at the hospital. I was surprised by that.

I can't believe we're all so close. These past 33 weeks were like a dream- kind of like I was sleepwalking and I still have a hard time with the reality of it all. I think, like SusanD said, once the classes start, it'll seem alot closer. I agree- YIKES http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/eek.gif

[Kristilyn1]

The leaking thing made me laugh! I didn't breastfeed my children and this last time, I leaked for about 5 months after and it's true! Every time I would be in the grocery store and a baby would cry--there it would go. I had to use inserts until 6 months after......I can't even describe the feeling. My #1 thing to NOT say to a pregnant woman--"Wow, you must be getting ready to deliver ANY MINUTE" and you are only 7 months pregnant. I got huge with child with my last one even though I only gained 30 lbs.--I looked like a house!

Also, Mrs. Reber--make sure the assembled crib will fit through the bedroom door if your husband is assembling it in another room......my hubby (who really is incredibly handy) found out the hard way that the crib was too big to fit through the door of the baby's room.

Kristi

[shoyski]

The #1 stupid comment in my book so far is,
"Boy, your life is really going to change."
No DUH! We've thought about it,planned on it and in fact, welcome it...that's why we got pregnant!

[BeckyM]

Hi Everyone!

I haven't posted in a while, because we've been in a bit of a holding pattern -- me ready to try getting pregnant, my husband still rather hesitant. But we have made one small step forward now. This is my second day off the pill!

The only thing that is holding us back now is having a discussion with my husband's brother and his wife about autism. Because we have a niece and a nephew who are both autistic (out of 11 nieces & nephews on my husband's side), we are both apprehensive about our chances of having an autistic child. My husband's brother and his wife are really knowledgeable about the current medical understanding of the causes of autism, because they're both physicians, their daughter is autistic, and my SIL is currently working on research in that area. Our understanding is that no one knows for sure what causes autism, but the belief is that there is some hereditary component. I think my husband is hoping to get some really critical piece of information from them, but I don't think they'll be able to tell us anything definite. My philosopy is that there is no way to know what could possibly go wrong with a child, so we should just leave it in God's hands. I am trying to trust that whatever God has in store for us, (s)he will help us through it.

So our plan is for me to be off the pill, so whenever my husband is comfortable with the whole thing, we can start trying. I'm hoping he won't be too freaked out by our discussion with his brother, so we can proceed with our plans in a few months. In the meantime, I'm getting used to taking a pre-natal vitamin every morning instead of Loestrin.

So count me in as one of the ones who are hoping to be fertile and to be posting pregnancy stories soon! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[mightyh]

mb - I say do what makes you comfortable with "hosting" family, BUT I can relate a good experience on this...

My relatives came in waves to visit right after our baby was born cause none lived near us. I was really worried about it before I had the baby, but when it actually happened I enjoyed it for the most part. I was really exhausted for a long time after having the baby and I just let myself get into the mindset that I was not "hosting" anyone. They were staying in my house (actually a very small apartment at the time--guests had to sleep in a makeshift bed in the loft area) with us and that's all. I ended up really welcoming the help, as they cooked most of the meals, helped with laundry, and gave me some much needed baby breaks so I could get some naps in for bits of time.

I think the key to being able to do this if you want to is letting go of the typical hostess duties (and making sure they will let you) and having them help out a lot. I don't think the eleven month old will be too tough--might be walking by then and will mainly be interested in his own toys, etc. Should have a set bedtime and routine by then and his parents probably have a very good handle on how to keep him tame.

Good luck with whatever you decide. I know it seems now like you'll want to be alone with DH then, enjoying your new family and you may... But I had those ideas, too, and now have changed my mind in favor of as much help as I can get cause labor and sleepless nights filled with breastfeeding and crying baby sucked all the energy out of me for quite some time (probably 6 weeks). http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[Vanessa]

I have been reading the threads. You know people will make the weirdest remarks to pregnant women and give them all kind of unsolicited advice. My mom has always said "if you don't have something nice to say just don't say anything". Wish one could be honest and tell people that. I do love someone's answer to being asked if she was pregnant (no, just had a huge lunch!) That was good http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif

[mb]

A coworker told me also to be aware if you haven't given birth and your due date passes - people will call you every single day until the baby comes. But she said even then it won't stop - after the baby comes you won't get any peace and quiet from well-wishers! see what wonderful things we have to look forward to?!? http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

the dumbest thing i've been asked is 'Are you pregnant?'. DUH! Luckily, I've come up with some smart responses for next time this happens, such as 'No, I just ate a really big lunch!' http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/biggrin.gif

Kristi - good call about the crib being able to fit through the doorway. One consolation is that sometimes you can just take the door off the hinge and then the crib will fit. But if that doesn't work...

MrsReber, how many different names do you get called? only my DH calls me 'preggo'! i just like it when he keeps that to a minimum!


OK, now I need some advice! We want to have a family gathering after the baby arrives, since we are not having a baby shower. It will sort of be a meet-the-baby party. We have come up with a weekend in July for the date, since my NY relatives will already be here on vacation, and my DH's relatives are willing to come at that time.

Here's the catch: my SIL and her husband (and their baby who will be 11 months old then) want to stay with us at our house. (I think use of 'Yikes' is appropriate here...) Ordinarily, I would say no - the baby will be too small and I want to spend time alone with her and my DH.

However, we lived in their house with them for 2 months while we lived in NY, and we always stay with them when we go to visit. I.e., I feel obligated to host them at our house, even though our house isn't quite set up to receive guests - no sleeper sofas & we would probably have to set up a mattress on the floor of our baby's room, and then our baby niece could sleep in our baby's crib (our baby will be in a bassinet in our room). Plus, there is a strong possibility that my MIL will be accompanying them. Also, they want to stay for a week (although I think they may go to Disney for a few days...)

I don't think I'll be up to hosting anyone when baby is only 2-4 weeks old, especially a house full of guests. Plus, if they stay a week, it will cost too much $ to foot the bill at a nearby hotel. My DH also feels obligated to have them stay with us (moreso because it's his sister & they are very close).

Has anyone heard of a new mom hosting guests at their home following childbirth? (other than their mom...) Since my SIL is a new mom herself, you would think that she wouldn't even think of bringing it up! I feel stuck, because I even voiced my disapproval of houseguests right after baby arrives, and she had some sarcastic kinda remark (although she is always very nice...)

HELP!