John Robert's Birth Story

On Monday, June 10, we were told to schedule a routine Non Stress Test for Friday, June 14, just shy of 41 weeks to ensure baby was still looking good in utero. When we showed up at 9AM that morning, I'll admit, I was a bit nervous. I wrote it off as taking another test I couldn't study or otherwise prepare of, and my blood pressure showed it, up in the 140s/90something.  Then, during the NST, he was not particularly active. Blood pressure was down to 136/82 by the end of the test, but we were sent on the Labor and Delivery for further monitoring.

It was about 10AM when we arrived at the hospital and made our way up to OB Triage. My blood pressure was way down when I laid on my left side, and, while I felt baby reacting on the fetal heart monitor, his heart rate was not accelerating like they had hoped. (Good news was, though, that it wasn't decelerating, either.) My Dr came back and explained the results. The next plan of action would be to admit me, do a Contraction Stress Test, and decide from there how the baby was going to get here. Regardless, she told us, "You're having a baby today." Nick promptly went home to switch cars and get our stuff.

About 12:30, we were moved into our Labor and Delivery room. I got hooked up to another Fetal Heart Rate Monitor, a contraction monitor, and some pitocin. The goal was to get the pitocin to bring on 3 contractions in 10 minutes and see how the baby responded. Once again, baby was non-responsive. Around 3:30, the decision was made we'd move forward with a C Section. The concern was baby would not tolerate labor well, and eventually require an emergency C Section after a long (and unnecessary) labor. 

It was 8:45 before they walked us down the OR-quite possibly the longest 5 hours of my life. We kept thinking we were getting to I back, but another woman was ready to push around 6, which turned into an emergency c section, so we continued to wait. Even as we walked down the hall. The stopped us as they thought the doctor was being called into another emergency situation. (Thankfully, for everyone, he was not.)

Nick waited outside the OR while they gave me my spinal and did the final preps for surgery. (He said it was the longest 15 minutes of his life.) Once he to back there, they began the actual cutting and 5 minutes later, John Robert was here with us. Hearing him cry for the first time was one of the most amazing experiences ever. 

Once they finished putting me back together, Nick headed to the NICU with Baby Jack (for standard transitional tests and measurements), while I hung out in recovery. Recovery went pretty quickly-I was finally able to get a cup of water and some ice chips. Nick and Jack joined me about 15 minutes before we started on our journey down to the post partum unit.

As they sat me up in bed, I felt the nausea strike...and I just got sicker with every turn we made. I was thrilled to see my family waiting in the hallway, but I would have been just as happy to curl up in a dark corner somewhere. We got settled in our room, and my family greeted little Jack. It was wonderful to see how excited they were over him. I mowed down on some beef broth, cranberry juice, water, and a Popsicle. And as my family was leaving, promptly threw it all up. I threw up again around 2AM and 4AM. I think it was a combination of the anesthesia, exhaustion, hunger, and eating too quickly. At 6AM I took some anti-nausea medicine. For breakfast I had toast, jello, crackers, and cranberry juice, but by lunch, I was eating a normal lunch.

Saturday, I was slow, stiff, and sore to stand up, but otherwise well. No pain killers, until about 10PM. No poop yet (I know that's what you were wondering about), but I've been peeing like a pro, and generally recuperating well. We were expecting to be in the hospital until Monday, but we were doing so well, they sent us on home by lunch time.

Induction thoughts

The further past my due date I go, the more I think about the possibility of induction. I really, really hate drugs. In a situation where I have minimal control, they make me feel even more out of control. And, for me at least, a planned induction equates a C section, something I truly want to avoid.

I was born 6 days late. My mother's water broke at 11PM, with no contractions in sight. They gave her pitocin right away, and when her body made minimal progress (and I was in distress), they switched to an emergency C section 24 hours later.

My sister was induced around 37 weeks with my nephew due to pre-eclampsia. Her body was not ready, so 46 hours later, he arrived via C section. When my niece bordered on 2 weeks late, they didn't even other to try to induce, they went straight to C section.

I know family history is not the be all, end all of how things will go down for me, but the longer I go, the more likely I believe it. And I don't want it. (But, truly, who does?) It just seems like the women in my family are not cut out for birthing babies.

At the same time, I'm over being pregnant. Yes, I'm uncomfortable and huge, but that seems minimal at this point. I'm ready to move on to the next phase. This week in particular I feel like I've been in a holding pattern. I'm ready to move past that.

So when I go for my appointment next week at 41 weeks 1 day, what do I say? Ask them to try to hold off longer to see if I can make this happen and avoid induction? Beg them to induce me that day so I can move on? Then there is always the fear that baby won't be doing too well at the Non Stress Test tomorrow. We could be looking at an induction (or C section if its really bad) tomorrow afternoon.

All I can do at this point is hope, wish, and pray that Nick Jr decides to make his appearance today...or at least sometime before Monday.

Labor? No, not really...

Prodromal labor-which sounds better than false labr-sums, mentally, physically, and emotionally. This past week has been a bit of a roller coaster ride...I hate questioning "Is this real?" I have constantly told myself I would end going over due, but after the events of the weekend, I've really felt down and blues out it. I keep telling myself it'll come-I'm only 2 days past a silly estimate at this point-and after some retail therapy yesterday afternoon, I think I actually believe it. 

Wednesday, June 5-
Woke up feeling off; tired, a little nauseous, and just not with it. Add in a ridiculously hormonal moment at the OB's office.

Thursday, June 6-
Woke up super early (4AMish). Felt like I had to pee all day long. Before we left to go up to Richmond to look at cars, thought I had a change in discharge. Had to stop at a rest stop along the way, realized I was losing my mucus plug. The rest of it made its exodus at a BMW dealership. Had 3 intense contractions on the way home (while I was driving) about 10 minutes apart. Had a serious conversation with Nick Jr that I had to get home before he did anymore.  He decided to go back to being super quiet.

Friday, June 7-
Up again fom 3:30-5, then awake for the day at 6:30AM. Nothing the rest of the day-no contractions.

Saturday, June 8-
Morning three of being up early. (This shit is getting old.) Woke up with back aches, which were inconsistent yet harsh enough for me to question if I was sore from the position I was in, or having contractions. Seemed to go away after napping on the couch. Went to a work picnic, felt really off and tired. Every movement I made extremely painful in my crotch. At about 8:30 PM, started to feel some contractions, mainly in back. Started timing them about 10 PM-lasting 45-60 secs, about 1.5-2 mins apart. Called Beth, gave her a heads up. Since she was already over this way, she came over to stay the night. I decided to get some sleep. Fell asleep around 11:30 PM. 

Sunday, June 9-

Woke up around 2:30, went downstairs around 3AM. Tried to go to sleep on the couch. Contractions started to get a little stronger, encomassing more of my abdomen rather than just my back. Fell asleep from 4:30-6:30. Got up, asked Nick to start making breakfast while I walked the dogs. I was sore and experiencing crazy lightning crotch while walking, but couldn't time any contractions while walking the dogs. At this point, contractions slowed down. We did everything-took a drive, walked around the mall...whenever I got still, contractions would slow down or stop. Took a much needed nap while Nick went to pay hockey (and we decided it there was no sense in Beth staying), I woke up to no contractions. *sigh*

Monday, June 10-

Dr's appt...no change in dilation or effacement. Non Stress Test scheduled for Friday, appointment for next Monday, an induction will be scheduled for sometime next Tuesday through Friday, unless Nick, Jr decides to come sometime sooner. 

Here's hoping the  real thing comes about before Friday so we don't even have to go the NST route!

Week 40

How far along? 40 weeks

How big is baby? A baby. Between 6 and 10 pounds, 18-21ish inches long

Total weight gain/loss: I was up to almost my WW starting weight on Wednesday at my appointment. 

Maternity clothes? Still have some non maternity items I can wear, like a really cute maxi dress I had on today. 

Sleep: Not good this week. Consistently waking up way too early.

Best moment this week: Getting Nick's car taken care of. Surprise shower thrown for me at the studio. 

Movement: He's slowed own some. Conserving his energy maybe?

Food Cravings: None. My appetite as actually decreased some. 

Food Aversions: Bananas. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: Contractions coming nd going throughout the week. Lost my mucus plug Thursday. Baby seems to be settling lower and lower, given his increased pressure on my bladder and the pain in my crotch. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: Exhaustion. Loss of breath. Frequent urination. Sore crotch. 

Belly Button in or out? In!

What I miss: People not being overly once rend with my cervix. 

What I am looking forward to: Meeting my little boy (hopefully) soon.

Upcoming appointments/events: Assuming I do go not labor, 40 week appointment is Monday at 10:30AM. 

Milestones: Full term. It's here at last. 

The truth about being 39 weeks pregnant

I hate the whole "Hurry and Wait" mentality. I feel like that is how I have lived this week. Make sure the house is picked up. Don't leave any dishes in the sink. You never know when the baby might come. To make matters worse, there are times when I just don't want to worry about picking up. I want to sit around and be a bum. Productivity has not always been first on my mind. 

And my evenings have been occupied with car shopping. Not my favorite thing to do, but a necessary evil right now. We found out Monday for certain the insurance company was going to total Nick's car after the accident last Friday. We kept going back and forth with which scenario we should do, replace his car and keep mine, get a new family car for me and have him drive mine, or replace both. Last night, after driving an hour and a half out of town, we found the perfect compromise of speed, power, and maturity for Nick at Carmax. I'm thrilled to be done with car shopping, and hoping that later this summer we can get my car replaced, too. Two car payments will suck, but I think at this point, it's a necessary evil. 

Between worrying over money, being harassed about when Nick, Jr, is going to arrive, and a sudden apprehension about labor and delivery, my Dr's appointment wasn't so good on Wednesday. My blood pressure was way up (usually its about 112-124/70-80; this time it was 138/86), my weight was 1 lb below what I was when I started Weight Watchers. My feet and ankles ave been ridiculously swollen this week (especially last night), and I felt like crap-nauseated, run down, and generally hating life at that moment. While we were in the examining room, Nick asked if I was OK. The flood gates opened up just as the Dr opened door. I have never been more embarrassed, which only made me cry harder. I can say I haven't had many emotional meltdowns this pregnancy, but that was truly a special one. 

All the while, I'm getting incessant phone calls and texts as to when I'm going to pop out this baby. Because, you know, I have so much control over that. Anyone I call automatically assumes I'm telling them the baby is on the way. (What they don't realize is there are very few people I'm going to call to tell that to. I don't care about people knowing, but I'm not going to be spending my time on the phone telling them all.) Here's a conversation from earlier this week with my grandmother:

Me: Hey grandma. 

Grandma: Are you on the way to the hospital?

Me: No, I'm on my way to see you.

Grandma: Oh {disappointed sigh}

Additionally, people are asking me questions about how dilated and effaced I am. Seriously, the waitress last night at Friendly's asked me about my cervix. Why is that appropriate, necessary or helpful? Wednesday, I was a little more dilated (a real, true centimeter) and about 50% effaced. Awesome. I also know that means jack shit-I might never go more than that on my own, or my body could have taken over, gone warp speed ahead and finished off the other 9 that night. I also lost my mucus plug last night. It was the most disgustingly, exciting thing ever; however, it could still be another week before I go into labor, or before they have to induce me. So while it is weird that people are so interested in these very intimate parts of my body that I am not really comfortable sharing, I also don't want to give them any false hope. If I tell them I truly believe the baby is coming this weekend (and I still kinda do), if he doesn't, they are going to be so disappointed. And I know it's all because they are excited and so eager to meet him, but so am I. None of us have any control over the situation, and I trying as hard as possible to relax and be zen about the whole thing, but let's face it, I'm a planner. I want to know when and how he's going to get here so I can prepare. But I can't. I don't need everyone reminding me how little control I have. 

Hospital Bag

We all know I'm a ridiculous, plan ahead packer. I started thinking about what to put in my hospital bag at about 30 weeks or so. Here I am, 9 weeks later, and still haven't touched it, but that's beside the point. At least I was ready to go.

Some things I held off on packing, waiting to see if I would need them or not in the mean time, and some things I kept switching out (or back in) for other items. I am certain I have over packed, and I'm OK with that. I feel like everything fits nicely in my suitcase with extra room to carry home any goodies from the hospital. While we live close enough Nick could run home to get something, I think he's going to be too afraid he's going to miss something if he leaves. I'd rather have too much right now that not enough.

So what's in the bag?

For Me:

• 2 sets of Nursing PJs, one with a coordinating robe
• Flip Flop Slippers
• Plastic Flip Flops 
• Nursing Tank Top
• Yoga Pants
• Black Maxi Dress for coming home
• Nursing Sleep Bra
• Nursing Sports Bra
• 3 pairs of underwear in a variety of styles (who knows what will feel more comfortable, if I decide to wear anything other than the hospital mesh panties)
• Post Partum Support Band

For Dad:

• 3 pairs of socks
• 3 tshirts (one is a surprise to go with matching onesie for baby)
• pair of comfy pants
• pair shorts
• 3 pairs of underwear
•  Plastic Flip Flops

Our toiletry bag stays packed all the time, but I did through in a few Labor and Delivery "specialty items"

• Gum
• Chapstick
• Plethora of Hairties

And some extras...

• Celebratory Bottle of Wine (one of my favorites-bonus that it's red and doesn't need to be kept cold)
• Baby Book
• Glasses
• Thank you Notes (Just in Case-I hope to be too busy!)
• Tennis Ball (For massaging during labor)
• Iphone Charger
• Ipad Charger
• Corkscrew (that bottle ain't going to open itself!)
• Towel and Washcloth (I've heard mixed reviews on the ones at the hospital. I'm most concerned about having one big enough for me!

Clothes for Baby

• 3 sleepers (2 size newborn, 1 size 3 month)
• 3 going home outfits 
• Blue Bubblesuit
• White Bubblesuit
• Blue overall set
•  Kimono Undershirt
• "Adorable Baby" Onesie

Other Items for Baby

• Aden +Anias Swaddle Blanket
• Carter Cotton Blanket
• Crib Shoes
• White Socks
• Blue Crocheted Socks
• White Mittens
• Blue Sweater and Hat

And just because the diaper bag is already packed...

• 2 Burp Rags
• 2 bibs
• Wet Bag
•  Diaper Clutch
• Diaper Cream
• Travel Wipes
• A few disposable diapers
• Medicine bag
• Bandaids
• Nasal Aspirator
• Medical Syringe
• Medicine Dropper
• Gripe Water
• Infant Tylenol
• Orajel
• Nail Clippers 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  All baby items are packed in the diaper bag, ready to go, and the diaper bag is inside the big suitcase.
  
  
  
  

What I don't have photographed here are a few things that are in a My Thirty-One Large Utility Tote out in the car (too lazy to bring it in)

• Regular Pillow
• Blanket
• Boppy Pillow

Last minute items to grab on our way out the door:

• Camera
• Camera Charger
• Ipads
• Phones (which seems silly as they are with us 99% of the time)

I have also through our pump in the car, just in case, and we have snacks in the front pocket of the hospital bag. I (hopefully) have packed everything so that it's easy to get to. The toiletry bag is on top of everything when you unzip the bag, but everything else I might need while in labor is a front pocket of the suitcase-not that I anticipate needing much. And yes, I did decide to use a carryon compliant suitcase as our hospital bag. I like that it's on wheels, so easy to move about, and when you open it, it's easy to see where everything is.

Hopefully, in the next couple of days, we'll find out just how good of a job I did with attempting to plan ahead and pack for the hospital. 

Predictions

As I round out this last part of my pregnancy, I have a few predictions. I could be completely wrong, of course, and my reasoning is absolutely non-scientific, but I figure I should document them just in case I'm right.


Date of Birth: June 7.
I've said all along that I thought he'd come close to his due date. Last week, the milk we picked up had the expiration date of June 7, so I decided it was a sign. This week, the milk expires on June 12, so I'm willing to expand that to a span of June 7-12.

Time of Birth: The 3 or 4 o'clock hour
Nick, Jr, always gets me up during either the 3AM or 4AM hour. I'm not sure if he'll come in the early morning or afternoon,  but I think it'll be sometime in that time frame.

Type of Labor: Slow, then suddenly fast and furious
I think Nick, Jr, has a mind like me-when he decides to do something, he wants to get it done. I think my body will take a bit of time to convince him eviction is eminent, but once he's ready to go, he'll get the heck out. Or maybe that's just wishful thinking.

And, because I'm currently obsessed, here's this week's stats:

Week 39

In general, it was a rough week. I've gone back and forth with extreme energy and extreme exhaustion. We found out Nick is being transferred to a new school, which we have mixed feelings on, but once we realized is current job is being cut to part time, we do feel better. Additionally, we got a little more wok on the house done. Nick painted the downstairs wall, but the color doesn't match. The plumber came, and while he made progress, things aren't quite finished yet. And Nick was in a minor accident on Friday, which may have caused one major damage to his car. We're waiting to find out more. It's definitely been a roller coaster week. 

How far along? 39 weeks

How big is baby? Pretty much as big as he can be. A mini watermelon, anywhere from 6-10 lbs, and 19-21 inches. 

Total weight gain/loss: +1lb at the Dr on Thursday. 

Maternity clothes? I hate clothes. I have a few staples I am wearing, some maternity, some not. I wore a beach over up/sundress the past to nights and actually felt cute. 

Sleep: I've been pretty tired this week, although about every third morning (Wednesday and Saturday) I've been up ridiculously early. The actual sleep is OK though. I'm usually up during the 4AM hour, which makes me think he'll come around tat time. 

Best moment this week: Waking up Tuesday AM, and despite Nick having to go to work, I didn't!

Movement: Pretty active. Wednesday he did go through a quiet phase, but made up for it Thursday. 

Food Cravings: None. 

Food Aversions: Bananas. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: Some inconsistent contractions. As of Thursday, still no change in dilation. Contractions (and back pain) increase while I'm up and active, but disappear when I sit down. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: Swollen feet. They improved, and then got worse. My lady parts are also incredibly swollen. 

Belly Button in or out? In! I can do this-I can keep an innie the entire time!

What I miss: People not wanting to know the status of my cervix. It's very awkward. Additionally, if I could go back in time, I probably wouldn't have gotten any internal exams till this week. Ignorance is bliss, especially on something that could change so quickly. And it would really irritate them if I had no clue as to my status, too. 

What I am looking forward to: Finally not being pregnant. 

Upcoming appointments/events: Next appointment is Wednesday. I'm sure I'll be there, and not in the hospital. We also already have our 40 week appointment set up for Monday, June 10 at 10:30AM. 

Milestones: I guess the next major milestone will be either making it to my due date, or surviving labor. I'd really like this baby to come on this week. 

Sadly enough, it took 5 pictures to get this good of an expression. It was just not happening today.

I feel huge and low. Please let this be the week.

Couch vs. Bed

I hate the moment where you're trying to decide, "Do I keep laying in bed and see if I can get back to sleep, or do I head on down to the couch? Once I make it to the couch, is it back to sleep or try to be productive?" 

Right now, couch sleep is sounding good. 

Maternity Leave-Day 1

The magical day is here...the day when the hubs had to get up and go to work and I didn't. I was so excited...and then the day started. 

My plan was to take Velma to the vet for her annual exam/vaccinations bright and early at 7:30, then or home and finish grading 47 3-5 page research papers. From there I had a few errands I wanted to run and then relax around the house. Velma and I got up, got ready to go, and the car wouldn't start. Mt only that, but my key wouldn't come out. Nick tried to jump it to no avail, and while we got the key out, the ignition switch wouldn't turn to the off position. Joy. 

Vet appointment cancelled. I came on in and got started on grading the papers, hoping to get on through them. 3 hours later, I was done, stir crazy and lacked motivation to do anything else. And while I did get a few things done, I sent the day being bored, yet unmotivated. And every time I thought, "I should go do X," I'd remember I was trapped at home. And every twinge made me wonder if labor was in sight. (In case you were wondering,it wasn't.)

It was so frustrating! After being so slammed for the last month, and nothing I had to do, along with no where to go, it was bizarre to do nothing and watch "Will and Grace" reruns. Hopefully tomorrow will be better. The agenda: Vet try #2, bake cookies, and teach at the studio. That should make the day go by faster. But...I'm willing to rearrange my plans if Nick, Jr, wants to come early!

Week 38

How far along? 38 weeks.

How big is baby? Between 6 and 9 lbs and 19-21 inches, a pumpkin or the length of a leek. 

Total weight gain/loss: While I was down last week, I was up about 5 this week. I think a lot of that is luid, even how my feet and ankles have swollen up this week. 

Maternity clothes? Primarily. I had someone in Target last night ask me if I was wearing a BellaBand. I replied, "Not tonight, but I have one." We had a pleasant little chat about it.

Sleep: Ok. I still only wake up about once to go to the bathroom, and waking up brutally early with the dogs.

Best moment this week:Ummm...another week of several. 

1) Maternity leave officially started on Friday afternoon! I have about 40 research papers to finish grading, but otherwise I'm freeeeeeee.


2) The nursery is completely done. See yesterday's post. :-)


3) The new wall enclosing the loft is finished, just needs to be painted. We got the house cleaned up  from the sanding, and Dad pressure washed the house.
 
Movement: A lot.

Food Cravings: None. And my appetite has decreased.

Food Aversions: Bananas. I feel like a broken record.

Gender: Boy.

Labor Signs: I've had a few contractions this week. I feel like my body is getting ready, but it still has a ways to go.  

Pregnancy Symptoms: This week my feet have taken to swelling up-a lot. It's not painful, but I'm glad I can get away with wearing nothing but flip flops. 

See? Not pretty. 

Belly Button in or out?In, but tight.

What I miss: Not having to stop while cleaning because my back hurts or I'm exhausted.

What I am looking forward to: I'm starting to feel some trepidation about labor. And life with baby. I'm getting really nervous. I'm ready to have this baby, but at the same time, I'm afraid of how I'll handle labor and delivery. I'm also scared I'm going to screw up this child. It's a huge responsibility, which I've always known, but I'm kinda freaking out over it right now.

Upcoming appointments/events: Next appointment is Thursday.

Milestones: I'd say the nursery being complete is a pretty big one. 

Week 37

How far along? 37 weeks. 

How big is baby? A winter melon or a stalk of Swiss chard, 19-21 inches long and anywhere from 6-9 pounds. 

Total weight gain/loss: At the Dr last week I was down 1lb. 

Maternity clothes? Nothing fits! I hate clothes right-I just feel like a cow, which is frustrating because I don't think my belly looks huge, but the rest of me is ginormous. I did get a jersey midi skirt to get me through these last few weeks and the summer, although I secretly hope It gets too big really quickly this summer. 

Sleep: Decent, except Saturday night I was up from 3AM until 6AM. it really sucked because I was so exhausted. I'm trying to figure out how to sleep more comfortably-my bag is awfully stiff when I wake up. 

Best moment this week: Ooh, how to choose....there were a lot. 
1) Secured daycare for the next year!

2) Breast Pump ordered through insurance and should arrive in th next week or so!

3) Maternity pictures with Beth! We met at a local beach to do these, with plans of eating dinner at the pub before hand. While we were eating, the wind picked up and it looked like a nasty storm was brewing. We were afraid we weren't going to get the pictures done, which would really suck, as we wanted to do them last week and had to reschedule. At any rate, the weather cleared up after dinner (and the beach majorly cleared out), and we got some amazing pictures done. Here are a few, and you can see more on Beth's blog. 

4) Fluff mail! Abby's Lane had 15% off Thirsties products for Mother's Day, so I took advantage. 1white diaper cover to go under outfits you might see a cover through, a size 2 All In One Diaper in Polka Dance (we know I love polka dots!) and a size 2 Duo Diaper in Cool Stripes, a pattern I had been looking for.

5) Cute clearance baby clothes. I can't stand how cute this outfit will come September/early fall. I picked it up while birthday shopping for my niece at Toys R Us. It doesn't hurt that it was originally $37 for the outfit, and I got it for $16, plus earned another $10 gift card. 

6) Performing in Bayside Youth Ballet's 20th Anniversary Gala. I have been so excited about doing this show-I even considered putting off trying for Nick, Jr, for a while so I could be sure I could participate. (Obviously, I worked it out to have my cake and eat it, too.) Everyone was worried I'd pop this kid out on stage, but nick, Jr, and I had several serious discussions that he could do whatever he wanted after 10PM Saturday night, but until then, he had to behave. I like to think he listened, even if he play a bit of a prank (see below). 

Movement: Pretty active, although I had a small scare on Wednesday night. I was stepping down as someone was coming around the corner. In our efforts to miss each other, I ended falling on my tush on the floor. I was pretty sore for the next day or so, and Nick, Jr, was not so active. He did move around Wednesday night, just not as much as he had. By Thursday evening, he was back to his old antics, so I didn't worry too much. 

Food Cravings: Chocolate, but that might not ave anything to do with pregnancy. 

Food Aversions: I won't even think about trying bananas. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: I can feel he's getting lower, and I'm certainly more uncomfortable. Gas has been bad, too, and uncontrollable. I feel like he is is pressing down on things and letting out some toots without my knowledge or permission. My appetitite has changed-I'm not nearly so ravenous any more. My stomach has been a bit queasy-not really sick feeling, just off-and my stools have hotten a lot softer. (Lovely thoughts, right?) At my appointment on Monday, I was thinning and maaaaaaaaaybe one 1cm dilated, so things are progressing, but nowhere near eminent. I *think* I may have had one random contraction on Wednesday in class. 

We did have a bit of excitement yesterday...we were taking advantage of some downtime by...enjoying each other's company upstairs. When I got up, the sheets beneath me were soaked. Way more than sweat or any other liquid that typically comes from that type of activity. As I stood up, I felt this horrible cramping pain, which may have a contraction. I got in the shower and started wondering if that puddle could be my water breaking. I didn't think so, but it was a lot of something. Nick said he felt something "squirt." When I got out, I consulted a friend, who recommended I go ahead and call the on-call doctor. Long story short, we ended up at Labor and Delivery. Everything looked good-no contractions (although I could have had one random one)-and my water did not break. Could have been sweat, discharge, urine, or any combination. I felt silly going in, but with the performance tonight, I do believe it was the right choice. More importantly, I think this gave Nick an, "Oh crap, this is real moment," and heled him see what we need to get done in the next few weeks. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: Except for feeling huge, nothing of note. My feet are a bit crampy this morning, and I woke up Friday night with horrible cramps in my thighs. My body temperature has also increased this week-I am always so hot!

Belly Button in or out? In. Maybe it really will stay that way. 

What I miss: Not having people question whether or not I feel like doing something or should be doing something. I appreciate the concern, but it can be frustrating. 

What I am looking forward to: Last day of work is Friday! I can't believe I'm so close! Of course, I have a ridiculous amount of work to do between now and then...lets hope I an make it through the week and get everything finished up. 

Also, our house is a wreck right now. We're (finally) getting the drywall finished, but things are in disarray right now as it all it getting finished. Hopefully, we'll be able to paint next weekend and get it all done. My new goal is to have my house back to normal by June 1. Sounds reasonable, right?

Upcoming appointments/events: Next weekly visit is Wednesday at 3:25PM (weird time, huh?). Hopefully this will be more efficient than the last. 

Milestones: 37 weeks= term. If Nick, Jr, were to come today, he shouldn't need any additional medical help. Of course, I would prefer for him to at least wait until next weekend and let me finish up school, but it's amazing to believe we've made it this far already. 

Week 36

Happy Mother's Day!

It's a little weird-a lot of people at wok wished me a happy Mother's Day...in my mind, though, I'm not really a mother. I'm close, but not quite there yet. Nick did get me an orchid for Mother's Day; of course, he gave it to me while I was having a conversation with a pregnant fend about how I feel awkward celebrating it right now. I felt like an ass, but it's also different from him. It's much more personal, and I really appreciate his thoughtfulness. 

How far along? 36 weeks. 

How big is baby? A honeydew or crenshaw melon, 17-18.5 inches and 4.2-5.8 pounds.

Total weight gain/loss: In three weeks, I gained 6lbs per the dr's scales on Thursday. 

Maternity clothes? Once again, some...I wore a strapless maxi dress (with a cardigan) Friday night that I bought 6 years ago for Rachel's wedding. It looked great. That dress was the best investment-I've Ron it heavier, thinner, and now 8 months pregnant!

Sleep: Some nights are good, some suck. I've been really achy when I wake up, too. 

Best moment this week: Baby shower number3! Tarra and Allison threw an awesome shower at work for me. 

My classes at school also threw some parties this week they called them baby showers, but there weren't really any gifts (I discouraged it). A few kids did bring in some cute things, and I'm so impressed with their thoughtfulness. Two students also brought a gift for a student who is due in August. They crammed a diaper bag full of bottles, pacifiers, and clothes. 

I received several gift cards at the shower, and I've been milking Babies R Us's current promotion: spend $40 in store, get a $10 gift card back. It's valid at Toys R Us, too, so I've gone to both and attempted to spend right at $40, as well as use a 20% off coupon, and then get the gift card. I ended up with $40 in gift cards, then I used my registry completion coupon tonight, and ended up getting another $10 back. Considering I still need to go birthday shopping for my niece, it will come in handy. (And if it doesn't, it's not like I'll never need to go back to BRU/TRU again.) 

Movement: He likes his personal space. The other night Nick put his head on my tummy, and the little booger scooted away. As soon as Nick moved his head, he swam back over. We also found out in rehearsal today baby that, based on his movement, he likes Harry Connick, Jr, Hairspray, Chopin, and Copeland. Pretty diverse (and good taste), if you ask me. 

Food Cravings: None in particular this week. 

Food Aversions: Bananas. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: None yet. Dr said at my appointment Wednesday no dilation yet, but my cervix is starting to thin. Right on schedule-nothing too early or late. I just need to get through the next week and I'll be ready to go whenever. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: Gas. It's been horrendous this week. Nesting in the form of organization and shopping, not so much cleaning. I also found out one of my previously assumed symptoms was actually a result of pregnancy brain. My eyesight had not gotten that bad-I was wearing Nick's prescription of contacts for the last 4 months. Oops. 

Belly Button in or out? Still in.

What I miss: Not feeling like there is an alien in my stomach. 

What I am looking forward to: Finishing up home projects. After my brother in law walled in the loft, we've struggled with finding someone to finish the mudding. Tarra and her husband Sam got a layer of mud done today. He needs to sand and do another layer or two of mud, so hopefully it'll be finished by the time I go out on maternity leave. Nick also has a friend that is working on our bath tub. Now to get some yard work done....

Upcoming appointments/events: We're up to weekly appointments-next one is tomorrow. 

Milestones: Hospital bag is packed. Nursery is done. Time to install the car seat. Breast pump paperwork is ready to be submitted for insurance, FMLA paperwork/long term sub set up or school, and registration paper work just needs to mailed to the hospital. 

Just for fun, I took this little quiz. We'll see if Nick, Jr holds true to it or not! Chances look good for right around my due date!

Baby Shower #3

I am extremely lucky to have a wonderful group of people I work with, some of which are very close friends. Tarra, an art teacher, and Allison, a drama teacher, put together this awesome shower after school on Thursday. It was real casual-food and socializing only-just how I like things! Tarra made all the decorations herself-she went way above and beyond. 

I was truly blessed by all the gifts we received-lots of clothes, books, and feeding accessories. The music department went in together and got our high chair, amongst some other items, and another group went in on the Step and Play Piano. It was such a beautiful and perfect afternoon, and I'm so glad I was able to share with everyone who came. 

Week 35

How far along? 35 weeks down, 35 days to go!

How big is baby? A Coconut or Honeydew Melon...about 18 inches long and around 5 lbs. 

Total weight gain/loss: Why do I even keep this question on here?

Maternity clothes? Same old same old, some yes, some no. I'm really thankful I saved some of my clothes from losing weight. I am able to wear my 10 year reunion dress for a costume in 2 weeks. 

Sleep: Fairly decent. I typically only wake up once to pee, and it's the best pee ever. I actually feel like my bladder gets completely emptied. 

Best moment this week: Explaining cloth diapers to one of my classes. They asked what brand of diapers I was going to use, so I told them we were using cloth, which many of them found appalling. I have to bring in some samples next week to show them. 

And....I won, I won! I was lucky enough to receive a "Baby Registry" Gift from Maria at Change-Diapers. I enjoy reading her posts, and when I entered our formation in the registry, I figured it was an awesome idea, but I wouldn't be one of the lucky ones. Well, I was! I got an email on Weenesday saying I had been selected, and yesterday a Dry-Line Bamboo fitted, Geffen Wipe, and a birthday cake scented Change-Diapers Pen.(I kinda want to eat it.) Thans, Maria for your generosity!

Movement: There have been a few times I've actually jumped in discomfort this week from his movement. And the hiccups ave significantly increased. 

Food Cravings: I love soup. 

Food Aversions: Bananas. 

Gender: Boy. 

Labor Signs: I had someone tell me I looked like I was starting to drop. Nick asked if that meant the baby was coming soon-I told him it meant he was getting ready, but he could be getting ready for the next 6 weeks or so. 

Pregnancy Symptoms: Gas-it's been bad this week. Also, I'm not sure how much is my schedule and how much is pregnancy, but I've been exhausted lately. 

Belly Button in or out? In. Thus far, I consider this a small victory. 

What I miss: Margaritas. Cinco de Mayo doesn't taste as good without tequila. 

What I am looking forward to: Maternity Leave. I start May 24. As much as I want baby to come a bit early, I really hope I can take a few days there to just sleep. 

Upcoming appointments/events: Had to move last week's appointment to this week. This week I have a work baby shower, and several of my classes are having parties in class.  I'm kinda hoping to go to the Birth and Beyond Expo next Saturday in VA Beach. 

Milestones: 35/35! Seems so close, and yet so much is going on, I feel like I'll never get there. 

Yeah...I think I have dropped a little this week...

Stash update

It's official-I have succumbed to my cloth diapering addiction. It's bad...but I think I'm done. There is nothing else I really need-or even want for that matter. I'm sure that will change once he gets here and I start using what I've got, but for now, we're good.

As I mentioned before, I was fortunate to gets lots of cloth diapering items at my showers. Last weekend, mom and I attended the Great Diaper Challenge at Diaper Junction, where the entire store was 15% off. That resulted in a 2 Kissaluvs Newborn Fitteds, 2 Thirsties Duo Fab Fitteds, 6 more Diaper Rite small prefolds, and CJs BUTTer diaper cream. When I got home, I realized my Fab Fitteds were size 2, not the size 1s I wanted. I debated exchanging them, but I know I'll need them later, so...I checked the Thirsties Outlet. When I've looked before, very little was in stock, but this time I hit the jackpot. I ordered 2 Fab Fitteds in size 1, one Duo Diaper (size 2), and one all in one, both in my absolute favorite print-Scottish Storm. I was content.

I was also pleased to get home last Saturday to a surprise baby gift from my friend Jackie-a bag of Rockin' Green Detergent and a BumGenius Freetime in Albert! So awesome and thoughtful of her.

Then, Tuesday night Cotton Babies announced their Seconds Sale. I quickly jumped on that and got 1 BG 4.0 (grasshopper), 1 Original Elemental (twilight), and 1 Freetime (white).

Finally, I had to order some supplies on Amazon to finish up a diaper cake, and while I love the Thirsties Scottish Storm print, I was kind of sad I was missing the other print I love-Blackbird. And, I reasoned, it would be nice to try either one of their pockets or all-in-ones for size 1. Somehow, a Thirsties Duo All-In-One in size 1 made into my cart. Eek!

So right now, my stash consists of...


Current Newborn stash
12 Diaper Rite Newborn Prefolds
12 GMD Newborn (Orange edge) Prefolds
24 Diaper Rite Small Prefolds
3 Fitted Diaper Rite Snapless Fitteds size Small
2 Kissaluvs Newborn Fitteds
2 Thirsties Duo Fab fitteds Sz 1 (Honeydew)
2 Thirsties Duo Wraps Sz 1 (Hoot and Scottish Storm)
3 Thirsties Cover Sz XSmall (Baby Bluebird, Celery, and Orange)
1 Bummis Super Snap Cover Sz Newborn (Celery Dot)
2 itti bitti d'lish pockets Sz small (Red and Rockmelon)
1 Thirsties Duo Snap Size 1 (Blackbird)
2 Kawaii Pure and Naturals (Light Blue and Pure White)
1 New Improved Little Green Baby Bamboo (Pistachio Stripes)

One Size Stash
3 Flip Covers (Noodle, Sweet and Twilight)
2 Kawaii Covers (Yellow and Dark Blue)
12 Diaper Rite Medium Prefolds
12 OsoCozy Size 2 Prefolds
2 Thirsties Duo Fab Fitted size 2 (White and Meadow)
2 Charlie Banana Pocket (Orbit and Green)
3 BumGenius 4.0 Pockets (Grasshopper, Clementine, and Lovelace)
2 Rumparooz G2 Pocket (Ladder 6 and White)
2 Kawaii New Improved Square Tab Pockets ( Pastel Yellow and Navy Blue)
1 Thirsties duo Diaper Size 2 (Scottish Storm)
1 Thirsties all in one Size 2 (Scottish Storm)
2 BumGenius Elemental (old Style) (Twilight and Moonbeam)
2 BumGenius Freetime (Albert and White)
2 Kawaii Good Night Heavy Wetters (Lime Dotty and Blue Dotty)

For now...this is how still I've got everything organized. I'm not foolish enough to think this will change.

All my newborn pockets, AIOs, and fitteds, as well as covers and cloth wipes on on the right. 

Changing accessories: Snappis, Burt's Bees Lotion, CJs BUTTer, samples of Butt Paster (only for use with disposables) and the spray bottle will have my solution for wipes. Oh yeah, a regifted peepee cover. 

A few disposables...left over from the diaper cake. 

Top Drawers: Newborn Prefolds (left) and Small Prefolds (right)

Sleepers (right) and OS pockets, AIOs, and fitteds (left)

Size 2 OsoCozy Prefolds and OS Covers and Medium Diaper Rite Prefolds and additional inserts (right)