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Thirty-Six Weeks & Counting – The 411

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Two heads of romaine lettuce with dark background

How my baby’s growing

Your baby is still packing on the pounds – at the rate of about an ounce a day. She now weighs almost 6 pounds and is more than 18 1/2 inches long (about the length of a head of romaine lettuce). She’s shedding most of the downy covering of hair that covered her body, as well as the vernix caseosa, the waxy substance that covered and protected her skin during her nine-month amniotic bath. Your baby swallows both of these substances, along with other secretions, resulting in a blackish mixture called meconium that will form the contents of her first bowel movements.

At the end of this week, your baby will be considered “early term.” (Full term is 39 to 40 weeks. Babies born before 37 weeks are preterm, 41 weeks is late term, and those born after 42 are post-term.) Most likely your baby is already head-down. But if not, your doctor or midwife may suggest scheduling an external cephalic version. That’s a fancy way of saying that your healthcare provider will apply pressure to your abdomen to try to manipulate your baby into a head-down position.

How Mommy’s life’s changing

Now that your baby is taking up so much room, you may have trouble eating a normal-size meal. Smaller, more frequent meals are often easier to handle at this point. On the other hand, you may have less heartburn and have an easier time breathing when your baby starts to “drop” down into your pelvis. This process – called lightening – often happens a few weeks before labor if this is your first baby. (If you’ve given birth before, it probably won’t happen before labor starts.) If your baby drops, you may also feel increased pressure in your lower abdomen, which may make walking increasingly uncomfortable, and you’ll probably find that you have to pee even more frequently. If your baby is very low, you may feel lots of vaginal pressure and discomfort as well. Some women say it feels as though they’re carrying a bowling ball between their legs!

You might also notice that your Braxton Hicks contractions are more frequent now. Be sure to review the signs of labor with your doctor or midwife and find out when she wants to hear from you. As a general rule, if you’re full-term, your pregnancy is uncomplicated, and your water hasn’t broken, she’ll probably have you wait to come in until you’ve been having contractions that last for about a minute each, coming every five minutes for an hour. Of course, you’ll want to call right away if you notice a decrease in your baby’s activity or think you’re leaking amniotic fluid, or if you have any vaginal bleeding, fever, a severe or persistent headache, constant abdominal pain, or vision changes.

Even if you’re enjoying an uncomplicated pregnancy, it’s best to avoid flying (or any travel far from home) during your final month because you can go into labor at any time. In fact, some airlines won’t let women on board who are due to deliver within 30 days of the flight.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

36 weeks !

How Big Is The Little One?

The baby is the size of a head of romaine lettuce or a spaghetti squash.

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

Eeeeek !   I gained TEN pounds of fluid weight since my hospitalization last week !  I freaked OUT !    That is a total weight gain of 23 pounds !  I had only gained 13 pounds until last week.   I lost 27 pounds my first trimester so I am still under the weight I started at but I do NOT like this weight gain AT ALL !  I am certain that it will fall off after I deliver the baby and also with breast feeding.

Maternity Clothes?

I spend most of my day in either pjs or a body con dress.  I have absolutely NO desire to do anything but shower and put on fresh pjs since I can not really leave the house due to bed rest.  I have gone out a few times to pick up breakfast and just put a dress on on top of my pjs.

Sleep?

Because I am tending to my mom at night, I am not sleeping well.  I wake up because she is talking out of her head , she gets up, or if it is time for her medications.  I have been napping during the day somewhat. My baby is pretty active around 1 am too.

Best Moment of the Week?

I have had a pretty boring week !  My mom had surgery on Friday and I am on total bed rest so I have pretty much been on the sofa or in the bed watching tv, drinking fluids and chilling. I have a biophysical exam and sono in the morning in NYC.  I see the OB after that.  My OB is in Greece until Sunday so I am praying my baby does not try to come out before he is back !  I do the second hospital tour on Sunday in preparation for the birth.  I just pray they do not try to keep me after my appt tomorrow !  I am NOT ready and my mother can not travel four hours to NYC right now. She has her post op appointment tomorrow and gets her drains out.  There is very little drainage now, which is good.

Symptoms?

My legs and feet are so swollen that I look like Miss Piggy !  My toes in the left foot are numb most of the time.  I have an external hemorrhoid that has not gone down. My baby feels super heavy and I am having sharp pains shooting down into the vaginal area and I have problems getting comfy.  I have a definitive waddle when I walk and walking has become uncomfortable due to pressure.  I try to stay on the sofa with my feet up.

Food Cravings?

I have no cravings and really no appetite.  I have more room now for food now that the baby has dropped down a bit but I still am not hungry most of the time.  I have random periods where I am starving.  I will start to eat and get uber full quickly, thus I had eating out !

Food Aversions?

I just have no desire for food at all right now.  I am sitting here drinking lemonade and a protein shake.  I will likely eat apple cinnamon oatmeal for an afternoon snack.

Gender?

baby girl !

Labor Signs?

I hope not !  I have a lot of pressure, but that is just a 5 – 6 pound baby and tons of fluid.  I had contractions in the hospital after the transvaginal exam and a cervix check and I can say without a doubt, SHOOT ME !  Do NOT let me have ANY contractions at all.  That ish is for the BIRDS !

What I Miss?

Having normal size legs and feet !

What I Am Looking Forward To?

Giving birth to a healthy baby girl in short while !   The doctors have scheduled me cesarean and I am just hoping this baby stays put until then.  They have moved our time table up a whole two weeks ! EEEEEEEEk !

Bump?

I have a low basketball !

Navel In/Out?

In

Baby / Mommy Purchases?

The only think I bought this week other than receiving the Milk Snob car seat cover, was a foot bath and Dr. Teal’s foot soak with lavender.  I am sending my sister out to get the baby a preemie outfit to wear home in the event that she is as small as they say she is and her other clothing will not fit.

Thirty Five Weeks – The 411

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Whole honeydew melon with stem in green bowl on green table

How my baby’s growing

The baby doesn’t have much room to maneuver now that she’s over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds (about the size of a honeydew melon). Because it’s so snug in your womb, she isn’t likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of times she kicks should remain about the same. Her kidneys are fully developed now, and her liver can process some waste products. Most of her basic physical development is now complete. She’ll spend the next few weeks putting on weight.

How Mommy’s life’s changing

Your uterus – which was entirely tucked away inside your pelvis when you conceived – now reaches up under your rib cage. If you could peek inside your womb, you’d see that there’s more baby than amniotic fluid in there now. Your ballooning uterus is crowding your other internal organs, too, which is why you probably have to pee more often and may be dealing with heartburn and other gastrointestinal distress. If you’re not grappling with these annoyances, you’re one of the lucky few.

From here on out, you’ll start seeing your doctor or midwife every week. Sometime between now and 37 weeks, she’ll do a vaginal and rectal culture to check for bacterium called group B streptococcum (GBS). (Don’t worry – the swab is the size of a regular cotton swab, and it won’t hurt.) GBS is usually harmless in adults, but if you have it and pass it on to your baby during birth, it can cause serious complications, such as pneumonia, meningitis, or a blood infection. Because 10 to 30 percent of pregnant women have the bacteria and don’t know it, it’s vital to be screened. (The bacteria come and go on their own – that’s why you weren’t screened earlier in pregnancy.) If you’re a GBS carrier, you’ll get IV antibiotics during labor, which will greatly reduce your baby’s risk of infection.

This is also a good time to create a birth plan. Using our form will help you focus on specifics – like who’ll be present, what pain management techniques you want to try, and where you want your baby to stay after you deliver. It will give you a starting point to discuss your preferences with your medical team. Childbirth is unpredictable, and chances are you won’t follow your plan to the letter, but thinking about your choices ahead of time – and sharing your preferences with your doctor or midwife – should take some of the anxiety out of the process.

Learn about: Arriving at the hospital

How can I prepare for my arrival at the hospital?

Long before you go into labor, you and your partner should map out the most direct route to the hospital or birth center. Find out where to park, keeping in mind that you’ll be leaving your car for at least 24 hours. Ask the hospital staff where you should enter if you arrive after-hours. Most hospitals offer tours of the obstetrical floor at designated times. Taking advantage of these tours will give you a chance to do a dry run before the big day.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

35 weeks !

How Big Is The Little One?

My baby is the size of a honeydew melon and she weighs 4lb 3 oz

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

Although I lost 27 pounds my first trimester, I have only gained a total of 13 pounds. Since I was in the hospital for two days and given 3-4 bags of fluids, I can not do an accurate weight reading this week.

Maternity Clothes?

I am wearing the same maternity clothing:  jeans, capris, oversized tees, maternity tees, body con dresses, sundresses, and a few of my baggy dresses from pre-pregnancy.

Sleep?

I have been sleeping well.  It was hard to sleep the two days I was in the hospital because of the monitors and the unfamiliar noises.

Best Moment of the Week?

The best moment I had this week was the relief of knowing the bleeding was not an issue of my baby and that the baby and I both were fine and also hearing of the excitement of the little gifts I sent to my sister-friend’s children.  One child has been sick and the older toddler helped to care for the other.  I was so tickled to hear how much they enjoyed the little tokens.   Now I am gearing up for my mother’s reconstructive surgery tomorrow.  She will be in the hospital for a few days.  I am just praying all remains stable with me and my little munchkin and that my mom’s surgery goes smoothly.

Symptoms?

I have an external hemorrhoid which has not gone back down.  Some mornings, I awake a bit queasy and my skin is often overly sensitive and itchy. I take children’s liquid Benedryl and it helps tremendously.  This week, I seem to be burping a lot.

Food Cravings?

I still have no appetite so I do not crave anything in particular.

Food Aversions?

None

Gender?

Girl !,

Labor Signs?

I experienced contractions after a vaginal exam in the hospital.  They discovered that I was very dehydrated and after 2 bags of fluids, the contractions stopped.

What I Miss?

Nothing at the moment except being at the beach.

What I Am Looking Forward To?

Seeing my baby and holding her.

Bump?

My little soccer ball is still nice and round.

Navel In/Out?

In

Baby Purchases?

This week, my baby’s 4Moms Breeze Play yard in Grey arrived at Target.  I had giftcards from my shower and Sunday was Run Target day with 10% off, coupled with my 15% off completion coupon, I ordered the play yard so that I could maximize the discounts on the $300 large ticket item. I ended up getting $90 off ! I also ordered a Milk Snob carseat cover to match the baby’s Kate Spade baby bag.

Thirty Four Weeks – The 411

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Whole cantaloupe with green stem on table

How my baby’s growing

The baby now weighs about 5 pounds (about the size of a cantaloupe) and is almost 18 inches long. Her fat layers – which will help regulate her body temperature once she’s born – are filling her out, making her rounder. Her skin is also smoother than ever. Her central nervous system is maturing, and her lungs are continuing to mature as well. If you’ve been nervous about preterm labor, you’ll be happy to know that babies born between 34 and 37 weeks who have no other health problems generally do fine. They may need a short stay in the neonatal nursery and may have a few short-term health issues, but in the long run, they usually do as well as full-term babies.

And from this week, until two weeks before birth, she will continue to gain about a half-pound of weight each week. Unlike the first trimester, the weight between all babies in the third trimester is much more variable. Some babies weigh more and are taller; other babies weigh less and are shorter.

Also unlike the first trimester, by week 34, not much is changing. The baby continues gaining weight through the development of subcutaneous fat, and with that weight, is probably gaining strength in her movements. You may even be startled by a sudden jab to the ribs, or be able to see a punch to your belly from the outside!

How Mommy’s life’s changing

By this week, fatigue has probably set in again, though maybe not with the same coma-like intensity of your first trimester. Your tiredness is perfectly understandable, given the physical strain you’re under and the restless nights of frequent pee breaks and tossing and turning while trying to get comfortable.

Now’s the time to slow down and save up your energy for labor day (and beyond). If you’ve been sitting or lying down for a long time, don’t jump up too quickly. Blood can pool in your feet and legs, causing a temporary drop in your blood pressure when you get up that can make you feel dizzy.

If you notice itchy red bumps or welts on your belly, and possibly your thighs and buttocks as well, you may have a condition called pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP for short).

Up to 1 percent of pregnant women develop PUPPP, which is harmless but can be quite uncomfortable. See your healthcare provider so she can make sure it’s not a more serious problem, provide treatment to make you more comfortable, and refer you to a dermatologist if necessary. Also be sure to call her if you feel intense itchiness all over your body, even if you don’t have a rash. It could signal a liver problem.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

34 weeks !

How Big Is The Little One?

My little one now weighs in at 4 pounds 1 ounce

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

To my surprise, I got on the scale this morning after my shower and I have gained a total of five pounds this week !   I am up 13 pounds !!!!   WTH?  I think a few of these pounds are the swelling I have from hip to CANKLE ! After walking around NYC yesterday plus the 4 hour trip up there and back for my appointments, I was extremely swollen in my legs, calves, thighs, and ankles. (cankles !)  My feet look like they belong to Miss Piggy !

Maternity Clothes?

I am pretty sure my round belly will NOT fit into my normal clothing.  I have worn maternity jeans, capris and baggy tees all week.  My running tights are uncomfortable now.

Sleep?

I sleep pretty well and try to stay on my left side.  My baby HATES when I lie on my back.

Best Moment of the Week?

My best moments this week was (1) getting more awesome gifts in honor of my baby girl and hearing her heartbeat at my MFM appointment yesterday.  My placenta previa has resolved itself and the baby is growing and everything looks awesome.  After my ultrasounds, the doctor put me on the monitor for 20 mins and my mom and I sat there and listened to that perfect little heartbeat.  Now we are preparing for my mom’s reconstructive surgery next week.  I just hope she heals quickly with no complications since we are very close to my delivery date. I really do not want to have to hire a full time nurse to help me with the baby.

Symptoms?

I am experiencing an external hemorrhoid ! It is NO fun !  Luckily it doesn’t hurt nor does it burn.  The problem is, I can feel it and it makes for an uncomfy to sit down.  I read that it it best to lie on your side and avoid sitting and standing for long periods.  I stood around for almost 2 hours yesterday waiting until we could leave for Union Station from NY.  Luckily we were able to take an earlier trip instead of having to wait until 2 pm.

Food Cravings?

I still have no appetite !  I am trying to focus on protein right now since my protein levels were low when they did my blood draw two weeks ago.

Food Aversions?

Thank goodness my aversions are gone !

Gender?

Baby Girl !

Labor Signs?

None

What I Miss?

My legs and feet not swelling up every time I travel or do a lot of walking.

What I Am Looking Forward To?

Our HD Live / 4D Ultrasound this week and seeing this little face up close and personal !

Bump?

I have a nice little round soccer ball that measures 36 weeks.

Navel In/Out?

In

Baby  / Mommy Purchases?

I have not made any purchases, however we got some amazing gifts in the mail this week.  We received a Medela Shoulder Bag for the Pump In Style Dual Electric Breast Pump, a gorgeous dress from St. Barth, France from my Godmother, Bree, A Kinde Bottle/Breast Milk warmer, and a baby jungle gym.

Thirty-Three Weeks – The 411

By

Two pineapples in wicker basket on table

How my baby’s growing

This week your baby weighs about 5 pounds and has passed the 17-inch mark (about the size of a pineapple). She’s rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look, and her skeleton is hardening. The bones in her skull aren’t fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for her to fit through the birth canal. (The pressure on the head during birth is so intense that many babies are born with a cone-head–like appearance.) These bones don’t entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as her brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.

How mommy’s life’s changing

As your baby fills out even more of your belly, lots of things might start to change: Whereas before you were sashaying, you may find yourself waddling. Finding an easy position to sit in – let alone sleep – is becoming more of a challenge. And bumping into chairs and counters is par for the course.

You may be feeling some achiness and even numbness in your fingers, wrists, and hands. Like many other tissues in your body, those in your wrist can retain fluid, which can increase pressure in the carpal tunnel, a bony canal in your wrist.

Nerves that run through this “tunnel” may end up pinched, creating numbness; tingling, shooting or burning pain; or a dull ache. Try wearing a splint to stabilize your wrist or propping up your arm with a pillow when you sleep. If your work requires repetitive hand movements (at a keyboard or on an assembly line, for instance), remember to stretch your hands when you take breaks – which should be frequently.

Many women still feel sexy at this stage – and their partners often agree. You may need to make some adjustments, but for most women, sex during pregnancy is fine right up until their water breaks or their labor starts.

Learn about: Monitoring your baby’s movements

How often should I feel movements?

Your baby should be moving as frequently as she has for the last month or so. Every baby has her own pattern of activity and there’s no correct one. As long as you don’t notice any major changes in your baby’s activity level, chances are she’s doing just fine.

Do I need to keep track of my baby’s kicks?

For an added sense of security, many healthcare providers recommend that after 28 weeks, you formally monitor your baby’s movements at least once or twice a day. There are lots of different ways to do these “kick counts,” so check with your doctor or midwife about how she wants you to track your baby’s movements. Here’s one common approach: Choose a time of day when your baby tends to be active. (Ideally, you’ll want to do the counts at roughly the same time each day.) Sit quietly or lie on your side so you won’t get distracted. Time how long it takes for you to feel 10 distinct movements – kicks, twitches, and whole body movements all count. You should feel at least 10 movements within two hours. (Don’t worry; it probably won’t take that long. Sometimes you’ll feel 10 kicks within the first 10 minutes.) If you don’t feel 10 movements in two hours, stop counting and call your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I think my baby’s movements have slowed or changed?

Let your doctor or midwife know right away if you notice a slowdown of your baby’s movements. A decrease in fetal movement may signal a problem, and you’ll need a nonstress test or biophysical profile to check on your baby.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

33 weeks !

How Big Is The Little One?

My little angel is the size of a pineapple

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

I did not weigh this week, but as of last weigh in, I was up 8 pounds.  I lost 27 pounds first trimester, so I think I am doing pretty good !

Maternity Clothes?

Still rocking running pants, maternity leggings, oversized tees, body con dresses and mostly pjs since I have barely left the house this week.  The baby shower wore me OUT !

Sleep?

I sleep pretty well.  I do wake up a few times to urinate, but otherwise, I have no problem falling asleep.

Best Moment of the Week?

My week has pretty much revolved around resting, cooking and baking.  I was craving fried flounder and chips so I made that yesterday and today I wanted Baby Lima Bean and Country Ham Bone Soup, homemade buttermilk biscuits and grilled center cut pork chops.  I made egg custard pies for my mom using my great Grandmom’s recipe with a few tweaks of my own.  I wanted swiss n cheddar burgers for breakfast and homemade fresh cut fries so I made that at 8 am lol.  I only eat a few bites of anything before I am full, so I do not worry about weight gain.  Now that I am not as repulsed by the smell of food and sight of food, I really enjoyed the few bites of food I indulged in this week.

Symptoms?

My baby has been extremely active the past few days.  She was almost radio silent for the past few weeks with the exception of certain times.  Now, she is moving a lot again… Especially when I am trying to sleep or when I put belly buds on and play Mozart or Beethoven.

Constipation is plaguing me so I am back to taking 3 Colace in the am and drinking coffee with Miralax in it periodically.  That does the trick.

I had blood work last week and my TSH is extremely low (.066), my protein, fluid levels iron levels, Vitamin D, calcium, platelet counts, rbc… everything is LOW !  The baby is taking all my nutrients.  My sister instructed me to up my fluid intake and protein.  I went to get protein shakes but the kind I like was out of stock.  I will make a point of getting some this weekend and start drinking two per day that are 35g each.

Food Cravings?

Burgers, fresh cut fries, cheese, fried fish

Food Aversions?

None

Gender?

Female

Labor Signs?

None

What I Miss?

Wine and Sangria

What I Am Looking Forward To?

Meeting this little angel and seeing who she looks like… what she sounds like… what she smells like.

Bump?

My bump is growing a little… becoming more round.


Navel In/Out?

In

Baby / Mommy Purchases?

I didn’t buy anything this week.

What’s New?

My mom is going to be doing her reconstructive surgery in a week.  I am hoping the have a cancellation and can get her in next week so that she has time to properly heal before I have my cesarean.  Since they are doing a tummy tuck for a flap and her breasts, I am hoping she will be able to sit up straight and be functional by the time baby girl is here, since I will not be able to lift her.

Thirty One Weeks ! – The 411

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How my baby’s growing

This week, my baby measures over 16 inches long. She weighs about 4 pounds (about the size of a coconut) and is heading into a growth spurt. She can turn her head from side to side, and her arms, legs, and body are beginning to plump up as needed fat accumulates underneath her skin. She’s probably moving a lot, too, so you may have trouble sleeping because your baby’s kicks and somersaults keep you up. Take comfort: All this moving is a sign that your baby is active and healthy.

How mommy’s life’s changing

Have you noticed the muscles in your uterus tightening now and then? Many women feel these random contractions – called Braxton Hicks contractions – in the second half of pregnancy. Often lasting about 30 seconds, they’re irregular, and at this point, they should be infrequent and painless. Frequent contractions, on the other hand – even those that don’t hurt – may be a sign of preterm labor. Call your doctor or midwife immediately if you have more than four contractions in an hour or any other signs of preterm labor. These include an increase in vaginal discharge or a change in the type of discharge (if it becomes watery, mucus-like, or bloody – even if it’s pink or just tinged with blood); abdominal pain or menstrual-like cramping; an increase in pressure in the pelvic area; or low back pain, especially if you didn’t have it before.

You may have noticed some leaking of colostrum, or “premilk,” from your breasts lately. If so, try tucking some nursing pads into your bra to protect your clothes. (If not, it’s nothing to worry about. Your breasts are making colostrum even if you don’t see any.) If your current bra is too snug, you might also want to pick up a nursing bra. Choose a nursing bra at least one cup size bigger than you need now. When your milk comes in, you’ll be grateful for that extra room!

If you’re having a boy, you and your partner will want to take some time to think about whether or not to have your baby circumcised. Find out the pros and cons from your doctor, and what the procedure involves.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

31 weeks !!

How Big Is The Little One?

My little one is the size of a coconut

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

I have gained a total of 7 pounds.  None this week.  I lost 27 pounds during the first trimester so I am doing pretty good.  I think weight gain will start to happen from here on out because baby girl is going to gain 1/2 pound a week.

Maternity Clothes?

I am still wearing my too big maternity skinny jeans, boyfriend jeans, capris, bodycon dresses, oversized tees and running tights.

Sleep?

I sleep like a baby until I have to get up to go urinate !  I do wake up some mornings around 1 or 2 am to the baby moving but I am able to go back to sleep if I do not find something on tv to watch.

Best Moment of the Week?

I have had a ball shopping for baby shower game gifts.  Since my shower is co-ed, I decided to make some gift boxes out of old wooden cigar boxes filled with brown shredded paper and topped with a shot glass, miniature liquor bottles and a Davidoff cigar that says “it’s a girl.”  For the girls, I have Victoria’s Secret perfum, perfumed mist, and lotion with a poof and I am gonna grab a similar body wash from Walmart and put it in a gift box.  I also have two Angel Ball cookie gift boxes coming from a bake shop in Cleveland.  Today, a lot of the items I ordered for the tables and decorations will arrive via Fedex or UPS.

Cerveza, Limon y cigar !

Victoria Secret Body Products & Bath gel with bath scrunchie

Snow Angel Ball Cookie Gift Boxes

Tomorrow, I will pack the car and await the custom baked cookies shaped like onesies, diamonds, rattles, etc to arrive and then put them in the car along with my bags and will be leaving for NYC on Saturday morning early.  Our friends start flying in on Saturday and several of them are staying at the hotel I blocked off.

I have to bake scones tomorrow as well, but only because my scones are ridiculously amazing and I have had few that will compare :-).   My sister is going to make southwest chicken egg rolls (mini ones) and the caterer (Butterfield Market) will be dropping off the rest of the menu items on Sunday for the shower.  Make My Cake is making the two tier cake which is for decor only.  Sprinkles is providing cupcakes and we ordered clear boxes to put them in. I am picking up silver and white ribbon today to tie around the boxes. I am still waiting on my white linen dress to arrive which was shipped days ago !  Hopefully it will be here before Friday….

In other exciting news, more baby shower gifts have arrived and I blown away at the generosity and thought put into the gifts. One of my colleagues, a guy, decided to text me yesterday and told me he sent money via Western Union because he is not good at baby shopping and feels like a bull in a china shop lol.  He sent the baby cash so I will pick out a gift on my amazon registry from him.  My sister friend in Canada sent the baby a whole wardrobe of clothing from Baby Gap and Gymboree ! She even sent tights and shoes to match !!  I was in tears looking at the clothes and it started to sink in… this baby is coming in a few weeks and she is REAL.  She will be rocking clothes and I will be able to see her, smell her, feel her and hold her !  It is still surreal to me.  I just can not wrap my mind around a real baby….   It is a weird place to be.

Symptoms?

My baby is doing flips and kicks that are more noticeable.  She is getting bigger and she responds to my touch and voice now more than ever.  If I tap or rub, she moves to that area or kicks that exact spot.

I awake some mornings feeling like I have to vomit but it passes quickly. My breasts have started a whole new level of hurt !  I experienced shooting pain the other day so bad, I could not sleep.  I got up and put on a nursing bra that looks like a sports bra to keep my boobs from moving and that provided a little relief.  After a while, I just took two Tylenol and went to sleep.  The next morning, I made my nursing tea and the symptoms subsided.

I have noticed that I am still restless at night and I often switch from the bed to the couch for comfort.  But I am sleeping…  I still have no appetite but my aversions to Chick Fil A and sweets is now gone.

My skin is ultrasensitive.  I feel like my skin is crawling sometimes.  I am also growing raised moles and skin tags under my breasts which gross me out.  My OB is referring me to a Dermatologist. 

Food Cravings?

Soda !  Mountain Dew….

Food Aversions?

Not anymore

Gender?

Baby Girl

Labor Signs?

None

What I Miss?

The normal placement of my hands and sleeping on my stomach at times. I usually sleep on my side, but I am afraid to roll onto my tummy or back.

What I Am Looking Forward To?

My baby shower this weekend in NYC, my HD Live sonogram next week, and my maternity photo shoot I will do in the next two weeks.  I am still shopping for a gown to wear.

Bump?

Still have a little soccer ball !

Navel In/Out?

In

Baby / Mommy Purchases?

This week, they had a crazy deal at SAMS Club that I learned about on Hip 2 Save.  They had 4pks of Aden and Anais swaddling blankets (normally $40+) for only $6.41 !!  At some SAMS, they were as low as $4.41.   I got six pks for me and four pks for a friend in Texas since their store didn’t have any.  So now my baby has 49 Aden and Anais swaddling blankets and six more organic cotton ones from another vendor.

Thirty Weeks ! – The 411

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How my baby’s growing

Your baby is about 15.7 inches long now and weighs almost 3 pounds (about the size of a large cabbage). A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds her, but that volume will shrink as she gets bigger and takes up more room in your uterus. Her eyesight continues to develop, though it’s not very keen; even after she’s born, she’ll keep her eyes closed for a good part of the day. When she does open them, she’ll respond to changes in light but will have 20/400 vision – which means she can only make out objects a few inches from her face. (Normal adult vision is 20/20.)

How Mommy’s life’s changing

You may be feeling a little tired these days, especially if you’re having trouble sleeping. You might also feel clumsier than normal, which is perfectly understandable. Not only are you heavier, but the concentration of weight in your pregnant belly causes a shift in your center of gravity. Plus, thanks to hormonal changes, your ligaments are more lax, so your joints are looser, which may also contribute to your balance being a bit off.

Also, this relaxation of your ligaments can cause your feet to spread permanently, so you may have to invest in some new shoes in a bigger size. Remember those mood swings you had earlier in pregnancy? The combination of uncomfortable symptoms and hormonal changes can result in a return of those emotional ups and downs. It’s normal to worry about what your labor will be like or whether you’ll be a good parent. But if you can’t shake the blues or feel increasingly irritable or agitated, talk to your doctor or midwife. You may be among the 1 in 10 expectant women who battle depression during pregnancy. Also let your healthcare provider know if you’re frequently nervous or anxious.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

30 weeks !

How Big Is The Little One?

My baby girl is now the size of a head of cabbage.

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

I have gained a total of 7 pounds (lost one I gained last week)  During first trimester, I lost 27 pounds.

Maternity Clothes?

I wear maternity pants, maternity shirts, oversized tees, and body con dresses. I have a few sundresses that are loose as well.

Sleep?

I am having no problems with sleep now.  (Thank you sweet baby Jesus !)

Best Moment of the Week?

I have had a pretty shitty week being in my feelings about friends who are not attending my baby shower.  Some that were notified in MARCH or APRIL about my August baby shower, have called or I either I had to call them, to learn they are not coming.  My best friend, can not come because it is her son’s birthday weekend (note he is turning 17) and she is having some issues with her ex husband, who usually gets the boys and brings them to ATL for the summer and it is also her vacation week.  I have a few others who all of sudden have scheduling conflicts a week before my shower !  I am completely and utterly pissed.  I am always, ALWAYS there for important events for others, and whether I can really afford it or not at the time, I work it out.   At $100 per person you do NOT bail on a life altering event of this magnitude for stupid shit AFTER Rsvp’ing that you are coming AND bringing someone with you!   I am not happy about it and I swear this is the LAST event I plan that includes anyone outside of my immediate family.   I had started planning my baby’s baptism, which will be held beachside, but I have decided to only include her Godparents, my mom and I.   I may not even invite my sisters.   I am kinda put off by them at this point too.   My birthday was July 12th and I got NO card, no gift from either of them.  I give them gifts every birthday, every Mother’s Day, every Valentine’s Day, every Easter, and Christmas !  Not even a card?  Neither of them gave my mom a gift for her 65th birthday either, which was odd.  One is having financial issues so I kinda get the no gift, but you can not buy a card, yet the next week, you take off to meet the other sister in Orlando for our nephew’s basketball games and failed to even mention you are going?

Anyway, I am just not happy at all that my godmother, best friend and some other friends are not coming to my baby shower and there are other people who did not even respond to the RSVP simply because they do not want to buy a gift, which I do not need anyway.  It is just effing RUDE to not reply to an RSVP.    I think I am just being hormonal, because usually, I could give a shit less about stuff like this….   I just put a lot of effort into this event and wanted people I care about to be there to celebrate the impending birth of a child I have waited my whole life for and worked for over two years for !

For the best moments of the week… that was the question right? lol….  I had my 30 week OB appointment and also MFM scan.  My baby girl. of course, would NOT cooperate so the 3D scan of her little face was not a good one.  Everything else looks great and she is almost 3 pounds.  They estimate she will be around 7 pounds.  I also have started receiving baby shower gifts and it is pretty cool that there are those who are happy for me and are celebrating my little one.

Symptoms?

I am not having any pregnancy symptoms, aside from the baby kicking and moving around.  My boobs hurt ALL the time… but that is about it this week.

Food Cravings?

I was craving pizza earlier this week so I made two from scratch.

Food Aversions?

Salty foods.

Gender?

Baby Girl !

Labor Signs?

I had a little cramping because I was upset about the post office not locating a package but I calmed myself down and drank a bottle of water and the cramps subsided. No real labor signs….

What I Miss?

Being able to wear a bra without pain !

What I Am Looking Forward To?

My baby shower next week and Holding my baby in a few weeks !

Bump?

My bump has not gotten much bigger, at least I do not think so.  I have a little soccer ball.


Navel In/Out?

In

Baby / Mommy Purchases?

The only items I have purchased this week are all baby shower related…  Custom cookies, custom cake from a celebrity baker I have used for years, custom candy apples, floral arrangements, and little odds and ends.   I also finalized catering fees and paid them…

Twenty Nine Weeks ! – The 411

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How my baby’s growing

The baby now weighs about 2 1/2 pounds (about the size of a butternut squash) and is a tad over 15 inches long from head to heel. Her muscles and lungs are continuing to mature, and her head is growing bigger to make room for her developing brain. To meet her increasing nutritional demands, you’ll need plenty of protein, vitamin C, folic acid, and iron. And because her bones are soaking up lots of calcium, be sure to drink your milk (or find another good source of calcium, such as cheese, yogurt, or enriched orange juice). This trimester, about 250 milligrams of calcium are deposited in your baby’s hardening skeleton each day.

How mommy’s life’s changing

Your baby’s very active now. Your healthcare provider may ask you to spend some time each day counting kicks and will give you specific instructions on how to do this. Let your doctor or midwife know if you ever notice that your baby is becoming less active. You may need a nonstress test or biophysical profile to check on your baby.

Some old friends – heartburn and constipation – may take center stage now. The pregnancy hormone progesterone relaxes smooth muscle tissue throughout your body, including your gastrointestinal tract. This relaxation, coupled with the crowding in your abdomen, slows digestion. Sluggish digestion can cause gas and heartburn – especially after a big meal – and contribute to constipation.

Your growing uterus may also be contributing to hemorrhoids. These swollen blood vessels in your rectal area are common during pregnancy. Fortunately, they usually clear up in the weeks after giving birth.

If they’re itchy or painful, try soaking in warm water in a tub or a sitz bath or applying cold compresses medicated with witch hazel to the affected area. Avoid sitting or standing for long stretches. Talk with your healthcare provider before using any over-the-counter remedies during pregnancy, and let her know if you have any rectal bleeding. To prevent constipation, eat a high-fiber diet, drink plenty of water, and get regular exercise.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

29 weeks ! Wow… just wow !

How Big Is The Little One?

She is the size of a butternut squash

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

No weight gain this week.   I lost 27 pounds during 1st trimester and have gained only 8 so far, which is all baby and boobs !

Maternity Clothes?

I wear maternity jeans and capris.  I have some maternity tees but mostly wear running tights and oversized tees since I am in the house most of the day except my little walks or outings for errands, lunch, dinner shopping etc.  It is too hot out.  I try to go to the waterfront a few times a week and sit out for a few hours to get fresh air and sun.

Sleep?

My sleep pattern has improved, but I still can not get comfortable at night unless I strategically place pillows.

Best Moment of the Week?

Nothing that awesome has happened this week except baby shower gifts are starting to arrive.  I started writing and sending out thank you notes.  I am spending most of the week finishing up details for the baby shower.

Symptoms?

I have not dealt with too many symptoms this week. I have noticed that my feet are HOT !  My baby also has hiccups throughout the day which is THE weirdest feeling EVER !  🙂 I have noticed a slight increase in watery vaginal discharge and this thick white stuff in my nipples.

Food Cravings?

None

Food Aversions?

Salty foods and overly sweet foods.

Gender?

It’s a ….. GIRL !

Labor Signs?

None

What I Miss?

A nice glass of red wine sangria !

What I Am Looking Forward To?

Bonding with my daughter

Bump?

Oh yes !


Navel In/Out?

In

Baby / Mommy Purchases?

I bought my two bags for the hospital off of my registry this week.  I also purchased two more nursing tanks and a cute tee that says Me …. Mini Me !

Twenty Eight Weeks ! – The 411

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How my baby’s growing

By this week, the baby weighs 2 1/4 pounds (about the size of a large eggplant) and measures 14.8 inches from the top of her head to her heels.

She can blink her eyes, which now sport lashes. With her eyesight developing, she may be able to see the light that filters in through your womb. She’s also developing billions of neurons in her brain and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world.

How Mommy’s life’s changing

I’m in the home stretch! The third and final trimester starts this week. At this point, you’ll likely visit your doctor or midwife every two weeks. Then, at 36 weeks, you’ll switch to weekly visits.

Depending on your risk factors, your healthcare provider may recommend repeating blood tests for HIV and syphilis now, as well as doing cultures for chlamydia and gonorrhea, to be certain of your status before delivery. Also, if your glucose screening test result was high and you haven’t had follow-up testing, you’ll soon be given the three-hour glucose tolerance test. ( Because I had gastric bypass and all of my recent A1C testing has been normal, I got to skip this test !! woot woot !)

And if the blood work done at your first prenatal visit showed that you’re Rh-negative, you’ll get an injection of Rh immunoglobulin to prevent your body from developing antibodies that could attack your baby’s blood. (If your baby is Rh-positive, you’ll receive another shot of Rh immunoglobulin after you give birth.)

Around this time, some women feel an unpleasant “creepy-crawly” sensation in their lower legs and an irresistible urge to move them while trying to relax or sleep. If this sensation is at least temporarily relieved when you move, you may have what’s known as restless legs syndrome (RLS).

No one knows for sure what causes RLS, but it’s relatively common among expectant mothers. Try stretching or massaging your legs, and cut down on caffeine, which can make the symptoms worse. Ask your healthcare provider if you should try iron supplements, which can sometimes relieve RLS.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

28 weeks !

How Big Is The Little One?

She is the size of an eggplant

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

I have gained a total of 8 pounds 😦   I gained 3 pounds since last week !   I lost a total of 27 pounds the first trimester.

Maternity Clothes?

I am wearing mostly maternity clothes, running tights with baggy tees and sundresses.

Sleep?

My sleep patterns are getting a lot better.  I have figured out a way to use pillows as braces and am a lot more comfortable at night.  Things are a lot better now that my niece and her baby sleep in their rooms and it is quiet at night.  The only problem I have had of late is my mom up hunting down junk food at 12 and 1 am !  I got on her about it and told her she had to go to bed and STAY in her bed like normal people LOL.  I do not like people moving around in a house when I am sleeping, as I am a light sleeper.  I will be back in NYC in a few weeks until a few weeks after the baby is born, so it will all be a moot point soon anyway.

Best Moment of the Week?

The best moment of the week was spending the entire week with my family.  My sister, niece, and nephew came up from NC for the week and we have all been hanging out.

Symptoms?

Round ligament pain, feeling of heaviness, bouts of moodiness, sore boobs, no appetite, preggo brain, feelings of weird flutters and punches from within are all the things I feel.

Food Cravings?

None

Food Aversions?

I am able to better tolerate sweets now, but still can not stand anything too salty.  My taste buds seem to be heightened.

Gender?

Baby Girl

Labor Signs?

None

What I Miss?

Being able to hop on a plane whenever I want to !

What I Am Looking Forward To?

Being free to travel again. My upcoming baby shower.

Bump?

I have a round soccer ball !  I look more fat than pregnant most times.


Navel In/Out?

In

Baby / Mommy Purchases?

I bought nursing tanks and more items for my baby shower.

OMG ! Twenty Seven Weeks ! – The 411

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How my baby’s growing

This week, your baby weighs almost 2 pounds (about the size of a head of cauliflower) and is about 14 1/2 inches long with her legs extended. She’s sleeping and waking at regular intervals, opening and closing her eyes, and perhaps even sucking her fingers. With more brain tissue developing, your baby’s brain is very active now. While her lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning – with a lot of medical help –if she were to be born now. Chalk up any tiny rhythmic movements you may be feeling to a case of baby hiccups, which may be common from now on. Each episode usually lasts only a few moments, and they don’t bother her, so just relax and enjoy the tickle.

 

How mommy’s life’s changing

The second trimester is drawing to a close, and as your body gears up for the final lap, you may start noticing some new symptoms. Along with an aching back, for example, you may find that your leg muscles cramp now and then. They’re carrying extra weight, after all, and your expanding uterus is putting pressure on the veins that return blood from your legs to your heart as well as on the nerves leading from your trunk to your legs.

Unfortunately, the cramps may get worse as your pregnancy progresses. Leg cramps are more common at night but can also happen during the day. When a cramp strikes, stretching the calf muscle should give you some relief.

Straighten your leg and then gently flex your toes back toward your shin. Walking for a few minutes or massaging your calf sometimes helps, too.

It may be the furthest thing from your mind right now, but it’s not too soon to think about postpartum birth control. You’ll want to make some decisions about it before your baby arrives. If you’re considering a tubal ligation, be aware that some insurers, including Medicaid and other federal programs, require you to sign a consent form at least 30 days beforehand if your procedure is to be covered by insurance. So if you’d like the option of having the surgery during your postpartum hospital stay, don’t wait too much longer to discuss it with your doctor or midwife. (You can still change your mind later.)

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

27 weeks  🙂

How Big Is The Little One?

The baby is the size of a head of cauliflower

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

4 pound gain total.  (I lost 27 pounds the 1st trimester)

Maternity Clothes?

I now wear either exercise leggings with baggy tees or maternity clothes.

Sleep?

Sleep is still a bit sketchy but only because of disturbances by other people in the house. If my mother doesn’t wake me with her insomnia by rattling bags of junk food she is eating at midnight or beyond while sitting on the couch in my bedroom watching tv, then my sister or her family are making some noise (baby crying, tv in the den on the loudest volume like they are deaf, walking across the floor upstairs, waking up early and making noise in the kitchen which is just upstairs).  I am sooooo ready to go back to NY for peace and quiet !  A few more weeks and I can move into my sublet, which will be at a hotel.

Best Moment of the Week?

This week has been pretty quiet.  Tomorrow, I am leaving for Kentucky to take my mom to Paducah for the weekend.  It is the Quilt Capital of the world.  Because of her compromised immune system, my sister and her doctor were not in agreement with us sending her to Costa Rica due to Zika risk :-(.  My friend suggested taking her to KY, which I had no idea about and after researching the town, I decided to just take her there.  We will take a family trip next year to Europe.  My sister, who is a Pediatric RN is against me taking the baby out of the country due to germs, etc and her being not fully immunized, but I will discuss it with the Pediatrician when we have our first appointment.

Symptoms?

Other than the inability to get comfortable at night, pelvic heaviness, and round ligament pain, I have no other symptoms.

Food Cravings?

Still no appetite.  The only think I crave occasionally is watermelon and sometimes a homemade burger with onion and tomato.

Medical Issues/ Developments?

My TSH is elevated a bit and my doctor called in a prescription for a higher dose of Synthroid.  I now have to take 200mg instead of 175mg.  My iron levels have dropped too so I have to take an iron supplement.  Since they never called in one, I will start taking the organic liquid one I bought at a health food store.

Food Aversions?

Salty foods.  I am starting to be able to tolerate a little bit of sweets.

Gender?

Baby Girl !!

Labor Signs?

None

What I Miss?

Having a flatter belly and not having to try to figure out where to rest my arms/hands

What I Am Looking Forward To?

My baby shower in a few weeks !

Bump?

Yes, I have a little basketball


Navel In/Out?

In

Baby Purchases?

I have not bought anything this week.  Well, I did purchase a gray elephant pillow for the baby’s room 🙂

Twenty Six Weeks !! – The 411

By

zucchini

How my baby’s growing

The network of nerves in your baby’s ears is better developed and more sensitive than before. She may now be able to hear both your voice as you chat with others. She’s inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid, which is essential for the development of her lungs. These so-called breathing movements are also good practice for when she’s born and takes that first gulp of air. Your baby is continuing to put on baby fat. She now weighs about 1 2/3 pounds (mine weights 1.12 pounds)  and measures 14 inches (about the length of a scallion) from head to heel. If you’re having a boy, his testicles should soon begin to descend into his scrotum – a trip that will take about two to three months.

26 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a scallion in length and the size of a large zucchini.

 

How mommy’s life’s changing

Are you rushing around trying to get to childbirth classes and prenatal visits, prepare your baby’s room, and take care of all your other daily tasks? Make sure that you also continue to eat well and get plenty of rest.

Around this time, your blood pressure may be increasing slightly, although it’s probably still lower than it was before you got pregnant. (Typically, blood pressure falls toward the end of the first trimester, and it tends to reach a low at about 22 to 24 weeks.)

Preeclampsia – a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure – most often shows up after 37 weeks, but it can happen earlier so it’s important to be aware of the warning signs. Call your healthcare provider if you have swelling in your face or puffiness around your eyes, more than slight swelling of your hands, excessive or sudden swelling of your feet or ankles, or rapid weight gain (more than 4 to 5 pounds in a week). With more severe preeclampsia, you may experience other symptoms. Let your doctor or midwife know immediately if you have a severe or persistent headache, vision changes (including double or blurred vision, seeing spots or flashing lights, sensitivity to light, or temporary loss of vision), intense pain or tenderness in your upper abdomen, or vomiting.

If your lower back seems a little achy lately, you can thank both your growing uterus – which shifts your center of gravity, stretches out and weakens your abdominal muscles, and may be pressing on a nerve – as well as hormonal changes that loosen your joints and ligaments. Plus, the extra weight you’re carrying means more work for your muscles and increased stress on your joints, which is why you may feel worse at the end of the day. Walking, standing, or sitting for long periods, as well as bending and lifting, can put a strain on your back.

A warm bath or hot compress might bring relief. (Some women, though, find cool compresses more comforting.) Try to maintain good posture during the day, avoid activities that require bending and twisting at the same time, take frequent breaks when sitting or standing, and sleep on your side with one or both knees bent with a pillow between your legs, using another pillow (or wedge) to support your belly.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

26 Weeks

How Big Is The Little One?

The baby is the size of a zucchini and the length of a scallion.

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

4 pounds gained since last month / I lost 27 pounds January through February.

Maternity Clothes?

I am now wearing mostly maternity pants and jeans.  I am having a hard time finding dresses that I actually like so I am going to start boutique shopping at plus size upscale stores to find some cute wrap dresses and maxi dresses.

Sleep?

My insomnia is out of control !  I am hoping that I will be able to get some sleep in the3rd trimester.  I am lucky that I can at least get a few hours of sleep during the day since I control my own schedule.

Best Moment of the Week?

My mom was again declared CANCER FREE !  Her pet scan showed a nodule on her thyroid and the they ordered a MRI.  A nodule was seen on the other side too !  A biopsy was then ordered and she went in on Wednesday for the biopsy and those nodules are just little goiters !  NO CANCER !!   We are all elated that cancer is behind us and great health is all we have in the future :-).

Another great moment this week was this long long sleep I was able to get last night !  I was MAD when I woke up at 5:30 am realizing I had to be up in 30 mins and in the shower to get ready to meet the driver at 7 am to head to Lenox Hill Hospital.

Seeing my baby move around and seeing that she is sideways as I suspected during the sonogram and hearing that all is well was an amazing, relieving feeling.

Symptoms?

I am experiencing bouts of queasiness and there is not a lot of room for food once I start eating.  I can feel that my placenta is still low, or that the baby seems low and heavy.  I still experience round ligament pain and have to brace for sneezing and coughing.

Food Cravings?

I still have no appetite.  I was craving plums, but now it seems to be watermelon.

Food Aversions?

Salty foods and sweet foods.

Gender?

Female

Labor Signs?

None

What I Miss?

Sleep and my clothes fitting the way I want.  I miss my pregnancy being incognito.  I have a definite pouch and bump and it can not be mistaken.  I was just be glad when it rounds out more and I look less “fat” and more like a preggo girl. I also miss waking up walking on the beach and seeing the sunrise over the horizon.

What I Am Looking Forward To?

Seeing my baby and holding her.  Hearing her cry and getting to know this little being I created.

Bump?

Whoa Big !


Navel In/Out?

In

Baby / Mommy Purchases?

I have not made any purchases this week.  The only purchases I will be making over the next few weeks will be related to my baby shower.