Wow...this weekend was sure filled with false alarms and tears.
I guess it all started on Thursday evening at the cocktail event. People were placing bets on who was going to have a baby first...C and I, or another couple from the Club who was expecting their fourth baby. Well...I held out and win wife-of-the-year from everyone at the Club! Diane and Jay had their fourth girl (4th!! holy moly!) on Friday, and unfortunately Jay had to pull out of the tournament (obviously for the very best of reasons.)
Friday after our doctor's appointment, I pretty much relaxed all day, or at least tried to. Every time I moved, I was in pain. The cramping was pretty intense, and made for a very miserable me for the better part of the afternoon. However, it was good to know what I've progressed to 3cm and that things are moving along.
Saturday was absolutely awesome! I went to the spa with four of my really great friends for manicures and pedicures, then we headed to Symposium to sit on the patio and enjoy the sunshine. Oi.....sunshine indeed! I'm not sure how the other three ladies fared, but my back is still burnt to the point where I have to wear a strapless shirt and lather on the aloe every few hours!
It was absolutely awesome to get together with some girlfriends and be....me for once. Not the mom-to-be or the daughter-in-law, or even C's pregnant wife...but me. It was great!
We capped off the night with the fancy schmancy dinner and dance out at the Club and closing ceremonies for the golf tournament. It was great to get dressed up and parade my belly. I probably should have taken a picture, but the positive comments from people were enough to make me smile all night long. From "You're in labour?! Why are you here???!" to "You look beautiful! Are you due later this summer?" and "You're due in 10 days?! You look like you're 6 months pregnant!"....it was great!
Sit down for dinner....queue the contractions. Oh gosh...I wasn't sure how long we were going to make it. I tried so hard to have a brave face, smile and strike up conversation but whew! It was difficult with all of the sharp pains and constant tightness that I was feeling. Poor C was getting hit in the leg every time it happened and had to keep track, but they were consistently 20 minutes apart so we weren't too worried.
What a great "last date night" out with C! He looked so handsome, and I was able to get all dolled up....*sigh* It's going to be a while before that happens again, but obviously well worth it.
Yesterday was a whole different story. I was crampy, emotional....slightly irrational even....and really tired. I spent alot of the day lying on the couch groaning and whining...or bouncing on my yoga ball telling Bug "okay...let's go buddy!!" and the tears seemed to fall at the most random of times. I bet C can't wait for this to be over!
So now...we're waiting! I feel pretty good today, aside from the sunburn, and might even venture out to get some errands done this afternoon. I'd really like to get some daylillies to plant in the gardens and since my energy level is pretty good today...I am confident that I can get them planted before the rain comes tonight. I also need to get a soaker hose for our new cedars, extension cord for the weed whacker, and a wall-mounted hose holder or some other contraption to keep things neat and tidy at the side of the house.
Anything to pass the time, eh?
Monday, May 31, 2010
Friday, May 28, 2010
The Belly
I almost forgot to post these! I'm starting to slowly freak out about the aftermath of the belly...how will it ever go down? Will it look "normalish" or will it be all saggy and disgusting?
I lost so much weight in the 1st trimester that I have no clue that I will weigh once Bug's born...I'm still down 13lbs. from when we got pregnant, so that's good to think about...but it causes me some anxiety as well! Considering that there is a 7ish lb. baby in me, plus fluid and placenta...and Lord knows bigger boobs...I an anxious to see what the post-baby number is on the scale!
Here's the belly of which I speak!
And my view down...Gosh!
Baby Watch 2010
That's right! The mess-up of an appointment turned out to be a blessing in disguise...we got great information this morning at our appointment!
I didn't sleep very well at all last night...tossing and turning, up almost every hour to go to the bathroom...lots of cramping, and a little bleeding as well. Was it ever worth it!
Bug's heart rate - 140bpm
Momma's blood pressure - 100/68
Weight gain - 0!
Crown to Rump measurement - 39cm...yup! He grew 2cm in a week, without me gaining a pound! No wonder I've been so miserable in the past week!!
Now for the best part - more dilation! Dr. Leslie had the honour of doing the internal today and I am about 3cm dilated at this point, still fully effaced and both we heard the best words ever.
Any. Day. Now.
That's right! We're officially on Baby Watch 2010!
We booked our next appointment for next Friday, though Dr. Jordan doesn't think we will make it that far, and C is anticipating a Sunday or monday baby.
I didn't ask about a stretch&sweep, or induction either. I figure at this point...it's out of my hands, it's still early, and I am certainly strong enough to last a few more days. Godmomma and MommaT are not anywhere near me, and I really want them to be here when Bug arrives. C's in the golf tournament at the club this weekend, and we have the big dinner and dance tomorrow night - it might be our last chance at a little adult date night where I can get dressed up.
And I have the spa tomorrow! Momma needs pretty fingers and toes!
I didn't sleep very well at all last night...tossing and turning, up almost every hour to go to the bathroom...lots of cramping, and a little bleeding as well. Was it ever worth it!
Bug's heart rate - 140bpm
Momma's blood pressure - 100/68
Weight gain - 0!
Crown to Rump measurement - 39cm...yup! He grew 2cm in a week, without me gaining a pound! No wonder I've been so miserable in the past week!!
Now for the best part - more dilation! Dr. Leslie had the honour of doing the internal today and I am about 3cm dilated at this point, still fully effaced and both we heard the best words ever.
Any. Day. Now.
That's right! We're officially on Baby Watch 2010!
We booked our next appointment for next Friday, though Dr. Jordan doesn't think we will make it that far, and C is anticipating a Sunday or monday baby.
I didn't ask about a stretch&sweep, or induction either. I figure at this point...it's out of my hands, it's still early, and I am certainly strong enough to last a few more days. Godmomma and MommaT are not anywhere near me, and I really want them to be here when Bug arrives. C's in the golf tournament at the club this weekend, and we have the big dinner and dance tomorrow night - it might be our last chance at a little adult date night where I can get dressed up.
And I have the spa tomorrow! Momma needs pretty fingers and toes!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Ridiculousness
I very much wish I had a better post for today. I very much wish I had news of progress. I very much wish that I had something positive to say.
I don't.
All I can say is that I am incredibly angry at the receptionist at the dr's office this morning. We had a prenatal appointment scheduled for 11:30am, which was booked with the lovely receptionist that I adore last Friday. Apparently, it wasn't put into the calendar and the rude receptionist this morning was little to no help whatsoever.
Seriously! I'm standing in front of her, clearly disappointed and frustrated...hot as all heck...about ready to drop a baby...and all she can say is that lovely-receptionist "makes mistakes"?! Really?! Way to throw your colleague under the bus and not fix the situation!
I even pulled out my appointment reminder card, since usually our appointments are Friday's and we had to switch to Thursday this week because I wanted to make sure C could be there and it wouldn't compromise the golf tournament that he's in this weekend. I thought maybe we had mixed up the days and really booked for Friday instead of Thursday. Nope...we booked for today.
I don't have a single positive thing to say about today. I woke up feeling rested and good and not super crampy, and now I am miserable as all hell.
And now I feel like I'm going to throw up...beautiful
I don't.
All I can say is that I am incredibly angry at the receptionist at the dr's office this morning. We had a prenatal appointment scheduled for 11:30am, which was booked with the lovely receptionist that I adore last Friday. Apparently, it wasn't put into the calendar and the rude receptionist this morning was little to no help whatsoever.
Seriously! I'm standing in front of her, clearly disappointed and frustrated...hot as all heck...about ready to drop a baby...and all she can say is that lovely-receptionist "makes mistakes"?! Really?! Way to throw your colleague under the bus and not fix the situation!
I even pulled out my appointment reminder card, since usually our appointments are Friday's and we had to switch to Thursday this week because I wanted to make sure C could be there and it wouldn't compromise the golf tournament that he's in this weekend. I thought maybe we had mixed up the days and really booked for Friday instead of Thursday. Nope...we booked for today.
I don't have a single positive thing to say about today. I woke up feeling rested and good and not super crampy, and now I am miserable as all hell.
And now I feel like I'm going to throw up...beautiful
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
To Wake, or Not to Wake...
Another edition of Notes from C...I had a very restless night, so bless his heart that he was willing to write our blog entry today.
Bug's arrival is fast approaching...we are both getting increasingly restless at night, and the contractions don't seem to stop. They are consistently mild and are approximately 20 minutes apart. Over the past couple of days, they've gotten down to 5 or 4 minutes, however...never more than four contractions at a time and then they will peter off or go away all together.
Anyhow, here's some notes from C
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
That is the question, friends/readers/general Internet people. Lately, “S” has been having tremendous difficulties sleeping. I imagine that this is to be expected. She’s basically got a live human inside of her, moving around, being restless, etc. He’s obviously out of room at this point, and is very ready for the outside world. But that’s not quite how it works. Some interesting scientific equation has to happen between “S”’s body and the baby to make this thing happen.
So in the meantime, she struggles to sleep. Countless trips to the bathroom – even more than when he started pushing on her bladder a few months back – and just general discomfort (Editor’s Note: I originally had “uncomfortable-ness” in there….which is absolutely not a word), both contribute rather significantly to this issue. So the question has arisen, and I’ll ask it again: To wake, or not to wake?
I have done my best to support “S” throughout this entire process. I am certain that most (all?) of the readers of this blog are women, so you will all share the same view on pregnancy. Most likely, most of you have either had kids or are experiencing pregnancy right now, just as “S” is. Pregnancy from the man’s perspective is (of course) a completely different experience. My body hasn’t changed; I’m not experiencing any of the physical challenges of all of this. But it’s still expected throughout that I be able to relate to how she feels.
I likely speak for most men when I say that I have trouble relating to my wife’s feelings/emotions even “sans-pregnancy”, but right now, it’s very difficult. The worst part of all of this is that I very badly WANT to be able to relate. Most of the pain and challenges in life that we experience, we are able to share together, and I’m able to empathize with “S”. This is completely different, however, and the best I can do is offer kind words and encouragement, but (I’m sure) they seem relatively hollow since I simply have no idea what “S” is going through.
Back to the title. Lately, “S” and I have had discussions about whether or not it is appropriate for me to wake up in the middle of the night with her when she cannot sleep and needs to go out to watch TV, or walk around, or what have you. The natural reaction is going to be “Of course you should wake up you jerk! Get up and support your wife!” While I am completely expecting this vitriol, I think the question is (at least) a little more complex than that.
Obviously, I am still working, and need to be up in the morning in good time to do so. Also, as “S” has (I believe) detailed somewhat in this blog, I have taken up a tremendous lifestyle change in terms of nutrition, physical activity, etc. This has taken a large toll, and at the end of the day, I am much more tired than I used to be (as to be expected with the increased physical exertion). These aren’t excuses; they are simply mitigating factors that are relevant to this discussion. The only reason I bring them up even, is that “S”, herself, has brought them up in relation to this topic. As guilty as I feel about leaving her on her own while I sleep, she (evidently) feels equally guilty about waking me up, knowing that these other factors are at play.
I have told “S” that if she’s annoyed by the fact that I am sleeping comfortably while she uncomfortably tosses and turns, or is forced out of bed, that she should simply wake me and I’ll spend this time with her. At 4 am, after a few hours of sleep, and knowing that I only have a few possible hours left, I am a less than perfect husband (not that I claim to be a perfect husband at any point in the day), and my brain just does not properly compute that I should be waking up to assist my ailing wife. This is why I’ve said she should simply wake me.
I fully expect, however, that she will not take me up on this, and will continue to miserably trudge around our house on her own in the middle of the night. I feel bad about this – of course I do; but I am not sure how to help correct this issue. This is back to the central theme of my post today, which is that I simply cannot relate to everything she’s going through.
We’ll get through all of this, and the finish line feels insanely close! Every time she has a contraction or a pain, I fully expect we’re heading into “launch sequence” with the inevitable contraction-countdown, from 20 minutes apart, to 15, to 10, and then to 5 minutes apart (ie. GO TIME!), but we’re not quite there yet. What goes around comes around, though, and I think Daddy is going to be spending some long nights and some early mornings with Bug moving forward. Until then, I guess I’ll keep getting my beauty rest until “S” tells me otherwise…..
Bug's arrival is fast approaching...we are both getting increasingly restless at night, and the contractions don't seem to stop. They are consistently mild and are approximately 20 minutes apart. Over the past couple of days, they've gotten down to 5 or 4 minutes, however...never more than four contractions at a time and then they will peter off or go away all together.
Anyhow, here's some notes from C
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
That is the question, friends/readers/general Internet people. Lately, “S” has been having tremendous difficulties sleeping. I imagine that this is to be expected. She’s basically got a live human inside of her, moving around, being restless, etc. He’s obviously out of room at this point, and is very ready for the outside world. But that’s not quite how it works. Some interesting scientific equation has to happen between “S”’s body and the baby to make this thing happen.
So in the meantime, she struggles to sleep. Countless trips to the bathroom – even more than when he started pushing on her bladder a few months back – and just general discomfort (Editor’s Note: I originally had “uncomfortable-ness” in there….which is absolutely not a word), both contribute rather significantly to this issue. So the question has arisen, and I’ll ask it again: To wake, or not to wake?
I have done my best to support “S” throughout this entire process. I am certain that most (all?) of the readers of this blog are women, so you will all share the same view on pregnancy. Most likely, most of you have either had kids or are experiencing pregnancy right now, just as “S” is. Pregnancy from the man’s perspective is (of course) a completely different experience. My body hasn’t changed; I’m not experiencing any of the physical challenges of all of this. But it’s still expected throughout that I be able to relate to how she feels.
I likely speak for most men when I say that I have trouble relating to my wife’s feelings/emotions even “sans-pregnancy”, but right now, it’s very difficult. The worst part of all of this is that I very badly WANT to be able to relate. Most of the pain and challenges in life that we experience, we are able to share together, and I’m able to empathize with “S”. This is completely different, however, and the best I can do is offer kind words and encouragement, but (I’m sure) they seem relatively hollow since I simply have no idea what “S” is going through.
Back to the title. Lately, “S” and I have had discussions about whether or not it is appropriate for me to wake up in the middle of the night with her when she cannot sleep and needs to go out to watch TV, or walk around, or what have you. The natural reaction is going to be “Of course you should wake up you jerk! Get up and support your wife!” While I am completely expecting this vitriol, I think the question is (at least) a little more complex than that.
Obviously, I am still working, and need to be up in the morning in good time to do so. Also, as “S” has (I believe) detailed somewhat in this blog, I have taken up a tremendous lifestyle change in terms of nutrition, physical activity, etc. This has taken a large toll, and at the end of the day, I am much more tired than I used to be (as to be expected with the increased physical exertion). These aren’t excuses; they are simply mitigating factors that are relevant to this discussion. The only reason I bring them up even, is that “S”, herself, has brought them up in relation to this topic. As guilty as I feel about leaving her on her own while I sleep, she (evidently) feels equally guilty about waking me up, knowing that these other factors are at play.
I have told “S” that if she’s annoyed by the fact that I am sleeping comfortably while she uncomfortably tosses and turns, or is forced out of bed, that she should simply wake me and I’ll spend this time with her. At 4 am, after a few hours of sleep, and knowing that I only have a few possible hours left, I am a less than perfect husband (not that I claim to be a perfect husband at any point in the day), and my brain just does not properly compute that I should be waking up to assist my ailing wife. This is why I’ve said she should simply wake me.
I fully expect, however, that she will not take me up on this, and will continue to miserably trudge around our house on her own in the middle of the night. I feel bad about this – of course I do; but I am not sure how to help correct this issue. This is back to the central theme of my post today, which is that I simply cannot relate to everything she’s going through.
We’ll get through all of this, and the finish line feels insanely close! Every time she has a contraction or a pain, I fully expect we’re heading into “launch sequence” with the inevitable contraction-countdown, from 20 minutes apart, to 15, to 10, and then to 5 minutes apart (ie. GO TIME!), but we’re not quite there yet. What goes around comes around, though, and I think Daddy is going to be spending some long nights and some early mornings with Bug moving forward. Until then, I guess I’ll keep getting my beauty rest until “S” tells me otherwise…..
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
My 2nd Family
Yesterday morning, bright and early, I got up to meet Godmomma at the mall while she and her boyfriend, J, passed through town on their way to the airport, bound for Las Vegas. *sigh* I miss vacationing...
Anyhow, she had mentioned that she had some gifts from her and her family, as well as her bassinet that she used for her son...and given that this all might be happening sooner than we all think, wanted to meet me to drop it off.
You see, we've known each other since we were 9...do the math. 19 years of friendship. I call her parents mom and Dad...she calls mine the same. Her sisters are like my sisters, and I've really grown to appreciate them all as a big part of my family, and they all hold a very special place in my heart. They've all been there through the most horrible times, and have helped me celebrate in the best ones too. Truly, they are a part of my family.
Wow! I am absolutely blown away and incredibly thankful for what my 2nd family did. Inside the bassinet that we're borrowing from Godmomma were three large, lovely, chocolate brown storage baskets full of goodies! Wipes, diapers, tag-alongs, health and safety kit, bottle nipples, bath time stuff, car caddy (already in the care and loving it!), bottle brushes, spoons, freezer portion container for homemade baby food, car roller shade...honestly the most useful and thoughtful stuff ever!
At the bottom of each of the baskets was a blanket...the cutest, softest blankets. I sent a text to Godmomma to find out where she found them...and her response just about sent me into tears. Her mom, MommaJo, handmade them all. How incredibly thoughtful!! We absolutely love them!
Baseballs for C, cupcakes for me, and a soft and snugly green fleece one fit for a playpen!
I love my second family, and can't wait for them to meet Bug!
Anyhow, she had mentioned that she had some gifts from her and her family, as well as her bassinet that she used for her son...and given that this all might be happening sooner than we all think, wanted to meet me to drop it off.
You see, we've known each other since we were 9...do the math. 19 years of friendship. I call her parents mom and Dad...she calls mine the same. Her sisters are like my sisters, and I've really grown to appreciate them all as a big part of my family, and they all hold a very special place in my heart. They've all been there through the most horrible times, and have helped me celebrate in the best ones too. Truly, they are a part of my family.
Wow! I am absolutely blown away and incredibly thankful for what my 2nd family did. Inside the bassinet that we're borrowing from Godmomma were three large, lovely, chocolate brown storage baskets full of goodies! Wipes, diapers, tag-alongs, health and safety kit, bottle nipples, bath time stuff, car caddy (already in the care and loving it!), bottle brushes, spoons, freezer portion container for homemade baby food, car roller shade...honestly the most useful and thoughtful stuff ever!
At the bottom of each of the baskets was a blanket...the cutest, softest blankets. I sent a text to Godmomma to find out where she found them...and her response just about sent me into tears. Her mom, MommaJo, handmade them all. How incredibly thoughtful!! We absolutely love them!
Baseballs for C, cupcakes for me, and a soft and snugly green fleece one fit for a playpen!
I love my second family, and can't wait for them to meet Bug!
Monday, May 24, 2010
No News...Is Good News?
Not so much in my opinion today!
Basically, we had no progress over the weekend until alot night...3 hours of contractions, about 20 minutes apart. Not severe enough to make me want to go to the hospital, or for either of us to be concerned about missing the LOST finale either (what a great end to such an epic series!)
I've had tonnes of cramping and sharp pains all weekend, which likely can be attributed to dilation, but really...not too much to report on our end! I've had some bigger contractions this morning, but they're very much spaced apart, so I'm not freaking out...yet anyhow!
This week is already a crazy one for C...so we're sort of thinking that it's inevitable that Bug will make his debut. Today, he's off to a golf tournament with his friends and the HABS game (as well as the Bachelorette!)....tomorrow has softball....Wednesday, neither of us have anything going on....Thursday, he is off to his personal trainer and we have our next doctor's appointment, as well as a cocktail event out at the Club.
To top it all off, this weekend is the member-member tournament at the Club! Full rounds of golf and activities both Friday and Saturday, ending with a big dinner and dance on Saturday evening....oh and Saturday is spa day with the girls too!
Place your bets! I've posted a poll off to the side, in place of important dates because let's be realistic here...Bug's coming...and soon!
Basically, we had no progress over the weekend until alot night...3 hours of contractions, about 20 minutes apart. Not severe enough to make me want to go to the hospital, or for either of us to be concerned about missing the LOST finale either (what a great end to such an epic series!)
I've had tonnes of cramping and sharp pains all weekend, which likely can be attributed to dilation, but really...not too much to report on our end! I've had some bigger contractions this morning, but they're very much spaced apart, so I'm not freaking out...yet anyhow!
This week is already a crazy one for C...so we're sort of thinking that it's inevitable that Bug will make his debut. Today, he's off to a golf tournament with his friends and the HABS game (as well as the Bachelorette!)....tomorrow has softball....Wednesday, neither of us have anything going on....Thursday, he is off to his personal trainer and we have our next doctor's appointment, as well as a cocktail event out at the Club.
To top it all off, this weekend is the member-member tournament at the Club! Full rounds of golf and activities both Friday and Saturday, ending with a big dinner and dance on Saturday evening....oh and Saturday is spa day with the girls too!
Place your bets! I've posted a poll off to the side, in place of important dates because let's be realistic here...Bug's coming...and soon!
Friday, May 21, 2010
Beyond Happy!!
Yup...you guessed it! We got an internal today! Before I get into that...here's the rundown.
Weight gain/loss - +1lb since last week
Bug's heart rate - 144bpm...slightly higher than the 126 from last week, but still considered safe!
Mommy's Blood Pressure - 107/72
Bug's position - head down!
Crown to rump measurement - 37cm
Now onto the good part! We explained about the severity and frequency of the contractions last night to Dr. Leslie, and after she did the measurements and Doppler she told us that it was very likely false labour, my body practicing, especially since they went away after a few hours. Fair enough, but the term "false" really irritates me. It made me feel frustrated and like she thought that it was just more Braxton Hicks and that they weren't going to check around to see what was up.
She went to get Dr. Jordan, who thankfully has known C since he was about...5 years old..., and we talked to him about the contractions as well. C, bless his heart in noticing my frustration asked if there was anything we should be looking for, any way that we might be able to know if I was dilating from what happened last night etc. Dr. Jordan said that the only was would be with an internal, which he would typically do at around 37/38wks, and since I was 36wk5d they would wait until next week....unless I wanted them to do one today.
YES, PLEASE!
So he did the internal, and was rather surprised with his findings. "Very soft" aka fully effaced and 1cm dilated at first. Then came C's favourite part of the entire appointment...."well you're 1cm dilated...oh...now you're two!"
There you have it! 2cm dilated and fully effaced! Dr. Jordan expects that I am closer to 38/39 weeks and have only a week, maybe 2 max, left to go.
We couldn't be more thrilled!
Now if only the Habs could win the cup...then we'd really have a great year!
Weight gain/loss - +1lb since last week
Bug's heart rate - 144bpm...slightly higher than the 126 from last week, but still considered safe!
Mommy's Blood Pressure - 107/72
Bug's position - head down!
Crown to rump measurement - 37cm
Now onto the good part! We explained about the severity and frequency of the contractions last night to Dr. Leslie, and after she did the measurements and Doppler she told us that it was very likely false labour, my body practicing, especially since they went away after a few hours. Fair enough, but the term "false" really irritates me. It made me feel frustrated and like she thought that it was just more Braxton Hicks and that they weren't going to check around to see what was up.
She went to get Dr. Jordan, who thankfully has known C since he was about...5 years old..., and we talked to him about the contractions as well. C, bless his heart in noticing my frustration asked if there was anything we should be looking for, any way that we might be able to know if I was dilating from what happened last night etc. Dr. Jordan said that the only was would be with an internal, which he would typically do at around 37/38wks, and since I was 36wk5d they would wait until next week....unless I wanted them to do one today.
YES, PLEASE!
So he did the internal, and was rather surprised with his findings. "Very soft" aka fully effaced and 1cm dilated at first. Then came C's favourite part of the entire appointment...."well you're 1cm dilated...oh...now you're two!"
There you have it! 2cm dilated and fully effaced! Dr. Jordan expects that I am closer to 38/39 weeks and have only a week, maybe 2 max, left to go.
We couldn't be more thrilled!
Now if only the Habs could win the cup...then we'd really have a great year!
Labour 101
Well...I come to you bright and early this morning, more so to distract myself from what's going on and to kill time before our doctor's appointment this morning.
You see...last night I had a lot of contractions. And when I say alot, I mean averaging at around 9 per hour, timeable at 8-10minute intervals and with pain so severe that I was screaming and swearing from where I lay on the couch. From the hours of 6:00pm EST to 11:30pm EST, I wanted to kill someone, and was looking toward C as a possible victim.
I love him...I love him...I love him. If I had to hear the phrase "but the book says not to go to L&D until the contractions are 5 minutes apart, and you're only at 8 minutes" one more time, I was liable to throw something at him. Ya, C?? What about those contractions between 6:00-7:00 that were 5 minutes or less apart? What about the feeling that someone is stabbing me from the inside? Doesn't the book say to go when the contractions get too much to handle? Well, dear, this is too much to handle!
Once the hockey game was over, and he had showered and changed, gathered the rest of my things like my glasses in case of C-section, blackberry charger, LOST season 3, I asked to go for a walk. Okay cool, let's walk it out...maybe it will speed things up, maybe it won't.
So we walked...and walked...and walked a little further. The first contraction came at about 14minutes, then 8minutes, 6...5....3....1! Holy Lord...this is happening was all that was running through my brain. We got back home, C took the virtual tour on the hospital website again to we we would know where to go etc. Even if it turned out to be nothing, I would still have my mind at ease, right?
Well...then the contractions slowed. I was still really crampy, but they went from 2 minute intervals to 20...25...40 minute intervals. C suggested that we go to bed, and in hindsight he was right to stay calm, monitor me and even though I hated him in the moment for it, not rush to the hospital unnecessarily.
I'm sure that he got more sleep than I, but I was at least able to sleep until waking up with more intense cramping at 4:30. I lie awake until about 5:08 with the cramping, tossing and turning and it hurting every time I did. I think I got another hour of sleep, but woke up to cramping again at 6:08...so I gave up and here I sit. I have had a few more dull contractions since, so I will have to keep an eye on that this morning.
Hopefully we find something out at the doctor's today...if not, I don't think I should be held accountable for my actions. There will be a madwoman on the loose in SouthWestern Ontario, and she's very pregnant and liable to harm someone.
At least this was accomplished yesterday...
Who knew it was so easy to put four wheels on a stroller, and get it unfolded?
Getting this one was another story! But...I did it and we're all set to go.
You see...last night I had a lot of contractions. And when I say alot, I mean averaging at around 9 per hour, timeable at 8-10minute intervals and with pain so severe that I was screaming and swearing from where I lay on the couch. From the hours of 6:00pm EST to 11:30pm EST, I wanted to kill someone, and was looking toward C as a possible victim.
I love him...I love him...I love him. If I had to hear the phrase "but the book says not to go to L&D until the contractions are 5 minutes apart, and you're only at 8 minutes" one more time, I was liable to throw something at him. Ya, C?? What about those contractions between 6:00-7:00 that were 5 minutes or less apart? What about the feeling that someone is stabbing me from the inside? Doesn't the book say to go when the contractions get too much to handle? Well, dear, this is too much to handle!
Once the hockey game was over, and he had showered and changed, gathered the rest of my things like my glasses in case of C-section, blackberry charger, LOST season 3, I asked to go for a walk. Okay cool, let's walk it out...maybe it will speed things up, maybe it won't.
So we walked...and walked...and walked a little further. The first contraction came at about 14minutes, then 8minutes, 6...5....3....1! Holy Lord...this is happening was all that was running through my brain. We got back home, C took the virtual tour on the hospital website again to we we would know where to go etc. Even if it turned out to be nothing, I would still have my mind at ease, right?
Well...then the contractions slowed. I was still really crampy, but they went from 2 minute intervals to 20...25...40 minute intervals. C suggested that we go to bed, and in hindsight he was right to stay calm, monitor me and even though I hated him in the moment for it, not rush to the hospital unnecessarily.
I'm sure that he got more sleep than I, but I was at least able to sleep until waking up with more intense cramping at 4:30. I lie awake until about 5:08 with the cramping, tossing and turning and it hurting every time I did. I think I got another hour of sleep, but woke up to cramping again at 6:08...so I gave up and here I sit. I have had a few more dull contractions since, so I will have to keep an eye on that this morning.
Hopefully we find something out at the doctor's today...if not, I don't think I should be held accountable for my actions. There will be a madwoman on the loose in SouthWestern Ontario, and she's very pregnant and liable to harm someone.
At least this was accomplished yesterday...
Who knew it was so easy to put four wheels on a stroller, and get it unfolded?
Getting this one was another story! But...I did it and we're all set to go.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
One Step Closer
I will spare you the disgusting details (for any women out there...you know what gross labour sign I'm referring to!)...let me just say that we have progress, really great progress! We'll find out more tomorrow at our doctor's appointment, and I am definitely keeping my fingers crossed for an internal to know just how much progress there has been.
We had quite the successful day yesterday, after recovering form some severe cramping and pelvic pain. I went off to Cheeky Monkey to get the bouncer chair and actually was able to put it together all by myself yesterday! I was so proud, and man does it ever look comfy! I sent C a picture of it and he agreed that they should make them for adults as well...preferably with cup holders.
Once I picked C up from work, we headed off to Babies R' Us in search of a baby monitor, stroller, storage baskets, bassinet sheets and change pad cover. Well! Were we ever successful in that trip too! Not only did they have the specific Vtech monitor that we had looked at online but they also had just received our stroller...and had it in stock!! What an exciting day!
C dropped me off at home with all of our goodies and headed out to the golf course for a quick round, so I set off on organizing the last few parts of the nursery. All of his tag-along toys are neatly stored in a basket under the little stool that the CD player sits on, and his receiving blankets, burp pads and soothers are neatly folded in their own basket inside the dresser as well.
Today's task is to get the stroller put together and figure out how it converts into a travel system with the car seat, which is successfully (and properly) installed in the car.
Speaking of which...I should probably go and open that box and get started. For now..I leave you with the cuddly soft bouncy chair!
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
I'm Like a Bird...
no...not the Nelly Furtado song (though that was a pretty decent album when she was a little more organic, before she got all weird!). What I mean is that for some reason...at 11:30pm last night when I couldn't sleep because of severe abdominal pain and increasingly intense pressure on my pelvic bones and back, I thought that it would be a good idea (and time apparently) to put the breathable bumper from Nagypapi and Nana V into the crib and organize his bed a little. Okay, well maybe alot...I mean...I'm nesting at midnight when I should be sleeping!
Poor C...I must have made such a racket! First, I took out the mattress to put the mattress pad on, then put it back in the crib, only to take it out again when I realized that I couldn't get the bumper in with the mattress there.
Queue the Velcro straps that were done...and redone...and redone again. Sorry, C! I know it made alot of noise, but at least it's done now right?
After getting the bumper in place, and happy with where it was sitting etc. (and re-reading the instructions to make sure that I did it properly), in went the mattress...only to get stuck on the bumper. Seriously, can a girl get a break at 12:30am?!
Okay...mattress in, but I forgot the bed sheet. After spending way too much time fighting with the bed sheet and finally getting it tucked in nicely, I had to figure out what to do with the quilt. As per many reminders at our prenatal class and from What To Expect When Expecting, I know that a newborn is a wiggly worm and could suffocate under a quilt, even a thin one. Considering that we're going to swaddle and use sleep sacks, we don't really need the quilt in there for the first little while anyway. If only there were a way to get it tucked in super tight, way down at the bottom...So, that's just what I did, and hopefully it will be okay. Obviously it can always be taken out, but that's where it is, for now.
Before....
After...and yes I know Hurley can't be in there when Bug's in there
By this point, it was almost 1am and the abdominal pain and backache kept getting worse, so off to bed I went.
Queue a few hours of tossing and turning, maybe a cat nap here and there, I didn't exactly sleep. After an hour and a half of nesting, all of the pain and a few tears of frustration...it's hitting me very hard that this is all going to happen very fast, and very soon likely.
Being the good little boy that he is, Bug listened to my plea yesterday of getting out of my ribs and dropped even further. By the end of LOST, I could barely stand from all of the pressure and pain against my pelvic bones and floor. While my lungs felt alot of relief (something I wasn't sure was possible with this short torso of mine!), my body is certainly suffering today.
The end is near! I can feel it!
Poor C...I must have made such a racket! First, I took out the mattress to put the mattress pad on, then put it back in the crib, only to take it out again when I realized that I couldn't get the bumper in with the mattress there.
Queue the Velcro straps that were done...and redone...and redone again. Sorry, C! I know it made alot of noise, but at least it's done now right?
After getting the bumper in place, and happy with where it was sitting etc. (and re-reading the instructions to make sure that I did it properly), in went the mattress...only to get stuck on the bumper. Seriously, can a girl get a break at 12:30am?!
Okay...mattress in, but I forgot the bed sheet. After spending way too much time fighting with the bed sheet and finally getting it tucked in nicely, I had to figure out what to do with the quilt. As per many reminders at our prenatal class and from What To Expect When Expecting, I know that a newborn is a wiggly worm and could suffocate under a quilt, even a thin one. Considering that we're going to swaddle and use sleep sacks, we don't really need the quilt in there for the first little while anyway. If only there were a way to get it tucked in super tight, way down at the bottom...So, that's just what I did, and hopefully it will be okay. Obviously it can always be taken out, but that's where it is, for now.
Before....
After...and yes I know Hurley can't be in there when Bug's in there
By this point, it was almost 1am and the abdominal pain and backache kept getting worse, so off to bed I went.
Queue a few hours of tossing and turning, maybe a cat nap here and there, I didn't exactly sleep. After an hour and a half of nesting, all of the pain and a few tears of frustration...it's hitting me very hard that this is all going to happen very fast, and very soon likely.
Being the good little boy that he is, Bug listened to my plea yesterday of getting out of my ribs and dropped even further. By the end of LOST, I could barely stand from all of the pressure and pain against my pelvic bones and floor. While my lungs felt alot of relief (something I wasn't sure was possible with this short torso of mine!), my body is certainly suffering today.
The end is near! I can feel it!
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Dear Bug...
Oh little boy...we need to have a little chat. You see, every time you move...it feels like my ribs are going to collapse. Your bum is wedged up in between my rid cages, so when you wiggle, it doesn't really feel very good! Espercially when you're pressing down...way down there, having your bum in my ribcage isn't very comfortable!
We're so excited to meet you, Bug! Only a few short weeks until we're "due" with you, however...you are welcome to come now and I told your Daddy last night that you've officially been evicted. He sort of laughed at me, but with all of these contractions that are coming on stronger and more frequently...I think you're almost ready!
And are we ever ready for you! You've got a crib that is snuggly and warm, we'll have a bassinet this weekend so you can sleep near us for the first little while, a really great monkey playmat, lots of clothes, a great big Teddy Bear...Your carseat is even in the car and we're going to be ordering your stroller tomorrow when Daddy's done work and getting your cool little bouncer chair too!
We're ready for you little man, and we know that you're ready for us. Hopefully Dr. Jordan gives us some great news this week so we can get this show on the road and welcome you to our little family. I've let Maggie and Tiko know that you'll be joining us soon, and they seem pretty relaxed about your arrival. I'm sure you will all be friends in no time!
Oh, and I picked this up for you yesterday...mommy has a hard time restraining herself from cute things for you!
See you soon, Bug! We love you!!
Monday, May 17, 2010
Celebrating 37wks with a Baby Shower
Nana V's very best friend, Kathy, and her daughter, Kim threw us a really super cute baby shower in Kathy's newly renovated (and incredibly gorgeous) home this past Saturday. The food was fantastic...I think I went into a chocolate coma by the end of it!
Here are some pictures!
Heading off to the shower, I asked C for a fullterm-picture
Aunt Dorothy and Grandma Dale
Group shot! Suzanne, Kathy, Aunt Dorothy, me, Grandma Dale, Trudy and Kim. How cute is that clothes line?!
Another group show with Nana V and Casey (my little helper for the day)
And a rundown of a few of our faves....
Flexible tub that fits into any sink! How cool is that?! Thanks Kelly!!
The Very Hungry Caterpillar book and toy, from Trudy! LOVE it!
Bug's first hightops! Oh Suzanne, they're awesome!
Here are some pictures!
Heading off to the shower, I asked C for a fullterm-picture
Aunt Dorothy and Grandma Dale
Group shot! Suzanne, Kathy, Aunt Dorothy, me, Grandma Dale, Trudy and Kim. How cute is that clothes line?!
Another group show with Nana V and Casey (my little helper for the day)
Casey was so helpful! He would get my gifts for me, and then asked how I was. I said I was pooped...which turned into him walking around and telling everyone "Shan's pooped!" for an hour and a half! So cute!
All of the incredibly generous gifts! Thanks everyone!!
And a rundown of a few of our faves....
Flexible tub that fits into any sink! How cool is that?! Thanks Kelly!!
The Very Hungry Caterpillar book and toy, from Trudy! LOVE it!
Bug's first hightops! Oh Suzanne, they're awesome!
Handmade quilt from Aunt Dorothy...there will be much snuggling had with this one!
This week, we have big plans of ordering the stroller, getting the car seat inspected and organizing the nursery one last time (ya right...it's been organized and reorganized at least a dozen times over by now!). There are a few things that we still need to get, but we did really well yesterday at Walmart getting things like the breast pump, milk saver bags, cotton balls, Vaseline, baby wipes (never can have too many of those right?!), nipple cream, baby bum cream.
We still need to get a baby monitor with good range (leaning toward the Vtech Crystal Clear one, but we will see what BRU has in store on Wednesday after C's done work), bouncer chair, change pad cover, stroller (wahoo for the Quinny Zapp being in stock!), a couple of extra bottles, and a couple more little storage bins to match the one that Suzanne packed all of her handy gifts (remember those hightops?!) in. They'll go in the dresser to keep bath stuff, diaper stuff, and receiving blankets all organized....for now!
Definitely a busy baby week, ending with our weekly doctor's appointment.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Shower Pictures...Baby Brunch
I am positively pooped after the baby shower today...but thought that I would post some pictures from the lovely Baby Brunch shower a few weeks ago that Nana V took. Thanks for letting me borrow your camera!
Christine (my lovely partner in crime at the Whimsical Bakery), me and my mom
Debbie, Jan and Karen
Group shot...me, Kristin (the lovely lovely hostess!), Christine, Karen, Jan, Debbie and my mom
Kristin was an amazing hostess and the shower was fantastic! The food was soooo yummy and everyone was incredibly generous and we are so grateful for all of the love and support.
I know it's silly, but I am SO excited to have the turquoise watering can as the centrepiece on my table!! I had to get rid of the baby's breath today, but will be in search of some funky dried reeds or faux white flowers in the coming week or so.
Oh! And I went with the turquoise flats and accessories! ;)
Christine (my lovely partner in crime at the Whimsical Bakery), me and my mom
Debbie, Jan and Karen
Group shot...me, Kristin (the lovely lovely hostess!), Christine, Karen, Jan, Debbie and my mom
Kristin was an amazing hostess and the shower was fantastic! The food was soooo yummy and everyone was incredibly generous and we are so grateful for all of the love and support.
I know it's silly, but I am SO excited to have the turquoise watering can as the centrepiece on my table!! I had to get rid of the baby's breath today, but will be in search of some funky dried reeds or faux white flowers in the coming week or so.
Oh! And I went with the turquoise flats and accessories! ;)
Friday, May 14, 2010
Update? What Update?
And update would mean that there was something to tell, and unfortunately...I have nothing.
Nada. Squat. Zilch. Zip.
We had our 37wk appointment this afternoon, and after being reassured that we would have an internal today due to the contractions and back pain that I've been experiencing for...oh...the past 2 weeks, we got NOTHING.
So here's the lame-o rundown.
Weight gain/loss - +1lb since our last appointment
Blood pressure - 129/78
Fetal heartrate - 126bpm
And...that's all she wrote. Dr. Leslie said that Dr. Jordan wouldn't be doing an internal until 38wks, so I guess we hold out (and on) for another week, kick counting and keeping track of contractions and pains.
She did the Group B Strep swabs today, so we should get those results next week at our 38wk appointment.
It was interesting when I booked the appointment for next week...the lovely Linda at the front desk asked how far along we would be next week, and I said "37/38 weeks because of a floating due date" and she indicated that Dr. Jordan would need to be included on that appointment for an internal exam and that she would book it for just a little bit longer than what Dr. Leslie wrote on the card. THANK GOD!
Can I have a glass of wine now?
Nada. Squat. Zilch. Zip.
We had our 37wk appointment this afternoon, and after being reassured that we would have an internal today due to the contractions and back pain that I've been experiencing for...oh...the past 2 weeks, we got NOTHING.
So here's the lame-o rundown.
Weight gain/loss - +1lb since our last appointment
Blood pressure - 129/78
Fetal heartrate - 126bpm
And...that's all she wrote. Dr. Leslie said that Dr. Jordan wouldn't be doing an internal until 38wks, so I guess we hold out (and on) for another week, kick counting and keeping track of contractions and pains.
She did the Group B Strep swabs today, so we should get those results next week at our 38wk appointment.
It was interesting when I booked the appointment for next week...the lovely Linda at the front desk asked how far along we would be next week, and I said "37/38 weeks because of a floating due date" and she indicated that Dr. Jordan would need to be included on that appointment for an internal exam and that she would book it for just a little bit longer than what Dr. Leslie wrote on the card. THANK GOD!
Can I have a glass of wine now?
Psst...
look over there on the right....
a little further down.
Do you see it?
That's a watermelon...we're fullterm! Happy Friday! :)
a little further down.
Do you see it?
That's a watermelon...we're fullterm! Happy Friday! :)
Push Presents
I'm going for a frivolous, ridiculous post today to try and take my mind off counting down the hours....minutes....seconds to 4pm when we get to go see the doctor and get a status report. Bug hasn't been moving too much this morning, I've been trying to kick count, drink juice and eat little by little, but it seems that I have no appetite and he's staying as quiet as can be. Oh well...we're nearing the end and won't be counting kicks, but hearing cries, very soon!
Push Presents are a bone of contention on The Bump, and really...I don't get what the issue it. If Dad wants to get mom a gift to say "wow, you're amazing and I love you so incredibly much for carrying our son/daughter and putting your body through hell for 10 months"...why is that bad? I know that it's not for everyone, but I really do not understand the strong, negative opinions about it scattered throughout the message boards.
Personally, I think the term push present is a little ridiculous, if not slightly disgusting. However, I do not think that the idea of a push present is bad. Not whatsoever!
I actually thought months and months ago about getting myself something to congratulate....celebrate....me for having made it through 10 months of very hard work.
5 months of those 10 were spent throwing up multiple times a day, crawling on the floor to the bathroom and losing a total of 21.5lbs.
2 trips to the hospital, one of which was very scary and put life into a whole new perspective for both C and I.
Countless trips to the bathroom in the middle of the night...
A ridiculous amount of tears (especially recently) over the silliest things, including but not limited to commercials, not having peanut butter in the house, ruining dinner, feeling self conscious over my not-so-perfectly-round bump and receiving negative comments about it...oh, I could go on for ages with the cause of my tears over the past 10 months!
You see...I don't think it's bad...or wrong...for a mom to want a little gift, a token of appreciation, at the end of those 10 months. I had always intended on getting myself that little gift, tightly wrapped in a little blue box. Is it necessary? Absolutely not! But...it would be nice.
It got me thinking a few months back...what about Dad? Certainly, C has gone through all of this with me and while he hasn't experience the same physical pain that I seem to be in everyday, he has been there for all of the emotional ups and downs, trips to the hospital, dealt with my tears and been my backbone through these 10 months, and even prior to the beginning of our pregnancy journey when we weren't sure it was ever going to happen.
Therefore, I make it my mission today to get off my butt and out of my comfies...to go in search of his gift. Something to say thank-you for being there for me, for reading to Bug most every night, for painting the nursery to my very specific requirements, for staying strong when I felt like my world was ending...for being my rock. (queue the waterworks...)
I've had the perfect gift in mind for months, and while I can't tell you all what it is here since he reads our blog daily, it is something that I know he will certainly enjoy and appreciate, something that I would not typically ever spend money on...but that is perfect for celebrating this milestone in our lives. I hope he likes it as much as I think he will!!
Push Presents are a bone of contention on The Bump, and really...I don't get what the issue it. If Dad wants to get mom a gift to say "wow, you're amazing and I love you so incredibly much for carrying our son/daughter and putting your body through hell for 10 months"...why is that bad? I know that it's not for everyone, but I really do not understand the strong, negative opinions about it scattered throughout the message boards.
Personally, I think the term push present is a little ridiculous, if not slightly disgusting. However, I do not think that the idea of a push present is bad. Not whatsoever!
I actually thought months and months ago about getting myself something to congratulate....celebrate....me for having made it through 10 months of very hard work.
5 months of those 10 were spent throwing up multiple times a day, crawling on the floor to the bathroom and losing a total of 21.5lbs.
2 trips to the hospital, one of which was very scary and put life into a whole new perspective for both C and I.
Countless trips to the bathroom in the middle of the night...
A ridiculous amount of tears (especially recently) over the silliest things, including but not limited to commercials, not having peanut butter in the house, ruining dinner, feeling self conscious over my not-so-perfectly-round bump and receiving negative comments about it...oh, I could go on for ages with the cause of my tears over the past 10 months!
You see...I don't think it's bad...or wrong...for a mom to want a little gift, a token of appreciation, at the end of those 10 months. I had always intended on getting myself that little gift, tightly wrapped in a little blue box. Is it necessary? Absolutely not! But...it would be nice.
It got me thinking a few months back...what about Dad? Certainly, C has gone through all of this with me and while he hasn't experience the same physical pain that I seem to be in everyday, he has been there for all of the emotional ups and downs, trips to the hospital, dealt with my tears and been my backbone through these 10 months, and even prior to the beginning of our pregnancy journey when we weren't sure it was ever going to happen.
Therefore, I make it my mission today to get off my butt and out of my comfies...to go in search of his gift. Something to say thank-you for being there for me, for reading to Bug most every night, for painting the nursery to my very specific requirements, for staying strong when I felt like my world was ending...for being my rock. (queue the waterworks...)
I've had the perfect gift in mind for months, and while I can't tell you all what it is here since he reads our blog daily, it is something that I know he will certainly enjoy and appreciate, something that I would not typically ever spend money on...but that is perfect for celebrating this milestone in our lives. I hope he likes it as much as I think he will!!
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Category: Prelabour
Well, at least we fit nicely into a category that means progress!
I was reading What To Expect When Expecting the other evening, mainly to prepare myself for our Friday appointment, and came across the different stages of labour, and what each entails.
Apparently, we fit very comfortably into the Prelabour category. The main signs are:
dropping - we can actually see from the outside now, my belly hangs so low these days
increasing pressure on the pelvic floor and bum, - it's gotten so bad that when I sneeze, I can feel his head pushing against my cervix
loss of weight or no weight gain - at our last appointment, I lost 1lb. However, that could be due to better eating habits since C's been working with a personal trainer
change in energy levels - for me that's meant complete exhaustion...and this rainy weather is NOT helping!
change in discharge, loss of the beloved mucous plug
"show"
intensified Braxton Hicks - which I barely get anymore...they've moved to full on back pain and sharp shooter pains through my pelvis
diarrhea
Well...I've had almost all of that, save for a few of the more gross symptoms. Last night I had alot of back pain that would intensify, then ease up...only to intensify again. Apparently, that's a real labour sign...so I guess you could say that we're on the cusp of Prelabour and Real Labour. A few of the back contractions, and one of the lower uterine contractions, actually had me in tears yesterday....so all signs are pointing toward early delivery...or a few weeks of hell.
Keep your fingers crossed that we get new of progress tomorrow at the doctor's! If we don't, I may have a breakdown!
I was reading What To Expect When Expecting the other evening, mainly to prepare myself for our Friday appointment, and came across the different stages of labour, and what each entails.
Apparently, we fit very comfortably into the Prelabour category. The main signs are:
dropping - we can actually see from the outside now, my belly hangs so low these days
increasing pressure on the pelvic floor and bum, - it's gotten so bad that when I sneeze, I can feel his head pushing against my cervix
loss of weight or no weight gain - at our last appointment, I lost 1lb. However, that could be due to better eating habits since C's been working with a personal trainer
change in energy levels - for me that's meant complete exhaustion...and this rainy weather is NOT helping!
change in discharge, loss of the beloved mucous plug
"show"
intensified Braxton Hicks - which I barely get anymore...they've moved to full on back pain and sharp shooter pains through my pelvis
diarrhea
Well...I've had almost all of that, save for a few of the more gross symptoms. Last night I had alot of back pain that would intensify, then ease up...only to intensify again. Apparently, that's a real labour sign...so I guess you could say that we're on the cusp of Prelabour and Real Labour. A few of the back contractions, and one of the lower uterine contractions, actually had me in tears yesterday....so all signs are pointing toward early delivery...or a few weeks of hell.
Keep your fingers crossed that we get new of progress tomorrow at the doctor's! If we don't, I may have a breakdown!
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
The Good...The Bad....and The Ugly
What am I talking about, you wonder? Two words.
Nursing. Bras.
I went out yesterday, goal in mind, of finding two comfortable nursing bras...one white and one black. Part of my goal was to not spend a tonne of money as well, and to try and get a couple of them that didn't make me literally feel like a cow.
Well! Let's start with The Bad.
They're horrible!!!! The selection is awful....two styles! Really!? That's it!? One with lace and one without. Oh...well I suppose there were three styles if you include the cross over maternity sports bra...but let's get serious. Why in the world would I pay over $20 CDN for a sports bra that is identical to what I have now!?
The Ugly...well! You try stuffing your boobs, which have grown, and then shrunk....only to grow again, into these stupid things made of cotton that have flaps for easy access. The Playtex version...wow! Hello, torpedo boobs! At 40D...I definitely do not need torpedo's protruding from my body!
Now onto The Good...because there is some! After trying on a variety of sizes to ensure the most comfortable fit and taking into consideration that the girls will grow again due to engorgement (yippee do!), I quickly fell in love with the easy-access-flaps and the smooth styling of the Warner's maternity bra. While, yes it makes me feel slightly awkward and not all all girly, they're extremely convenient and will certainly make my life easier and support me want to breastfeed. They didn't give me torpedo boobs either, which was nice!
And it gave C a good laugh when I modelled them when he got home from work!
Nursing. Bras.
I went out yesterday, goal in mind, of finding two comfortable nursing bras...one white and one black. Part of my goal was to not spend a tonne of money as well, and to try and get a couple of them that didn't make me literally feel like a cow.
Well! Let's start with The Bad.
They're horrible!!!! The selection is awful....two styles! Really!? That's it!? One with lace and one without. Oh...well I suppose there were three styles if you include the cross over maternity sports bra...but let's get serious. Why in the world would I pay over $20 CDN for a sports bra that is identical to what I have now!?
The Ugly...well! You try stuffing your boobs, which have grown, and then shrunk....only to grow again, into these stupid things made of cotton that have flaps for easy access. The Playtex version...wow! Hello, torpedo boobs! At 40D...I definitely do not need torpedo's protruding from my body!
Now onto The Good...because there is some! After trying on a variety of sizes to ensure the most comfortable fit and taking into consideration that the girls will grow again due to engorgement (yippee do!), I quickly fell in love with the easy-access-flaps and the smooth styling of the Warner's maternity bra. While, yes it makes me feel slightly awkward and not all all girly, they're extremely convenient and will certainly make my life easier and support me want to breastfeed. They didn't give me torpedo boobs either, which was nice!
And it gave C a good laugh when I modelled them when he got home from work!
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Permission Granted!
Oh, I had the funniest conversation with C this morning when I finally got my butt out of bed.
He took one look at me, and must have known that I was tired and sore. "How are you feeling today?" he asked.
Done. I'm feeling like I'm done and that I want this child out of me. I'm tired of being sore, of my back hurting, of my sides and stomach hurting, of feeling nauseous. I'm done.
He sort of laughed, and then said that once the car seat comes in (note to self: call BRU today to see if it's in!) and we make it to being full term at the end of the week....I can do whatever I need to get this child out. Well...within reason of course!
Spicy chicken sandwiches, taco's, fajita's, walking, red raspberry leaf tea, reflexology pedicures, butt massages...oh gees...what else can I do!? I definitely will be trying to accomplish a few things this week.
First and foremost, nursing bras. I will be going off on a search for at least two comfortable nursing bras today
Secondly, the bathrooms are in desperate need of a cleaning. Thankfully, we use all natural products, so I have no qualms about cleaning them myself (other than the showers...it's too tough with all of the reaching, bending and stretching...so C will have to get on that one).
I also have to decide on my outfit for Saturday's baby shower, along with shoes and accessories. I think I know exactly what I would like to wear, but I have no clue if the dress fits, or will look ridiculous over my big belly (well not so big, but it sure feels huge these days!).
I'd also like to make a few casseroles and get them into the freezer, so we at least have something prepared if we have to rush to the hospital sooner than we think. I suppose we should hook up the big stand up freezer as well...thank would probably be helpful!
Then there's kick counting a few times a day before our Friday appointment, vacuuming that needs to be done (C will take care of that one though), car seat that needs to be installed (again...C to the rescue!), laundry to take care of, grocery shopping like usual...
The list goes on and on, and I should probably get started on it!
He took one look at me, and must have known that I was tired and sore. "How are you feeling today?" he asked.
Done. I'm feeling like I'm done and that I want this child out of me. I'm tired of being sore, of my back hurting, of my sides and stomach hurting, of feeling nauseous. I'm done.
He sort of laughed, and then said that once the car seat comes in (note to self: call BRU today to see if it's in!) and we make it to being full term at the end of the week....I can do whatever I need to get this child out. Well...within reason of course!
Spicy chicken sandwiches, taco's, fajita's, walking, red raspberry leaf tea, reflexology pedicures, butt massages...oh gees...what else can I do!? I definitely will be trying to accomplish a few things this week.
First and foremost, nursing bras. I will be going off on a search for at least two comfortable nursing bras today
Secondly, the bathrooms are in desperate need of a cleaning. Thankfully, we use all natural products, so I have no qualms about cleaning them myself (other than the showers...it's too tough with all of the reaching, bending and stretching...so C will have to get on that one).
I also have to decide on my outfit for Saturday's baby shower, along with shoes and accessories. I think I know exactly what I would like to wear, but I have no clue if the dress fits, or will look ridiculous over my big belly (well not so big, but it sure feels huge these days!).
I'd also like to make a few casseroles and get them into the freezer, so we at least have something prepared if we have to rush to the hospital sooner than we think. I suppose we should hook up the big stand up freezer as well...thank would probably be helpful!
Then there's kick counting a few times a day before our Friday appointment, vacuuming that needs to be done (C will take care of that one though), car seat that needs to be installed (again...C to the rescue!), laundry to take care of, grocery shopping like usual...
The list goes on and on, and I should probably get started on it!
Monday, May 10, 2010
Update From The Doctor
Like the crazy pregnant woman that I have become, I explained all of the symptoms to Dr. Leslie - sharp pains, pressure against the pelvic floor, sore back, occasional radiating pain from back to front, or front to back. I told her that I didn't want to overreact, and that's why I didn't call immediately after the ridiculous back pain that had me on the floor, on hands and knees, on Thursday morning. She assured me that I haven't been a whiner to this point (I think Godmomma and C may have a different outlook on that one!) so that when they got my call, they wanted to be sure to get me in as soon as possible.
She checked my blood pressure, which was fine (I didn't ask the number...I didn't really care)...checked the urine for everything imaginable, which was fine...and then palpated my stomach to check Bug's position and whatnot. Again...he's grown...A LOT, and is head down as I suspected. Everything is sore because I am completely out of room to give him...and yet he's still managing to grow, which is cause for his decreased movements and the pain and pressure on the pelvic floor.
We have our regular OB visit this coming Friday, which will include the Group B Strep test as well as our first internal exam to determine if I am in fact dilated or effaced at all, and I guess Dr. Jordan will be making a judgment call about when we're going to go into labour etc.
The feeling that I have right now is twofold. In one part, I am happy to have peace of mind that everything is fine, Bug is doing well and that he's at least in position. On the other hand, I was really hoping that they'd check things a little more in depth (internally) and say "wahoo! you're dilated!"
Fingers crossed that we get that news on Friday!
She checked my blood pressure, which was fine (I didn't ask the number...I didn't really care)...checked the urine for everything imaginable, which was fine...and then palpated my stomach to check Bug's position and whatnot. Again...he's grown...A LOT, and is head down as I suspected. Everything is sore because I am completely out of room to give him...and yet he's still managing to grow, which is cause for his decreased movements and the pain and pressure on the pelvic floor.
We have our regular OB visit this coming Friday, which will include the Group B Strep test as well as our first internal exam to determine if I am in fact dilated or effaced at all, and I guess Dr. Jordan will be making a judgment call about when we're going to go into labour etc.
The feeling that I have right now is twofold. In one part, I am happy to have peace of mind that everything is fine, Bug is doing well and that he's at least in position. On the other hand, I was really hoping that they'd check things a little more in depth (internally) and say "wahoo! you're dilated!"
Fingers crossed that we get that news on Friday!
Update!
We're off to the doctor's this afternoon at 2pm to see Dr. Leslie.
When I called and let them know about the sharp cramps, decreased movement, backache and nausea...they wanted me to come in today to make sure of what's going on. Even if it only gives me some peace of mind...I'll take it!
I will update accordingly this afternoon, unless they send me to the hospital to be monitored etc.
When I called and let them know about the sharp cramps, decreased movement, backache and nausea...they wanted me to come in today to make sure of what's going on. Even if it only gives me some peace of mind...I'll take it!
I will update accordingly this afternoon, unless they send me to the hospital to be monitored etc.
36weeks Down...
which means that we're full-term at the end of the week! The big question on our minds is...will we make it to the end of the week?!
I mentioned to C on Saturday "only 30 days left!" and he was quick to say "ya...I've sort of thrown that time line out the window." To be honest, so have I. We've been keeping track of contractions over the weekend, and while they never last more than a minute or are ever closer than 5 minutes apart, they're coming on no matter how much water I drink, how often I lie on my left side, how stressed or relaxed I am. The nausea is still there, the backache is constant and...Bug's movements have decreased.
Yes...I admit that I was completely and entirely wrong. He barely moves anymore, and it's starting to freak me out. He used to wiggle and squirm, kick and punch the whole day through, and now I'm lucky if I feel him kick once an hour...
After reading our book from the hospital, we're supposed to be feeling him 10 times in 2 hours, with routine and consistency. Ya...not feeling that at all. He'll be quiet for the entire day, with the exception of the occasional roll over, and then will have these crazy frantic movements. The book says that's not good, and to call your doctor.
So...I'm going to be calling the doctor shortly. The contractions/pains/cramps/backache have stayed since Thursday, and have gotten increasingly uncomfortable and painful...to the point where they take my breath away and make me nauseous.
In any event, since this could be our last belly picture...I leave you with 36 weeks...on mother's day
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Happy Mother's Day!
Wow...my very first mother's day! How awesome is that?!
C treated me to a really special day today, and while I don't typically blog on the weekends, I thought that I would post because I am so freaking excited!
We went to Cheeky Monkey this afternoon to....pick out a diaper bag! When we got there, we were told about fabulous discounts, draws and they had an aesthetician on site from POSH Pedicure Lounge to give mommy's a hand massage! Woohoo! It was lovely, and my hands are silky smooth and fantastic feeling now! She even said that they have Baby-Friendly Wednesday's for mom's to get manicures and pedicures, with babysitters on staff! (must investigate further...)
C spent alot of time looking over the diaper bags, going over options with the sales staff, and tried to keep in mind that I am ridiculously girly when it comes to accessories (think purple leather purses with ruffles and things of the sort).
We settled on....the Skip Hop Via bag...18 pockets, change pad, and stroller straps in black with a silver lining. C really liked the style, and it will match the stroller perfectly, which keeps me happy! Tonnes of storage, and like C said...we don't need something super girly..."let's be serious here, S...who's going to be carrying this thing around most often?" Oh bless your heart, C!
Here's the super exciting part...it's all packed!
Warm blanket from Auntie Debbie, 10 diapers (the hospital only supplies 6...), two receiving blankets, HABS going home outfit (in case it's warm out), monkey going home outfit from Godmomma (in case it's chilly), nursing wrap, soother, two pairs of socks, two white onesies
After our trip to Cheeky Monkey, we headed to the grocery store...for ice cream.
If I Had 1,000,000 Flavours anyone?
Thanks C, for a fantastic mother's day!
C treated me to a really special day today, and while I don't typically blog on the weekends, I thought that I would post because I am so freaking excited!
We went to Cheeky Monkey this afternoon to....pick out a diaper bag! When we got there, we were told about fabulous discounts, draws and they had an aesthetician on site from POSH Pedicure Lounge to give mommy's a hand massage! Woohoo! It was lovely, and my hands are silky smooth and fantastic feeling now! She even said that they have Baby-Friendly Wednesday's for mom's to get manicures and pedicures, with babysitters on staff! (must investigate further...)
C spent alot of time looking over the diaper bags, going over options with the sales staff, and tried to keep in mind that I am ridiculously girly when it comes to accessories (think purple leather purses with ruffles and things of the sort).
We settled on....the Skip Hop Via bag...18 pockets, change pad, and stroller straps in black with a silver lining. C really liked the style, and it will match the stroller perfectly, which keeps me happy! Tonnes of storage, and like C said...we don't need something super girly..."let's be serious here, S...who's going to be carrying this thing around most often?" Oh bless your heart, C!
Here's the super exciting part...it's all packed!
Warm blanket from Auntie Debbie, 10 diapers (the hospital only supplies 6...), two receiving blankets, HABS going home outfit (in case it's warm out), monkey going home outfit from Godmomma (in case it's chilly), nursing wrap, soother, two pairs of socks, two white onesies
After our trip to Cheeky Monkey, we headed to the grocery store...for ice cream.
If I Had 1,000,000 Flavours anyone?
Thanks C, for a fantastic mother's day!
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Notes from C
Another version of Notes from C...and again, he has great timing. I'm off at the Women's Conference today (well...Friday) with the bakery and I am praying that the contractions don't get any more consistent than they have been for the duration of the day.
Happy Friday, and happy reading everyone! If labour, false or not, progresses throughout the weekend...we will update as necessary!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I’ve always been quite a hit with the ladies, so the positive response to my initial foray into the The Family Szem blog was not the least bit surprising. Nonetheless, the positive words were welcome, and I appreciate the feedback.
What did, however, surprise me was hearing that my thoughts and words were not what most people were expecting. Truthfully, I thought what I wrote was pretty generic:
- Say you’re excited
- Talk about sporting events to which you want to take your son
- Make a few jokes
- Compliment the woman carrying your child
Those were my notes before writing the blog entry. Seems pretty standard, no? Ok, we all know that I’m not organized enough to actually make notes, but that’s basically what I was thinking before writing it. And it’s not that what I wrote isn’t true (it all definitely is….), but I didn’t expect it to be surprising to anyone.
Regardless, I’m back (by popular demand) for another go. I’ll do my best to provide more regular entries now as we get closer and closer to D-Day (hopefully he comes a bit early so I don’t have to think of that many intelligent things to write about).
What I thought I’d talk about today was my biggest – and most illogical, and completely impractical (and ultimately irrelevant) – FEAR as we are about to have a brand new baby boy.
What if our son is a Leafs fan?
(*dramatic pause*)
Honestly, the thought of this is absolutely devastating to me. It’s not that I “dislike” the Leafs per say, it’s just that I wish everyone in (or associated with) the organization nothing but continued failure and mediocrity in both their personal and professional lives.
As many of you are already aware (or have become aware through reading this blog), I am an extremely devoted Montreal Canadiens fan. The last month or so has been a rather interesting ride. Our house has been filled with emotions, mood swings, groans, aches, pains, yelling, and potentially a soiled couch cushion or two – plus my wife is pregnant!
I have been a Canadiens fan my whole life, which I attribute to the excellent parenting of two lifelong Habs fans (both of whom grew up in La Belle Province). But our familial situation serves as the perfect backdrop for my fears. My brother – initially a Habs fan when he was younger – became a Leafs fan once he was old enough to develop his own allegiances. He actively chose to support the “other” team in hockey’s most storied rivalry. He often likes to remind me of this, and suggests that this very situation could be brewing with my yet-unborn son (especially if he gets a chance to influence the decision. SIDE NOTE: All future gifts from Uncle “B” to Bug will be vetted to ensure “Leafs-free” content).
What if, however, all of my plans to “condition” my son to being a Habs fan eventually backfire? (Apparently they’ve done some studies, and kids like to rebel against their parents.) Truthfully, it won’t be the end of the world. It may even turn into a fun rivalry between us. The actual concern here, and the reason I bring up these points is all about “shared experiences”. I think that the reason I want so badly for son to share my passion for the Canadiens is that it will mean we will share a strong, specific, bond – something that helps to define our relationship through shared emotions and experience. As I prepare for fatherhood, a big part of me wonders how well I will be able to relate to our son, and what kinds of things we will have in common.
I am a sports fanatic. The Canadiens are – easily – the largest personification of this fact, as I basically live and die with every shot, save, penalty, missed call, goal, etc. But the larger point here is that my passion for sports is a big part of defining who I am. If you ask anyone close to me to explain what I am like as a person, I have no doubt that “sports” (in some regard) will have been mentioned within the first 15 seconds of the description.
So what if my son is into music and computers, and doesn’t particularly care for sports? Or he likes science and the environment, and thinks that professional sports are dumb because the carbon footprint of an NHL arena is too big? It obviously doesn’t mean that I’ll love him any less, or want any less success for him. What it does mean, however, is that I won’t share this specific bond with him. That’s hard to envision. I’m not asking for a little clone of myself (there’s simply no way this world is ready for another one of me), but I certainly hope we’ll have some things we can share and both enjoy as he grows up.
At the end of the day, none of this really matters. I’ll hopefully find a way to relate to him regardless of what he’s passionate about. 90% of parenting is showing up (I made that statistic up 10 seconds ago), and I’ll support him in whatever he’s doing.
And hey, if he’s a Leafs fan, he can always go live with his Uncle.
C
Happy Friday, and happy reading everyone! If labour, false or not, progresses throughout the weekend...we will update as necessary!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I’ve always been quite a hit with the ladies, so the positive response to my initial foray into the The Family Szem blog was not the least bit surprising. Nonetheless, the positive words were welcome, and I appreciate the feedback.
What did, however, surprise me was hearing that my thoughts and words were not what most people were expecting. Truthfully, I thought what I wrote was pretty generic:
- Say you’re excited
- Talk about sporting events to which you want to take your son
- Make a few jokes
- Compliment the woman carrying your child
Those were my notes before writing the blog entry. Seems pretty standard, no? Ok, we all know that I’m not organized enough to actually make notes, but that’s basically what I was thinking before writing it. And it’s not that what I wrote isn’t true (it all definitely is….), but I didn’t expect it to be surprising to anyone.
Regardless, I’m back (by popular demand) for another go. I’ll do my best to provide more regular entries now as we get closer and closer to D-Day (hopefully he comes a bit early so I don’t have to think of that many intelligent things to write about).
What I thought I’d talk about today was my biggest – and most illogical, and completely impractical (and ultimately irrelevant) – FEAR as we are about to have a brand new baby boy.
What if our son is a Leafs fan?
(*dramatic pause*)
Honestly, the thought of this is absolutely devastating to me. It’s not that I “dislike” the Leafs per say, it’s just that I wish everyone in (or associated with) the organization nothing but continued failure and mediocrity in both their personal and professional lives.
As many of you are already aware (or have become aware through reading this blog), I am an extremely devoted Montreal Canadiens fan. The last month or so has been a rather interesting ride. Our house has been filled with emotions, mood swings, groans, aches, pains, yelling, and potentially a soiled couch cushion or two – plus my wife is pregnant!
I have been a Canadiens fan my whole life, which I attribute to the excellent parenting of two lifelong Habs fans (both of whom grew up in La Belle Province). But our familial situation serves as the perfect backdrop for my fears. My brother – initially a Habs fan when he was younger – became a Leafs fan once he was old enough to develop his own allegiances. He actively chose to support the “other” team in hockey’s most storied rivalry. He often likes to remind me of this, and suggests that this very situation could be brewing with my yet-unborn son (especially if he gets a chance to influence the decision. SIDE NOTE: All future gifts from Uncle “B” to Bug will be vetted to ensure “Leafs-free” content).
What if, however, all of my plans to “condition” my son to being a Habs fan eventually backfire? (Apparently they’ve done some studies, and kids like to rebel against their parents.) Truthfully, it won’t be the end of the world. It may even turn into a fun rivalry between us. The actual concern here, and the reason I bring up these points is all about “shared experiences”. I think that the reason I want so badly for son to share my passion for the Canadiens is that it will mean we will share a strong, specific, bond – something that helps to define our relationship through shared emotions and experience. As I prepare for fatherhood, a big part of me wonders how well I will be able to relate to our son, and what kinds of things we will have in common.
I am a sports fanatic. The Canadiens are – easily – the largest personification of this fact, as I basically live and die with every shot, save, penalty, missed call, goal, etc. But the larger point here is that my passion for sports is a big part of defining who I am. If you ask anyone close to me to explain what I am like as a person, I have no doubt that “sports” (in some regard) will have been mentioned within the first 15 seconds of the description.
So what if my son is into music and computers, and doesn’t particularly care for sports? Or he likes science and the environment, and thinks that professional sports are dumb because the carbon footprint of an NHL arena is too big? It obviously doesn’t mean that I’ll love him any less, or want any less success for him. What it does mean, however, is that I won’t share this specific bond with him. That’s hard to envision. I’m not asking for a little clone of myself (there’s simply no way this world is ready for another one of me), but I certainly hope we’ll have some things we can share and both enjoy as he grows up.
At the end of the day, none of this really matters. I’ll hopefully find a way to relate to him regardless of what he’s passionate about. 90% of parenting is showing up (I made that statistic up 10 seconds ago), and I’ll support him in whatever he’s doing.
And hey, if he’s a Leafs fan, he can always go live with his Uncle.
C
DIY Thank-You's...and Contractions?!
This morning, I'm trying to focus and breathe and stay calm. I woke up at around 5am to go to the bathroom and found myself on the floor, on hands and knees, in a tonne of pain. After having some little mini, not-very-painful, pinching contractions earlier in the day...feeling a stabbing pain going through my back was definitely cause for some early-morning screaming. Poor C just about launched himself across the bed to find out why I was on the floor.
So...let's focus on something positive, happy and uplifting, shall we? Why not Thank-You Cards, made by yours truly!
I am very happy with how they all turned out...all 35 of them! I think I now have enough Thank-You's for my next shower, and any other little notes that I might need to send out.
In terms of the contractions, I'm keeping track of what's going on, when they happen and how severe they are. They haven't caused me to call the doctor just yet, and I'm really hoping that we will be able to make it to our appointment on the 14th without having to make an emergency call to Dr. Jordan. Obviously if it gets more intense, I will make the call but for right now, I'm okay and C is on-call.
Every one's been telling me that Bug's movements will slow down considerably when he's ready to emerge. I have trouble putting much stock into that statement for a few reasons.
1) I have a very small torso...so when he moves even a little, I feel everything
2) I have a large baby in me...well large in proportion to my small torso
However, his movements today have been....different. Not any less frequent persey, but different. I am feeling him roll, squirm and turn rather than kick, ab and punch. And its much lower down that I'm feeling him as well. There are still little flutters here and there, but considering that he's been out of room for the past three weeks anyhow, I have a feeling that I'm not going to immediately recognized the decreased movement, or that his movements are going to stay consistent right until the end.
We've read tonnes about the signs of labour, and consulted many a mommy-friend about what's going on etc. but I guess...you never know until it's really happening to you! We're not quite there yet, but I think we're getting ready!
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Labour & Delivery Bag
I had always intended to pack a bag specifically for C. Whether we sent one of his friends to our house to grab it for him, had it in the car, or forgot it all together, I had always thought it'd be nice to at least have some stuff packed for him.
We got to talking about it, and he said that he didn't need anything...even that he could live in the same t-shirt for three days if he needed to, so long as everything that I needed was in the car and I felt prepared to go. Little does he know that part of me feeling prepared is knowing that he has a bag ready to go, and in the trunk alongside my bag!
At our preregistration meeting on Monday, the nurse suggested that we have a Labour &Delivery Bag in addition to my larger bag and a diaper bag for the baby. Hmmm...perhaps I should be thinking about merging the L&D Bag with C's bag, so that we have everything that we need, all right there for when we're at the birthing centre.
Well! I finished the bag today, and shuffled some of the things from my bag like the tennis ball and my iPod, and Viola! We have a fully stocked L&D Bag!
C's stuff
HABS T-shirt, swim trunks, toilettries, socks and underwear
my stuff
Change of clothes - tshirt, sports bra, socks, underwear, swim suit
Blackberries, camera charger, video camera, video camera charger.
We actually had a big talk about whether or not to pack the video camera. While I absolutely do not want the birth of Bug to be on video, it might be kind of nice to tape things like when we first get to snuggle with him, or when Nana, Grandpa and Grandma Dale meet him for the first time...and react to his name! So....in the bag it goes!
Notice any other funny items in there? LOST Season 4? Gangs of New York? Well....the L&D Nurse suggested bringing some movies since it can take a while. Originally, I was thinking of something lighthearted and fun...like Happy Feet. However...I couldn't find it! Oh well, Gangs will have to do!
Hawt? That boy has no Hawt!!
And LOST was going into the bag either way, the only question was which season? C suggested that it be all that we pack, and start with season 1 since Bug should be here only a couple of weeks after the finale. But Season 4 is when Jack and Juliet meet...and fall in love...and there is just so much ridiculous action, not to mention the emergence of Faraday and crew, that it might prove to be a really great distraction.
There you have it! All of that, alongside a fluffy towel and my pillow that is already in the trunk...and we're getting ever closer to being ready to go to the hospital.
We got to talking about it, and he said that he didn't need anything...even that he could live in the same t-shirt for three days if he needed to, so long as everything that I needed was in the car and I felt prepared to go. Little does he know that part of me feeling prepared is knowing that he has a bag ready to go, and in the trunk alongside my bag!
At our preregistration meeting on Monday, the nurse suggested that we have a Labour &Delivery Bag in addition to my larger bag and a diaper bag for the baby. Hmmm...perhaps I should be thinking about merging the L&D Bag with C's bag, so that we have everything that we need, all right there for when we're at the birthing centre.
Well! I finished the bag today, and shuffled some of the things from my bag like the tennis ball and my iPod, and Viola! We have a fully stocked L&D Bag!
C's stuff
HABS T-shirt, swim trunks, toilettries, socks and underwear
my stuff
Change of clothes - tshirt, sports bra, socks, underwear, swim suit
Blackberries, camera charger, video camera, video camera charger.
We actually had a big talk about whether or not to pack the video camera. While I absolutely do not want the birth of Bug to be on video, it might be kind of nice to tape things like when we first get to snuggle with him, or when Nana, Grandpa and Grandma Dale meet him for the first time...and react to his name! So....in the bag it goes!
Notice any other funny items in there? LOST Season 4? Gangs of New York? Well....the L&D Nurse suggested bringing some movies since it can take a while. Originally, I was thinking of something lighthearted and fun...like Happy Feet. However...I couldn't find it! Oh well, Gangs will have to do!
Hawt? That boy has no Hawt!!
And LOST was going into the bag either way, the only question was which season? C suggested that it be all that we pack, and start with season 1 since Bug should be here only a couple of weeks after the finale. But Season 4 is when Jack and Juliet meet...and fall in love...and there is just so much ridiculous action, not to mention the emergence of Faraday and crew, that it might prove to be a really great distraction.
There you have it! All of that, alongside a fluffy towel and my pillow that is already in the trunk...and we're getting ever closer to being ready to go to the hospital.
Waterworks
Thank you, raging hormones, for making me a ball-bag lately. It's crazy the things that I will tear up at lately...commercials being the primary culprit right now.
Like....this one. Well...the Canadian People's version of it anyhow...Especially the end of the commercial, because that will be me...SOON!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yAaHTypIZhE
Like....this one. Well...the Canadian People's version of it anyhow...Especially the end of the commercial, because that will be me...SOON!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yAaHTypIZhE
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
*Knock Knock Knock*
When I came home from our pre-registration appointment yesterday, I noticed that Purolator had been by about an hour earlier. Hmmm...I didn't order anything (shocking, I know!) and wondered if maybe C was trying to be sneaky and order a gift for me for some reason (*cough cough* diaper bag...mother's day).
Well! I trucked over to Purolator this afternoon after a lovely patio lunch with C downtown, to have the fine Purolator lady come out with this massive box from Babies R' Us. WOOHOO!! But...what could it be?! Who was it from?!
There was no information on the outside of the box other than that it was from Babies R' Us, so I drove like a crazy mad-woman back home to open it up in the garage.
From soon-to-be Auntie Sarah and Uncle Bry!!
THANK YOU!!! Today's like Christmas!
Well! I trucked over to Purolator this afternoon after a lovely patio lunch with C downtown, to have the fine Purolator lady come out with this massive box from Babies R' Us. WOOHOO!! But...what could it be?! Who was it from?!
There was no information on the outside of the box other than that it was from Babies R' Us, so I drove like a crazy mad-woman back home to open it up in the garage.
From soon-to-be Auntie Sarah and Uncle Bry!!
THANK YOU!!! Today's like Christmas!
The Essentials...
Yesterday was a big day for The Family Szem...we pre-registered at the hospital where in a few very short weeks, we'll be delivering our son!
It brought a whole lot of comfort to me, personally, to meet with the nurse and go over all of the options that are available to us. We talked about family medical history, any issues that we've had so far with the pregnancy, and any thoughts and concerns as this journey comes to a close and a whole new phase opens up to us.
It got us thinking (well...it got me thinking anyway) about some of the very basic essential baby items that we're missing right now. Bottles, mattress pads, bed sheets....oh gosh!
After a long chat with Godmomma, I realized that cute outfits and snuggly blankets are great, but the essentials are what we need to focus on right now. Thankfully, she's offered us her bassinet so that Bug can sleep in our bedroom for the first couple of weeks and also her baby bath tub to make bathtime a little easier with a squirmy worm.
So, off to Walmart I went in search of bottles and a mattress pad. Originally, we were going to get everything at Babies R' Us, however...it's so expensive there! Thank goodness for bargain shopping!! We at least now have 3 orthodontic bottles, though I do plan to breastfeed (as long as everything cooperates!) and they won't be able to be used for the first 4-6 weeks. We also now have a mattress pad, which hopefully will save the mattress from getting ruined too quickly. And everything at Walmart was half the price than at Babies R' Us!!
So the playpen can wait thanks to the bassinet from Godmomma, as can the high chair for a few months until he's bigger and older and so can the mobile since we have the Sleep Sheep from Kristin at the shower on the weekend. The baby monitor, stroller, milk saver bags, diapers and bedsheets however...I think C and I might go shopping after our baby shower on the 15th to get anything that we still may need.
I asked C last night when I was going to bed to google some lists of Baby Essentials and he smiled, giggled and said "Yes Honey...but you do know that he's not coming tomorrow, right?" He then reassured me that one way or another, everything will get taken care of. He also reassured me that we're more that ready...he has a roof over his head, two parents who love each other and him very much, and a car seat that will be bringing him home shortly.
So....experienced Mommy's that read this blog daily (which I thank you for by the way!)....what are some of the essential items that you'd recommend we have at home before Bug gets here??
It brought a whole lot of comfort to me, personally, to meet with the nurse and go over all of the options that are available to us. We talked about family medical history, any issues that we've had so far with the pregnancy, and any thoughts and concerns as this journey comes to a close and a whole new phase opens up to us.
It got us thinking (well...it got me thinking anyway) about some of the very basic essential baby items that we're missing right now. Bottles, mattress pads, bed sheets....oh gosh!
After a long chat with Godmomma, I realized that cute outfits and snuggly blankets are great, but the essentials are what we need to focus on right now. Thankfully, she's offered us her bassinet so that Bug can sleep in our bedroom for the first couple of weeks and also her baby bath tub to make bathtime a little easier with a squirmy worm.
So, off to Walmart I went in search of bottles and a mattress pad. Originally, we were going to get everything at Babies R' Us, however...it's so expensive there! Thank goodness for bargain shopping!! We at least now have 3 orthodontic bottles, though I do plan to breastfeed (as long as everything cooperates!) and they won't be able to be used for the first 4-6 weeks. We also now have a mattress pad, which hopefully will save the mattress from getting ruined too quickly. And everything at Walmart was half the price than at Babies R' Us!!
So the playpen can wait thanks to the bassinet from Godmomma, as can the high chair for a few months until he's bigger and older and so can the mobile since we have the Sleep Sheep from Kristin at the shower on the weekend. The baby monitor, stroller, milk saver bags, diapers and bedsheets however...I think C and I might go shopping after our baby shower on the 15th to get anything that we still may need.
I asked C last night when I was going to bed to google some lists of Baby Essentials and he smiled, giggled and said "Yes Honey...but you do know that he's not coming tomorrow, right?" He then reassured me that one way or another, everything will get taken care of. He also reassured me that we're more that ready...he has a roof over his head, two parents who love each other and him very much, and a car seat that will be bringing him home shortly.
So....experienced Mommy's that read this blog daily (which I thank you for by the way!)....what are some of the essential items that you'd recommend we have at home before Bug gets here??
Monday, May 3, 2010
Photo Session #2!
We had our outdoor photo session this past friday evening and again, Rosita amazes me. Her attention to detail and the way she captured the light was absolutely fantastic!
Here are a few of my favourites, and a link to her sneak peak on her blog.
I can't believe that we haven't seen Bug for....16 weeks!
Please, please go and check out her site! She is fabulous!!
Baby Brunch!
This past weekend, we had a lovely baby shower brunch thrown for us. The table was perfect - it looked like it was right out of Martha Stewart! The company was fantastic, the cake absolutely amazing, and the gifts were incredibly generous!
Beautiful baby's breath in a watering can, the new centerpiece on my own kitchen table. Simple and incredibly elegant.
Scones! I don't know how Kristin knew, but they are probably my absolute most favourite thing in the world. I used to make them when I was little from my Grandma Belle's recipe....yum!
BEAUTIFUL cake from where else...the Whimsical Bakery! Christine even modeled the pregnant lady after yours truly!
All of the incredibly beautiful and generous gifts! So much amazing stuff, it was difficult to choose "favourites" (really...they all are at the top of the list!)
LOVE the Eeyore rattle and piggy bank - so cute! Thanks, Jan!
Did I mention that the onesie has a Tiger on the bum? It makes me giggle everytime I look at it!
From Christine at the bakery..."Get me a cupcake and noone gets hurt" - PERFECT!
Bug's very first puppy...and it looks like my Tony growing up! Thank you SO much Marianne, it just about brought me to tears!
The absolute most softest, cuddliest blanket ever. I washed it last night and wanted to snuggle with it on the couch all night long! Thanks, Karen!!!
Honestly, this is probably my most favourite item that we've received so far. Kristin, the wonderful hostess, made it for Bug and it touched my heart in a way that I cannot even begin to explain. It's perfect...and small...and snuggly...and will be perfect come the fall, and I think may need to make and appearance at Bug's baptism.
We both had a great time, and were pleasantly surprised to find trees planted in the backyard when we got home...despite all of the rain and nasty weather. Another blog entry, for another day.
Thank you for a great brunch Kristin, you are fantastic!
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