Wow, I haven't been here in ages. On Feb 24, 2004 I found out I was pregnant! DH and I are excited and scared and anxious....and many other things. The first few months were kinda rough, I was sooooo tired and didn't have much appetite. I'm not planning on dieting these next few months, but I do want to make sure that I'm putting healthy things into my body, and keeping up physical activity, so I'll be recording that here. My due date is October 27 (it seems so far away). Today, I am exactly 13 weeks along. Last Thursday I got to hear the heartbeat for the first time (158 bpm) that was pretty cool. I'll only be posting the weights I get after going to the dr. Even though I personally think the dr's scale is a tad high (about 4-6 pounds more than my scale at home) oh well. So, as of my last appointment I weighed in at 147 lbs. I had actually lost a few pounds during my first trimester, from not feeling so hot, but dr said that's not unusual, and the weight should start coming on now. Oh Boy!

Congratulations to you! You will go through all of those emotions (scared, excited, etc.) for the rest of your life as a mother! Congratulations again, hope everything turns out well.

Congratulations to you, nikic! :rose:
Wishing you the best and will be following your "progress" lol.

Congratulations ! It's an amazing journey ! Take the time to enjoy it all . My girl is almost 4 yrs and I still cannot believe it . It goes by so fast .

Thanks for stopping by Summering, Aria, and Jennylea! I don't have too much to report today. I still am not eating very much, and am probably not getting the right amount of calories in.
So far today I had cheerios for breakfast, decaf tea (no sugar or cream), 3 grahm crackers, some almonds, chocolate milk. For Lunch I'm having an italian hoagie (bad, I know) Dinner will be eaten out as it is DH's birthday today. I did stock up on fruits and veggies at the grocery store this morning. I usually just drink water (except for milk). I am feeling lots better than I had been, even just a week ago. Next focus will be to get back in a regular exercise routine. Will probably be going on a bike ride this Sunday.
A lady at work told me today that I'm getting a little belly, how strange!

Feeling pretty good today. Last night I ended up having soup and salad for dinner. I'm trying to avoid fried foods when we go out. I have to get my exercising back on track. I have a prenatal yoga video that I'd like to do at work during lunch. I really miss my yoga class at the gym, I haven't been to it for a little while now. Goal for next week is to attend that class. We are planning a bike ride for Sunday, as long as it's not storming.

So far today; Cheerios w/strawberries, tea planning; apple and almond snack, sandwhich and maccaroni salad lunch, veggies or fruit cup as snack maybe some pretzals too if I go with the fruit cup, will probably end up having pizza for dinner.

It seems like my belly is growing alot this week, pants that were comfy last week were a little snug this morning, but I'm wearing them anyway, I have some gc to target, so I'll probably go there this weekend and try and get some new stretchy clothes.

Congratulations! You have a wonderful journey ahead of you! I am also expecting and am at 25 weeks right now. It is awesome to watch the belly grow! I just love mine-just wait until it starts moving.

I look forward to reading about your journey. It's been tough trying to eat healthy all the time, but simply trying to eat better has been most beneficial!

PS. I agree with you about those doctor scales!

Thanks Whisper, and congratulations to you too! Have you found out yet if you are having a boy or a girl? Are you in Bucks County PA?? I live in Montgomery county.

I am starting to get worried that I am not gaining weight, wow, I have NEVER said that before. Hardly anything ever sounds good to me, nothing substantial anyway. I'm sure I will be kicking myself for saying this in a few months once I have started packing on the pounds. During the weekend I had cereal for breakfast. For lunch on Saturday we went out for my mom's birthday. I ended up eating salad, a biscuit, mashed potatoes (yum) and a few shrimp. I didn't have dinner that night because I fell asleep really early. Yesterday I had cereal w/strawberries, some raw veggies and cheese for lunch and half of a cheesesteak for dinner. and some ice cream too, bad I know, but I acutually felt like eating. We didn't get to go for that bikeride, but did a couple hours worth of yard work Sunday that left my legs aching today, so that must count for something.

DH was comment yesterday that my moods lately have been a complete turnaround, he's happy that I have some energy back, and have been more myself lately. So am I. I didn't get to do much shopping this weekend, but my mom bought me a maternity shirt, she said she just couldn't resist, I won't be able to wear it for a little while though, at least a few weeks, I'm guessing.

Today is boring, had cheerios w/strawberries and my tea for breakfast. Have tons to do here at work. Will probably get a salad for lunch when I go out to return library books. No exercise planned for today, have to go down to the college after work to pick up commencement things. I am planning on that yoga class tom night though. Dinner will probably be tuna salad sandwhiches and fries, I have to remember to buy bread.

Ugh, I have constant indigestion, like acid reflux or something, it stinks. I get it from eating anything! Last night I had a soft pretzal, chocolate milk, and more cereal to finish out the day.

Today so far I've had a very small piece of blueberry breakfast cake, some grahm crackers and my tea. Planning another salad for lunch, I just can't get enough salad!!! I've also had some almonds. Will probably snack thru the day on wheatables, apple, low-fat cheese. Still planning on that yoga class tonight. I'm stopping by my mom's house first, so I'll probably end-up eating something there too. Maybe I'll actually get around to making that tuna tonight.

This morning I really started to notice my belly rounding out, it used to only stick out at the end of the day, but this morning it was poofing out already. I can't believe there is actually a teeny tiny little baby in there!

Hello nikic, just checking on you to see how you are doing :) So, your mom just couldn't resist the maternity dress, huh? LOL
They are all alike. Wait until she becomes a grandma!

My mom is excited, it's cute, it makes me more excited.

DH and I went out with friends last night, so I still haven't made that dang tuna. I spent too much time with my sister after work, and didn't make it to my yoga class, plus I forgot my mat :shrug: I haven't been to the gym in a month, I really need to get back on track, I have a little more energy, and I don't want to be all out of shape.

I made plans for a long weekend at the beach in June, so I'm looking forward to that. We should know if we are having a boy or a girl by then (if we're able to find out) So maybe I'll be able to get some shopping done at the outlets.

I was talking with the ladies here at work yesterday, and was telling them how I haven't gained any weight yet, and they were all like "really??????" Maybe I am just being sensitive, but I wonder if they were thinking I'm looking chunky, so how could I have NOT gained anything. I do think my weight just redistributed, I probably lost some from my legs and arms, and it's all settling in my belly and boobs.

Yesterday's eating wasn't too bad, cereal, sandwhich, apple, some pretzals, soft pretzal and chocolate milk ( 8-| ) and finally made that tuna for dinner.

I did some yard work yesterday when I got home, so that was my exercise. I got all freaked out because when I came in the house there was some kind of bug, i think it was a misquito stuck to my neck and my neck was actually bleeding a little when I pulled it off. The rest of the night I was convinced I was going to die or that I had contracted west nile. so far, so good though, I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

How are you feeling? I'm sure the bug thing is nothing, but itsn't it funny how concerned you get over things like that now that there is a baby growing! I've freaked out more than once in the last couple of months.

I wouldn't worry about the lack of weight gain (consider yourself lucky). I've read that some women don't gain anything in the first trimester (I was not one of those). I'm sure the ladies at work didn't mean anything by what they said. I've learned that people will say and tell you all sorts of things. I was told in one day that I looked really thin and then someone else told me later that my face was rounder and filling out. Gee Thanks! If you are still concerned though, talk to your doctor.

I just got an ultrasound the other day! I could see the profile of my baby. I don't want to know the sex so the technician didn't even show me that area. I am getting so excited to meet this tiny person!

Have a great weekend and take care of yourself!

PS. Yes, I live in Bucks County just minutes from Philly. I'm actually not far from you - I live in Bensalem.

Whisper, I'm glad you stopped by again. Did you hear that the horse from our area won the Kentucky Derby? I don't really follow horse racing, but I thought that was kind of exciting.

I am really begining to feel like myself again, I am eating a little more, now I just need to be sure and make the right food choices. I think that the second trimester goodness is starting to happen. I wore my one and only maternity shirt yesterday. It's funny how maternity-wear can make you look pregnant, I felt kinda funny wearing it, but I figured it was better to look like I had a little prego tummy rather than just a fat middle.

One of the ladies at worked told me today that I look good, and was "glowing", so that made me feel better, the ladies at work are on my good side again :D

Went grocery shopping yesterday finally, and got some nutritious things for lunch and snacks. I am all equipped to go to the gym today, I double checked to make sure I had everything, clothes, shoes, mat, check. I think I'll go to power pump class tonight. I'm making tacos for dinner tonight. Also need to make sure I get a load of laundry in, I quickly run out of the few things that fit me.

:balloons: :balloons:I went to the gym!!! :balloons:

I actually went to my power pump class last night! It felt really good. Some things were uncomfortable to do, so I modified, and tried not to over-do-it. Then I actually made tacos for dinner, I didn't get to do laundry, but all in all I thought last night was a success.

Today I'm going to try to do my yoga video at work in the conference room during lunch, as long as no-one else is in there. DH is home from work today, so I'll probably pickup some chinese to eat for dinner.

Daily menu is usually some variation of following-
Breakfast - english muffin w/low sugar jelly and margerine and my pg tea
Snack - fruit (either orange or apple) with a few pretzals
Lunch - turkey and cheese sandwhich on whole wheat w/mustard, sometimes a few chips or grapes
Snack - wheat cracker w/cheese, or zone bar before gym (zone bar before exercise)
Dinner - Varies
Drink mostly water or milk, or sometimes homemade decaf iced tea.

I was so tired last night I fell asleep on the couch. I did have chinese food, so hopefully I will not want it again for awhile. I made my ultrasound appointment for June 4th--I hope we are able to find out the sex!!

I forgot my english muffin for breakfast, but found that someone at work brought in homemade sticky buns, so I had one of those with my strawberries and tea, bad, bad. The office is getting pizza for lunch, I ordered mine w/extra veggies, so I will try and eat extra healthy for the rest of the day.

Tonight I'm going to power pump again at the gym, then I would really like to stay for yoga class, but will leave if I'm feeling too exhausted.

It seems like I'm getting my appetite back and putting some weight back on, that's good, I guess.

I made it thru power pump and yoga last night. I really missed my yoga class. I hadn't gone for over a month and I was stiff with some of my poses. I'm not able to do some of the inverted stuff anymore, so I'm trying out some alternatives to moves like the cobra and bridge. I had veggie soup and salad for dinner last night and a few of dh boneless buffalo wings.

Today I remembered my breakfast, so I started off the day better than yesterday aside from being terribly late to work. I really need to get up earlier now that my morning routine has changed a bit. I am planning leftover veggie soup and grilled cheese on wheat for dinner tonight. I do want to get some cardio in at the gym, just a 1/2 hour, then some stretching.

I need to get my mother something for mothers' day, but I have no ideas, maybe pajamas????????

I am craving brownies, I may cave in and make some this weekend with walnuts, yum. If I do though, I will take 1/2 of them to my friend's house when I go over there on Saturday.

I need new bras!!!!!! Sorry, just had to get that out of the way. On to other things.

I am excited for this weekend, planning on garage saling Saturday morning. I am hoping to make a few baby purchases. Saturday night I am going out with some friends to see a movie. We'll see either "13 going on 30" or "mean girls". Sunday I will stop by my mom's at some point.

Diet was pretty good yesterday, went for a long walk after work with the dog down to the creek. I'll probably try to finish the yard work tonight when I get home from work as long as the weather holds up. I've been guzzling milk like crazy, which is strange for me, but I figure I could be having worse things.

Enjoy your weekend!

Had a fun weekend. I bought a crib and changing table on Saturday. I love them and only paid $40 for both! DH set them up in the spare room already. It is starting to look like a baby's room except for the walls needing to be painted, and all of my junk still being in there. :) My belly is starting to poke out now, but I still look tubby, not pg. I think I'm back to my starting weight, but I'm not sure, I'll find out for sure at my dr appointment next Monday. I didn't have the healthiest foods this weekend, but I didn't overeat either. I didn't get much exercise in, but I'm headed back to the gym today. It is supposed to be hot and muggy all week, so I'm glad for my gym membership.

Happy Mother's Day (for the expecting)!

I'm glad things are going well with you. Kudos to you for going to the gym. I wish I had really stuck to a plan throughout this pregnancy. I'd pop into the gym here and there, but sometimes two weeks or more would pass. Right now I'm at that stage that I can only walk on the treadmill at 3.0 miles per hour.

My husband and some of his friends went to the Race track this weekend to watch horse races. I don't know if Smarty Jones was there or not, but they all seemed pretty excited.

Hubby and I are working on the nursery ourselves. We just spent the last two weeks organizing and getting all of our things out of the room. He will be painting soon and I am looking forward to getting the furniture in there. I actually had my first surprise Baby Shower saturday night (people at my work through me one)! I can't believe the generosity.

Well, I hope you continue to feel well. I'm dreading this heat, but only 12 more weeks to go for me!

Happy Mothers Day to you too (belated)! Only 12 more weeks to go, that is exciting. I have 24 to go, but who's counting :D

My new goal is to get up a little earlier in the morning so that I can make and eat a proper breakfast. It would be so nice, especially now that it's warmer outside, to sit down and eat in the mornings. Maybe even out on the deck--dare to dream. Went to power pump last night, I took it a little easier than usual, was afraid of becoming overheated. I may have to stop going to some of the classes, I'm sticking with yoga though. I will soon have to move my routine onto treadmill/bike and then some light weights and stretching. I think I will try and pick-up a fit pregnancy mag for ideas of what kind of toning exercises would be beneficial.

I am really looking forward to my next dr appointment on Monday. I always start to get a little anxious before each one, worried whether or not everything is still ok. It is so reassuring to hear that little heart beat. DH has off work that day too, so he may want to come with me. He hasn't heard the heart beat yet, has only seen it on ultrasound. I think I will also have to go for bloodwork after the appt, for the triple screen test. DH was so sweet last night, he told me that I looked pretty, boy did I need to hear that, even if it wasn't true, I feel like a frump.

NikI!.. thought I would pop in on ya! WOW.. 24 more weeks to go!.. there is a cute counter you can get at www.lilypie.com to add to your signatures on the board!.. I beleive that is the website.. also www.daystogo.com .. :) Have you checked out babycenter yet? :)

Sorry--I am just a FANATIC when it comes to having babies.. as I have 4 I am sure you know that.

There is a GREAT workout video that I highly recommend .. it is called FitMama .. forgetting who the instructor is..I bought the tape from babycenter, I did the video twice but then got put on bedrest for bleeding early on (14wks).. had some sorta placental tear.. anyhow.. oh!.. the name is Lisa Hart.. I beleive :) it just came to me. There is salsa dancing and what not in there.. and it is QUITE new compared to the Older boring tapes that are out there still (wonder when those will come off the shelves lol)..

odd thing.. I did happen to order the fitpregnancy mag.. and for some reason they only sent me pregnancy mag.. and now, that the 9 months is up.. they are sending me subscription things for fitness mag.. hmmm i have still yet to see a fit pregnancy mag.. where are you getting yours? I guess I dont venture out enough to find one.. maybe I will have dh find one for me (not that I need it now lol but may in the near future!) ;)

take care girl! Hope you are feeling well and energetic and wishing you ALL the best! btw--are you going to find out what the baby is?--sorry if I missed it before. .I think you said you were going to but I may be mistaking about that...

Thanks for the link, I posted the lilypie ticker. Yes, I want to find out if the baby is a boy or girl, ultrasound is scheduled for June 4th, I can't wait!!! I hope this baby isn't shy.

I had a pretty good day yesterday eating-wise. Even had carrots w/my sandwhich instead of chips. I didn't get any formal exercise, but did some yardwork when I got home. It was really hot out so I took it easy and drank lots of water. I forgot my lunch, so I guess I will go across the street for a salad today. McDonalds has those new adult happy meals w/salad, drink and a pedometer for a toy, I might try that, or hit the salad bar at the grocery store, decsions, decisions.

I'm wearing my yard sale maternity pants today, they are soooooo comfy, I'm letting it all hang out! I can't wait to hit the yard sales again on Saturday, so many good deals!

Today is power pump again, then yoga, I hope they have the air conditioner truned up at the gym.

Hey Niki!..

Noticed you wear garage sale maternity pants.. wanted to let you know that I purchased 5 maternity pants (gap, motherood..etc) from EBAY and only paid 12 bucks WITH shipping.. it was a GREAT deal as they were and still are in WONDERFUL condition!.. they are those capri ones even..really cute! :) I personally would never spend that much money that they charge in the shops for maternity pants, cuz well it IS only a short while, innit?.. if you can get a deal, grab it!!!

BTW.. i have never heard of the adult happy meals.. must ask dh as he is always eating out.. and what the heck is a pedometer dear?? lol really blank on that word here, help me out!

I love the lilypie thing.. for some reason I didnt get the one with the cute flower bonnet on the baby.. odd.. ah well.. those days are done, he is already here!

soooo if you are finding out the gender, PLZ let all of know!!!! I kept my little guy a secret, but knew at 14wks :) he wasnt shy at all.. lol

anyway.. june 4th is easy for me to remember, it is my little ones bday (she will be 2) soooo I will be sure to check in here for sure on that day!! HOPE YOU POST IT!! ;)

take it easy and DONT give in to tooooo many cravings that are bad ;) don't wanna gain like I did, that is for SURE! 8-|


Best Wishes!!!

Power pump and yoga were good, I am starting to get more comfortable with what I can and can't do. Yoga felt soooooo good last night, I really needed that focus on meditation and breathing and stretching. Ahhhh.

I am not doing so well with my getting-up-earlier goal, but my eating has not been too horrendous, so I'll let myself slide for now. 8-| No gym today, I have to do some house cleaning when I get home. So that will be my exercise. I know that sweating will be involved since it's 90 degrees outside.

I am already looking forward to hitting the yard sales again this weekend. I hope I'm able to find some good buys again. One of my friends is lending me some maternity clothes, she's dropping them off on Monday, I could use them, I'm running out of stuff to wear to work. I think my belly has popped out in the last few days, I had dh take a picture of it yesterday, it's so funny looking :D

Thanks for the tip, I will probably check-out e-bay, I easily get addicted to that site though, and end-up buying more than what I actually need. :shrug:
I can't wait to find out if we are having a boy or a girl, I'll be sure to share, I know I would not be able to keep it to myself even if I wanted to (I have a feeling it's a boy, we'll see if I'm right or not).
By the way, pedometer is a thing you strap to your ankle and it keeps track of how many steps you have taken, some people use them w/exercise goals ie; i will walk at least 1500 steps/day or something like that.

No formal exercise yesterday, but I did a major cleanup in the house. I'm glad I got the majority of the cleaning done on last night, now my weekend can be devoted solely to relaxation. It is still unseasonably hot, but is supposed to cool off a little by Sunday.

Tom night is my little sister's prom, I can't wait to see her and her date all dressed up. I hope it doesn't rain, at least until after they get there. I want to be able to take some outside pics of them in the yard.

I can feel the baby move sometimes, especially at night, when I'm trying to find a comfy position to go to sleep. It's funny, such a strange feeling, all fluttery, kind of feels like being tickled from the inside.

Going to the gym today, treadmill, stretching and some freeweights for my arms, then going to see the nutritionist at the healthfood store.

Dr appointment on Monday morning, I hope that everything goes ok.

Good weekend, picked up a snugli, and vibrating chair for the baby. One of my friends also passed on some baby toys. I have plenty of stuff for now, at least until the room is cleaned and de-cluttered. Eating was not too horrible, had some balanced meals. No exercise except for walking around at yardsales on Saturday morning.

My little sister and her date looked so cute going to the prom, she said they had a good time.

I met with the nutritionist on Friday, I got a powdered vitamin, separate folic acid vitamins, and some cod liver oil--sounds gross, but it's not really all that bad, and is supposed to have many, many benefits that outwiegh the nasty aftertaste :)

Dr appt this morning also went well. DH was able to come along, and got to hear the heartbeat. The dr I had today was so nice and let us listen to the hb for a long time. He said everything was fine. My weight was 148, so I gained a whole pound since my last visit, he seemed pleased that at least my weight was going up, not down. Then I had to go for blood tests, not my favorite thing.

I need to go grocery shopping tonight, I'll probably go after power pump--after stopping at home first for dinner.

Power pump was so crowded last night, but it was still fun, I'm sure my arms will be burning tom. Tonight I'm going to the gym again, treadmill, then some weights and stretching. This week is going to be pretty busy; commencement rehearsal tom afternoon, commencement Thursday night, birthday party on Friday for my nephew, and trying to get the house clean and the laundry done in-between.
I've been having appetite issues again. I'm never really hungry for anything. For a couple of weeks I thought that my appetite had been picking up, but now it seems to be decreasing. Oh well, maybe it will just keep going up and down, so I'll be sure to eat all the nutritious things I should be eating at those times when I actually feel like eating.

Gym was good last night, I watched Dr Phil while on the treadmill. I'm glad that he's able to help some people, but I can't imagine going on national television to hash out my personal problems in front of millions of people--just seems like that would put an extra strain on things.

Have to go to rehearsal this morning, then I want to hopefully, quickly buy some kind of sundress type thing to wear under my gown tom night.

Eating is...ok, I am still getting up entirely too late. I want to wake up earlier so I can have my breakfast at home, warm, instead of eating it at my desk, cold. Have been taking my new vitamins, they are ok I guess. The cod liver oil is strange, it doesn't taste bad (or good) it has a very weird consistency. It's oily of course, and it never gets cold even though I keep it in the fridge, it always seems to be room temperature. :shrug: It is supposed to be good for me, so I will continue to take it.

Graduation Day!!!!! I'm finally graduating college after going part-time for 6 years!!!!! I actually finished classes in December, but today is official graduation.

Power pump and yoga at the gym last night. I love yoga, I do have to look into modifying some more of my poses though, now that I'm growing. I got good exercise, but then went downhill a bit by having potatoe skins for dinner. I didn't eat badly earlier in the day though, so I will forgive myself. I still took my vitamins and yicky cod liver oil. Hopefully soon I will get used to the strange consistency.

Nothing much to write, feel pretty good. Pretty busy at work, so I guess I'd better go anyway.

Time to play catch-up. Still doing well. I've been getting to the gym 3-5 times per week, and have been staying pretty active, so I'm proud of that. Could do better with my eating, I'm working on it. Could be doing better with taking my vitamins too, but I'm trying. I have been taking the cod liver oil, and it's not so bad anymore.

On June1st we had our BIG ultrasound, and found out that we are having a GIRL! I am so excited! So is my mom, she's already started buying clothes. I went shopping with my best friend last Saturday. She's due in September and also having a girl! We bought bathing suits. I ended up getting a tankini, not maternity, but it has some room to grow in it. I don't feel like I'm showing very much right now, but I probably will be come August. I modeled the suit for DH and he said it looked cute, so I guess I'm ok with it.

I'm feeling pretty ok with my weight gain and stuff so far, I actually feel more fit that I did at the begining of last summer when I wasn't pg. I'm getting some nice tone in my arms from power pump. People keep telling me that I look small, and really good for being 5 months along, so even though sometimes I do want a big ole pg belly, I'll just have to be patient, because it will get here eventually, and then I'll probably complain about how uncomfortable I am.

I can feel the baby moving around pretty often, it's neat! I can't wait until dh can feel her kicking! We've begun to discuss names, but I have a feeling it will be a little while before we decide on something.......maybe not until October.

Went to the gym last night, treadmill for 1/2 an hour then some stretching and a few ball exercises. Tonight is my big gym night-power pump and yoga. I am having to pee all the time today, so I hope I can make it thru those classes at the end of the day.

It is so hot here lately, going up to 93 today! Luckily I work inside. We had to turn on the a/c at home last night too. I finally got to the grocery store yesterday, and stocked up on lots of fruit. Had blueberries and waffles this morning-yum, and even got my vitamin in. I brought a turkey sandwhich and a peach for lunch today, not sure what we'll be having for dinner yet, probably chicken and broccoli. I know that dh will want to go out, but I can't eat anymore fried, bready restraunt food. I know that I'm starting to gain weight--I'm supposed to after all--but I don't want to pack on too much too quickly. Plus, I'm going to the beach next weekend, so I want to save-up some of my pigging out to be used down there on boardwalk fries and ice cream :D

Well it turns out that I can eat fatty, bready foods. I had a cheese steak for dinner last night. The rest of the day was pretty good though, breakfast was waffles and blueberries, 1/2 soft pretzal and grapes for snack, turkey and cheese sandwhich and carrots for lunch, and a peach. Grapes and cheese for pre-gym snack and a few pretzals. I took all my vitamins yesterday and my cod liver oil. I also made it thru power pump and yoga. My back was aching a little last night, it feels fine today though.

She has started moving around so much lately. It is a strange feeling. I think it may have to do with me chugging orange juice in the am that I mix with my vitamin.

Pretty busy weekend planned, graduation parties, dinner with friends, cleaning house,and clearing back room so that dh can paint. I'd like to get the last bit of yard work done too.

Monday I have another dr appointment already. Will get to hear the heartbeat again, I love that! And hopefully they will have the results of my quad squreening blood test. I hope that everything was ok, I haven't heard anything from them as of yet, so I assume no news is good news. I always get a little nervous before going to the dr, I can't help it. I hope that everything is still fine.

My menu for today is pretty much the same as yesterday, only I think I really will make chicken and broccoli for dinner, and maybe some flavored noodles for dh--I don't think I'll be able to get him to eat the broccoli.
Gym tonight again after work, treadmill and some stretching.

I finally made the chicken-it was good! Also had a fudge pop after dinner :D

I'll be skipping the gym today, I want to go home right after work tonight and start on some of the housework. I know that I won't get around to doing it tom, and Sunday it's supposed to be so nice out I don't want to be stuck inside with laundry and cleaning. I think we'll probably go down to the creek on Sunday, it's so pretty down there.

I should get at least some exercise Saturday morning, I plan on doing some yard-saling and I usually get lots of walking in that way. This time next week I will be at the beach-yahoo! I hope the weather is a little nicer, but even if it isn't it will still be nice to get away.

I am still feeling tired alot of the time, I thought that the second trimester was supposed to bring more energy, maybe I will add some more iron to my daily vitamins.

Hi Nikic,

It looks like you are coming along. Congrats on learning that your baby is a girl. I have a feeling that I am having a girl, too. Of course the minute I say that I feel guilty because just 'what if' it is a boy!

You are choosing all the right foods so I am sure you won't be gaining too much. I am at my last weeks and am gaining steadily.

Enjoy your time at the beach.

Hi Whisper, I'm glad that things are going along well for you, do you have names all picked out yet?

This weekend was nice, and busy. I did get the house clean on Friday night. Saturday went to yard sales and got a few tops for myself, Larges :) I also bought this great tote bag and a book to take to the beach. Did some yard work at home, went to graduation picnic, then met friends later on for dinner-whew!

Sunday was a little more laid-back, it wasn't as warm out as we had planned on so we skipped the creek, and went out with another couple and drove golf balls, then went out to lunch. DH and I stopped by my mom's house and hung out there for a little while. Later on two of our firiends came over for a little bit.

My menu choices were not great, but I did get in plenty of activity. I'm actually looking forward to getting back to the gym today, I'm really enjoying the toning and strength I'm getting from power pump.

Hey Nikic!

Thanks for stopping by my journal.

I've been researching the diabetics diet all morning. Hoping to try that out and see if I feel better. I don't know if I'm diabetic, but the diet sounded healthy.

Congrats on the little-one-on-the-way!!! :x Love babies!!!

cactus. :)

just got back from Dr, weight is at 151 now, so I'm back to where I started at my very first appointment! Heart rate was 138 (for baby, not me :D ) Dr said all seems well.


Hi Cactus! Glad you stopped by :)

Went to see the movie "Saved" last night with my little sister. It was funny. My sister goes to a Christian high school, so some of the things in the film she could really relate to.

Diet yesterday was ok, not great, I stopped at Wendy's for dinner before the movie cause it was quick and cheap. I got nuggets and fries, but just drank water. Also had peanut M&M's at the movies. I did go to the gym after work yesterday so hopefully that offset my little splurge. I need to go to the grocery store yet again for more fruit and stuff to snack on, also more juice to mix with my vitamin. Only 3 more days until the Beach!!!!!! I can't wait to see the ocean.

I felt so bad for DH yesterday, he had some kind of stomache bug. I hope I don't catch it! He seems to be recovered now, so I guess it was just a one day thing.

Gym again last night, only did 30 minutes on the bike. I haven't been on the bike in a long time, and I could really feel those different muscles working. Tonight is power pump and yoga night. I have to make sure I take it slow, especially during power pump since it is so hot out lately, even though the gym is air conditioned, it is still hotter than usual. Had soup and the yummiest salad for dinner last night (followed by yet another fudge pop :D )

Beach Countdown = 2 days!!!!!!!!!

It would be nice if dh could get the baby's room painted this weekend while I'm away, but he's working on another project right now too, so I'm not really counting on it. Then I could get the bedding and stuff together, maybe then it would actually look like a nursery.

I got all of our spare change together last night from around the house. I'm taking it to one of those coin counting things at the bank today. I'm curious to see how much money we had lying around the house. I'm hoping for at least $50 or $60. I will feel a little self-concious hauling all of my change into the bank, but I suppose others do it. :shrug:

My pants today are entirely too tight, I think I'm going to have to retire them soon. I hope they make it thru the day.

I leave for the Beach tom morning!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have sooooo much stuff to get done at work, so hopefully my day will go quickly.

Last night power pump and yoga were great, even though it was a little hot. I'm sad because my yoga teacher is leaving and we're getting someone new, I hope that they are just as good. I've been eating too much chocolate lately, not sure what to do about that. I know I'll be eating a good amount of junk this weekend, but maybe after I get home I will have to make a better effort to eat more nutritiously, and stay away from sugary, salty snacks.

My diet was Terrible this weekend, but I knew it would be. I didn't eat all that much, but it was not healthy food!! Oh well, I'm hoping I got that out of my system. I'm going to use up all of the junk left in our house, then the next time I go grocery shopping it will be for nutritious healthwise things. I am starting to gain weight now, the scale is going up, up, up! We went out for breakfast, I had fries, funnel cake, ice cream and pizza. I also did much walking (and shopping$$).

I think dh had a good time being a bachelor this weekend, we did miss eachother though, and it was nice to come home. I got a little sun-burnt, but I usually do every year so no big surprise there. I wore my monstrous pink bathing suit. It felt so strange to have my belly covered up! I'm skipping the gym tonight because I'm tired and sunburnt, plus I need to get myself unpacked and my laundry done. Back to the gym tommorow though.

OK, so I lied, I'm not going to the gym today. I didn't unpack or do my laundry last night, I was sooooo tired. I'm hoping to get that stuff done after work today. Today is mine and dh's 3rd wedding anniversary, so we are going out to dinner, I mad reservations for 8:00. I do plan on going to the gym tom though, gotta go to my power pump and yoga classes. I have my South Beach Diet book with me to glance over. I'm not planning on dieting, but the food choices for phase 2 are very healthy and close to the eating plan that I should be following so I've decided to use it as a guide.

I took my belly button ring out last night. My belly looks so naked now without it. I hope that the hole doesn't stretch out really big and look funny. I may put different barbells thru to hold the piercing. I have some thinner stretchy ones. I plan on going to Babies R Us on Saturday morning to get officially started on a registry. I know that my aunts are all itching to go out and buy baby things. Maybe I'll indulge and buy something too. DH didn't get to primer the walls last weekend in the baby's room. We'll probably end-up paying my BIL to do it, he is painting a room downstairs for us also. I can't wait until everything is ready for her to be here -- I can't wait until she is actually here!

Back to the gym tonight finally, I haven't been there since last Thursday. I'm really looking forward to yoga. DH and I went out for dinner last night, it was good, had chicken breast with a cheese/tomato/spinach filling. The chairs at the restaurant were very uncomfy, my butt is still sore :o

I did all this research on baby stuff yesterday and I am now feeling equipped to do my registry on Saturday. I also ordered a bedding set from overstock.com, it was only $50 with shipping, so I just had to get it, considering that the other one I was considering was $180, set for my bed was not even that expensive!! I am in need of furniture. I need a corner cabinet for the dining room so that I have a place to store the "good china", right now it is taking up soon to be needed closet space. I also want a bureau for our bedroom so that I can move my dressers into the baby's room for her things. BIL may come over to paint this weekend. I hope so.

My diet is still not great. I need to get more serious about meal planning. Next time I go grocery shopping I want to buy a huge pack of chicken breasts that I can have to grill or bake anytime. My belly is really starting to pop out now, I want to be sure to keep my weight under control, it is just to easy to eat whenever and whatever.

I'm having all of these weird dreams lately, very vivid. Going to sleep is such an adventure anymore.

Did yoga and power pump last night. There was a substitute instructor for power pump, it's nice to get some variety once in awhile, but I like the regular teacher better. Yoga was nice and relaxing as usual. We went out last night again, I had 1/2 a cheesesteak. I really need to get to the grocery store this weekend and get my eating in check. Tonight I plan on going to the gym again, treadmill, then some stretching.

I have to interview today at work for my new secretary, who will also be handling alot of things while I'm on maternity leave. I hope I can find someone who will work out ok.

Didn't go to the gym again last night. My aunt was down for the day from Connecticut so we went out to dinner instead. I did have lots of veggies and chicken so at least my eating wasn't too bad. It was really nice to see her also. She brought a crib bedding set with her, I told her that I had just ordered one. I did get the new bedding set that I ordered and now I'm not sure if I like it or not. I'll probably keep it because it's very neutral, and I would like to do the whole room in earthy/neutral colors. I do plan on getting to the gym tonight, then I have some housework to catch-up on.

Had a horrible eating weekend. Not too much food, just all junk! No wonder I feel so tired all of the time. I am going grocery shopping today for healthy things, after all, it's not just me that I'm trying to keep healthy right now. Had a busy day on Saturday. Went to some yard sales, then went to Babies R Us to start my registry. I registered for what seemed like a ton of stuff, but there are still so many things that I didn't even put on the registry! I will definately have to go back, or maybe I will be able to complete the registry online. I also stopped at borders and got a natural childbirth book, and a yoga for pregnancy book. I would like to practice myself a little in the morning before work.

Planning for the gym tonight-power pump. I really need to start getting things more organized around the house. It will help me to relax more if things feel settled.

What is wrong with me? After a vacation, even a short one, I just can't get back into routine. I didn't go to the gym last night, and I didn't go grocery shopping. It's like I'm sabotaging my healthiness!!!

Goals for today: Go to the gym after work!!!!!
Go to grocery store, buy good foods!!!!

Rant over (I think) :o

I think we are going over to a friend's house tonight for dinner, hopefully we are just eating there and not going out. On the baby front-dh felt her kick last night, it was so cute.

Our dinner with friends got cancelled last night again. Maybe they are trying to avoid us - just kidding, he's on call for work this week and keeps having to go out on jobs. Maybe we will finally get together with them tonight.

I didn't go to the gym last night, but I did go grocery shopping. I had my vitamin and a healthy breakfast this morning. Tonight is power pump and yoga, so I will be going to the gym. Now I just need to get my butt there on Thursday and Friday too.

We're hosting a 4th of July picnic on Sunday. My MIL is bringing everything, but she wants to have it at our house. That should be fun, I enjoy having people over and it gives me motivation to clean the house.

We finally got to see our friends last night, they had major news for us, they are getting married in August and expecting a baby in March! I'm so excited! I didn't make it to yoga class last night because we met them at 7:00, but I did go to power pump. I'm planning on going to the gym agian tonight--maybe I'll ride the bike, then some stretching. I really want ice cream, so after dinner tonight I may walk down to the ice cream place, but my deal with myself is I can only have it if I walk there to get it. My eating was much improved yesterday. I found that having healthy choices around to eat really helped alot. I didn't even want extra junk food. The baby has been kicking and moving around so much, it's such a strange feeling, but neat too. I feel like my stomache hasn't really popped out yet, but I'm starting to get uncomfortable in some sleep positions. I think I may need to add a few more pillows to the bed.

Hi Nikic,

How are things? It seems like you are making many preparations for the baby! Registering was quite overwhelming and I did a lot of adding online, too. In a few more weeks that baby will really be kicking and you will really pop (all baby of course) all of a sudden. I remember wondering if I would ever really look pregnant and now when I look at pictures, the change is unbelievable.

Having healthy choices around the house is definitely a good idea. I soon felt that the baby was wanting more carrots than that chocolate chip cookie. The one thing I treat myself with is icecream. It looks like you like it too!

Take it easy! Enjoy all the preparations. I will be checking your progress!

Whisper-it's always nice to hear from you, glad you're doing well.

Yesterday's eating was not too bad, I made taco salad for dinner. I didn't get any icecream, but I did have some chocolate milk. Made it to the gym and did 1/2 hour on the eliptical, then some stretching and work on the ball.

I'm so glad it's Friday, I've been looking forward to the weekend since Monday. Tonight I need to get some housework done, we're having a picnic on the 4th of July, and I don't want anyone to see my house the way it looks now! I'll probably end up shopping again Saturday morning, that seems to be my usuall routine.

We got some sad news tonight, friends of ours that were due to have a baby in January had a miscarriage. I was so upset :c( It makes me worried that everything is ok with our little girl. I'm so attached to her already. My next dr appointment isn't until July 12th, then I will be reassured hearing her heart beat again. I don't mind so much now all the kicking, at least it lets me know that she's ok in there.

What a wonderful long weekend. I did not want to come to work this morning. Saturday I did go to the mall, but didn't really get anything. Did get a few clothing items from Target, they were on sale and so cheap! Sunday we had our picnic, it was nice because MIL did all of the work :D BIL and his family overstayed their welcome as usual, they didn't leave for 4 hours after everyone else did!! Go home already! I think I was a bit more cranky than usual too :shrug: Yesterday met my mom and sister for breakfast. My sister is leaving for Ireland today, I hope she has a nice safe trip, I told her to be sure and buy me something. Eating was not too bad, but I didn't get much exercise in. I did some housework, but it's been so hot and humid out lately that everything makes me tired. I have a dr appointment on Monday and I am a little scared to find out how much weight I've gained. I have a feeling that I've put on quite a bit from last month. Of course my belly is pooching out more now too.

We had our pool party after work yesterday so I ate junk and wore my ugly bathing suit. It was fun though. I watched "Kill Bill" last night when I got home, it was pretty cool, now I NEED to see the second part. I don't think it's out on video until September though :( My back is starting to bother me sitting all day. I have to make a better effort to get up more and stretch. My sister's plane made it to Ireland, I hope they're having a good time. I'm trying really hard to be good today with making healthy food choices. I'm scared of packing on too much weight too quickly. Power pump and yoga tonight--I'm looking forward to yoga, I need a good stretch. Work is stressful right now which sucks, it really makes me not want to be here, but gotta pay the bills. Guess I'd better go get some work done.

Power pump and yoga felt so good last night. Especially yoga, I needed that stretch badly. I'll be going to the gym again tonight just for some cardio and stretching. I'v been trying to plan out what my workout schedule will be once the baby gets here, ideally I'd like to do cardio in the morning, then pilates 3-4 times per week after work. I'll be interested to see how it all works out. I'm not sure if I'll continue my gym membership, I would like to get a treadmill at home. So much to think about.

I made chile last night for dinner, it was pretty good and there are tons of leftovers. I'm going to try to protein up this weekend, and cut down on foods that make me retain water since I have to get weighed on Monday. I'll probably end-up holding on to some water weight though, since its' supposed to hit 90 degrees the next few days.

I ordered a prenatal yoga dvd from netflix, that should come either Friday or Saturday. I am curious to see what that will be like. Maybe it will help with my sore back. I really need to work on my posture, it is getting hideous.

Got to gym last night, I feel like I'm finally settling back into a schedule. Just did cardio, some stretching and ball exercises. Tonight it will be more cardio, some arm weights and more stretching. I'm so glad it's the weekend already, I've been living for the weekends lately, they can't come soon enough. I really want to go to the creek on saturday, Just to hang out outside and go swimming. It's supposed to continue to be boiling hot out. Will probably just grab pizza for dinner tonight, and try to get my housework done and some laundry, so I can do whatever I want on Saturday and Sunday.

Had dr appointment this morning, my weight was up to 157! A 6 lb gain in one month, also a six pound gain total so far. When my dr tried to find the baby's heartbeat she was like "whoa, this baby is really moving" and I could feel her kick at the doppler, pretty funny. I have to do the glucose tolerance test in 2 weeks, not looking forward to that. I hope that it goes smoothly.

Didn't do much over the weekend. Did go to the gym on Friday after work. Did nothing on Saturday but sit outside and read. On Sunday cleaned house a bit and went to a birthday party for one of our friends. I was slightly cranky at dh all weekend. I blame the heat :D

Planning to go to power pump tonight after work, then chicken breast for dinner, baked potato and some veggies. Must go grocery shopping tom after work for some healthy snacks and breakfast and lunch things.

Went to gym last night and had a well-rounded healthy dinner. Planning on the gym again tonight, just some cardio and stretching. Not planning on such a healthy dinner though, pulled pork bbq, oh well, could be worse. No ice cream tonight for me. Last night I woke up and couldn't get back to sleep forever, I was so tired this morning. I hope this not sleeping doesn't become a regular thing. I would like to get up early enough in the mornings to do my yoga dvd that I got, I'm hoping that it will help my back soreness. Reading the Bradley Method book right now. I really want to try and go natural, but I just feel so clueless as to what it is going to be like in the moment. At least the book explains what happens during labor and birth, so even if I do end up with some pain killers I won't be clueless.

Didn't go to gym last night, did my prenatal yoga dvd instead. It was pretty good, could have been a little more challenging, but it was a nice stretch. DH and I went out to eat last night. Had 1/2 of cheeseburger and some fries. Tonight dinner will be whole wheat spaghetti, salad, and leftover chicken breast from Monday. Tonight is power pump and yoga. I have to remember to take it easy, that's something I learned from the yoga video, it's important to stay active, but there is no point in pushing yourself. BIL may get the nursrey painted this weekend, I won't hold my breath waiting on that one, but I would love to have that done. It's the only thing that I can't do myself. Maybe on Thurday DH and I will go to Home Depot to pick out paint. That may get the ball rolling. I am so tired lately, I could just stay in bed all day. Must get to sleep early tonight.

so proud of myself, did get to sleep early, did go to gym, did make dinner. Got up early this morning and packed lunch for myself and dh, also made breakfast for the both of us. It was raining and hailing last night when I left work. I almost didn't go to the gym, but it is on my way home anyhow. I got there and the power was out in the cardio area, and the computers were down so I had to sign in. Luckily everything was working in the fitness studio. Yoga class was nice, I'm going to try to get more yoga in now that I have that DVD at home too. Today will be a short gym day, just some cardio and stretching. DH was feeling baby kick last night for awhile, I'm glad he's not squeemish about it, I was afraid that he would be.

Got to the gym last night. I am definately starting to tire more easily. Heck, I got a little winded shaving my legs in the shower this morning. Planning on hitting the gym again tonight, just some more cardio and some light weights. I think dh is going to his brother's house tonight, so I may hang out with my mom and sister. Want to go shopping tom morning. I need to get my friend something for her baby shower, and would also like to go to Old Navy for myself. Work is busy, so I better get going.

Hello Nikic! :)
Just checking on you. OMG, you are quite advanced already!
I am happy to see that you are taking very good care of yourself. :up:
Have a great day! :rose:

Time is really flying by now, and I'm starting to realize how much still needs to be done--Yikes! My mom is so sweet, and is starting to plan the baby shower. It's going to be at my house, so not a surprise, will probably be on September 12th.

My mom and sister did come over Friday night. We had a nice time. Got my shopping done on Saturday morning, then did nothing the rest of the weekend. Our friends are getting married on Oct 2 at the beach, dh is in the wedding, I am going to be so huge by then, but I said I'd be there.

Planning on the gym tonight, just power pump class. Have stuff to do at home since I didn't do anything over the weekend. DH is leaving on business trip for a couple of days, so should make sure he has some clean clothes to take with him.

Power pump was ok last night, it was a sub instructor, I'm glad that the regular instructor will be back next week. I think that I'm only going to continue with that class until the end of this month. Then I'll just have to start more cardio and do some weights myself. I will continue with the yoga class though. Tonight will just be some cardio and stretching. I got tons of stuff done around the house last night, laundry and cleaning. Our vacuum cleaner totally pooped out though, I guess it's time for a new one. Need to go grocery shopping tonight, having girlfriends over for dinner and a movie tom night, it should be fun.

Hi Nikic! Thanks for dropping by my journal. :)

Nothing like dinner and movie with the girls...any idea what you're going to see?

Thanks for stopping in Lurkaholic :wave:

Gym last night, just some cardio and stretching I was having some ligament pain on my right side, so took it easy. Went to the grocery store. I wasn't very hungry last night so I didn't eat very much for dinner. It's strange how much my appetite varies. I can be completely ravenous or feel full for hours. Started my crock pot lasagna this morning. I hope it turns out ok, I was a little nervous about putting the noodles in there dry, oh well, they have 10 hours to cook. If nothing else at least my house will smell good when I get home. I have 3 movies at home to pick from; Somethings Gotta Give, Under the Tuscan Sun, and Mystic River.......not sure which one we'll watch, we'll have to vote on it. Hope I stay awake thru the movie, had to get up early this morning to drop dh off at the train station. I think his flight leaves around 2:00.

Just looked at my ticker -- only 98 days to go!!! That doesn't seem very long at all!! It's exciting to think that my little bean will be here in just a few months, right in time for the holidays.

No exercise last night, but I wasn't planning on any either. Had a good time with the girls. Ate lasagna and garlic bread and salad. Now tonight it's back to the gym for me!

It's been a little while. Not much is new diet and exercise-wise. I've decided to stop going to power pump classes, my belly is starting to get in the way. I still plan on lifting some free-weights though. Especially for my arms. Yesterday just did some cardio. BIL primed and partially painted baby's room. I am going tot finish up the paint tonight. Last Friday had to pick up dh at airport and his flight was delayed 3 hours--sitting around the airport is boring :(

I have to go for my GTT on Friday for gestational diabetes, and I am so nervous about it for some reason. I hope that it goes ok. Tommorow I start my third trimester already. I can't believe how quickly the second flew by, well it is supposed to be the "easiest" of the three, so it figures. Work is so busy, better get back to that.

Finished painting the baby's room last night. I didn't go to the gym, but the painting was a workout in itself. It looks so much better in there now. I had my doubts while I was painting. The walls took 3 coats of paint on top of the primer that my BIL had already put down. I do need to touch up the trim, but I'm so excited, now I can start thinking about decorating. So much fun!

I have cardio at the gym planned for tonight, then yoga class. Tonight I'd like to wash the crib set that my aunt gave me. I want to tie the bumpers on the crib and see if I like it or not. I think I may just use it, because I really don't plan on spending $200 on crib bedding. There's so many other things to waste my money on.

My eating has been so-so. My appetite hasn't really picked up since being pg, if anything it's decreased which seems kind of odd to me. Maybe in the next few months I will start getting ravenous :)

Ugh! I was feeling very pg last night. I worked too long to do cardio, but I did make it to yoga. As soon as I got in my car to go to the gym it started to just dump buckets and buckets of rain. It was so gross, my mat and clothes were all wet. After I dried off a bit it was really a very nice and relaxing yoga class. After I got home all I wanted to do was sit down and do nothing, so I did. This weekend will be for putting the back room together and cleaning up my paint mess. I have a new soreness, right at my pubic bone (sorry tmi) it seems to be a little better today, I hope it goes away. DH is so sweet, he told me last night that I am really getting big!!!!!!!!! I shot him the death look, so he corrected himself to say my belly is getting really big. Just what I needed to hear, i already feel like a tank.

This morning I had to do my 1 hour glucose tolerance test to tell whether or not I have gestational diabetes. I really hope that this 1 hour test went ok, because if it doesn't I'll have to do a 3 hour test :tongue: I went to the hospital where I'll be delivering. I've never been in there before. It seems nice enough as far as hospitals go. All of the people were very friendly. The lady who took my blood told me that she had her second baby there, and it was a nice experience, said it felt like home--we'll see about that.

I want to get the back room together some more this weekend. I'll also be shopping again Saturday morning :D

Tonight will be some cardio at the gym and some light weights. I would like to do some research this weekend and get together my own free-weights routine to keep toned now that I've stopped going to power pump.

Weekend was good, we spent Friday and Saturday nights over at friends' houses. I got some more hand-me-down maternity clothes, so I'm set for awhile now. No more spending!! DH and I have been thinking about getting a 3D ultrasound done. I am just dying to see more photos of our little one, and would like to verify that she is really a she. Plus it would be neat to have pictures of her before she is born.

Monday I went to the gym for cardio, Tuesday no gym, but I finished up painting the trim in the back room. Now I can move all the furniture back in and get more organized. I'm 7 months today, things are going so quickly now-I have a feeling that October will be here before I know it!! My mom and aunts are planning a baby shower for September 19th, it's not a surprise, it's going to be at my house, it should be so much fun. It gives me a deadline to have my house looking good by that time too. There's some more painting that needs to be done.

Gym last night was good. 30 min of cardio, then yoga class. I love my yoga class, I never want to give it up. I hope I don't get so big that I can barely do any of it anymore. Eating was pretty ok yesterday too. I haven't heard anything from the lab yet about my blood test, so I'm praying that everything turned out ok :shrug: Work is so busy, I can't wait for the weekend to get here already. Weekend is looking busy already too--niece's birthday Saturday night and friend's baby shower on Sunday. I would like to get some of the painting done in the hallway too, especially the closet doors. It's not supposed to rain this weekend, so I'd like to paint those outside, take advantage of the warm weather while it lasts.

New activity has just been added to this weekend--family reunion Saturday afternoon. I had completely forgotten about it. I hope I still have time to do the things I want to do personally.

Friday afternoon and I don't feel much like working anymore. It has been so busy all week, I'm about ready to collapse. I think I will do some light cleaning tonight after the gym, then crawl into bed and go to sleep :) Eating has not been all that great today, maybe that is partly to blame for the tired feeling.

Have another dr appointment already on Monday morning. I'm interested to see how much I've gained this time around. I hope it's not 6 pounds like last month. I would be ok with 4, would be even happier with 3--that would put me at a nice even 160.

Dr was good. I did gain 3 pounds, so I'm up to 160 now. Total gain of 9 pounds. BP is still ok, and baby's heartbeat is strong. The dr showed me how she's positioned now, head down with her feet right in my ribs. She weighs a bit over 3 lbs now, so he said she'll probably be around 8 lbs when she's born!! I get another u/s on Friday afternoon, I'm so excited. I hope that they verify that there's a little girl in there! I still have awful bruising on my arm from where the nurse took blood over a week ago. It's starting to fade, but is kinda gross looking.

Planning cardio at the gym today. Probably won't get to yoga class this week--going to visit my friend at her new place after work on Wednesday. I'm going to try to do my yoga dvd instead. Hopefully I'll be able to get to the gym all week. I won't be going Friday though, I 'll be at the u/s instead.

House is coming along. I got all of my clothes organized. Friends were so generous with hand-me-down maternity wear. Thank goodness, I hate spending money on that stuff. I still need to get the hallway painting done. Maybe I will do the sanding tonight. Maybe I can finish up painting the trim and doors tom. Then all that will be left are the walls themselves. I could do that this weekend. Hopefully they will only need one coat, just to freshen things up--no drastic color changes or anything.

Yuck, I'm crampy and sore today and things are soooo busy at work. DH has a cold, I hope he's not contagious. I'm supposed to leave for the beach on Sunday and don't want to be sick the whole time I'm there. The baby is really moving around lots this morning. I guess that might explain some of the cramping--I'm getting beat up in there :)

Planning to go to the gym after work, if I ever leave work. Need to go grocery shopping and do a load of laundry tonight too.

It's been over a week since I've updated. I hope I don't forget anything. Diet and exercise have been ok. I just got back from the beach last night, so I know I'll have a hard time getting back into my work/gym routine. The beach was awesome. Weather was good. I got some sun. I wore my 2 piece at the beach, I was dying to get some sun on my belly and back, plus I figured "what the heck, nobody here knows me". I even dug a little hole in the sand to put my belly in so I could lay on my front.

Last Friday we had another u/s, the tech said the baby is still looking like a girl. She was moving her arms around a bit and opening and closing her mouth. We got 3 new pictures -- one is of her tiny little foot!!

It turns out dh cold was contagious. my throat hurt on Friday and Saturday, and I'm still stuffy, but it's more annoying than anything serious.

Did not go to gym last night - was "oh-so tired" I laid down for a bit after getting home from work (late). Then dh and I went out for dinner, I had a lovely grilled chicken taco salad. I'm back in more of a routine today. Took my vitamin with breakfast this morning....also plan on making it to the gym tonight for cardio.

Would like to get laundry done tonight so I can finish painting the doors (both closet and hallway tom night. Then all I will have left to do are the walls themselves. Would be great if I could finish them up this weekend.

Baby is rolling around and kicking like crazy, once in awhile she really knocks my bladder. I'm planning on cleaning up my diet a little more as of Sunday. Focusing more on getting better proteins and cutting back on junkfood. I don't want to pack on any excess poundage, only good, healthy weight gain.

Eating has been hideous, embarassingly so. My appetite is so strange. Saturday I was barely hungry at all, then on Sunday I just kept eating and eating. I know that I have to get things in check for both myself and my little girl to stay healthy. I'm just having a hard time getting it together. I need to plan ahead better. Tonight I am going to the grocery store to stock up yet again. No more sweets and chip-type things. No gym tonight, but I will get there 3 days this week.

On the upside, I did get the trim and all of the doors done, I even painted the attic door in the ceiling and cleaned out the hallway pantry. The hallways look so much brighter now. I can't wait to get the walls done, then I'll be through painting for a little while. Only the downstairs is left!!

I'm so excited because my best friend is scheduled for an induction on Tuesday -- she's going to have a baby so soon. I can't wait!! I hope everything goes smoothly for her, she had a pretty rough start to her pregnancy so she deserves some ease toward the end.

Eating is still not much better,and I haven't been going to the gym to balance it out. I'm feeling a little overwhelmed this week, and I'm not sure I'll make it to the gym at all. There are so many things that need to be done at home that are a priority right now. I need to get to the grocery store tonight, no excuses, and repair two of the painted closet doors, and get some laundry in as well. Tom night I'll most likely visit my friend at the hospital, I may be able to get to the gym before I go to see her. Then Thursday I have a picnic thing right after work. Friday I should be able to get some exercise in....maybe. I need to plan.

Hi Nikic,

How are you? Wow! You are almost there! It was about this time that my eating tripled. Nothing that I ate satisfied me. I was absolutely ravenous. Just keep choosing the healthy foods and you should be fine. Even if you gain more than you expected this month, remember that it is these last two months that baby gains the most.

I had a baby boy on August 9. Things are really hectic right now, but I am enjoying being mom completely. Just wait until your little girl arrives. It is a feeling that cannot be described.

After my first postpartum check up I plan to start a journal here as I have a bit of weight to lose. I haven't weighed myself..will let the doctor do that. Come September it is getting fit time.

Enjoy the last two months. They do go extremely fast though they can be quite difficult.

Whisper, congratulations on your new son! I bet it is so amazing to be able to hold him and look at him. I hope that you are both doing well.

DH and I went to the hospital last night to see my friend and her little baby - what a tiny peanut she is. They both seemed healthy and happy and eager to get home. DH loved looking at all the little babies, we're both getting anxious for ours to arrive.

I finally got to the grocery store after work yesterday, so diet should be a little more balanced. Still haven't been to the gym, but also haven't just been lazing around either so.... I should be able to get there tom though. It will feel good to get some cardio in once again.

No big plans for the weekend, just some more yard sales, and hopefully getting the hallway walls painted, and house tidied.

All parties are done for a little while now. Healthy eating should be a bit easier. Planning on the gym today after work. I am just so glad it's Friday. I hope that today doesn't drag by too slowly, I'm just itching to get out of here. My house is a catastrophe, it absolutely needs to be scrubbed and cleaned before I do anymore painting, painitng just adds to the mess. Looking forward to yard sales tom, seems like there will be a few good ones.

Finally got to give the house a good scrubbing. There are still some things that need to be finished, the wood floors and some laundry, but other than that, it's looking pretty good.

I'm feeling very big and preggo lately. It's amazing how many people comment and ask when you're due, etc, etc. So far people have only been saying nice things, no one has called me a whale yet :D Getting excited to have my shower, it's going to be on the 19th at my house, so not a surprise, but my mom and sister are taking care of planning the whole thing and aren't letting me in on any of the details.

DH and I are trying to take care of some home improvement stuff before the baby gets here. We want to get the driveway paved and the rec room recarpeted. It looks like the driveway will happen pretty soon, I have to call around for some carpet price quotes. I hope it's not too too much, but it will be so nice to have that done - it will be worth the $$.

8 Months Today!!!!!

Eating has been a bit better, and I've been back at the gym. I have a dr appointment next week, so will see then how much weight I've put on. My appetite is back to being a bit smaller again, I just can't fit as much food in there anymore. Work has been crazy busy and I'm begining to wonder how I'm going to be able to train the new gal in my department before I have this baby. Trying not to worry too much, but also trying to plan ahead. Have to talk to the company owner about working from home a bit after the baby is here, I hope he is willing to go along with it.

went to yoga class last night. it was wonderful, and so relaxing. The new instructor started and seems like she will be good. She's really nice, talked to her a bit after class.

Work is still super busy. Went to dr last week weight is now at 163.75 lbs !! Dr said weight gain is good. Last blood test came back normal. I think that's it for the blood test portion. I have another appt on the 22nd, this one I have to get tested for strep B and I meet yet another dr at the practice, I will have met them all then. Tonight is first childbirth prep class, I am just excited to see that portion of the hospital. I hope that we get the labor and delivery tour tonight. This little girl is moving around like crazy lately especially in my ribs. My back aches lots, I hope she decides to come sooner rather than later.

Exercising has been going ok, and diet is not too horrible. Didn't get to go to yoga last week because of office outing, but I'm planning on going this week.

Childbirth prep class was disapointing. I don't think we're going to go to any more of them. They are not even taught by someone who works the floor at the hospital. I am going to call the hospital and arrange for a L/D tour then just grill my drs about all the policies and such.

Planning yoga for tonight. I haven't been to the gym yet this week, but last night I vacuumed and cleaned the rec room in prep for visitors on Sunday, and man was that a workout :D

I am scared that I am going to have a giant baby. She just feels so strong lately when she's moving around. I hope that everything is ok and normal in there. DH and I were saying how nice it would be if this little one decides to arrive before her due date. I am ready for her to be on the outside.

Well, the crankiness has definately set in, and I think it's here to stay. I am cranky at dh for not helping me as much around the house as I would like him to. I'm just cranky in general, so frustrating.
Our baby shower is on Sunday, but it's at my house, and I'm not really looking forward to it, I'm hoping once everybody is over it will be fun and I'll be able to get more into the baby spirit.

Got to the gym Wednesday and Thursday, and am planning to go today too.

Went to the dr last Friday, said my weight was up to 167, but I'm not sure that is accurate, this time they used an "old-fashioned" type scale, and all other times they have used a digital. I go back again on Thursday, so I'm interested to see what it is then. My blood pressure was a little high, but I think that may have been because I was nervous about getting the strep B culture done. Hopefully it will be back to normal on Thursday. Dr did tell me to start taking it a little easier, and to rest as much as possible.

Last week I did really well with exercising. I didn't go to the gym yesterday though, and I don't plan on going today. I do want to go tom night for yoga class. I really need to practice my breathing and relaxation, it should come in handy during labor.

I've been taking my cod liver oil and also drinking rasberry leaf tea (it's supposed to "prime" your uterus for delivery). I am getting nervous about labor and being in the hospital. I still have to pack a bag for myself and the baby. That's something that I want to have done this weekend.

Ugh! Was at dr again today and had to get on the big old scale again. It said 168 this time. I had really hoped to keep it below 170, but with 4 weeks to go, I just don't know if that's going to happen. What I don't understand is that my scale at home says 161-162, how can there be such a big difference?? Well, dr doesn't seem concerned, so I guess I won't be either. Got "checked" today too, and still not dilated. I'm not sure how I feel about this, supposedly starting to dilate early doesn't really mean anything about how close labor and delivery is anyway, and there isn't much I can do about it. I just keep drinking my rasberry tea. Dr also said my ankles were a little swollen, so be sure to keep drinking plenty of water. I do have to up my water intake for sure. Good news is that baby's heartbeat is strong, so at least she's doing good.

Yesterday I went to the hospital to tour the labor and delivery section. It made me feel a little more at ease, know I know exactly where to go and what the rooms look like. It did make me nervous to imagine myself there though. It was scary to see the operating room where they do c-sections. I really hope that I don't need to have one, but I'm sure once the baby is here I won't care how she got here.

Went to yoga last night. The breathing is helpful, but I have a feeling that's going to be the last time I go to class. I just can't move the way I used to. I do have a yoga dvd to do at home, so I may dust that one off soon.

Work is begining to stress me out, I'm hoping that all gets resolved in the next week or so. My boss seems to be in denial that I am going to be out for a bit, but I think he is finally starting to come around. The girls in the office are having a shower for me tonight, they're so sweet, it should be fun.

Pregnancy is starting to become a bit of a drag, I guess that's a sign that the end is near. Her kicks and punches are so strong anymore that it is getting a little uncomfortable. I can't wait until she's here so that I can look at her and hold her rather than just feeling her roll around inside on top of my bladder. I think my ribs are getting bruised today.

Have to go to the dr again on Friday morning. It will make me feel a little better if I've made some kind of progress by then. I have been getting a little crampy off and on the past couple of days, so maybe that is a good sign.

I haven't been exercising as much lately, heck, getting up from a chair is exercise for me anymore :) I do plan to continue practicing yoga at home, and still getting to the gym once in awhile to hop on that treadmill, although I am a little scared that my water may break at the gym, how embarassing that would be. I've been thinking about my exercise after baby. My gym membership is up in December sometime. I've been seriously considering buying a treadmill and just using that at home as well as continuing with yoga and pilates on my own. I just can't imagine I'll have time to get to the gym anymore with work and a new baby.

I loved having a treadmill at home when I was first starting to work out after baby, it was a really nice thing to be able to hop on as she napped...though the treadmill is loud enough that it would wake her up if I really got cooking....

(and :wave: by the way!!)

Thanks for the treadmill advice, I think I may end up getting one. It would be much more convenient.

Work shower was nice last night. Had soup, salad, and cheesecake. One of the ladies I work with made the baby a rag quilt, it is so stinkin cute. Working itself is getting pretty uncomfy. When I sit to work at the computer she gets all squished up in there. Going out for dinner again tonight with a couple of friends. I'm already thinking about what to order :D

Those last few weeks were torture for me. DS was born a week late and that last weekend was terrible. All I did was cry...I couldn't wait to meet my baby and I was tired of being so huge...LOL. Take it easy as best you can. Your baby will be here before you know it!

I would love to buy a treadmill, but living in an apartment there is just no room for it. I have been walking outside, but the weather is changing and I don't know how much longer I can get away with it. I've tried going to my parents to use their treadmill, too. Right now I am trying to use some exercise tapes that are quite dusty! If you can purchase a treadmill, I highly recommend it. I could use the gym at my apartment complex, but I never am able to go because of baby. You may be surprised though at just how much weight you lose after baby. From what I've seen you've made a wonderful effort to eat healthy and exercise throughout your pregnancy.

Good Luck!

I'm trying to gear myself up for these last few torturous weeks :D Had a dr appt this morning, and everything is still closed up firmly, so no signs of her coming anytime soon. Weight is at 169. I wonder when I'll hit the dreaded 170. Everything else is fine, blood pressure, strep test came back negative, which I'm very glad about. I'll actually be a little happy to still be around on the 22 or 23. There is a health and wellness fair that I like going to at the convention center that weekend.

Dinner with friends last night was fun. Had 1/2 of a chicken sandwhich and some yummy steak fries. Both of my girlfriends assured me that I would be able to have the natural delivery that I want (they both did it). They made me feel a bit more at ease about things.

DH is getting anxious for baby to get here, and I can't blame him. I just hope he doesn't whine about it too much. Speaking of wine......I am really craving a glass. I should have asked my dr today if it would be ok to have a little bit. I may anyway.....I just have to talk dh into buying me some because I don't want to be gawked at in the store.

I was getting so frustrated this weekend. I was so bored, there is nothing left for me to do!! The house is clean, the laundry is done. I was so bored that I baked cookies yesterday!!! Now we have a bunch of chocolate chip cookies sitting around, like I need that. Part of me really wants the baby to be here now, but another part of me thinks it would be better if she doesn't come until the end of the month (just work and time-off-wise). I guess she will just get here when she gets here, I'm such a control freak sometimes though, that the the not-knowing is driving me crazy!!

I didn't go to the gym at all last week, so my goal for this week is to get to the gym every weekday and walk on the treadmill for at least 1/2 hour. Gotta stay in shape for the big day.

Well last night I woke up with stomache cramps and got all excited that I might be in labor, but they did go away eventually, and here I am at work **sigh**

I did get to the gym last night and walked on the treadmill for 1/2 hour. I plan on going again today, I hope the exercise will keep things moving along.

Supposed to leave work today to meet the carpet delivery people. I'm excited, we're getting the rec-room downstairs redone. It's already been repainted, and all that needs to be done now is tiling for the entranceway area and the new carpet. I do hope that that can all be completed before baby gets here.

Got to the gym yesterday. I am planning on going to the gym tonight, but am debating about whether or not to go to yoga class. I want to go just for the relaxation, breathing time, even though my movements are going to be very limited. I guess I will just play it by ear when I get to the gym.

Eating has been very so-so. My goal for the rest of this week is to get in lots and lots of water. I know I haven't been drinking enough. I am so anxious for this baby to get here I don't know what to do with myself some of the time. I hope that when she does come, everything goes pretty smoothly.

I did go to yoga last night. It was nice. I wonder if I'll be going next week...

DH and I and a friend went out to dinner last night, had chicken and rice and lots of water, that was much more healthy that what I would have ended up eating for dinner anyhow. I'm so excited because our downstairs should be finished by Monday/Tuesday!! The tile is halfway done now and looks great. DH and I just need to clean out the one closet so the carpet can be replaced there. I guess we'll do it over the weekend.

It's rainy and gross here today, planning on going to the gym again after work for some more treadmill action.

TGIF!! I hope that today goes quickly. I'm leaving work a little early for my dr appointment, so that should help. After dr I need to go to BabiesRUs and make some exchanges, then hopefully just have a relaxing night at home. I did go to the gym last night, but won't be able to go tonight. 4x/week isn't bad. I had an uncomfortable night last night, but I did get some sleep. DH has been pretty sweet to me lately, which I'm very thankful for.

Last night we watched the movie "Super Size Me" I thought it was so, so interesting. It was an eye-opener, not only to the fast food business, but also about school lunches, vending machines, etc.

I've been worried lately about getting all of my work stuff in order before I'm out on leave. There is so much to do.

Ughh...do I remember those last weeks of pregnancy. I don't think I slept for more than 2 straight hours. I hope there is some progress at the dr!

I heard about that movie...am interested in watching it. Is it true the guy gained like 30 pounds in one month? Hey, why couldn't I lose 30 pounds in a month. Why is it so much easier to gain the weight than lose it? LOL

You seem very organized. I'm sure you will get everything finished at work before the baby comes. BTW, do you have baby names chosen?

Dr appointment didn't go great :( My weight is 172, and my blood pressure was high. The dr checked my blood pressure again, and it did go back to normal, but I have to go in again today for another bp check. The dr suggest I stop working, but I think that would just stress me out more, he did say to do nothing else aside from going to work, so I guess my gym days are done for a bit. I was dilated about a cm though, and the dr stripped my membranes hoping to move things along. I hope that she gets here soon, on her own, I do not want to be induced, I really want to have a natural labor.

Whisper - the movie was so good, dh was a little bored by it, but I am so interested in that kind of thing. He did gain about 30 lbs in a month, but what was even scarier was what happened to his liver in that short amount of time, it almost stopped functioning it was unable to filter out all of the stuff in the food he was eating. He was feeling sick emotionally and physically, and was basically addicted to the fast food, he would feel bad until he was eating it -- very eye opening.
I think we're going to name the baby Brynn Elise, as long as she is, indeed a girl. I don't even have any boy name back-ups in case they were wrong, We should probably be prepared, just in case.

I was scared by my blood pressure reading on Friday, so I tried to eat a little healthier than usual over the weekend. I did make oatmeal cookies last night though, they're not the healthiest thing ever. I just got so bored sitting around the house all weekend I ended up baking.

Just stopping by to wish you a healthy happy delivery! I am the Mom of four , all adults now, but each delivery is different, so go into this with an open mind. I had one natural, it went beautifully but he was only 7 pds even, my others were much bigger babies and i had epidurals with them. Good luck and enjoy that baby.....

Strange, thought I posted yesterday, but it seems to be lost. Oh well, not much change here. I was really uncomfortable yesterday, I think the fact that my clothes are getting tighter and tighter is partly to blame.

Judith - thank you for stopping by and for the advice :)

I really prefer not to give advice LOL touchy thing to do. If i could do it all over again my main advice is not to sweat the small stuff, easy to say, hard to do. I have the personality that likes order and everything in its place, with babies that is hard to do. You never get enough sleep after they arrive. Good luck, heres hoping for a speedy healthy delivery.... again all deliveries are diff, i always went 10-16 days overdue, shortest delivery from first pain to delivery room was 1 1/2 hrs, longest was 24 hrs, you never know unless you are having a c-section. my natural delivery took a few hrs, but that was a wonderful time, he was a beautiful peaches and cream baby, he is now 24 and serving our country overseas...........

Hi nikic,

Here's hoping that all goes well with the labor and delivery.

I was surprised to read how active you still are at this point. That is wonderful. I wish I had been able to move during my pregnancy, no such luck. With going to the gym, and the yoga I am curious to know how the birth goes. I would think that you should have an uneventful one.

Too close to the big day for stressing out. Relax as much as you can. There won't be much of that after the baby arrives.

Nandi :rose:

Judith - I am just soaking up all the advice I can get at this point.

Nandi - I can't imagine being pg with 2 babies at once, just one is pretty uncomfortable at times. I am relaxing now, my dr told me no more gym!! I have been sitting on an exercise ball at home though, hoping that it will help things along.

I gave my work notice that my official last day will be October 29th (unless it ends up being before then). I have a feeling I'm going to be late, even though I keep hoping to go a bit early.

TGIF!!! After today, only 1 week of work for me, unless baby comes before then of course. Appetite has been decreasing lately, I guess there just isn't much room in there. Dr appointment this afternoon, I hope that it's my last one. I'm planning on going to the mind/body/spirit expo tom morning, maybe walking around will get things moving along. My sister-in-law is going with me, it should be fun.

nikic,

There was this girl at the job that did like you, worked right up to the last moment. On her way home from work on that last day she went into labor. So much for having a couple of days off before the baby :D

Yes, pg with 2 was quite an ordeal. They are identical (2 babies, 1 sac) so I had other issues also. I had to eat constantly and that created another problem because I was on meds to keep me from going into labor. The meds gave me continuous heartburn, even when I hadn't eaten anything for a while. At the end they were so big that I could barely breath, no room for lung expansion. The last 5 weeks I could no longer walk, had to rent a wheelchair. Was going to the Dr for NST 2, sometimes 3 times a week.

I would love to get pregnant again with 1 baby just so I could have a pleasant pregnancy and enjoy it. There was too much stress and worry involved in mine. Every day praying that they stay in there another day. If I have an accident, I'll have another baby, but not on purpose. This could happen again. :c( I'm an older Momma, the older you get the better your chance of having identical twins. I'm told my chances of another set are somewhere around 70%.

What is the mind/body/spirit expo?

Have fun this weekend.

Nandi :rose:

Nandi - your pregnancy sounds like it was alot of work, but I'm sure well worth it. The expo was all about alternative medicine type stuff. I went to an essential oils seminar -- there was plenty of interesting stuff to see. Some of it was a little out there for my taste - pet psychics and such.

Not much change with me, just sitting around waiting to have a baby.

Nicci
I thought I would stop by and see if the baby is here. Since you said that you were soaking up advice I thought I might throw in a few.

I remember when I hit my due date they all freaked out and started talking induction like the next day. Just try to relax and get as much sleep as you can. Have faith in yourself and be as loving and kind to yourself as you can be. Most first time moms go over by 8 days but if they are concerned about letting you go that long .. if you do decide to induce.. I would maybe talk to your doctor about trying the gel method that allows you to go to the hospital and get the gel and then go home and go into labor naturally. I almost had to do that.

I do hope you will get a chance to read the baby on the block book.

I thought I might make a list of what I loved the most and used with my baby

Baby stuff
7 gowns with hand things for sleeping
7 sleep and plays
two packs of cloth diapers to use as burp cloths and with nursing
a Miracle blanket ( I could not have lived without this)http://www.miracleblanket.com/index.htm
A white noise CD ( the first months this was wonderful)

For me
A good sleeping nursing bra from motherhood if you plan to breastfeed. Absolutely take this to the hospital with you if you can. THey are soft and wonderful

I loved having a good sports bottle to drink out of at our hospital because they gave you dumb ones. I used the ones the football players use with the weird curved straw

My own nightgown and one that I could nurse in.

My breast friend nuring pillow that I loved it got me throug a lot of good times as did our little rocker that I sat in. http://www.babybungalow.com/thebabybungalow/mybresfrienn.html
It looks ridiculous but I loved it

Those are the things no one suggested to me that I found helpful. I am sending happy peaceful birthing thoughts your way.

CJ, thanks for stopping by and for all of the advice, I'll be checking into those things--especially the miracle blanket. There are times I catch myself wondering if my body will know what to do when the time comes, but, like you said, I must just relax and trust that everything will go the way it's supposed to.

Well, I'm almost to my due date and really don't anticipate going anytime soon, I'm guessing it will be at least another week. I would be absolutely thrilled if she decides to make her appearance before then, but I have things to keep me occupied for now.

The only thing I'm finding almost unbearable are the people at work asking everyday if I'm still here. I finally posted a sign on my office door yesterday letting everybody know, that yes, indeed, I am still here.

I am starting to get concerned about visitors after baby is here. It seems like everybody and their mother wants to come see us in the hospital, and I just don't understand this at all. We're only going to be at the hospital for 48 hours, and I'm figuring that much of that time will be spent recovering, bonding with baby and trying to begin to learn to breastfeed--I really am not comfortable wipping my boobies out in front of family and friends (not yet anyway) I would love if people would wait to vist until we are home for a few days, but I just don't know how I can control that without hurting lots of feelings -- on the other hand, I do think that people should try and be understanding. Hopefully things will work out.

we all went through the, havent you had that baby yet! Here i was the size of a house and they would still ask LOL As i stated before i went 2 wks past mine with all four. Best to you.......

Hi nikic,

Don't sweat the small stuff. All those visitors that want to stop by and see you in the hospital, half of them won't show up. All you need to do is not put out the word that you are having the baby until after the birth. By the time they all figure out when they can fit that visit into their schedules you'll be home. Then if they have any manners they will call you before just dropping by. If you are still not ready just have DH tell them how very tired you are and that you need your rest. They will understand especially if you give them a date when it's OK to come by.

When all those well meaning people show up at your house, eventually they will be there, my best advice to you is to keep the baby close to you at all times. You would be amazed how many people will touch your baby without your permission. By that I mean they will touch her cheeks, her finger tips and toes (if exposed). The problem with this is that they will come in and do it without washing their hands. Complete strangers will attempt to touch your baby in stores and restaurants. You have to be vigilant or baby will catch a cold, or worse, the flu. Even people with kids will do it. I've had to stop so many people from touching the boys. It's paid off though, they are 10 months and have never been sick.

I know what you mean about not being comfortable breast feeding in front of people. I didn't even want to do it in front of my husband. It took me a while, but I finally was able to. I never did have to feed in public though, I don't think I was ever going to get to that point. We are so conditioned to keep our private parts private.

Now you keep in mind that the little angel will make her appearance when she's darn good and ready and not a moment sooner. Just be patient and continue to relax. Not asking for the info, just wondering, have you chosen a name yet?

Nandi :rose:

After my first baby( he was my largest and i had stitches inside and out to my rear) i was hurting, my sis was there to take care of me( and i needed it) she flew in from Calif to midwest for a week, i really needed her another week, but she had family to get back home to. My MIL came over around nine at night and i was floored, she walks in and walks into the babies room(he was asleep) turns on the light and starts talking loud etc. Well you know how we are with first babies, LOL i didnt say a word because i knew it would upset hubby, our families are very different, mine would never show up at night for one thing unless it was something planned. With my other three i didnt need help at all afterwards, very easy deliveries. My only word of advice with guests, go with how you feel, it is your life and husband and baby, if you need time, then say so, if you are ready for company enjoy, just set the ground rules you and hubby want, just enjoy being the proud parent.....

Hello nikic!
Just to let you know I am thinking of you and wishing you the best for the big day! :rose:

Niki
If you read part 1 of my journal ( I wouldn't recomend it) then you know that guests can really get in the way of bonding with a baby. I do think your concerns are important I found having people visiting in the hospital was a good thing because they came and that was it. When I got home I stayed in pajamas for a weeks ate simple dinners that DH made and stared at the baby with no interuptions. My mom came to help when Tayia was two weeks old and that was when I really needed her. My MIL came when Tayia was 4 weeks old and was beyond useless. She is still in the crapper with me because that is right when my emotions and hormones were settling and it made me quite manical and depressed dealing with her.

Just be kind to yourself. Have DH stick up for you guys. Encourage him to bond as much as he can with the baby. The three of you can climb on the bed and hold eachother. Build that circle of love around the three of you. You will have to ask DH for help.. men just don't get what you need unless you ask for it. Chet was very helpful because I told him what I needed.

I also wanted to suggest checking out this site
http://www.mothering.com/discussions/
I love it
THis is a nice thread called what do you wish you would have done the last week before the baby
http://www.mothering.com/discussions/showthread.php?t=209967
I also liked this one
http://www.mothering.com/discussions/showthread.php?t=208780
http://www.mothering.com/discussions/showthread.php?t=132100&highlight=omron
and other stuff where they discuss what a baby needs.

KEep in mind this is a very Attachment oriented parenting board and is bias but I like a lot of their suggestions. For example I love my sling and use it all the time. Unfotunately my house lookes like babies R us but most of what I use I have had to get with baby money people gave me and ordered it online.

I am only a few months ahead of you so if you need some help feel free to pm me. I have found my friends with young babies to be super helpful.

CJ - thank you so much for all of your support/advice/tips, I really appreciate it. Maybe the hospital would be the best place to get visitors after all - at least visiting time would be limited there. DH and I are both looking forward very much to having some bonding time, just the three of us.

Aria - thanks for thinking of me.

Judith - just how big was that big baby? The dr's keep telling me that this baby is a "good size" which I think means a little on the large side, but they haven't been willing to commit to a number.

Nandi - thanks for the visiting tips, I guess we'll just have to lay down some rules, better to sound a little harsh than to end up with a sick baby all winter.

Happy Due Date to Me :balloons: I'm still at work, which I really don't mind, I just wish I could wear sweatpants here though, my clothes are just ridiculous anymore. I'm sure if I did wear sweats no one would dare say anything, but I just can't bring myself to do it. I'm running out of stuff to do here, come Friday I'll probably just be reading and surfing the web all day.

Good Mornin' Nikic,

Yes ... Happy Due Date to You! You made it! Now comes the hurry up and wait part. Actually, I wouldn't know much about that. Mine was more like hurry up and get them out :D

Did I tell you about the C-section decision? I don't think I did. Anyway, the Dr told me that I could try to have the boys natural, but he thought that the 2nd baby would go breach after the 1st was out. So I asked what happens then? He says, "We will just grab him by the legs and pull him out. If that doesn't work we will have to do a C-section." At which point I told him I wasn't comfortable with them pulling my baby out by the legs. He thought it would be best if we scheduled the c-section rather than me going through labor to have the operation in the end.

So my husband was there by my side the whole time. My nephew (the 21 yo that I helped raise) was there holding the camcorder, and turning green. He was very relieved when he found out that he could not tape the actual surgery. I was fully awake during. I cried like a blubbering fool as I watched them bring out the boys. First one then the other. I was just in awe that I had managed to produce these little angels ... still am.

You are in for such joy!!! Keep us posted. Enjoy the rest of your last week at work.

Nandi :rose:

At work again today. I'm starting to get a little sore, "down there", I think the baby may be moving down. Tonight is the full moon, so maybe that will help things along. I'm so tired lately I could just sleep, sleep, sleep, I should try and get some extra naps in now while I still can.

Nandi, I just can't wait to meet my little one, I know I'll be crying like crazy when she's born.

At work again today. I'm starting to get a little sore, "down there", I think the baby may be moving down. Tonight is the full moon, so maybe that will help things along. I'm so tired lately I could just sleep, sleep, sleep, I should try and get some extra naps in now while I still can.

Nandi, I just can't wait to meet my little one, I know I'll be crying like crazy when she's born.

Today is my last day at work for awhile. The ladies here are so sweet, they decorated my office in pink and white and got a cake. Have a dr appointment this afternoon, I can't imagine they will have anything new to tell me. I will just continue to wait patiently.

Happy Friday Niki!

I hope the appointment goes well, and that you hear some good news. They might tell you that you are starting to become effaced and starting to dialate now. You've come this far you can make it the rest of the way.

Stay positive and be ready, some babies don't give you much notice :D

Nandi :rose:

Hi nikic!
Good luck with your doctor's appointment today! :*

I just bet you're holding that little girl in your arms! Hope everything is (did) go smoothly. Enjoy this time as a new mother!

Thinking of you too! :x

Hi Niki (Mommy),

I'm thinking that little bundle of joy has made her debut! Can't wait to read all the details.

Nandi :rose:

I finally made it back to diet talk.

Brynn Elise was born on 11/8/04 at 10:06 pm. I ended up being induced, labor went smoothly although it was long. Pitocin wasn't started until about 4:00 in the afternoon, but they had been giving me some kind of "down-there" gel tabs to move things along since the night before. I got an epidural soon after they started the pitocin, then things went pretty quickly. They practically shut the epidural off though, during the pushing phase so thank goodness that went fairly quickly. My little baby girl only weighed 6 lbs 12 oz, I guess she was just working on getting bigger those last couple of weeks.

I'm back to work now part-time. I finally feel like I'm getting the hang of b