Where were you at the start of this passing decade?
This question was posted on TheBump and OMG... WOW... it just hit me how HUGELY different my life is now! This time 10 years ago, as the 90's were drawing to a close, I was in the hospital recovering from multiple surgeries after a severe spinal chord injury counting my blessings I was alive but depressed seeing the world-wide festivities on TV from my hospital bed... wondering if I could ever find happiness again with disabilities, facing a possible life in a wheel chair and plenty of physical an emotional scars.
The start on 2000 was spent sadly wondering "what now?" My life had been carefully planned out and those plans, my Air Force career as a pilot was no longer possible and the very idea of dating was now something of a sick joke. Who the hell would want this shell of a woman? What will I do if I never get out of this wheel chair?
I sit here crying with joy at how amazing my life is. Now, the start of 2010 draws near and I am healthy, running again and happily married to my best friend who gave me a beautiful daughter... WHAT a difference a few years make [:D]
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
First Laughs!!!
Last Friday while doing Christmas shopping, we were going through the Starbucks drive-thru and she was fussing so Damen hopped into the back seat and was beat-box'n to her to make her smile and she let out the cutest baby giggle! I had thought I got a small laugh out of her a few days prior but this was a loud sweet baby giggle for sure! We were so excited and laughed our heads off. The few grunts before the laugh were hysterical like she was feeling the urge to laugh but didn't know what this urge was our how to let it out to express it.
Damen was the only one to get a laugh out of her since... but yesterday I finally succeeded in producing that sweet infectious sound. The key is to make funny sounds to music with our mouth and bop her hand to the beat as well.
Now to get it on camera!
Damen was the only one to get a laugh out of her since... but yesterday I finally succeeded in producing that sweet infectious sound. The key is to make funny sounds to music with our mouth and bop her hand to the beat as well.
Now to get it on camera!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
2 Month Checkup and Shots ...oh my!
She is actually 2 month and one week old today. Her checkup went well and the doctor said I am doing a great job... LOVE hearing that! Ariana weighed 9 lbs. 8 oz. and was in the 50th percentile for weight and length. She showed off when he put her on her tummy and she held her head and chest up and was semi scooting and then almost turned over onto her back. That was more than she does at home cause I think her play mat is kinda slippery and the doctors table is more firm and has more traction... or she pushed it more to show off! ;o)
As of last weekend, she has been grabbing at toys and not just batting at them. She grabbed her rattle from Papa for the first time last Sunday and we got it on camera the 2nd time she did it. She is also grabbing the feet of the giraffe hanging on her play mat and some bright objects I put in front of her. Its so exciting to see her "firsts" and relieving to see she's meeting her milestones.
She also got 2 of her shots today which was harder for me to watch than it was for her to get. She cried during the shot but stopped as soon as I picked her up. We are doing a more conservative shot schedule to not overwhelm her still developing immune system. Its a reasonable compromise between not vaccinating and following the aggressive shot schedule outlined by the CDC. Instead of getting 5-6 shots today, she got 2 and will only get 2 per visit from here on out. We also did not allow for the HepB shot the day she was born. Its a shot for an STD which we don't have so it can wait. After all of my research, we feel comfortable with our decision. She will not be in daycare so we can be more conservative. She will have all the required vaccines before the start of school but at a reasonable pace to guard against the chance for side effects and the risk of developing ADD or Autism. A good book to read to start informing yourself on this issue is The Vaccine Book by Dr Sears.
As of last weekend, she has been grabbing at toys and not just batting at them. She grabbed her rattle from Papa for the first time last Sunday and we got it on camera the 2nd time she did it. She is also grabbing the feet of the giraffe hanging on her play mat and some bright objects I put in front of her. Its so exciting to see her "firsts" and relieving to see she's meeting her milestones.
She also got 2 of her shots today which was harder for me to watch than it was for her to get. She cried during the shot but stopped as soon as I picked her up. We are doing a more conservative shot schedule to not overwhelm her still developing immune system. Its a reasonable compromise between not vaccinating and following the aggressive shot schedule outlined by the CDC. Instead of getting 5-6 shots today, she got 2 and will only get 2 per visit from here on out. We also did not allow for the HepB shot the day she was born. Its a shot for an STD which we don't have so it can wait. After all of my research, we feel comfortable with our decision. She will not be in daycare so we can be more conservative. She will have all the required vaccines before the start of school but at a reasonable pace to guard against the chance for side effects and the risk of developing ADD or Autism. A good book to read to start informing yourself on this issue is The Vaccine Book by Dr Sears.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Ariana is 4 Weeks Old!!!
Wow where did the time go! Just yesterday I was complaining about the discomfort of being over due! It has been a crazy, fun, blessed yet exhausting first month of parenthood and as you can see, finding the time to post on my blog let a lone shower or eat is very hard!
On Monday, the day before she turned 4 weeks old, I caught the first smile from her sweet face! It was the first smile that wasn't involuntary like when she is falling asleep. We play "where is Momma gonna kiss me" in the morning as I go from cheek to cheek, nose, chin, hands and feet... she smiles each morning since Monday. It makes my heart sing each morning!
As of 3 weeks she has been able to track me from side to side and now she can up and down too. She also can look in my direction when I am calling out to her from a little ways away like when I am in the kitchen and she's in her bouncer in the family room. I feel her staring at me constantly when awake with is funny looking over and seeing her little eyes piercing the back of my head says "Momma, why are you over here loving on me!?!"
Her Pediatric visit last Friday went very well and I was even on time!!! Prep time started about 4 hours before leaving the house and she had a couple of huge poop bombs the 30 minutes before which I thought was gonna make us late... but we got there with 1 minute to spare! She weighed 7 lbs 8 oz and is on track with her weight gain and development, no diaper rash and motor responses are well, heart and lungs sound strong... such a relief to here we are doing good by her!
Ok... she is waking form her nap... diaper change time LOL!
On Monday, the day before she turned 4 weeks old, I caught the first smile from her sweet face! It was the first smile that wasn't involuntary like when she is falling asleep. We play "where is Momma gonna kiss me" in the morning as I go from cheek to cheek, nose, chin, hands and feet... she smiles each morning since Monday. It makes my heart sing each morning!
As of 3 weeks she has been able to track me from side to side and now she can up and down too. She also can look in my direction when I am calling out to her from a little ways away like when I am in the kitchen and she's in her bouncer in the family room. I feel her staring at me constantly when awake with is funny looking over and seeing her little eyes piercing the back of my head says "Momma, why are you over here loving on me!?!"
Her Pediatric visit last Friday went very well and I was even on time!!! Prep time started about 4 hours before leaving the house and she had a couple of huge poop bombs the 30 minutes before which I thought was gonna make us late... but we got there with 1 minute to spare! She weighed 7 lbs 8 oz and is on track with her weight gain and development, no diaper rash and motor responses are well, heart and lungs sound strong... such a relief to here we are doing good by her!
Ok... she is waking form her nap... diaper change time LOL!
Friday, October 9, 2009
Ariana's Birth Story
After my OB checkup Monday afternoon, I continues to have cramps and then realized they were contractions. They didn't let up even as I walked around Target and went to Kohl's for some last minute Fall decor shopping. They also kept coming every 15-20 minutes which made me realize they were actual contractions! Got some stuff for dinner and by the time hubby got home from work around 7pm, the contractions were almost 10 minutes apart. Used the contraction master to time them which was cool.
Knowing we had to go to the hospital around 6am to be induced, we double checked to make sure all the bags were packed and went to bed around 10pm. The contractions were getting stronger and felt like someone was pushing my lower tummy up against the edge of the counter and pulling my abs down towards my feet... it was different then I thought contractions would feel like. Didn't have back pain... just a little achie which made laying in bed very uncomfortable! There was NO sleeping to be had for me! Hubby got a few hours of sleep in (guys always get over! LOL!). I kept watching the clock timing the contractions... at about 2 AM, they were now just about 5 minutes apart and getting very uncomfortable/painful. I got up to pee and a huge blood clot plopped in the toilet and my pad was soaked like I was having a heavy period. I freaked at the amount of blood so I called Labor & Delivery to see if I should come in earlier then expected. Got the green light! My hair was still wet from showering before bed so I just grabbed a big bowl of cereal & fruit and put out a huge bowl of food & water for the dog and off to the hospital we went!
After being checked at the hospital, I was now 3 cm dilated! They admitted me since I was well enough along and I was already scheduled to be induced a couple hours later. The contractions got stronger from feeling like my lower tummy was being jammed hard against a counter top to feeling like I was being stabbed where my lower tummy meets my pubic bone in combo with my abs being pulled down towards my feet. I was achie in my lower back but it wasn't sharp back pain labor. I could not get comfortable laying down on either side or back. Standing was not much better but because they would let me wear underwear, I didn't want to walk around and be dripping clops of bloody discharge (TMI!). Damen was getting frustrated with me because HE wanted to walk around and do the laboring positions & messages and stuff we learned during our child birth class. I love him for being excited to use all that he's learned BUT it not about what he wanted to do but what felt best for me at the time... he wasn't liking that I didn't want to do them and opted to sit or lay in bed. I was also getting a little annoyed when he would get distracted trying to play music on the laptop with a slide show of our pics... it wasn't playing right and after a few minutes I just wanted him to forget it and concentrate on helping me with my pain. I was getting VERY testie and he was getting irritated with my snappy attitude but DUDE, I AM BIRTHING A BABY DAMN IT! if any time I had a free pass to be bitchy, that was it LOL!
Hours passed and at about 9am I was almost 5 cm dilated and the contractions were between 3-2 minutes apart and so intense. They were offering IV drugs (narcotics) to take the edge of the pain but I didn't want to be sleep and loopy during the birth and IV drugs are shared with the baby which was not something we wanted. I have been told by many that narcotics make you groggy but you still feel all the pain... so why do it? The breathing helped get through contractions but it was so intense! If I had to, I felt I could continue without and pain medication but I was tired and was scared that they may come a point of no return for an epidural, so I gave in and requested one. About 9:45 am I got my Epi and OHHHH the sweet relief! I cried when they were putting in the needle not because of the pain... it didn't hurt at all to put in the epi... I was emotional over the pressure of going all natural and the possible risks (all be it they are low) of getting an epi. Ever since my accident 10 years ago, medical risks are HUGE worries for me and weigh on me heavily. But I said to myself, why torture yourself for hours when I could rest up for the hard part of pushing?!? I respect other women who chose to go all natural but there is no other way I would rather labor! After the epi, I was able to laugh and enjoy the build up to getting to finally hold my baby. We watched episode after episode of Friends on my laptop, listed to the CD we made of songs dedicated to Cornbread, I was able to shut my eyes bits here and there and rest up, snacked on some fruit cups and get ready for the hard part of pushing.
We got in trouble when we got caught eating snacks. The nurse said after getting the epi I was only allowed ice chips but we snuck some nibbles here and there when she was out of the room. I am about to push like I have never labored before and hadn't had anything to eat since the day before and no sleep wither... I will have my crackers and fruit cups damn it! We were taught in our labor class to sneak them in to keep out energy up and thank goodness for that cause I SOOOOO needed that energy when it was time to push!!!
I was shaking so much from the hormones of labor and the epi. I wasn't really cold but I was shaking like I was naked in a blizzard. The last couple of hours, I noticed my jaw hurt from my teeth chattering for hours. Damen kept playing with the thermostat to help me warm up then cool down when I got the sweats. He was worried but I told him it looks worse than it really felt.
I started to feel some pressure when she started to descend down the birth canal. It felt like a cantaloupe between my legs... so that was her head moving down. There were some scary moments when her heart beat would drop bellow 60 bpm and the nurse came running in to put my on a different side and an oxygen mask on. After taking deep breaths with the added oxygen for a few minutes, her heart beat came back up to 130-140 bpm. I was so worried and cried a bit just praying our baby stayed safe. Damen was great keeping me calm. If he was worried, he didn't show it. They said the heart beat slowed when I contracted and was on one side for too long either cause the chord was around her neck or she was pressed up against the chord during contractions.
They turned down the epi toward the end when I was about 9.5 cm dilated so I could feel the pressure to push but still have some pain relief. The nurse said my epi bag was almost out but she didn't want to put another one in since I would be done in 15- 20 minutes (LOL and was she wrong... to my dismay!). At 10 cm, they then told me to lay on my back and bring my knees up and to my chest to push. Being on my back made the baby's heart beat drop so I had to push lying on my right side with Damen helping to hold up my left leg. About an hour of hard pushing, she was crowning and the epi had worn off so i felt the tare that was happening... FUN FUN! My Dr was then called to get his ass in the room and tru to form, he was running late. He said he was 15 minute away... the nurse relplied that I didn't have 15 minutes and then my Dr said, "too bad, she'll have to wait."
FUCK NO is what i said... I have to push!
Damen was super pissed when he heard the doctor's reply to the nurse! So I pushed and a couple of pushes later, Ariana Cherie was born at 4:14pm on October 6, 2009. She was 7 lbs. 2 oz. and 19.5 inches long with a healthy set of lungs. The minutes after she was born happened so fast and was so surreal... here was this little thing that been kicking and growing inside me for months... she was a stranger but kinda wasn't. After a few minutes on my tummy, they whisked her away to clean her up and weighed her. We realized afterward, they didn't ask Damen to cut the chord which sucks but whatever. The nurses then pushed on my tummy to get the blood out and the placenta (which I asked to look at cause I am cool like that!). The pushing on my belly hurt like hell... followed by more pain from a few stitches down bellow where I had a 1st degree tare.
She was soon back on my chest for some skin to skin time and we had our first attempt to breast feed. Those moments were such a blur. I am glad that initial bonding time was caught on camera cause I really cant remember too much detail myself. I couldn't believe this little miricle was in my arms. I tried to soak in as much of her as I could... she had my hair, not a bit of curl from Damen, Damen's nose, my lip pout... she was precious. And now the overwhelming part of being first time parents begins!
We stayed 2 days in the hospital although they said we could leave after one day, we opted to stay and get as much help as possible easing into parenthood. Birthing was a messy ordeal... I wont go into detail about all the blood but just to say it was messy! Those first few days, I hurt EVERYWHERE! All my muscles must have been used during the pushing cause I hurt worse than any after workout soreness ever!
Ariana and I took to breast feeding like pros (thankfully!). She had no problem latching. It was funny and strange seeing my boobs serving an actual purpose. Damen was jealous of our bonding time and asked for some skin to skin with her but instead of sleeping on his chest, she was trying to clamp onto his nips which was hilarious!!!
I looked a mess but we were so happy and still in shock we were now parents. But we laugh through most of the fear and stress so I think we'll journey down this new path just fine.
Knowing we had to go to the hospital around 6am to be induced, we double checked to make sure all the bags were packed and went to bed around 10pm. The contractions were getting stronger and felt like someone was pushing my lower tummy up against the edge of the counter and pulling my abs down towards my feet... it was different then I thought contractions would feel like. Didn't have back pain... just a little achie which made laying in bed very uncomfortable! There was NO sleeping to be had for me! Hubby got a few hours of sleep in (guys always get over! LOL!). I kept watching the clock timing the contractions... at about 2 AM, they were now just about 5 minutes apart and getting very uncomfortable/painful. I got up to pee and a huge blood clot plopped in the toilet and my pad was soaked like I was having a heavy period. I freaked at the amount of blood so I called Labor & Delivery to see if I should come in earlier then expected. Got the green light! My hair was still wet from showering before bed so I just grabbed a big bowl of cereal & fruit and put out a huge bowl of food & water for the dog and off to the hospital we went!
After being checked at the hospital, I was now 3 cm dilated! They admitted me since I was well enough along and I was already scheduled to be induced a couple hours later. The contractions got stronger from feeling like my lower tummy was being jammed hard against a counter top to feeling like I was being stabbed where my lower tummy meets my pubic bone in combo with my abs being pulled down towards my feet. I was achie in my lower back but it wasn't sharp back pain labor. I could not get comfortable laying down on either side or back. Standing was not much better but because they would let me wear underwear, I didn't want to walk around and be dripping clops of bloody discharge (TMI!). Damen was getting frustrated with me because HE wanted to walk around and do the laboring positions & messages and stuff we learned during our child birth class. I love him for being excited to use all that he's learned BUT it not about what he wanted to do but what felt best for me at the time... he wasn't liking that I didn't want to do them and opted to sit or lay in bed. I was also getting a little annoyed when he would get distracted trying to play music on the laptop with a slide show of our pics... it wasn't playing right and after a few minutes I just wanted him to forget it and concentrate on helping me with my pain. I was getting VERY testie and he was getting irritated with my snappy attitude but DUDE, I AM BIRTHING A BABY DAMN IT! if any time I had a free pass to be bitchy, that was it LOL!
Hours passed and at about 9am I was almost 5 cm dilated and the contractions were between 3-2 minutes apart and so intense. They were offering IV drugs (narcotics) to take the edge of the pain but I didn't want to be sleep and loopy during the birth and IV drugs are shared with the baby which was not something we wanted. I have been told by many that narcotics make you groggy but you still feel all the pain... so why do it? The breathing helped get through contractions but it was so intense! If I had to, I felt I could continue without and pain medication but I was tired and was scared that they may come a point of no return for an epidural, so I gave in and requested one. About 9:45 am I got my Epi and OHHHH the sweet relief! I cried when they were putting in the needle not because of the pain... it didn't hurt at all to put in the epi... I was emotional over the pressure of going all natural and the possible risks (all be it they are low) of getting an epi. Ever since my accident 10 years ago, medical risks are HUGE worries for me and weigh on me heavily. But I said to myself, why torture yourself for hours when I could rest up for the hard part of pushing?!? I respect other women who chose to go all natural but there is no other way I would rather labor! After the epi, I was able to laugh and enjoy the build up to getting to finally hold my baby. We watched episode after episode of Friends on my laptop, listed to the CD we made of songs dedicated to Cornbread, I was able to shut my eyes bits here and there and rest up, snacked on some fruit cups and get ready for the hard part of pushing.
We got in trouble when we got caught eating snacks. The nurse said after getting the epi I was only allowed ice chips but we snuck some nibbles here and there when she was out of the room. I am about to push like I have never labored before and hadn't had anything to eat since the day before and no sleep wither... I will have my crackers and fruit cups damn it! We were taught in our labor class to sneak them in to keep out energy up and thank goodness for that cause I SOOOOO needed that energy when it was time to push!!!
I was shaking so much from the hormones of labor and the epi. I wasn't really cold but I was shaking like I was naked in a blizzard. The last couple of hours, I noticed my jaw hurt from my teeth chattering for hours. Damen kept playing with the thermostat to help me warm up then cool down when I got the sweats. He was worried but I told him it looks worse than it really felt.
I started to feel some pressure when she started to descend down the birth canal. It felt like a cantaloupe between my legs... so that was her head moving down. There were some scary moments when her heart beat would drop bellow 60 bpm and the nurse came running in to put my on a different side and an oxygen mask on. After taking deep breaths with the added oxygen for a few minutes, her heart beat came back up to 130-140 bpm. I was so worried and cried a bit just praying our baby stayed safe. Damen was great keeping me calm. If he was worried, he didn't show it. They said the heart beat slowed when I contracted and was on one side for too long either cause the chord was around her neck or she was pressed up against the chord during contractions.
They turned down the epi toward the end when I was about 9.5 cm dilated so I could feel the pressure to push but still have some pain relief. The nurse said my epi bag was almost out but she didn't want to put another one in since I would be done in 15- 20 minutes (LOL and was she wrong... to my dismay!). At 10 cm, they then told me to lay on my back and bring my knees up and to my chest to push. Being on my back made the baby's heart beat drop so I had to push lying on my right side with Damen helping to hold up my left leg. About an hour of hard pushing, she was crowning and the epi had worn off so i felt the tare that was happening... FUN FUN! My Dr was then called to get his ass in the room and tru to form, he was running late. He said he was 15 minute away... the nurse relplied that I didn't have 15 minutes and then my Dr said, "too bad, she'll have to wait."
FUCK NO is what i said... I have to push!
- My EPI wore off and this hurts like a biotch! It hurt more not to push than to push and feel it taring down there.
- My babies heart rate kept dropping with the contractions so I am not keeping her trapped in my vadge for an extra 15 minutes!
- Did I mention I was in pain like nothing I have ever felt before?
Damen was super pissed when he heard the doctor's reply to the nurse! So I pushed and a couple of pushes later, Ariana Cherie was born at 4:14pm on October 6, 2009. She was 7 lbs. 2 oz. and 19.5 inches long with a healthy set of lungs. The minutes after she was born happened so fast and was so surreal... here was this little thing that been kicking and growing inside me for months... she was a stranger but kinda wasn't. After a few minutes on my tummy, they whisked her away to clean her up and weighed her. We realized afterward, they didn't ask Damen to cut the chord which sucks but whatever. The nurses then pushed on my tummy to get the blood out and the placenta (which I asked to look at cause I am cool like that!). The pushing on my belly hurt like hell... followed by more pain from a few stitches down bellow where I had a 1st degree tare.
She was soon back on my chest for some skin to skin time and we had our first attempt to breast feed. Those moments were such a blur. I am glad that initial bonding time was caught on camera cause I really cant remember too much detail myself. I couldn't believe this little miricle was in my arms. I tried to soak in as much of her as I could... she had my hair, not a bit of curl from Damen, Damen's nose, my lip pout... she was precious. And now the overwhelming part of being first time parents begins!
We stayed 2 days in the hospital although they said we could leave after one day, we opted to stay and get as much help as possible easing into parenthood. Birthing was a messy ordeal... I wont go into detail about all the blood but just to say it was messy! Those first few days, I hurt EVERYWHERE! All my muscles must have been used during the pushing cause I hurt worse than any after workout soreness ever!
Ariana and I took to breast feeding like pros (thankfully!). She had no problem latching. It was funny and strange seeing my boobs serving an actual purpose. Damen was jealous of our bonding time and asked for some skin to skin with her but instead of sleeping on his chest, she was trying to clamp onto his nips which was hilarious!!!
I looked a mess but we were so happy and still in shock we were now parents. But we laugh through most of the fear and stress so I think we'll journey down this new path just fine.
Monday, October 5, 2009
She's coming out... we want the world to know...
As of my checkup this afternoon, I am 2 cm dilated and 80% effaced so all the crazy craps and bloody show from the weekend were actually doing something productive! I was ready to be disappointed and have the doc say I was not much more dilated than last week so yeah for progress!
I am to be induced tomorrow, heading to the hospital around 6am but I have been having contractions since around 2pm and they are now about 8 minutes apart so we may head in before the morning LOL!
We can't wait to meet you little one! We love you and we will be smooching you soon!
I am to be induced tomorrow, heading to the hospital around 6am but I have been having contractions since around 2pm and they are now about 8 minutes apart so we may head in before the morning LOL!
We can't wait to meet you little one! We love you and we will be smooching you soon!
Friday, October 2, 2009
The waiting game continues!
Boo hiss... what a tease this morning! Well, at least with the bloody show, we know my cervix is at work dilating finally! But labor still can still happen any time or even days away! *sigh*
Here is an online predictor I took:
http://pregnancyandbaby.sheknows.com/pregnancy/Detailed/Madame-Zaritska-predicts-your-birth-experience-736.htm
"The day you deliver, outside will be cloudy. Your baby will arrive in the late morning. After a labor lasting approximately 48 hours, your child, a girl, will be born. Your baby will weigh about 6 pounds, 11 ounces, and will be 21 inches long. This child will have dark green eyes and a lot of brown hair."
Here is an online predictor I took:
http://pregnancyandbaby.sheknows.com/pregnancy/Detailed/Madame-Zaritska-predicts-your-birth-experience-736.htm
"The day you deliver, outside will be cloudy. Your baby will arrive in the late morning. After a labor lasting approximately 48 hours, your child, a girl, will be born. Your baby will weigh about 6 pounds, 11 ounces, and will be 21 inches long. This child will have dark green eyes and a lot of brown hair."
Woke up to a nice yucky surprise!
Woke and went to the bathroom as usual but this time found a wet spot on my undies and shorts. When I wiped, found more pink in the discharge and looked in the toilet to see goops of my mucus plug with spots of red in it. YEAH! This means my cervix is dilating and there is actual progress going on! My shorts didn't have any smell to them so I don't think its urine. Put on a pad and will monitor the leaking to see if it saturates enough to have to go into L&D to be checked. If my water is breaking, I will have to go in even before contractions start to prevent against infection. If its not my water breaking, we will have to wait until I am contracting enough (about 5 minutes apart) before heading in.
Called Damen and gave him the update... the secretary in his office was excited in the background cheering LOL! Called my mom to let her know that something will be happening in the next 24 hours or so... hopefully!
So now I wait. Gonna shower and clean up some more and check back for more leakage. Let's get this party started little girl!
Called Damen and gave him the update... the secretary in his office was excited in the background cheering LOL! Called my mom to let her know that something will be happening in the next 24 hours or so... hopefully!
So now I wait. Gonna shower and clean up some more and check back for more leakage. Let's get this party started little girl!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Is Something Starting???
Trying not to get my hopes up cause I might be waiting for another week to birth this child... but last night I started getting some more cramps and a couple of full on contractions. They weren't enough to time ...just a couple lasting for a minute or 2 then they dissipated. Nothing but some mild cramps this morning. The cramps have been a bit more after eating breakfast and having some Starbucks (shhhh... don't tell Damen LOL!). Just now I started to notice some nipple tingling and slight pangs... don't know what the hell that is about!
Probably just preoccupied with every twinge hoping for signs of labor to start... but a woman can at least hope can't she!?! I have nothing better to do since all the prepping is done!
Probably just preoccupied with every twinge hoping for signs of labor to start... but a woman can at least hope can't she!?! I have nothing better to do since all the prepping is done!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
40+ Weeks Pregnant....
My due date came and went on Sunday. Had a checkup yesterday will little change to my progress. No change in the .5 cm dilated but my cervix has thinned a bit more... 70% effaced as compared to last week's 60% (woop-tee-doo!). Cornbread is still head down and really low so that's good. Her heart beat is still strong and she is still busting a move in there although not as frequent or strong kicks wise cause the space is so confined now for her. She twists and turns and will stretch her legs causing her to push out her booty and make my belly morph into a moving alien cone-head shape. Damen and I pat her booty and tell her to put it back in so momma doesn't get any stretch marks LOL!
So the waiting game continues. Next appointment is next Monday, Oct. 5th, and if I don't go into labor by then, they will schedule me for an induction by the end of next week. I hope she gets the party started on her own because induction increases you chance of needing a Cesarean... so come on Cornbread, stop being so shy and come on out! Sleeping sucks as it is so she needs to come out and share the insomnia fun with her Daddy! hehehe...
(She's getting extra nibbles and tickles for making us wait though!)
So the waiting game continues. Next appointment is next Monday, Oct. 5th, and if I don't go into labor by then, they will schedule me for an induction by the end of next week. I hope she gets the party started on her own because induction increases you chance of needing a Cesarean... so come on Cornbread, stop being so shy and come on out! Sleeping sucks as it is so she needs to come out and share the insomnia fun with her Daddy! hehehe...
(She's getting extra nibbles and tickles for making us wait though!)
Friday, September 25, 2009
*sigh* ...this waiting game sucks!
So bored waiting around for this baby to come out! Damen has requested I don't go window shopping anymore cause he's worried I may go into labor while out and about... but I am sooooo bored! Its too hot to walk outside so I would rather walk around the stores! He also went from last week telling Cornbread to stay in there for a little longer to now wanting to try all the old wives tale to induce labor! He said starting tomorrow it will be daily rituals of spicy food, walks, and nookie LOL! I laughed at the last bit because the thought of sex and the huge belly is too damn comical for words! My response was "good luck with that!"
My due date is Sunday the 27th. My guess is nothing will happen until October 1st. I am just hoping something happens before the doc has to induce. Induction increases the chance of needing a C-section and that's one I want to avoid most because of the added recovery time.
Dear Cornbread,
It has been a fun, crazy and surreal experience being your room and board for the past 9+ months. I have loved each new experience from the first sonogram to the first moment I felt you move inside and the first time your Daddy felt your ninja kicks. Those precious first will be treasured forever. The poking games you and Daddy play at my expense were fun when you were smaller but now its just too uncomfortable. You need to come on out to play now! We are all anxious to meet you and smother you with hugs and smooches and to nibble on those chipmunk cheeks of yours!
You have a lot of love waiting for you out here so hurry up little one! Of course... only if you're ready for a safe arrival... we love you sweetie!
See you soon!
Love,
~ Mom & Dad
My due date is Sunday the 27th. My guess is nothing will happen until October 1st. I am just hoping something happens before the doc has to induce. Induction increases the chance of needing a C-section and that's one I want to avoid most because of the added recovery time.
Dear Cornbread,
It has been a fun, crazy and surreal experience being your room and board for the past 9+ months. I have loved each new experience from the first sonogram to the first moment I felt you move inside and the first time your Daddy felt your ninja kicks. Those precious first will be treasured forever. The poking games you and Daddy play at my expense were fun when you were smaller but now its just too uncomfortable. You need to come on out to play now! We are all anxious to meet you and smother you with hugs and smooches and to nibble on those chipmunk cheeks of yours!
You have a lot of love waiting for you out here so hurry up little one! Of course... only if you're ready for a safe arrival... we love you sweetie!
See you soon!
Love,
~ Mom & Dad
Sunday, September 20, 2009
39 Weeks Pregnant... 1 week to go!!!!
...until my due date anyways. Two weeks until they will induce of she decides she doesn't want to leave my ute! Beside the normal expected uncomfortable stuff of lower back pain, groin pain due to ligaments stretching, excessive peeing, cramping and sleepless nights, feeling as big as a house... all is good. I have been very lucky to have a relatively easy pregnancy (all things considered) despite 3.5 weeks of hip pain that started last month. So thankful that has eased the past 2 weeks! Damen treated me to a day of pampering yesterday so I got my hair cut and a full pedicure with a long foot message... felt sooooo good! ;o)
My mom is getting antsy and calling every other day asking if there is any change yet. She's so excited. My next checkup is Weds and hopefully there is more dilation of my cervix by then. Last week was only a 1/2 cm dilation. In reality though, it doesn't mean anything because you can be 3 cm dilated for weeks before going into labor or not be dilated and go into labor a couple days later. Not knowing is the toughest.
I am starting to get wigged out about going into labor and what its going to feel like. I get menstrual like cramps this past week and though they are not "OMG" painful, they are very uncomfortable. Knowing its just going to get worse is a bit unnerving. I keep reminding myself, many have gone through this just fine but it is not knowing what exactly to expect or when it will happen that has me anxious. I have read the books, heard about other's experience but this is my first so it is a bit overwhelming.
Got a couple of things left to do this week... another once over cleaning the house, getting the pup groomed and stocking up on groceries, getting the infant car seat inspected, and a few more odds and ends to get at Target. I think keeping busy and not just thinking about labor is the best thing for me at this point.
My mom is getting antsy and calling every other day asking if there is any change yet. She's so excited. My next checkup is Weds and hopefully there is more dilation of my cervix by then. Last week was only a 1/2 cm dilation. In reality though, it doesn't mean anything because you can be 3 cm dilated for weeks before going into labor or not be dilated and go into labor a couple days later. Not knowing is the toughest.
I am starting to get wigged out about going into labor and what its going to feel like. I get menstrual like cramps this past week and though they are not "OMG" painful, they are very uncomfortable. Knowing its just going to get worse is a bit unnerving. I keep reminding myself, many have gone through this just fine but it is not knowing what exactly to expect or when it will happen that has me anxious. I have read the books, heard about other's experience but this is my first so it is a bit overwhelming.
Got a couple of things left to do this week... another once over cleaning the house, getting the pup groomed and stocking up on groceries, getting the infant car seat inspected, and a few more odds and ends to get at Target. I think keeping busy and not just thinking about labor is the best thing for me at this point.
*How far along?: 39 Weeks
*Total weight gain: 52 lb from pre-pregnancy weight :o(
*How big is baby?: Around 7lbs
*Maternity clothes?: I'm mainly in PJs and maternity clothes
*Sleep?: Having a really tough time falling asleep and then staying asleep because of having to get up and pee 1-2 times each night.
*Best moment this week?: The pedicure & hair cut yesterday.
*Movement?: Her kicks and turns that used to be fun and cute are now a bit painful because she lacks room. She favors my right side and has given be a few stretchmarks only on the lower right to prove it!
*Food cravings?: Ice-cream & fruit smoothies... anything cold and creamy!
*Labor signs?: Some cramping each day but nothing regular or intensifying. It feels more like menstrual cramps or that "I have to poop really bad" feeling only without the pooping part.
*Belly button in or out?: Still flat
*What I miss: Being able to turn in bed without struggling and feeling like my crotch is being torn in two, being able to sleep through the night and sleeping on my stomach.
*What I'm looking forward to: Finally being able to hold the little ninja queen in my tummy and smother her with kisses and seeing Damen holding her for the first time... I am betting he sheds a tear or 2. ;o)
*Milestone: Getting all the shopping lists complete and Damen finally saying "OK, she can come out now... just make sure its on the weekend at a reasonable hour." LOL!
Saturday, September 19, 2009
3:45 AM and I cannot sleep again!
This last week of pregnancy (maybe 2, grrrr!) is going to drag on at this pace! I have one more week until my due date... 2 weeks until they will induce if I go over... and I am SOOOOO over being pregnant! Last night I was cramping from dinner until I fell asleep then I woke up to pee around midnight and now again at 3:30am. So I am eating a mug of rocky road ice-cream to ease my frustration LOL!
Car seat bases are installed in both cars, baby clothes almost all put away, nursery is set up, and dad-to-be has been practicing diapering & swaddling a teddy bear this past week LOL! The things that are left to do is finish prepping the cloth diapers, organize the diaper station in the nursery and the diaper caddy downstairs, exchange my nursing tank & bra for something better (hate buying clothes online!), get the dog groomed, scour the house from top to bottom, stock up on groceries... then sit back and wait for the show to begin!
OK... maybe I'll try and go back to bed... or have one more scoop of ice-cream first ;o)
Car seat bases are installed in both cars, baby clothes almost all put away, nursery is set up, and dad-to-be has been practicing diapering & swaddling a teddy bear this past week LOL! The things that are left to do is finish prepping the cloth diapers, organize the diaper station in the nursery and the diaper caddy downstairs, exchange my nursing tank & bra for something better (hate buying clothes online!), get the dog groomed, scour the house from top to bottom, stock up on groceries... then sit back and wait for the show to begin!
OK... maybe I'll try and go back to bed... or have one more scoop of ice-cream first ;o)
Sunday, September 13, 2009
2 Weeks to go! (Hopefully!)
A little less than 2 weeks until my due date! And OMG I am ready to evict her from my uterus! I am so unbelievable uncomfortable! My lower back is killing me, cannot sleep more than 3 hours each night because of the pain and discomfort and having to get up to pee in the night... being a light sleeper makes getting back to sleep impossible! Getting in & out of bed and turning from one side to another is the WORST part of my days! These maneuvers cause such groin pain... my crotch ligaments feel like they are being torn apart as if my legs are being used in a tug of war fight.
I feel bad for Damen because he has been stuck with the brunt of the house work and he is already working such long hours. His weekends are spent vacuuming and washing the floors and the office work he takes home with him. I just hope I don't get a Cesarean because that will put the work load on him for a little longer after the baby is born. I want to be as mobile as possible after the baby is born.
Other than that, we are just waiting. Damen had a crash course last weekend in baby care and changing diapers using a teddy bear... it was so fun seeing try to get it down knowing it'll be a ton more different with a squirming crying little one LOL! He is gonna be a great father... my heart swells thinking how blessed I am to have him as the father of my child. She will be so loved and protected... and have the strong warm loving security of a father who would always be there for her... all the things I never had from a father figure... it fills me with so much joy seeing the love and excitement in Damen's eyes. I love him deeper everyday.
I feel bad for Damen because he has been stuck with the brunt of the house work and he is already working such long hours. His weekends are spent vacuuming and washing the floors and the office work he takes home with him. I just hope I don't get a Cesarean because that will put the work load on him for a little longer after the baby is born. I want to be as mobile as possible after the baby is born.
Other than that, we are just waiting. Damen had a crash course last weekend in baby care and changing diapers using a teddy bear... it was so fun seeing try to get it down knowing it'll be a ton more different with a squirming crying little one LOL! He is gonna be a great father... my heart swells thinking how blessed I am to have him as the father of my child. She will be so loved and protected... and have the strong warm loving security of a father who would always be there for her... all the things I never had from a father figure... it fills me with so much joy seeing the love and excitement in Damen's eyes. I love him deeper everyday.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
37 Weeks and counting....
It amazes me, scares me and excites me that we are so close to being able to see, hug and smooch on our little girl. She has grown so much just in the last week's growth spurt. There is NO mistaking a kick for a punch! I can feel the difference between legs moving and arms, a knee verses a foot poking out... its crazy! We spent our Labor Day at the movies and watched GI Joe and I think Cornbread was trying to get her Ninja on during the loud fight scenes LOL! At one point she was laying sidewards with her round booty poking out my front above my belly button and her Ninja kicks were busting my right side where my arm was... I could feel her foot print from the outside! It was funny but painful... but that's what I get for eating all those cookies during the show!
My mobility is MUCH improved thanks to the 2 weeks of physical therapy and the baby dropping in position. The stabbing nerve pain on my right hip is no longer there unless I step wrong on it... now I am waddling with lower back pain like your average 9 month pregnant woman. I was able to even get out for the Labor Day sales and finish up the remaining baby shopping... though I still had to order most of the remainder on line cause in-store selections are slim pickings for completing my registry at Target. (Booo!) The hospital over-night bag is almost complete... gotta wash my new nursing tanks and granny panties (LOL) and coming home outfit for after the birth. Prepping the cloth diapers this week and loading up the diaper bag with baby's coming home outfit. We had some laughs buying Tucks medicated pads and other treats for the after pain of my girly bits... the things us women have to endure! Damen still is struggling with HUGE baby envy and ended up buying himself some Flintstones gummy bear vitamin chewables and bubble bath soap (HAHAHA) cause he says its not fare they get all the fun yummy stuff! I am gonna have 2 babies on my hands shortly LOL!
It was like busting out of jail this weekend cause I have been stuck at the house for 3 weeks! I got dressed up and we went out to dinner twice this weekend just cause I could! It is good to get out and to enjoy our couple's time while we can cause it will be a while before we can easily go out for dinner once the baby arrives. Damen found his new fave place to eat... it is a lovely Afghan family owned restaurant with patio dinning and a belly dancer for entertaining. The food was so yummy too! He has been hooked on middle eastern food since all his deployments... and I am lovin it also!
It was a productive but relaxing weekend over all. I had a few bouts of contractions last week but nothing regular. They lasted about an hour or 2 each time and were more like intense menstrual cramps. Damen lovingly said they were great practice for breathing techniques... thanks! They sucked but a sobering reality of what's to come!
My mobility is MUCH improved thanks to the 2 weeks of physical therapy and the baby dropping in position. The stabbing nerve pain on my right hip is no longer there unless I step wrong on it... now I am waddling with lower back pain like your average 9 month pregnant woman. I was able to even get out for the Labor Day sales and finish up the remaining baby shopping... though I still had to order most of the remainder on line cause in-store selections are slim pickings for completing my registry at Target. (Booo!) The hospital over-night bag is almost complete... gotta wash my new nursing tanks and granny panties (LOL) and coming home outfit for after the birth. Prepping the cloth diapers this week and loading up the diaper bag with baby's coming home outfit. We had some laughs buying Tucks medicated pads and other treats for the after pain of my girly bits... the things us women have to endure! Damen still is struggling with HUGE baby envy and ended up buying himself some Flintstones gummy bear vitamin chewables and bubble bath soap (HAHAHA) cause he says its not fare they get all the fun yummy stuff! I am gonna have 2 babies on my hands shortly LOL!
It was like busting out of jail this weekend cause I have been stuck at the house for 3 weeks! I got dressed up and we went out to dinner twice this weekend just cause I could! It is good to get out and to enjoy our couple's time while we can cause it will be a while before we can easily go out for dinner once the baby arrives. Damen found his new fave place to eat... it is a lovely Afghan family owned restaurant with patio dinning and a belly dancer for entertaining. The food was so yummy too! He has been hooked on middle eastern food since all his deployments... and I am lovin it also!
It was a productive but relaxing weekend over all. I had a few bouts of contractions last week but nothing regular. They lasted about an hour or 2 each time and were more like intense menstrual cramps. Damen lovingly said they were great practice for breathing techniques... thanks! They sucked but a sobering reality of what's to come!
Sunday, August 30, 2009
4 Weeks Left!!!!
With my horrible hip pain due to a pinched nerve in my right hip... I am hoping she comes early so I am hoping that 3 weeks is all I have left! About 2 weeks ago while at work, my right hip got progressively more painful. By the time I got home, I could barely walk it hurt so bad with each step. We have a 2 story house so going upstairs was torture! The doctor's office was closed so I had to wait until Monday to call and see what my options were. that weekend sucked! I called in sick to work from then on and have had to stop working 3 weeks earlier than planned.
Calling the doc was disappointing because they first said to take some Tylenol (WTF, that doesn't even help with headaches!) then offered some narcotics for stronger pain meds... ummm NO thanks! They said the only cure was to birth the baby... no shit, really?!? So after some probing, I got referred to a physical therapists for pain management until the baby is born. They said PT won't help much... but I would rather give it a try than do nothing and suffer or take narcotics!
Its been a week of PT and yes, I still walk VERY slow and don't get around much but it has helped ease the muscle tightness and take the edge of the pain. I can manage with the pain around the house but the worse part is being limited from shopping and the house work I wanted to get done before the baby is born. Its so frustrating! Now I am not working and have the time but am physically not able to scrub down the house and stock up on last minute items. Damen is helping a bunch thought even with his long hours at work. He is such an amazing support and I am so thankful for that! Still it's frustrating cause sending him to the store for nursing bras and tanks etc. is difficult cause he is a guy LOL! Online shopping is my other option... paying for shipping sucks some but what else can I do?
Anyways, we are excited that the end is near and we will soon see and hug and kiss on our little girl! Her 3D picture is right on Damen's night stand and he looks at her every morning and rubs on my tummy and says good morning to her before getting ready for work. He says it still hasn't sunk in and won't until he sees and holds her. It's all to real for me specially feeling her butt push out on one side or knowing that poke was an elbow or foot etc. Its so amazing! She is getting so big now that her movement is more of rolls and nudges rather than flips and is not as frequent as 3 weeks ago.
At 36 weeks, she is roughly 5.5 lbs and boy does my back feel it! I can only stand over the sink or counter for 10 minutes at a time before crying uncle. I catch myself in the mirror and holy crap is my belly huge! I am not the least bit nervous or scared of taking care of her after she is born but the actually birthing process scares the hell out of me! The idea of the pain is bad but I think the thing that scares me most is unknowing... unknowing when it will happen and what it will feel like since this is my first. Sure you see it on TV, read all the books and hear from friends... but actually experiencing it yourself and going through the long labor is a whole other thing! The only things in life that stress me and wigs me out is the unknown... not knowing is the center of all my fears.
Damen is reassuring and supportive and I know with him by my side, we'll get through this fine. I am always amazed by his calmness. He will be an amazing coach, labor partner and father... I am so blessed and love him deeper than I ever thought love could grow. Holding our daughter and seeing what our love has created will be the greatest gift of all.
Calling the doc was disappointing because they first said to take some Tylenol (WTF, that doesn't even help with headaches!) then offered some narcotics for stronger pain meds... ummm NO thanks! They said the only cure was to birth the baby... no shit, really?!? So after some probing, I got referred to a physical therapists for pain management until the baby is born. They said PT won't help much... but I would rather give it a try than do nothing and suffer or take narcotics!
Its been a week of PT and yes, I still walk VERY slow and don't get around much but it has helped ease the muscle tightness and take the edge of the pain. I can manage with the pain around the house but the worse part is being limited from shopping and the house work I wanted to get done before the baby is born. Its so frustrating! Now I am not working and have the time but am physically not able to scrub down the house and stock up on last minute items. Damen is helping a bunch thought even with his long hours at work. He is such an amazing support and I am so thankful for that! Still it's frustrating cause sending him to the store for nursing bras and tanks etc. is difficult cause he is a guy LOL! Online shopping is my other option... paying for shipping sucks some but what else can I do?
Anyways, we are excited that the end is near and we will soon see and hug and kiss on our little girl! Her 3D picture is right on Damen's night stand and he looks at her every morning and rubs on my tummy and says good morning to her before getting ready for work. He says it still hasn't sunk in and won't until he sees and holds her. It's all to real for me specially feeling her butt push out on one side or knowing that poke was an elbow or foot etc. Its so amazing! She is getting so big now that her movement is more of rolls and nudges rather than flips and is not as frequent as 3 weeks ago.
At 36 weeks, she is roughly 5.5 lbs and boy does my back feel it! I can only stand over the sink or counter for 10 minutes at a time before crying uncle. I catch myself in the mirror and holy crap is my belly huge! I am not the least bit nervous or scared of taking care of her after she is born but the actually birthing process scares the hell out of me! The idea of the pain is bad but I think the thing that scares me most is unknowing... unknowing when it will happen and what it will feel like since this is my first. Sure you see it on TV, read all the books and hear from friends... but actually experiencing it yourself and going through the long labor is a whole other thing! The only things in life that stress me and wigs me out is the unknown... not knowing is the center of all my fears.
Damen is reassuring and supportive and I know with him by my side, we'll get through this fine. I am always amazed by his calmness. He will be an amazing coach, labor partner and father... I am so blessed and love him deeper than I ever thought love could grow. Holding our daughter and seeing what our love has created will be the greatest gift of all.
Friday, July 31, 2009
3D Sonogram Pics @ 31 Weeks Pregnant
The last pic that shows her little indent between the lower lip and chin is definitely from me LOL!
8 months pregnant and counting!
Its hot here and I have reached the uncomfortable phase! Sorry no updates recently. Been preoccupied and tired when I get home. I have enough energy to make dinner then head straight to bed.
We had our 3D ultrasound on Monday which was great and so much fun seeing her face for the first time. I will post pics here tomorrow. She has my lower lip pout LOL! I can't wait to see her now... the wait is killing me!
The crib and changer/dresser will arrive next week. So excited to see the nursery finally come together. We got the car seat and will be setting that up shortly. The bedside co-sleeper is already put together. I can already picture her sleeping in there ;o)
Had a rough day yesterday with a splitting headache all day... so I am taking it easy today and am going to nap right now. I will post the recent pics later and a few belly shots since I have been bad about posting pics too.
We had our 3D ultrasound on Monday which was great and so much fun seeing her face for the first time. I will post pics here tomorrow. She has my lower lip pout LOL! I can't wait to see her now... the wait is killing me!
The crib and changer/dresser will arrive next week. So excited to see the nursery finally come together. We got the car seat and will be setting that up shortly. The bedside co-sleeper is already put together. I can already picture her sleeping in there ;o)
Had a rough day yesterday with a splitting headache all day... so I am taking it easy today and am going to nap right now. I will post the recent pics later and a few belly shots since I have been bad about posting pics too.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Hello 3rd Trimester! (Holy Crap... we're almost done?!?)
*How far along?: 28 weeks
*Total weight gain: 31 lbs... I have been bad last month due to birthday cheesecake and other goodies... pretty much celebrated the entire month eating!
*How big is baby?: about 2.25 lbs
*Maternity clothes?: pretty much all of them minus some of hubby's t-shirts ;o)
*Sleep?: OK most nights but getting up to pee in the night and then having a hard time falling asleep afterwards is my enemy. My work schedule had a few changes which disrupted my sleep for a few weeks but finally got them to change it back to an earlier morning schedule.
*Best moment this week?: Went to Damen's friends wedding in Denver and had a great 4th! It was a sweet wedding and its fun remembering our day and all our feelings of excitement, love and joy then and feeling blessed that we still feel that warmth and laughter 4+ years later despite some challenges and sideline drama.
*Movement?: TONS! She is a kicker! Maybe she will be a soccer player or kick boxing instructor?
*Food cravings?: anything that's baked & chocolate!
*Labor signs?: none so far
*Belly button in or out?: flat
*What I miss: The ability to bend over comfortable to put on my shoes!
*What I'm looking forward to: start our birthing class next Sat. and the 3D/4D ultrasound at the end of the month
*Milestone: Entering the 3rd Trimester this week
*Total weight gain: 31 lbs... I have been bad last month due to birthday cheesecake and other goodies... pretty much celebrated the entire month eating!
*How big is baby?: about 2.25 lbs
*Maternity clothes?: pretty much all of them minus some of hubby's t-shirts ;o)
*Sleep?: OK most nights but getting up to pee in the night and then having a hard time falling asleep afterwards is my enemy. My work schedule had a few changes which disrupted my sleep for a few weeks but finally got them to change it back to an earlier morning schedule.
*Best moment this week?: Went to Damen's friends wedding in Denver and had a great 4th! It was a sweet wedding and its fun remembering our day and all our feelings of excitement, love and joy then and feeling blessed that we still feel that warmth and laughter 4+ years later despite some challenges and sideline drama.
*Movement?: TONS! She is a kicker! Maybe she will be a soccer player or kick boxing instructor?
*Food cravings?: anything that's baked & chocolate!
*Labor signs?: none so far
*Belly button in or out?: flat
*What I miss: The ability to bend over comfortable to put on my shoes!
*What I'm looking forward to: start our birthing class next Sat. and the 3D/4D ultrasound at the end of the month
*Milestone: Entering the 3rd Trimester this week
Saturday, June 27, 2009
27 Weeks... almost done with 2nd Trimester!
The first Tri dragged on so slow but all of a sudden we find ourselves in the home stretch and entering the 3 trimester after this week! Cornbread has a REAL name now but we are not announcing it until her birth. The poor girl will be called Cornbread by Damen and I as a nickname for the rest of her life though, hehehe! She is still kicking strong and her most active is late afternoon and 2-3:00am where it feels like she is following a Tae-Bo workout in there! Damen is away TDY for a week and will be back the day before we have to leave for a wedding in Denver for the 4th of July weekend. This will be interesting flying and being pregnant! I normally dehydrate myself cause I hate the cramped nasty bathrooms on the plane but I have to drink plenty of water in my condition so I am soooo not gonna like this! That small bathroom is gonna suck even more with a belly in my way!
On a not so happy note, we are dealing with some family drama a-g-a-i-n and true to form, my MIL feels like making demands and being selfish and belligerent to get her way on something so ridiculous rather than being understanding towards our needs at the time of the birth. Her inability to see past her own selfish emotions and her verbal attacks on Damen and me when she is angry for not getting her way is beyond immature, inappropriate and abhorrent... borderline emotionally abusive! She even sank to a new low by calling my mom with ulterior motives of getting info from her to use against us and see if she can get her angry at us too! She is out of line and there is no justification for her behavior.
Being a active presence in the family we are building is a privilege NOT a right and with that privilege comes responsibilities. It requires being respectfully of our decisions and respecting our boundaries as parents and as husband and wife. You violate that basic requirement and your are not welcome in our home. If you see this as unfair or uncaring, seek some counseling because you have a warped sense of what a loving relationship should look like.
I am sad for Damen. He has to deal with the brunt of her verbal venom because he is protecting me from the added stress and emotional strain. This was not how he pictured things to play out when he envisioned have kids. It's heartbreaking.
AT 27 WEEKS PREGNANT:
This week, your baby weighs almost 2 pounds (like a head of cauliflower) and is about 14 1/2 inches long with her legs extended. She's sleeping and waking at regular intervals, opening and closing her eyes, and perhaps even sucking her fingers. With more brain tissue developing, your baby's brain is very active now. While her lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning — with a lot of medical help — if she were to be born now. Chalk up any tiny rhythmic movements you may be feeling to a case of baby hiccups, which may be common from now on. Each episode usually lasts only a few moments, and they don't bother her, so just relax and enjoy the tickle.
On a not so happy note, we are dealing with some family drama a-g-a-i-n and true to form, my MIL feels like making demands and being selfish and belligerent to get her way on something so ridiculous rather than being understanding towards our needs at the time of the birth. Her inability to see past her own selfish emotions and her verbal attacks on Damen and me when she is angry for not getting her way is beyond immature, inappropriate and abhorrent... borderline emotionally abusive! She even sank to a new low by calling my mom with ulterior motives of getting info from her to use against us and see if she can get her angry at us too! She is out of line and there is no justification for her behavior.
Being a active presence in the family we are building is a privilege NOT a right and with that privilege comes responsibilities. It requires being respectfully of our decisions and respecting our boundaries as parents and as husband and wife. You violate that basic requirement and your are not welcome in our home. If you see this as unfair or uncaring, seek some counseling because you have a warped sense of what a loving relationship should look like.
I am sad for Damen. He has to deal with the brunt of her verbal venom because he is protecting me from the added stress and emotional strain. This was not how he pictured things to play out when he envisioned have kids. It's heartbreaking.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Bought the bedding...
So we are waiting until July 4th sales to buy the furniture from Babies 'R Us (BRU). I really really wanted a different more modern looking set from a local baby store but opted for the discounts and sales + coupons I could use at BRU for a version made by the same company but less style options at chain stores. It still looks nice and got great reviews for sturdiness and safety. It's a convertible crib and converts to a full size bed so she can use it for the next 18+ years.
The bedding was hard to find because all girl crib bedding seems to be pink only! Yes I could have gone neutral but whats the fun in that since we knew it was a girl... I wanted girly but not overly common pink... so we went lavender:
We only got the crib bedding set and window valance, not all the matchy matchy extraneous stuff. We won't be painting the nursery walls because we don't feel like having to paint it back when we leave in 3 years. They will stay a neutral latte color like the rest of the house. With color form the bedding and drapes and some stuff to put up on the walls like letter decals and maybe some wall art from Target or Marshall's, the room will be super cute!
At 25 weeks, the baby is kicking stronger and more frequently. She definitely is almost on a regular schedule... kicking for an hour then resting for 2-3 hours and then back at it again. Her kicks are higher up now and can be felt at the top of my belly above the belly button and she has moved to kick more on the left side (depending on which way I am laying down) which she used to just kick to my right. My belly is bigger since last week and its gotten hard to bend over and pickup things on the floor. I have also lost the ability to see and sometimes reach my nether region in the shower LOL! Painting my toe nails is also an impossible task without making a mess of it. The WORST part so far is the going poop! Constipation is a biotch! I was in practice labor for an hour yesterday trying to birth one out! Hurt like hell and was almost impossible to flush just to give you a sense of the size of it! Yeah, yeah... TMI but deal with it, it's a fact of life... we all poop! I am sure Damen is sick of hearing my poop stories though LOL! It's my way of getting him mentally ready for the messy finale in September!
The bedding was hard to find because all girl crib bedding seems to be pink only! Yes I could have gone neutral but whats the fun in that since we knew it was a girl... I wanted girly but not overly common pink... so we went lavender:
We only got the crib bedding set and window valance, not all the matchy matchy extraneous stuff. We won't be painting the nursery walls because we don't feel like having to paint it back when we leave in 3 years. They will stay a neutral latte color like the rest of the house. With color form the bedding and drapes and some stuff to put up on the walls like letter decals and maybe some wall art from Target or Marshall's, the room will be super cute!At 25 weeks, the baby is kicking stronger and more frequently. She definitely is almost on a regular schedule... kicking for an hour then resting for 2-3 hours and then back at it again. Her kicks are higher up now and can be felt at the top of my belly above the belly button and she has moved to kick more on the left side (depending on which way I am laying down) which she used to just kick to my right. My belly is bigger since last week and its gotten hard to bend over and pickup things on the floor. I have also lost the ability to see and sometimes reach my nether region in the shower LOL! Painting my toe nails is also an impossible task without making a mess of it. The WORST part so far is the going poop! Constipation is a biotch! I was in practice labor for an hour yesterday trying to birth one out! Hurt like hell and was almost impossible to flush just to give you a sense of the size of it! Yeah, yeah... TMI but deal with it, it's a fact of life... we all poop! I am sure Damen is sick of hearing my poop stories though LOL! It's my way of getting him mentally ready for the messy finale in September!
Monday, June 8, 2009
24 Weeks Mark!!! ...and a recent scare!
We are now 6 month along and have reached the viability date! If Cornbread were to be born now, she would have a chance of survival outside the womb but she better stay in there until September or else! You hear me young lady!?! (LOL)
We had a bit of a scare last Sat while playing mini golf. I felt some liquid run down my leg and wen to the bathroom to find some leakage which didn't look to be urine so we ended out put-put game to go to the emergency birthing center and get checked out incase it was amniotic fluid leaking. I was so scared and was crying because I was in such a panic since it was way too early for birth. Viability or not, she would have such a struggle being born this early! Damen stayed calm and kept reassuring me everything was probably fine and tried to calm my nerves and prevent the tears from flowing. He later admitted he was so scared but didn't let me know it until we got the ok that everything was fine and sent home. Luckily, it was not amniotic fluid and was most likely she was pressing on my bladder causing the leak. It didn't look or smell like urine which was why we went to the hospital just to make sure. They ran some tests and looked internally to see if they saw any amniotic fluid leaking and if my cervix was closed... all looked ok. We were told that next time to put a pad on and is the pad gets soaked and I am leaking more and it didn't appear to be urine, to come in with the pad and get checked again. They agreed its always better to be safe than sorry.... though they kept asking if we were first time parents... cause confusion and panic is expected then I am sure!
Anyways, while we were waiting for the doc to see us, Damen had his hand on my belly trying to calm me down and jokingly was telling our little girl to stay in there and hang tight. He felt her kick for the first time while he was doing it! Finally he had the right timing to feel her! I have been feeling and seeing her kicks for 4 weeks now but it wasn't until the past week that they have become so regular and stronger. When I get Damen to put his hand on my belly, she stops and then he gets impatient and moves away before she starts again. When he felt her, he said he thought he felt something similar before but wasn't sure. now the kicks are more pronounced and he was sure he felt it. YEA!
So that was our crazy weekend. My next checkup will be on my birthday the end of this week. It is just gonna be a weigh in and measurement of my belly and glucose test for gestational diabetes.
We have picked out our crib and dresser and will be ordering that on the 4th of July (waiting for the sales!). I'll post pics and stuff soon.
Monday, May 18, 2009
What a kick!
21 Weeks Pregnant
Until now it has just been nudges and weird swishy, turning motions in my lower abs... it is really hard to describe. But Just now, as I was looking down at my laptop, I noticed a popcorn like pop of my tummy and I could actually see my tummy bounce up really quickly! It was one quick pop of a bounce and I thought I felt that yesterday afternoon after coming home from work as sitting watching TV but wasn't sure if I was seeing what I was seeing. But it just happened again a few minutes ago and this time I saw the motion as well as felt it! I had my hand over my belly button area trying to see if I could feel it if it were to happen again... but no joy, there was no repeat performance.
Damn it! Hubby isn't home this week either! Uggg! Totally would have had him over to come feel if he can feel it! Hopefully by the end of the week when he comes home it will start to happen more regularly and gets to see it too. This is so exciting!
So far as of last week's appointment, I have gained a total of 20 lbs. I blame 5 lbs of it on constipation though! ;o) That's not bad at the halfway point. I need to get walking more often though but its so hard to get up early to walk before work and the heat of the day since I am not sleeping through the night any more... have to get up 1-2 times each night to pee and its hard from me to fall back asleep. Then after a full day's work and the long commute, I am too tired to do much of anything. I need to try harder to keep my weight gain within a reasonable range.
As soon as Hubby gets home with the camera, I will post a first belly pic. I am also trying to learn how to rip the DVD with our last sonogram on it to post a video of little Corn-Muffin in motion.
Until now it has just been nudges and weird swishy, turning motions in my lower abs... it is really hard to describe. But Just now, as I was looking down at my laptop, I noticed a popcorn like pop of my tummy and I could actually see my tummy bounce up really quickly! It was one quick pop of a bounce and I thought I felt that yesterday afternoon after coming home from work as sitting watching TV but wasn't sure if I was seeing what I was seeing. But it just happened again a few minutes ago and this time I saw the motion as well as felt it! I had my hand over my belly button area trying to see if I could feel it if it were to happen again... but no joy, there was no repeat performance.
Damn it! Hubby isn't home this week either! Uggg! Totally would have had him over to come feel if he can feel it! Hopefully by the end of the week when he comes home it will start to happen more regularly and gets to see it too. This is so exciting!
So far as of last week's appointment, I have gained a total of 20 lbs. I blame 5 lbs of it on constipation though! ;o) That's not bad at the halfway point. I need to get walking more often though but its so hard to get up early to walk before work and the heat of the day since I am not sleeping through the night any more... have to get up 1-2 times each night to pee and its hard from me to fall back asleep. Then after a full day's work and the long commute, I am too tired to do much of anything. I need to try harder to keep my weight gain within a reasonable range.
As soon as Hubby gets home with the camera, I will post a first belly pic. I am also trying to learn how to rip the DVD with our last sonogram on it to post a video of little Corn-Muffin in motion.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Team Pink for us....
We had the best day yesterday! Our big sonogram went very smoothly and we got a clear crotch shot of the little one who has revealed herself to us like the little lady she is LOL! D was in shock and didn't understand what he was seeing on the screen... had to point it out and explain over and over what was what on the screen shot. So Cornbread is now officially Corn Muffin LOL!
She has grown so much and is so mobile since the last sonogram 4 weeks ago. Its so amazing seeing her kick her feet and waving her hands... there is actually a little person in there!?! Words can not express our joy and excitement! The appointment went well and all my blood tests and screenings have come back clear thankfully... looks like a healthy baby is on her way. Her growth measurements are all on schedule as well.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
1 more week untill the big Ultra Sound!!!!
Sooooo excited! We find out the sex of Cornbread 1 week from now! We are now 19 weeks along and I am still feeling the occasional nudges and pokes but only notice them after eating when I am sitting still or lying back for a bit. I can't wait until they are more pronounced and Damen can feel them from the outside too.My BFF, Emily, is due to pop in 3 weeks. Its crazy we are having our first child only a few months apart! Time seems to have flown by but at times (more so the first 3 month of this pregnancy) it seem to creep by. I am starting to feel the pressure of getting started on the nesting phase to get baby ready by the next couple of month. I want to be ready if the baby decides to come a little earlier than expected. Once we find out the sex... its a green light on shopping... FUN!
So Cornbread is the size of a mango. All the organs are in place and the sensory functions are now developed so the little one is just starting to hear sounds and can taste hints of the flavors of what I am eating in the aminiotic fluid. From here on out, Cornbread wiwll be mostly focused on growing and maturing his/her organs and gaining more weight.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
WTH was that... Baby movement?!
Ok, for the past 2 weeks there has been strange sensations in my lower abs almost gas like at time but no toot follows... strange throbbing/vibrations at times after eating a meal or random pangs for a few seconds. I am always questioning myself and explaining it away as just Ute growing pangs or gas but FOR SURE I felt some pokes this afternoon while at work!!! I was sitting at my desk and out of nowhere there were a few popcorn like pokes or nudges on my lower abs slight right of center!
I was grinning for the last hour of my work day. This was unmistakable... and so amazingly weird but exciting! I think my iffy sensations the past week were the beginning flutters but since this is my first pregnancy, I wasn't sure what it would feel like so it was hard to say what was what. But today, Cornbread made his/her presence known!
Then I came came home to the most lovingly sweet husband who made quite a spread for diner... pot roast, gravy, home-made mash potatoes and corn. Sooo yummy! I am so blessed and excited for our new adventures.
2 more weeks and we find out if we are have a mini-me or mini-D... stay tuned!
I was grinning for the last hour of my work day. This was unmistakable... and so amazingly weird but exciting! I think my iffy sensations the past week were the beginning flutters but since this is my first pregnancy, I wasn't sure what it would feel like so it was hard to say what was what. But today, Cornbread made his/her presence known!
Then I came came home to the most lovingly sweet husband who made quite a spread for diner... pot roast, gravy, home-made mash potatoes and corn. Sooo yummy! I am so blessed and excited for our new adventures.
2 more weeks and we find out if we are have a mini-me or mini-D... stay tuned!
Monday, April 6, 2009
15 Weeks and no longer able to fit my clothes!
As of middle of last week, I can no longer fit my pants. My shirts are too small due to my larger boobies... that part is kinda cool like a trial boob job LOL! I got a little of a pooch on my lower abs but at this point it looks more like I ate too many cupcakes lately rather than being obviously pregnant. Gotta love in-between stages! I need to wear one of these every day until I show more!
So I have started buying some maternity wear, mostly skirts and tops, couple of dresses for now. Can't wait to find out the sex of the little one to be able to buy the nursery stuff. We could go gender neutral on some to buy sooner than later but what if the fun in that? I want violets if its girl and earthy tones for a boy. We will find out which color scheme to go with in about 5 more weeks... at our 20 week big ultrasound appointment.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Welcome to the 2nd Trimester!
2nd Trimester started midway last week. Counting down until I feel the first flutters of movement... many sources it happens between 15-17 weeks! Not much has changed since my 12 week post. Still no baby bump other than some bloat and the pouch I acquired from our "fun" time in Kansas.D has been away for the past week and isn't due back until maybe the 9th of April. I hope he comes back soon cause I am board talking to myself and our pup at night.
Started looking at maternity clothes this weekend. I feel silly shopping for them when I am not showing fully yet but my pants are becoming more and more uncomfortable specially when sitting at all day at work. Even with the belly band, there is just too much pressure on my lower abs. I think I am going to stick to buying mostly skirts and dresses rather than jeans cause I will be full on buddha belly in the heat of summer... pants aren't as cool as a flowy skirt. Only 6 months left until show time... CRAZY isn't it?!?
Thursday, March 19, 2009
First baby pics!!!
I haven't been able to keep up with blogging between work and extreme exhaustion... but here are the 12 week updates:
We had our first sonogram last Tues and are waiting for the results from the first trimester screening... but so far everything looks to be normal (thank God!). Here are Cornbread's first baby pics!
He/she was measuring 12 weeks & 2 days as of 3/17... 3 more days than my charting calculations but maybe Cornbread's just a fast grower ;o)
It was so amazing seeing him/her move the little arms and legs as the technician moved the sonogram probe to get the right angle for measuring the little's growth progress. It’s so crazy surreal to think this little life is living and growing inside of me! I think it has finally sunk in for D... he's gotten all protective and super gooberlishly mushy lately (hehehe). We have sent out announcement to everyone... so it's official... we are going to be parents! OMG!
It makes it more real with visible proof of the miracle growing inside (besides the constipation, mild aches and nausea). In about 4 more weeks I will start to be able to feel the little one move! I am in awww of the life we are creating!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
8 weeks and exhasted...
We are now at 8 weeks and little Cornbread is the size of a raspberry. Who knew growing a berry can make you so exhasted! Still feeling bloated, constipated and perpetually drained even after a full night's sleep. I have notice a few pangs around my ute, maybe growing pains? I have my first appointment with the OB nurse on Friday. It will not be very exciting, just paper work and going over family medical history, answering questions, do's and don'ts, etc. Hopefuly I will have an esay time of scheduling the first physical exam at around 12weeks since Damen is shcedule to got TDY that same week. His insane night time work hours the next 4 weeks are going to suck becuase I am so damn exhausted all the time and he is either at work or sleeping... kinda going at it a lone for a bit.Its raining like crazy this past week which is cramping my walking workouts. Not good since I am getting chubbier by the day LOL! I just dont wnat the weight gain to get out of control especcialy being so early on. Trying to get through this week and can't wait for my energy level to return to normal. Speaking of which... time for sleepy time!
Monday, January 26, 2009
I HATE dealing with military healthcare!!!
It was supposed to be an exciting first visit to confirm the HPT we took last week. The morning sucked because of my restlessness last night. I went to sleep early (8pm) but woke up sweating and achy at 1am then couldn’t fall back asleep until 4am. D got up for work at 6:30 am which woke me too. *sigh*
Got out of bed at 7am and fixed breakfast with some yummy decaf latte. Then during my shower, I started getting queasy and had to sit for a few minutes. On my way out the door, I realized my military ID wasn't in my wallet (WTF?!?) and searched high and low for 15 minutes but then had to leave or I would miss my appointment. I figured I would just get a temporary pass with my driver’s license like had on occasion at our previous base... NOPE! They made me call D (who can't have his cell on him cause of the high security of his job and he doesn't have a desk phone since he just completed transition training since moving here from piloting a different aircraft) so I had to wait for him to get my text (since he knew about the time I was gonna be at the clinic... he luckily checked his phone!
Oh and even before the getting on base debacle... I was stopped by the police for speeding 10 mph over cause I was running late. I was an emotional mess at that point and lost *trying* to take a short cut D told me about! Oh how the tears flowed! I blame that on my hormones! Well... after explaining my situation and newness to the area, no speed sign visible since I just turned on that road (how the hell was I supposed to know the speed dropped from 45 to 35?!?) he took pity on me and let me slide.
So by the time I got to the clinic, after waiting for D to call the gat to let me on base... I was 30 minutes late for my appointment and missed it. Oooooh how the water works flowed as I was explaining my morning to the receptionist at the Women's Clinic desk. I swear I had no control over that! I was just so flustered because getting an appointment on base is SUCH a pain in the ass AND my work schedule is not flexible so getting a day off again this week would have been impossible! I am 5 weeks along at this point and new the paperwork for referrals takes a good 7-10 days to process and I just HAVE to get things rolling to get to even make a damn appointment with and OB/GYN.
They took care of me though and even though I missed me Pap follow-up appointment, I was able to get some blood drawn. So then I was told the nurse who sets up the off base referrals would be able to see me the same day and I would have to make an appoint for later in the week. The when I got home (45 minute drive off base mind you!) I call for my results... it's official... we're pregnant! I was then told I should come in ASAP to get the paper work done to be able to set up my 8 week 1st pre-natal appointment by next week considering how far along we are (thanks, no shit!). So after being told by one person I need to make arrangements later in the week, an hour later I am told by another that I should come back and be squeezed in because we need to start the paper work now. SOOOOOooo... another 45 minute drive later, got my PNV + stool softeners I needed , info on signing up for pregnancy/labor/parenting classes, free books and videos about the pregnancy and my paper work filled out to get my OB/GYN referral.
Thank F*ing God that I have no choice but to go off base for the pregnancy & birth... cause I would have turned into a raging hormonal bitch having to deal with the time consuming cluster fuck of a process dealing with going to the base for checkups!!! After the birth and going back to my PCM or a pediatric doc is another story. Having to be restricted to the base which has early closing times (government slackers!) and no weekend times SUCKS for working people! Plus it fucking 45 minutes out of our way in the middle of nowhere!
We were told when we first moved here, if you lived off base (since the base is in the middle of nowhere) we can easily signup to see a civilian doctor... then that changed out of nowhere last October and I didn't find out about that unstill I called last month to schedule my routine PAP. Did I mention I fucking hate the military healthcare process! I am going to dish out a hot slice of spousal ass chewing at the next commander's call meeting... for all that we already go through stress wise and husbands who are gone so much... the last thing we need is to have to go through a fucking obstacle course to get medical care! I am so heated and disgusted with the incompetence of this base and their slowness in correcting processes that fail in taking care of their people and their families. Don't even get me started on the off base housing allowance for the cost of living out here and the horrible state of housing one base! My husband is livid from the lack of organization of his squadron... and that disorganization and incompetence bleeds over the family support as well. It's disgusting!
Trying to focus on our blessing... at least we have a guaranteed job & have healthcare, a roof over our heads and food on the table... and thankfully able to get pregnant quickly despite the odds... we are healthy, financially stable and hopeful... trying to focus on that! Tomorrow is a new day and will be looking forward to the excitement of the days ahead.
Got out of bed at 7am and fixed breakfast with some yummy decaf latte. Then during my shower, I started getting queasy and had to sit for a few minutes. On my way out the door, I realized my military ID wasn't in my wallet (WTF?!?) and searched high and low for 15 minutes but then had to leave or I would miss my appointment. I figured I would just get a temporary pass with my driver’s license like had on occasion at our previous base... NOPE! They made me call D (who can't have his cell on him cause of the high security of his job and he doesn't have a desk phone since he just completed transition training since moving here from piloting a different aircraft) so I had to wait for him to get my text (since he knew about the time I was gonna be at the clinic... he luckily checked his phone!
Oh and even before the getting on base debacle... I was stopped by the police for speeding 10 mph over cause I was running late. I was an emotional mess at that point and lost *trying* to take a short cut D told me about! Oh how the tears flowed! I blame that on my hormones! Well... after explaining my situation and newness to the area, no speed sign visible since I just turned on that road (how the hell was I supposed to know the speed dropped from 45 to 35?!?) he took pity on me and let me slide.
So by the time I got to the clinic, after waiting for D to call the gat to let me on base... I was 30 minutes late for my appointment and missed it. Oooooh how the water works flowed as I was explaining my morning to the receptionist at the Women's Clinic desk. I swear I had no control over that! I was just so flustered because getting an appointment on base is SUCH a pain in the ass AND my work schedule is not flexible so getting a day off again this week would have been impossible! I am 5 weeks along at this point and new the paperwork for referrals takes a good 7-10 days to process and I just HAVE to get things rolling to get to even make a damn appointment with and OB/GYN.
They took care of me though and even though I missed me Pap follow-up appointment, I was able to get some blood drawn. So then I was told the nurse who sets up the off base referrals would be able to see me the same day and I would have to make an appoint for later in the week. The when I got home (45 minute drive off base mind you!) I call for my results... it's official... we're pregnant! I was then told I should come in ASAP to get the paper work done to be able to set up my 8 week 1st pre-natal appointment by next week considering how far along we are (thanks, no shit!). So after being told by one person I need to make arrangements later in the week, an hour later I am told by another that I should come back and be squeezed in because we need to start the paper work now. SOOOOOooo... another 45 minute drive later, got my PNV + stool softeners I needed , info on signing up for pregnancy/labor/parenting classes, free books and videos about the pregnancy and my paper work filled out to get my OB/GYN referral.
Thank F*ing God that I have no choice but to go off base for the pregnancy & birth... cause I would have turned into a raging hormonal bitch having to deal with the time consuming cluster fuck of a process dealing with going to the base for checkups!!! After the birth and going back to my PCM or a pediatric doc is another story. Having to be restricted to the base which has early closing times (government slackers!) and no weekend times SUCKS for working people! Plus it fucking 45 minutes out of our way in the middle of nowhere!
We were told when we first moved here, if you lived off base (since the base is in the middle of nowhere) we can easily signup to see a civilian doctor... then that changed out of nowhere last October and I didn't find out about that unstill I called last month to schedule my routine PAP. Did I mention I fucking hate the military healthcare process! I am going to dish out a hot slice of spousal ass chewing at the next commander's call meeting... for all that we already go through stress wise and husbands who are gone so much... the last thing we need is to have to go through a fucking obstacle course to get medical care! I am so heated and disgusted with the incompetence of this base and their slowness in correcting processes that fail in taking care of their people and their families. Don't even get me started on the off base housing allowance for the cost of living out here and the horrible state of housing one base! My husband is livid from the lack of organization of his squadron... and that disorganization and incompetence bleeds over the family support as well. It's disgusting!
Trying to focus on our blessing... at least we have a guaranteed job & have healthcare, a roof over our heads and food on the table... and thankfully able to get pregnant quickly despite the odds... we are healthy, financially stable and hopeful... trying to focus on that! Tomorrow is a new day and will be looking forward to the excitement of the days ahead.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
What a momentus day!
We both were able to get the day off to watch President Obama get sworn in AND we got our BFP today!!!
I am only 12 DPO and was going to wait until 14 DPO to test but had a feeling we were pregnant and what a wonderful memory filled day to confirm our new beginning! Didn't do anything creative to tell D just came running out of the bathroom asking if he was ready to be a daddy! He didn't quite believe the result of the 2nd line indicator even after explaining what the 2nd line meant (LOL!) until I took the digital 3 hours later... then he started doing his version of the happy dance.
I will follow up tomorrow with my symptoms including a bout of narcolepsy coming home from a few days ago. Here are the pics of today's tests. I have an appointment for blood work on Monday. SO EXCITED!!! I want so much to call my mom and spill the beans but we are waiting to tell family and friends after we are at 8 weeks.... its gonna be so hard for me to keep it hush hush!
Hold tight little one!!!
Sunday, January 11, 2009
2WW maybe?
Waiting for FF to confirm the temp shift but I think we have entered the 2ww phase. I think my O happened on CD 21-22 (1/7-1/8) and CM confirms that but after the first temp spike, my temps are lower than last cycle and slowly rising. It’s hard to compare cycles because of my varied waking schedule last month which had me waking 3 hours later than this cycle. My temp may be lower because of the early wake schedule due to my early work start time. Tried OPKs this cycle and I don't think I will continue with them if this cycle is a bust. I got "almost positives" 3-2 days before I think I O'ed but the test line was just barely lighter than the control line so was technically a negative result and doesn't really count. I may have just missed the full on surge and it is pricey to have to invest on testing more than once a day for the week around expected O date... so probably won't continue with them. (But hope I won't have to!)
So I am *trying* to not be so preoccupied with noting my possible symptoms. HA! Easier said than done! I am having the same dull achy campiness in my lower abs like last cycle. Also some mild pressure when trying to turn on my tummy last night. Also had some "ovulation pangs" while doing the nasty with D a couple days before my possible O. It felt like hubby's thang was curving around and gonna bust out my lower right side. It was tender on that side and a lot of pressure going on. I know one of the Bump gals got harped on for posting about feeling like her DH was poking her ovary so I was sure not to post my experience but I do think being very tender to pressure around O time is possible.
Work is good but tiring because of the early hours. I get home earlier which is a plus but I end up being so damn tired that nothing gets done around the house until the weekend. It suck and something has to change so I don’t spend my entire weaken cleaning!
So the waiting has began... and the over analyzing of each twinge and slight nausea LOL but I will just have fun with the crazy phase and find joy in my delusions hoping that I am proven to not be losing my mind in about 2 weeks!
With love and hope,
~ L
So I am *trying* to not be so preoccupied with noting my possible symptoms. HA! Easier said than done! I am having the same dull achy campiness in my lower abs like last cycle. Also some mild pressure when trying to turn on my tummy last night. Also had some "ovulation pangs" while doing the nasty with D a couple days before my possible O. It felt like hubby's thang was curving around and gonna bust out my lower right side. It was tender on that side and a lot of pressure going on. I know one of the Bump gals got harped on for posting about feeling like her DH was poking her ovary so I was sure not to post my experience but I do think being very tender to pressure around O time is possible.
Work is good but tiring because of the early hours. I get home earlier which is a plus but I end up being so damn tired that nothing gets done around the house until the weekend. It suck and something has to change so I don’t spend my entire weaken cleaning!
So the waiting has began... and the over analyzing of each twinge and slight nausea LOL but I will just have fun with the crazy phase and find joy in my delusions hoping that I am proven to not be losing my mind in about 2 weeks!
With love and hope,
~ L
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Happy New Year and new possibilities...
We stuffed our faces at the Cheesecake Factory (Mmmmm!) and rolled ourselves to the car. When we got home, we tried to stay up to watch the midnight calibrations but we fell asleep cuddling... a great way to start a new year! Woke up and went straight to Starbucks to begin the first day of 2009 on the right foot like I do every New Year :o)
No resolutions were made but we are looking forward to adding to our family and beginning this new phase of our marriage stronger and more united. It took some trials weathering some family drama, but we are stronger for it and I am so very grateful and feel a sense of relief in our unity. My anxiety thinking about future drama episode has been lifted knowing that D knows and feels resolute about protecting the emotional integrity of the family we are building by enforcing boundaries to keep out external strife and negativity. I love him for his patients and strength of character... I married such a wonderful and strong man... I am so very blessed.
2009... here we go!
No resolutions were made but we are looking forward to adding to our family and beginning this new phase of our marriage stronger and more united. It took some trials weathering some family drama, but we are stronger for it and I am so very grateful and feel a sense of relief in our unity. My anxiety thinking about future drama episode has been lifted knowing that D knows and feels resolute about protecting the emotional integrity of the family we are building by enforcing boundaries to keep out external strife and negativity. I love him for his patients and strength of character... I married such a wonderful and strong man... I am so very blessed.
2009... here we go!
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