I take back everything I ever said about the "Mean Doctor." She was the doctor who delivered Lulu. And she was fantastic. The entire time I was pushing, she was completely calm and incredibly encouraging. Hubby did all the counting (and apparently was loud enough to count for a woman down the hall too!), and one of the nurses held a foot and coached me through. But it was Dr. A who really got me through the experience.
And once Lulu popped out - and was blue - Dr. A's calm demeanor made everything seem ok. Even though I was sobbing and everything seemed so terrible. She calmly handed the baby to the NICU team, and set back to work on me. Talking to me the whole time, telling me how I was doing a great job and that everything would be ok.
I could never have gotten through the experience without her!!
Showing posts with label #1. Show all posts
Showing posts with label #1. Show all posts
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Our Birth Story
I wanted to write this down before I forgot too much. Wednesday evening, all of a sudden, my nose got incredibly runny. Far runnier than it had ever been the whole pregnancy. I jokingly said to Hubby that maybe my body was getting extra relaxed and ready for birth, since my nose was so ridiculous. I slept terribly (like 3 hours total in naps) Wednesday night and woke up even stuffier and very cranky Thursday morning.
I headed off to my weekly appointment feeling very tired, cranky, stuffy, and as though I'd be pregnant forever. The news at the appointment wasn't too encouraging either - I was still 1 cm, 50% effaced. No progress whatsoever, and the doctor brought up the dreaded "I" word - induction. I didn't cry on the way home, but was quietly resigned.
Thursday night, Hubby and I went to bed around 11:00. I couldn't sleep at all - the nose again. Around midnight, I felt a little leaky. I went to the bathroom, but it was nothing. On the other hand, it put me on guard. I did not really fall asleep again. At 2:04 (Hubby checked the clock when I started yelling!), my water broke. And oh did it break! I had several huge gushes before we could make it to the car. A few more in the car, one at the feet of the ER check-in, and it just continued. I was never so happy to put on a hospital gown in my life - it meant I could take off my sopping wet pants, socks, sneakers...
I started to notice contractions when we got to the hospital. In hindsight, I had been having little teensy ones all day Thursday (which I just thought were me just feeling crappy from the nose). Sadly, at my first check, I was STILL 1cm, 50% effaced - and -4 station. At some point, I asked for Stadol to help me get a little sleep, since I hadn't slept since Tuesday. The stadol really helped - I was totally out of it! Apparently I had some conversation with Hubby about Tony the Tiger (who I thought would be a GRRR-eat! Labor coach). I have no sense of time throughout this process, but at the next check, my contractions (though 2-4 minutes apart from the start) just weren't strong enough to move the baby down AT. ALL. They asked if I would accept some pitocin. I hedged a bit, but eventually we compromised with a much smaller dose than they would usually give. And I upheld my decision to go without the epidural. They thought I was nuts, but were VERY supportive of my decision.
The pitocin immediately made the contractions REALLY strong. I was shocked by the difference between those and my little wimpy ones before. Wow. I made it twelve hours from my water breaking without drugs. When they came in at that point and it had taken me 3 hours to go from 4 to 5 cm (still only 90% effaced, and still at -4 station), I completely lost it. I was sobbing and begged for an epidural, and still feel confident that I made the right decision.
This whole time, Hubby was the absolute BEST coach and husband I could ever have asked for. He was physically and emotionally supportive the entire time. When I finally asked for the epidural, he asked about 10 times "are you sure this is what you want? I want you to have the experience you hoped for." Even the nurses were commednable in this respect. They asked me once early on if I would want one, and never again. They did wince in sympathy through every contraction - and I can't imagine what the other women on the hall thought of my screaming. Even with all the movement and breathing techniques I had practiced, I just couldn't work through the contractions. The epidural was a welcome relief.
I had a fantastic anesthesiologist. He was there within 5 minutes of my request. He worked between contractions, was calm and supportive - and I had the perfect balance between numbness and feeling pressure. I knew when I was having a contraction - and whether it was a big one or not - but was comfortable and joking again.
My mom arrived from the Northeast just as they were finishing up the epidural. She arrived in time to see the last of my contraction tears, which were more tears of relief and thanks for the epidural at that point (although I did have three more before the drugs fully kicked in. Yowch!)
It still took a long time before I was ready to push. I pushed for 1 hour 20 minutes, and out popped Lulu (the best feeling in the whole world). I actually said as she flew out, "Oh my god, that feels great!" But my happiness at having her out was quickly brought to an end. She was completely blue and silent. NICU came flying in with a crash cart, and I was sobbing. I had absolutely no idea what was going on. Apparently, Lulu had fluid in her lungs, since my labor took so long. Her heart was really strong, but she couldn't breath. What a relief when I finally heard her tiny little wail. It was a pretty weak cry at first, but quickly got loud and strong. I was sobbing with relief, happiness, terror - every single emotion just running through me. They finally let me hold her after what felt like hours. It was probably 15 to 30 minutes or so.
Hubby was, again, wonderful through all of it. He stayed with the baby, but kept telling me what was going on. He asked constantly (once she was breathing) when she could be brought to me. He was definitely my advocate. Finally holding my precious little girl was an even better feeling than when she popped out.
Lulu is a big girl, at 7 pounds 12 ounces and 20 1/4 inches long. She has a TON of hair, and a dimple on each cheek. I might be biased, but I think she's the most beautiful girl on the world.
I know I'm missing things that I wanted to mention. The big things though, I feel that I did have a positive birth experience, even with the drama at the end. I was able to make decisions that were supported by the nurses and doctors. The only time I felt powerless was when NICU was hovering over my baby and I couldn't hold her. But it's not like I had a choice there! And really, a crying baby is a much better thing to hold than a blue one. So all in all, I was very happy with the care I received. And even though I didn't achieve an entirely "natural" childbirth, I was really proud of the 12 hours I did labor. I was proud of my pushing. I was proud of my ability to make the decision to get the epidural, even if it wasn't in my original "plan." Most of all, I am just overwhelmingly proud of my little girl.
I headed off to my weekly appointment feeling very tired, cranky, stuffy, and as though I'd be pregnant forever. The news at the appointment wasn't too encouraging either - I was still 1 cm, 50% effaced. No progress whatsoever, and the doctor brought up the dreaded "I" word - induction. I didn't cry on the way home, but was quietly resigned.
Thursday night, Hubby and I went to bed around 11:00. I couldn't sleep at all - the nose again. Around midnight, I felt a little leaky. I went to the bathroom, but it was nothing. On the other hand, it put me on guard. I did not really fall asleep again. At 2:04 (Hubby checked the clock when I started yelling!), my water broke. And oh did it break! I had several huge gushes before we could make it to the car. A few more in the car, one at the feet of the ER check-in, and it just continued. I was never so happy to put on a hospital gown in my life - it meant I could take off my sopping wet pants, socks, sneakers...
I started to notice contractions when we got to the hospital. In hindsight, I had been having little teensy ones all day Thursday (which I just thought were me just feeling crappy from the nose). Sadly, at my first check, I was STILL 1cm, 50% effaced - and -4 station. At some point, I asked for Stadol to help me get a little sleep, since I hadn't slept since Tuesday. The stadol really helped - I was totally out of it! Apparently I had some conversation with Hubby about Tony the Tiger (who I thought would be a GRRR-eat! Labor coach). I have no sense of time throughout this process, but at the next check, my contractions (though 2-4 minutes apart from the start) just weren't strong enough to move the baby down AT. ALL. They asked if I would accept some pitocin. I hedged a bit, but eventually we compromised with a much smaller dose than they would usually give. And I upheld my decision to go without the epidural. They thought I was nuts, but were VERY supportive of my decision.
The pitocin immediately made the contractions REALLY strong. I was shocked by the difference between those and my little wimpy ones before. Wow. I made it twelve hours from my water breaking without drugs. When they came in at that point and it had taken me 3 hours to go from 4 to 5 cm (still only 90% effaced, and still at -4 station), I completely lost it. I was sobbing and begged for an epidural, and still feel confident that I made the right decision.
This whole time, Hubby was the absolute BEST coach and husband I could ever have asked for. He was physically and emotionally supportive the entire time. When I finally asked for the epidural, he asked about 10 times "are you sure this is what you want? I want you to have the experience you hoped for." Even the nurses were commednable in this respect. They asked me once early on if I would want one, and never again. They did wince in sympathy through every contraction - and I can't imagine what the other women on the hall thought of my screaming. Even with all the movement and breathing techniques I had practiced, I just couldn't work through the contractions. The epidural was a welcome relief.
I had a fantastic anesthesiologist. He was there within 5 minutes of my request. He worked between contractions, was calm and supportive - and I had the perfect balance between numbness and feeling pressure. I knew when I was having a contraction - and whether it was a big one or not - but was comfortable and joking again.
My mom arrived from the Northeast just as they were finishing up the epidural. She arrived in time to see the last of my contraction tears, which were more tears of relief and thanks for the epidural at that point (although I did have three more before the drugs fully kicked in. Yowch!)
It still took a long time before I was ready to push. I pushed for 1 hour 20 minutes, and out popped Lulu (the best feeling in the whole world). I actually said as she flew out, "Oh my god, that feels great!" But my happiness at having her out was quickly brought to an end. She was completely blue and silent. NICU came flying in with a crash cart, and I was sobbing. I had absolutely no idea what was going on. Apparently, Lulu had fluid in her lungs, since my labor took so long. Her heart was really strong, but she couldn't breath. What a relief when I finally heard her tiny little wail. It was a pretty weak cry at first, but quickly got loud and strong. I was sobbing with relief, happiness, terror - every single emotion just running through me. They finally let me hold her after what felt like hours. It was probably 15 to 30 minutes or so.
Hubby was, again, wonderful through all of it. He stayed with the baby, but kept telling me what was going on. He asked constantly (once she was breathing) when she could be brought to me. He was definitely my advocate. Finally holding my precious little girl was an even better feeling than when she popped out.
Lulu is a big girl, at 7 pounds 12 ounces and 20 1/4 inches long. She has a TON of hair, and a dimple on each cheek. I might be biased, but I think she's the most beautiful girl on the world.
I know I'm missing things that I wanted to mention. The big things though, I feel that I did have a positive birth experience, even with the drama at the end. I was able to make decisions that were supported by the nurses and doctors. The only time I felt powerless was when NICU was hovering over my baby and I couldn't hold her. But it's not like I had a choice there! And really, a crying baby is a much better thing to hold than a blue one. So all in all, I was very happy with the care I received. And even though I didn't achieve an entirely "natural" childbirth, I was really proud of the 12 hours I did labor. I was proud of my pushing. I was proud of my ability to make the decision to get the epidural, even if it wasn't in my original "plan." Most of all, I am just overwhelmingly proud of my little girl.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
39 week update
We had our weekly appointment this morning. It went about the same as previous weeks. I am 50% effaced, which was happy music to my ears! But still only 1cm dilated. I know you have to fully efface before you can fully dilate, but I was still hoping for a little more action down there.
And then the doctor brought up the hated "I" word. If nothing has happened by my appointment on Friday (the 5th), they'll schedule my induction.
I don't wanna be induced!!!
I'm now pinning all my hopes on the full moon this weekend. Spicy food and sex be damned. I don't want either. C'mon full moon!
And then the doctor brought up the hated "I" word. If nothing has happened by my appointment on Friday (the 5th), they'll schedule my induction.
I don't wanna be induced!!!
I'm now pinning all my hopes on the full moon this weekend. Spicy food and sex be damned. I don't want either. C'mon full moon!
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Home
Hasn't been as boring as I'd feared! Granted, I'm actually at work this afternoon... but only because we had a going away party for a beloved staff member at lunch. Will commute for pizza!
I didn't do much on Monday. I guess the first day home alone you just kind of need to be a blob. I watched three movies (including Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure), napped, and went to yoga. Otherwise, my grand plans of knocking things off the to-do list went out the window.
Yesterday was different. I got up, took a shower, blow-dried my hair, put on non-sweatpant clothes, and got busy. First, I cleaned the bathroom. A loathsome tast. Next, I put together a grocery list. Then I vacuumed the car. That's right! We're ready for carseat installation! I went straight from vacuuming the car to the grocery store. I even brought my purse and shopping list with me when I started vacuuming so that I wouldn't go back in the house and find some excuse to not go.
After groceries, I threw on an apron and started cooking! I made dinner for last night, with enough leftover to freeze for a later date, AND I pre-cooked dinner for tonight. Stew is always better the second day, so it's in the fridge now ready to go back on the stove for dinner. Woohoo!
And like I said, I headed into work today. I got to sleep in, which was delightful. Took my time getting dressed. Watched a little daytime TV (it's terrible people.). And headed down to work. I got here just in time for lunch, and plan on staying till about 4. I'll have just enough time to finish up a few little things that I forgot to do last week!
So, only two more days left in my first week home. I might not be such a basket case by Friday night afterall. That said, Lulu is welcome to make her appearance ANY TIME NOW!!
I didn't do much on Monday. I guess the first day home alone you just kind of need to be a blob. I watched three movies (including Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure), napped, and went to yoga. Otherwise, my grand plans of knocking things off the to-do list went out the window.
Yesterday was different. I got up, took a shower, blow-dried my hair, put on non-sweatpant clothes, and got busy. First, I cleaned the bathroom. A loathsome tast. Next, I put together a grocery list. Then I vacuumed the car. That's right! We're ready for carseat installation! I went straight from vacuuming the car to the grocery store. I even brought my purse and shopping list with me when I started vacuuming so that I wouldn't go back in the house and find some excuse to not go.
After groceries, I threw on an apron and started cooking! I made dinner for last night, with enough leftover to freeze for a later date, AND I pre-cooked dinner for tonight. Stew is always better the second day, so it's in the fridge now ready to go back on the stove for dinner. Woohoo!
And like I said, I headed into work today. I got to sleep in, which was delightful. Took my time getting dressed. Watched a little daytime TV (it's terrible people.). And headed down to work. I got here just in time for lunch, and plan on staying till about 4. I'll have just enough time to finish up a few little things that I forgot to do last week!
So, only two more days left in my first week home. I might not be such a basket case by Friday night afterall. That said, Lulu is welcome to make her appearance ANY TIME NOW!!
Monday, January 25, 2010
39 Weeks, 1 Day
More pictures this week! If you were hoping to see a drop, sorry to disappoint you! We're still round and riding high...
Total weight gain/loss: +40-ish
Total weight gain/loss: +40-ish
Maternity clothes? I'm in sweats everyday now!
Sleep: Not great.
Best moment last week: A tie between my last day of work, and Taco Bell for lunch on my last day of work.
Movement: Constant.
Food cravings: Dairy, still.
Movement: Constant.
Food cravings: Dairy, still.
Gender: GIRL!!!
Labor signs: Nada.
Labor signs: Nada.
Belly button? Out, but still oddly shaped.
What I'm looking forward to this week: Lazing around in my undies, running last minute errands, sleeping in...
What I miss: Restful sleep and not eating spicy food with every meal. I hate spicy. The things we do for our children!
Weekly wisdom: It's ok to be emotional, but do remember to take a deep breath before getting hysterical.
Milestones: Finished with work!
What I'm looking forward to this week: Lazing around in my undies, running last minute errands, sleeping in...
What I miss: Restful sleep and not eating spicy food with every meal. I hate spicy. The things we do for our children!
Weekly wisdom: It's ok to be emotional, but do remember to take a deep breath before getting hysterical.
Milestones: Finished with work!
Friday, January 22, 2010
Last Day
It's my last day of work...
before becoming a mom.
before becoming a working mom.
I'm so full of mixed emotions, I can hardly breath. On the one hand, I'm really excited for some time not working. On the other hand, I'm terrified of how bored I'll be in the (possibly) weeks before Lulu arrives.
And I'm certainly terrified of actually having an infant at home.
And I'm even more terrified of going back to work in April. Of having to leave my little girl at a daycare. Of missing her smiles, coos and achievements during the day. And what if I don't want to go back to work? What if I can't stand being at home all day and really want to go back?!
I'm not sure what's worse... missing my baby all day, or feeling relieved to get away.
I hate uncertainties.
before becoming a mom.
before becoming a working mom.
I'm so full of mixed emotions, I can hardly breath. On the one hand, I'm really excited for some time not working. On the other hand, I'm terrified of how bored I'll be in the (possibly) weeks before Lulu arrives.
And I'm certainly terrified of actually having an infant at home.
And I'm even more terrified of going back to work in April. Of having to leave my little girl at a daycare. Of missing her smiles, coos and achievements during the day. And what if I don't want to go back to work? What if I can't stand being at home all day and really want to go back?!
I'm not sure what's worse... missing my baby all day, or feeling relieved to get away.
I hate uncertainties.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
I'm so discouraged
Another check-up.
More confirmation on continued weight gain.
No progress - still just barely 1cm, and wayyyyyy up there.
Just about promised to be a week late.
Last day of work tomorrow.
Anticipating two weeks at home, lonely and bored.
I left the doctor's office. Sat in my car. And cried.
More confirmation on continued weight gain.
No progress - still just barely 1cm, and wayyyyyy up there.
Just about promised to be a week late.
Last day of work tomorrow.
Anticipating two weeks at home, lonely and bored.
I left the doctor's office. Sat in my car. And cried.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Least Favorite Chore
So last night I cleaned the drain traps in the kitchen sink. I hate doing this. They get so yucky!! I even buy replacement traps at least twice a year. I don't feel as though they're very sanitary... Maybe we don't clean ours often enough? But whatever. I did it yesterday.
After I cleaned the microwave and vacuumed crumbs out of the stovetop.
After I cleaned the microwave and vacuumed crumbs out of the stovetop.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Is this the "Nesting" people keep talking about?
So here's my question:
Do you have to want to clean to be nesting? Or can you be nesting if you find yourself dusting the walls, even though you don't feel like cleaning at all?
I hate cleaning! With a passion. And my house looks it. But I was seriously just dusting a wall. It really has been dusty, and it's been bothering me. But seriously? I dusted a wall.
I feel as though my nesting energy would be better spent cleaning the bathroom or kitchen or something. Geesh!
Do you have to want to clean to be nesting? Or can you be nesting if you find yourself dusting the walls, even though you don't feel like cleaning at all?
I hate cleaning! With a passion. And my house looks it. But I was seriously just dusting a wall. It really has been dusty, and it's been bothering me. But seriously? I dusted a wall.
I feel as though my nesting energy would be better spent cleaning the bathroom or kitchen or something. Geesh!
Sunday, January 17, 2010
38 Weeks!
As promised, here are some highly attractive pictures of my tummy! I added the last picture I posted (from around 30 weeks) for comparison.
Isn't that just the most beautiful tummy ever? Oh yeah. Gorgeous. Anyway, here's the weekly update:
Isn't that just the most beautiful tummy ever? Oh yeah. Gorgeous. Anyway, here's the weekly update:Total weight gain/loss: +38
Maternity clothes? I wish I could wear my velour sweatsuit everyday.
Sleep: Not great. The weird up-for-three-hours thing hasn't repeated, but I'm just not sleeping well. I feel out of breath, even when lying on my side.
Best moment this week: My fourth (and last?!) baby shower! It was lovely, and I feel very loved and special.
Movement: Constant.
Food cravings: Dairy, still. I did invest in some Lactaid, and that seems to be helping.
Gender: GIRL!!!
Labor signs: As of Friday, I was still closed, but softer and starting to thin. I had a contraction scare around Wednesday or Thursday, but it wound up being gas... The scrunching pressure I felt in the shower today might be a little more real though!
Belly button? Out, but still oddly shaped.
What I'm looking forward to this week: Friday is my last day of work!! (Well, until April)
What I miss: Restful sleep.
Weekly wisdom: Oh I don't know!
Milestones: Two weeks away, one more week of work, starting to get things finished up around the house. Still haven't felt that nesting urge yet...
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Hooray!
I'd like to start this post with a big CONGRATULATIONS!!! To Jessica at The Southern Belle Baby. I hear that her beautiful little boy, Knox, arrived this morning. (Thanks to Neck Rolls & Toe Crust for the update!!). I've said all along that Knox would be here before Lulu, and I was right! Lulu is comfy and perfectly happy to stay on the inside for a while longer.
With that, I'd like to give a BIG thanks to my in-laws for throwing me a truly lovely shower this afternoon! At one point, I was slightly concerned that they'd have to have the shower without me, since it was so close to my due date. But since Lulu's obviously not concerned with progressing through the birth canal quite yet, I was happily able to attend.
Hubby's parents, whom I have long known to be incredibly generous and thoughtful, got us both the pack'n'play AND a rocking chair!!! I can't begin to describe how excited I am for these additions to our house. I had been really concerned about a rocking chair - I knew I wanted one, but the Babies R Us near me sucks, and did not have any gliders/chairs for me to try out. I hadn't registered for one, and hadn't come close to finding one I like. My in-laws tried out several chairs on my behalf, and found one that is amazingly comfy!! I sat in it during the whole shower, and haven't been so comfy in weeks.
So whenever you're ready, Lulu. Anytime now.
With that, I'd like to give a BIG thanks to my in-laws for throwing me a truly lovely shower this afternoon! At one point, I was slightly concerned that they'd have to have the shower without me, since it was so close to my due date. But since Lulu's obviously not concerned with progressing through the birth canal quite yet, I was happily able to attend.
Hubby's parents, whom I have long known to be incredibly generous and thoughtful, got us both the pack'n'play AND a rocking chair!!! I can't begin to describe how excited I am for these additions to our house. I had been really concerned about a rocking chair - I knew I wanted one, but the Babies R Us near me sucks, and did not have any gliders/chairs for me to try out. I hadn't registered for one, and hadn't come close to finding one I like. My in-laws tried out several chairs on my behalf, and found one that is amazingly comfy!! I sat in it during the whole shower, and haven't been so comfy in weeks.
So whenever you're ready, Lulu. Anytime now.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Progress: The Continued Saga
I had another appointment this morning. Just a check up, nothing more. For the last few days, my panty liners have been getting really damp. Not the gooey stuff that I've been used to, a clear, watery dampness. Obviously, I was concerned that I was leaking amniotic fluid. After a quick ultrasound, it's quite clear that Lulu is happily floating in a normal amount of fluid.
And then came the internal. Four weeks ago, I was long, closed and tight. Last week, I was long, closed, but slightly softer. This week, I am very closed, but softer and just starting to thin.
So I guess we've had some progress? But nothing to write home about. We're in it for the long haul!
And then came the internal. Four weeks ago, I was long, closed and tight. Last week, I was long, closed, but slightly softer. This week, I am very closed, but softer and just starting to thin.
So I guess we've had some progress? But nothing to write home about. We're in it for the long haul!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
I HATE MILK
I think milk is the yuckiest thing ever. I do love other dairy products - give me ice cream anytime! But milk on its own is the worst. And I have to drink it. Here's why:
1) Lulu apparently adores milk. Whenever we get hungry, my first thought is milkshake, ice cream, or (highly creamed & sugared) Dunkin Donuts (decaf) hazelnut coffee. I guess I am calcium deficient?
2) Milk is good for you, blah blah blah. It makes Hubby happy to see me with milk in hand.
3) Milk helps (a lot) with the reflux. I've suffered from reflux for years - since freshman year of college. And as bad as it's been for me, it's never been this bad! So I swallow my Zantac150 with a glass of milk before bed.
Here are the downsides to all this dairy ingestion:
1) I'm lactose intolerant. Which might explain why I've hated milk since forever. The bloating that goes along with the dairy is just so uncomfortable. And not a help with the reflux.
2) I'm drinking lactose-free milk. Which tastes even worse than regular milk. I seriously have to choke it down!
3) Lactose-free milk is expensive and now we have more milk than a dairyfarm in our fridge. I hope it doesn't start to turn... because I can't even begin to imagine how disgusting lactose-free milk will taste after it's a few days old.
YUCK!!!!
1) Lulu apparently adores milk. Whenever we get hungry, my first thought is milkshake, ice cream, or (highly creamed & sugared) Dunkin Donuts (decaf) hazelnut coffee. I guess I am calcium deficient?
2) Milk is good for you, blah blah blah. It makes Hubby happy to see me with milk in hand.
3) Milk helps (a lot) with the reflux. I've suffered from reflux for years - since freshman year of college. And as bad as it's been for me, it's never been this bad! So I swallow my Zantac150 with a glass of milk before bed.
Here are the downsides to all this dairy ingestion:
1) I'm lactose intolerant. Which might explain why I've hated milk since forever. The bloating that goes along with the dairy is just so uncomfortable. And not a help with the reflux.
2) I'm drinking lactose-free milk. Which tastes even worse than regular milk. I seriously have to choke it down!
3) Lactose-free milk is expensive and now we have more milk than a dairyfarm in our fridge. I hope it doesn't start to turn... because I can't even begin to imagine how disgusting lactose-free milk will taste after it's a few days old.
YUCK!!!!
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Pumpkins
I was thinking to myself last night, "Only 7 more days of work till I turn into a pumpkin!" And then I looked down at my swollen feet and enormous tummy and realized I already am a pumpkin.
I'm excited to be so close to the end. I can't wait to meet my little girl. And... I can't wait for the swelling in my ankles and hands to go down. Maybe I shouldn't complain too much; I made it 37 weeks and 1 day before I had to give up on the wedding rings and wear them as a necklace instead. That's pretty good, right?
And in other news - 7 more days of work! I have almost everything wrapped up. The few things I might work on from home are packed and ready to come home with me tonight. I just need to scrub down my desk (you should see the dust bunnies!), and then I'll feel ready to leave my happy cubicle for 12 weeks.
12 weeks! I know it won't be any vacation. But seriously, 12 weeks just for me to spend time with my little family! I really am a lucky girl.
I'm excited to be so close to the end. I can't wait to meet my little girl. And... I can't wait for the swelling in my ankles and hands to go down. Maybe I shouldn't complain too much; I made it 37 weeks and 1 day before I had to give up on the wedding rings and wear them as a necklace instead. That's pretty good, right?
And in other news - 7 more days of work! I have almost everything wrapped up. The few things I might work on from home are packed and ready to come home with me tonight. I just need to scrub down my desk (you should see the dust bunnies!), and then I'll feel ready to leave my happy cubicle for 12 weeks.
12 weeks! I know it won't be any vacation. But seriously, 12 weeks just for me to spend time with my little family! I really am a lucky girl.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Success!
I slept through the night!!!
After two nights in a row of 3 hours of sleep (or less), I finally got in a good nights' rest! I went to bed at 11, and did wake up at 1, but that was to pee. Totally normal. While I was up, I had a snack (granola bar), figuring I wasn't hungry yet, but I probably would be soon.
It worked! I didn't wake up again until the alarm went off at 6:00!
After two nights in a row of 3 hours of sleep (or less), I finally got in a good nights' rest! I went to bed at 11, and did wake up at 1, but that was to pee. Totally normal. While I was up, I had a snack (granola bar), figuring I wasn't hungry yet, but I probably would be soon.
It worked! I didn't wake up again until the alarm went off at 6:00!
Monday, January 11, 2010
37 Weeks! FULL TERM!!!
Total weight gain/loss: +35 as of Friday. I'm fine with that. It's ALL in my tummy, so I'm hoping a big baby takes most of it away!
Maternity clothes? I wish I could wear my velour sweatsuit everyday.
Sleep: It was great. Till Saturday night. Lulu got hungry around 3am, and kicked me awake. I ignored it for a while (staring at the ceiling, willing myself back to sleep) until about 3:45. Then I went downstairs for a snack. And was still awake at 4:45. And this happened again last night. Even after I had a pre-bed snack, and planted snacks next to the bed. It wasn't enough. I wound up crying for a good 15 minutes while Hubby tried to calm me down. I'm not a happy camper this morning.
Best moment this week: I finished the one thing I needed to finish before Lulu arrives. It's a huge relief!
Movement: Constant. And very evil at 3am.
Food cravings: Not much... my appetite has disappeared. The few things I do want are dairy-based. And I'm lactose intolerant. The extreme bloating could explain the missing appetite...
Gender: GIRL!!!
Labor signs: As of Friday, I was still closed and long, but starting to soften. I had a LOT of BH contractions on Saturday, which were getting pretty uncomfortable. Still no "real" ones, but I'm starting to get an idea of what those will be like.
Belly button? Out, but still oddly shaped.
What I miss: Sleeping through the night. Without the karate kid beating me up for a snack.
Weekly wisdom: Yes, there will come a day when you are just done with being pregnant. (hold true from last week)
Milestones: Full term baby!!! Woohoo! Lulu, you may debut anytime now. Any. Time.
Maternity clothes? I wish I could wear my velour sweatsuit everyday.
Sleep: It was great. Till Saturday night. Lulu got hungry around 3am, and kicked me awake. I ignored it for a while (staring at the ceiling, willing myself back to sleep) until about 3:45. Then I went downstairs for a snack. And was still awake at 4:45. And this happened again last night. Even after I had a pre-bed snack, and planted snacks next to the bed. It wasn't enough. I wound up crying for a good 15 minutes while Hubby tried to calm me down. I'm not a happy camper this morning.
Best moment this week: I finished the one thing I needed to finish before Lulu arrives. It's a huge relief!
Movement: Constant. And very evil at 3am.
Food cravings: Not much... my appetite has disappeared. The few things I do want are dairy-based. And I'm lactose intolerant. The extreme bloating could explain the missing appetite...
Gender: GIRL!!!
Labor signs: As of Friday, I was still closed and long, but starting to soften. I had a LOT of BH contractions on Saturday, which were getting pretty uncomfortable. Still no "real" ones, but I'm starting to get an idea of what those will be like.
Belly button? Out, but still oddly shaped.
What I miss: Sleeping through the night. Without the karate kid beating me up for a snack.
Weekly wisdom: Yes, there will come a day when you are just done with being pregnant. (hold true from last week)
Milestones: Full term baby!!! Woohoo! Lulu, you may debut anytime now. Any. Time.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
A goal no more
If you'll look to the right --->
You will notice that I added a goal/to-do list. And number one on that list just hit panic mode.
I've had an email from the professor. She needs the paper TODAY. I was going to work on it all day yesterday. But then our friends needed an emergency babysitter. Hubby was out of town, so it was just me, Girly and Baby Jay.
As adorable as the baby is, he would not let me put him down. I got nothing accomplished on the paper until his parents could pick him up at 10:00 last night.
I worked my butt off from 10:00 till 1:00. At that point, my back hurt so much from holding a 4 month old that I couldn't sit at the computer anymore. So I crawled into bed, only to see 3:00 am far to soon. Lulu was hungry, and wasn't going to let me brush her off for sleep. I finally gave in around 4:15 and grabbed a snack downstairs. I swear, some of her kicks were so hard, I actually did worry I was going into labor. (I still don't know: Can you feel them kick during a contraction??) And I even did have at least one closer to real contraction. Blame it on the fatigue and stress.
So here it is, 8:30 am, and I'm sitting back at the computer with a tired back and left arm, attempting to write 9 more pages, format a bibliography, and add citations by this afternoon.
Here are the two silver linings to this situation:
1) I got some great practice with an infant. And OMG they really are needy. Eye opener for sure.
2) Once this paper is handed, Lulu can come whenever she wants. Yes, I have those other goals. But those ones truly are goals! I don't have a grade riding on anything else!
You will notice that I added a goal/to-do list. And number one on that list just hit panic mode.
I've had an email from the professor. She needs the paper TODAY. I was going to work on it all day yesterday. But then our friends needed an emergency babysitter. Hubby was out of town, so it was just me, Girly and Baby Jay.
As adorable as the baby is, he would not let me put him down. I got nothing accomplished on the paper until his parents could pick him up at 10:00 last night.
I worked my butt off from 10:00 till 1:00. At that point, my back hurt so much from holding a 4 month old that I couldn't sit at the computer anymore. So I crawled into bed, only to see 3:00 am far to soon. Lulu was hungry, and wasn't going to let me brush her off for sleep. I finally gave in around 4:15 and grabbed a snack downstairs. I swear, some of her kicks were so hard, I actually did worry I was going into labor. (I still don't know: Can you feel them kick during a contraction??) And I even did have at least one closer to real contraction. Blame it on the fatigue and stress.
So here it is, 8:30 am, and I'm sitting back at the computer with a tired back and left arm, attempting to write 9 more pages, format a bibliography, and add citations by this afternoon.
Here are the two silver linings to this situation:
1) I got some great practice with an infant. And OMG they really are needy. Eye opener for sure.
2) Once this paper is handed, Lulu can come whenever she wants. Yes, I have those other goals. But those ones truly are goals! I don't have a grade riding on anything else!
Friday, January 8, 2010
Progress?
That would be none. I had my appointment this morning, eagerly anticipating the internal exam to see if anything had happened.
Still long. Still closed ("I could probably stick a finger in there, but I don't think it would be very comfortable" says the doctor as my face is already screwed up in discomfort...). A little softening, but I don't even know what that means!
Guess we're stepping up the regimen of spicy food and sex this weekend!
Still long. Still closed ("I could probably stick a finger in there, but I don't think it would be very comfortable" says the doctor as my face is already screwed up in discomfort...). A little softening, but I don't even know what that means!
Guess we're stepping up the regimen of spicy food and sex this weekend!
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Nesting
No, I have not started cleaning my house like some sort of deranged germaphobe neat-freak (no offense to anyone!). I mean, I've been trying to be tidier. I've had spurts where I've gone nutty over bleaching the kitchen. And my cubicle at work is neat as a pin. But I have not yet experienced that pregnant phenomenon known as "nesting."
I have experienced nesting of a different sort. That of actually creating a little nest for myself in bed each night. I can truly tell you how it feels to be Big Bird, all cuddled in for the night in his nest on Sesame Street. Every night I build a little nest of my own.
I start with my "special" pillow on top of a regular pillow for my head. I got my special pillow when I was little. Call me crazy for sleeping with a decades old feather pillow, but it's just right for me. This makes a nice little cloud for my head.
Next, I shove a big, fat, puffy pillow under the covers. This one goes in between my knees. I'm really not sure how I slept without it before I was pregnant! It might just be a permanent fixture in my bed...
I add a small bolster, courtesy of the guest bed. This one lines up parallel with my back as I start off the night on my left side. It makes a great support in case I try to roll onto my back. It also just makes me feel all snug and secure. The bolster serves another purpose as it makes up for the serious sag toward the middle of the bed!
The final pillow is a brand new feather pillow (given by Hubby with thoughts of replacing the special one. He doesn't get it), which is very plush and poofy. This pillow is the coup de grace of my little nest. I hug this pillow tight into my body, with just a little tucked under my tummy for support. And sometimes around my boobs to support them too. This big, puffy pillow makes me feel completely snugged in for the night.
I have always heard that it's impossible to sleep during the last trimester. Maybe I'm jinxing myself by saying this, but I have not found this to be the case. With my little nest of pillows, I am sleeping better than ever before. Which is great, because I hear I'll need all the rest I can get pretty soon!
I have experienced nesting of a different sort. That of actually creating a little nest for myself in bed each night. I can truly tell you how it feels to be Big Bird, all cuddled in for the night in his nest on Sesame Street. Every night I build a little nest of my own.
I start with my "special" pillow on top of a regular pillow for my head. I got my special pillow when I was little. Call me crazy for sleeping with a decades old feather pillow, but it's just right for me. This makes a nice little cloud for my head.
Next, I shove a big, fat, puffy pillow under the covers. This one goes in between my knees. I'm really not sure how I slept without it before I was pregnant! It might just be a permanent fixture in my bed...
I add a small bolster, courtesy of the guest bed. This one lines up parallel with my back as I start off the night on my left side. It makes a great support in case I try to roll onto my back. It also just makes me feel all snug and secure. The bolster serves another purpose as it makes up for the serious sag toward the middle of the bed!
The final pillow is a brand new feather pillow (given by Hubby with thoughts of replacing the special one. He doesn't get it), which is very plush and poofy. This pillow is the coup de grace of my little nest. I hug this pillow tight into my body, with just a little tucked under my tummy for support. And sometimes around my boobs to support them too. This big, puffy pillow makes me feel completely snugged in for the night.
I have always heard that it's impossible to sleep during the last trimester. Maybe I'm jinxing myself by saying this, but I have not found this to be the case. With my little nest of pillows, I am sleeping better than ever before. Which is great, because I hear I'll need all the rest I can get pretty soon!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
