Everyone seems to have an opinion on this particular subject--usually at one end of the spectrum or the other. Recently, I had the great pleasure of reading a very hilarious rant about this very thing. The rant came to be after a friend witnessed a fellow church-goer breastfeeding her 2-year-old during the service, right in the church pew. This friend posted a Facebook status about the appropriateness of breastfeeding in church. The thread very quickly became a debate about the legality of breastfeeding in public...and the fur started flying. Of course, I have an opinion about this.
First of all, I would like to point out that most people realize that breastfeeding is the best thing for babies. They haven't chosen not to breast feed because they are unaware of the benefits. Whatever the reason they opted for formula, it was an important reason to them. Pointing out that breast milk can lessen allergies and strengthen the immune system probably isn't going to change their mind--the same way that telling me how "gross" you think breastfeeding is, isn't going to convince me to stop.
As much as I support breastfeeding, I am no crusader for the cause. Just because I do it, doesn't mean that I am running for president of La Leche League. I am aware that it is legal to breastfeed my daughter anywhere that I am permitted to have her. I have nursed my daughter in public. I always choose to (attempt to) cover myself. My daughter is currently 3 months old. I can guarantee you I will not be breastfeeding her in public--covered or uncovered--when she is 2 years old. I have many reasons for this--reason #1 being that I intend to wean her before that point. Yes, I know the AAP and the WHO recommend breastfeeding until 2...they recommend it if it is mutually desirable, and I do not desire to breastfeed that long.
Breastfeeding is hard work. Seriously. Sore nipples are no joke--and my kid doesn't even have teeth yet. Breastfeeding and working? I should get an effing award for this. Pumping sucks. It doesn't allow my supply to respond to Macy's demand. It's not as effective at maintaining my supply as nursing. I never realized how much bonding I was going to do with my pump instead of my baby. Sometimes I think she prefers a bottle to a breast, but I won't get started down that road or I risk having a crying spell over being such a terrible mother. It's hard, people.
If, by some long-shot chance, my daughter is not weaned by the time she is 2, I will still not choose to nurse her in public. By that age, there are other ways to meet her nutritional needs. Solid foods are introduced by 6 months at the latest, and many babies are weaned around one year of age. After that point, I really do feel that it becomes inappropriate to breastfeed in public. If you want to keep doing it, do it at home. Maybe it is a great bonding experience for you and your baby--there are other ways to bond though. And there are most definitely other ways to feed your child. I think too many people try to stand up to The Man by exercising their right to whip out their boobies in public--which I will never understand. I have stretch marks... on my boobies. And they will never be perky again. I'm not interested in showing them to any looky-loo who happens to be in my vicinity just because it is legal for me to do so...despite my love of stickin' it to The Man.
I guess what I'm getting at is, just because you can do it, doesn't mean you should....legal does not equal appropriate. Now someone help me down from this soap box!
Showing posts with label Baby. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Baby. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
The Truth about Mommyhood.
I don't even know how I got here. I have no idea when I became this person. Allow me to elaborate.
- I was once a party animal. I drank beer, cranked tunes, threw darts. But now? My idea of an awesome Friday night? Putting my kid in bed at 8pm, and then drinking a single beer while I watch DVR'd television...or read Mommy blogs.
- I am in a perpetual state of looking for something. A burp cloth. My phone. The soda I swear I just opened, but apparently already finished drinking (just happened). Also, after 10 weeks of feeding my child multiple times a day, I cannot remember to bring all of the things I need for a feeding to the couch before I sit down...and there aren't that many things: Baby, Boppy, burp cloth, Mommy. TV remote is a bonus, but it is usually already there.
- EVERYTHING I OWN has puke on it...somewhere...everything...including the dog.
- Speaking of the dog...I love him, really, I do. But he is always ALWAYS RIGHT.UNDER.MY.MURTHURFURKING.FEET. When I step on him? When I nearly break my neck after tripping over him? He yelps and looks at me like a sad panda. MOVE, DOG!!
- I take pictures and videos of my kid doing the same thing over and over. Because everything she does is unbelievably cute--even after she has done it 50 times. Smiling is a prime example. She smiles all the time now. I feel bad each and every time I am unable to immortalize her little toothless, grinning face on my SD card, because every time it is just.so.cute. Also, she has conversations with the bears on her mobile. I could stand and watch for hours because, again, SO.CUTE.
- I don't buy clothes for myself. I will, however, spend $45 on a gown that Macy has worn once. See below.
OMG SOOOO CUTE!!
I drive a Mom car. I read Mommy blogs. AAaaaaand I hope you weren't planning on having an intelligent conversation with me...unless it is about the Most Beautiful Baby EVER Born, or perhaps maybe childbirth, the cost of diapers, or possibly the Navy. I can only speak on those limited subjects, because I am so consumed by The Blur.
...and de-puking all of my belongings.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Bragging
Ii has been difficult to find time to blog over the last 5 weeks. It has been difficult to find time to do lots of things--laundry, sleep, shave my legs, relax, eat. I spend most of my day trying to keep my 5-week-old awake, lest she stay up until midnight every night. It's been frustrating. And lonely. VERY lonely.
I can't believe it has already been 5 weeks since Macy was born. She's such a good baby. She rarely cries, and she lets me sleep in until 9:00 most mornings. She isn't sleeping through the night yet, but she is finally adjusting to being on a schedule. She is such a happy baby. I look at her, and I can't believe how beautiful she is, or how much I love her. I also can't believe I made her. She is amazing.
Other than entertaining an infant all day, I have also been working on this:
Yes, friends, that is all breast milk. This picture doesn't do justice to the amount of breast milk I have in my freezer right now. This is where I really start bragging. Please bear in mind that I spend a lot of time on the verge of tears because of my current life situation. Being a single parent to a newborn is hard. I'm the breadwinner, and the house wife, but there is no husband to come home from work at the end of the day. Thus, I have to find happiness somewhere. So, as you all read this and become irritated, pissed off, or jealous, please keep in mind what I have gone through in order to achieve this lifetime goal: I can eat whatever I want and still lose 2 pounds a week. I'm not even kidding. Macy is 5 weeks old, and I have already lost 30 pounds since she was born. I'm serious about this being a lifetime goal. At one time, I was that girl who eats whatever she wants and stays thin...but it was when I was 12. I've struggled with weight most of my adult life. My new metabolism makes all of this shit seem a little bit more worth it. Obviously, Macy makes it worth it too, but you know what I mean.
Oh, I am also currently wearing a size 40D bra...some would think I should be excited, but I could really do without these gigantic jugs. Even after I drop the last 10 pounds of baby weight, I won't be able to wear my regular shirts again--my hooters are too big.
Am I the only one who appreciates the irony that my gigantic jugs are both helping me lose weight AND preventing me from wearing smaller clothes?
I can't believe it has already been 5 weeks since Macy was born. She's such a good baby. She rarely cries, and she lets me sleep in until 9:00 most mornings. She isn't sleeping through the night yet, but she is finally adjusting to being on a schedule. She is such a happy baby. I look at her, and I can't believe how beautiful she is, or how much I love her. I also can't believe I made her. She is amazing.
Other than entertaining an infant all day, I have also been working on this:
Yes, friends, that is all breast milk. This picture doesn't do justice to the amount of breast milk I have in my freezer right now. This is where I really start bragging. Please bear in mind that I spend a lot of time on the verge of tears because of my current life situation. Being a single parent to a newborn is hard. I'm the breadwinner, and the house wife, but there is no husband to come home from work at the end of the day. Thus, I have to find happiness somewhere. So, as you all read this and become irritated, pissed off, or jealous, please keep in mind what I have gone through in order to achieve this lifetime goal: I can eat whatever I want and still lose 2 pounds a week. I'm not even kidding. Macy is 5 weeks old, and I have already lost 30 pounds since she was born. I'm serious about this being a lifetime goal. At one time, I was that girl who eats whatever she wants and stays thin...but it was when I was 12. I've struggled with weight most of my adult life. My new metabolism makes all of this shit seem a little bit more worth it. Obviously, Macy makes it worth it too, but you know what I mean.
Oh, I am also currently wearing a size 40D bra...some would think I should be excited, but I could really do without these gigantic jugs. Even after I drop the last 10 pounds of baby weight, I won't be able to wear my regular shirts again--my hooters are too big.
Am I the only one who appreciates the irony that my gigantic jugs are both helping me lose weight AND preventing me from wearing smaller clothes?
Friday, June 24, 2011
A Baby Story
DISCLAIMER: If you have no desire to read about my cervix, dilating, or amniotic fluid, you might want to skip this one.
Hello, Dear Internets. I apologize for the long hiatus. Apparently, babies are a lot of work!! I know I had mentioned doing a 38 Weeks post, but I decided just to share the good part--the belly pic. That's what you all want anyway, right? This was taken at my baby shower--2 days before Macy was born. Check out my sweet cankles!!
The rest of that post would have read something along the lines of "Ankles...really swollen...pee 30 times a day...glad I made it to my own shower."
You see, 5 days prior, I had my first visit to my OB's office. At this visit, I was informed that I was already dilated to 2 cm, and would NOT be making it to my due date, or even to June. When I commented that I only needed to make it to the 28th--the day of my baby shower--I was told I had a 50/50 chance. Thankfully, Macy cooperated. My shower was amazing, and I would like to thank all of Macy's wonderful Illinois Aunties for doing such an awesome job. Here is a picture of all of us:
The day after my shower, I was supposed to go to the lake with the fam. My brother was in town visiting from Springfield, and we were supposed to have a nice day sweating in the sun on the boat. I woke up that day feeling like crap. I was also pretty sure I was leaking amniotic fluid, which meant I definitely shouldn't be getting into any lakes. I decided to stay home and nest all day instead. It was a good thing too, because that day was the most uncomfortable day of my entire life. I was feeling an incredible amount of pressure in my abdomen, and a lot of pain too. I was sweating like a pig, and I couldn't get comfortable.
That evening, I started having contractions. If you've never had a kid, please don't believe anything you see on TV. Contractions are not a sudden, stabbing, debilitating pain that blind sides you out of nowhere. They feel very much like cramps, and they start out mild and intensify over time. If you have back labor, which I did, they feel like a lower back ache. Many people think back labor is very painful. I have always had back problems, so I actually didn't think back labor was that bad. I was relieved that I had started having contractions--that meant the end of my pregnancy was near. I slept as much as I could that night. The contractions really weren't that bad. They were uncomfortable, but I managed to sleep through them for a little while. By 6:00 the next morning, they were finally 3-5 minutes apart and consistent--time to head to the hospital!! By that point, I was ready to get the show on the road!!
They admitted me around 7 am. By that point, it was extremely painful to sit. I refused the wheelchair, and walked myself up to the labor deck. I put on the very fashionable gown--complete with slits in the front that would allow me to whip out my boobies with ease!!--and the nurse came to get my information. She checked me, and found that I was dilated to 3 or 4 cm, but the bag was bulging. She immediately pulled her hands out of my vajayjay so as not to risk inadvertently breaking my water (only doctors can do that). They finally moved me into the labor room, and I did my best to get comfortable. All I could really do by that point was lay on my left side. Any other position was too painful.
You're probably thinking, "Man, I hope she gets her epidural soon."
I didn't have one. On purpose. I didn't want an epidural. People look at you like you have an extra head when you say the words "I don't want an epidural." Let me just say, I don't judge you if you had an epidural, or if you plan to have one. I didn't opt to go natural because I am a crazy hippie. The women in my family are built such that babies just, like, shoot out of us. We have short labors. I was banking on this, and I didn't want an epidural to slow the process down. I also didn't want a catheter, or to have a needle shoved into my spine. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made, and I won't have one the next time either. That's why I didn't have an epidural. Turns out, my gamble was a good one--I was only in active labor for about 6 hours.
Anyway, so I'm laying on my left side, breathing through the contractions. My OB was actually on call that day, which was excellent. He came in around 10:20, and asked if I wanted to have my water broken. He told me it would speed things up, but also make my contractions more intense. I believe my response was, "Let's get this over with." He broke my water, and checked me again. By that point, I was already dilated to 7 cm. The stage of labor that takes you from 7 cm to 10 cm (fully dilated) is called transition. It's the most intense (read: painful) part, but also the shortest. It was very intense. But, it only lasted for about 45 minutes. At one point, I questioned whether I was going to make it. My mom was my coach, and I looked at her and said "I don't know if I can do this." By that point, I had no choice. They wouldn't have given me the epidural even if I wanted it. I was incredibly relieved when I finally felt the urge to push. My OB got there, I pushed for about 20 minutes (which actually felt amazing), and then they handed me this:
Hello, Dear Internets. I apologize for the long hiatus. Apparently, babies are a lot of work!! I know I had mentioned doing a 38 Weeks post, but I decided just to share the good part--the belly pic. That's what you all want anyway, right? This was taken at my baby shower--2 days before Macy was born. Check out my sweet cankles!!
The rest of that post would have read something along the lines of "Ankles...really swollen...pee 30 times a day...glad I made it to my own shower."
You see, 5 days prior, I had my first visit to my OB's office. At this visit, I was informed that I was already dilated to 2 cm, and would NOT be making it to my due date, or even to June. When I commented that I only needed to make it to the 28th--the day of my baby shower--I was told I had a 50/50 chance. Thankfully, Macy cooperated. My shower was amazing, and I would like to thank all of Macy's wonderful Illinois Aunties for doing such an awesome job. Here is a picture of all of us:
The day after my shower, I was supposed to go to the lake with the fam. My brother was in town visiting from Springfield, and we were supposed to have a nice day sweating in the sun on the boat. I woke up that day feeling like crap. I was also pretty sure I was leaking amniotic fluid, which meant I definitely shouldn't be getting into any lakes. I decided to stay home and nest all day instead. It was a good thing too, because that day was the most uncomfortable day of my entire life. I was feeling an incredible amount of pressure in my abdomen, and a lot of pain too. I was sweating like a pig, and I couldn't get comfortable.
That evening, I started having contractions. If you've never had a kid, please don't believe anything you see on TV. Contractions are not a sudden, stabbing, debilitating pain that blind sides you out of nowhere. They feel very much like cramps, and they start out mild and intensify over time. If you have back labor, which I did, they feel like a lower back ache. Many people think back labor is very painful. I have always had back problems, so I actually didn't think back labor was that bad. I was relieved that I had started having contractions--that meant the end of my pregnancy was near. I slept as much as I could that night. The contractions really weren't that bad. They were uncomfortable, but I managed to sleep through them for a little while. By 6:00 the next morning, they were finally 3-5 minutes apart and consistent--time to head to the hospital!! By that point, I was ready to get the show on the road!!
They admitted me around 7 am. By that point, it was extremely painful to sit. I refused the wheelchair, and walked myself up to the labor deck. I put on the very fashionable gown--complete with slits in the front that would allow me to whip out my boobies with ease!!--and the nurse came to get my information. She checked me, and found that I was dilated to 3 or 4 cm, but the bag was bulging. She immediately pulled her hands out of my vajayjay so as not to risk inadvertently breaking my water (only doctors can do that). They finally moved me into the labor room, and I did my best to get comfortable. All I could really do by that point was lay on my left side. Any other position was too painful.
You're probably thinking, "Man, I hope she gets her epidural soon."
I didn't have one. On purpose. I didn't want an epidural. People look at you like you have an extra head when you say the words "I don't want an epidural." Let me just say, I don't judge you if you had an epidural, or if you plan to have one. I didn't opt to go natural because I am a crazy hippie. The women in my family are built such that babies just, like, shoot out of us. We have short labors. I was banking on this, and I didn't want an epidural to slow the process down. I also didn't want a catheter, or to have a needle shoved into my spine. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made, and I won't have one the next time either. That's why I didn't have an epidural. Turns out, my gamble was a good one--I was only in active labor for about 6 hours.
Anyway, so I'm laying on my left side, breathing through the contractions. My OB was actually on call that day, which was excellent. He came in around 10:20, and asked if I wanted to have my water broken. He told me it would speed things up, but also make my contractions more intense. I believe my response was, "Let's get this over with." He broke my water, and checked me again. By that point, I was already dilated to 7 cm. The stage of labor that takes you from 7 cm to 10 cm (fully dilated) is called transition. It's the most intense (read: painful) part, but also the shortest. It was very intense. But, it only lasted for about 45 minutes. At one point, I questioned whether I was going to make it. My mom was my coach, and I looked at her and said "I don't know if I can do this." By that point, I had no choice. They wouldn't have given me the epidural even if I wanted it. I was incredibly relieved when I finally felt the urge to push. My OB got there, I pushed for about 20 minutes (which actually felt amazing), and then they handed me this:
Macy Jane
May 30, 11:36 am
7 pounds, 2.3 ounces
19.5 inches long
Perfect. Absolutely Perfect.
Theeeen, it got a little bit interesting. I am a prime example of why home births are a BAAAAD plan. If I had given birth at home, Macy would have been perfectly fine...and I would have bled to death. The worst part of my labor was not the contractions...or the pushing...or being stuck 3 times for my IV. It was the 20 minutes my OB spent trying to keep me from bleeding out on the table. I actually cried during that part. I just wanted him to STOP.PUSHING.ON.MY.STOMACH. I lost 3000 ccs of blood, and my blood pressure got as low as 80 over 30. Fun times! I had no idea what was happening, but apparently, it was pretty serious. I didn't have to have a transfusion, but they spent the next 10 hours pumping me full of pitocin.
Despite my theatrics, I had an amazing birth experience. My OB was awesome. I had wonderful nurses. I was feeling good by the next day.
Oh, and this little thing? Did I mention that she is Perfect?? :)
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Wednesday Hodgepodge--6/1/11
I have not been to DC. It is on my list of things to do while I'm living in Virginia, since it is only a few hours away. I have heard the traffic there is atrocious, which could be a big reason why I haven't gone yet. I don't really have one specific thing I would like to see when I finally visit.
2. When did you last attend a wedding? Are there any weddings on your summer calendar? Were you a summer bride? If you're single, is summer the season of your dream wedding?
I had to think a bit on this one. I'm pretty sure the last wedding I went to was back in 2005, when my parents got married. I know plenty of people who have gotten married since then, but I haven't been able to make it to any of their weddings. I do not have any weddings on my summer calendar. I would actually prefer to get married in the fall, myself.
3. What is your favorite way to eat strawberries?
With Cool Whip on a hot summer day.
4. What is one thing you are especially looking forward to this summer?
Hmmm...well I just finished a *little* project that I have been working on for about nine months now...I am pretty much looking forward to watching all of her Firsts and taking pictures of her in all of her little summer outfits.
5. Do you use/like the self checker at the grocery store?
I am a bit particular about the way my groceries are bagged (never would have imagined, huh?), so I love the self checker. The baggers at the commissary work for tips. You would think they would be better at bagging. However, they frequently bag my groceries in paper without asking me (HATE), and put my raw pork chops right on top of my produce--despite the fact that I organize everything on the belt for them. The self checker helps me keep my blood pressure down.
6. Share a favorite piece of common sense advice.
If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
7. Barefoot, flip flops, tennis shoes, sassy sandals-your first choice for summertime?
Flippy Floppies. Tidewater Flip Flops, to be exact. They are foam with cloth straps, so they never leave blisters--EVER. They are soooo comfortable!
8. If you noticed that there was no 38 Weeks or Prayer Monday post from me this week, that's because I got a little bit busy with being in labor. I did make it all the way to 38 Weeks, so I will put up a post with a final belly pic, eventually. I am actually still in the hospital at the moment. Macy Jane graced us with her presence on May 30th, at 11:36 am. She weighed 7 pounds, 2 ounces, and was 19.5 inches long. She is perfect. I will post about her after I get paroled and get settled at home. Meanwhile, here is a picture to hold everyone over.
2. When did you last attend a wedding? Are there any weddings on your summer calendar? Were you a summer bride? If you're single, is summer the season of your dream wedding?
I had to think a bit on this one. I'm pretty sure the last wedding I went to was back in 2005, when my parents got married. I know plenty of people who have gotten married since then, but I haven't been able to make it to any of their weddings. I do not have any weddings on my summer calendar. I would actually prefer to get married in the fall, myself.
3. What is your favorite way to eat strawberries?
With Cool Whip on a hot summer day.
4. What is one thing you are especially looking forward to this summer?
Hmmm...well I just finished a *little* project that I have been working on for about nine months now...I am pretty much looking forward to watching all of her Firsts and taking pictures of her in all of her little summer outfits.
5. Do you use/like the self checker at the grocery store?
I am a bit particular about the way my groceries are bagged (never would have imagined, huh?), so I love the self checker. The baggers at the commissary work for tips. You would think they would be better at bagging. However, they frequently bag my groceries in paper without asking me (HATE), and put my raw pork chops right on top of my produce--despite the fact that I organize everything on the belt for them. The self checker helps me keep my blood pressure down.
6. Share a favorite piece of common sense advice.
If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
7. Barefoot, flip flops, tennis shoes, sassy sandals-your first choice for summertime?
Flippy Floppies. Tidewater Flip Flops, to be exact. They are foam with cloth straps, so they never leave blisters--EVER. They are soooo comfortable!
8. If you noticed that there was no 38 Weeks or Prayer Monday post from me this week, that's because I got a little bit busy with being in labor. I did make it all the way to 38 Weeks, so I will put up a post with a final belly pic, eventually. I am actually still in the hospital at the moment. Macy Jane graced us with her presence on May 30th, at 11:36 am. She weighed 7 pounds, 2 ounces, and was 19.5 inches long. She is perfect. I will post about her after I get paroled and get settled at home. Meanwhile, here is a picture to hold everyone over.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
37 Weeks
I do apologize for being MIA here lately. I had to make last-minute preps to travel 900 miles, followed by a 2-day drive. Although I have LOTS of free time right now, I am certainly out of my element, and out of my routine. It has definitely thrown off my blogging. I promise I'll try to do better this week! Here is the latest update on Macy.
How far along?
37 Weeks.
Total weight gain/loss:
I don't know. I haven't weighed myself in almost 2 weeks.
Gender:
It's a Girl!! Macy Jane.
Size of baby:
Macy weighs about 6.3 pounds. She is about the size of a watermelon, and is over 19 inches from head to heel. These are just rough measurements. She is officially full term today!!
Maternity clothes?
Yes. I only have a couple of non-maternity shirts that still fit.
Stretch marks?
Yes--I do think the Mederma is helping though. I have noticed that they are lighter in some places. I haven't developed any new ones since the ones on my hips showed up a while ago.
Sleep:
I get up a couple times to go to the bathroom every night. It is actually somewhat difficult (and very uncomfortable) to haul myself out of bed half asleep. I have been sleeping with my feet up, which isn't that comfortable. I'm also not in my house, so that makes it harder to sleep.
Best moment this week:
Getting to call her Full Term. If she comes out tomorrow, she should be perfectly fine--lungs and all.
Movement:
Feel those kicks? She's gonna be a socca playa....she is...she iiiiiiiiiss. She has changed up her routine a little. Lately, she is super active in the afternoons, which is fine by me. She is moving around quite a bit right now. I think she has mastered the art of pushing against my rib cage with her feet and forcing herself even further down into my pelvis (and onto my bladder!) She is head-down, and I think she is facing to my right side, because I always feel her kicking me on that side.
Food cravings:
Lemonade--all types. McDonald's frozen strawberry lemonade, Simply Lemonade with raspberry, Summer Shandy (lemonade beer).
Symptoms:
Let's hear it for CANKLES!!! The literally showed up as soon as I got out of the car following my 900-mile trek. I've been sleeping with my feet up, trying to stay off my feet, drinking as much water as I can stand, and trying to cut down on salt. None of it really prevents my feet from looking like the skin on my ankles is about to pop by the end of the day. I also go through about a roll of toilet paper per day, due to my hourly trips to the bathroom.
Belly Button: in or out?
The inside is flat, but the edges are starting to roll out a little bit.
Rings: on or off?
Off.
What I miss:
Bending over, shaving my legs without sweating and huffing, beer.
What I am looking forward to:
How far along?
37 Weeks.
Total weight gain/loss:
I don't know. I haven't weighed myself in almost 2 weeks.
Gender:
It's a Girl!! Macy Jane.
Size of baby:
Macy weighs about 6.3 pounds. She is about the size of a watermelon, and is over 19 inches from head to heel. These are just rough measurements. She is officially full term today!!
Maternity clothes?
Yes. I only have a couple of non-maternity shirts that still fit.
Stretch marks?
Yes--I do think the Mederma is helping though. I have noticed that they are lighter in some places. I haven't developed any new ones since the ones on my hips showed up a while ago.
Sleep:
I get up a couple times to go to the bathroom every night. It is actually somewhat difficult (and very uncomfortable) to haul myself out of bed half asleep. I have been sleeping with my feet up, which isn't that comfortable. I'm also not in my house, so that makes it harder to sleep.
Best moment this week:
Getting to call her Full Term. If she comes out tomorrow, she should be perfectly fine--lungs and all.
Movement:
Feel those kicks? She's gonna be a socca playa....she is...she iiiiiiiiiss. She has changed up her routine a little. Lately, she is super active in the afternoons, which is fine by me. She is moving around quite a bit right now. I think she has mastered the art of pushing against my rib cage with her feet and forcing herself even further down into my pelvis (and onto my bladder!) She is head-down, and I think she is facing to my right side, because I always feel her kicking me on that side.
Food cravings:
Lemonade--all types. McDonald's frozen strawberry lemonade, Simply Lemonade with raspberry, Summer Shandy (lemonade beer).
Symptoms:
Let's hear it for CANKLES!!! The literally showed up as soon as I got out of the car following my 900-mile trek. I've been sleeping with my feet up, trying to stay off my feet, drinking as much water as I can stand, and trying to cut down on salt. None of it really prevents my feet from looking like the skin on my ankles is about to pop by the end of the day. I also go through about a roll of toilet paper per day, due to my hourly trips to the bathroom.
Belly Button: in or out?
The inside is flat, but the edges are starting to roll out a little bit.
Rings: on or off?
Off.
What I miss:
Bending over, shaving my legs without sweating and huffing, beer.
What I am looking forward to:
I have my first visit with the doctor who will be delivering her on Monday. I'm excited to ask him my giant list of questions. I'm also hoping a little bit that I might be dilated a couple centimeters. I want her to stay in there until my shower next weekend, but after that--game on!
Sunday, May 8, 2011
35 Weeks
How far along?
35 Weeks.
Total weight gain/loss:
32 Pounds.
Gender:
It's a Girl!! Macy Jane.
Size of baby:
Macy weighs about 5.25 pounds. She is about the size of a honeydew melon, and is over 18 inches from head to heel.
Maternity clothes?
Yup. Even my large t-shirts are having trouble covering my whole belly.
Stretch marks?
Yes.
Sleep:
I've been sleeping pretty well. It is difficult to get up out of bed to go to the bathroom though, especially when I'm half asleep.
Best moment this week:
Picking up my maternity pictures.
Movement:
I drank caffeinated coffee yesterday...it felt like there was a circus in my uterus...or maybe a track meet.
Food cravings:
Chocolate.
Symptoms:
Lack of mobility, peeing like a pregnant woman.
Belly Button: in or out?
Neither? It is pretty much flat at this point.
Rings: on or off?
Off.
What I miss:
Frozen alcoholic beverages. I ate Mexican food tonight, and I really wanted a margarita. McDonald's new frozen strawberry lemonade will have to do for now.
What I am looking forward to:
Heading to the So Ill this week.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
34 Weeks
Sorry I didn't dress up for you today!
34 Weeks.
Total weight gain/loss:
31 Pounds.
Gender:
It's a Girl!! Macy Jane.
Size of baby:
Macy weighs about 4.75 pounds. She is about the size of a cantaloupe, and is about 18 inches from head to heel.
Maternity clothes?
I broke down and spent way too much money at Motherhood Maternity the other day. They are over-priced, but their clothes are so cute!
Stretch marks?
Yes...and I don't know that this Mederma crap is even doing anything.
Sleep:
I've been sleeping pretty well this week. My dreams have gone from upsetting, to just weird. I do get up at least once a night and stumble to the bathroom, though.
Best moment this week:
The last bit of my travel paperwork is FINALLY finished. I'm so grateful that God took care of everything for me--I've been so nervous.
Movement:
Quite a bit. She has fingernails and toenails now, and I think she is starting to use them as weapons in there.
Food cravings:
Chocolate...I guess it doesn't help that I hit the Walgreen's after-Easter candy clearance for a large bag of Hershey's eggs, some M&Ms, and 2 boxes of Cadbury Creme Eggs. Once the tasty treats are in my house, I have very little willpower to keep from eating them.
Symptoms:
I'm convinced that my bladder now holds about 10 mL of fluid--which is about 2 teaspoons. (Driving 900 miles next week should be interesting) I have all but lost the ability to lean forward, and it is getting difficult to roll over and get out of bed.
Belly Button: in or out?
Neither? It is pretty much flat at this point.
Rings: on or off?
Off.
What I miss:
There aren't many things in the world I would like more than to eat a 16-piece order of Boss wings from Wild Wing Cafe with extra EXTRA bleu cheese and celery, and drink a couple of Summer Shandys.
What I am looking forward to:
This is my last weekend of work!! Then I get to go home for over a month! I haven't spent more than a couple weeks at home since 2005.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
33 Weeks
33 Weeks.
Total weight gain/loss:
29 Pounds.
Gender:
It's a Girl!! Macy Jane.
Size of baby:
Macy weighs about 4 pounds. She is about the size of a pineapple, and is about 17 inches from head to heel.
Maternity clothes?
Yup. Just got my shorts yesterday. I don't really care for the full-panel anymore, because it isn't big enough and it cuts into my belly. I'm pretty much sticking with the low rise. Oh, and dresses.
Stretch marks?
Battling them twice a day. I don't think they're multiplying too much lately.
Sleep:
This week I started having hip pain if I stay in the same position too long. I've always been a side sleeper, but now I wake up with sharp pains in my hips. I also have to get up to go to the bathroom. Overall though, decent sleep--all things considered.
Best moment this week:
Sorting through her wardrobe to see what she has and what she still needs.
Movement:
She moves a lot, and she responds to things she doesn't like. If I lean too far forward, she responds by kicking me in the ribs.
Food cravings:
I don't know if I would consider it a craving, but I eat toast with peanut butter at least once a day. EVERY day.
Symptoms:
Hip pain, trips to the bathroom, general lack of mobility, especially when it comes to leaning forward.
Belly Button: in or out?
Still in, but getting pretty shallow these days.
Rings: on or off?
Off.
What I miss:
Bending over comfortably.
What I am looking forward to:
Going home in a couple weeks.
Friday, April 22, 2011
S is for Summer Wardrobe
The other day, I discovered the Carter's website. I might have gone a little bit overboard.
I thought I wanted a boy when I first got pregnant. I was indifferent when I found out she is a girl--not really disappointed or anything like that. The closer her due date gets, the more excited I am that I am having a little girl. I can't wait to put her in dresses and bows. My Mom told me to enjoy it while I can, because eventually she won't want to wear anything I put her in--you know, like how I was when I was a toddler. These dresses are part of her summer wardrobe--for just this summer. I already have stuff for next year, too. I have been working on bows to match. I've been trying really hard to stay away from pink because she does have a lot of it. I think I've done a pretty good job of it too, as none of these dresses are predominantly pink.
The one on the left looks almost blue in the picture, but it's actually purple, which is my favorite color.
I also found her some blue dresses. I love that I can put her in whatever color I want, as long as it is a dress, and people will still be able to tell she is a girl.
I stumbled across this set of orange dresses, and I managed to make a pretty awesome matching bow! I just took up the bow making, so I still need some practice.
The one on the right was from Aunt Christina--I love the little butterfly on the bum cover!
These yellow ones are from my favorite store--Target.
I found this one, and another purple one that hasn't come yet, on carters.com.
Lastly, we have what I call the Joybringer. I don't know why, but I have realized that I love flamingos, and I just HAD to buy this set. I can't wait for her to wear them!!
These are mostly things I have bought for her. She has a Grandma, a Great Grandma, and a whole lot of Aunties at home, in addition to her Aunties here, to spoil her rotten. I think this kid is ruined already! I can't wait for her to get here so I can really spoil her.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
N is for Nursing
I am going to try not to get all ranty with this one, but it is something about which I feel very strongly. I just attended a "Breastfeeding for Working Moms" class this morning, so it's on my mind.
I have always known I was going to breastfeed my children. My brother, sister, and I were all breastfed. I remember when my sister was born. I remember my Mom nursing her. I grew up knowing that breastfeeding is just how moms nourish their children. I have never even considered giving Macy formula.
In addition to the fact that it costs, well, almost nothing to breastfeed, there are so many other benefits. Babies are born with fragile immune systems. They come out with Mom's immunity, but they don't maintain that immunity without breastmilk. Breastfeeding lets Mom continue to pass on her immunity to Baby. Breastmilk is tailored to Baby's needs. It changes throughout Baby's life so that it always meets Baby's nutritional needs. It can reduce the chances of allergies later in life. Also, very very few babies are actually allergic to breastmilk. They can be allergic to certain proteins in the breastmilk, like from dairy or soy, but an actual breastmilk allergy is very rare--this is not true of formula, and God forbid your baby needs the special formula that costs $90 per can. Yes, I said PER CAN. Breastfeeding is easy--you don't have to warm the milk, or mix the milk, or wash your nipples when you are finished. It's such a no-brainer for me!
I have always thought that most of this was common knowledge. Lately, I'm running into lots of women who either don't know how good it is to breastfeed, or they just don't care. I work with a lot of pregnant women. A.LOT. Many of them are young. Most of them are first-time moms. I was reading a book at work one day--The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding by Gwen Gotsch and Judy Torgus. I actually had another expectant mommy--who is my age, and already has one child--tell me that it grossed her out to even think about breastfeeding.
What? I don't get it. I understand that some women can't breastfeed. Some women can't pump milk when they go back to work. Some women work jobs where they are not permitted to pump. Some women never establish a good enough milk supply to meet Baby's needs. I completely understand those situations. I hope that I am fortunate enough to have a good milk supply, and have the ability to pump so I can go back to work. But to refuse to even attempt because "it grosses me out"--even for the first few days so your baby can at least get the colostrum that is SOOO good for her? I think that is one of the most selfish things I have ever heard. By the way, it's not all about YOU anymore. You're having a baby. There are a lot of things parents have to do that aren't fun or pleasant. There are a lot of things about being a parent that don't smell good or look pretty. Deal with it.
There are plenty of things that gross me out about being having a baby. Pick up any pregnancy book and read the chapter about the first 6 weeks postpartum. That chapter is even grosser than the one about labor itself. Giving birth is messy and traumatic to delicate tissues and just, in general, disgusting. Do I get a choice as to whether or not I have to go through that part? Absolutely not. I have to do it.
I don't think there is anything gross about breastfeeding. It's natural, and it's probably the best thing I can do for Macy in the first year of her life. I wish that society didn't have to make such a big deal about it. I wish that state and federal governments didn't have to pass laws that say I am allowed to feed my child wherever I please so that people would stop throwing a fit about it. I wish that people didn't steer their kids away from mothers who breastfeed in public and give them "that look." Maybe they could simply explain to their kids, "That's how mommies feed their babies." I'll cover myself because I'm a modest person, and I feel it is considerate to do so. I will NOT go to the bathroom to breastfeed my child in a stall because you are uncomfortable being honest with your child and explaining a natural bodily process to them. Would you eat lunch in a public restroom? I didn't think so. Macy isn't going to either--and there's nothing you can do about it.
See? Only a little bit ranty today.
32 Weeks
How far along?
32 Weeks.
Total weight gain/loss:
28 Pounds.
Gender:
It's a Girl!! Macy Jane.
Size of baby:
Macy weighs about 3.75 pounds. She is about the size of a large jicama, and is about 16.75 inches from head to heel. (I always use the same website to get this information. For some reason, they always compare her size to vegetables. I don't know how big a jicama is, and the only reason I have ever heard of it is from watching Chopped. Maybe Casey can enlighten us.)
Maternity clothes?
Rocking them. I ordered shorts yesterday because I only have 2 pair that fit. I am a huge fan of the roll-down waist yoga pants from Old Navy. I was able to find shorts with the same waist, so I'm pretty excited. They are so comfortable, they stay where they are supposed to, and the roll-down waist keeps them from cutting into me.
Stretch marks?
Battling them twice a day. I do have the Burt's Bees Belly Balm that Casey suggested last week, but it is sort of a pain to apply. It's not a lotion or a cream--it's more like a solid wax that melts with the heat from your fingers. It takes a while to apply, so I sort of gave up on it a while back.
Sleep:
Bad dreams. Same as usual. Trips to the bathroom in the night don't help either.
Best moment this week:
My photos went up yesterday--they turned out amazing! I will be placing an order the week of the 25th.
Movement:
All the time. I think she has been stretching out more because I feel her in odd places these days. She also gets hiccups fairly often.
Food cravings:
Eh...Not cravings so much as laziness. I really haven't felt like cooking this week, so I haven't been eating very well.
Symptoms:
Braxton-Hicks contractions here and there, bathroom trips, some shortness of breath as she moves farther up into the space where my lungs should me. I'm very glad that I'm carrying low because the shortness of breath sucks a lot.
Belly Button: in or out?
Still in, but getting pretty shallow these days.
Rings: on or off?
Off.
What I miss:
Missing booze again this week. I would have loves some Sangria from Blue Sky, or a Wallaby Darned from Outback.
What I am looking forward to:
Ordering my pictures, and finishing up my paperwork for my travel.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
31 Weeks
Just woke up = PUFFY FACE
How far along?
31 Weeks.
Total weight gain/loss:
26 Pounds.
Gender:
It's a Girl!! Macy Jane.
Size of baby:
Macy weighs about 3.3 pounds. She is about the size of 4 navel oranges, and is over 16 inches from head to heel.
Maternity clothes?
I am modeling my fashionable new maternity swim wear in my photo. It was a pretty good investment, I think. Love you, Old Navy!
Stretch marks?
Ummm, yes. Like an epidemic!! They're creeping down onto my upper thighs. I did manage to find the Mederma Stretch Marks Therapy this week. AND it was on sale for $35.99 instead of $39.99. AND I had a coupon for $4 off. I love bargains. Supposedly I'll see results in as soon as 4 weeks. We'll see.
Sleep:
Bad dreams. Same as usual. Trips to the bathroom in the night don't help either.
Best moment this week:
My maternity photo shoot was pretty awesome. I think I picked some good outfits.
Movement:
Less jabbing and kicking, and more rolling around. I can feel her up under my ribcage now, which gets a little uncomfortable sometimes. I think she presses on my bladder on purpose. I can tell when she moves around and stomps on it.
Food cravings:
I apparently was having cravings when I made my grocery list, because I came home with all kinds of unhealthy meals...crescent dogs, pirogies...nothing good for me.
Symptoms:
Braxton-Hicks contractions started this week. They don't really hurt--they just feel like a prolonged cramp. Macy does NOT like them, and she kicks repeatedly during them.
Belly Button: in or out?
Still in, but getting pretty shallow these days.
Rings: on or off?
Off.
What I miss:
Mobility. I feel like my movements are really restricted. I know it's only going to get worse.
What I am looking forward to:
Looking at my photos online once my photographer posts them in a couple weeks!!
Saturday, April 2, 2011
30 Weeks--and I even put on makeup for this one!
How far along?
30 Weeks.
Total weight gain/loss:
24 Pounds.
Gender:
It's a Girl!! Macy Jane.
Size of baby:
Macy weighs almost 3 pounds. She is about the size of a head of cabbage, and is about 15.7 inches from head to heel.
Maternity clothes?
I broke down and bought some new t-shirts from Salvation Army the other day. I'm not usually the thrift-store type, but I can't afford to spend $10-$20 a piece for t-shirts I will only wear for the next few months. I got about 10 shirts for $13.50, so I can't complain. Still rocking the yoga pants.
Stretch marks?
I found some on my hips today! Sneaky little bastards.
Sleep:
Bad dreams. Every night. Not really much I can do about it.
Best moment this week:
Getting my outfits for my maternity photos next week. Now I just need to try everything on to make sure it looks the way I want it to.
Movement:
Oh, jeeze. Last night I swear it felt like she had a weapon in there. I could feel it right at my belly button, and it felt more like a shiv than a hand or a foot. Her movements are getting more violent, and even painful from time to time.
Food cravings:
They made a comeback this week. French fries and chocolate. I finally got my Thin Mints, so I have been eating them for the last couple days. It's probably good because I lost 3 pounds last week, so I should probably try to gain some of that back.
Symptoms:
Nosebleeds are back again. She is still sitting right on my bladder, so I still spend a good portion of the day in the bathroom. Swollen ankles.
Belly Button: in or out?
Still in, but getting pretty shallow these days.
Rings: on or off?
Off.
What I miss:
Beer and cigarettes. I'm sad to admit it, but that is what I have missed this week.
What I am looking forward to:
My maternity photos on Thursday.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
29 Weeks
29 Weeks.
Total weight gain/loss:
23 Pounds.
Gender:
It's a Girl!! Macy Jane. I decided the other day.
Size of baby:
Macy weighs about 2.5 pounds. She is about the size of a butternut squash, and is about 15 inches from head to heel.
Maternity clothes?
I am running out of shirts! I can't wait for it to warm up so I can wear dresses. Still sticking with the yoga pants and my 2 pair of maternity jeans.
Stretch marks?
Just on my chest so far. More troubling are the spider veins...but I started getting those about 5 years ago. Thanks, genetics.
Sleep:
Some nights I sleep well, some nights I have bad dreams. I have been taking naps more frequently, which helps.
Best moment this week:
Going through all of her stuff to get a feel for what I still need to buy. The worst moment was my Rhophylac shot today!! She just KEPT.PUSHING.THE.PLUNGER. It felt like MINUTES it took her to inject all of it. My ass is still sore.
Movement:
All the time. The other day I learned what a Fetal Kick Count is. I'm supposed to feel for her movements and count 10 in an hour. Not every hour, but about once a day during the time she is most active. Last night I made it to 10 movements in about 5 minutes. She does not like it when I hunch over forward. She let me know that today by kicking me right in the ribs. She is still most active at night. I love feeling her kick as I fall asleep.
Food cravings:
None this week. I haven't even wanted to eat after last Tuesday.
Symptoms:
Frequent trips to the bathroom, swollen ankles, night-time leg cramps. Also general discomfort as it gets harder for me to get around.
Belly Button: in or out?
Still in.
Rings: on or off?
Off.
What I miss:
Wine, bending over, going more than an hour without a bathroom break.
What I am looking forward to:
Getting the hell out of Virginia for 6 weeks.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
28 Weeks--With Ultrasound Pictures!
28 Weeks.
Total weight gain/loss:
26 Pounds.
Gender:
It's a Girl!! Her first name is Macy.
Size of baby:
Macy weighs about 2.25 pounds. She is about the size of a Chinese cabbage, and is about 14.8 inches from head to heel.
Maternity clothes?
I just ordered a maternity swim suit yesterday. Right now I'm living in yoga pants and t-shirts, or maternity jeans and a cute shirt if I go somewhere.
Stretch marks?
I'm having a hard time hunting down this Mederma Stretch Mark Therapy. They don't have it at Babies R Us, or Target. I know I can count on Amazon if need be, but I want to find it in a store because I have a coupon.
Sleep:
My sleep patterns are kind of irregular. Some nights I sleep well, other nights I have bad dreams.
Best moment this week:
Getting to see her on the ultrasound tonight. The pictures didn't turn out great, but I could pick out some of her features. She has my nose and lips, and her Father's cheeks. We can't determine the forehead size yet since we can't see her hairline--unfortunately.
Her heartbeat--150 beats per minute
Her profile
Look at that face!
Movement:
She wakes up in the evenings. She has been kicking and punching me a lot this week. The other night I could feel her kicking one side of my abdomen while she punched the other at the same time in this weird rhythm.
Food cravings:
They have calmed down a little this week. I have also been trying to eat healthier.
Symptoms:
Macy sits on my bladder because I am carrying low, so I pee a lot. The nosebleeds are gone for the time being, and I have a little more energy this week, but still not as much as I did in my second trimester. I have a little bit of swelling in my ankles because I walk a lot.
Belly Button: in or out?
Still in.
Rings: on or off?
Off. They have started to leave an imprint even during the day. I guess I'm getting pretty puffy these days.
What I miss:
Bending over without feeling like I am suffocating.
What I am looking forward to:
Meeting her and seeing her in person!!
She wakes up in the evenings. She has been kicking and punching me a lot this week. The other night I could feel her kicking one side of my abdomen while she punched the other at the same time in this weird rhythm.
Food cravings:
They have calmed down a little this week. I have also been trying to eat healthier.
Symptoms:
Macy sits on my bladder because I am carrying low, so I pee a lot. The nosebleeds are gone for the time being, and I have a little more energy this week, but still not as much as I did in my second trimester. I have a little bit of swelling in my ankles because I walk a lot.
Belly Button: in or out?
Still in.
Rings: on or off?
Off. They have started to leave an imprint even during the day. I guess I'm getting pretty puffy these days.
What I miss:
Bending over without feeling like I am suffocating.
What I am looking forward to:
Meeting her and seeing her in person!!
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
27 Weeks
27 Weeks.
Total weight gain/loss:
25 Pounds.
Gender:
It's a Girl!! Her first name is Macy. Still working on the middle name. Baby Steps.
Size of baby:
Macy weighs about 2 pounds. She is about the size of a head of cauliflower, and is about 14.5 inches from head to heel.
Maternity clothes?
Yes Please!! I only have a few t-shirts left that fit. I wore one of my cute new maternity shirts the other day. I can't really wear normal bras anymore because the underwire rubs on my belly and irritates my skin.
Stretch marks?
The Mederma stretch mark therapy cream costs $40 for less than 6 ounces. I'm waiting for payday on that one. Still none on my belly.
Sleep:
Oh I wish. I have been waking up in the night to go to the bathroom. Last night I slept from midnight until 5:30 am without waking up. It was a pretty good night of sleep, all things considered. I guess my body is preparing me for those late-night feedings.
Best moment this week:
Talking to Daddy and telling him what she has been doing, and knowing that I am in my 3rd trimester now!
Movement:
She has been moving a little bit less. I think she might be running out of room. Her movements have started to get uncomfortable from time to time. She still wakes up and moves any time I am still.
Food cravings:
HUNGRY.ALL.THE.TIME. I crave sugar and salt. Chocolate and french fries. Not together though.
Symptoms:
The nosebleeds have made a comeback in the last week. I'm exhausted, and I pee about 30 times a day. My back pain has gotten worse, and in general I just have a hard time getting around. So basically I'm almost 7 months pregnant.
Belly Button: in or out?
Still in.
Rings: on or off?
Off at night and while I exercise, on the rest of the time.
What I miss:
Having Spencer sleep in the bed with me when Daddy is gone. He wakes me up all night, so I had to banish him to the crate.
What I am looking forward to:
Letting Daddy see my belly on Skype if he can ever find a Wi-Fi connection.
It's a Girl!! Her first name is Macy. Still working on the middle name. Baby Steps.
Size of baby:
Macy weighs about 2 pounds. She is about the size of a head of cauliflower, and is about 14.5 inches from head to heel.
Maternity clothes?
Yes Please!! I only have a few t-shirts left that fit. I wore one of my cute new maternity shirts the other day. I can't really wear normal bras anymore because the underwire rubs on my belly and irritates my skin.
Stretch marks?
The Mederma stretch mark therapy cream costs $40 for less than 6 ounces. I'm waiting for payday on that one. Still none on my belly.
Sleep:
Oh I wish. I have been waking up in the night to go to the bathroom. Last night I slept from midnight until 5:30 am without waking up. It was a pretty good night of sleep, all things considered. I guess my body is preparing me for those late-night feedings.
Best moment this week:
Talking to Daddy and telling him what she has been doing, and knowing that I am in my 3rd trimester now!
Movement:
She has been moving a little bit less. I think she might be running out of room. Her movements have started to get uncomfortable from time to time. She still wakes up and moves any time I am still.
Food cravings:
HUNGRY.ALL.THE.TIME. I crave sugar and salt. Chocolate and french fries. Not together though.
Symptoms:
The nosebleeds have made a comeback in the last week. I'm exhausted, and I pee about 30 times a day. My back pain has gotten worse, and in general I just have a hard time getting around. So basically I'm almost 7 months pregnant.
Belly Button: in or out?
Still in.
Rings: on or off?
Off at night and while I exercise, on the rest of the time.
What I miss:
Having Spencer sleep in the bed with me when Daddy is gone. He wakes me up all night, so I had to banish him to the crate.
What I am looking forward to:
Letting Daddy see my belly on Skype if he can ever find a Wi-Fi connection.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
26 Weeks
How far along?
26 Weeks.
Total weight gain/loss:
22 Pounds.
Total weight gain/loss:
22 Pounds.
Gender:
It's a Girl!! Her first name is Macy. Still working on the middle name. Baby Steps.
Size of baby:
Macy weighs about 1.7 pounds, and is about 14 inches from head to heel.
Maternity clothes?
Yes Please!! I wear yoga pants most days, which aren't actually maternity clothes--unless you ask Baby Daddy, who said "Right. Those are pregnant-person pants" when I showed him the yoga pants.
Stretch marks?
I just found out that Mederma makes a product specifically for stretch marks, not just for scars. I will be picking some up this week. Still none on my belly.
Sleep:
Still sleeping like crap. I think it's a combination of missing Daddy, nearing my 3rd trimester and just being tired, and Macy kicking me in the night and waking me up.
Best moment this week:
Realizing that I love being pregnant. As someone who has struggled with body image pretty much since puberty, being pregnant is liberating. It's the one time where it's not only socially acceptable to be fat, but people want you to take pictures of how fat you are and post them on your blog!!
It's a Girl!! Her first name is Macy. Still working on the middle name. Baby Steps.
Size of baby:
Macy weighs about 1.7 pounds, and is about 14 inches from head to heel.
Maternity clothes?
Yes Please!! I wear yoga pants most days, which aren't actually maternity clothes--unless you ask Baby Daddy, who said "Right. Those are pregnant-person pants" when I showed him the yoga pants.
Stretch marks?
I just found out that Mederma makes a product specifically for stretch marks, not just for scars. I will be picking some up this week. Still none on my belly.
Sleep:
Still sleeping like crap. I think it's a combination of missing Daddy, nearing my 3rd trimester and just being tired, and Macy kicking me in the night and waking me up.
Best moment this week:
Realizing that I love being pregnant. As someone who has struggled with body image pretty much since puberty, being pregnant is liberating. It's the one time where it's not only socially acceptable to be fat, but people want you to take pictures of how fat you are and post them on your blog!!
Movement:
She moves anytime I am still for an extended period of time. At night I have been rolling onto my side and feeling her kick as I go to sleep. Feeling her move is very comforting. She is half her Daddy, and when I feel her move, I feel closer to him.
Food cravings:
HUNGRY.ALL.THE.TIME. Plus I'm still pretty depressed, so I'm eating a lot more than I should. I have been trying to compensate by walking more--I'm terrified of gaining too much weight or giving birth to a 20 pound baby.
Symptoms:
The nosebleeds have somewhat subsided. Technically, I don't cross into my 3rd trimester for two more weeks, but I can tell my symptoms are starting to change already. My 1st trimester, I was EXHAUSTED. Like, asleep on the couch before 8 every night, and sleeping until 8 the next morning. I also had some nausea. The day I hit 13 weeks, I wasn't tired anymore, my nausea was gone, and I had headaches all of a sudden. Fortunately, they faded quickly. I have a feeling I'm going to get a whole new set of symptoms in my 3rd trimester, including the return of fatigue.
Belly Button: in or out?
Still in.
Rings: on or off?
Off at night and while I exercise, on the rest of the time.
What I miss:
Today I really wanted a Bloody Mary for some reason. I haven't really "missed" booze too much, but today I could definitely go for a drink.
What I am looking forward to:
Having another 3-D ultrasound in a few weeks.
Belly Button: in or out?
Still in.
Rings: on or off?
Off at night and while I exercise, on the rest of the time.
What I miss:
Today I really wanted a Bloody Mary for some reason. I haven't really "missed" booze too much, but today I could definitely go for a drink.
What I am looking forward to:
Having another 3-D ultrasound in a few weeks.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
25 Weeks
How far along?
25 Weeks--Notice she's starting to throw off my center of gravity and I'm leaning back more.
Total weight gain/loss:
20 Pounds
Total weight gain/loss:
20 Pounds
Gender:
It's a Girl!! Her first name is Macy. Still working on the middle name. Baby Steps.
Size of baby:
Macy is about the size of a rutabaga, and weighs about 1.5 pounds.
Maternity clothes?
Yes Please!! I've been searching for a perfect sun dress for my maternity photos.
Stretch marks?
Trying out the Mederma to zap the ones on the Lady Bags. Using Burt's Bees Mama Bee Belly Balm to avoid them on the abdomen. I don't think I have any, but I can't exactly see the underside of my belly anymore.
Sleep:
Still sleeping like crap--missing Daddy, and having bad dreams pretty frequently.
Best moment this week:
This week I felt and saw her kick from outside my belly. It was pretty amazing. She had the hiccups while I was listening to her on the doppler at the Doctor's office this week, too. I think she's a show-off. I started working on my pregnancy album this week too. It has been a pretty excellent week, all things considered!
Movement:
She is active throughout the day. Her movements feel much more deliberate now. If she's in the right mood, she'll kick my hand as I run it across my belly. She moves the most when I'm in bed at night watching TV.
Food cravings:
HUNGRY.ALL.THE.TIME. Seriously. I ate dinner last night, and a couple hours later, I was STARVING like I hadn't eaten all day. I finally starting buying ice cream at the grocery store because it is cheaper than DQ. I couldn't find my favorite flavor--Edy's Cherry Chocolate chip. I am afraid they might have discontinued it (Gasp!).
Symptoms:
It's a Girl!! Her first name is Macy. Still working on the middle name. Baby Steps.
Size of baby:
Macy is about the size of a rutabaga, and weighs about 1.5 pounds.
Maternity clothes?
Yes Please!! I've been searching for a perfect sun dress for my maternity photos.
Stretch marks?
Trying out the Mederma to zap the ones on the Lady Bags. Using Burt's Bees Mama Bee Belly Balm to avoid them on the abdomen. I don't think I have any, but I can't exactly see the underside of my belly anymore.
Sleep:
Still sleeping like crap--missing Daddy, and having bad dreams pretty frequently.
Best moment this week:
This week I felt and saw her kick from outside my belly. It was pretty amazing. She had the hiccups while I was listening to her on the doppler at the Doctor's office this week, too. I think she's a show-off. I started working on my pregnancy album this week too. It has been a pretty excellent week, all things considered!
Movement:
She is active throughout the day. Her movements feel much more deliberate now. If she's in the right mood, she'll kick my hand as I run it across my belly. She moves the most when I'm in bed at night watching TV.
Food cravings:
HUNGRY.ALL.THE.TIME. Seriously. I ate dinner last night, and a couple hours later, I was STARVING like I hadn't eaten all day. I finally starting buying ice cream at the grocery store because it is cheaper than DQ. I couldn't find my favorite flavor--Edy's Cherry Chocolate chip. I am afraid they might have discontinued it (Gasp!).
Symptoms:
More nosebleeds--every morning I have to blow my nose, and then it bleeds for about 5 minutes. Always the right nostril--weird. The Doc gave me some meds for the acne. We'll see how they work (so far, they aren't). Lately I also just feel really pregnant. I don't know how to describe it any other way.
Belly Button: in or out?
Still in.
Rings: on or off?
Off at night and while I exercise, on the rest of the time.
What I miss:
Bleu cheese, wine, DADDY, the ability to bend over.
What I am looking forward to:
Finding my dress for my maternity photos, and finding Macy's outfit for when Daddy comes home.
Belly Button: in or out?
Still in.
Rings: on or off?
Off at night and while I exercise, on the rest of the time.
What I miss:
Bleu cheese, wine, DADDY, the ability to bend over.
What I am looking forward to:
Finding my dress for my maternity photos, and finding Macy's outfit for when Daddy comes home.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
24 Weeks--She has a name, people!!
How far along?
24 Weeks--Notice she's starting to throw off my center of gravity and I'm leaning back more.
Total weight gain/loss:
20 Pounds--it has been a stressful week!!
Total weight gain/loss:
20 Pounds--it has been a stressful week!!
Gender:
It's a Girl!! Her first name is Macy. Still working on the middle name. Baby Steps.
Size of baby:
She is about the size of an ear of corn, and weighs about 1.4 pounds.
Maternity clothes?
Yes Please!! I got some sweet new yoga pants (I'm wearing them in this picture), and ordered some more maternity clothes from OldNavy.com this week.
Stretch marks?
Trying out the Mederma to zap the ones on the Lady Bags. Using Burt's Bees Mama Bee Belly Balm to avoid them on the abdomen. I don't think I have any, but I can't exactly see the underside of my belly anymore.
Sleep:
Sleeping like crap lately, but mostly because Daddy is gone.
Best moment this week:
Good milestone--she is now a viable Tiny Person!! It's only a 50/50 chance, and she would be in the hospital on machines until June, but she is viable none-the-less!
Movement:
Lots of movement in the evenings. Last night I felt her roll from one side to the other--a first! Usually she just kicks me. She had the hiccups a couple weeks ago. That is a strange (wonderful) feeling!!
Food cravings:
Still substituting food for cigarettes when I am stressed. Also, I am pretty much hungry all the time now. Lately, creamy potato soup in a bread bowl from Panera has been my comfort food of choice.
Symptoms:
It's a Girl!! Her first name is Macy. Still working on the middle name. Baby Steps.
Size of baby:
She is about the size of an ear of corn, and weighs about 1.4 pounds.
Maternity clothes?
Yes Please!! I got some sweet new yoga pants (I'm wearing them in this picture), and ordered some more maternity clothes from OldNavy.com this week.
Stretch marks?
Trying out the Mederma to zap the ones on the Lady Bags. Using Burt's Bees Mama Bee Belly Balm to avoid them on the abdomen. I don't think I have any, but I can't exactly see the underside of my belly anymore.
Sleep:
Sleeping like crap lately, but mostly because Daddy is gone.
Best moment this week:
Good milestone--she is now a viable Tiny Person!! It's only a 50/50 chance, and she would be in the hospital on machines until June, but she is viable none-the-less!
Movement:
Lots of movement in the evenings. Last night I felt her roll from one side to the other--a first! Usually she just kicks me. She had the hiccups a couple weeks ago. That is a strange (wonderful) feeling!!
Food cravings:
Still substituting food for cigarettes when I am stressed. Also, I am pretty much hungry all the time now. Lately, creamy potato soup in a bread bowl from Panera has been my comfort food of choice.
Symptoms:
Still lots of nosebleeds, sinus congestion, ankle swelling, and ACNE!! I look like a 13-year-old boy. It has gotten SOOO bad this week!!
Belly Button: in or out?
Still in.
Rings: on or off?
Off at night and while I exercise, on the rest of the time.
What I miss:
Bleu cheese, wine, DADDY, the ability to bend over. I am a freak and insist on drying my feet and in between my toes after I shower. I fear I won't be able to do that much longer.
What I am looking forward to:
Having some belly pictures taken professionally.
Belly Button: in or out?
Still in.
Rings: on or off?
Off at night and while I exercise, on the rest of the time.
What I miss:
Bleu cheese, wine, DADDY, the ability to bend over. I am a freak and insist on drying my feet and in between my toes after I shower. I fear I won't be able to do that much longer.
What I am looking forward to:
Having some belly pictures taken professionally.
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