Favorite baby items so far

Yes my baby is 6 weeks old. I do not know how this happened. Need to work on a monthly post for him. Maybe I'll do a monthly post on what each kid is up to...

Anyways, here are some of my favorite items that we got for the second kid.

Aden and Anais Swaddle Blankets

These blankets are great! I only have 1 right now but plan on getting a few more. They are nice and light weight. A good covering for Julian to keep him out of the sun. Are fantastic swaddles, especially when it is hot. They are large too so they will work for swaddling for a long time. I love how I can cram it into the diaper bag too. Wish I had these with Evie!








Rock 'n Play

Julian likes to be held. He likes to be moving. He likes to feel close and closed in. I used this at a moms group and was able to get him down for a nap without holding him and bouncing him. Really! Was amazing. I use it 1/2 of the time at night. Try the bassinet first, and when that does not work, I use this. Amazing!







Yoga Ball

This is the one we have. It is a life saver. I had a medium one before for working out, but when your baby likes to be bounced for hours, this is a necessity. Easier to use. You can get better bounces out of it. I love this one since it is weighted and stays in place much better than the non weighted ones.







Wrap

A wrap is so needed with a newborn. They are close, they can smell you, they can hear your heart beat, and they are swaddled like so they feel like they are in the womb again. It really helps calm Julian down and lets me get things done. Yes it is a hot device. When it is hot and humid like the past few days I try not to use it since yeah we both are covered in sweat (gross I know). Also makes shopping so much easier. I have grocery shopped many times with this.





Ring Sling

(google image search) I made this before Julian was born. Love it. Quick on and off. I made mine out of linen to make it more breathable. I do need to alter it a bit to fix a little annoying issues and to make the tail shorter. But it is very workable as is and I use it a lot. I know I will use this thing for lots of day care drop off and pick up. Here are the instructions I used to make mine.







Breastpump

This is the one I have, a Hygeia Enjoye. I am enjoying it, does seem to get milk out faster than my Medela Freestyle. And since it was covered by insurance, every mom should get themselves a good pump!









White Noise App

I have a white noise app on my cell phone. This really helps calm him quick. I have left it on and have slept with it too. Static.... He seems to like the white noise better than birds, ocean, bugs, etc. Hey it makes him happy so I'll take it!






Keurig

This thing is a lifesaver if you like hot coffee. I can make one cup and enjoy it without making too much coffee. Yes we have this cheaper one that takes a bit longer to warm up, but it really is not that long. I also have the ekobrew refillable cup. Cheaper to buy grounds and use this.









Mom's Groups - If you have not gone to a moms group, go to one. It is one of the healthiest things you can do as a new mom. A reason to get out of the house. A reason to laugh. A way to realize you are not crazy and what is happening with you and your newborn is NORMAL. It helps give you sanity.


There is one more thing we are debating about getting. A bottle warmer. Julian is very particular. He likes his bottles mommy temperature. So we are looking at one since he gets a bottle nightly to get him used to it. And I know I will be gone and Nick will be feeding him bottles during the weekend. And I know that the kids will be babysat and a bottle will need to be given. Currently it takes a good 10 minutes to warm the bottle, where a lot of the reviews of warmers I see it takes 4 minutes. Could be worth it.

Of course there are a few more things I forgot and want to add:

Bamboobies

These are great breast pads! I did not need them with Evie, but a second time nursing mom, I need them this time. They don't show much under clothing. They are absorbent and so soft. I did have issues with bleeding and cracked nipples. Other breast pads would stick to my nipples and I would have to run under water to get it off without pealing off the scabs. These did not stick and helped me heal. I love them.





Lily Padz

Also great breast pads! They really helped with healing. They stick to your boobs so you don't need to wear a bra (I always do now). They really really helped with my cracked nipples. No sticking. They helped with my over supply. You don't leak with them - they apply pressure to your nipples to prevent you from leaking.







Motherlove Nipple Cream

This stuff is so much better than the lanolin they give you in the hospital. Goes on easier. And I think it helped me heal quicker. It is food grade stuff, so it is safe for your baby to ingest if he/she does. Wonderful product!

First vs Second Kid

After 2 weeks, I have realized a lot of my parenting style has changed since my first child was born. I have learned what is 'normal', what I don't need to worry about, etc. And of course, I have forgotten all the fun newborn stuff over the past almost 3 years.

Sleeping
With Evie, I was trying to make sure she ate every 2 hours. It was tiring, and she was really hard to wake up. When newborns are asleep, it takes so much effort to wake them up. Undressing them, changing their diaper, tickling their feet, blowing on them (heard a good tip to wet finger and put it on their belly then blow on it). It is just hard and none is guaranteed to work. None of these worked on Evie.

But with Julian, I have learned to let a newborn sleep. Never wake a sleeping baby. They will wake up and let you know when they are hungry or when they need a diaper change. Really. If you are tuned to them and they sleep next to your bed, you can catch them waking up and rooting way before they sleep.

I guess that is something else I have learned with already having a kid, the being able to sleep with keeping an ear out for any noises. I did not sleep well when Evie was a newborn, but with Julian I actually sleep. I am not checking if he is breathing as much. I actually sleep at night when he sleeps. Also I am OK with the idea that I can fall asleep while holding him on my chest burping him. I am not on the edge of the bed. I have both arms around him, and I am more sleeping aware I guess....

Eating
As stated above, we tried to feed Evie every 2 hours. This was exhausting since I needed to pump, we syringe fed for a while. Then I graduated to a nipple shield and used that for a month. We still supplemented with a bottle here and there.

With Julian he latched immediately. I know how to sandwich my boob to get it in his mouth. I know when his latch is good. I know when his latch is bad. I can walk around while nursing him! I am so much more knowledgeable of the hungry cues and he rarely gets too worked up to eat. He nurses on demand, so at times I feel like he is constantly on the boob, but times where he is not nursing for a long stretch.

Leaving them be
I have learned that I can go upstairs to start laundry while he is downstairs sleeping in the pack n play. Yes I look down to make sure he is ok often, but I don't tote him around with me. I guess this is a bit more freedom and less worry. I have learned how to take a shower (bouncy seat in bathroom) and take one regularly without issue. I am getting more done around the house.

Listening to my body
If I am tired I try to take a nap, or at least relax on the couch. If I am sore I sit down and force myself to not push myself. Really, it is simple, but I think when Evie was a newborn, I felt like I had to do this, this, and this and really let my recovery take longer.

Getting out of the house
I don't know why, but it is so much easier to get out of the house! I know what is needed in the diaper bag and I can quickly get it together. I am not worried if the baby cries, since usually I know what he wants. Also I am now a baby wearing mommy - so much simpler to do things and keeps him happy. I have gone to the grocery store, target, moms groups, etc. I am not afraid to take my baby out in public. This also lets me keep my sanity. Getting out of the house daily is really important. Also for quick outings, yes I bring the diaper bag, but no I do not bring it into the store - So much easier!

Baby Wearing
I have learned that baby wearing is so much easier to do things in and out of the house! I have a boba wrap, I made a ring sling, and I have an ergo. With him being so tiny, I am using the wrap and ring sling. The ring sling is so easy to put on and off, but I feel he is more secure in the wrap. I was very smart and made the ring sling of linen so it is nice and breathable in this heat! I am able to clean around the house, clean up dog poop, etc with him on me. Such a great thing to do!

Laundry
With my first, I always watched all of Evie's clothing separate. I continued this for a good 1.5 years. Then I started washing all our clothing together. Julian's clothing is already mixed into ours. I use the same laundry detergent (rockin' green) for all our laundry - so why not. Makes laundry simpler!

Forcing myself to eat an drink
This is so important with a newborn. I have so many snacks around the house. Every time I go to the kitchen I chug a glass of water. I know I need to eat breakfast and lunch, and have that food around the house. I think it is helping me loose the baby weight and helping me keep up my milk production!

Breastfeeding the second time around

So starting breastfeeding Evie was not easy. She would not latch. I had to try to latch her, using sugar water or formula and a syringe. Then feed her with a syringe. Then pump. It was a LONG process, and by the time I was done, everything cleaned for the next time, it was time to do it all over again. It sucked. She was starving since she was not eating enough. I would not have made it through it if it was not for Nick. He was a great support and so helpful in those first few days. Then we moved to a nipple shield, which let her latch, but I still pumped and supplemented with that. I believe we were off the shield around a month.

I was able to breastfeed Evie for 22 months. She decided when she was done. Loved it that way. Around a year we only nursed morning and night since I was DONE pumping at work.

Either it is because I am more confident, or my boobs are more prepared, or Julian is more willing, but nursing is going so much better this time around!

He latched right away in the delivery room! I am nursing on demand and not paying attention to the clock. I really think this helped my milk come in early. When we left the hospital (day 2 - monday birth wednesday left) my milk was already coming in! Was great. (Note: it may have helped that I was drinking Mom's Milk tea in the hospital). Funny - but the lactation consultants at the hospital were surprised about how well things were going. They said I was their easiest patient of the day!

Then I started to get engorged on Thursday. Wow this did not happen the first time around. It was painful. I iced my boobs after feeding. Took ibuprofen. And was generally uncomfortable. Friday (or maybe Thursday I don't remember) I went to Target to get soothies. My nipples were cracked. They both were bleeding. Julian was spitting up some digested blood from them. It was such a pretty picture. The soothies helped a lot.

Some of the issue I believe was that:
1 - was engorged
2 - was not using lanolin after every feeding
3 - was overproducing and his latch would lessen after the initial sucks

Monday I switched over from using soothies to using lilypadz and motherlove nipple cream. These are helping so much more. I was having an issue of some milk leaking out and drying on the breast pad/shirt/bra and having to pry my nipple off of it since it was stuck. Have not had this issue with the lilypadz!

I am leaking this time around, which did not happen with Evie. I want to get some bamboobies breast pads. Have been wanting to get some the past few days, but have not made it to babies r us (maybe today).

And here is a lovely picture of me breastfeeding Julian in the delivery room. Nothing is shown that should not be, and breastfeeding is lovely :)

For the past few days Julian's feeding schedule has been around 2-3 times at night (goes from 3-5 hours between feedings). Then continues 2-3 through the day. Cluster feeding starts around 4 and goes to 7. But then is done for a while! Yes I am currently getting sleep!

Introducing Julian Alexander

Julian Alexander was born Monday May 20 at 1:41 pm!

The morning started off normal. Woke up went to the bathroom, started to loose mucus plug (got excited). Was very excited, maybe things are starting on their own!

Got Evie ready for daycare (school). Dropped her off. Then we headed to the hospital to start the induction process!

Got there a tad after 7am. Went straight to our room and I put on a Johnny. Was a corner odd shaped room, but whatever. Sat in bed and they hooked me up to the monitors. Asked questions, filled out paper work (digital), signed (digital), and just got ready.

The OB came in, saw I was contracting some (they said it was about 3-5 minutes apart). At 7:40 am the OB broke my water and said she would see how that went before using pitocin. She noticed that there was a bit of meconium in the water, so he had to be monitored a bit more.

OK the water breaking was different than it was with Evie. The contractions started to get more painful. With Evie there was one big BIG gush. This one there was a gush, but not as big. And I kept trickling out fluid all day. Like got up and even though I was wearing a pad, it would gush onto the floor and down my leg. Awesome.

With the water broken, the contractions did get much more painful. Very quickly I had to concentrate through them.

At around 8 am they had to start an IV so I could get the IV antibiotics. The nurse warned me that my arm would feel it, and she was not kidding. Was a slight burning sensation, and uncomfortable. She gave me a warm blanket to put on my arm, and yes it did help a lot with the pain. Took a good 30 minutes or more to get the bag of antibiotics.

Sat in bed for a few, channel surfed. The nurse got me an exercise ball since I knew I would want to use it. Ordered breakfast (fruit, blueberry muffin, juice).

Got on the exercise ball and kind of watched tv. Was doing some hip movements I knew from dancing for birth class. Really helped me through each contraction. I loved that exercise ball. Did not want to walk, since the contractions were decently uncomfortable. Was nice not to be tethered to the monitors too. Every once and a while she would get a listen to the baby, but that was it.

Around 10 am I decided to get in the tub. The nurse started the water for me and got the tub nice and warm. She fluid locked the IV and I got into the tub. Nick brought in our bluetooth speaker and listened to music and just sat in the tub. It was not as good as I thought it would be. The tub was not deep enough. Did not use the jets, just was not feeling them. Tub at home would have been MUCH better. Stayed in the tub for a good hour I believe. Got out when she wanted to get a listen to the baby.

Got back on a Johnny and hoped into bed for the listen. Then got back onto the exercise ball. It was my place of choice this labor. I would like to say the contractions were 3 or less apart and lasting a decent amount of time. At noon they started a second bag of antibiotics, but this one had lidocaine in it so it was not painful at all. Was able to be on the ball with the IV stand. But still not hooked up to monitors!

At a bit before 1pm they were getting decently painful. Nick could tell I was getting close since he could tell the level of pain I was in. The nurse and I were curious how far I was, so I got into bed and she asked the doctor to come by once she was out of a c-section. Took a while, and laboring was HARD. She came in and I was a good 7cm. The nurse told me that 7-10 goes quickly.

Was trying not to get pain meds. But the contractions were one after another, and the time between there was a dull contraction. So a constant contraction that would increase in pain then decrease but not go away. Asked for Nubain around 1:10 and got it quickly. I felt it. At this point in labor it does not do much, but helped with the duller in between contractions pain level. Was uncomfortable in bed, but did not want to move. Was more comfy when I was on my side, but sat up during a contraction.

Around 1:20 I started involuntary pushing with each contraction. Wow could not control that and was really odd feeling. Nurse checked me and yep it was baby time! She went to find the OB. They were quite busy at that time so 2 of the OBs from the practice were there. The OB that was overseeing me was busy so another OB delivered (and I love her).

Started pushing at 1:30. Was a different feeling than pushing with Evie. Just felt like I had to push harder. And I knew I was pooping...haha... 3-4 pushes and his head was out. Took a break to gather my breath and then 1-2 more and his shoulders were delivered. 1:41 he was born!!! They kept him down there for a minute or two until the cord stopped pulsing then he came to me skin to skin. Amazing feeling. Immediately my heart grew. 8 lbs 3 oz 21 inches long!

Cuddled with him for a good 20 minutes while I delivered the placenta. I had to do some pushing to deliver it and my OB had to tug on the cord. OK that did feel odd feeling her tug on the cord. Took a while surprisingly. Then she started to stitch me up. A small second degree tear. She did a lot of 1-2 stitch cosmetic stitches. Like a lot.

They took him to get checked out. His temperature was a bit low so he came back to skin to skin and piled two warm blankets on us.

Interesting note - I did not shake at all after birth like I did with Evie. Maybe because I didn't have pitocin? Maybe because I didn't have as much IV fluid?

I ordered lunch and ate it with him on me. His temperature slowly started to climb. I got cleaned up and sat in the wheel chair. Then started to feel light headed. Sat with my head between my legs for a bit and slowly felt better. My blood pressure must have dropped when I got up.

We got wheeled to the Maternity area and settled into our room a bit before 3. He started nursing off great! Evie came and visited. She is fascinated with him!

She left that evening with her YiaYia and Papou. Nick stayed with me until 9 and headed home so Evie could have a normal morning. They stopped by the gift shop and Evie got him a little stuffed doggie that looks just like Luna! She was so proud of herself to get him a gift. We had breakfast together and she headed to daycare. Nick came back and hung out with us all day. He was an excellent nurser all day! Around 4 he headed out and got Evie and brought her home to do the normal after school stuff.

Was not bad being alone in the hospital. I sent him to the nursery at night so I could have a deep sleep. Was nice not to have to listen up for him. He was able to get his testing done, vital signs done, etc. I was able to shower before Nick came over in the morning. Yes sending him to the nursery was a great idea and they brought him back when it was time to eat!

We got discharged on Wednesday morning. Julian's weight was down to 7 lbs 12 oz. An expected weight loss.

So in love!

Induction Tomorrow!

Yep scheduled for tomorrow at 7am.

I am hoping it goes as fast as Evie's went. I am a little afraid of the pain again. I don't know why since I was able to handle it well with Evie's birth. Just jitters I guess.

Should be able to sleep tonight. The end is very close in sight.

I wonder if it will be quicker or longer than Evie's induction. I believe I am further dilated than I was with Evie, so that is beneficial for a quicker birth. I know I want to be more active during labor, more moving around.

Evie is officially going to be a big sister tomorrow! So excited!

Dreams

I think having this kid is so on my mind.

Had 2 dreams (or maybe it was 1 combined).

One was that I woke up so dilated that I could push the kid out from the outside. Funny I know and so not realistic, but that is what dreams do.

The other was (and this is a second time this has happened) is that the kid came out a girl! I want a little boy, but so funny how i keep questioning it.

At most 3 days till this dude makes his appearance!

Giving Up

I have given up thinking that this kid will come on its own.

Yesterday I did lots of stair walking (every other stair), lots of lunges, lots of butterfly stretches, etc. I got some good contractions out of it, but everything puttered out mid afternoon. Blah.

Have not had many contractions since then. Today I had indian for lunch and chinese for dinner, so maybe? But I think I'll wake up to my alarm clock in the morning.

I just doubt my body knows how to go into labor. Or my kids like staying inside. Either he likes this water bed, where his sister isn't climbing all over him (just all over me). It is warm and cozy, and I get that.

I wish doctors were not so hopeful in saying when they think you will give birth. I remember during Evie's pregnancy that they did this and they are doing it again. At my 37ish week appointment, was talking to the doctor and she said that she thought I would be closer to my due date, most likely earlier. Yeah right.

Maybe this weekend. Maybe. If not Monday is the induction. So at most 4.5 days. I hope this induction goes as fast as Evie's was.

Still Working

Yep, I am still working. Today at 40w4d I am still working. This week I put in a few hours in the office on Monday, and have done the rest of my working working from home. Just too uncomfortable to really want to deal with people. And I can get some stuff done to get this kid out of me...maybe

With Evie I worked till that Friday, 40w2d. So going 2 days longer than I did with her so far. I was feeling bad about not going into the office, but after I compared it to Evie's pregnancy, I realized I am doing pretty good.

I am able to check email, do a bit of work, not walk far to the bathroom, etc. The couch and dining room is much more comfortable than my desk. I can put my feet up, take a break when needed. Perfect for being overdue.

I have given up hope that my body knows how to go into labor. Blah.

Mother's Day Craft Day

So I got 2 crafty projects done on Mother's day and just wanted to share.

I had this canvas painted a while ago. Like over a month ago and was just waiting to put a saying on it. From a fun song by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros "Home". Just love the saying "Home is wherever I'm with you".

So after breakfast on Mother's day, I decided to finally write the words on it. I had a white paint pen to write it out. I first sketched with a pencil, but could not see it much.... Did not space as well as I wanted, but oh well. Then realized I had a huge empty place on the right, so decided to put something there. At first thought an orchid flower. Then thought how about a plumeria. Channeling our honeymoon in hawaii.

Of course I had to do this quickly since Evie wanted to color too. Not the best thinking on my part. Then at one point she got to a marker before I could stop her and did a little color flair on the top left. So she left her mark, whatever.

Here is the finished project. Works well enough and it will grow on me.

When Evie was napping, I decided to work on my ring sling. I got the pattern from slingrings. Specifically used this one. I kind of did 2 pleats for the shoulder to make it small enough. This made it nice and thick which I bet will make it more comfortable and works with my small shoulders. Maybe I'll undo it and fix it one day, but I like how it looks. I have some fleece to add to the tail to make a soft wipe area for drools and such. But was quick to make. The hemming sucked and want to get a hemming foot for my sewing machine now. I also may shorten the tail, but don't want to shorten too much so I can use this as the kid gets older. 

Finished Project - I don't look great - but no make up day. At least I am past the point of what I look like and will post photos online for people without make up!

Still Overdue

Yep still pregnant.

I don't feel that bad in reality. Yes it hurts when I walk. Yes I am uncomfortable, but it hasn't gotten much worse in the past few weeks.

Went to my dancing for birth class last night. I love this class. It is fun to get together with a group of girls, laugh, dance, and have fun! And it has been fantastic in relieving pregnancy pains. I have learned a lot of moves that I hope to use during labor. I recommend this class to anyone pregnant - at any stage of pregnancy! It is a class where we do belly dancing moves, african, hawaiian, and other fun moves. I went to this class before I was pregnant and plan on going back after.

Anyways, was hoping it would help put me into labor. But yep morning came and nope, still home. I am working from home today so I can do some lunges, walk up and down stairs, sit and do moves on the exercise ball, bounce on exercise ball, whatever to get this kid out.

I am already 4cm dilated, so would be awesome to get this kid going. Also today is my sister's birthday. Would be kind of cool to share it with her. Only 16 hours left.

Guess I should change into some yoga pants and get moving! Come baby Come OUT!

40 weeks

How Far Along:
40 weeks - overdue! haha

How Big is Baby and what Baby is up to (baby center copy and paste):
It's hard to say for sure how big your baby will be, but the average newborn weights about 7 1.2 pounds (a small pumpkin) and is about 20 inches long. His skull bones are not yet fused, which allows them to overlap a bit if it's a snug fit through the birth canal during labor. This so-called "moulding' is the reason your baby's noggin may look a little conehead-ish after birth. Rest assured - it's normal and temporary.

 

Weight Gain:

4 weeks and have not gained! So still hovering around 20lbs. 

Best Moment of the Week:
Mother's day. Had fun with Evie and this dude didn't want to come out. 

Movement:

Mostly get stretches lately. 

Belly Button:

Almost fully flat

What I miss:

Energy, getting things easily, not belly getting wet when doing dishes. 

How I am feeling:

OK overall. Really not that bad. But lots of pressure when I stand. So maybe I need to stand and sit on the exercise ball more often!

Cravings/Aversions:

Heartburn has gone down, but eating smaller meals. 

What I am looking forward to:
Having this kid!

Had my 40 week appointment today. Had a cervical check and am 3.5 almost 4 cm dilated. 70% effaced. Cervix is still back, but lots of good progress. And the doctor said I did drop, so should be soon! 

If this dude does not come by next Monday, I will be induced. Hoping it won't come to that, but ok if it does.

40 weeks with this guy:

40 weeks with Evie:

Come Out! Come Out! Come Out!

"Come Out!"
"I'm Done!"

Those are the words I say the most in my head and whisper to myself. Seriously though, I am done!

The past few days have been icky. Moving takes so much effort, especially at night. I have a constant feeling of a stomach bug. Nausea that runs on and off. Loose Stools for a few days. I go pee every 15 minutes. It is just awesome here.

Yes I am still working. I don't want to talk to anyone. Don't have much motivation or concentration. Even though it was August, I think I felt better with Evie at the end than I do with this one. It is the sick feeling that just makes it SUCK. But still at work trying to get things done. I may take off some of next week to rest up a bit. That is if the kid is not here yet.

My appetite is on and off. I blame that on the nausea. Sometimes I want to eat something. Other times just the smell of food makes me want to puke.

Due on Saturday. So I am 39 weeks 4 days today. At the point (I remember doing this at the end with Evie) every time I go to bed wonder if I will wake up in the middle of the night in labor. And am disappointed each morning when my alarm goes off. Will I go overdue? Will this be a due date baby (that would be so cool)?

39 weeks

How Far Along:
39 weeks. Now when someone asks when I am due - I can now say Saturday...

How Big is Baby and what Baby is up to (baby center copy and paste):
Your baby's waiting to greet the world! He continues to build a layer of fat to help control his body temperature after birth, but it's likely he already measures about 20 inches and weighs a bit over 7 pounds, a mini watermelon. (Boys tend to be slightly heavier than girls.) The outer layers of his skin are sloughing off as new skin forms underneath.

Weight Gain:

3 weeks and have not gained! So still hovering around 20lbs. 

Best Moment of the Week:
Hmm... Does this have to be pregnancy related? How about one evening Evie and I were going upstairs. I was carrying her and she told me she liked me. Love is one thing, but like...aww hunny I love/like you too!

Movement:

Slowing as he runs out of room. But still get some dance movements. Seem to be more arm movements than legs lately. 

Belly Button:

Has not changed much this week. So flat/poking out on top and inny at bottom

What I miss:

Bending over to get something. Even bending to get something on the ottoman is difficult. Not to be so exhausted at the end of the day, but that won't come back for a while. 

How I am feeling:

I have energy, but get tired quickly too. Motivation is starting to dwindle. Peeing is increasing. Lots of pain down low. Have to think for a second if I really want to get up. Funny when laying on the couch, I have to do it in multiple steps. First sit up. Second wait for energy/boost to stand up. 

Cravings/Aversions:

Nothing much. Not feeling anything spicy right now, but know that is spawned from killer heartburn

What I am looking forward to:
Giving Birth. Yep that would be it. And really introducing Evie to her baby brother. Watching them interact, grow up together, play, fight, etc. I am realistic and know how my sister and I grew up (now super close). 

39 weeks with Evie:

Thoughts

So my due date is in 9 days. Wow. Single digits. Yes I know this means nothing, but it does mean any day now. I have contractions on and off, and lots of cramping. I have dropped which I never did with Evie! Or at least don't really remembering it. It is funny because when I sit down at work I feel like a guy with how far apart I spread my legs to fit my belly. haha.

But was thinking about when this kid will come. Here are the dates I think he is waiting for:
May 11 - due date, would be cool to come on the estimated delivery date
May 12 - what a great gift for mother's day
May 14 - my sister's birthday - would be cool too

Yes 2 out of 3 of those dates are overdue, but not that bad. And they are cool days :)

So I have 1-2 weeks of work left hopefully. Hope I don't go past 41 weeks. Yes I am working till this kid comes out, would rather spend time with him at home than just sitting around twiddling my thumbs at home.

38 Weeks

How Far Along:
38 weeks. Wow. Cannot believe I am this far and this kid will be born soon!

How Big is Baby and what Baby is up to (baby center copy and paste):
Your baby has really plumped up. She weighs about 6.8 pounds and she's over 19 1/2 inches long (like a leek). She has a firm grasp, which you'll soon be able to test when you hold her hand for the first time! Her organs have matured and are ready for life outside the womb.
Wondering what color your baby's eyes will be? You may not be able to tell right away. If she's born with brown eyes, they'll likely stay brown. If she's born with steel gray or dark blue eyes, they may stay gray or blue or turn green, hazel, or brown by the time she's 9 months old. That's because a child's irises (the colored part of the eye) may gain more pigment in the months after she's born, but they usually won't get "lighter" or more blue. (Green, hazel, and brown eyes have more pigment than gray or blue eyes.)

Weight Gain:

Around 20 lbs still. Was very happy on Monday's appointment that I did not gain a pound.

Best Moment of the Week:
Actually last night I painted my toe nails. Kind of proud of that. It was difficult, but now sporting a fun blue for the non shoe weather we are having!

Movement:

Stretching, punching, etc. Loves to punch me in the crotch lately, or just is lower and snuggling in getting ready for arrival. Very painful at times - the whole lightning crotch idea. 

Belly Button:

Somewhat an innie. Flat on top, somewhat poking out. Did not get this poking out with Evie!

What I miss:

Being able to sit without spreading my legs to fit the bump. I feel like the kid has dropped a ton in the past day since the lower sharp pain and now changing sitting position... It is fun I tell you!

How I am feeling:

OK. I have energy again. Been getting things done around the house. But I waddle. Pee constantly. Have to sit odd since the bump is so low and in the way. Upped my dosage to 2x a day Zantac 150 (was taking 75). And still have a tums in the middle of the night.

Cravings/Aversions:

Ice cream/dairy. Not eating spicy foods at all lately - they give me horrible stomach aches and heartburn. Just not worth it. 

What I am looking forward to:
This kids birthday. Any time now. I would rather you come out than keep punching me in the cervix. Please Please Please

Also wow this pregnancy has flown by. Really has. I packed my hospital bag this weekend - just missing a few key items - undies, makeup, toiletries, cell charger, camera, ipad and charger. I have a list in the kitchen so we can grab last minute items. I did not pack much, since I remember what I used last time. And going more relaxed this time too. If I forget anything, it isn't like we live far away, and Nick will be home for the night with Evie, so he can bring whatever the next day. 

37 weeks

How Far Along:
37 weeks (yep missed updating for 36 weeks)

How Big is Baby and what Baby is up to (baby center copy and paste):

Your baby is now considered "full term," even though your due date is three weeks away. If you go into labor now, his lungs will likely be mature enough to fully adjust to life outside the womb. (Some babies need a bit more time, though. So if you're planning to have a repeat c-section, for example, your practitioner will schedule it for no earlier than 39 weeks unless there's a medical reason to intervene earlier.)
Your baby weighs 6 1/3 pounds and measures a bit over 19 inches, head to heel (like a stalk of Swiss chard). Many babies have a full head of hair at birth, with locks from 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches long. But don't be surprised if your baby's hair isn't the same color as yours. Dark-haired couples are sometimes thrown for a loop when their children come out as blonds or redheads, and fair-haired couples have been surprised by Elvis look-alikes. And then, of course, some babies sport only peach fuzz.

Weight Gain:

Around 20 lbs still. Gaining slightly but not bad at all.

Best Moment of the Week:
Actually last night I painted my toe nails. Kind of proud of that. It was difficult, but now sporting a fun blue for the non shoe weather we are having!

Movement:

Stretching, punching, etc. Yep this kid is more active than I remember Evie being. Movement has slowed and not as active as before - meaning get more stretches than I do dancing.

Belly Button:

Still an innie, but getting nice and flat on the top

What I miss:

not carrying a bowling ball on my pelvis. Every time I stand up I have to pee. Just leaning to get something is difficult. 

How I am feeling:

See "What I miss". I have energy here and there. But get tired out so easily now. No matter how much water I drink I am still thirsty. 

Cravings/Aversions:

Not sure. Ice Cream. And grilling lots of stuff this week since it is so nice out!

What I am looking forward to:
Having this kid. Really any time now. you are more than welcome to come out little dude. We have diapers, clean clothing. Bassinet is together. Swing is together. Just waiting on you. come out come out wherever you are!

37 weeks with this dude:

37 weeks with Evie:

Wow how the bump is very different now. Much lower and not out as much. Interesting. Very Interesting.

Nesting

OK yes nesting has really kicked in.

Saturday - cleaned 2 bathrooms + 1 toilet. did a ton of laundry and put them all away.

Sunday - cleaned the car (vacuumed, dusted, cleaned doors, windows). Washed Evie's and baby's car seat. Washed bassinet and its linens. Brought up swing and bouncy seat, washed their covers. Set up new wine rack to organize wine in basement. Cleaned/Organized linen closet. Shaved my legs. Dusted our room. Put clothing away in baby's room. Got stuff out of there for it to be ready. Setup changing pad.

This morning - took covers off couch to wash and covered the cushions so the dogs don't destroy it.

So kid - so ready for you!

Blah

Today has been a blah day. Don't know what it is but just don't feel 'normal'.

Started the day. Woke up, started to get ready for the day. I had a 1/2 glass of water on my night stand and decided to drink it, you know because I was asleep and thirsty. Normal thought and morning routine right?

Then felt something in my throat and yep the water came up. So odd. Have not had that happen at all this pregnancy. Coughing causing puking - yes. Gagging while brushing my teeth and puking - yes. But not just start to throw up. I do have to say, of all things coming up, water is not that bad. It hydrates, does not sting, and doesn't taste like anything (gag - bile).

Started to feel better, or just forced myself to finish getting ready. Dropped Evie off at daycare and was at work before 7:30. Had a 1/2 muffin and didn't want anything else. Then started to feel more and more nauseous. Lovely. Made a tea and forced myself to drink water. Got myself a ginger ale, that I slowly nursed. Around 12:30 decided, ok I am done, still feel icky, I am going home since I feel like I could puke at any second.

Got home, laid down. Got a bit of a nesting energy and swept and did some dishes. Forced myself to eat some pasta for lunch around 1:45. Drank more tea. Took a shower. Now I am sitting in the kitchen writing this while making stuff to finish the breakfast burritos I started yesterday to freeze for Evie and Nick (I hate hate eggs).

Still feel nauseous. Kinda crampy and going to the bathroom 3x today. And just feeling off and not myself.

I think it is just a bug. I am only 35.5 weeks (hey at this point I can start counting half weeks). So maybe this is something or just a bug. My money is on a bug since I am so doubtful of going into labor before my due date. Kinda expecting to be induced since that is what happened last time. Oh and look another braxton hick contraction.

Blah. Blah Blah Blah.

35 weeks

How Far Along:
35 weeks

How Big is Baby and what Baby is up to (baby center copy and paste):
Your baby doesn't have much room to maneuver now that he's over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds. Because it's so snug in your womb, he isn't likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of times he kicks should remain about the same. His kidneys are fully developed now, and his liver can process some waste products. Most of his basic physical development is now complete — he'll spend the next few weeks putting on weight.

Weight Gain:

I'll stick with last weeks 20 lbs. Will find out at my 36 week appointment on monday :)

Best Moment of the Week:
I do enjoy the movement. And realizing what I was feeling was a foot. Was not able to decipher body parts when pregnant with Evie but now I actually know what is what!

Movement:

All the time. Loves to stretch out, kick, squirm, etc. 

Belly Button:

Innie still :)

What I miss:

Bending over. Having energy. 

How I am feeling:

Tired. Just feelling blah. Nauseous on and off. My cold is going away. Starting to waddle. Lately get a braxton hick whenever I stand. just lovely.

Cravings/Aversions:

Nothing really. Been nicer out and have been enjoying salads.

What I am looking forward to:
Having this kid.

And 35 weeks with Evie:

Wow yes this kid is lower. Loved that I used the same shirt!

34 weeks!

How Far Along:
34 weeks

How Big is Baby and what Baby is up to (baby center copy and paste):
Your baby now weighs about 4 3/4 pounds (like your average cantaloupe) and is almost 18 inches long. Her fat layers — which will help regulate her body temperature once she's born — are filling her out, making her rounder. Her skin is also smoother than ever. Her central nervous system is maturing and her lungs are continuing to mature as well. If you've been nervous about preterm labor, you'll be happy to know that babies born between 34 and 37 weeks who have no other health problems generally do fine. They may need a short stay in the neonatal nursery and may have a few short-term health issues, but in the long run, they usually do as well as full-term babies.

Weight Gain:
20 pounds. Ehh. But doctor says it is looking good.

Best Moment of the Week:
hmm. Not pregnancy related, but Easter with Evie!

Movement:
So So So much! Really constantly pushing against things. Dancing. Punching my cervix and bladder. But this kid is low so not much going on in my ribs yet. I'll take that.

Belly Button:
Innie still :)

What I miss:
Sleeping all night (yep I remember this won't happen for a good year). Not being sick. Talked to my doctor today and she said, yep colds last forever in pregnancy and you continue to catch a different one constantly. lovely. Bending over easily, have not been able to do this for a few weeks.

How I am feeling:
Yep I get to complain.
1. I hate how long colds are lasting and how easily I am catching things. I have always gotten colds easily, and feel like I have something all winter, but this year just sucks. At least *knock on wood* we have not had the stomach bug go through the house.
2. This has to do with #1, and is very embarrassing. Incontinence when coughing sucks. yes I do a lot of kegles (should do more), just not what it was like down there.
3. Night Sweats. They have started. Not every night, but hate waking up in the middle of the night drenched. Lovely. 
4. Waking up in the middle of the night to pee 3-6 times a night. Wonderful, especially when combined with night sweats. Means I get so much uninterrupted sleep. Thank you Evie for sleeping well lately.
5. Back pain. Yep have woken up a few times at night and my lower back is killing me. Doesn't help that a few nights ago while rolling from my left side to my right side  that I pulled a muscle in my top mid left side. Hurt so bad this weekend while out at Target that I had to cut the trip short and came home and had to lay on the couch with a pillow under it to put pressure on it. 
6. Heartburn SUCKS. I take 2 Zantac 75 a day (one in morning one at night). And now at night, I wake up with heartburn. ugh. So much worse than it was with Evie, at least I have not threw up due to heartburn
7. Gag reflex. Yep it is lovely. Have thrown up due to brushing my teeth/tongue. Have thrown up due to coughing too hard. It is great. At least I didn't have morning sickness and this does not happen too often.

Cravings/Aversions:
Pizza. But satisfied that so not much right now. 

What I am looking forward to:
Just wondering when this kid will makes its appearance. I know that it is still early, but I am starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Doctor's Appointment Update:
Had my 34 week appointment today. Went well. Blood pressure was a little high, but is attributed to me waking up with a head cold and full stuffyness. I have my Group B Strep test in 2 weeks, so wondering if I am dialated at all, since the doctor will be in there so might as well check :) Kid is head down, but I have know that for a few weeks since I felt hands low and kicks high. She says that this one should not have to be induced, but I'm not putting my money on it. (I think it is better to prepare for the worst but expect the best). I made all my appointments for the rest of this pregnancy. Wow. 

And pictures!

34 weeks with this dude:

34 weeks with Evie: