Bump Diaries 2.21

So, we've known for a whole week that we're having a boy.  I've settled a little more into that fact.  We went shopping and I got a lot of cute boy clothes, mostly from Goodwill.  I don't see the point of spending a fortune on things they are only going to wear once...

I also got what I think will be my last big round of maternity clothes.  I've been doing pretty good with things I already have.  The clothes I saved have been a life saver.  I really only bought this last round to make me feel pretty.

I've started thinking about the nursery too.  I had all these great ideas for a girl, now I need to shift to something that will work for a boy.  I found a wooden rocking horse from Goodwill for $4.  When you rock it, it's legs move.  I'm going to paint it and put it on a shelf in his room.  I'm going with a vintage look, but now it will be less flowers and more other things.  

We've also started really discussing boy names.  We had two good ones we both really liked before we found out the gender.  Now, I'm not 100% sold on them.  I still like them, but I wonder if there is something better out there.  I also feel like I'll have to see him in order to know.

I feel lots of movement now.  Its strange but comforting, at least I know he's alive.  Sometimes they are really strong kicks that take my breath away.  Sometimes they are little flutters.   Our little man really moves around in the evening when I finally get to sit down after a day in the lab.

The heartburn is still in full force.  And I think I may be one of the lucky pregnant ladies to get hemorrhoids.  Now, I've never had hemorrhoids in my life, so I don't know what they feel like.  But I do know that you can get hemorrhoids while pregnant because of a combination of things beyond your control.  And something doesn't feel right down there.  So far, it's nothing problematic in any way, it would just be nice to not have ONE of the uncomfortable side effects from pregnancy.  Just one.

The other day, I ended up getting really sad about the fact that everyone we know is up in MI and we are alone in FL.  Once again, I feel cheated out of this experience because we live so far away.  I would like to talk to my mommy friends and get ideas and suggestions.  I would like to have my family at the hospital the day after to meet him.  It's scary to be going through this huge life changing event on your own.  I know that Kevin and I can do it, I just wish we didn't have to.  I know that everyone will make the trip down here to meet him as soon as they can.  I just wish it didn't have to be such an ordeal.

Bump Diaries 2.20

The big day!  I've waited 20 weeks to find out if the little bean is a boy or girl.  Longest wait ever.  I took most of the day off of work for it.  I wanted the day to be special and just me and Kevin.  He took the whole day.  He picked me up from work and got me some Twizzlers.  His co-worker said that sugar makes the baby move and we needed the little one moving so we would definitely know the sex.  I was really nervous when we got to the doctor's office for the ultrasound.  We had a little bit of a wait, but not too bad.  I got on the table and she started moving the wand around my belly and showing us the baby.  She pointed out the head and face, then she measured the brain and showed us the kidneys (which we couldn't really see).  She moved on to look at the heart and checked the abdomen.  Then she asked us if we wanted to know the sex.  We both said yes so she moved to find out.  And it was VERY clear when she got there.  It's a boy.  And he wasn't shy about it at all.  I started to cry.  And Kevin took my hand.  I tried to hide the fact that I was disappointed.  I had such strong feelings that I was having a girl, I was sure that she was in there.  Any women who tells you she doesn't care what she's having is lying.  I think every mom has a small idea of what they what.  I'm not going to feel guilty about having gender disappointment either.  I really thought the universe had told me before the ultrasound it was a girl.  It's funny, I wanted boys until I got pregnant.  I wanted the chance to raise some gentlemen, something I feel the world is seriously lacking.  I get a boy, and I immediately get intimidated.  I don't know anything about boys.  They have parts I don't know how to take care of, they like different things.  How will I relate to a boy?  How will be bond?  I'm not super athletic, what if he is?  I like crafts and dancing and dressing up.  He might not like any of those things, which is ok.  He's going to be his own person.  He already has so much personality and he's not even born yet.  He was wiggling so much during the ultrasound, she had a hard time getting good pictures of him.  I softly cried the rest of the ultrasound as she continued checking and measuring everything.  I felt really guilty that I wasn't happy, but I just couldn't help it.  Then, just before she was finished, he flattened his hand right against the probe and waved at us.  My heart sank.  I was a horrible mom again.  Here was this little baby, so excited to be looked at, so ready to be loved and I was upset because it was a he instead of a she.  I started crying more.  He was healthy and strong, what every parent wishes for.  What was my problem?  I was a mess when we left the ultrasound.  I had a doctor's appointment too so I had to sit in the car and compose myself before we went to that.  Kevin tried to make me feel better but it didn't work.  I was just a sobbing, guilty, hot mess of emotions.  When we saw the midwife, she knew right away what the problem was.  She tried to make me feel better, but it didn't work.

 

On the way home, Kevin suggested that we go to Babies R Us and continue registering. We had only registered for a few things that weren't gender specific to get started.  Now, we could register for anything.  I thought it might help to pick things out for our little boy.  Shopping always makes me feel better.  We found some really cute boy clothes and I started to remember that I liked shopping for Kevin's clothes more than my own.  He said "you can shop the same way for the baby.  They just wear a smaller size."  It helped.  I started to get more excited about the little boy that I was going to meet.

 

I called my mom, dad and aunt to tell them the news when we got home.  My dad said that the little guy would play football and basketball but not wrestling, because it ruins your knees.  My uncle said he was ready to have a new hunting and fishing buddy.  My mom and aunt were excited for anything.  It all helped me get things in perspective. 

 

I'm sure that people will judge me for being disappointed.  Those people have either never been in the situation or are just lying to themselves.  I know there are other women out there who where disappointed one way or the other.  Deep down, everyone has a preference.  I also know that that disappointment is completely forgotten the second you see your baby for the first time.  I've been told that as well.  I know that will happen with me.

 

DIY: L&D Cooling Recovery Pads

Another goal I had this past weekend was to make some cooling pads for labor recovery.  I found these instructions on Pinterest and they seemed pretty easy.  The comments also said that they worked really well for some after labor relief.  I got all my supplies from Target and made a few in about 15 minutes.  I decided that the pads I got probably weren't thick enough for the purpose I was going to be using them for, so I only made 6 pads.  I plan on buying bigger ones and making some more before the baby gets here. 

I hope I get to use them, and that they work like I think they will.  You only wear them for about 10 minutes, but hey, every little bit helps, right?

Here are the steps.  Cheers!


L&D Cooling Recovery Pads


Step 1:  Gather your supplies

-large, long pads
-witch hazel
-aloe vera gel (no alcohol)
-foil

You can also add some essential oils like lavender if you want.  I didn't think it was that necessary.  Plus, they are expensive.

Step 2:  Aloe



 Add aloe vera gel to pad. (I'm using the bottles of nail polish to hold down the pad)

Using a spoon, spread the aloe evenly over the pad.


Step 3:  Witch Hazel

Using the same spoon you used for the aloe, pour a spoonful of witch hazel evenly over the pad.  What a minute so it will absorb and not run everywhere.


Step 4:  Wrap and Freeze

I added a small piece of foil under the tabs so they wouldn't get aloe on them.  (This is the part that sits against your pants when you're wearing the pad).

Then just wrap the pad up in foil and store in the freezer until ready to use.  I put a small piece of tape on the open part to keep it sealed. 

Easy peezy!

I'll make sure to update on how this goes.  Not sure I'll be able to use them if there is any tearing or if I'll need them if I have a C-section.

Hospital Bag: Mommy Edition

One of my goals this past weekend was to finish packing my bag for the hospital.  Since I'm 37 weeks, I can go into labor any time now.  I have a tendency to over pack, and I'm sure this is no exception.  It all fits in one bag, including the baby's stuff.  I think I can even fit Kevin's things in there if I really wanted too...

After reading a bunch of blogs about what other mommies packed, and suggestions from my mommy friends and the nurses that taught our baby classes, this is what I decided to take.  Not sure if it will all be used.  I'll be sure to do an update of what I actually needed and what I didn't.

Cheers!


Lets start with the big stuff first.

1. Mini Fans - it's been 90 degrees here in Florida and I doubt it will cool down in August.  These fans might come in handy for mommy and daddy when labor gets really tough.
Update: used a little at the beginning of labor

2. Socks - I'm thinking these are thick enough to double as slippers. And the ones with the face will make me smile when I am in pain.
Update: wore these as slippers after I had the baby and was walking around

3. Tennis Ball - The nurse that taught our Lamaze class said this was good to use as a massager if I have back labor.
Update: Didn't use this, had an epidural

4. Nursing Bras - two sizes. Wearing one of these home.
Update: I did end up wearing these home

5. Sports Bra - bought a cheapo from Walmart to wear during labor and toss after.  I'll have access to a jacuzzi tub, so this will be helpful there.  Not planning on wearing a lot while in labor.
Update: Didn't wear this.  My labor moved quickly to an epidural, so I didn't use the jacuzzi tub

6. Nightgown and Robe - not sure if this will stay in the bag.  It was a gift from my MIL and I really like it, it's so soft.  The light color doesn't seem post pardem friendly, since I'm told I'll be a bloody mess after the baby is here...
Update: I just stayed in the hospital gown the whole time.  It was easier for nursing.

7. Going Home Outfit - loose fitting black dress.  Cuz, you know, the whole bloody mess thing.
Update: Wore this home.  It was too short because I still had a big belly.  I was a little self conscious.

8. Journal/ Pen - I journal.  A lot.  I want to be able to write down everything I remember about Little Man's birthday.  I'll be telling him the story every year.  It's tradition.
Update: Wish I would have taken the time to write, but I was so tired

9. Shower Shoes - just some cheapos from Old Navy
Update: I didn't take a shower


Now the little things...

1. Pads - I know they will give you these at the hospital, but I am picky.  Just wanted to make sure I have something that I like.
Update:  I used the hospital ones

2. Toothbrush and Toothpaste - bought a new one so I for sure won't forget it.  At least I'll have a clean mouth at the end of the day.
Update: yes

3. Tums - I've had such bad heartburn this pregnancy, I don't go any where without these things now.
Update: Didn't need these after labor

4. Cocoa Butter - I've been using cocoa butter twice a day for months to help with stretch marks.  Can't stop now, unless they tell me to.
Update: Didn't use because of the c-section

5. Shampoo and Conditioner
Update: Didn't take a shower

6. E.L.F Face Mist - I can't be without this.  It's very hydrating on the face.  I think it will be nice to spray when I'm exhausted or gross during labor.
Update: Yes!  This was amazing after being in bed for two days.  It was all I could do to move to the bathroom, so freshening up with this was amazing

7. Cleansing Clothes - I'm not bringing my face soap because it's a pain.  Just get these guys wet and you have a soapy towel ready to go!  These are amazing on long flights too.  Just saying.
Update: Yes! It was easy to use when I was in pain and couldn't bend over to wash my face

8.  Breast Pads - in case my milk comes in right when he gets here.
Update: nope

9. Chapstick
Update: Yes!

10. Deodorant
Update: Yes!

11. Q-Tips - I hate wet ears.
Update: Since I didn't take a shower, I didn't need these

12. Hair ties and clips - I have really long hair.  It drives me crazy when it gets in my face on a normal day.  I can't imagine the rage I would go into if I had to fight with it while in labor.
Update: I did end up using these for labor and after.  Once I ran a brush through my hair...

13. Cleansing Towelettes - another thing to help refresh me during labor.
Update: Used after labor

14. Face Lotion
Update: yes

15-18. 5-Minute Face Kit - I want to look some what good for the first pictures with my baby.  This is the bare minimum to give me some confidence.  Loreal BB Cream and concealer for my skin.  Mascara to look awake and some tinted lip balm and gloss.  Not too much, but still pretty.  :)
Update: I used this one day for pictures, but the photographer never came

19. Plastic Bags - (not pictured) to put dirty clothes or shoes in.  Or to carry things out to the car.  It's always nice to have some extra bags in case you need them.
Update:  Both Kevin and I used these

20. Prenatal Vitamins - (not pictured) specifically with DHA for breastmilk.
Update: Nope

21. Brush and Comb (not pictured)
Update: Yes!


I was also told to bring the breastfeeding pillow I would be using at home by a bunch of friends.  After doing lots of research, I decided to go with the My Brest Friend pillow.  It didn't hurt that Babies R Us put it on sale a few weeks ago...

Update: I did used the nursing pillow a lot while trying to get the hang of breatfeeding

I'll also be grabbing some pillows to bring for me and Kevin at the hospital too.  I was told that hospital pillows aren't that comfortable and that the one I'll be delivering at has a shortage.  Kevin will get to spend the night, so he'll need something.  Not that I think we'll be getting a lot of sleep...

36 Weeks

I think I'm taking a bump pic every week now as something to do.  I don't think I'm changing that much.  I'm just ready to be done with pregnancy and this helps me count down.  So here is week 36, mostly because I like my dress. 

Cheers.

Old Navy maternity dress.

 

 

 

 

Maternity Photoshoot

Kevin always has a comment when I want to get professional pictures taken.  He doesn't see the point, especially since we just got a shiny new DSLR camera for Christmas.  But I can't do the things the professionals do yet, so I get help.  I don't think I've spend nearly as much as I could have on pictures.  He's always surprised at the cost and always pleased with the results.  And I like having something to show our kids someday.

I started looking for a baby photographer months ago.  I didn't want to spend a fortune but I wanted to capture that newborn, scrunched up look that's only around for a couple weeks.  And I sure didn't know how to do it myself.  I wasn't having any luck until my coworker mentioned that her wedding photographer actually does babies more than weddings.  So, I checked it out.  And she was pretty good.  We worked out a deal for maternity photos too, which I was excited about because I was going to pass on those to get the newborn pictures (even though I really wanted some nice preggy shots).  

I guess the theme of our little guy's journey so far is the beach.  We announced we were having a baby with a beach pic and now the maternity photos are at Bathtub Reef Beach in Stuart.  I don't think that I will risk his newborn pics at the beach, but maybe 6 months or something?  We'll see.  Anyway, here they are.  I'm 34 weeks pregnant, my ankles are huge, I'm exhausted from walking in the sand, the humidity ruined my hair, and I'm covered in bug bites.  But I love them.  :)

Cheers

Photography by Danielle Love Photography.  If you want to see more pics, we were blogged!  :)

35 Weeks

In case you couldn't tell, the count down is on to the end of this pregnancy.  I have enjoyed the journey up until now.  I think the heat is playing a big role in me being ready to be done.  My next child will NOT be a summer baby, as long as we are in Florida.

Cheers.

Black tank maternity dress from Old Navy.  Kimono, $16, TJMaxx.

Fourth of July

When you're eight months pregnant, special occasions seem to mean something different.  Fourth of July is one of my favorite holidays (right behind Christmas and Halloween).  I love fireworks and BBQs and since my birthday is four days later, I secretly think that all the fireworks are for me too.  Hey, sharing an almost birthday with the greatest nation on Earth isn't bad...

This was how I spent the fourth:

Soaking my giant cankle feet in a warm epsom salt bath.  Kevin forced me to do it and it really helped my feet.  I was doing one every time I felt my feet get tight.  So take note preggy ladies.  If your feet swell up, try this.  It doesn't work miracles, but it will make you feel better.

I did manage to go out to dinner with some coworkers.  I got some really good ribs, grilled shrimp, corn and watermelon.  It was like I was at a real picnic for the fourth.  No fireworks for me though.

Oh well.  Here's to celebrating next year with little man.  I can't wait to see his face for his first fireworks.  :)

Cheers!

34 Weeks

Moving right along.  Only 6 more weeks to go!  Not sure where all the time went.  We're so not ready for this little guy to be here...  Have to put the nursery together and fix up the guest room.  We have everything for the projects, it's just a matter of the energy to move the furniture around.  

The heat is still a problem for me.  90 degrees everyday is rough even if you're not pregnant.  Thank God I work in a lab with a walk in 4 degree.  Everyone laughs when they see me standing in there.  

Cheers!

Maternity jeans, $24, from Zulily and my big shirt from South Africa.