35 Weeks - Surviving and thriving!

How far along?  35 weeks (6/7/12)

Total weight gain:  Up ten pounds total – YIKES (3 pounds in one week)!!!  

  

Size of baby:   Coconut (According to the Bump)

Milestones (What Baby Center Says:):

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 (pick up a honeydew melon). 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.

Maternity clothes?  Yes, but still wearing both maternity and non-maternity.  Today - I am wearing a maternity top (old navy blue top with maternity jeans).       

Food cravings or aversions:  Sweet cravings are up again due to having lots of sweets in the house. 

Sleep:  Sleep has been good this week.  My pillows and I have really bonded and I couldn’t sleep without them!  Still waking to pee at least once and I often I feel like I may not make it…tmi.     

Symptoms:  During the week I felt some pain with sharp pain on my lower back (left side).  I think it was sciatica kicking in).  My legs were so sore as well as my ankles (my left side).  I’m sure this had to do with the birthday party over the weekend.  On Friday I over did it with the cleaning and the baby let me know!  I felt a very hard belly, nausea and general discomfort.  I had to stop.  On Saturday I didn’t over do it because I was afraid of feeling like Friday.  Alex, Vovo and my bestie Maria really helped to get the party set up.  Alex did so much, he never complained of being exhausted, but he must have been.  On Sunday, just standing around all day and attending to guests (and pleasing Anderson) made me so tired!  I was in pain by 9 pm and had to stop.  My legs and feet were so sore (I thought for sure I would have a Charlie horse, but to my amazement I did not!).  My mom took over and got Anderson ready for bed (she is wonderful).  I wish I could have stayed home on Monday, but no dice because we are in the middle of an audit.  I was hurting on Monday, I even took a Tylenol.  As the week progressed the pain diminished and eventually disappeared. 

The pelvis pain is still there but is minimal.  I usually have to hold the belly for a while and it passes.  My sugar numbers are still pretty good (yeah) and the swelling on my feet hasn’t gotten worse (so it’s still there).  I feel tired by the afternoon.  It seems to come earlier and earlier.  I feel great in the morning …but deflated by my commute home. 

On Friday (5/31/2012) I went to Mass General Hospital (Danvers) for a growth ultrasound.  The baby is weighing about 5 pounds 7 ounces which is 59% percentile.  The doctor says that is great!  I was happy.  They did have to zap my stomach so that the baby would wake UP!  They have this device that they place on the belly and it buzzes.  The baby would move its hands after each buzz (the baby is breach again).  Eventually there was enough movement to satisfy the doctor’s concerns and pass the biophysical profile.  I was happy (but still a little concerned that she had to do the buzzing).  Using the buzzing technique prevented the need to go to the hospital for a NST.  Win.     

Tuesday (6/1/12) I had my scheduled Bio Physical Profile (BPP) ultrasound at the OB office (still the same tech).  The baby passed the test!  The baby moved and is laying transverse...so we are breech again!  After the ultrasound I went upstairs to see Dr, Kalinda Dennis (my primary OB).  This appointment went a lot smoother than last weeks (I didn’t wait long).  I feel like this was going to be my last visit with her (since she is leaving) so I basically said good bye.  I told her my concerns with work and my schedule and pain and she wrote me a note to stop working.  Work has been great about me taking time off, but at the same token I wanted a note to validate my absence.  I got the note, but my heart sank with fear at the same time (what is wrong with me, am I crazy?).  I technically can stop working (but I still plan to come in occasionally).  We heard the heart beat discussed what to look out for (for labor) and made plans to see them at the office next week.  All is status quo (blood pressure was good, sugars, protein, heart beat, etc). 

Medications:  Again, my sugar levels have been pretty good all week so there has been no change to my insulin amounts this week!  I remember increasing everyday with Anderson until the end.  Thank you GOD!  I still take 130 units of NPH at night time to help with the fasting numbers (with the goal of having less than 90 for fasting and less than 120 two hours after meals).  I continue to take 40 units of NPH in the morning (before breakfast).  I continue with the glass of milk and the occasional tablespoon of peanut butter before bed.   

I continue with BP medication twice a day (no change).  I have been taking my pre-natal and DHA vitamin with dinner every day (I have been better about not forgetting).  At bedtime I take folic acid every day and Colace (for constipation).  I continue to take calcium chews occasionally.  The iron supplements were doing a number on my stomach so I have cut back to one a day. 

Gender:  Not known.  No change.  I want to know, but I have come this far, why not hold out. We have a name for a girl (the same name we had for Anderson)…Juliana.  As for a boy name…no decision yet.  We have to come to an agreement!  

What I'm looking forward to the most:  My babies meeting and enjoying our summer getting use to our new family dynamics.  I know it will be stressful, but I just want to get this party started!                    

Worries:  Being ready for the birth (including day care for Anderson) and having everything ready at home (bottles, clothes, sleeping, NAME, etc).  Plus I want my sugars and WEIGHT to stabilize.  I think I had too many sweets for the birthday party and gained three pounds in one week, YIKES.   

What is different this time around:  Having a note not to work.  (But I’m still working so not sure what difference it makes).   

Miss Anything?  Some Sangria.  I missed having a glass of wine at Anderson’s birthday party. 

Movement:    I still feel the kicks, but not as much as before.  I still love the kicks, as a reminder to me that the baby is ok.   The baby kicks more at night when I am lying still.  

Labor Signs:  None.  Continue to feel Braxton Hicks (hard belly) occasionally - more at night and when I don't drink enough water.       

Best moment of the week:  Surviving and thriving through Anderson’s birthday party!!!  

Big Brother moment of the week:  Anderson celebrated his birthday this past week and we had so much fun.  I am going to soak him up during these last few weeks I have him to myself.  Anderson didn’t ask to be a big brother, but deep in my heart I know it will be good for Anderson to have a sibling and that family tie.  We (me, dad, vovo) have an over abundant amount of love to give Anderson and he will never be without love and attention (he may not have it front and center 24/7 but he will know love and be taken care of).  I can’t let the mommy guilt monsters convinces me otherwise (I pray for guidance and patience).    

FOUR WEEKS TO GO!!  Two weeks until full term!  Pray, pray, pray for another good week. 

Happy Birthday to my little man...

To my dearest Anderson,

You are the sunshine of my life, I am so much better having known you.  You make my heart burst with love and pride.  Being your mommy is the best job in the world.  Please always be this loving and sweet toward your mommy, ok? 

I want to give you a ton of kisses and hugs on this two year anniversary of your miraculous entry into the world.  You ROCKED my world...to the core. 

Kisses my sweet sunshine.  God loves you, Mommy loves you...life is good. 

Love,
Mommy

34 - Another Awesome week!!

How far along?  34 weeks (5/31/12)

Total weight gain:  Up seven pounds total    

  

Size of baby:   Butternut Squash (According to the Bump)

Milestones (What Baby Center Says:):

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.

Maternity clothes?  I am wearing both maternity and non-maternity.  Today - I am wearing a maternity top (my new blue and white stripes shirt that is super long) and my black non- maternity trousers (they are tight - I will have to unbutton before the day is out).       

Food cravings or aversions:  Nothing this week.  Sweet cravings are not bad.  I have to get the candy out of my house before I cave.

Sleep:  Sleep has been the same this week.  We are in full party mode this week (preparing for Anderson's second birthday party) and there is some stress which is affecting my ability to fall asleep.  There are many nights where I am in bed, exhausted, but still awake...making the same to do list in my head over and over.  I still love my pillows and I notice a huge discomfort without them (like when Alex steals one).  I still wake up once a night (at least) to go to the bathroom.   

Symptoms:  Another good week this week!  I am so happy!!  All I have to say is thank GOD.  I have prayed to keep my body healthy and for my baby to continue to grow and be healthy.  Please GOD, let this be the way for the next 5 weeks!  

The pelvis pain is minimal, the sugar numbers are good and the swelling is ok.  I am definitely exhausted as I commute home.  I am starting to dread the commute home (coming in is not that bad).  I did have Charlie horse pain on my thigh.  It was painful but didn't last as long as the last one...which is good.  

On Tuesday (5/29/12) I had my scheduled Bio Physical Profile (BPP) ultrasound at the OB office.  Still the same tech and she seems to remember me.  All was perfect and the baby passed the test!  The baby's head is down...so no more breech!  Yeah!  {On Saturday (5/26) we were sitting outside in the shade but it was hot out.  I started to not feel well so I left Anderson with Alex and went inside to drink some water and rest.  While I sat there for 20 minutes or so the baby moved so much!!  Then there was this big swig and I swear I could see my stomach move.  It hurt a little bit....I bet that is when the baby moved head down!.  I felt much better afterwards.}  I was happy at the ultrasound that all is well, thank God.  I hope the BPP's all go this well. 

After the ultrasound I went upstairs to see Dr, Gelinas (the wife/female, there is a married couple).  I waited an hour to see her.  They did warn me that she was very behind schedule.  Eventually I had to cancel my diabetes appointment and reschedule.  I waited what seems to be forever.  She said my sugar numbers were good and that I should test more often during the day (same as last week).  I think my sugar numbers are awesome (compared to what I recall with Anderson, I don't recall them ever being stable for fasting).  We heard the heart beat, 151.  My blood pressure is good, no mention of any weight gain issues, no protein in the urine...so good over all.  I had been so flustered waiting that I worked myself up.  I did end up telling her that I am stressed with my work schedule and the constant appointments.  Work has been very good about me working from home, but they can only take so much (and work/bosses have different priorities).  I wanted to know whether or not a note to support a reduced schedule would be something she (or any of the doctors) would give me.  And she said absolutely, whatever I wanted.  I did tell her that I don't feel like I have a bond with any of the doctors or anyone really in the office (as bad as that sounds) because I see a different doctor or nurse every visit.  She assured me that if and when I need assistance and/or a note that the doctors would agree to it.  That was a great relieve.  I was disappointed that Dr. Dennis will be leaving the practice on June 30th.  She will not be delivering the baby.  Bummer.  We still need to plan the C-section.     

I did meet with Dr. Parsegian (the diabetes doctor) this week (5/31-12) who was super impressed with my numbers!  He said I am doing perfect!  He said he wants to see me 6 weeks after the baby is born!!  Wow.  He did say that after the baby is born he will probably suggest I go on metformin.  I guess we wait and see. 

Medications:  Again, my sugar levels have been great all week so there has been no change to my insulin amounts this week!  I am pleasantly surprised (and thanking God all the time).  I still take 130 units of NPH at night time to help with the fasting numbers (with the goal of having less than 90 for fasting and less than 120 two hours after meals).  I continue to take 40 units of NPH in the morning (before breakfast).  I am sure the glass of milk and the tablespoon of peanut butter before bed is helping!  Sometimes I drink just the milk and the numbers are good!   

I continue with BP medication twice a day (no change).  I have been taking my pre-natal and DHA vitamin with dinner every day (I have been better about not forgetting).  At bedtime I take folic acid every day and Colace (for constipation).  I continue to take calcium chews occasional.  The iron supplements were doing a number on my stomach.  I think I am going to take one every other day and then two every other day (at random times [lunch] without other medications).   

Gender:  Not known.  No change.  I want to know, but I have come this far, why not hold out.  But it's decision time. We need decisions made and it is easier if we know the sex…just saying.  Alex still doesn't care (I think he knows). 

What I'm looking forward to the most:  Getting though this weekend with limited stress and exhaustion.  Maintaining good sugar levels and getting through June.  I want my baby in my arms.                    

Worries:  Baby's health, my health and getting through the remaining weeks in good health.  Also, same as last week...Anderson's second birthday party - which is a stress inducer (as much as I try not to let it get to me).  Plus Anderson appears to have a cold, is crying more at daycare drop offs and is getting even shyer around people.  This is going to be a great party.   

What is different this time around:  The sugar levels...I'm so happy right now. 

Miss Anything?  A relaxing drink...I seem to think this every day and that worries me! 

Movement:   Same as last week.  I still feel the kicks, but not as much as before.  I still love the kicks, as a reminder to me that the baby is ok.   The baby kicks more at night.  

Labor Signs:  None.  Continue to feel Braxton Hicks (hard belly) occasionally - more at night and when I don't drink enough water.       

Best moment of the week:  No more breech and my sugar readings.  Also my wonderful friend Dina said that I look like I am glowing and that pregnancy agrees with me.  WOW.  The nurse last week said I do not look 40, more like 25!  Wow I will take it.  I also enjoyed going to mall with my mom to do some much need maternity clothes shopping.  We got a pair of shorts and three tops!  Yeah. 

Big Brother moment of the week:  Anderson will be two year's old on Monday June 4, 2012.  Happy Birthday sunshine.  Anderson still doesn't get it, that a baby will be living with us soon.  I keep telling him.  We talk about baby all the time.  I told Anderson that he is going to be a big brother and he is going to play with baby and teach baby lots of stuff - and Anderson says YEAH...really excitedly.  Ohhhh, be still my beating heart. 

FIVE WEEKS TO GO!!  Three weeks until full term!  Praying for another good week. 

33 Weeks - Moving right along...

How far along?  33 weeks (5/24/12)

Total weight gain:  Up six pounds total    

  

Size of baby:   Durian  (According to the Bump) (never heard of this fruit before)

Milestones (What Baby Center Says:):

This week your baby weighs a little over 4 pounds (heft a pineapple) and has passed the 17-inch mark. He's rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look and his skeleton is hardening. The bones in his skull aren't fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for him to fit through the birth canal. (The pressure on the head during birth is so intense that many babies are born with a conehead-like appearance.) These bones don't entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as his brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.
Also including the Bump this week.... 

Your baby at 33 weeks

· He's keeping his eyes open while awake.

· He's also starting to coordinate breathing with sucking and swallowing.

· His bones are hardening.

· And he going through (more) major brain development -- that's one smart baby!

I am also including a blurb from the:  I.am.pregnant.com at 33 weeks...
This has a lot of detail for the week:
Your baby weighs about 4.4 pounds at this point. The crown-to-rump length of your baby is approximately 12 inches and the total length is around 19.4 inches. Measuring from the top of your uterus to your bellybutton is 5.2 inches. Total weight gain at this point of pregnancy is usually 22 to 28 pounds.

With the exception of crying, your baby is capable of doing everything that a newborn baby will do. Your baby is restricted now inside of the uterus, but still can kick and move. Your baby sleeps a lot of the time, just as newborn babies do. Your baby's eyes move in the manner of REM sleep and researchers believe that babies can dream vividly in uterus. When your baby is awake, she is listening, feeling and learning. There are billions of neurons in the brain that make trillions of connections. Your baby will probably have settled into the birth position by now and your caregiver can most likely tell which way your baby is presenting. If your baby were to be born now, the lungs would probably be strong enough to function properly, but your baby may still need extra care from specially trained doctors and nurses.

Your baby's eyes open during alert times and close during sleep. The eye color is usually blue, regardless of the permanent color as pigmentation is not fully developed. The final formation of eye pigmentation requires exposure to light and usually happens a few weeks after birth.

Maternity clothes?  I am wearing both maternity and non-maternity.  Today - I am wearing all maternity my Black maternity trousers and my light blue maternity shirt.     

Food cravings or aversions:  Nothing this week.  Sweet cravings are not as bad, pretty good actually.
 

Sleep:  Sleep has been pretty good this week.  I still have a hard time falling asleep.  There are many nights where I am in bed, exhausted, but still awake.  I try to read and I succumb eventually.  Lots of thoughts, worries and planning going on in my mind.  I love sleeping with my pillows and I have finally got it perfect.  Ahhh.  I still wake up once a night (at least) to go to the bathroom.   

Symptoms:  Another good week this week!  I will take it!! Yes.  I was so afraid to be in the same pain I was in a few weeks ago.  It may still come, but now it will be for 6 weeks, not 10!!  I am tired by the time I leave work....that has been consistent...but the pain in the lower pelvis is doable (I only feel sharp pains for small periods in the day, not a constant sharp pain like before).  I feel the sharp pains at work (after sitting for a while) and in the car driving.  I hope it stays this way for the next SIX weeks.  Today I had a sharp Charlie horse pain on my upper left thigh.  Painful!  I hate Charlie Horses!!  It lasted about 5 minutes.  I read that if you lift your toes up, the pain passes!  It works!  But I would drop my toes and the pain would return (again and again...this happened a few times)...the Charlie horse needed to run its course.  I guess.    

On Tuesday (5/22/12) I had to my SECOND Bio Physical Profile (BPP) ultrasound at the OB office.  The ultra sound tech was the same (nice to have some consistency).  All was perfect!  I was so glad to go to this appointment because the baby was quiet on Tuesday, with not a lot of movement.  There was no concern from the tech or the nurse.  Must be because we were moving around a lot that day.  Daddy came this time, that was nice!  The baby was way up high, with the head around my belly button and the back/spine on my upper stomach (under my breasts).  The baby is breech, but the tech said it's still early and the baby could still move.  I thought it wouldn't matter (since I will have a C-section), but the tech said it would be good to know the status just in case I go into labor quickly and they can't stop the labor.  I was happy all was well, thank God.  I hope the BPP's all go this well. 

After the ultrasound I went upstairs to see the nurse (Beth).  She was very thorough.  She said my sugar numbers were good, but some were border line high and that I should test more often during the day.  (I think my sugar numbers are awesome).  She asked me to lay day to hear the heart beat...I was glad Daddy was there to hear it as well.  She was able to locate the head on my belly (next to the belly button) and told me to circle her hands so I could feel it.  That was insane.  I had her have Alex try it too.  Cool.  She seemed to be studying my chart as she came in the door.       

Thank goodness everyone seems to be over the flu, cough and breathing issues (me, mom and Anderson).  Yeah!  Lets see how long it lasts.   

My first Non-Stress test at the hospital was a bit stressful!  All turned out ok (which is key), but I was there for three hours!  The nurse was new and had a hard time finding the heartbeat.  She made me nervous. Really nervous.  Then she made me annoyed because she just wasn't getting it and was making me feel like I was somehow doing something wrong (or worse, that there was something wrong with the baby).  By the end I was mad.  There was nurse shift change in between.  The doctor who was on call (Dr. Savage) had to deliver a baby in between.  All factors that delayed my time at the hospital.  My mom came with me and she kept saying - let there be a delay with the staff as long as there are no problems with the baby...we can wait all day.  She's right.  I know.  But I had some plans I wanted to accomplish before picking up Anderson, which I didn't get to do.  Plus they seemed so disorganized.  Oh well.  After I met with Dr. Savage for a few minutes (she treated me like a kindergarten teacher, not very impressed with her) I went over to pick up Anderson at school and we went home.  I was still annoyed though out the evening, but I guess I just have to give my time to the doctors/hospital during these appointments and not make plans.  If this had been morning and I had to go to work...I would have NOT have functioned well.   

I did change my second Non-Stress Test for Friday 5-25-12 to 9am so I could come to work.  Bummer, I had wanted to work from home so that if the appointment was stressful I wouldn't have to drive an hour to work and still be more stressed...we will see how it goes. 

Seeing as I am writing this on Friday (5-25-12) I already had my second BPP.  I should technically wait for next week to document this, but...this week was better.  I was still there for 2 hours, but it wasn't so bad.  I waited a half hour to even get into a room, but the same "new" nurse was there.  Ugh. I was instantly annoyed.  However, she found the heartbeat in about a minute (as opposed to twenty minutes last week).  Then it took another hour and half to do the test and wait for the doctor.  She said my blood pressure was a bit high, but she checked it 3 additional times and it was fine.  Dr. Dennis was on call today (yeah she is my doctor!).  It was anti-climatic since she didn't ask me much...she just said everything looks good and signed off on the paperwork.  (Last week Dr. Savage probed me with lots of questions, no happy medium).  Also, Daddy came and kept me company for the visit.  I think he liked hearing the heart beat but he was bored after an hour or so…

Medications:  There has been no change on my insulin amounts this week.  I am currently taking 130 units of NPH at night time to help with the fasting numbers (with the goal of having less than 90 for fasting and less than 120 two hours after meals).  The numbers have been excellent in the morning!  In the 70's.  I can't believe it.  I think that is awesome, because they have always been in the low 100's.  I am still drinking a glass of milk and eating a tablespoon of peanut butter before bed and I will continue to do so as I believe it is helping with the numbers.  I continue to take 40 units of NPH in the morning (before breakfast). 

I continue with BP medication twice a day (no change).  I have been taking my pre-natal every day and continue to take folic acid every day and on most days I take a DHA vitamin with dinner (I am NOT forgetting as much now).  

I was a bit concerned because I finally got the letter explaining the anemia and instructions to take an iron supplement (from my OB’s office).  Apparently I have to take TWO tablets and I shouldn't take them with my pre-natal.  Nice of the doctor to mention that.  So now I take my pre-natal with the DHA at dinner.  And I take the iron with the blood pressure in the morning and bedtime.  Since I have been constipated and it will only get worse with the iron, I have begun (today) taking one Colace with the iron supplement.  Hopefully that is all I need. 

I continue to take calcium chews, but a little less frequently.  I eat a lot of yogurt and my daily cup of milk may cover me.  Maybe?  I will have to buy more chews...

Gender:  Not known.  No change.  Not feeling strongly either way.    I wish I knew.  I may have to look.  I need to know if I have to think of a boy name, because Alex and I haven't agreed on a name yet. 

What I'm looking forward to the most:  Meeting my baby.  Having a successful 6 weeks.                  

Worries:  Baby's health, my health and getting through the remaining weeks in good health.  We also have a small party planned for Anderson for his birthday - which (as much as I try not to) is stressing me out.  I can't help it, as party planning is not my thing and having people over to the house is always a stress inducer. 

My worrying thoughts in my mind do not seem as bad this week.  I have had a rough "month" or so with my thoughts/feelings/consuming worries.  I feel a lot better this week.  Not for any reason.  Except, I have worried to the point of annoying myself.  Worry does nothing but rob you of your time and peace.  I continue to pray for guidance and peace... 

What is different this time around:  I worried last time and I will worry this time...not much has changed.  I feel a lot bigger this time around and more tired. 

Miss Anything?  A relaxing drink...

Movement:   Same as last week.  I still feel the kicks, but not as much as before.  I still love the kicks, as a reminder to me that the baby is ok.   The baby kicks more at night.  

Labor Signs:  None.  Continue to feel Braxton Hicks (hard belly) occasionally (maybe once/twice a day…longer at night).      

Best moment of the week:  Making it through the weekly Ultrasound and BPP with no issues.  I love the kicks at night, I love talking to the baby and telling him/her that mommy is looking forward to meeting him/her. 

Big Brother moment of the week:  Anderson still doesn't really understand that a baby is coming to live with us.  I am telling him more and more that a baby is coming.  Anderson is all consuming of my time/energy, including planning his birthday party.  I can't imagine loving two little humans as much as I love Anderson...but everyone tells me it will happen.  My heart is going to explode with love!! 

SIX WEEKS TO GO!!  Four weeks until full term!  June 21, 2012 I will be considered full term.  The baby could come anytime after that!  Maybe I will have two June babies!!   

32 Weeks - The calm before the storm...

How far along?  32 weeks (5/17/12)

Total weight gain:  Up four pounds total   

  

Size of baby:   Squash  (According to the Bump)

Milestones (What Baby Center Says:):

By now, your baby weighs 3.75 pounds (pick up a large jicama) and is about 16.7 inches long, taking up a lot of space in your uterus. You're gaining about a pound a week and roughly half of that goes right to your baby. In fact, she'll gain a third to half of her birth weight during the next 7 weeks as she fattens up for survival outside the womb. She now has toenails, fingernails, and real hair (or at least respectable peach fuzz). Her skin is becoming soft and smooth as she plumps up in preparation for birth.

Maternity clothes?  I am wearing both maternity and non-maternity.  Today - I am wearing my Black maternity capris’ and my purple non-maternity shirt with the ruffles.     

Food cravings or aversions: Nothing this week.  Sweet cravings are always lurking waiting to make it self known.  No aversions...I think it is safe to say I have no aversions ever.       

  

Sleep:  Sleep has been Ok this week.  I feel like I have insomnia.  I dream of hitting my bed and sleeping.  Then when the time finally comes, I'm so wired I stay awake for an hour.  Not sure what that is about.  It might be because I have a lot on my mind.  Still sleeping with 4 pillows.  I love it.  I feel all snug as a bug with my pillows.   

Symptoms:  A good week this week ... a calm week.  I do see a pattern, with feeling refreshed in the morning, but by the end of the work day I am tired (sometimes I think I may need to pull over for a nap)!  The pain in the lower pelvis area has been ok and bearable (I hope I didn't just jinx myself).  This morning (5-17-12) I felt some pain in the pelvis...but it has past.  I hope it stays this way for the next 7 weeks.  I have a sneaking suspicion it will not.  

On Tuesday (5/15/12) I had to my first Bio Physical Profile (BPP) ultrasound at the OB office.  The ultra sound tech was the same one I cried to when I had an emergency ultrasound after the OB could not hear the heart beat back in January.  I recognized her, but she did not recognize me.  She asked if I knew the sex of the baby and I said no, so she said she wouldn't even go near the area.  The baby past all the required tests with flying colors!  Yeah.  The baby is practicing breathing!  The baby had the hiccups too.  This is amazing... the tech could see the baby's hair in the ultrasound!  How cool is that?  I know I will not have a bald baby!  So amazing.  I was smiling ear to ear.  The only thing the baby did not cooperate with is showing her/his face.  The baby was way up high and facing my back in the fetal position.  She said everything was perfect.  Thank God.  I was happy. 

After the ultrasound I went upstairs to see the OB (Dr. Coffee).  He spent 5 minutes with me.  There wasn't too much updating since I was just there on Thursday.  He did say my blood work showed I was anemic and for me to take an iron supplement.  I hate to take more pills to cause even more constipation, so he recommended I take a stool softener once or twice a day.  He was happy with the sugar numbers and said they look good, except for the night out to dinner - which was high at 175.  He told me NO pasta nights.  Dr. Coffee, he seems ok.  But I hate how he just looks at my chart as he walks in the door...that is always nerve wracking.     

My cough is getting better.  I still took the nebulizer this week, but have not had to since Tuesday.  I think I may be getting over this cough...but it likes to linger.  Unfortunately I saw that Anderson had a runny nose today.  Lets hope we are not all sick again next week. 

Tomorrow (5/18/12) we will have our first Non-Stress test at the hospital!  I still remember being so nervous when I went with Anderson!  Hopefully all will go fine.  It is the strangest thing-driving up to the hospital by yourself.  I'm so excited to have reached this point!  This is feeling so real now.   

I asked my boss if I could work from home on Fridays.  He's concerned that others may want Friday off and the department would be short staffed.  He asked if I could try to make the appointments later in the day so that I could come in to the office and leave early.  I said I would try.  At this point that seems doable, but I remember with Anderson feeling so overwhelmed that I couldn't come after all the appointments.  I think it is because I was staying late after I arrived.  I will not being doing that this time around.  I will see if I can change some of the upcoming visits and take it from there.  

Medications:  I am currently taking 130 units of NPH at night time to help with the fasting numbers (with the goal of having less than 90 for fasting and less than 120 two hours after meals).  The numbers have been excellent in the morning!  For the past week the numbers have been under 90.  Shocking.  I think it is because I am drinking a glass of milk and eating a tablespoon of peanut butter before bed.  As for the evening, some days are high, but most have been ok.  I continue to take 40 units of NPH in the morning (before breakfast). 

I continue with BP medication twice a day (no change).  I have been taking my pre-natal every day and continue to take folic acid every day and on most days I take a DHA vitamin with dinner (but I tend to forget).   I have also started to take an iron supplement.  I continue to take calcium chews.  

Gender:  Not known.  No change.  Not feeling strongly either way.   

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What I'm looking forward to the most:  Meeting my baby and knowing if it is a boy or girl.  Settling into a routine after the baby is born.                

Worries: Baby is getting tight in the there...hope she is ok.  I just want to get through the last couple of months in good health. 

I can't help but worry and wonder if two will be too much to handle.  Are we in over our heads?  I know it is going to be rough at first, but will we get into a routine.  Is Alex up for the challenges?  Is he working too much, making him too unavailable to his family?  Or am I just needy?  Will two be too much for my mom?  For Me? 

I do feel blessed to be pregnant as there are many people who dream of having one child and can't.  I even wished I could have a third baby...so what is my issue?  I worry.  I can't shut it off.  I wish I could.  I waste so much energy.  I am afraid of the unknown.  Some people thrive on the unknown and have more confidence in themselves.  Unfortunately I do not. 

I have never felt more joy in my entire life since the birth of Anderson.  Somehow being a mom suddenly altered ME.  Now a second pregnancy...and another significant future change.  And I do not deal well with change.  Even little changes.  Every small change in my life is always greeted with an overwhelming sense of anxiety and worry.  Fear is the constant companion of change in my life.  And I don’t know how to fight it.  One step at a time.  I pray for guidance and confidence.   

What is different this time around:  I think about how stressed I got with Anderson around this time.  Especially with all the appointments and insulin.  Since I know what to expect (relatively) I don't seem that overwhelmed YET.  We will see how that goes.  I was looking at some notes and I noticed it was around my 33rd week that leg cramps became an issue.  Lets see...

Miss Anything?  Nothing.    

Movement:   I noticed a significant decrease in the force of the kicks during the day, but still lots of movements.  At night I can still see my belly move.  I love it. 

Labor Signs: None.  Braxton Hicks (hard belly) occasionally (maybe once/twice a day).      

Best moment of the week:  Awesome ultrasound!!   Passing all the test scores and seeing the baby's hair.   Also low sugars in the morning. 

Big Brother moment of the week:  Anderson got a cute outfit to wear on the day he meets his little sister or brother.  I love it.  I wanted to get a matching one for the baby but we did not get it since it says little brother or little sister.     

SEVEN WEEKS TO GO!!  Five weeks until full term!  Exciting times.   

Week 31 (dated May 10, 2012) - Status Quo

How far along?  31 weeks

Total weight gain:  Up two pounds total   

  

Size of baby:   Pineapple in the Belly! (According to the Bump)

Milestones (What Baby Center Says:):

This week, your baby measures over 16 inches long. He weighs about 3.3 pounds (try carrying four navel oranges) and is heading into a growth spurt. He can turn his head from side to side, and his arms, legs, and body are beginning to plump out as needed fat accumulates underneath his skin. He's probably moving a lot, too, so you may have trouble sleeping because your baby's kicks and somersaults keep you up. Take comfort: All this moving is a sign that your baby is active and healthy.

Here is the BUMP for this week (I can relate):

Welcome to week 31. Can you believe all five of baby’s senses are fully developed? He also keeps getting smarter. That’s probably good to know, since you might actually feel a little dumb. You’re not! It’s just that many moms-to-be find themselves acting absentmindedly during the third trimester. Some say that “pregnancy brain” isn’t a proven physical ailment, but can you think of another time in your life when you’ve had more on your mind than now? We’re guessing no. That right there is enough of a reason to be so forgetful. From 31 weeks on, you’re bound to feel a lot of the same symptoms -- some may get worse, some may become bearable. And you might start to have more trouble getting around as you get heavier and feel more and more short of breath. Remember not to push yourself too much. It’s good for you and baby to get some exercise, but definitely take breaks to rest as much as you need

Maternity clothes?  I am wearing both maternity and non-maternity.  Today - I am wearing my Khaki capris’ and brown short sleeve shirt (both maternity).   

Food cravings or aversions: Nothing this week.  Sweets seem to be calmer (thank goodness).  No aversions...     

  

Sleep:  Sleep has been Ok this week.  I have been sick with bronchitis so I have had difficulty. 

Symptoms:  No major symptoms this week.  Just tired and that is mainly due to me coughing and having difficulty breathing due to a cold/cough congestion.  The pain in the lower pelvis area is more so in the late afternoon, but not bad this week.  I will take it!  I hope it stays this way for a while! 

On Tuesday (5/8/12) I had to visit my PCP because I was coughing a lot and having difficulty breathing.  I literally had to sleep sitting.  I was so exhausted.  She determined I have bronchitis and told me to use the nebulizer with asthma medication (no steroids) and take some antibiotics (AND to rest a lot). 

I met with the nutritionist on Tuesday and she was happy to see I had not gained weight.  She suggested I eat tic tacs when I get the urge for sweets!  She said no further appointments were necessary but I could schedule something in the future if needed.  

On Thursday (5/10/12) I met with the OB (Dr. Coffee).  He was ok.  Not overly personable. He looked at my chart as he entered the room.  That is troublesome.  They assess on the spot.  He asked me about my sugars and how I am feeling.  One thing I wasn't expecting was for him to say you are on insulin in the morning and at night - that's it?  Last time (with Anderson) when I doctor looked at the chart he said that is a lot of insulin which made me so nervous.  The OB also looked at my age, confirmed I was having a scheduled C-section and advised me to think of having my tubes tied if this would be my last baby.  I asked how much longer the surgery would be, and he said 5 minutes.  He said this is commonly done and an easy procedure.  Something to think about.  Not sure why, but him saying that I am turning forty and suggesting the procedure made me sad.  It is reality though.  I wanted more kids, but I feel too old and too unhealthy to have more (not to mention poor).  We heard the heartbeat and it was wonderful.  The doctor found it with no trouble and no heavy prodding (unlike the nurse last week).  Hurray. 

The OB also scheduled routine blood work (to check for anemia, the paperwork said CBC).  So after my visit with the OB I went to the lab.  I was so upset when the blood drawer asked me if I was having twins. I said, no I am just a big girl.  You would think she would have more tact.  That's so rude. 

The weekly Bio Physical Profiles are set for every Tuesday at the OB office (at 3:30) and Non Stress Tests are set for Friday at the Birthplace (at 2pm).  I will also have OB appointments every week.    I still need to schedule a meeting with my boss and request to work from home on Fridays.  I hope he agrees as this is when I got overwhelmed, exhausted and extremely emotional when pregnant with Anderson.    

Medications:  I am currently taking 130 units of NPH at night time to help with the fasting numbers (with the goal of having less than 90 for fasting and less than 120 two hours after meals).  The numbers are ok.  Some days are high, and then other days are low.  I continue to take 40 units of NPH in the morning (before breakfast). 

I continue with BP medication twice a day (no change).  I have been taking my pre-natal every day and continue to take folic acid every day and on most days I take a DHA vitamin with dinner (but I tend to forget).   I continue to take calcium chews.  

Gender:  Not known.  No change.  I'm sick of thinking about it.   

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What I'm looking forward to the most:  Holding my baby and knowing all is ok with him/her.                

Worries: Getting too huge and becoming disabled.  The effects on Anderson, Alex being a good dad, me being a good mother/wife, the future...same ole stuff!  Party planning for Anderson's 2nd birthday has consumed my thoughts.   

    

What is different this time around:  Not really doing much in preparation for this baby.  I did put a list together and we do have to get some stuff done...in due time we will be scrambling with this baby...

Miss Anything?  Went out with the girls on Friday (5/11/12) and I would have enjoyed a drink.  Oh well…soon enough.  I feel like an alcoholic always missing the booze.  Go figure. 

Movement:   Lots and lots and I love it.  I love seeing my belly move!  I tried to have Anderson feel it but he wouldn't sit still long enough.  Even Daddy doesn't sit long enough (too bad).  I think it is the most amazing thing!!  I will miss this when the baby is too big to move around (which I believe is coming soon). 

Labor Signs: None.  Maybe one Braxton Hicks (hard belly) this entire week.  Nice!    

Best moment of the week:  At night time when the baby is really active.  There was one day at night where I swear my belly did a rattle and roll that was so insane.  I loved it.   

Big Brother moment of the week:  I told Anderson that the baby was coming to live with us and he replied very excitedly and said Yeahhhh.  He said the baby is coming from the sky.  So cute.   

EIGHT WEEKS TO GO.  Keep growing my fruit....

30 Weeks - Quiet Week

How far along?  30 weeks

Total weight gain:  Up Five pounds total     

  

Size of baby:   Cucumber (According to the Bump)

Milestones (What Baby Center Says:):

Your baby's about 15.7 inches long now, and she weighs almost 3 pounds (like a head of cabbage). A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds her, but that volume will decrease as she gets bigger and takes up more room in your uterus. Her eyesight continues to develop, though it's not very keen; even after she's born, she'll keep her eyes closed for a good part of the day. When she does open them, she'll respond to changes in light but will have 20/400 vision — which means she can only make out objects a few inches from her face. (Normal adult vision is 20/20.)

A head of cabbage looks so much bigger than a Cucumber!!
Maternity clothes?  I am wearing both maternity and non-maternity.  Today (Friday May 4, 2012 - I am wearing regular clothes, but my pants are unbutton.)   

Food cravings or aversions: Sweets.  Seems a bit better this week.  No aversions...     

  

Sleep:  Sleep has been Ok this week.  The trouble has more to do with Anderson not sleeping well, not this baby!!   I still have all my pillows!

Symptoms:  After the past two weeks, I needed a good week and this was a good week.  Thank goodness.  I still had some pain in the lower pelvis area, but not too much and not for too long.  Thank God. 

On Tuesday (5/1/12) I had a series of doctor appointments.  I had my regular OB weekly appointment.  We heard the heart beat.  She (the nurse practitioner) had a hard time finding the heart beat, but she eventually did.  She was heavy with the wand.  It's funny how some doctors have a gentle touch and some stab you with it.  She was a bit wishy washy with some of her comments and not too sure what the next steps were.  She wanted to set up the Bio Physical Profiles (BPP) - weekly ultrasounds to check for any issues with the baby - beginning in two weeks.  I had them at Mass General last time, so I presumed they would continue there.  NO.  They do it in the OB office now.  We also need to set up Non-Stress Tests (NST) with Salem Hospital's Birthplace (also to start in two weeks).  The NST checks the activity of the baby and the contractions.  I also need to continue with my weekly OB visits.  So we are talking THREE appointments a week.  This is going to be hard.  I would be freaking out if it were not for the fact we did the same schedule with Anderson.  The BPP and the NST should be a few days apart so the monitoring will be stretched during the week.  We will see how the schedule goes.  I'm hoping to work Tuesdays from home (and have the BPP at 3:30 after my mom gets home) and work from home on Fridays (with the NST at 2pm).   We will see if that happens. I will schedule a meeting with my boss next week to keep him up to date.  

Another appointment on Tuesday was for the Diabetes specialist and he said I am doing very well.  He altered the medication a little.  He told me to schedule another appointment in one month (I thought that was far).  I will continue to update him on any significant updates via the patient gateway and my weekly OB visits.   

Lastly we had a Sizing ultrasound at Mass General Hospital to check the growth of the baby.  Baby is at 3 pounds 5 ounces - 55 percentile.  All appears to be well.  I am so happy!  I thought she was going to tell me the baby was in the 100th percentile!!  I feel so big.  We scheduled a sizing ultrasound for June 1, 2012 (and confirmed that the BPP should be handled at the OB office).   For the first time I was finally ok with this doctor (I still prefer Dr. Barth).   All in all a good Tuesday! 

Medications:  I am currently taking 125 units of NPH at night time to help with the fasting numbers (with the goal of having less than 90 for fasting and less than 120 two hours after meals).  The numbers continue to be on the higher side, especially at night (after supper).  I have increased the NPH units in the morning (before breakfast) to 40 (as per my doctor appointment on Tuesday). 

I continue with BP medication twice a day (no change).  I have been taking my pre-natal every other day *(or just half a day) and continue to take folic acid every day and on most days I take a DHA vitamin with dinner (but I tend to forget).   I started to take some calcium chews. 

My breathing is good but I feel a cold coming on and I am congested.  I may need to up my inhalers this weekend.       

Gender:  Not known.  Again, I really want to know so I could do some finalizing (names, clothes, sleeping arrangements).  I have no strong feeling either way.  I wish something would come to me, but I have no motherly intuition.  I guess I feel more toward a girl because I am feeling a lot more kicks than I did with Anderson.  Or maybe it is because I want that mother/daughter bond I have with my mom.  In the end I want a health baby, so it doesn't matter. 
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What I'm looking forward to the most:  Holding my baby and knowing all is ok with him/her.                

Worries:  The effects on Anderson, Alex being a good dad, me being a good mother/wife, the future...same ole stuff!   

    

What is different this time around:  Not seeing Daddy Nest.  He was super hyped up to have everything prepared for Anderson.  Not this time. 

Miss Anything?  No.   

Movement:   Lots and lots and I love it.  Sometimes the movements are a little softer but I still get some kicks and I love it.  I had the lap top on my belly the other day and the baby must not have liked it and I felt the hardest kick!  Hee Hee.  Also Anderson had a hard time sleeping so we slept on the recliner and after a while the baby was kicking up a storm.  I eventually had to go to the couch because my belly was starting to hurt.   
   

Labor Signs: None.    

Best moment of the week:  The ultrasound at MGH, when the doctor said all was good.  Also feeling the baby kick while Daddy was getting his US citizenship papers!  That was fun. 

Big Brother moment of the week:  Anderson grabbed his Elmo and brought it to my belly to give Baby a kiss.  Totally unprompted.  I loved it! 

NINE WEEKS TO GO. 

24 month - May 2012 - Almost TWO

Dear A,

Happy Birthday Bubba Boop.  I love you more than anything in this life. 

My life changed for the better on June 4, 2010.  I didn't realize it then, but now I know I am different human being.  I am better because of you.  I love being your Mommy and I love you insanely.  Thanks for making this the best time of my life.   

Happy last monthly birthday of your ONE's.  This is the last month we can say - "he's one."

I love you so much Sunshine.  

Love
Mommy