Old Eggs, New Baby

Sounds of the sea

2009-11-26T16:04:00.000-06:00

Lately, Ivy has been making these high pitched, ear splitting dolphin like sounds. She seems to be really happy about it and she isn't screaming so we are ok with this. She does still scream an abnormal amount of time during the day, but this dolphin sound has recently come about and is pretty funny. The screaming, however, is really getting old, it exhausts me. Screaming from 5 til around 7, when I lay her down in her snugly gown and shut her door. She falls asleep immediately. I get her up around 9 and feed her and back to bed she goes. She then sleeps all night. Around 530, or so, we hear her singing in her crib. She is apparently summoning the dolphins.

Why, baby, why?

2009-11-25T22:16:00.000-06:00

For a week, we had cousins in from Seattle. An 8 and 5 year old. It was interesting because we rarely have any people at all in our house for any given time. It was noisy and chaotic. Ivy slept all night, every night. Would go to bed at 9 or so and sleep til 7. How does this work? Cousins left and she was back at getting up at 330. Last week, we welcomed another guest. At 9 or so, Ivy goes to bed and around 7, she gets up. Wow! I am liking this sleeping through the night deal. My boobs are even used to it. My question is, when our guest leaves, will she go back to getting up early? I don't think that I am going to like that much. Maybe I should make him stay so I can sleep all night.

More chatter

2009-11-24T07:23:00.000-06:00

Mia comes over to sit by me while I'm nursing. I am expecting a "boob" comment or maybe even a song. Sometimes, she breaks out the camera from my cell phone and does her own little photo session of the whole nursing experience. Thankfully, she is not YouTube literate, or I'm sure I would be splashed all over the Internet. Anyway, she looks up at me lovingly, and while stroking her baby sister's head, says, "I don't want you to have any babies." I tell her we are done with having babies. She further explains that she doesn't want Ivy! I ask her is she loves Ivy and she says she does, she just doesn't like it that Ivy wakes her up at night. Too funny!

Chatter

2009-11-24T07:22:00.000-06:00

Yesterday afternoon, Mia and I were cuddling under the covers at naptime. She was worn out from playing in the snow and sledding and I was, well, just worn out. Ivy sleeps pretty well, usually 4-5 hours at a time. I am thankful for this but it doesn't mean that I'm not tired. Anyway, Mia is holding my hand and asks me if on Monday we can have another baby?!? Um, no. She explains that she loves her baby sister so much and loves to help give her a bath. Good reasons, but I don't think that there will be any more babies. For one, I did have my tubes tied. Two, I am going to be ancient when the girls graduate college and start their own families. Plus, I would like to get some sleep someday. I told her that our baby days were done and to please go to sleep. I love that crazy, little girl.

Boobs

2009-11-23T10:34:00.001-06:00

I know there are men obsessed by boobs. I never thought that I would become obsessed with them. Because I didn't nurse Mia, I had no idea what it would entail. Nursing Ivy, while fairly easy, has given me anxiety. For one, my boobs are huge and heavy. I swear that they must weigh 100lbs. each. When they become engorged, I feel horrible, like they are going to explode and spray milk all over the walls. I have, in fact, sprayed my poor baby in the face numerous times. It seems like my left boob is the rogue sprayer, always full and ready to go. It sucks, and I hate to say that since it is pretty cliche. Anyway, I have to pad up numerous times a day to prevent leaking, it isn't like I am embarrassed because I don't go anywhere for anyone to see the milk spreading across my shirt, it is just I hate to have that wet feeling and I only have so many bras I can change into. I have these pads called Lily Pads. They are more like big bandaids. I haven't used them because they use adhesive to stick on and that is a bit unnerving. I can't imagine having to tear one off my boob, like some kind of huge bandaid, yanking off delicate skin. Maybe I will get brave, sometime. My time of blogging is now done, as my little baby is crying. Wonder what she wants?

Sick Baby

2009-11-22T07:57:00.000-06:00

Ivy is almost a month old and already we have been to the ER. She is so congested, coughing, sneezing and gagging. I am leery of RSV, so we packed her up and took her to the hospital. We didn't have to stay too long because Wesley has a pediatric ER now. Everyone was really helpful and fast. Everything looked ok but she does in fact have bronchiolitis. It was a rough night eating and sleeping. I feel awful that she feels so bad.

Some pictures

2009-11-21T10:01:00.000-06:00

A Baby Story

2009-11-20T20:27:00.005-06:00

Cue the baby music, I am going to tell my story of the birth of little Ivy Paige. I had a C section. That is all...

Ok, there is more. This is the loooonngg version, so bear with me. At 11am, 13 January, my mom and I headed to the hospital with my dad and Mia following. I am thinking that I will park in the spots marked for laboring moms. I know, I know, I was scheduled for a C section, but I was having real contractions and I knew the car would be moved within a couple of hours anyway. Well, my dishonesty caught up with me and we couldn't find a space. I drive around and finally go up the wrong way and park close enough so that I am able to waddle with some success to the entrance. The group heads up to the second floor and I check in, giving the woman 12 pieces of ID and insurance info and head to the waiting room to, you know, wait.

A nurse calls me about 20 minutes later. It was go time. I got in my fetching gown, which Mia has declared, "beautiful." I pee, get my IV and have to answer the same questions, asked by 3 different people. I love interns, residents and all of the other people that should have just listened to the nurse when she asked the questions. I meet the whole gang of people that are going to witness the birth of the little bun. The resident, Dr. Keys, is described by that guy I married, as a "hottie." Just what I need when I am 39 weeks pregnant and looked like a beached whale. I think she sucks.

The nurse comes back and says Dr. D is still attending a birth at St. Joe, so we are in a holding pattern. I guess I can wait, some poor woman is actually laboring and I am sitting pretty in a birthing bed, that seems to want to eat me. I ask if we can change the angle I am sitting at. The nurse is fine with that and hits the button to fix me up. The bed clearly has a mind of its own. Immediately, my legs are thrust into the sky and my head is dropped! Hubby is a little shocked, as am I, as is the nurse. She calls the move something that sounds like a trapeze routine. A backwards something or other. Fix me!

Around 2pm, we get the go ahead to drive me down to the meat locker they call an operating room. Dr. D is there already and apologizing. It is ok, I am in the zone of concentration of all the stuff that I am about to endure to free the bun from her warm little place. I explain to whoever will listen that I prefer to be informed about every little step in the process. I am weird like that but I don't like surprises. My teeth are chattering because I am not only freezing, but am afraid. Not that I really know what is going on anyway. The anesthesiologist explains everything and soon I am pricked by the "bee sting" that lets me know I will be numb in about a minute. Soon, I can't move my legs, yet they are demanding I switch beds. Um, ok. I lumber over and get comfy. The nurses count their instruments. Nice, at least I know they are looking out for me. I don't even want to know how much stuff they have to use to get the bun out.

I am mostly numb, the anesthesiologist is poking with his little claw, and they get right to work. The nurse takes a razor over my unmanicured lawn and then proceeds to remove the clippings with a rather HUGE piece of tape. Um, I am not totally numb and feel the yanking of the delicate skin of my lower regions. OUCH! I am finally numb and trying to move my legs. I don't know why, I know they aren't going anywhere. Dr. D and his wench resident get to work, getting things open and ready to lift the little bun out. There is alot of tinkering and chatting with the senior anesthesiologist. He is a nice, older guy with the gayest laugh I ever heard. The resident anesthesiologist is attending to my blood pressure cuff, which is killing me! It is literally cutting off my circulation and hurts more than anything that I have endured thus far. I mean, poking me in the back hurt waaayy less than this dumb cuff. Plus, my blood pressure is 155/100. What the heck, I haven't had a single problem with this until now? I can hear my heart rate drop and they ask me to take a deep breath. I would like to but all of my breath is escaping in that cuff. I endure the pain, thinking that the cuff will probably have to be cut off my arm or maybe my arm will be left dangling off the machine. I get a baby and it cost an arm, not an arm and a leg, just an arm. I am left with a ring around my arm of blood blisters.

After messing around in my tummy, I hear the familiar liquid sucking and know the bun is ready for her appearance. I am ready. Dr. D bends waayy over and lifts her out. I think he may be standing on a stool even. Who knew she was a couple of stories down? Ivy is lifted out and I hear, "Oh, my God!" This isn't something you want to hear, what were they talking about? The resident then says, "Look at all that hair!" She clearly had a little bit of hair. I still can't see her. She is whisked off by the nurse for all the necessary baby tests. She is weighed and measured, 7.2 lbs and 18 inches long. It is amazing what 2 weeks can do. Mia was 37 weeks and 5.2 lbs. I had given birth to a brute! Ivy had a little wig of dark brown hair. Hubby told me that while she was being weighed, she tried to climb out of the scale?!? She is a brute! Anyway, I didn't witness this so I am a bit skeptical. I am desperately wanting to hold my newest edition but my beloved won't give her up to me! Of course, I am laying, paralyzed on a bed with nothing to support me. He hands me the camera to see her. What the heck? He doesn't want to give her up. I don't remember at what point I get to hold her.

I am taken back to my room. I am woozy and need a long nap. Instead, I watch my family hold Ivy, while I am prodded at again. I am soon transferred to my new room. Hubby and I tune into the first night of American Idol. I am in and out of consciousness. Ivy's daddy holds her forever. I tell him he doesn't have to but he says, "She's new here." Very cute. It is adorable to see him hold the tiny bun, all swaddled like a tiny pink and blue burrito. Eventually, twelve thousand people come into to prod at me again. They want to know my pain levels. Who can say how they really feel at 430 am? Rate my pain? I can't move my legs, can't pee, am bleeding and my husband is snoring like a bear. My pain is high, can you give him something???

I am eating way more than ever. The food in the hospital isn't as bad as I remember, at least I get to order what I want. I drink multiple pitchers of water per day, plus juice, tea and whatever else they will bring me. They have these yummy breakfast sandwiches now too. Anyway, the food didn't make me sick but something did.

On Thursday, I am struck with horrible diarrhea. I am still having trouble getting around comfortably. This tube tying wasn't as easy as described. I am in terrible pain and am bloated like a dead cow. It is bad enough that these things are going on but this trying to run to the bathroom while I am in pain isn't cool. I tell the nurses and get some meds for the new problem. It takes over 2 days for it to kick in. By then, I have been up and down so many times that my pain level is at an all time high. I might as well lay in the bathroom. After a couple of days, I am constipated.

I have visitors off and on and am grateful. I am lonely for my husband, daughter, who is sick and my bed at home that isn't covered with plastic and makes me sweat like a beast. I d0n't watch TV and am not interested in reading. I sleep alot. My eyes seem to wander in different directions and I am dozing while I am trying to do different things, including hold Ivy. That isn't good so I have to deposit her into her little bed and hope she is sleepy also.

Everyone is sick in my family, so I have little in the way of visits from them. Mia is refusing to eat, everyone is coughing and wheezing. Stay away. I am lonely but I don't want Ivy to get sick.

On Thursday, my milk comes in. My boobs swell to 3 times their normal size. They are hard and look fake. I would like to give them back. Surely, someone wants to have huge breasts, just not me. Ivy's latch is poor, and given that I have no idea what I am doing, we are flailing. I soak breast pads in record fashion. Good lord, this sucks, literally. I'm happy to report that Ivy now latches like a champ and sucks like there is no tomorrow. Sometimes I want to hire a wet nurse. I am still soaking alot of things, like towels, bras, shirts, the Boppy, burp cloths, blankets as well as my little daughter.

I am ready to go home. It is Saturday, we have been in the hospital since Tuesday. The resident has tried to kick me out 3 times. Dr. D doesn't concur with her dismissal instructions so I wait it out. Finally, Dr. Jensen tells me to get out. I get dressed, get Ivy ready and wait for the pediatrician to release Ivy. We roll out of the hospital with a new baby in the backseat and a bunch of concerns. What am I doing with a baby? How do I take care of a baby? How can I balance my life? I am doing better now, but still have questions about alot of things. Every day gets better.

Some things I have learned since 13 January

2009-11-19T21:04:00.001-06:00

Some random things I have learned since having Ivy Paige.

Male doctors don't know shit about the pain of having your tubes tied.

I was clearly a cow in a former life.

The leaking may eventually stop but until then milk is on my shoes, on the floor, on my pillow, on the walls.

Women don't generally get diarrhea after childbirth.

Explosive diarrhea, when you can barely walk to the bathroom isn't a good thing.

Once the diarrhea is over, you get massively constipated.

Constipation, when you can barely walk to the bathroom isn't a better thing.

Hospital sanitary pads are so big but don't stay in your fancy mesh underwear.

This isn't mesh underwear that your husband would find the least bit sexy.

Drugs "are" good.

There are alot more good shows on tv when you are taking Morphine, Percoset and Motrin.

Your eyes don't necessarily have to be looking in the same direction.

Hospital food has gotten some better.

Blue eyeshadow is considered acceptable for nurses.

People think hospital rooms are great for parties.

It isn't fun to sleep on a plastic covered bed.

Taking a shower when there are 6 drops of water and the shower head is 3 feet off the ground is not particularly refreshing.

Anyone can come into your hospital room and ask to see your incision, and you have to comply.

The resident can dismiss you 12 minutes after birth, but the "real" doctor calls the dismissal shots.

Pregnancy is a wonderful, miraculous thing. A baby is a true gift from God.

Hmmm, 0 days left

2009-11-19T02:08:00.000-06:00

Yes, we are done with tickers, countdowns and all of that other business. I sit here, at 208 am and ponder the day's events. I am snacking and drinking, something in that in a few short hours, I have to cease in order to have an empty stomach for my C section. It's ok, I am going to be nervous and busy finishing everything up, so food will probably be the last thing on my mind. I am nervous, as I said. Surgery is no fun. Having your 4 year old freak out because they are wheeling you away, is no fun. Having someone stick a needle in your back, is no fun. Having someone slice open your stomach, is, once again, no fun. Waiting to see if your baby is ok, is no fun, and yet it is continuously on my mind. There are so many emotions, good and bad, that are surfacing right at this moment. How can I do this again? How can I make sure that I can spend time with the family, take care of the new baby and take care of myself, all while getting a bit of sleep each day? I don't know the answers yet, but hopefully will reach some kind of point where I can juggle everything. There are people that do it, of course, some have 4 kids, some have 18, but every mom is different. Sure, we can receive alot of encouragement but sometimes, sadly, it isn't enough and the feelings of dread become overwhelming. This is where I sit, right now. Hoping and praying that I can do what is right for everyone, without losing myself.

1 More day or today?

2009-11-18T09:26:00.000-06:00

Last night, I got up around 23o with some vicious pains. I came downstairs to try and stop them. They didn't stop. I Googled contractions and found that, yes, I was having "real" contractions. I couldn't time them, there were alot of them but not long, maybe 10 seconds tops. I went back to bed and took a catnap. I called the doctor's office and he said go to L and D if they got worse or I could come into the office at 1 to get checked. Wow, I don't know which sounds more fun, but I opted for the office. We'll see...

5 days

2009-11-07T07:18:00.000-06:00

I have 5 days left til Ivy is here. I am not counting Tuesday, I can do that because I rounded the numbers and it is my baby. Anyway, I am thinking the last few days will be worse than all of the past days combined.

I am not sleeping. Ivy is clearly a gymnast in training and is practicing relentlessly on my innards. It does not help that I am also having those non-labor contractions. I figure my cervix is about a negative 10, if that it possible. I guess it wants me to have a longer gestational cycle than the average woman, or maybe elephant. So, with everything locked up, I am still waiting.

Everything hurts. Everything. Even my arms hurt. My nose is full of crap. Speaking of crap, I spend more time in the bathroom then someone that just ate at Long John Silvers. I think I am having a pre-birth cleanout. I'm glad, I feel some better then I did with the massive clog that seemed to ravage me for months. Between number 1 and number 2, I spend most of my time waddling to the bathroom only to figure out how to sit on the toilet. I told you this last few days were fun.

I am pretty happy that I get a little baby out of this! Watch out world, here she comes! Well, at least in 5 or so days.

Last doctor visit

2009-11-06T15:08:00.000-06:00

Today was my last visit with Dr.D before Miss Ivy makes her debut next week. I have been feeling about the same, lousy. I have to truck out to the west side to see him and by the time I get there, I feel like I am going to burst. Too much to drink before the long ride. I am being fit into the schedule, so I know that I am going to have to wait. I sit, squashed in this little chair, while the receptionist questions me about my parents. Apparently, she went to high school with them and wanted to chat in depth about it, no matter that I have a 42lb baby sitting on my innards. I look so bad that a when a nurse comes out, she asks if I am ok. I'm sure that I am making the much less pg girls in the office nervous. Hee, hee. I am thinking of yelling that my water has broken and the head is coming out, but I think better of it.

I finally get my turn, get in the sheet and wait to get probed. No changes. No nothing. HUMPH! I am perturbed but there is nothing I can do til next Tuesday. Ivy's head is apparently lower then last week, don't I know it?

The nursery is ready and so am I!

Good Lord!

2009-11-05T12:13:00.001-06:00

I'm so big, I'm blocking out Mia!

Dilated to 4? Are you kidding?

2009-11-04T05:59:00.000-06:00

Yeah, I am kidding. Yesterday was my next to the last appointment with Dr. Depew. Because I felt pretty nasty on Christmas and have been experiencing more frequent contractions, I got the bonus of not only peeing on my hand but being checked again this week. He felt, ha, ha there might be something going on up there that should be probed. The nurse handed me the sheet and off they went to disturb some other poor woman.

I sat on the table for 20 minutes reading about Nicole Ritchie's baby. Ah, how sweet. I bet she has a nanny. I glanced at the article about Angelina and how svelte she is, even after recently giving birth to twins. Yeah, I hate her. I bet her nanny actually gave birth to the twins. I checked the book reviews and saw one about a grieving mom that lost her baby close to her due date. Uh, yeah, where is a Popular Mechanics when you need one?

Pretty soon, everyone is back for the cervix checking party. It doesn't really hurt it is just the thought of having an arm that is attached to someone you don't know that well, stuffed WAAAAYYYY up there in the regional vicinity of your baby.

He looks at me, rather forlornly, and adds there are no changes. Well, maybe . this much. Do you see that period? That is about all I am. My cervix is locked up tighter than Ft. Knox. He does mention that the little girl's head is RIGHTTHERE, like I haven't felt her trying to get out before. It is clear, to me, at least, that she has some kind of plans with someone, shopping date or something, that she is getting ready for. The truth is, am I ready?

Baby tease or stomach flu

2009-11-03T18:00:00.000-06:00

Ah, Christmas day, a time where you are supposed to watch your children open presents, open a few yourself and enjoy a big breakfast. I did those things, til about 11am, when I was forced into bed with extreme nausea and what I guess were extreme Braxton Hicks contractions. I laid in about a million different positions but to absolutely no avail. I couldn't sleep, couldn't get comfortable and had no visitors. Everyone was downstairs playing with toys and drinking Rum and Cokes. No fun for me. I didn't even want to drink water. So, I laid there and did nothing but moan and watch the Duggar's. Words can't describe that show. Here I am whining about having 1 baby and she has had 18. I will just let that subject die for now, as it is so crazy.

I can't sleep til around 230am. Nothing is comfortable and I am running that hot versus cold thing. Maybe I have a stomach bug, but I am having contractions and they aren't very fun. Baby Ivy is moving, my stomach is moving, my legs are moving. Can't it all just stop? Ugh. I have had to pee a gallon 3 or 4 times this evening. What the heck is going on?

I finally fall asleep around 330 or so. I wake up, contractions are still there but there isn't much nausea and I am very thankful. It has been a much better day today. I don't know whether it was being pg or being sick, but I am glad it is over.

I'M IN LABOR!

2009-11-02T09:14:00.000-06:00

Well, that isn't entirely true. Actually, it isn't true at all. I went for another weekly appointment and was treated to my Group B Strep Test and a bit of a checking. Fun. I figured it was the week of Christmas, so why shouldn't Dr. D get a double present? YUCK! Anyway, neither was bad, even the checking. I don't have tonsils so it wasn't a big deal. So... I'm not dilated and my cervix is thick. Hmmm... At least I may not go into labor on Christmas day. I have my next appointment on Monday, so guess we will see if I have made any progress. Merry Christmas!

Ugh!

2009-11-01T18:05:00.001-06:00

I am so sore that I can barely move. Miss Ivy is causing all of my muscles to pull. It really sucks because I can't even really turn over in bed. I can't always sleep in the same position, really, Ivy doesn't, but I am being forced to sleep only on my left side with my arms pulled in because even they hurt. Ugh. Oh, I am so ready.

The other day, Mia and I watched, "A Baby Story," on TLC. The woman had a daughter about Mia's age and was going to have another C section. Well... Her OB/GYN was gone for a week and wouldn't you know, she went in LABOR! The horror! They ended up doing a C section but she didn't look like she was having a bunch of fun with all of her contractions. Ugh. I don't want labor!

I have decided that I will let Dr. D check me, so at least I know if there is a good chance that something is going on down there. Ugh. I don't want to go into labor on Christmas or anything. I am keeping my fingers crossed that I can skip that. Until then, I will be reading my pregnancy book to see what the signs of labor actually are. Yeah, well, I know I should know, I just don't. Better safe than sorry.

Doctor visit

2009-10-31T06:43:00.000-05:00

Nothing spectacular to report. Everything, including my ankles, are good. Dr. D is pleased with everything. He did show some concern for the fact that I can barely stand upright and mentioned that it must really bother me because I have never complained to him. Well, yeah, it hurts but apparently I am stuck with it for the next 5, count them, 5 weeks. By the time my C section arrives, I will likely be prostrate somewhere in the basement, a pile of laundry covering my massive frame. The nurse did tell me that he would be glad to check me to see if I was dilated. Glad to check me? Wow, I seriously doubt that, but I decided to pass. I go back in 2 weeks for my early Christmas present, a hepatitis swab of the vagina and maybe if Dr. D is lucky, a quick poke at my cervix. Merry Christmas, Dr. D!

Springing a leak

2009-10-30T06:44:00.000-05:00

I was sitting propped up in bed the other night, reading, when I noticed the cat suspiciously sniffing at my shirt. There were 2 little wet spots right near my boob, which I figured she left from her little, wet nose. Well, no, apparently not. My left boob seems to have sprung a bit of a leak! Hmmm... I kind of figured it was a bit early for the boobie juice, but I guess not. I forced the cat off me and had a look. The dinner plate was clearly producing something of interest. I don't recall this happening with Mia but I know things are way different with baby Ivy P. For instance, I feel like I am lugging around 50 lbs of potatoes under my shirt. She moves like she is already taking dance lessons, shifting me from left to right. I have never been more constipated in my life. I have never consumed more peanut M&M's in my life. I guess every pregnancy is different, just as every baby is different. One thing that remains a constant is that I am ready to have the bun, just as I was with Mia.

Big, big, big

2009-10-29T20:00:00.000-05:00

Last night, we decided to celebrate our 5th anniversary. Partially due to the fact that we have company coming at that time, partially because I am getting so BIG that going out, walking, and some sitting in chairs is nearly impossible. So, we go out to Hu Hot and have Mongolian BBQ. I had 2 plates, that really isn't that much, but the second plate was so hot, that I had to pass it to darling husband. As we were passing out of the crowded restaurant, I heard a woman say to her husband, "She is going to have that baby anytime." I wanted to stop, grab her, shake her and yell, "Can you give me an exact time? I need to know, I can't wait until January 13th!" I didn't, instead I hiked my enormous butt to Best Buy, and let me tell you, it isn't very close. We had to make a pit stop in Dick's so I could rest. I sat in the shoe area on a solid wood bench. I may has well has sat on a bed of nails. I waddled to the front, after my 2 minute rest, and continued the hike to Best Buy. It was cold and I looked like an Abominable Snowmom. The walk around Best Buy wasn't particularly exciting. I wanted to sit in a cart but doubt that the staff would go for that. We got what we needed and I made hubby go for the truck. Yes, we took the truck, an impossibly high vehicle not conducive to being anywhere close to being pg. We then headed towards the mall, a place where I can't wear anything, to wander. No purchases but by now I was feeling the burn of being 8 1/2 months pregnant. It wasn't a good feeling. We got home and I laid down. I feel great, if I don't move. Too bad that isn't an option.

8 1/2 Months Along

2009-10-28T12:14:00.001-05:00

The bun is clearly taking over!

A craving

2009-10-27T07:48:00.000-05:00

I haven't had a lot of cravings since I have been pg with Miss Ivy. Lately, though, there has been something. Back in October, we had our monthly Bunco game at Lori's house. I felt terrible later that night because I consumed more food than I should have, well, anyone should have. On the tables, she had peanut M&M's. I don't care for them, yet I probably ate all of them. Hmmm... Well, 3 bags later, I am guessing that they must be hitting the spot. I have snuck to Target after dropping Mia off at school, I have sent hubby to Dillon's to get other things and add some M&M's to the cart. I have hidden them in my dresser drawer too, not wanting to share. It is pretty sad that I am hiding them, but with my family, I won't get one if I don't. I am hoping to kick this habit pretty soon.

I visited Dr. D today and he informed me that I have lost 3lbs, which I directly attribute to my intake of peanut M&M's! Anyway, I got my check in time for the Ivy delivery. Still 13 January, with a check in time of 1130 and a surgery time of 130. I am already nervous. My surgery form says I will be in the hospital for 1 day! I had to question because I really don't think that only 1 day is enough. I was assured that I would get at least 3 days, thank God! The nurse wanted to see my ankles, I had to assure her that they were fine because I had to have darling daddy tie my boots because I couldn't bend over to do it myself. I am having regular contractions and lots of movement. I feel like some of my innards are bruised. She has dropped and is pressing on things that I don't think are particularly comfortable. Certain movements and I swear I am going to pee my pants. Dr. D assures me that this will all be over soon. Yeah, in a few weeks. Until then, I may have to invest in some Pull Ups for myself.

Antsy

2009-10-06T06:58:00.001-05:00

Yes, I am getting antsy for Miss Ivy to be born. We aren't even close to being done with her room, but that's ok, I am still ready. The more I think about the C section, the more nervous I get. With Mia, it was easy, I read about it and still didn't know what to expect. Now, I know what to expect and am very nervous. Two friends had C sections last year and felt all of the pain. One needed to have anesthetic because she felt like she wasn't breathing. This is not stuff that I want to consider but still, it is in the back of my mind. I filled out my birth plan, though it is pretty much anything goes at Wesley. You can say that you don't want a student anesthesiologist puncturing your back with a needle, but you don't necessarily get that. You can ask that 749 people don't come into the room, where you are draped from the neck up but completely naked from the chest down. All of the goods are right out there, from the dinner plate sized nipples, to the retro bush. Just what you want a bunch of student doctors and nurses to see. I'm sure they don't really care, but I can hear them in the hall, whispering amongst each other. "Did you see that woman? Has she ever heard of waxing? Good lord, I hope to never see something like that again!" Well, anyway...

Baby stuff

2009-10-05T07:48:00.001-05:00

I am waddling through the kitchen this am and flash the hubby a little glimpse of the bun. He takes a double take and then tells me that she appears to be dropping! Oh! Wow. That is kind of scary! I know I have several weeks to go but still... I am wondering if she may come early on her own. I do hope not! I have mentioned that I am no fan of pain, of any kind, therefore, this kind of news kind of scares me.

I am already having major stretching issues. The 400 times I wake up to readjust are due to pain in my lower regions. That, and the bun thinks the early morning is the perfect time to do aerobics.

On another note, we were at Target and I was trying to get a sense of all of the new gear that I will need for the bun. I told darling husband that I needed some nipples. He looked at me like I was crazy, stating mine seemed to be ok. Yeah, yeah. I stood and looked at the Avent line of nipples for a long time. They have 0 months, 3, 6 and beyond. Wow. I had no idea. Guess they are next on my purchase list because I am hoping that she will be able, or at least, open to taking a bottle. Maybe I can have a bit of uninterupted sleep sometime.

A date with a doctor

2009-10-04T15:00:00.000-05:00

I had my last monthly appointment today. Everything is great! My weight, my blood pressure, everything. So, we made a date to have a C section. January 13th, my second little baby girl will be born. I am excited and ready!

Almost there?

2009-10-04T06:16:00.000-05:00

My ticker says 30 weeks, but I am actually approaching 32 weeks. This means that I am almost 8 months pregnant. YAY, but I am riding the emotional rollercoaster. I am so nervous about having another C-section, having another little person to care for, and whether my boobs will get the job done. I know, I know, what happens, happens and I am prepared, just not fully. We are still working in Ivy's room to make it look like a nursery, instead of a room full of junk. I have in my mind what it will look like, but who knows? The crib won't be up for awhile because we have a friend staying in that room for a couple of weeks. That's ok, I know it will get done?!?!

Goodness

2009-10-03T16:40:00.000-05:00

I am in bed, propped up with a thousand pillows, reading, when my book gets knocked off my imposing tummy. I think that I am dozing, but it happens again. It kind of hurts! I call her Daddy and tell him that there is clearly a party in my tummy. If you watch that hideous "Yo, Gabba, Gabba," you will know of what I am referring to. He looks at me like I am crazy. Then, he sees it. Ivy has her head jammed into my right side, but she is clearly trying to escape out of my left side. It is undulating and looks totally weird. Daddy looks a little freaked out, as I do.

On another note, I have still been spared stretch marks but have an itch that is indescribable. I feel like I rolled around in poison ivy! I woke up scratching the other night. Not to mention that I have a small patch of dry skin right at my hairline. I dare not say dandruff. It is only right there, but of course, it itches. I am breaking out the cocoa butter tonight. Daddy should be happy!

OUCH!

2009-10-02T14:49:00.000-05:00

Anal karma. What comes around, hangs around.

Sigh of relief!

2009-10-01T07:01:00.000-05:00

I hadn't gotten the results of my glucose test from Thursday, so called the OB/GYN's office this morning to see what was up. My mom and I, with some close planning, figured out when was the best time for me to go for the big, fun 3 hour test. I was wanting to get it hashed out with the nurse and get it into my planner. I left a message and waited for the return call. I get it and, lo and behold, I have passed the test! WOW! I didn't pass with Mia and just naturally figured I wouldn't with Ivy. I was pretty happy and screamed into the phone. I'm sure the nurse thought I was nuts for getting excited but I didn't care. I am almost 29 weeks along. I can't believe how well and how similiarly easy this pregnancy has been. I feel very lucky.

In need of a sitter

2009-09-23T06:59:00.000-05:00

Yes, I am in need of a sitter. I am clearly afflicted with insomnia so badly, that I rise at 230 and can't fall back to sleep. It sucks. I go to bed at 10, get up at 1130 to pee, get up at 1230 to pee and can't go back to sleep. I toss and turn and then I begin to dwell on something that happened 12 years ago. It just isn't natural. I should be exhausted and dying to sleep, but I'm not. I try to take a nap when Mia does. The nap usually lasts about an hour and then I'm left watching a toddler doze. I am so tired that I literally can't see straight. The insomnia coupled with being stuffy isn't a good combo. So, I need a sitter. I would like one for just the weekend. Someone that is responsible, fun and will feed Mia her bock bock. Oh, and one that has an empty womb to tote Ivy around for awhile. I want a huge sleeping pill a boiling hot tub and my flannel pj pants. See you on Sunday!

You'd think I'd be a pro by now...

2009-09-22T11:03:00.001-05:00

But, I'm clearly not. I went to Dr. D today and had to give the blood and pee that they normally ask for. Of course, I had to pee badly, so was thrilled after the nurse took my blood pressure and announced I could go. I close the door, drop my pants, roll up my sleeves and proceed to pee all over my hand. Of course, this makes me drop the cup, so I have to get another and start the entire process over. Good thing I had to really go, or it would have been an even bigger mess.

I drank my wonderful flavored cola glucose and waddled up the stairs. It was unpleasant and I will be taking the elevator from here on out. I am old and out of shape and it doesn't help that I have 9lbs of baby under my sweater. I sign in, sit down, they call me, I force myself up and into the lab chair. The bloodsucker asks where my paperwork is. I tell her the downstairs lady said they would have it, they do not. Another lady tries to find it in the computer, it is not there. So, instead of 1 vial of blood, they take 3, just in case. Ok, just hurry because I have to pee again.

Dr. D says I have gained 1lb from last month. This isn't taking into consideration that I am wearing a 6lb sweater and a 3lb vest because Miss Ivy isn't keeping me that warm and it is like 5 degrees. He looks at my massive tummy and says, "Wow, all your weight is baby." Yeah, I think I know that. She's good, I'm good, so we're done. I need a Rhogam shot next month and a flu shot too. Fun! Oh, and I will probably fail my glucose test, so will have to deal with that soon also. Nothing like 3 hours spent in the doctor's office with no food, nothing but water, a book and an arm full of holes.

Not much going on

2009-09-21T08:34:00.000-05:00

I am now in the 28th week! I am tired, stuffy and if I eat a bite more than I should, I feel like I am going to explode! I have my glucose test on Thursday, fun. I really, really love soda, so this should be extra exceptional. To be honest, I don't drink soda, don't like it and really hate that sugary slime on my teeth. I am going to guzzle it at 803, brush my teeth, drop Mia at school, brush again and then head to the lab. Of course, I will fail and have to have the big 3 hour torture test. With Mia, I had to go visit with a nutritionist to make sure I knew how to mix all my food. After I answered questions regarding my addiction to laundry detergent, paint and dirt, we moved on. The nutritionist let me play with all kinds of plastic food! What a blast. I am keeping my fingers crossed that I will pass and be spared the big test. Of course, I can't cross my fingers because they hurt so bad from the carpal tunnel. I can't cross my legs because there is too much baby in there. Oh, well...

Baby Waves, again

2009-09-20T16:17:00.000-05:00

We loaded up and hit Baby Waves, yet again to see if Miss Ivy would cooperate. She would not. She has nice arms and hands. I am guessing there is a little face, just don't have much to prove it. I will try and post some of the good images, however, it took me 3 hours to scan and chop etc. This week isn't looking good.

As far as the rest of us go, Ivy was very, very cranky last night, probably due to the amount of food I ate at Bunco. It was quite a list that I am not going to share. She made sure I knew, by keeping me up most of the night. We were out of Tums. Great.

Baby Wave

2009-09-19T10:52:00.001-05:00

We went, we got covered with hot goo and we left with little. Miss Ivy was just not wanting her picture taken, so we are going back next week.

Braxton, who?

2009-09-18T20:05:00.000-05:00

I am in the OB/GYN's office and we are discussing the usual. I haven't gained too much weight, my face looks good, my ankles are still visible. So far, so good. Dr. D mentions that because this is my second baby, I am more likely to feel some tightness and possibly have Braxton-Hicks at any time. Um, wait. How can I say this? I am a wimp! I am all for not having pain. I don't want labor. I know, I know, but I am not a tough girl. I didn't have an ounce of labor with Mia. I don't know what it feels like, I don't know what anything more than gas pains feel like. I haven't had constipation, hemmorhoids or anything like this. I can't imagine if I had a hemmorhoid! I would freak out! When I worked at the prison, there was a girl on light duty in the mailroom. She was GIGANTIC! I can't believe that there was a uniform that fit her. I heard it through the grapevine that she had a hemorhoid that was the size of a lemon. Good Lord! I felt bad that I thought she was enormous, because a few years later, here I am, sans hemorhoid. I am keeping my fingers crossed that I don't reach that pregnancy milestone.

On another note, I am considering putting a tummy shot on here. I have relatives that read my blog but I'm not sure that I am ready for all of the exposure.

A couple of baby pics

2009-09-17T11:48:00.005-05:00

Names?

2009-09-15T06:40:00.002-05:00

I have previously mentioned what my kids' names are, but in case you don't know, they are Max Henry, Mia Cynthia and the future, Ivy Paige. With Mia we debated whether we should have an "M" name or a 3 letter name. Maybe we could name her Maxine Henrietta? Well, for obvious reasons, we didn't. Here are some other examples that are a "shouldn't." These are really names. I guess you can't knock them til you try them.

A girl once worked for me, she had a normal name, so normal I can't even remember what it was. Her sister, also normal named, had twins. How exciting! Even more exciting? The twins were named Potpourri and Abracadabra? Hello? I don't even think that I can spell Abracadabra, let alone seeing how a kindergartner would spell it. I hope she writes small because that is a heck of a name to be scrawling across a piece of notebook paper. As for Potpourri, I don't think I spelled that correctly either. I am used to smelling it, not writing it.

When I lived in Texas, it was rumored there were twins named Ima and Ura Hogg. Nice, and a very effective way to keep your daughters from having an active social life. I have also been personally acquainted with an Ash Leigh Lee(that being her middle and last name), Vanity, Bezora, LaKeitha, and how can I forget, Shemetra? And I thought we put alot of time and energy into Mia and Ivy!

There are people that put alot of thought in what they want to call their children. I have a friend that has 2 little girls and her third was on the way. The girls' names started with a K and ended with a Y. She and her husband wanted the third girl to have the same combination. It is perfectly understandable of course. We struggled with should we have another M name that had 3 letters? The only name we could really think of was May. No, hubby dated a May, not happening. I struggled with what to name my friend's baby. Ha, like she was going to take my advice. I offered some names and she and her hubby finally decided on a cute and creative name with a K and a Y. Creative, but not Abracadabra(thank God), and that baby is lucky her parents aren't crazy. I was rather shocked when Kadorcasy was taken off the table but I fully understand and didn't take it personally.

In the grand scheme of things, I think it is of the utmost importance to name your child something reasonably normal. Notice I said, reasonably. No silent letters, nothing that sounds foreign that isn't. Case in point, my godson's name is Nyjol Ashley. That is Nigel, not "Knee Hole" as a nurse called him. I nearly passed out from laughter when I heard it. Out of deference for him and his mother, I called out, "That is Nigel." The nurse responded, "I didn't think any of you looked Hispanic." I'm not sure where the conversation was going so I excused myself to go finish guffawing in private.

So, please keep in mind that a child's name is with them forever. Subject to school yard taunting etc. your child may become very bitter and refuse to pay for your retirement home costs. We'll see what my kids think down the road.

Bounce me on the birthing ball, baby!

2009-01-31T21:07:00.002-06:00

When I was pg with big sister, hubby and I attended birthing classes at Wesley's birthing center. There were several couples, including a former newscaster, a teen that brought her mom and then the rest of us. I seemed to be in due the latest category. There was actually a couple that would finish a couple of days before the due date. All in all, a pretty boring group. Our instructor didn't even have kids, which I thought was odd. How can you teach what you have never done? I guess her 20 odd years of being a labor and delivery nurse gave her an advantage that none of us pre-mommies had.

After the requisite intro's, we jumped right in to, "Giving Birth, for Dummies." I really didn't need to know how I got pg, I think I had already figured that out. So, aside from the sperm meets the egg story, I was ready to tackle breathing and questioning how much my lower extremities would be hurting after I delivered a baby.

All kidding aside, we pre-mommies were scared as hell and wondering if we should just throw in the sterilized towel. We bounced on balls, laid in odd positions, and inhaled/exhaled to calming music in the dark. Our husbands fell asleep, letting us figure out how to get off the dang floor. All in all, it was 6 weeks of pure hell. I'm glad that my hubby got some sleep but I am worried about this kid that is going to shoot out of me and leave me not being able to pee without wanting to kill someone. I was especially thrilled to think about this thing called episiotomy. Where can I get one? Maybe I don't want one. My OB/GYN was cool and asked me what I wanted, for birth plan purposes. Give me drugs and bring my husband closer so I can slap him while cursing his name. That should be enough and did I mention the drugs? I have friends that have their babies at home, no drugs, no doc, just a husband to swear at, I'm kidding about the last part. I am proud of these women, I'm just not one of them. I would love to see these women in action. I don't want to know what I would be like in action. I'm sure that I would be crying, screaming and in general, just pissy. Of course, I would be pleased that I had a wonderful little baby in my arms, however, I am a big wimp.

Towards the end of the class, when we knew what sex our future babies were, we were asked to share the names we chose. As we made the rounds, I had to stifle my practically roaring laughter. One couple was planning Rusty Dale Earnhardt Petty, or something similar. The teen girl thought that Eowyn Inez was the way to go. It was a way, but... I'm not knocking the names just wondering if their children will go on to become NASCAR drivers or a beautiful elves?!?! And, yes, I know Eowyn was of the race of Men, but how interesting does that sound? Eowyn was a beautiful woman? Boring...

Sad to say, as nice and comfortable as the birth center was, I had to have a C section in the crappy main hospital. No bouncing on the big ball, no Enya humming in the background, no slapping my beloved husband for getting me knocked up. Instead, I couldn't eat or drink for 8 hours, had a nurse miss nearly every vain I had, drank some fizzy stuff and was stuck in the back so I wouldn't feel pain. No screaming or swearing, just chatter about the puffy shirt episode of Seinfeld. After a couple of minutes, the cleaned up tiny girl was handed to me, wrapped like a burrito wearing a hat. Welcome to the world, Dorcas Latifah.

2009-01-31T18:55:00.000-06:00

I am a true life baby, as tiny as a pea.
In just a little bit of time, you will begin to see me.

I am a tiny baby, in you I grow so strong.
You'll hold me in a few short months, it won't be very long.

I am a precious bundle, in you I still do grow.
I am your tiny baby, a feeling like you will never know.

I am a newborn joy, a baby delightful to hold.
Something that will never change, no matter how old.

I am a tiny child, a wonderful little girl.
Happy or sad, my face lights my mama's world.

I am a delightful, young schoolgirl, gaining knowledge every day.
My mama really loves me and helps me find my way.

I am a mature teen, going to dances and making friends.
My mom taught me well about how responsibility never ends.

I am an adult woman, who's future is incredibly bright.
My mom always worries about if she helped my grow up right.

I am a beautiful bride, my daddy walking me down the aisle.
Even through my mama's tears, I can still see her smile.

I am a brand new mother, as proud as one can be.
Thanks to my mama for all the strengths she gave me.

We have a name!

2009-01-31T07:48:00.002-06:00

After much deliberation, we have decided on a name for the new girl. We had our share of disagreements on a befitting moniker for her. Her daddy liked Kimberly. No. He liked Sophia. It is a great name but our cat is named Sofie. You can see why this wasn't an option.

We like family oriented names. My father's great grandmother's name was Nettie Virgilene. Nice, but heck no! Daddy's mom was Eunice Ruth. Nice, but no. A friend of mine relied solely on family names. Her baby turned out to be Carmella Josephine Caltagirone. Um...

My grandmother's maiden name was Ivy. I liked it but wasn't sure about the girl's daddy. Apparently, it grew on him.

Mia had her own opinions on what her little sister's name should be. She loves that crazy aardvark, Arthur. I guess he is an aardvark, I'm still not sure. Mia has a book about the birth of his baby sister. Her name is Kate. I like Kate, kind of plain but sweet and maybe not as common, as say, Kaitlin. If it was a boy, she likes baby Huffington, a bunny from Max and Ruby. So, we have names that belong to fictional animals, maybe not the best choices. Huffington Lawrence doesn't quite have a ring to it. Maybe if he was going to be a butler.

Hubby and I decided to go with Ivy Paige. It sounds nice and isn't that common. Of course, when she starts school, there will probably be 6 other Ivy's in her class. At least we didn't go with Maureen.

Baby Waves

2009-01-31T07:48:00.000-06:00

I have booked my appointment at Baby Waves for October 8th. The whole gang is going, baby daddy, baby mommy(of course), big brother, big sister, nana and papa. It is going to be interesting, all of us stuffed in there to see the little one.

It is probably an unecessary expense, especially after Dr.O'Hara's office took over 45 minutes of sono pictures. I still want to do it! Mia was so crammed in there when we did hers, that not only did we not get charged but we really didn't get much of an idea of her face. I was 28 or 29 weeks, I think. This time, I will be 26 weeks so there should be some room for a view.

We found out what sex Mia was born before we went to Baby Waves. Of course, I had to ask if she was still a girl! Of course, she was, but you never know, maybe the other sono tech's didn't really see the girl parts?!? You can't be too careful.

Twins

2009-01-30T11:39:00.000-06:00

Ha, ha! Got you! I'm not talking about the baby, I am talking about my boobs! I would never guess that my boobs would become the center of my life, so to speak. My belly is starting to swell and become massive. My boobs clearly think there is some kind of competition going on that they are part of. I wish they would have told me. I feel like the bags of cement are now watermelons. I hate them. They wake me up. My nipples are also killing me. The other night, I woke up, my left nipple stuck to the underside of my arm! If that isn't bad enough, the cat seems to think they are stepping stones to lead her to a comfortable spot. Move on, kitty cat.

Darling husband thinks they are great and asked if I can keep them after the baby is born. Get out of here!

More blood

2009-01-29T17:11:00.000-06:00

After my scary bleeding experience and skipping out on yet another amnio, I was told to ask for a blood test. Something called a second sequential. I had the first one so I guess it is best to have the second. I dutifully took my sticky note from the high risk doc to my regular doc. Only, because this day my regular doc was doing something else, delivering babies, or whatever, I saw the turtleneck cowboy instead. I was given the lab form and sent waddling upstairs to submit to yet another sticking by one of the techs that tells jokes, mostly unfunny. Somehow, the funny tech is out for lunch so I get someone that doesn't normally work in this particular lab. I'm in and out and told it would be just a couple of days. That was August 19th. Who has no results? Hmmm... Well, that would be me. The nurse calls wanting to know what lab I went to. I want to tell her that I drove to KC, directly to the place that does whatever it does to the blood. I refrain. Eventually, I am told that only an antibody test was done, no second sequential anything. So, tomorrow I am off, yet again, for a blood test. FUN!

Mommy, are you there?

2009-01-28T12:01:00.000-06:00

I had an uneventful visit to Dr. Depew yesterday. I had the usual weigh and pee before I saw him. He isn't worried about the one-time bleeding episode and said that Dr. O'Hara said things were looking good as well. So, I am relieved. Baby has a good heartbeat and is getting big. Or, maybe it is me that is getting big, baby tummy big. Dr. Depew mentioned that I had actually lost some weight from the visit last Tuesday. I'm sure I blushed before I told him that we had been in Las Vegas and the buffets added a little to my weight. He laughed and said and said we are both on the weight track.

This morning, while contemplating getting up, I got a little tap. Just a little tap but I think someone was trying to tell me something. It seems the tiny girl is ready for action and letting me know!

A little scary

2009-01-27T17:03:00.002-06:00

After our whirlwind vacation, I found myself staring at blood. Not something that I wanted to see, so naturally, I freaked out. I called Dr. Depew, and after arguing with the idiot from the doctor's service about when my birthday was, I left my info for the nurse to call me back. All she told me was that it probably wasn't anything. Well... It looked like something to me so we went off the hospital, where we spent the next 6 hours.

I gave blood, peed in a cup, had a sonogram and basically, laid around. Turns out that baby is great and it was probably just a little spotting and see your doctor the next day. I swear, they keep you there as long as they can, and do as little as they can to help you, then charge an arm and a leg.

I am supposed to have my amnio on Tuesday. I get into Dr. O'Hara's office and she explains that it is an increased miscarriage risk with second trimester bleeding on top of the amnio. Ok, well, let's scrap the amnio again.

After some calls, I get an appointment with another OB/GYN in the office. I am scheduled to get the Rhogam shot, some blood work, and if I am truly lucky, a pelvic! I do all of the usual peeing and undressing and wait for this new doc. Wow, is all I can say. He was very nice. He had a bad toupee, or maybe just really odd hair, a turtleneck and cowboy boots on. Now, that was a look! Not that I looked better, I was wearing a paper towel skirt that didn't quite fit, but I had some really cute shoes on, Taryn Rose, fuschia ballet flats with a crystal rose on top.

So, I have the pelvic. It was really fun. It hurt, maybe they could spray the speculum with some Pam or something. The doc pulled out these enormous glasses, um, hello, you are right up in my business, are you that blind? Anyway, I am declared blood free with a nice cervix?!?! I guess I wasn't aware that a cervix could be "nice," but I am ok with this. My shoes were nicer, but the doc didn't comment on them.

Lastly, I was given the shot. That Rh thing pretty much sucks. The nurse said I could have it in the hip or the arm. I had already bared all for the doc, so the show was over. She advised that it might burn. BURN? I couldn't believe how much it hurt! One would think since I had one with Mia that I would have remembered, however, I totally forgot how much it hurt. Enough with the needles, I hope to be done soon.

Oh, and one more thing! The nurse loved my shoes!

The Maxi

2009-01-26T16:14:00.000-06:00

I have never slept particularly well. I toss, turn and rethink stuff from years ago. Being pg is no different. Now, I toss, turn, rethink stuff and go to the bathroom every 3 hours. I can't get comfortable unless I have a couple of pillows to shore me up. Occasionally, after hubby gets up, I will flop over and use his comfortably worn in body pillow. He has had it now for a couple of years and it is just the right thickness.

I had been hinting at the body pillow prospect for my birthday. I figured it would be great to hold my entire, rapidly expanding body. So, when I opened the enormous pillowcase, I was thrilled! I washed the cover and wrestled that pillow into it and zipped it close. I may have been wrestling an alligator, this thing was so big. Unfortunately, the pillow was in wrong and I had to do it again. By now, I am out of breath and sweating. Oh, well... I'm sure that I am going to be comfortable and sleep like a baby with a baby.

The next morning, I wake up, not particularly rested, and I see that my body pillow is laying in a heap next to the bed. Not good, why was it down there? I look over and my king size pillow is laying next to me. Apparently, I discarded the biggest pillow in the world for my old standby. Now, this is a great pillow. Maybe 5 feet long, nice and cushiony. Actually, it looks like a gigantic maxi pad, sans wings. I think I have Always beat.

I ask hubby if he will sleep with the maxi pad and he says ok, he will break it in for me. The next morning, he tells me that the case is too scratchy and the pillow is too big. So much for him getting it deflated.

I will try again tonight to cuddle up to my 5 foot long, maxi pad and hope that one night I will rest comfortably.

Poke me, please!

2009-01-25T07:09:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, dear husband and I went to visit a perinatologist. She is the only one in Wichita that sees moms of "advanced maternal age." Since I turned 39, yesterday, I guess I fit in that category. I kept arguing that I was really 20, but no one was listening. I was to check in at 9am, for my day of fun.

I was instructed to arrive with a full bladder so that the sonogram could begin promptly at 9. I drank and drank. I get to the office and I have to wait 15 minutes. By now, I feel like I am going to explode! I finally get into the sono room and the tech tells me that I can go because my bladder is too full! Thank God, I nearly peed right on the exam table.

We sit through 45 minutes of sono. She measures literally everything. Arms, legs, heart, brain, placenta, you name it. It was fine, though, since I didn't have to pee. I was kind of waiting for the, "Are you ready to find out if it is a boy or a girl," question, but it didn't come. Instead, she said, "Well, it looks like a girl to me." Hubby and I weren't shocked, since it is kind of a 50/50 outcome. After a million pictures, we were dismissed to see the doctor.

Dr. O'Hara was a nice lady, with a great bedside manner. She thoroughly explained everything, pros and cons of the amnio. She explained that the baby was doing great and we really should have little worry about things. For my own peace of mind, I decided to get the amnio done. We were ready to get the poking done, when the nurse asked if I had a pre-certification code from the insurance. Um... NOPE! I didn't know I was supposed to. Of course, the insurance gives you the runaround, so we miss our window of amnio opportunity.

I have to reschedule for next Tuesday. This is the day after we come home from Vegas, the day before I am supposed to host bunco, the day I am supposed to do a million things. My own fault.

Babymoon

2009-01-24T07:00:00.000-06:00

My darling husband and I have decide to take a babymoon! We are going to Las Vegas in a couple of weeks. Aside from the oppressive heat and the fact that my feet will be killing me, it should be fun! We are going to eat at alot of yummy places, all which will leave me with heartburn and gas. We are going to do alot of walking so I will be hot, sweaty and probably miserable. I can't wait!

Lots of Blood

2009-01-23T08:36:00.000-06:00

No, it isn't from any place that is really important. It is my nose. I feel like it is stuffed with cotton. I try to blow all of that pleasant stuff out but it isn't really working. So, I am left with a huge bloody nose and a bunch of clothes that now have to be bleached.

I am also feeling big! I look at my stomach and am totally freaked out. My belly button is also starting to pop out. Pretty soon, I won't be able to see my feet.

Happy birthday!

2009-01-22T11:15:00.000-06:00

After waiting for a couple of days to hear when my amnio is scheduled for, I finally heard. It is scheduled for 9am on my 39th birthday! I am not thrilled but the doctor is a specialist and since I am now elderly, I have no choice. There is good and bad, of course. The good news, is that if the bun cooperates, we will know the sex. The bad... Well, there is that 4 foot long needle that is going to rammed inside my belly button. Fun!

More Test Results

2009-01-21T16:17:00.000-06:00

I went for my monthly appointment. Everything is fine! According to statistics, my chances at 38 for Down's is 1-80. With the blood test, it went way up to 1-5000! Of course, I am relieved. I did decide to go ahead and elect to have the amnio. Not thrilled about them sticking me with a 4ft long needle but I feel it is best to get everything in check. We will also know the sex! Mia is convinced it is a girl, so we will know for sure.

Test Results

2009-01-20T20:13:00.000-06:00

I was in a panic! The OB/GYN's nurse called saying that he would be out all of this week. I was supposed to have my nuchal translucency test results on Monday, so naturally, I freaked out and begged them to have a nurse, or anyone that was capable of reading my chart, call me with the results. Luckily, they called back within an hour, saying that the neck was normal. I'm still not sure how they could even see the neck, but I am happy to go with the results. I am supposed to hear about the blood test when the results come back. I guess they go to KC, to some lab.

On another note, I swear that I have inherited sandbags for boobs. They are rock hard and still hurt. I mean, they hurt before, but this is ridiculous! The other night, I woke up, kind of sweaty and my nipple was literally attached to my arm! It hurt! Of course, it doesn't help that when Sofie is trying to get comfortable, she thinks that squashing them helps her settle in. I am thinking of giving her a real treat, by using her in the wraps I have. Maybe she will find somewhere else to sleep.

Test Day #1

2009-01-19T12:41:00.000-06:00

Today, I had the nuchal translucency test. It was just a sonogram where the highly trained tech measures the neck fat of the bun. Afterwards, I had a blood test that is supposed to substitute for 2 other blood tests. I will know in a week the results. I have to miss my nap to go! Anyway, the bun was pretty active. The tech jostled us both a little bit to get the measurements necessary. I already had to pee so this wasn't good. It was kind of cool because the bun obviously knew he/she was being photographed because there was a big wave from the tiny arm. I watched everything on the big screen so I really got to see that the alien I was toting is now a baby shaped baby!

Fun!

2009-01-18T11:27:00.000-06:00

My family and I have been gone a total of 4 days now. Seattle is beautiful, cloudy one minute, sunny the next. We are enjoying our time, eating and socializing. Mia and I have snuck in some catnaps because I am just totally exhausted. I have been climbing, literally, a million stairs a day. My abdominal muscles feel like rubber bands, lots of pulling. I am pretty pleased because the size of my boobs seems to be on a more level course, meaning that they don't feel like they have grown by leaps and bounds in the past couple of days. I have noticed something different though. It appears that I have hijacked a ham from Costco and stuffed it under my shirt. I believe that I am officially showing! No longer can I blame an enlarged tummy on too much pasta salad and chocolate mousse cake, I am going to have to own up, that I am in fact, only going to get bigger. Watch out world, I have popped!

Ok, here is the deal...

2009-01-17T11:46:00.000-06:00

I have been told that my blog is difficult because I am writing it backwards. Well, bowing down to my loyal readership, I have decided to blog with the newest entry first. Just in case you don't think that I am appreciative of you reading my blog, I am! Just don't ask for any more changes, my brain was taxed just trying to add 2 new entries. Oh, by the way, I do know the dates are gone and days are substituted. When I have about 4 hours to tinker, maybe I will fix those too. But, I wouldn't bet on it.

New Hobby

2009-01-06T11:09:00.000-06:00

The baby has decided that I need to have another hobby, peeing. With Mia, I literally peed all of the time, sometimes waking up 5-6 times a night. I knew where all the restrooms were, no matter where we were. It never let up either. Just this week, I have been blessed with so many visits to the bathroom that I swear I need to move my bed into the bathroom. Normally, it is Mia that is begging to go to the bathroom everywhere we go. Now, it is me going to the bathroom, with Mia telling me she doesn't have to go and why are we going again? I can't wait to have to go on the airplane. I am just glad that I am not huge with baby, or might need the jaws of life to get me out!

Old Eggs, New Baby

2008-12-31T22:01:00.000-06:00

Here I am, at almost 39 years old, with old eggs. The doctor has told me this. I know I am getting old, therefore, the eggs must be too, right? I really don't need a doctor to tell me this. So, my husband and I decide that I am going to kick my birth control pill habit and we are going to explore having sex for procreation purposes, not just for the whooping good time it produces.

I go off the pill in late October '07. We have sex. We have sex. We have sex. We have sex. We have sex. We have sex. We have sex. We have sex. We have sex. We have sex. Finally, I can take no more. I am tired. We have 2 other kids, a 14 year old and a 3 year old, and while they are easy, they still require the basics, like food and clean clothes. I am tired.

Friends mention to me that I should rub some kind of cream on me so that I have a better chance of getting pregnant. Maybe I will slaughter a chicken and go the voodoo route. Maybe not. That damn chicken juice is a pain to get off the countertops, let alone all of the blood and feathers. Others mention that maybe I don't ovulate. I Google "ovulate." Seems that is good but may not be at the right amount of days to produce an egg?!? I don't know... Frustration ensues when they ask when I ovulate. I counter with, "Well, when you do you ovulate? Show me!"

Thank God, us ovulation amateurs can download a free and easy ovulation calendar. You plug in some dates and then you plug in your spouse. I began to mark days down, when we had to have sex or it was all for nothing. Well, nothing is what I got. Damn you, slimy secretions.

Many times my husband said that I have only a couple of months to get knocked up or he was pulling the plug on the whole darn deal. While I was sad, I was on track for believing that it was for the best, maybe. On Saturday mornings, I sleep til 730 and think it is the bomb. Mia can feed herself and get dressed and that potty thing is mostly taken care of. I basically have kids that can take care of themselves. Maybe not having another screaming baby would be ok. Maybe I could get used to it.

Fast forward to Mothers Day. I tell my husband that the best gift would be to be pregnant. My period is right around the corner so I am not confident.

May 13th, a day that started out much like every other day in my life. I take Max to school, Mia and I do some errands. My period is late. I am not particularly regular and am a couple of days off. I buy a pregnancy test from the Dollar Tree. For $1, maybe I can get a laugh.

Ha, Ha! The laugh is on me. The positive sign shows up before my pants are zipped. I am nearly hysterical. I call my husband. He doesn't believe me. When he breathes again, I tell him I am off to Walgreens to buy another. Surely, one test can't be accurate. I grab Mia from her chair and fly down the street, a mixture of laughing and crying. I buy the test and we race back home.

I open the box and read the instructions. I pee again and not much happens. Nothing. False alarm, maybe there are false negatives? I decide to blow off the instructions and pee on it again. So, I did. After about a second, I got my second postive. Still in a state of shock, I call my mom and yell at her to come over. She thinks I am crazy, which, at this point, I am. She agrees to bring yet another test over later that afternoon.

I get Mia down for her nap and pace the floor, calling my husband to verify that I did, in fact, call him with the news. My mom comes with the third test. I take it. I call her in. It is positive. There can be no doubt that I am pregnant! She has a pint of mint chocolate chip ice cream that we promptly empty.

So, I am pregnant!

Positive or Not?

2008-12-30T20:33:00.000-06:00

I make an appointment with my doctor to see if I am really pregnant. I go, I wait, I pee. I have been to the doctor's office once a week for the past 3 weeks. Once for my yearly physical, for an internal sonogram and then for the results of yet another pregnancy test. Nothing was detected on the sono and I had to tell my doctor that I was pregnant when he called to let me know there were no problems. He is thrilled because he not only said that my husband and I make "beauitful babies" but he and his wife had a baby late in their 30's and he raves about how much fun it is. Keep in mind, he goes to work all day, leaving his wife with 4 kids.

The test is positive, go figure. I am sent to the lab, where they withdraw 3 gigantic tubes of blood. They also want more pee, which I can't give. I'm not to the go pee every 5 seconds stage yet. The doctor tells me that all the results will be sent to my OB/GYN, and wasn't I lucky I just had a Pap? Yeah, lucky.

The doctor determines that I am around 3 weeks pg, with a rough due date of January 18, 2009. My wonderful, caring, sweet, loving husband immediately comments that he hopes I will have my C-section early. You know, that extra tax deduction. How thoughtful!

I call and make the appointment with Dr. Depew. I tell the woman that answers that I am old and only 3 weeks along. She insists that it is not necessary to see me before I am 8 weeks. Ok, whatever. She gets all of the insurance info, period info etc. and says I am actually probably 5 weeks instead. I'm not sure how a person that answers the phone in the office is qualified to change my due date but, whatever. My first appointment is May 29th.

Hormones, kicking in

2008-12-29T08:34:00.000-06:00

My husband is studying in bed. He teaches a class about treasury management. It looks boring but is good for the resume and the pocketbook. I can't sleep. This isn't unusual because I never slept when pg with Mia. Of course, BTK was still on the loose and really freaked me out. I can't not sleep for 9 months. I just can't. I can't function in the evening without taking an hour nap in the afternoon as it is.

Anyway, so I am trying to fall asleep. I can't, so my thoughts turn to, "What the hell am I doing having another baby!" The tears turn on like a faucet and I am desperately trying to keep my sobbing to myself. Of course, that doesn't quite work when you are near hyperventilation. I explain all of my crazy emotions while new daddy holds my hand. I can't even breathe anymore, I am so wound up.

I accept blame for getting pregnant and for the fact that we have to buy a bigger car. I have no idea what I am really saying anymore. Hubby just holds my hand and tells me it will all be ok and that we needed a bigger car sooner or later anyway.

We discuss names. Nikita comes up, yet again. It is shot down, yet again. Kimberly comes up, yet again. It is shot down, yet again. No child of mine is going to be named after someone in the past. Husband's past, not mine. I have never dated a Kimberly or Nikita and don't intend to.

Ok, Braxton, I hear you.

2008-10-04T10:34:00.004-05:00

I am told by my OB/GYN that I am more likely to have Braxton Hicks contractions because this is my second baby. Now, that sounds like a thrill, but not one I am interested in. Well, my time is here and so is Braxton. I have been feeling a tightening in my tummy, usually followed by a warm sensation that spreads across my tummy like hot butter on a baby bun. It is temporarily unpleasant but not something I feel like I need to haul myself in to Labor and Delivery for. I am hoping that it continues to be something that isn't serious, as I am an old broad, I am told there is the risk for pre-term labor. So, for now, we are all good, baking the little bun for a few months longer. Sheesh, it really isn't that much longer.

Not much else is going on. I have enormous boobs, a gigantic belly and my belly button is no longer. Fun! January here we come.

Oops! Excuse, me!

2008-05-20T08:35:00.000-05:00

Wow! Being pg can really give your body some noisy reminders. I catch myself burping like a sailor and farting like an elephant, several times a day. While it is embarassing, I feel so, so much better afterwards. I have read that some of the symptoms of pregnancy or constipation and heartburn. I don't recall much of this with Mia, but it is all hitting me now with a vengeance. With Mia, I had some early nauseation, but not so bad that I complained, or at least, not much. This time, I am complaining and was complaining back when I had my yearly physical. The doc chalked it up to something in my diet. Guess he was wrong! Anyway, I think that I have the nausea under control but this burping an farting seems to be unending. I ripped one the other day while I was sitting with Mia, watching that dreaded Caillou, and she stopped, looked at me, and said, "Was that you, Mama?" I laughed nervously and told her, that in fact, it was Icky, the dog. She didn't pass out, so I guess she moved on. While this phase of my bodily symphony may or may not continue, I am defintely not looking forward to the next phase, the endless peeing.

With Mia, I peed endlessly. I knew where all of the restrooms, good or bad, were. Sometimes I went twice at the same place. I peed roughly 12 times a night. It was bordering on ridiculousness. The OB/GYN said it would probably diminish by the 3rd trimester, it didn't. After my C-section, I had a cath, and obviously couldn't pee on my own. It was kind of nice. One of the nurses came in and told me that I needed to pee more because I was severly dehydrated. Well, of course, I was, I hadn't had anything to drink for hours. I demanded a drink, then another and another. I got to where she thought I should be urine speaking and felt alot better.

All I can say, is good luck to you if you are standing anywhere close when I let one rip. Hopefully, there will be an unsuspecting pet nearby.

High Beams Ahead

2008-05-18T15:31:00.001-05:00

My ticker states that I am 6 weeks and 1 day pregnant. This is all well and good, except that someone forgot to tell my boobs that I am still early enough that I shouldn't have to head to the lingerie department to be fitted for a bigger bra. My DD status looks like it needs an upgrade. Shirts that I should be able to wear without having to suck in my breath are now shirts that are practically "busting" out the seams. I don't see this as a good sign of things to come.

Aside from the sheer size of the boobs, of which my husband is appreciative, my boobs HURT! Just looking at them wrong is likely to produce a, "Back off, these suckers are killing me!" When I am cold it is even worse. I feel like my nipples could cut glass, or at the very least, the fabric of my shirt. I half assed nursed Mia, later resorting to pumping, and that left me with gigantic and painful boobs. I resorted to putting washcloths in my bra during that wonderful stage. I can see that I am in for a long, fun time.

So, my boobs are huge, hurt and my areolas are turning into some kind of modern art. New lumps, bumps and the fact that they look like they belong to someone slightly more tan than myself, add a whole new dimension to my pregnant persona. What a joy to have big boobs with dinner plate sized areolas. Frightening!

1st Doctor Visit

2008-05-17T17:44:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is the big day! I am going to visit Dr. Depew. I got the call to remind my "mommy brain" that my appointment is tomorrow at 910, a weird time, I think. The woman was kind of enough to tell me that he had moved his office. That saved me having to drive 15 minutes out of my way and look more like an idiot than I already look. Luckily, he has moved right behind the birth center, and having spent 8 or so weeks there learning how to have a baby, it is a good possibility that I can find it.

I am betting that I am not as far along as I have been told. That will pretty much suck because, not only am I a firm believer in instant gratification, but I am also packing on the pg pounds, and it really sucks. I am a bloated mess with gigantic boobs. I won't even get into my emotional side, lest I get angry or start to cry, and never finish this post.

I am looking forward to the first sonogram to see what my little blueberry looks like. Maybe it is actually more like arborio rice sized, but that is ok too. I am in for the long haul, no matter the food group my little bun is categorized in.

It's Official

2008-05-16T11:55:00.000-05:00

Bobby and I went for our first of about a million visits with Dr. Depew. He looks about 3 years older than the last time, ha, ha. Who am I kidding? I look more than the 3 years that have passed since he delivered Mia. We meet in the nice, new office, so new, the staff can't figure out where some of the necessary stuff is. I hop on the table for my sonogram. He can't see anything, which just reinforces my thought that I'm not really pregnant at all. He decides that an internal sono is exactly what is needed. I am a pro at these because I just had one 3 weeks ago. Sure enough, I have a uterus! But, there is but a wee, tiny bun in the oven. Measuring at almost 7 weeks, we got to hear the heartbeat, and see that maybe we are closer to a blueberry than that piece of rice! I am scheduled for another sono in 2 weeks, than I am month to month. We agreed on a future C section and were on our way. I came home with an armload of baby info that will take til he/she is born to read and the knowledge that we are on our way to having another baby!

Eating and Exercise-Or What I Put in My Mouth is Going Right to My Butt

2008-05-15T08:13:00.001-05:00

I haven't had any nausea lately but food and/or eating doesn't have much of an appeal for me. I know I need to eat and I do, but nothing is really hitting the spot. Or, everything is hitting the spot and it is stuff I shouldn't be relying on for good nutrition. For instance, I am loving those Little Debbie Nutty Bars and nachos from Taco Bueno. I suppose that I have a little room in my diet for these things because we are walking alot more now. Of course, I am not fond of any exercise so it is a challenge. We actually took 2 walks on Sunday. It is so hot and humid here. Like Hell, hot. I can't stand it! I hate to sweat, and sweating while pg is even worse. The sad thing is that I know I am going to show earlier than I did with Mia. I was about 6 months along before I required any maternity clothes. I don't think that is going to happen this time. Ugh!

I Guess the Baby Doesn't Like Taco Shop, Or How I Spent the Night in the Bathroom

2008-05-14T08:22:00.000-05:00

Bobby brought home Taco Shop yesterday for lunch. It tasted like HEAVEN! I didn't eat too much, just enough. I took a nap and later we went on a walk. Then, I was struck by the revenge of Taco Shop! I will spare you the gory details, but thankfully, it has passed. Literally.

I Guess the Baby Doesn't Like Any Food, Or How I Spent the Night in the Bathroom

2008-05-13T08:54:00.001-05:00

Seriously! This is getting old!

A Good Visit

2008-05-12T16:24:00.000-05:00

I went to Dr.Depew today for another sono. He just wanted to do a regular sono, versus the vaginal one, to get a look at the little bun. I was pretty happy it wasn't a vaginal one also, that isn't the way I like to spend my days. Anyway, it appears that the bun has taken a pretty good liking to my womb and is in for the long haul. Good heartbeat and size, measuring accurately for 9 weeks. I could vaguely tell that the little lizard tail was gone and bun is looking more like me! Well, or maybe like dad.

Bella Bands

2008-05-11T18:14:00.000-05:00

I saw Bella Bands on Amazon and was very curious. When I was pg with Mia, I just let it all hang out, so to speak. I thought about getting something like these but just never got around to it. The thing about the Bella Bands is that they can keep your pants on! I have jeans that I can't button, probably because I am just fat. Anyway, with the Bella on, I have been able to wear whatever I want to. I am so not ready for maternity pants. I bought some but I don't want to resort to them until I absolutely have to. I am already fighting with my body, no need to move prematurely into ugly pants and with the Bella, I don't have to. They will make some killer tube tops when I am doing being pregnant. Of course, I am totally kidding!

On another subject, Mia and I were in Walmart today. The lady behind me asked how old Mia was. I told her she would be 4 in November and she let me know that she had a daughter the same age and a 15 month old daughter. I asked her how that was going, you know, get a little insight from someone that is in the toddler/baby trenches. Her reply, "I take Zoloft." Nice.

Gas Attack!

2008-05-10T10:07:00.000-05:00

I figured that I would revisit Taco Shop for some unknown reason. I guess that is what I was hungry for it, even though I had some pretty killer diarrhea from it last time. Everything was fine. I took a little nap, but got up early because I was really excited to be going to bunco. I haven't been mingling much, so it kind of messed with my nap. All went well at bunco, I didn't have to pee too much and I ate some good Alfredo pizza and breadsticks. Afterwards, we all hung out in Dawn's yard and gabbed. I felt really hot and the humidity and bugs were getting me. I didn't say anything because I don't think it was because I am pg that it all was bothering me. It just is because I am me and hate the heat, humidity and being eaten alive by mosquitoes. Steph and I got on the turnpike and immediately I feel a HUGE bubble passing through my intestines. It feels like I am going to fart something serious, like I should tell Steph just to pull over and get out, lest she pass out while driving. I shift around, trying to get more comfortable. The bubble goes away. Bubble comes back. Man, I think I am going to shit my pants! That would be pretty freaking embarrassing. Not that Steph doesn't know, or rather, hasn't seen, some of the pretty dumb stuff I do, but shitting my pants in her car, is something that I would rather reserve for family members, and even them I would try to spare. We pull up and I tell her thanks and sorry but I have to go to the bathroom, NOW. I get the keys, run for the door, twist the key in the lock and know that the safety latch is latched. Bobby has luckily heard me and opened it quickly. I throw him out of the way and hit the bathroom. I will leave all the gory details out, but let's just say that I made it in the nick of time. I spared Steph and her van, and that was my prime goal. I promise not to eat Taco Shop until Baby Lawrence is here. Then again, if I eat it and nurse, I could see real trouble again.

Ah, dreaming!

2008-05-06T20:00:00.000-05:00

It seems like all I do lately is dream about food. Actually, it isn't really dreaming, as I still am not sleeping much, it is more like fantasizing. I want to eat EVERYTHING! I'm not really having cravings, I just want to eat. I had some Heavenly Snow tonight, wedding cake flavored, yum! Yesterday, I had some frozen pound cake. Thank you, Sara Lee! I have also enjoyed a rather big portion of Doritos, with a side of American cheese slices. The other night, I was so hungry, I nearly got up to make a grilled cheese sandwich. I wanted to see the butter melted to a nice, golden brown, while the cheese oozes out after I tore into it. My mouth was literally, watering. Bobby prevented me from getting up, so I just laid in bed and tossed and turned. I probably woke a million more times, thinking of something that I would love to eat, but couldn't. Right now, I am off to find something to eat. Where did I hide the Little Debbie Peanut Butter Bars?