How far along are you? 4w4d How old are your other kids? DD 11 months Current challenges/concerns about being a STM or questions about things your children are going through now? I'm a bit worried about the 2 under 2 - but hoped for two close in age, so it might be a challenge few years. We are having a hard time transitioning to table food, DD will eat puffs, cheerios, bambas (really any carb), and yogurt melts. Cheese, meat, fruit, veggies are not going as well - but the pediatrician says that she is doing fine and some kids stay on purees longer than others. Current joys/successes/or happy thoughts about being a STM: I still really can't believe it - trying not to get my hopes up too much as I know it is still early. Rants/Raves/Randoms/Questions/ Finished a crib rail cover for DD's crib and I think it turned out pretty good. I might make a couple tweaks so the snaps are a bit tighter. AW picture below:
GTKY: How are people reacting to your news (or have you not shared yet)? We haven't shared yet and I'm not sure when we will. Toying with the idea of sharing at DD's first birthday party, but am not sure I want that much in person attention. @heatherdubrow Sorry I took your comment as snarky - I thought I was clear with looking for carseat safe recommendations, but TOTALLY get wanting to make sure safety is first. It is kinda amazing how many crib bumpers I see in nursery pics (and in TV/movies/commercials too), how many car seats I see in the top part of the cart, or how many kids I see rear facing too early, so I understand wanting to make sure people know. @LiveNLove44 I thought it looked pretty cool too - but it looks like the company went out of business a few months ago (at least according to the facebook page - not sure why the website is still running). I'm wondering if there are any similar products people recommend.
@chasingroygbiv Winter is SO great isn't it? I'll look into getting a thin fleece jacket for DD and we'll do blankets in the car too. I'm just trying to decide if getting her an actual winter jacket is worth it. She'll only be 15 months in November - will she play outside at daycare that young? I can't see us taking many walks as it gets dark basically by the time I get home.
Me: 30 H: 30 Dx: PCOS Married: June 2013 TTC#1: January 2015 BFP #1 8/24/15 | MC 9/3/15 at 6w2d BFP #2: 12/12/15 | DD born 8/29/16 TTC#2: June 2017 BFP #3: 7/15/17 | DS born 3/20/18
@becausescience We got our daughter one for her first Winter (making her more like 9 mos, so a bit different from your babe) and she wore it once at the tree farm for 15 minutes before she got back in the truck. And it. Was. Adorable! I was super bummed, but it was essentially useless. Daycare is a tough question. Is it a center with multiple teachers or an in home? If in home and there are infants I kind of doubt they'll go out. If she's in a center/in home without infants you may want a coat because then I bet they'd go out. Or just have a sweatshirt and then the fleece and a nice warm hat and mittens. My kids never lasted more than 20-30 minutes outside at that age (my daughter is like me and lasted at most 10 minutes).
How far along are you? 7 wks How old are your other kids? 2.5 DS Current challenges/concerns about being a STM or questions about things your children are going through now? Potty training, caring for c section and toddler care when I am recovering Current joys/successes/or happy thoughts about being a STM : I thought I'd be sad that DS won't be an only anymore but we've been trying for a little while here and I have no sad emotions I think a sibling is just what he needs. Rants/Raves/Randoms/Questions/ My DS is a runner so I'm nervous about being able to keep up with him toward the end, but DH is pretty hands-on so we will have to learn how to deal GTKY: How are people reacting to your news (or have you not shared yet)? DH knows and is very excited and is treating me like glass, I don't like it. We've told a few friends that have more than 1 and they are thrilled. Not sure that I'll do a big announcement this time around I feel like I want to keep this pregnancy and new baby all to myself.
@becausescience I had to commute by foot in the winter through snow with my DD in a Deuter backpack, go down a gondola, then into a car to drive to daycare...I got her a fleece full body suit that had fold over hands, a hood, and a double zipper in the front. In the car, I would unzip it a bit, take the hood and hand covers off, but leave her in that for the commute...it worked really well for a commute...of course when she was playing outside in the snow she would wear something more waterproof Hope that helps!
@mountain_girl I promise I'm not creepy, but I TOTALLY want to see the set up of your house! I'm not very outdoorsy when it comes to hiking and stuff (I like walks and being outside, but aside from that I don't get too crazy), but your posts are intriguing! I'm envisioning like.. movie style mountain homes!
How far along are you? 4 wkish (just took the test yesterday) How old are your other kids? My son is 20 months Current challenges/concerns about being a STM or questions about things your children are going through now? A lot.... We were trying so I am excited about it, but this baby means my entire life is about to change and that is kinda shocking. I teach at a small catholic school and my salary isn't much... We've come to realize that my paycheck won't be worth sending two kids to daycare. So I'm leaving my career that I love and it's tough. I tried really hard to find a job in public school this summer because they pay/benefits would be substantially more but no luck. I'm also bummed because my brother is getting married on a cruise in February and now I won't be able to go. Last time it took us like 6 months to get pregnant. This time it was our 2nd month of trying! Current joys/successes/or happy thoughts about being a STM : I'm excited to see my son be a big brother. I'm excited to have a tiny baby again. Rants/Raves/Randoms/Questions/ Any stay at home moms that would like to share some wisdom? Any previous c-section moms that plan to try vbac or have gone through it successfully? GTKY: How are people reacting to your news (or have you not shared yet)? Only husband and I know. I expect people will be excited. Not shocked.. They knew we wanted another one soon. I'm hoping my brother and SIL won't be disappointed that I can't make it to the wedding.
@chasingroygbiv not creepy at all! It's been a very unique living situation for 4 years (engagement, marriage, baby, this pregnancy!) And honestly, it really is like the movies a little bit, we have a wood burning stove, all loft style, everything made of wood...it's not too rustic though, we have laundry, cable, Wi fi... I actually don't consider myself hardcore, so living here has had its ups and downs for sure, especially during mat leave...talk about isolation!
@tracyjean22 my DD was a c section and with this one I would like to try a Vbac...mainly because I'm worried about c section recovery with a toddler and newborn!
@tracyjean22@mountain_girl I attempted a VBAC with my second after having an emergency csection with my first. It didn't work out for me (baby was sunny side up and not budging) but in my opinion, it's so worth trying!!
If it doesn't work out and you end up having a csection again, I wouldn't worry too much. I found the recovery the second time around to be much easier. My son was only 19 months when I had my daughter, and I think being forced to be relatively active right away was actually a good thing. I recovered really quickly and had much more energy a lot sooner than with my first. I hope that helps!
@becausescience my mom makes a fleece poncho that you can put over baby's head while they are buckled in. As they get older you can take them in and out of the car in it so they stay warm and it's safe. It drapes over the back of the seat when they are in it.
@mountain_girl@kmalls thanks for the reassurance. I am worried about the recovery with a toddler.. But I'm also being Damn stubborn. Last time I went into emergency c-section because my son's heart rate kept dropping and I pushed for 45 minutes with out him budging. Turns out he was a bit sideways and not coming out anyways. As silly as it sounds I feel like I was robbed of the delivery I imagined. My doc had said back then that I would be a good candidate for a vbac so that's the plan. Hoping it is successful but I will also accept the possibilities of another c-section. Happy/healthy baby is the goal anyways... Not how he/she gets here.
Ugh I can't keep track of who said what ni these long threads.
Thise asking about vbac - not me but my sister had a vbac and she described it as the healing experience she didn't even realize she needed. She switched hospitals and providers... her cs was a classic cascade of interventions including a pre-Edd induction. So she was a great candidate, but going to a hospital that has a good record for vbac is key... a lot will say they allow them but their numbers say otherwise. She used the same midwifery group as me and we both delivered at a great local hospital. There is a strong contingent of more 'crunchy' mom's here in ct and I know a lot of ppl who have had vbac, and vba2c too. Good luck! Pick your provider carefully and advocate for yourself! You can do it!!
winter: the most I use in a seat is a fleece. A good way to check if it is safe is to set the seat up to be properly secured with the straps tightened as they would be in normal clothes. If the seat fits with a jacket without moving any straps at all, then it should be ok, but if you need to loosen the straps to fit the coat then it's a no go. I just layer blankets in the car, or for big kids have them put the coat on over the buckled seat backwards, kwim?
Its such a pita though half half the time if we are just running in from the car to a store etc i don't even bother. By the time we stand outside the car getting unbuckled and putting the coat on in the freezing cold, we'd be inside already anyhow.
Wondering if anybody has experience with infant seizures or epilepsy? DD had an EEG this morning and they saw concerning brain activity, but that it was shorter than 10 seconds, so not considered a full seizure. We're meeting with a pediatric neurologist this afternoon and will hopefully have a diagnosis soon. I'm really worried about her, and my pregnancy hormones are making me super emotional about it.
Me: 30 H: 30 Dx: PCOS Married: June 2013 TTC#1: January 2015 BFP #1 8/24/15 | MC 9/3/15 at 6w2d BFP #2: 12/12/15 | DD born 8/29/16 TTC#2: June 2017 BFP #3: 7/15/17 | DS born 3/20/18
@mamaejb go with the pilot. I used to have one before I had kids (TW car wreck, with no seat belts going about 55 into a tree. I'm lucky to be alive) and it was great. The third row isn't to big but it's not uncomfortable. If you're trying to fit three across make sure to bring your seats to the car to see if they'll all fit.
DD born August 17, 2010 DS born October 13, 2014 Baby #3 due March 2018
@mamaejb - I'm always pro-SUV! We have a Traverse and it's actually a little bigger than the Pilot in terms of cargo space. Both cars are great.
Pro tip: consider springing for a model that has captains chairs in the second row rather than a bench seat. The Traverse we originally bought had a bench seat, and it was nearly impossible to access the third row with two car seats. Add in a third car seat and it truly is impossible. We upgraded to one with captains chairs and it's much easier to get to the third row -- still not a breeze, but at least it's an option!
@becausescience: Back in my social work days I worked with a toddler that had Absence Seizures. They were mild and eventually self resolved. Other than that, no experience but I hope you get some answers soon. Thinking of you and your family.
@becausescience so much support headed your way. Hopefully you can take some comfort in knowing that a pediatric neurologist is probably the best appt you can have and hopefully he/she will have some answers
The DX is "atypical absence seizures" and DD will be starting an anti-seizure medication. Once she gets to the full dose they'll check her levels and also we'll monitor any changes in frequency of the seizure episodes. She'll also have an MRI at some point and will need to be sedated for it. It is really scary because while her seizures are very short, they could become longer and more serious. I just worried she'll have one at night and we won't realize it. I'm hoping that the medication works for her and that she'll grow out of them. If anybody has any experience with this type of dx I'd be interested in talking via PM.
Me: 30 H: 30 Dx: PCOS Married: June 2013 TTC#1: January 2015 BFP #1 8/24/15 | MC 9/3/15 at 6w2d BFP #2: 12/12/15 | DD born 8/29/16 TTC#2: June 2017 BFP #3: 7/15/17 | DS born 3/20/18
@becausescience I'm so glad there's a plan in place. I don't blame you at all for being weepy, anything medical involving a child is the absolute worst. I really hope she does grow out of them, and while I have no direct experience with this, PM me if you ever need to vent.
@becausescience no experience but hope it resolves itself! A friends daughter was getting some kind of seizures a long time ago, she went on meds and outgrew them.
if baby needs something heavier at dc, by next winter maybe they'll take them out more? Just get it and don't put on in the car. It's a pita but you get used to it.
@becausescience, my friend and coworker has a daughter who lived with tonic clonic seizures for the majority of her infancy into school age. They managed the seizures with medication, and she is a bright, energetic, and kind little girl with a great sense of independence. Knowing her experiences and what the parents have gone through is really my only relevant knowledge of seizures in general, and I know the kind your DD has are quite a bit different.
With that said, my friend's doctors have really been outstanding in supporting the parents and giving them everything they need to be at ease and feel as "in control" of what they can when they are at home with her. I'm so sorry that you're facing this challenge with your DD, but it sounds like you were on top of her needs and ready to get her what will help improve her daily life. You're already an amazing mom, and your DD is going to be in the right hands. Please feel welcome to share this experience. It can be daunting and isolating to go through anything that impacts your child's health, and you have a community here for support! Sending you calming and comforting T&P!
@becausescience sending you thoughts and prayers, I can't imagine how you're feeling. I hope the plan for meds helps and she outgrows the seizure activity.
@becausescience I can't begin to imagine what you're experiencing! It is absolutely horrible watching our sweet babies go through something. You are strong and powerful. I have nothing to offer except a listening and compassionate ear and it sounds like we all stand with you through this!
How far along are you? I haven't had my appointment yet but from the first day of last period brings me to 5w2d How old are your other kids? DS is 22 months (2 yrs on 9/1)
Current challenges/concerns about being a STM or questions about things your children are going through now? I'm tired, but I know exhaustion will be here soon. It worries me that I won't have enough energy for my DS, and the fact that he is currently boycotting sleeping through the night all of a sudden isn't helping. My first pregnancy with him, I was able to walk on a daily basis or get some form of exercise in. He was a big baby and the weight gain I try to keep minimal since he was a large baby. I'm worried with this pregnancy being sick of winter I won't have that ability. Also working full-time I can't get exercise in as it is. How does everybody else do it?
I also feel the guilt many of you have posted it now, with DS not being the baby anymore. I look at him and I'm sad but I also remember my sister and I being three days in three years apart we grow up to be best friends. He will have a playmate at home once the baby gets bigger. Who doesn't love a sibling? At times ha ha I just worry I relationship will change. DH keep saying DS will be mine and the baby will be yours. I had to Yellit him. I don't want him to take over all the responsibility with DS just because the baby is here. DS and I are psychics all the time together. He is a mama's boy. I don't want that to change.
Current joys/successes/or happy thoughts about being a STM :
I loved being pregnant. And I love being pregnant again. The experience is unbelievable and I just keep remembering the joy when I first saw DS. I can't wait for that with this baby.
Rants/Raves/Randoms/Questions/ How is everybody getting exercising? If you work outside the home from 9 to 5, come home after pick up daycare make dinner and in bed by seven 730. Then mom is exhausted. How does it work? I want to stay healthy throughout this pregnancy as I did last time.
GTKY: How are people reacting to your news (or have you not shared yer)?
We haven't shared the news with anyone yet. Only my best friend, because I was having cramping and I know she would understand and have some guidance. We are waiting for my first appointment is August 10 to confirm everything is good before we tell our parents and siblings. We will wait to tell everyone else until I hit the 12 week mark. I think. We did that with the first pregnancy people got mad that we waited so long ha ha
How far along are you? about 6.5 weeks or so? Have a second dating u/s next Friday. How old are your other kids? 16 months
Current challenges/concerns about being a STM or questions about things your children are going through now?
I don't know how DS is going to take not being an only child anymore.
Current joys/successes/or happy thoughts about being a STM :
on the flip side, I'm so excited to see DS become a big brother and have a little sibling to help take care of and always play with.
Rants/Raves/Randoms/Questions/
DS is currently going through a phase (at least that's what I'm calling it) where at dinner sometimes he'll just spit out his food randomly. We don't think it's because he doesn't like it, because he will then pick it back up off the high chair or from his bib, and he'll eat it in the end, but we ant get him to stop spitting it out. He doesn't do it all the time, and he's really a very good eater, but it's frustrating when we're trying to eat dinner and all he does is spit it out and play with it. Any advice from others about how you've dealt with similar things?
GTKY: How are people reacting to your news (or have you not shared yet)? we haven't shared the news with anyone yet. Waiting until after our u/s next week at least.
How far along are you? 4w6d How old are your other kids? 13 months
Current challenges/concerns about being a STM or questions about things your children are going through now? Biggest concern is how we will have the energy to handle both a toddler and a newborn while both working full-time. One was far more work than I ever imagined (and more joy!), so I'm thinking two will multiply it. I'm sure we'll adapt though.
Current joys/successes/or happy thoughts about being a STM : On the flip side, I'm really glad we will have two so close in age. We are done at two and I'm excited to get them both through the baby years relatively fast so we can have more flexibility as a family to travel and go on adventures. I also feel more excited this time around. Partly because with my first I didn't fully realize how happy having a baby would make me (SO MUCH HAPPY) and partly because I was pretty worried about something going wrong - being as how I'd never been through it before. Now I feel a bit more relaxed about the process - even though I still realize there are no guarantees, having had few problems in pregnancy the first time helps ease my mind this time around.
Rants/Raves/Randoms/Questions/ : DH is pretty much acting like nothing has changed. We were trying and he is excited about it of course, but just going about his same routine - whereas I feel like I'm already consumed with thinking about everything we need to do before #2 arrives. This is really how he is though - he's an adapter, not a planner.
GTKY: How are people reacting to your news (or have you not shared yet)? : I've only told my mom and older sister so far. Both are excited!
(edited How Far Along I am - apparently pregnancy brain has already kicked in and I wrote I was farther along than I actually am. )
@mrsinterweb, our DHs sound a lot alike. This is our third and when we got our BFP, his first reaction was a fart noise, I sh!t you not, but he was jokingly bummed that we weren't in the "trying" phase any more because lawd knows it's his favorite part He's excited, and maybe more so knowing it's our last, but he also acts like nothing has changed.
OH! And regarding the work doubling with two, I'd say that the transition from zero to one was far greater than the transition from one to two. I hope you find it the same and you'll be relieved by how much you are ready for by the time baby arrives!
How far along are you? 4w3d How old are your other kids? 13 months
Current challenges/concerns about being a STM or questions about things your children are going through now? I am worried about having a baby and a toddler. I already have enough trouble chasing my toddler around now. He is so independent and constantly needs to be doing some activity. I just don't know how I am still going to give him as much attention as he is used to.
Current joys/successes/or happy thoughts about being a STM : I am really glad they will be so close together. With DS being so young, I still remember him as a newborn, so I hope that helps with having another baby. I won't have to relearn some things. I also really hope they have a great relationship growing up.
Rants/Raves/Randoms/Questions/ : I started having symptoms as soon as I started producing pregnancy hormones! I didn't have any symptoms with my DS until 7 weeks. I thought I would have a couple of weeks to get used to the idea before being miserable
GTKY: How are people reacting to your news (or have you not shared yet)? : We are being cautious since I had a mc in January, but we have told DH close family (they are super supportive and know what we went through last time) and a few of my close friends that I see regularly.
Married 5/12/2007 DS 6/3/2016 MC 1/12/2017 BFP 7/19/2017 EDD 3/31/2018
Current challenges/concerns about being a STM or questions about things your children are going through now? I worry about how DD will adjust to having a sibling. She currently gets a lot of adult one on one time as she's our first and also the only grandchild for both sets of grandparents. It will be interesting to see how she deals with sharing the limelight!
Current joys/successes/or happy thoughts about being a STM : Really excited to be a STM. I had a challenging experience with DD on many fronts and for a while I was super fearful of having a second. I love that right now I actually feel ready and relaxed about having this baby. I've learned and grown from my experience with my daughter and it has made me a more relaxed and confident mom for this time around.
Rants/Raves/Randoms/Questions/ Appreciate reading about other STM+ thoughts/experiences re: VBACs. I'll have to make a decisions on this and it's good to read about others experience and with this!
GTKY: How are people reacting to your news (or have you not shared yet)? We haven't told anyone yet! My first appt is on friday and I go for all my initial bloodwork tomorrow. We may tell immediate family after Friday but for now I'm enjoying this being just me and my DH that know!
Hi everyone! Just found out today that I'm pregnant, wooohooooo!! Im 5 weeks along and have a 20 month old dd. I am beyond excited to see her become a big sister. I was just saying she needs a friend as she was hugging and kissing the toy Horse at the park yesterday, lol. My only symptom so far is exhaustion and a little dull cramping. So happy to be here, excited for the journey!
Update: Yesterday was DD's first full day of the medication (at a half dose). And her episodes already decreased by half. I'm really hoping that this medication works for her.
Also, I think the STM+ Check In thread is supposed to be weekly. This one is is getting kinda long, but if weekly sounds like too often we could do monthly instead. So, start a new one once August hits. Thoughts?
Me: 30 H: 30 Dx: PCOS Married: June 2013 TTC#1: January 2015 BFP #1 8/24/15 | MC 9/3/15 at 6w2d BFP #2: 12/12/15 | DD born 8/29/16 TTC#2: June 2017 BFP #3: 7/15/17 | DS born 3/20/18
@becausescience that's great news!! Fingers crossed the meds help her make even more improvement!
I think weekly is a good idea in these early days where there might be more questions, and we can always change it to monthly later on if things slow down.
Re: STM+ Check-in
4w4d
How old are your other kids?
DD 11 months
Current challenges/concerns about being a STM or questions about things your children are going through now?
I'm a bit worried about the 2 under 2 - but hoped for two close in age, so it might be a challenge few years.
We are having a hard time transitioning to table food, DD will eat puffs, cheerios, bambas (really any carb), and yogurt melts. Cheese, meat, fruit, veggies are not going as well - but the pediatrician says that she is doing fine and some kids stay on purees longer than others.
Current joys/successes/or happy thoughts about being a STM:
I still really can't believe it - trying not to get my hopes up too much as I know it is still early.
Rants/Raves/Randoms/Questions/
Finished a crib rail cover for DD's crib and I think it turned out pretty good. I might make a couple tweaks so the snaps are a bit tighter. AW picture below:
We haven't shared yet and I'm not sure when we will. Toying with the idea of sharing at DD's first birthday party, but am not sure I want that much in person attention.
@heatherdubrow Sorry I took your comment as snarky - I thought I was clear with looking for carseat safe recommendations, but TOTALLY get wanting to make sure safety is first. It is kinda amazing how many crib bumpers I see in nursery pics (and in TV/movies/commercials too), how many car seats I see in the top part of the cart, or how many kids I see rear facing too early, so I understand wanting to make sure people know.
@LiveNLove44 I thought it looked pretty cool too - but it looks like the company went out of business a few months ago (at least according to the facebook page - not sure why the website is still running). I'm wondering if there are any similar products people recommend.
@chasingroygbiv Winter is SO great isn't it? I'll look into getting a thin fleece jacket for DD and we'll do blankets in the car too. I'm just trying to decide if getting her an actual winter jacket is worth it. She'll only be 15 months in November - will she play outside at daycare that young? I can't see us taking many walks as it gets dark basically by the time I get home.
Dx: PCOS
Married: June 2013
TTC#1: January 2015
BFP #1 8/24/15 | MC 9/3/15 at 6w2d
BFP #2: 12/12/15 | DD born 8/29/16
TTC#2: June 2017
BFP #3: 7/15/17 | DS born 3/20/18
7 wks
How old are your other kids?
2.5 DS
Current challenges/concerns about being a STM or questions about things your children are going through now?
Potty training, caring for c section and toddler care when I am recovering
Current joys/successes/or happy thoughts about being a STM :
I thought I'd be sad that DS won't be an only anymore but we've been trying for a little while here and I have no sad emotions I think a sibling is just what he needs.
Rants/Raves/Randoms/Questions/
My DS is a runner so I'm nervous about being able to keep up with him toward the end, but DH is pretty hands-on so we will have to learn how to deal
GTKY: How are people reacting to your news (or have you not shared yet)?
DH knows and is very excited and is treating me like glass, I don't like it. We've told a few friends that have more than 1 and they are thrilled. Not sure that I'll do a big announcement this time around I feel like I want to keep this pregnancy and new baby all to myself.
4 wkish (just took the test yesterday)
How old are your other kids?
My son is 20 months
Current challenges/concerns about being a STM or questions about things your children are going through now?
A lot.... We were trying so I am excited about it, but this baby means my entire life is about to change and that is kinda shocking. I teach at a small catholic school and my salary isn't much... We've come to realize that my paycheck won't be worth sending two kids to daycare. So I'm leaving my career that I love and it's tough. I tried really hard to find a job in public school this summer because they pay/benefits would be substantially more but no luck. I'm also bummed because my brother is getting married on a cruise in February and now I won't be able to go. Last time it took us like 6 months to get pregnant. This time it was our 2nd month of trying!
Current joys/successes/or happy thoughts about being a STM :
I'm excited to see my son be a big brother. I'm excited to have a tiny baby again.
Rants/Raves/Randoms/Questions/
Any stay at home moms that would like to share some wisdom? Any previous c-section moms that plan to try vbac or have gone through it successfully?
GTKY: How are people reacting to your news (or have you not shared yet)?
Only husband and I know. I expect people will be excited. Not shocked.. They knew we wanted another one soon. I'm hoping my brother and SIL won't be disappointed that I can't make it to the wedding.
If it doesn't work out and you end up having a csection again, I wouldn't worry too much. I found the recovery the second time around to be much easier. My son was only 19 months when I had my daughter, and I think being forced to be relatively active right away was actually a good thing. I recovered really quickly and had much more energy a lot sooner than with my first. I hope that helps!
Thise asking about vbac - not me but my sister had a vbac and she described it as the healing experience she didn't even realize she needed. She switched hospitals and providers... her cs was a classic cascade of interventions including a pre-Edd induction. So she was a great candidate, but going to a hospital that has a good record for vbac is key... a lot will say they allow them but their numbers say otherwise. She used the same midwifery group as me and we both delivered at a great local hospital. There is a strong contingent of more 'crunchy' mom's here in ct and I know a lot of ppl who have had vbac, and vba2c too. Good luck! Pick your provider carefully and advocate for yourself! You can do it!!
winter: the most I use in a seat is a fleece. A good way to check if it is safe is to set the seat up to be properly secured with the straps tightened as they would be in normal clothes. If the seat fits with a jacket without moving any straps at all, then it should be ok, but if you need to loosen the straps to fit the coat then it's a no go.
I just layer blankets in the car, or for big kids have them put the coat on over the buckled seat backwards, kwim?
Its such a pita though half half the time if we are just running in from the car to a store etc i don't even bother. By the time we stand outside the car getting unbuckled and putting the coat on in the freezing cold, we'd be inside already anyhow.
11/18/16 missed m/c 9w1
08/03/17 no hb 8w
@pghctwife @scoogy19 @mountain_girl@chasingroygbiv Thanks for the input - I'm looking for a fleece for DD and plan on asking daycare if she needs something warmer.
------------------------------------------
Wondering if anybody has experience with infant seizures or epilepsy? DD had an EEG this morning and they saw concerning brain activity, but that it was shorter than 10 seconds, so not considered a full seizure. We're meeting with a pediatric neurologist this afternoon and will hopefully have a diagnosis soon. I'm really worried about her, and my pregnancy hormones are making me super emotional about it.
Dx: PCOS
Married: June 2013
TTC#1: January 2015
BFP #1 8/24/15 | MC 9/3/15 at 6w2d
BFP #2: 12/12/15 | DD born 8/29/16
TTC#2: June 2017
BFP #3: 7/15/17 | DS born 3/20/18
How old are your other kids? 4 and 2
Current challenges/concerns about being a STM or questions about things your children are going through now?
We will definitely need to get a bigger car.
Do we have the girls share a room or everyone have there own room? We have space.
Current joys/successes/or happy thoughts about being a STM :
both girls are very very sweet nurturing and get along great (most of the time). I think they'll be great helpers. (I hope).
Rants/Raves/Randoms/Questions/
mini van or Honda Pilot??
GTKY: How are people reacting to your news (or have you not shared yet)? No one but hubby knows yet.
DS born October 13, 2014
Baby #3 due March 2018
Pro tip: consider springing for a model that has captains chairs in the second row rather than a bench seat. The Traverse we originally bought had a bench seat, and it was nearly impossible to access the third row with two car seats. Add in a third car seat and it truly is impossible. We upgraded to one with captains chairs and it's much easier to get to the third row -- still not a breeze, but at least it's an option!
EDD March 12, 2018
The DX is "atypical absence seizures" and DD will be starting an anti-seizure medication. Once she gets to the full dose they'll check her levels and also we'll monitor any changes in frequency of the seizure episodes. She'll also have an MRI at some point and will need to be sedated for it. It is really scary because while her seizures are very short, they could become longer and more serious. I just worried she'll have one at night and we won't realize it. I'm hoping that the medication works for her and that she'll grow out of them. If anybody has any experience with this type of dx I'd be interested in talking via PM.
Dx: PCOS
Married: June 2013
TTC#1: January 2015
BFP #1 8/24/15 | MC 9/3/15 at 6w2d
BFP #2: 12/12/15 | DD born 8/29/16
TTC#2: June 2017
BFP #3: 7/15/17 | DS born 3/20/18
if baby needs something heavier at dc, by next winter maybe they'll take them out more? Just get it and don't put on in the car. It's a pita but you get used to it.
11/18/16 missed m/c 9w1
08/03/17 no hb 8w
With that said, my friend's doctors have really been outstanding in supporting the parents and giving them everything they need to be at ease and feel as "in control" of what they can when they are at home with her. I'm so sorry that you're facing this challenge with your DD, but it sounds like you were on top of her needs and ready to get her what will help improve her daily life. You're already an amazing mom, and your DD is going to be in the right hands. Please feel welcome to share this experience. It can be daunting and isolating to go through anything that impacts your child's health, and you have a community here for support! Sending you calming and comforting T&P!
I haven't had my appointment yet but from the first day of last period brings me to 5w2d
How old are your other kids?
DS is 22 months (2 yrs on 9/1)
Current challenges/concerns about being a STM or questions about things your children are going through now?
I'm tired, but I know exhaustion will be here soon. It worries me that I won't have enough energy for my DS, and the fact that he is currently boycotting sleeping through the night all of a sudden isn't helping. My first pregnancy with him, I was able to walk on a daily basis or get some form of exercise in. He was a big baby and the weight gain I try to keep minimal since he was a large baby. I'm worried with this pregnancy being sick of winter I won't have that ability. Also working full-time I can't get exercise in as it is. How does everybody else do it?
I also feel the guilt many of you have posted it now, with DS not being the baby anymore. I look at him and I'm sad but I also remember my sister and I being three days in three years apart we grow up to be best friends. He will have a playmate at home once the baby gets bigger. Who doesn't love a sibling? At times ha ha I just worry I relationship will change. DH keep saying DS will be mine and the baby will be yours. I had to Yellit him. I don't want him to take over all the responsibility with DS just because the baby is here. DS and I are psychics all the time together. He is a mama's boy. I don't want that to change.
Current joys/successes/or happy thoughts about being a STM :
I loved being pregnant. And I love being pregnant again. The experience is unbelievable and I just keep remembering the joy when I first saw DS. I can't wait for that with this baby.
Rants/Raves/Randoms/Questions/
How is everybody getting exercising? If you work outside the home from 9 to 5, come home after pick up daycare make dinner and in bed by seven 730. Then mom is exhausted. How does it work? I want to stay healthy throughout this pregnancy as I did last time.
GTKY: How are people reacting to your news (or have you not shared yer)?
We haven't shared the news with anyone yet. Only my best friend, because I was having cramping and I know she would understand and have some guidance. We are waiting for my first appointment is August 10 to confirm everything is good before we tell our parents and siblings. We will wait to tell everyone else until I hit the 12 week mark. I think. We did that with the first pregnancy people got mad that we waited so long ha ha
How old are your other kids? 16 months
Current challenges/concerns about being a STM or questions about things your children are going through now?
I don't know how DS is going to take not being an only child anymore.
Current joys/successes/or happy thoughts about being a STM :
on the flip side, I'm so excited to see DS become a big brother and have a little sibling to help take care of and always play with.
Rants/Raves/Randoms/Questions/
DS is currently going through a phase (at least that's what I'm calling it) where at dinner sometimes he'll just spit out his food randomly. We don't think it's because he doesn't like it, because he will then pick it back up off the high chair or from his bib, and he'll eat it in the end, but we ant get him to stop spitting it out. He doesn't do it all the time, and he's really a very good eater, but it's frustrating when we're trying to eat dinner and all he does is spit it out and play with it. Any advice from others about how you've dealt with similar things?
GTKY: How are people reacting to your news (or have you not shared yet)? we haven't shared the news with anyone yet. Waiting until after our u/s next week at least.
How old are your other kids? 13 months
Current challenges/concerns about being a STM or questions about things your children are going through now? Biggest concern is how we will have the energy to handle both a toddler and a newborn while both working full-time. One was far more work than I ever imagined (and more joy!), so I'm thinking two will multiply it. I'm sure we'll adapt though.
Current joys/successes/or happy thoughts about being a STM : On the flip side, I'm really glad we will have two so close in age. We are done at two and I'm excited to get them both through the baby years relatively fast so we can have more flexibility as a family to travel and go on adventures. I also feel more excited this time around. Partly because with my first I didn't fully realize how happy having a baby would make me (SO MUCH HAPPY) and partly because I was pretty worried about something going wrong - being as how I'd never been through it before. Now I feel a bit more relaxed about the process - even though I still realize there are no guarantees, having had few problems in pregnancy the first time helps ease my mind this time around.
Rants/Raves/Randoms/Questions/ : DH is pretty much acting like nothing has changed. We were trying and he is excited about it of course, but just going about his same routine - whereas I feel like I'm already consumed with thinking about everything we need to do before #2 arrives. This is really how he is though - he's an adapter, not a planner.
GTKY: How are people reacting to your news (or have you not shared yet)? : I've only told my mom and older sister so far. Both are excited!
(edited How Far Along I am - apparently pregnancy brain has already kicked in and I wrote I was farther along than I actually am.
Me 39 - DH 41
Married 8/26/07
TTGP #1 Jan '15 -
BFP 9/11/15 - DS born 5/31/16
TTGP #2 July '17 -
CP July '17
Blighted Ovum MC Dec '17
CP June '18
BFP 1/30/19 - EDD 10/13/19
OH! And regarding the work doubling with two, I'd say that the transition from zero to one was far greater than the transition from one to two. I hope you find it the same and you'll be relieved by how much you are ready for by the time baby arrives!
How old are your other kids? 13 months
Current challenges/concerns about being a STM or questions about things your children are going through now? I am worried about having a baby and a toddler. I already have enough trouble chasing my toddler around now. He is so independent and constantly needs to be doing some activity. I just don't know how I am still going to give him as much attention as he is used to.
Current joys/successes/or happy thoughts about being a STM : I am really glad they will be so close together. With DS being so young, I still remember him as a newborn, so I hope that helps with having another baby. I won't have to relearn some things. I also really hope they have a great relationship growing up.
Rants/Raves/Randoms/Questions/ : I started having symptoms as soon as I started producing pregnancy hormones! I didn't have any symptoms with my DS until 7 weeks. I thought I would have a couple of weeks to get used to the idea before being miserable
GTKY: How are people reacting to your news (or have you not shared yet)? : We are being cautious since I had a mc in January, but we have told DH close family (they are super supportive and know what we went through last time) and a few of my close friends that I see regularly.
DS 6/3/2016
MC 1/12/2017
BFP 7/19/2017
EDD 3/31/2018
How old are your other kids? 2yo DD
Current challenges/concerns about being a STM or questions about things your children are going through now?
I worry about how DD will adjust to having a sibling. She currently gets a lot of adult one on one time as she's our first and also the only grandchild for both sets of grandparents. It will be interesting to see how she deals with sharing the limelight!
Current joys/successes/or happy thoughts about being a STM : Really excited to be a STM. I had a challenging experience with DD on many fronts and for a while I was super fearful of having a second. I love that right now I actually feel ready and relaxed about having this baby. I've learned and grown from my experience with my daughter and it has made me a more relaxed and confident mom for this time around.
Rants/Raves/Randoms/Questions/
Appreciate reading about other STM+ thoughts/experiences re: VBACs. I'll have to make a decisions on this and it's good to read about others experience and with this!
GTKY: How are people reacting to your news (or have you not shared yet)?
We haven't told anyone yet! My first appt is on friday and I go for all my initial bloodwork tomorrow. We may tell immediate family after Friday but for now I'm enjoying this being just me and my DH that know!
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Also, I think the STM+ Check In thread is supposed to be weekly. This one is is getting kinda long, but if weekly sounds like too often we could do monthly instead. So, start a new one once August hits. Thoughts?
Dx: PCOS
Married: June 2013
TTC#1: January 2015
BFP #1 8/24/15 | MC 9/3/15 at 6w2d
BFP #2: 12/12/15 | DD born 8/29/16
TTC#2: June 2017
BFP #3: 7/15/17 | DS born 3/20/18
I think weekly is a good idea in these early days where there might be more questions, and we can always change it to monthly later on if things slow down.