How many weeks are you/baby's size? 28 - size of a large eggplant
How do you feel? Pretty run down, but I think that’s due mostly to getting over a bad cold, plus being stuck inside with the kids for what feels like months because of this arctic weather. We’re all going stir crazy! Any appts this week? Today! 28 week appt plus ultrasound with MFM. We’ll also be scheduling my c-section which is NUTS.
Rants/raves/questions? HOW ARE WE REACHING THIRD TRI?? I swear I got my BFP like three weeks ago...
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? I’m just worried about the level of exhaustion that will be reached. With two other little kids running around I really can’t fathom how I’ll get through the early days. My husband is AMAZING and I can lean on him 100%, but let’s be honest, during the time he’s at work it’s alllll me. Eeesh I get anxiety just thinking about it!
How many weeks are you/baby's size? 28 weeks! Hello 3rd Trimester. Baby is the size of an eggplant or a nintendo
How do you feel? Ok I think my congested cough is about gone, at least I hope, I thought it was gone last week but it came back on Friday. Other then that just tired and wish I could sleep for 4 days.
Any appts this week? I have one tomorrow. Hopefully will be able to get an idea on what the birth plan will be since I'm don't have GD. Plus get a few shots
Rants/raves/questions? Is it bad that I'm already ready to be back from maternity leave? I'm really not enjoying having others do my work especially when they have little understanding or nack for it. Yes they can hopefully learn it but it is taking a lot for me not to just jump in and do it myself. Sadly this is just a flaw in my strong willed personality I have.
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? Probably having 2 kids and finding a balance between giving both the attention they want/need.
How many weeks are you/baby's size? 26, baby is the size of Kale?
How do you feel? Things are definitely starting to ache. Sleep is becoming a lot more difficult and I have been experiencing this weird pelvic pain over the past few days. I notice it the most when I walk so I have started to waddle a bit. I'm hoping it's just because I have been much more active these past few weeks and it will go away once I go back to my lazy self after my in-laws leave lol
Any appts this week? Nope, next appt is on the 25th. Rants/raves/questions? I'm getting so excited to go back to Michigan this weekend for my shower! My best friend is flying in from Denver so I get to see her and finally meet her youngest son that was born June. I also get to meet my other friend's little girl that was born in September. So it's going to be a fun baby filled weekend! The weather is also apparently improving a tad in Michigan so hopefully I will dodge the negative degree temperatures. GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? In the short term, I am worriedabout breastfeeding a pumping. First just seeing if I can BF and then if all goes well figuring out a schedule and routine for pumping when I return to work. I think I'm also just nervous about creating a new normal in general and adjusting to the responsibility of parenthood. In the long term I'm worried about being able to create a positive relationship with my kid(s). I have an estranged relationship with both of my parents and I definitely plan to do things much differently then how I was raised.
How many weeks are you/baby's size? 27 weeks. Fruit comparisons are getting ridiculous so I'll just say 14 inches, 2 ish lbs. How do you feel? My heartburn/reflux has been UNREAL the past couple of days. Woke up last night so nauseous and it was painful. Meds are kinda helping but definitely open to any remedies you guys have! Back and tummy are a little sore now, hoping I didn't jinx my last trimester by feeling like my pregnancy has been easy
Any appts this week? Ultrasound Wednesday morning and hospital tour Thursday!
Rants/raves/questions? Gotta talk to fiance about budgeting for baby. Not something I've done before and not something I've wanted to have to do but he seems to be more "let's get me stuff before baby comes because it will be the last time I get to do that". Hes not very good with money and I'm not in a place financially to contribute a super lot each month but I'm not sure where he thinks baby stuff is going to come from if we aren't saving for it
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? Honestly, pregnancy has chilled me out on the worry side of things. Don't know why, but I'm enjoying it. I'm sure it'll hit that I'm going to take a new human home from the hospital that will be with me for the rest of my life soon. Probably most worried about what CAN happen during labor and stuff since I read into the medical sides of things wayyyy too much
How many weeks are you/baby's size? 26 weeks - butternut squash or kale? How do you feel? Like @JJMNO1616 I'm feeling achy too. I wake up in the middle of the night and hurt everywhere as I reposition. Any appts this week? None until the beginning of next month, but birth classes every Tuesday for the next 5 weeks. Rants/raves/questions? I've been waking up on my back a lot which worries me. Should I be worried?? I always start on my side and wedge myself into my pregnancy pillow, but more often than not I end up on my back. GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? I've run the gamut on worries, but I'm currently most concerned about all the stuff I need to get done at work before I leave and even more so - how the transition back to work in the fall is going to go. I'm also worried about postpartum depression.
@priestess619 I hope the money talk with your fiance goes well!
How many weeks are you/baby's size? 24, Cantaloupe
How do you feel? Good! I'm in nesting mode still and taking full advantage of the energy I have for now.
Any appts this week? Routine exam on Friday, also the 1hr glucose test.
Rants/raves/questions? Rant: I assumed I had all of DS' baby clothes (including his going home outfit), but as I was looking for baby clothes to give to a friend, I realized I didn't have any of his newborn, 3mo, or 6 mo clothes. I vaguely remember letting a friend borrow them over a year ago, but I didn't get everything back and am pretty sure I had told her that I didn't need to get all the clothes back. Kicking myself for not keeping his going home outfit! Having to get new clothes for DD isn't too bad since DS was born in September so his clothes probably won't be the right season for DD anyway. Question: With DS my water broke and 9 hours later he was born. I'm a little worried about having my water break while at work. It's a 50 minute drive from work to my hospital in no traffic, will I have enough time to get to the hospital? I only started questioning it because a friend of mine who has a son the same age as DS just gave birth last week and from the time she decided to go to the hospital to the time she delivered was only 30 minutes (cue worry). I work really close to a great University Hospital, so I'm wondering if I should consider delivering there as a back-up. Plan to ask my OB, but what would you do?
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? My biggest worry is mostly dealing with time management once we have 2. It's so easy to get things done in and outside of the house when DH or myself can take care of DS, but with 2 kids it feels like it will be harder for one of us to take care of the kids while the other does stuff. I know we'll work it out, I'm probably just worrying too much about it.
@keeksie84 I've been waking up on my back nightly too. I have read that if it's causing a problem you will wake up due to discomfort--which is probably why I wake up so much at night. At least it gives me a chance to readjust.
How many weeks are you/baby's size? 27 weeks, size of a lettuce (I'm guessing this means head of romaine or similar?)/a camping lantern How do you feel? 18 months pregnant. My sciatica is killing me, I think I have restless leg syndrome, and sleep is becoming difficult. I am so whiny this pregnancy it's ridiculous but I seriously feel handicapped right now. Any appts this week? On Wednesday. I'm also waiting to hear back the results of my 3-hour glucose test since I failed the 1-hour. I should hear today or tomorrow. Rants/raves/questions? I'm honestly glad the holidays are over. I love Christmas, like, a ridiculous amount. But between that and the ten million December birthdays we have it is so nice to get back into a normal routine. GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? Going back to work after my maternity leave. With DS I was very fortunate to be able to stay home with him the first year; the thought of sending a three-month-old to daycare is already stressing me out. Mom guilt for sure, kicking in already.
How many weeks are you/baby's size? 26 weeks! I’m too lazy to check the bump app for the vegetable comparison. How do you feel? Still good—belly is getting in the way more now though. Any appts this week? I had a checkup and the glucose screening today. It ended up taking forever because they didn’t give me the drink until after my check up so I was just sitting waiting for the hour to be up so I could go to the lab and get my blood drawn. Rants/raves/questions? I asked about potentially inducing at 39 weeks so I can have a better plan for my toddler when the time comes. She said it will depend on different factors at the time but that it’s probably feasible. GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? Right now it’s the logistics of going to the hospital and being away from my daughter. I’ve never been away from her overnight and rarely leave her with sitters. Our families are both a plane ride away—and although there are people we could leave her with in a jam, I’d much rather have my parents here to stay with her. Im starting to research elective 39 week inductions—I don’t want to create issues but I like the idea of being able to schedule it.
@kmalls@Dumbgurl04 I didn't realize 3rd tri was at 28 weeks?! Wow! Congrats on rounding third base.
@priestess619 I haven't read into the medical side of labor AT ALL. I think I'm still in denial about the whole birth thing lol. I should probably start to inform myself a bit more.
@keeksie84 My husband is already sick of sleeping next to me because apparently I make horrible grunting noises when I try to re-position myself lol! I also get up at least twice to use the restroom.
@irenejean Would you drive yourself to the hospital while in labor? I have been thinking about that as well. I work probably 30-45 mins from the hospital I plan to deliver at. I'm not so much worried about being able to make it there in time because I'm sure 30-45 min is enough time to get there but my question is... do I drive myself? If I went into labor at work I would have to wait for my husband to come get me if not and that will obviously add more time. I guess if you went into labor and needed to get to a hospital ASAP you just go wherever you can that's not your car! So having a backup doesn't seem like a horrible idea?
@irenejean with your first were you feeling contractions before your water broke? Or any other indication that you were in active labor? Being 50 minutes away from the hospital would stress me out too! I’m sure your OB will have ideas. You might just have to be super cautious and take the day off if you have any inklings of labor. I’d definitely tour that hospital as a back up and check to see if it’s in network!
How do you feel? Mostly fine during the day unless I'm doing a lot, then my legs start to go numb and my feet kill. Otherwise, its all at night. Reflux hits at night as do the aching joints. I've had the aching hips for a while, but now it seems like my knees are starting to hurt at night too. I just can't get comfortable. Any appts this week? Next week...my one hour glucose.
Rants/raves/questions? Nursery is coming along and I'm excited about that. Painting went smoothly, other than initially being given the wrong color and having to return/exchange. We did a two-tone (pic attached) and wanted to do a chair rail bw the colors. It ended up being a fun project for DH and I, but we both realized we are NOT carpenters in the least bit. Putting that border up was a challenge regardless of how many youtube videos we watched. Think it turned out ok, though. Now, just anxious to get the furniture and put it together.
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? What doesn't have me anxious right now? I worry about labor. I worry about how things will go at home with a baby, mainly the routine and sleep. I had a plan in my mind then came across a facebook page dedicated to getting your baby to sleep and realized my whole mentality about creating a "bedtime routine" may actually do more harm than good. One of the things that hit me the most was not depending on feedings to get them to sleep. This is a whole different subject and I'd love STM+ insights, but I feel like I don't know what I'm supposed to be doing now.
@kmalls Hope you're all doing okay with the crazy weather you've been having. Congratulations on getting to the third trimester! @JJMNO1616 I hope you have an amazing time at you@JJMNO1616 @priestess619 My acupuncturist did a treatment that focused on my reflux, and I feel SO much better! Would definitely recommend trying that out if you're interested. @irenejean I hope your glucose test goes well this week!
How many weeks are you/baby's size? 25 weeks.. the size of cauliflower.
How do you feel? I'm feeling fairly well! I definitely feel more pregnant this week.. just getting bigger and definitely more sore. I'm grateful because my pain locations rotate and only last a day or two until the pain starts somewhere else.. just trying to look on the bright side. My acid reflux has significantly improved. I went to see my acupuncturist last week, and I've felt so much better since then.
Any appts this week? Not until the end of the month.
Rants/raves/questions? I have my baby shower date set for the beginning of March. I'm hoping I'm not too uncomfortable by that point, but I am looking forward to spending some time with friends and family. My DH and I are going to try to finish up our registries this week so invites can be sent out.
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? Honestly, at this point my fears right now are the unknowns about when/how baby will arrive. I realize I have no control of this, but it's just scary feeling like she could come at any point. I am now considered high-risk since my last appointment and am somewhat concerned about what that'll entail. I'd like to chat with my OB about this if there will be additional monitoring or appointments (besides a 30-week ultrasound). Trying to go with the flow though and trust that it'll all work out.
@kmalls I have the same worry with just two! @JJMNO1616 my hip joints in my pelvic region hurt/ache when I walk too. I have fully embraced my waddle. @keeksie84 I wedge a pillow in my back to help as well but I will wake up on my back. I try not to worry but sometimes these things are out of our control. I just roll back to my side when I wake. @irenejean good luck on your glucose test! That's also a tough question. I live about 40 minutes from the hospital I'll be delivering at. Multiple times I've been told the second labor goes faster but I haven't thought about it. I think (obviously I really don't know what I'm taking about) that since it's your second delivery you might be able to tell if you can't make it to the other hospital. Deep down If I don't think I would make it I would just go to the closest hospital at that point.
How many weeks are you/baby's size? 28!
How do you feel? I'm tired with a little bit of hip pain when I walk but I'll handle it. It could totally be worse I keep telling myself.
Any appts this week? Nope not until the end of January!
Rants/raves/questions? We moved DD to a big girl bed this weekend. It hasn't been awful but I'm nervous. She's tall and can open doors along with locking them. So I'm concerned about her getting up in the night and doing mischief things while we sleep. I live in a ranch style home so our bedrooms are down a hallway so I put a gate up at night. Plus I'm up every hour or more switching sides because it's killing my hips so I'm also checking on her often. This is also going down while shes getting good on the potty. So the middle of the night "I have to pee pee" and not making it to the potty on time (thank goodness for nighttime pull ups) is starting to make the nights long. Hopefully things get better in the next 3 months because adding a newborn and I might need to take stock in BiggBy.
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? I worry most about being able to juggle two. My soon to be 3 year old will still need to get out and about to do things and I worry about being able to nurse in public and being able to handle two by myself (I'm a SAHM). I mean if she has to potty and I'm nursing the baby how the hell am I going to nurse and get her on the potty and help her wipe her butt. Silly worries but I think about it often.
How many weeks are you/baby's size? 26 - Kale (or my other app says bowling pin hah) How do you feel? Pretty good. FINALLY got over my illness and was able to do a couple workouts and go to prenatal yoga last weekend. Sleep is becoming more difficult though. Should I invest in a body pillow? I never got one the first time around but everyone seems to love them. Any appts this week? Glucose test on Thursday, ick. Rants/raves/questions? It's blowing my mind too that we are in or close to the third tri. I need to get my butt in gear with birth and baby prep, seeing as I've done ... nothing. GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? Mostly the impacts of the new baby on DD, and how much her life will change. It makes me really emotional. I also had a tough day with her alone on Friday (freaking school was closed for 2 weeks! I don't know how SAHMs do it!) with her teething and refusing to nap and I was SO TIRED and felt like I'll never be able to do this with two. I also worry, like @irenejean that our hospital is too far away. When DD1 came, she came QUICK and I almost had her in the car. Since second babies come faster, I don't want to get into the same situation again.
@scuba_chic as far as bedtime routine, best thing to do is just what works for you. As long as you try to do it around the same time every night and keep what you do pretty consistent. So when you make changes like the time are feedings it doesn't fill to much like a change. Also with night time feedings after so many months I would just comfort DD a little by either giving her paci or patting her, then once she went back to sleep I would step out of the room and wait a few minutes and if she cried again I would feed her if she stayed asleep I would go back to bed.
@scuba_chic I started a bedtime routine from day one and I swear by it. We’ve done bath, book, boob/bottle, then bed every night. My husband used to roll his eyes but now bedtime is the easiest time of the day. That being said, I did fall into the dreaded nurse to sleep problem. And naps were...awful (I held her for every nap for like six months). Honestly we somehow just grew out of it—but this time I’m going to really try to avoid those problems. The book The Baby Whisperer was really helpful for me for routines, how long baby should sleep/nap, etc. I need to reread it soon.
@mispanda we moved DS to big boy bed this weekend too! Like you we gated off the hall so he can get from his room to ours, but nowhere else. He just turned two so he’s younger than yours, but I’ve been impressed with MOTN wake ups he just cries for one of us, and in the morning he gets out of bed and comes to find us. I hope his habits stay that way!!
How many weeks are you/baby's size? 25 weeks, cauliflower
How do you feel? Pretty crappy lately. Just feeling enormous and way too pregnant for only 25 weeks. 15 to go?! Ugh. Any appts this week? Just a Doppler and ask questions appt on Friday. Rants/raves/questions? like I said above, DS seemlessly transitioned to his new room and big boy bed this weekend! I was so surprised. We have had his bed set up for a few weeks and kept telling him it was his big boy bed. On Friday night he randomly asked to sleep there, and hasn’t gone back to the crib since! As a result on saturday we finished setting up his room (which looks adorable!) and now I’m excited to get a start on the nursery- or as I currently call it, the poop room (since we left his changing table in there)! GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? Like other moms have mentioned, I’m worried about transitioning from one to two. I think I’ll have a lot of guilt about not focusing on DS enough, and I’m worried that will turn into resentment of baby for taking me away from my first baby.
@mountainsmama I just bought one today! Sleeping is becoming so difficult for me I decided to just bite the bullet and get one. I actually bought mine from Burlington for $30 which is pretty cheap compared to what I have seen.
@mountainsmama I love my body pillow and think it's definitely worth the investment. My DH bought it for me and while I probably would have gotten a cheaper one due to the cost.. it really has been a lifesaver! When I'm traveling and do not have the body pillow, I can certainly tell a difference in the quality of my sleep and level of aches. I would highly recommend, and I will likely continue to use it after pregnancy because I love it so much.
How many weeks are you/baby's size? 27 weeks and lettuce How do you feel? Like poop. We have been so sick since Thanksgiving on and off. Thought we were all better now I'm sneezing and coughing again. Seems like I have no immunity this pregnancy. Any appts this week? 4 week check with glucose test Rants/raves/questions? I feel so bad that I'm 27 weeks and barely think about my baby. I'm just so busy with my 3 and 5 year old plus us all being sick and holidays were crazy. Feel guilty I haven't tried to savor this time more since it may be my last. But puking again hasn't helped either. Sorry just whining. GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood
That I won't have enough time for all 3 kids. That one or two will start to resent me or act out because my attention will be so divided. My 5 year old keeps saying she doesnt get enough mommy time. She is being a little dramatic lol but hard to keep up with house and giving them enough attention.
@mispanda omg totally feel you! Had my 2nd then my 1st decided to potty train. I can't count how many times I've been nursing then had to wipe my other kids butt at the same time It works out eventually but at first its like holy crap this is multi tasking. Then it turns into new problems like all of a sudden my 5 year old is afraid of going in our bathroom alone. So now have to accompany her while my 3 year old cries because she wants me to play or make food or she needs help going potty. So it never ends you just adjust to their needs non stop lol. Hoping this phase is short.....it all works out I keep telling myself.
How do you feel? Eh. Not bad, primary complaint is being uncomfortable.
Any appts this week? Yep, Thursday - I have seen ladies mention level 2 US and maybe that’s what I have? I go to the imaging clinic where I had AS, it only takes 45 minutes or so, but they’re taking tons of measurements. See my OB afterwards and hoping we schedule C section. Will actually get my procrastinating self in for glucose test tomorrow.
Rants/raves/questions? Nada
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? I am nervous about having twins. I’m more nervous about how DH and I adjust, communicate, etc. Adding a baby (or 2) is tough on a relationship. We have a solid marriage, but we aren’t currently sleep deprived and stressed out.
@JJMNO1616 I was planning on asking coworkers if they would be comfortable driving me to the hospital should things start happening while I was at work. I haven't gotten around to actually asking people yet, but I should probably do that soon! When my water broke with DS, contractions started right away and I don't think I could have driven myself to the hospital safely, and that was only a 20 minute drive. It might be good to have a plan in place in case you can't drive yourself to the hospital.
@rmmorris I had early labor start at 34 weeks, but he stayed in until 39 + 2. The whole time I kept having mild contractions and kept progressing, there wasn't any definite sign that I was in labor until my water broke. I guess we'll see how this pregnancy goes, but I might start leave a little early if I have the same early labor experience that I had with DS.
@scuba_chic Sleep patterns were a huge concern for me too when we had DS. What was the most surprising to me was how DS' needs changed so much over time, especially in that first year. In the early days, we definitely relied on feedings to get him to sleep, but then he would fall asleep as soon as he started eating, so we realized he probably didn't need to eat to sleep, so we started using the pacifier. We also used halo swaddles, then moved to the Merlin Magic sleepsuit, then transitioned to sleep sacks. Basically, you'll try things, find something that works, then your LO will change you'll do different things until something works. So many things change in the first year, but then it stabilizes a bit. A bedtime routine really helped with us, even though we had to make changes over time. DS has been great at adjusting to our bedtime routine changes overall.
@scuba_chic@irenejean I was going to say the same thing - little kids are constantly changing so their routines do too. You think you have something nailed down then all of a sudden there's a sleep regression or they roll onto their tummies or start teething - so how to best dial in sleep is a moving target. We kept the bedtime routine the same (bath, pjs, book and nurse/ bottle, rocking, bed) but incorporated other techniques and outfits and what not along the way (looking at you, Magic Merlin suit). For us, bedtimes have always been easier than naps, and I still fight my LO with daytime napping now. Sleep is SUCH a tricky and child-dependent issue.
I also think it's totally normal/fine to nurse them to sleep in the beginning because they are so sleepy allll the time. But eventually you want to look out for that "drowsy but awake" sweet spot.
I'm late I'm late I'm late! Hey Monday ladies!!! @JJMNO1616 The biggest piece of advice I can give someone at this stage worried about BFing is don't borrow trouble! If you can't help but be anxious, I recommend doing some research to help you feel better prepared. I read a few books and joined some online support groups. There's a facebook group that is AMAZING, Working Moms Who Make Breastfeeding Work. It has people at all stages of the breastfeeding process in it, pregnant FTMs, moms currently working/pumping/nursing, and moms (like me...) not currently pumping or nursing... but will be soon and has experience with it! @priestess619 that weird worry about stuff that can happen during delivery never goes away! I still have the same worried with my third delivery @irenejean I would probably stick with the same hospital (my hospital is about the same distance from work). But my labors are pretty slow. I know I'll have time to get to the hospital by the time I figure out what's going on. @kaymaroo I LOVE Christmas but man am I with you. I'm glad December is over and I'm ready to move on with January. Nearly all of our Christmas decor is packed up and put away. Just a few stragglers left... ahem outside lights... ahem... @scuba_chic, LOVE the nursery!!!! On the topic of nighttime routines and feeding to sleep...Ugh, this is one of the things that people often passionately share their experience as though it works for everyone. It doesn't. I was like you, read the literature and convinced that I need to get a routine in place and figure out how to put my kid down 'sleepy but awake' so as to not screw him up. Guess what? I spent WAY too much energy and anxiety on this. Every kid is different. What one kid needs is not the same as another. With DS we nursed to sleep for nearly 14 months... every single nap/bedtime that Mommy put him down (I didn't mind) and, because humans are smart and flexible, he would fall asleep just fine with other methods at daycare and with Daddy. One thing he would never do? Go to sleep when 'sleepy but awake.' That child would scream if we, anyone, ever put him down before he was asleep. I was certain I had screwed up along the way and broken my child but flash forward to DD and survival do-what-i-know-mode kicked in and I did the exact same things with her (because, easier), nursing to sleep, she she was a completely different child. She I could nurse, gently lie her down while she was LOOKING at me and she'd fall asleep... I did nothing different yet she more quickly adapted to the nighttime routine/sleepy but awake thing. Moral of the story: Don't stress about creating bad habits. Do what works for you as long as it works for you. If it doesn't, then change... but until then, don't stress about what you're doing! @Mispanda, we keep a training potty in DS's room and if he wakes needing to pee, its right next to his bed. It's helped us get to the point where if we removed it at this point, he'd be able to make it to the bathroom! We've just been lazy about getting rid of the training potty... Might be something to consider! @lesliegolem I'm not savoring this pregnancy at all lol. I totally thought I'd be all, "aww this is the last time [insert cute pregnancy thing.]" Instead I'm all "mother of god YES this is the last time [insert miserable pregnancy thing.]"
How many weeks are you/baby's size? 26 weeks, eggplant!
How do you feel? I feel pretty good. I'm getting to the physically uncomfortable phase. My back hurts pretty routinely and I've decided that it is now DH's job to pick up all things below waist level
Any appts this week? No appointments for two weeks! Had my level II/echo last week and all is good!!!
Rants/raves/questions? Rant: OMFG three pregnancies has wrecked my body. My core strength (both abs and back) are SO WEAK and it makes me so sore (my own fault... I didn't do much to build strength back after my first two kids). This is significantly affecting leakage for me right now and I HATE HATE HATE it. The weight of the baby plus weak core is not a good combination... I can't help but wonder if I'll have any bladder control left by the time I deliver this kid!
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? Honestly, right now i'm mostly worried about DH. For the most part, I'm the most high-strung anxious one... except when it comes to our kids. For some reason, the man who is never anxious, gets bad anxiety about our kids and I'm nervous how he's going to do with another one in the mix. I'm also starting to dread the whole returning to work and pumping game... It's the thing I hate most about the first year after my kids are born.
DS: EDD, December 19th, 2014. Born, December 19th, 2014! DD: EDD, July 18th, 2016. Born, July 19th, 2016!
"You shouldn’t sleep train at all, before a year, before 6 months, or before 4 months, but if you wait too late, your baby will never be able to sleep without you. College-aged children never need to be nursed, rocked, helped to sleep, so don’t worry about any bad habits. Nursing, rocking, singing, swaddling, etc to sleep are all bad habits and should be stopped immediately.
Naps should only be taken in the bed, never in a swing, car seat, stroller, or when worn. Letting them sleep in the car seat or swing will damage their skulls. If your baby has trouble falling asleep in the bed, put them in a swing, car seat, stroller, or wear them. Use the crib only for sleep and keep it free of distractions. If the baby is having trouble adjusting to the crib, have them play in it first. If the baby wakes up at night and wants to play, put fun toys in the crib to distract them.
Put the baby in a nursery, bed in your room, in your bed. Co-sleeping is the best way to get sleep, except that it can kill your baby, so never, ever do it. If your baby doesn't die, you will need to bed-share until college.
Keep the room warm, but not too warm. Swaddle the baby tightly, but not too tightly. Put them on their backs to sleep, but don't let them be on their backs too long or they will be developmentally delayed. Give them a pacifier to reduce SIDS. Be careful about pacifiers because they can cause nursing problems and stop your baby from sleeping soundly. If your baby sleeps too soundly, they’ll die of SIDS.
Don’t let your baby sleep too long, except when they’ve been napping too much, then you should wake them. Never wake a sleeping baby. Any baby problem can be solved by putting them to bed earlier, even if they are waking up too early. If your baby wakes up too early, put them to bed later or cut out a nap. Don’t let them nap after 5 p.m. Sleep begets sleep, so try to get your child to sleep as much as possible. Put the baby to bed awake but drowsy. Don't wake the baby if it fell asleep while nursing.
You should start a routine and keep track of everything. Don’t watch the clock. Put them on a schedule. Scheduling will make your life impossible because they will constantly be thrown off of it and you will become a prisoner in your home.
Using the "Cry It Out" method (CIO) will make them think they’ve been abandoned and will be eaten by a lion shortly. It also causes brain damage. Not getting enough sleep will cause behavior and mental problems, so be sure to put them to sleep by any means necessary, especially CIO, which is the most effective form. CIO is cruel beyond belief and the only thing that truly works because parents are a distraction.
Formula and solid foods will help the baby sleep longer. Solid foods shouldn’t be given at night because they might wake the baby. Don't stop the baby from nursing when asleep. Be wary of night feeds. If you respond too quickly with food or comfort, your baby is manipulating you. Babies can’t manipulate. Babies older than six months can manipulate.
Sleep when the baby sleeps. Clean when the baby cleans. Don’t worry. Stress causes your baby stress and a stressed baby won't sleep."
DS: EDD, December 19th, 2014. Born, December 19th, 2014! DD: EDD, July 18th, 2016. Born, July 19th, 2016!
@ladythrice Hilarious. That about sums up the majority of information I get. Always contradictory. Thanks for the laugh!
I really wasn't overthinking it all until I read something that came across my facebook feed. From the consensus, it sounds like every baby is different and I'll just have to figure mine out as time goes. I appreciate everyone's feedback.
@g_amoss@dan0081 thanks for the heartburn input! Looking into acupuncture insurance wise. Don't take vitamins before bed but gotta stop eating so close to bedtime I think ! I've been trying watered down apple cider vinegar and it's helped tremendously but definitely don't want to drink too much of it .
@ladythrice I'm such a borderline hypochondriac and creepily fascinated with medical stuff that I read so far into it. Terrifies me , but I'm pretty sure I could deliver my own baby at this point (totally, absolutely kidding, I've just scoured the internet heaps).
Re: Monday Ticker Change - 1/8
28 - size of a large eggplant
How do you feel?
Pretty run down, but I think that’s due mostly to getting over a bad cold, plus being stuck inside with the kids for what feels like months because of this arctic weather. We’re all going stir crazy!
Any appts this week?
Today! 28 week appt plus ultrasound with MFM. We’ll also be scheduling my c-section which is NUTS.
Rants/raves/questions?
HOW ARE WE REACHING THIRD TRI?? I swear I got my BFP like three weeks ago...
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood?
I’m just worried about the level of exhaustion that will be reached. With two other little kids running around I really can’t fathom how I’ll get through the early days. My husband is AMAZING and I can lean on him 100%, but let’s be honest, during the time he’s at work it’s alllll me. Eeesh I get anxiety just thinking about it!
28 weeks! Hello 3rd Trimester. Baby is the size of an eggplant or a nintendo
How do you feel?
Ok I think my congested cough is about gone, at least I hope, I thought it was gone last week but it came back on Friday. Other then that just tired and wish I could sleep for 4 days.
Any appts this week?
I have one tomorrow. Hopefully will be able to get an idea on what the birth plan will be since I'm don't have GD. Plus get a few shots
Rants/raves/questions?
Is it bad that I'm already ready to be back from maternity leave? I'm really not enjoying having others do my work especially when they have little understanding or nack for it. Yes they can hopefully learn it but it is taking a lot for me not to just jump in and do it myself. Sadly this is just a flaw in my strong willed personality I have.
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood?
Probably having 2 kids and finding a balance between giving both the attention they want/need.
26, baby is the size of Kale?
How do you feel?
Things are definitely starting to ache. Sleep is becoming a lot more difficult and I have been experiencing this weird pelvic pain over the past few days. I notice it the most when I walk so I have started to waddle a bit.
Any appts this week?
Nope, next appt is on the 25th.
Rants/raves/questions?
I'm getting so excited to go back to Michigan this weekend for my shower! My best friend is flying in from Denver so I get to see her and finally meet her youngest son that was born June. I also get to meet my other friend's little girl that was born in September. So it's going to be a fun baby filled weekend! The weather is also apparently improving a tad in Michigan so hopefully I will dodge the negative degree temperatures.
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood?
In the short term, I am worried about breastfeeding a pumping. First just seeing if I can BF and then if all goes well figuring out a schedule and routine for pumping when I return to work. I think I'm also just nervous about creating a new normal in general and adjusting to the responsibility of parenthood. In the long term I'm worried about being able to create a positive relationship with my kid(s). I have an estranged relationship with both of my parents and I definitely plan to do things much differently then how I was raised.
How many weeks are you/baby's size?
27 weeks. Fruit comparisons are getting ridiculous so I'll just say 14 inches, 2 ish lbs.
How do you feel?
My heartburn/reflux has been UNREAL the past couple of days. Woke up last night so nauseous and it was painful. Meds are kinda helping but definitely open to any remedies you guys have!
Back and tummy are a little sore now, hoping I didn't jinx my last trimester by feeling like my pregnancy has been easy
Any appts this week?
Ultrasound Wednesday morning and hospital tour Thursday!
Rants/raves/questions?
Gotta talk to fiance about budgeting for baby. Not something I've done before and not something I've wanted to have to do but he seems to be more "let's get me stuff before baby comes because it will be the last time I get to do that". Hes not very good with money and I'm not in a place financially to contribute a super lot each month but I'm not sure where he thinks baby stuff is going to come from if we aren't saving for it
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood?
Honestly, pregnancy has chilled me out on the worry side of things. Don't know why, but I'm enjoying it. I'm sure it'll hit that I'm going to take a new human home from the hospital that will be with me for the rest of my life soon. Probably most worried about what CAN happen during labor and stuff since I read into the medical sides of things wayyyy too much
26 weeks - butternut squash or kale?
How do you feel?
Like @JJMNO1616 I'm feeling achy too. I wake up in the middle of the night and hurt everywhere as I reposition.
Any appts this week?
None until the beginning of next month, but birth classes every Tuesday for the next 5 weeks.
Rants/raves/questions?
I've been waking up on my back a lot which worries me. Should I be worried?? I always start on my side and wedge myself into my pregnancy pillow, but more often than not I end up on my back.
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood?
I've run the gamut on worries, but I'm currently most concerned about all the stuff I need to get done at work before I leave and even more so - how the transition back to work in the fall is going to go. I'm also worried about postpartum depression.
@JJMNO1616 I hope you have a super fun shower!
@priestess619 I hope the money talk with your fiance goes well!
How many weeks are you/baby's size?
24, Cantaloupe
How do you feel?
Good! I'm in nesting mode still and taking full advantage of the energy I have for now.
Any appts this week?
Routine exam on Friday, also the 1hr glucose test.
Rants/raves/questions?
Rant: I assumed I had all of DS' baby clothes (including his going home outfit), but as I was looking for baby clothes to give to a friend, I realized I didn't have any of his newborn, 3mo, or 6 mo clothes. I vaguely remember letting a friend borrow them over a year ago, but I didn't get everything back and am pretty sure I had told her that I didn't need to get all the clothes back. Kicking myself for not keeping his going home outfit! Having to get new clothes for DD isn't too bad since DS was born in September so his clothes probably won't be the right season for DD anyway.
Question: With DS my water broke and 9 hours later he was born. I'm a little worried about having my water break while at work. It's a 50 minute drive from work to my hospital in no traffic, will I have enough time to get to the hospital? I only started questioning it because a friend of mine who has a son the same age as DS just gave birth last week and from the time she decided to go to the hospital to the time she delivered was only 30 minutes (cue worry). I work really close to a great University Hospital, so I'm wondering if I should consider delivering there as a back-up. Plan to ask my OB, but what would you do?
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood?
My biggest worry is mostly dealing with time management once we have 2. It's so easy to get things done in and outside of the house when DH or myself can take care of DS, but with 2 kids it feels like it will be harder for one of us to take care of the kids while the other does stuff. I know we'll work it out, I'm probably just worrying too much about it.
How many weeks are you/baby's size?
27 weeks, size of a lettuce (I'm guessing this means head of romaine or similar?)/a camping lantern
How do you feel?
18 months pregnant. My sciatica is killing me, I think I have restless leg syndrome, and sleep is becoming difficult. I am so whiny this pregnancy it's ridiculous but I seriously feel handicapped right now.
Any appts this week?
On Wednesday. I'm also waiting to hear back the results of my 3-hour glucose test since I failed the 1-hour. I should hear today or tomorrow.
Rants/raves/questions?
I'm honestly glad the holidays are over. I love Christmas, like, a ridiculous amount. But between that and the ten million December birthdays we have it is so nice to get back into a normal routine.
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood?
Going back to work after my maternity leave. With DS I was very fortunate to be able to stay home with him the first year; the thought of sending a three-month-old to daycare is already stressing me out. Mom guilt for sure, kicking in already.
26 weeks! I’m too lazy to check the bump app for the vegetable comparison.
How do you feel?
Still good—belly is getting in the way more now though.
Any appts this week?
I had a checkup and the glucose screening today. It ended up taking forever because they didn’t give me the drink until after my check up so I was just sitting waiting for the hour to be up so I could go to the lab and get my blood drawn.
Rants/raves/questions?
I asked about potentially inducing at 39 weeks so I can have a better plan for my toddler when the time comes. She said it will depend on different factors at the time but that it’s probably feasible.
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood?
Right now it’s the logistics of going to the hospital and being away from my daughter. I’ve never been away from her overnight and rarely leave her with sitters. Our families are both a plane ride away—and although there are people we could leave her with in a jam, I’d much rather have my parents here to stay with her. Im starting to research elective 39 week inductions—I don’t want to create issues but I like the idea of being able to schedule it.
@priestess619 I haven't read into the medical side of labor AT ALL. I think I'm still in denial about the whole birth thing lol. I should probably start to inform myself a bit more.
@keeksie84 My husband is already sick of sleeping next to me because apparently I make horrible grunting noises when I try to re-position myself lol! I also get up at least twice to use the restroom.
@irenejean Would you drive yourself to the hospital while in labor? I have been thinking about that as well. I work probably 30-45 mins from the hospital I plan to deliver at. I'm not so much worried about being able to make it there in time because I'm sure 30-45 min is enough time to get there but my question is... do I drive myself? If I went into labor at work I would have to wait for my husband to come get me if not and that will obviously add more time. I guess if you went into labor and needed to get to a hospital ASAP you just go wherever you can that's not your car! So having a backup doesn't seem like a horrible idea?
26; kale
How do you feel?
Mostly fine during the day unless I'm doing a lot, then my legs start to go numb and my feet kill. Otherwise, its all at night. Reflux hits at night as do the aching joints. I've had the aching hips for a while, but now it seems like my knees are starting to hurt at night too. I just can't get comfortable.
Any appts this week?
Next week...my one hour glucose.
Rants/raves/questions?
Nursery is coming along and I'm excited about that. Painting went smoothly, other than initially being given the wrong color and having to return/exchange. We did a two-tone (pic attached) and wanted to do a chair rail bw the colors. It ended up being a fun project for DH and I, but we both realized we are NOT carpenters in the least bit. Putting that border up was a challenge regardless of how many youtube videos we watched. Think it turned out ok, though. Now, just anxious to get the furniture and put it together.
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood?
What doesn't have me anxious right now? I worry about labor. I worry about how things will go at home with a baby, mainly the routine and sleep. I had a plan in my mind then came across a facebook page dedicated to getting your baby to sleep and realized my whole mentality about creating a "bedtime routine" may actually do more harm than good. One of the things that hit me the most was not depending on feedings to get them to sleep. This is a whole different subject and I'd love STM+ insights, but I feel like I don't know what I'm supposed to be doing now.
@JJMNO1616 I hope you have an amazing time at you@JJMNO1616
@priestess619 My acupuncturist did a treatment that focused on my reflux, and I feel SO much better! Would definitely recommend trying that out if you're interested.
@irenejean I hope your glucose test goes well this week!
How many weeks are you/baby's size? 25 weeks.. the size of cauliflower.
How do you feel? I'm feeling fairly well! I definitely feel more pregnant this week.. just getting bigger and definitely more sore. I'm grateful because my pain locations rotate and only last a day or two until the pain starts somewhere else.. just trying to look on the bright side.
Any appts this week? Not until the end of the month.
Rants/raves/questions? I have my baby shower date set for the beginning of March. I'm hoping I'm not too uncomfortable by that point, but I am looking forward to spending some time with friends and family. My DH and I are going to try to finish up our registries this week so invites can be sent out.
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? Honestly, at this point my fears right now are the unknowns about when/how baby will arrive. I realize I have no control of this, but it's just scary feeling like she could come at any point. I am now considered high-risk since my last appointment and am somewhat concerned about what that'll entail. I'd like to chat with my OB about this if there will be additional monitoring or appointments (besides a 30-week ultrasound). Trying to go with the flow though and trust that it'll all work out.
@JJMNO1616 my hip joints in my pelvic region hurt/ache when I walk too. I have fully embraced my waddle.
@keeksie84 I wedge a pillow in my back to help as well but I will wake up on my back. I try not to worry but sometimes these things are out of our control. I just roll back to my side when I wake.
@irenejean good luck on your glucose test! That's also a tough question. I live about 40 minutes from the hospital I'll be delivering at. Multiple times I've been told the second labor goes faster but I haven't thought about it. I think (obviously I really don't know what I'm taking about) that since it's your second delivery you might be able to tell if you can't make it to the other hospital. Deep down If I don't think I would make it I would just go to the closest hospital at that point.
How many weeks are you/baby's size? 28!
How do you feel? I'm tired with a little bit of hip pain when I walk but I'll handle it. It could totally be worse I keep telling myself.
Any appts this week? Nope not until the end of January!
Rants/raves/questions? We moved DD to a big girl bed this weekend. It hasn't been awful but I'm nervous. She's tall and can open doors along with locking them. So I'm concerned about her getting up in the night and doing mischief things while we sleep. I live in a ranch style home so our bedrooms are down a hallway so I put a gate up at night. Plus I'm up every hour or more switching sides because it's killing my hips so I'm also checking on her often. This is also going down while shes getting good on the potty. So the middle of the night "I have to pee pee" and not making it to the potty on time (thank goodness for nighttime pull ups) is starting to make the nights long. Hopefully things get better in the next 3 months because adding a newborn and I might need to take stock in BiggBy.
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? I worry most about being able to juggle two. My soon to be 3 year old will still need to get out and about to do things and I worry about being able to nurse in public and being able to handle two by myself (I'm a SAHM). I mean if she has to potty and I'm nursing the baby how the hell am I going to nurse and get her on the potty and help her wipe her butt. Silly worries but I think about it often.
26 - Kale (or my other app says bowling pin hah)
How do you feel?
Pretty good. FINALLY got over my illness and was able to do a couple workouts and go to prenatal yoga last weekend. Sleep is becoming more difficult though. Should I invest in a body pillow? I never got one the first time around but everyone seems to love them.
Any appts this week?
Glucose test on Thursday, ick.
Rants/raves/questions?
It's blowing my mind too that we are in or close to the third tri. I need to get my butt in gear with birth and baby prep, seeing as I've done ... nothing.
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood?
Mostly the impacts of the new baby on DD, and how much her life will change. It makes me really emotional. I also had a tough day with her alone on Friday (freaking school was closed for 2 weeks! I don't know how SAHMs do it!) with her teething and refusing to nap and I was SO TIRED and felt like I'll never be able to do this with two.
I also worry, like @irenejean that our hospital is too far away. When DD1 came, she came QUICK and I almost had her in the car. Since second babies come faster, I don't want to get into the same situation again.
How many weeks are you/baby's size?
25 weeks, cauliflower
How do you feel?
Pretty crappy lately. Just feeling enormous and way too pregnant for only 25 weeks. 15 to go?! Ugh.
Any appts this week?
Just a Doppler and ask questions appt on Friday.
Rants/raves/questions?
like I said above, DS seemlessly transitioned to his new room and big boy bed this weekend! I was so surprised. We have had his bed set up for a few weeks and kept telling him it was his big boy bed. On Friday night he randomly asked to sleep there, and hasn’t gone back to the crib since! As a result on saturday we finished setting up his room (which looks adorable!) and now I’m excited to get a start on the nursery- or as I currently call it, the poop room (since we left his changing table in there)!
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood?
Like other moms have mentioned, I’m worried about transitioning from one to two. I think I’ll have a lot of guilt about not focusing on DS enough, and I’m worried that will turn into resentment of baby for taking me away from my first baby.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MQVHYDU/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
27 weeks and lettuce
How do you feel?
Like poop. We have been so sick since Thanksgiving on and off. Thought we were all better now I'm sneezing and coughing again. Seems like I have no immunity this pregnancy.
Any appts this week?
4 week check with glucose test
Rants/raves/questions?
I feel so bad that I'm 27 weeks and barely think about my baby. I'm just so busy with my 3 and 5 year old plus us all being sick and holidays were crazy. Feel guilty I haven't tried to savor this time more since it may be my last. But puking again hasn't helped either. Sorry just whining.
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood
That I won't have enough time for all 3 kids. That one or two will start to resent me or act out because my attention will be so divided. My 5 year old keeps saying she doesnt get enough mommy time. She is being a little dramatic lol but hard to keep up with house and giving them enough attention.
@priestess619 - if you take vitamins at bedtime, try a different time. I finally figured out that was a major contributor to waking up choking on bile
@rmmorris - yes to big bellies! I have actually bumped into people because I don’t realize how big I am lol!
@scuba_chic - love the nursery!
27 weeks
How do you feel?
Eh. Not bad, primary complaint is being uncomfortable.
Any appts this week?
Yep, Thursday - I have seen ladies mention level 2 US and maybe that’s what I have? I go to the imaging clinic where I had AS, it only takes 45 minutes or so, but they’re taking tons of measurements. See my OB afterwards and hoping we schedule C section. Will actually get my procrastinating self in for glucose test tomorrow.
Rants/raves/questions?
Nada
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood?
I am nervous about having twins. I’m more nervous about how DH and I adjust, communicate, etc. Adding a baby (or 2) is tough on a relationship. We have a solid marriage, but we aren’t currently sleep deprived and stressed out.
@rmmorris I had early labor start at 34 weeks, but he stayed in until 39 + 2. The whole time I kept having mild contractions and kept progressing, there wasn't any definite sign that I was in labor until my water broke. I guess we'll see how this pregnancy goes, but I might start leave a little early if I have the same early labor experience that I had with DS.
@scuba_chic Sleep patterns were a huge concern for me too when we had DS. What was the most surprising to me was how DS' needs changed so much over time, especially in that first year. In the early days, we definitely relied on feedings to get him to sleep, but then he would fall asleep as soon as he started eating, so we realized he probably didn't need to eat to sleep, so we started using the pacifier. We also used halo swaddles, then moved to the Merlin Magic sleepsuit, then transitioned to sleep sacks. Basically, you'll try things, find something that works, then your LO will change you'll do different things until something works. So many things change in the first year, but then it stabilizes a bit. A bedtime routine really helped with us, even though we had to make changes over time. DS has been great at adjusting to our bedtime routine changes overall.
I also think it's totally normal/fine to nurse them to sleep in the beginning because they are so sleepy allll the time. But eventually you want to look out for that "drowsy but awake" sweet spot.
@JJMNO1616 The biggest piece of advice I can give someone at this stage worried about BFing is don't borrow trouble! If you can't help but be anxious, I recommend doing some research to help you feel better prepared. I read a few books and joined some online support groups. There's a facebook group that is AMAZING, Working Moms Who Make Breastfeeding Work. It has people at all stages of the breastfeeding process in it, pregnant FTMs, moms currently working/pumping/nursing, and moms (like me...) not currently pumping or nursing... but will be soon and has experience with it!
@priestess619 that weird worry about stuff that can happen during delivery never goes away! I still have the same worried with my third delivery
@irenejean I would probably stick with the same hospital (my hospital is about the same distance from work). But my labors are pretty slow. I know I'll have time to get to the hospital by the time I figure out what's going on.
@kaymaroo I LOVE Christmas but man am I with you. I'm glad December is over and I'm ready to move on with January. Nearly all of our Christmas decor is packed up and put away. Just a few stragglers left... ahem outside lights... ahem...
@scuba_chic, LOVE the nursery!!!! On the topic of nighttime routines and feeding to sleep...Ugh, this is one of the things that people often passionately share their experience as though it works for everyone. It doesn't. I was like you, read the literature and convinced that I need to get a routine in place and figure out how to put my kid down 'sleepy but awake' so as to not screw him up. Guess what? I spent WAY too much energy and anxiety on this. Every kid is different. What one kid needs is not the same as another. With DS we nursed to sleep for nearly 14 months... every single nap/bedtime that Mommy put him down (I didn't mind) and, because humans are smart and flexible, he would fall asleep just fine with other methods at daycare and with Daddy. One thing he would never do? Go to sleep when 'sleepy but awake.' That child would scream if we, anyone, ever put him down before he was asleep. I was certain I had screwed up along the way and broken my child but flash forward to DD and survival do-what-i-know-mode kicked in and I did the exact same things with her (because, easier), nursing to sleep, she she was a completely different child. She I could nurse, gently lie her down while she was LOOKING at me and she'd fall asleep... I did nothing different yet she more quickly adapted to the nighttime routine/sleepy but awake thing. Moral of the story: Don't stress about creating bad habits. Do what works for you as long as it works for you. If it doesn't, then change... but until then, don't stress about what you're doing!
@Mispanda, we keep a training potty in DS's room and if he wakes needing to pee, its right next to his bed. It's helped us get to the point where if we removed it at this point, he'd be able to make it to the bathroom! We've just been lazy about getting rid of the training potty... Might be something to consider!
@lesliegolem I'm not savoring this pregnancy at all lol. I totally thought I'd be all, "aww this is the last time [insert cute pregnancy thing.]" Instead I'm all "mother of god YES this is the last time [insert miserable pregnancy thing.]"
How many weeks are you/baby's size? 26 weeks, eggplant!
How do you feel? I feel pretty good. I'm getting to the physically uncomfortable phase. My back hurts pretty routinely and I've decided that it is now DH's job to pick up all things below waist level
Any appts this week? No appointments for two weeks! Had my level II/echo last week and all is good!!!
Rants/raves/questions? Rant: OMFG three pregnancies has wrecked my body. My core strength (both abs and back) are SO WEAK and it makes me so sore (my own fault... I didn't do much to build strength back after my first two kids). This is significantly affecting leakage for me right now
GTKY: what’s your biggest worry/source of anxiety about impending motherhood? Honestly, right now i'm mostly worried about DH. For the most part, I'm the most high-strung anxious one... except when it comes to our kids. For some reason, the man who is never anxious, gets bad anxiety about our kids and I'm nervous how he's going to do with another one in the mix. I'm also starting to dread the whole returning to work and pumping game... It's the thing I hate most about the first year after my kids are born.
DS: EDD, December 19th, 2014. Born, December 19th, 2014!
DD: EDD, July 18th, 2016. Born, July 19th, 2016!
Baby #3: EDD, April 16th, 2016
https://www.today.com/parents/exhausted-new-moms-hilarious-take-expert-sleep-advice-goes-viral-6C9559908
"You shouldn’t sleep train at all, before a year, before 6 months, or before 4 months, but if you wait too late, your baby will never be able to sleep without you. College-aged children never need to be nursed, rocked, helped to sleep, so don’t worry about any bad habits. Nursing, rocking, singing, swaddling, etc to sleep are all bad habits and should be stopped immediately.
Naps should only be taken in the bed, never in a swing, car seat, stroller, or when worn. Letting them sleep in the car seat or swing will damage their skulls. If your baby has trouble falling asleep in the bed, put them in a swing, car seat, stroller, or wear them. Use the crib only for sleep and keep it free of distractions. If the baby is having trouble adjusting to the crib, have them play in it first. If the baby wakes up at night and wants to play, put fun toys in the crib to distract them.
Put the baby in a nursery, bed in your room, in your bed. Co-sleeping is the best way to get sleep, except that it can kill your baby, so never, ever do it. If your baby doesn't die, you will need to bed-share until college.
Keep the room warm, but not too warm. Swaddle the baby tightly, but not too tightly. Put them on their backs to sleep, but don't let them be on their backs too long or they will be developmentally delayed. Give them a pacifier to reduce SIDS. Be careful about pacifiers because they can cause nursing problems and stop your baby from sleeping soundly. If your baby sleeps too soundly, they’ll die of SIDS.
Don’t let your baby sleep too long, except when they’ve been napping too much, then you should wake them. Never wake a sleeping baby. Any baby problem can be solved by putting them to bed earlier, even if they are waking up too early. If your baby wakes up too early, put them to bed later or cut out a nap. Don’t let them nap after 5 p.m. Sleep begets sleep, so try to get your child to sleep as much as possible. Put the baby to bed awake but drowsy. Don't wake the baby if it fell asleep while nursing.
You should start a routine and keep track of everything. Don’t watch the clock. Put them on a schedule. Scheduling will make your life impossible because they will constantly be thrown off of it and you will become a prisoner in your home.
Using the "Cry It Out" method (CIO) will make them think they’ve been abandoned and will be eaten by a lion shortly. It also causes brain damage. Not getting enough sleep will cause behavior and mental problems, so be sure to put them to sleep by any means necessary, especially CIO, which is the most effective form. CIO is cruel beyond belief and the only thing that truly works because parents are a distraction.
Formula and solid foods will help the baby sleep longer. Solid foods shouldn’t be given at night because they might wake the baby. Don't stop the baby from nursing when asleep. Be wary of night feeds. If you respond too quickly with food or comfort, your baby is manipulating you. Babies can’t manipulate. Babies older than six months can manipulate.
Sleep when the baby sleeps. Clean when the baby cleans. Don’t worry. Stress causes your baby stress and a stressed baby won't sleep."
DS: EDD, December 19th, 2014. Born, December 19th, 2014!
DD: EDD, July 18th, 2016. Born, July 19th, 2016!
Baby #3: EDD, April 16th, 2016
I really wasn't overthinking it all until I read something that came across my facebook feed. From the consensus, it sounds like every baby is different and I'll just have to figure mine out as time goes. I appreciate everyone's feedback.
@ladythrice I'm such a borderline hypochondriac and creepily fascinated with medical stuff that I read so far into it. Terrifies me , but I'm pretty sure I could deliver my own baby at this point (totally, absolutely kidding, I've just scoured the internet heaps).