@terezakatarina Your two points are probably the two that are the most different for me this time, as well.
I'm concerned about not being able to workout as much this time. I work from home most of the time so I think I can still keep it up more than if I were in an office, but less than before DD. When I was on maternity leave, workout videos were my go-to during naptime. We also have a jogging stroller. This time around will be harder with the weather but we're in sunny California so it'll just be slightly lower temps than my August baby.
As far as caffeine, I had one cup a day last pregnancy but DD developed a Premature Atrial Contraction (PAC) which is a heart arrhythmia around 24 weeks. The A/S had been fine at 20 weeks, the fetal echo right after the PAC was found was all clear, and it resolved by my next appointment at 28 weeks, but I couldn't have any caffeine (including ANY chocolate for the rest of my pregnancy). I'm still BFing DD who is now 12 1/2 months and had just reintroduced non-caffeinated coffee a few times before getting pregnant so I think I will be having LESS caffeine this time around given the PAC DD had freaking me out. It's super rare and resolves itself before birth or very soon after birth in 99%+ of cases. It showed up a little bit during delivery but she has been great since birth.
While life with a toddler is always hectic, I'm excited to be a bit more laid back about this pregnancy. I'm a research fiend but I feel like I've been-there-done-that so I think I'll be less obsessed with learning every little thing about baby this time around.
@terezakatarina - I am convinced that those caffeine requirements are for people with small children. It is now a struggle with DH as we wants to keep me away from the coffee to save me from myself!
How far along are you? How big is baby? Based on LMP, 4w4d, poppyseed.
How many kids do you already have? Ages? 1 DS, who will be 15 months next week.
How are your other kids doing this week? DS slept like crap last night. I'm pretty sure he's trying to punish us for getting knocked up. So tired and nauseous today!
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? Symptoms are so different this time around. I have no boob soreness, which was on full force by this time last time. I only weaned DS a little over a month ago, not sure if that has anything to do with it? It makes me paranoid for sure that this pregnancy isn't going to stick. That coupled with very mild cramping in my lower abdomen (although could be gas too) doesn't get me to worry any less.
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? I've gone through a few tragic events in my past, and I've had a number of close friends and family, including my Step-Mom tell me i'm an inspiration on how I've handled things. Also I love when my husband tells me how much I turn him on.
@terezakatarina survive? Ha. I guess I survived the last two pregnancies as well, but I feel like this one will be even more like I'm barely holding on. It's kind of too bad because this is our last baby and I would love to savour it as much as I can... but I work full time and our evenings disappear so fast in activities and family time and dinner, that I hardly have time to think about the fact that I'm pregnant. I've always been really lax about all the food "rules" so I don't change how I eat.
There's nothing wrong with drinking coffee during pregnancy. Current recommendations say approximately 200mg of caffeine is completely safe which is approximately 2 cups of coffee a day. So, go ahead and drink your coffee without worry!
DD1: June 2014 - VBM4lyfe DD2: October 2016 DC3: coming May 2019
@zuuls_mom that’s so cute that he’s excited! My 2 year old DS has consistently said no when we’ve asked him if he wants a baby. Haha Fingers crossed he warms up to the idea! @poshspice when did she start liking movies? I desperately wish my DS would even sit through a 30 minute show. I feel like movies days won’t come til he’s 5 at this rate! @mrsdee15 my DS started walking when he was 13m. He started taking steps with his push walker at 9m and loved it! I didn’t think he was ever going to walk without it! @expandcontract I was also early with my BFP this time around. I believe I was 3w4d when I tested with a Walmart cheapie. It was a faint line, but it wasn’t a squinter by no means. With my DS, on the day of my missed period, the line was still somewhat faint. I guess maybe I ovulated earlier than usual? @bluesky24 the best trick I had for when I was pregnant with my son was filling up a beer with water. Worked great, and no one caught on!
How far along are you? How big is baby? 4 weeks. Poppy seed.
How many kids do you already have? Ages? I have a son who just turned 2 a couple of weeks ago!
How are your other kids doing this week? He’s good. Full speed all of the time. He’s sweet, and then he’s throwing a tantrum over needing to eat dinner or not being able to eat more than one vitamin, but at least this week was better than the last! I saw other moms mentioning potty training. They’re “working with him” at daycare, but I don’t think he’s actually done anything yet. He has zero interest at home. I would pay someone to potty train him because I don’t have a clue!
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? Nothing really. Just excited and super nervous about this all working out. I never felt much different in the very beginning with my son, and I’ve already been feeling hormonal and having a sweet tooth this time around, so I’m hoping it’s a good sign. Also, potty training tips/tricks for 2 year old boys?
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? Is it bad that not much comes to mind since it was asked? Haha my father telling me he was proud of me when I graduated college has always been a huge compliment to me. Also being told I’m a good mama is always something I remember when I have hard days with my tiny tornado of a 2 year old.
How many kids do you already have? Ages? 1 DD, 3 yo
How are your other kids doing this week? We were all home for the first part of the week celebrating a Jewish holiday (@bluesky24Shana tova!). Now, DD is back in daycare. She just moved up the preschool class (!) and has been loving the new activities!
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? My mom is coming to town to help with DD and household stuff for a week. This past week, it's felt like an accomplishment to just get off the couch when I'm at home, so I'm very grateful for the help.
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? I love this GTKY. Props to @kvh22 for thinking of it! It was so nice to read through everyone's response. For me, I think the best compliment I received is that I'm brave
@secicc12@kvh22 good idea on the mocktail order. I work remotely with a team/department who is all based in New York. So I see them once every few months and same - there's always some kind of drinking involved. I just saw them last month and we drank at a baseball game, so maybe that'll be enough. Of course, everyone is all up in everyone else's business but my thought is that if someone is suspicious, who cares.
@msb615 Great idea about water in the beer bottle. I wonder if I can do that at a bar...hmm...
@terezakatarina I'd like to be less anxious this time around. Last time, I spent a lot of time panic-Googling all the things that can go wrong. I have more peace of mind and perspective this time and hope to just take it easy. I also know how grueling the "fourth trimester" is now so I'm going to double down on naps and trying to relax before baby comes. I want to be more intentional about working out this time and yeah I'm not giving up coffee
@bluesky24 the beer with water trick was much easier going to a friend’s house. In a bar, I guess you could order one, and take it to the bathroom to pour it out and replace with bottled water. Mocktails would probably be easier! My son’s bday was August 29th. I was hoping he went through his terrible twos early, because it lasted what seemed like forever, and then has been better the past month or more, but it’s back with a vengeance. I swear it’s like pulling teeth trying to get him to eat any meal of the day! All he wants to do is play. Lord help. Haha
@merrylea I also have NO boob soreness this time around, whereas last pregnancy I could barely put my bra on without them hurting. I also recently weaned at the 13.5 month mark, so I do wonder if that has something to do with it. These poor puppies deserve a break before they're on duty in 9 months!
How far along are you? How big is baby? 5W3D, chocolate chip according to my app
How many kids do you already have? Ages? 1 DD- She is 3 1/2
How are your other kids doing this week? This has been a challenging week. We have also been off work/preschool for Rosh Hashanah. I was very happy to send her back today!
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? Nothing specifically yet. I don't feel wonderful but it hasn't been too bad so far. I suspect the worst has yet to come.
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? Nothing really comes to mind.
@terezakatarina I'm not going to make myself insane trying to pump around the clock, take a million supplements, etc to try to force my supply to stay up after I go back to work. Last time around, I had an office where I could pump at my desk, and I spent hours miserable hooked up to that thing. Not worth the effort. This time around, I'm in a very new job and my office has no door and is 90% glass windows and doors, so I won't have that convenience. I'll happily supplement with formula as soon as my supply drops and not look back and not beat myself up, either.
@msb615 tell me about it...I call my 2 y/o the sour patch kid. First she's sour, then she's sweet. When they are fun, they're SO fun and when they aren't....
@sleepy33 yesss! I’m so glad someone said this! DS was in nicu for 5 days, and he never would latch, and my supply sucked. I stressed out so much with trying to pump every 2 hours, trying every vitamin under the sun for milk increase and even had my OB call me in a prescription, and still had to supplement formula once he started eating more. I worried and felt guilty, like my body had let me down, and it put such a damper on my maternity leave. He’s a healthy and happy thriving 2 year old. I won’t stress a single bit this time around about it. If it works, it works, and if not, that’s ok too!
How far along are you? How big is baby? 5W2D, appleseed
How many kids do you already have? Ages? 1 boy, turns two next month
How are your other kids doing this week? Very stubborn. Always wants to get his way! Learning new words every day.
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? I am feeling like my symptoms are very different this time around, and I'm super paranoid about all the risks of being pregnant over 40. My first appointment feels ages away!
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? That I'm funny/witty.
@sleepy33 yesss! I’m so glad someone said this! DS was in nicu for 5 days, and he never would latch, and my supply sucked. I stressed out so much with trying to pump every 2 hours, trying every vitamin under the sun for milk increase and even had my OB call me in a prescription, and still had to supplement formula once he started eating more. I worried and felt guilty, like my body had let me down, and it put such a damper on my maternity leave. He’s a healthy and happy thriving 2 year old. I won’t stress a single bit this time around about it. If it works, it works, and if not, that’s ok too!
I had a lot of guilt over it the first time around, especially bc the hardcore lactivists were like, oh just take fenugreek! Just do more skin to skin! Do a nursing vacation and stay in bed all weekend! ::eyeroll:: I had a great supply when I was on maternity leave, but it went downhill rapidly when I went back to work and DS started STTN. In the grand scheme of things, my time and sanity are worth so much more than being exclusively breastfed at 6+ months or whatever, and I won't let anyone make me feel less than or like I just didn't try hard enough.
@sleepy33 yesss! I’m so glad someone said this! DS was in nicu for 5 days, and he never would latch, and my supply sucked. I stressed out so much with trying to pump every 2 hours, trying every vitamin under the sun for milk increase and even had my OB call me in a prescription, and still had to supplement formula once he started eating more. I worried and felt guilty, like my body had let me down, and it put such a damper on my maternity leave. He’s a healthy and happy thriving 2 year old. I won’t stress a single bit this time around about it. If it works, it works, and if not, that’s ok too!
I had a lot of guilt over it the first time around, especially bc the hardcore lactivists were like, oh just take fenugreek! Just do more skin to skin! Do a nursing vacation and stay in bed all weekend! ::eyeroll:: I had a great supply when I was on maternity leave, but it went downhill rapidly when I went back to work and DS started STTN. In the grand scheme of things, my time and sanity are worth so much more than being exclusively breastfed at 6+ months or whatever, and I won't let anyone make me feel less than or like I just didn't try hard enough.
SOOOO happy to see this!! I had the hardest time bf'ing (tried for 4 weeks) and could barely get 1/4 oz during a pump session and 1/2 oz during a weighted feed at the LC's office. I tried everything I could think of to increase my supply and nothing worked. I definitely think it is why my PPD got so bad, so this time around I am going to be so much more relaxed about it. I'm still going to try, but if it doesn't happen then it doesn't happen. I can't put myself through that again.
*TW*
Me: 32 │ DH: 35 Married 8/16/13 BFP#1 DS 11/13/16 BFP# 2 MMC dx @ 13w 10/30/18 BFP# 3 Preemie DD born at 38w (IUGR) on 8/28/19 weighing 5.5lbs. Our little miracle
@sleepy33 I heard all of the same things too. And in the grand scheme of things, I regret worrying as much as I did over it. And like you said for sanity’s sake, I won’t worry or feel bad this time around if it doesn’t work out. @zuuls_mom that’s the attitude I’m having this time around. I would maybe get 1oz total, and he ate too much for me to keep up with, and I had to supplement more and more. It just didn’t work out for us. I wish I would’ve just been ok with that and enjoyed his newborn stage more. Lesson learned. Also glad to know others have experienced the same!
How far along are you? How big is baby? 6w+1. Baby is as big as a sweet pea!
How many kids do you already have? Ages? We have one, DS, who is 21 months.
How are your other kids doing this week? He is the happiest kid on the planet right now even though he is fully cutting his eye teeth (but has been for 4 MONTHS?!?! How long will this last?!). DH has been gone for the last week and will only be home for a day before he's gone for another week. DS and I have really been missing him, but I'm impressed that DS hasn't been acting out because of it thus far.
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? I'm so tired of being a single parent right now. I miss my husband. I do not know how single-parent households do this day-in and day-out. They are absolute heroes and I applaud them.
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? I love the little notes I receive from students, but the best compliment comes from former students, years after they have left the 8th grade when they say I changed their life - changed the course of their future. I cannot properly express how amazing that makes me feel.
How far along are you? How big is baby? 6 weeks today, a sweet pea.
How many kids do you already have? Ages? We have one, DD is 5.
How are your other kids doing this week? She's having a difficult week actually. She's been a little discouraged with Kindergarten so far. She opened up to me last night that some boys have hit her and she doesn't feel like many kids like her. She does have several friends though from last year that she gets to have recess with, so I'm not quite sure if it's all true, or if she's needing something more from me when we are home. She's a pretty happy go lucky kid with a fun spirit, so seeing her get that emotional was hard on me. I've informed her teachers and they are watching more intently, but they have not seen anything happen like this. She's at a private school with small class size, and very nurturing atmosphere, so I feel like they couldn't have missed it.
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? I'm going to rant about a bracelet I bought bc it's currently driving me crazy as I type LOL. It's a rope style bangle with my monogram, I purchased it in gold, and it is WAY more silver than gold. Their response was that their gold is very "light in color" and they believe I received the right product, but it does not look like the picture. Then, one of the sides has come loose and now clinks constantly. It's the first day I've actually worn it. First world problems, but a rant nontheless.
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? That I have a warm spirit. I hope that I can always make that true. (even when I'm ranting about bracelets lol).
@poshspice I can't get a handle on what's different this time around lol. I do remember not "feeling pregnant" for a while with DD. This time, my boobs are so sore, but I'm also on progesterone, so that could be why they are moreso this time. Nausea hasn't really hit yet. I'm thinking it was around this time with her, so maybe it's right around the corner? All I do is worry.
@k2k2tog I quickly relalized I am not SAHM material either. I did spend the first year with DD, and I could not do it again. I'm nervous that she will be on summer vacation for a large chunk of my maternity leave and I will have to handle two children all day lol. I will be begging to come back to work!
@sleepy33 It's so great to not feel alone in that thinking. I will absolutely not do what I did to myself with DD. Definitely a reason for my PPD. I put way to much pressure on myself, and there was just nothing more I could do.
How far along are you? Okay let’s see...7 weeks today
How big is baby? Coffee bean
How many kids do you already have? I have 2 kids ages 8 and 5
How are your other kids doing this week? Kiddos are doing well, my 5 year old is having some trouble adjusting to kindergarten but I’m hoping that only lasts a short time!
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? Not at the moment
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? That I have a beautiful smile
@GeorgiaGirl1230 the trick I've found works with 2 kids at home is establishing as much of a routine as possible, and keeping busy busy busy. We went out every single morning over the summer to library programs, play groups, or even just the park. My plan for next year is to get DD1 in 3 or 4 week long day camps and keep sending DD2 to daycare once or twice a week. I'm not sure I can handle it with 3 at home.
DD1: June 2014 - VBM4lyfe DD2: October 2016 DC3: coming May 2019
@expandcontract hide the dining table chairs. If you cabt hide them stack them on top the table in a way your kid can't get them down.
How far along are you? How big is baby? 5 weeks 4 days, appleseed
How many kids do you already have? Ages? 2 others. Girl is 11 years boy is 3.5 years.
How are your other kids doing this week? DD has her first middle school dance coming up that I need to buy a dress for. I have also had to pick her up everyday from clubs and after school tutorials. She joined 4 freaking clubs so far! DS had speech therapy today. After everyone was home we went to the library.
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? I'm freaking exhausted. Only other symptom is my boobs started to hurt yesterday.
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? When i was working and made custodian of the year my principal and ap told my husband how hard of a worker i was and how they all just loved me.
Pregnancy #1 DD 08.30.2007 Pregnancy #2 Natural Miscarriage at 6 weeks 03/2014 Due date 11/9/2014 Pregnancy #3 DS 02.23.2015 Pregnancy #4 Missed Miscarriage at 11 weeks 11/2018 Due date 5/22/2019 Pregnancy #5 Positive test 12/11/2019 Due Date 8/17/2020
@psychobutthead Thank you so much for that tip! I actually did tell myself while at work today that maybe we should put the drinking chairs in one of the rooms and keep the door closed. That's the only way to keep her off the table. Thanks for confirming my thoughts!
@psychobutthead Thank you so much for that tip! I actually did tell myself while at work today that maybe we should put the drinking chairs in one of the rooms and keep the door closed. That's the only way to keep her off the table. Thanks for confirming my thoughts!
Yeah we had to keep ours in the garage for awhile. Now my son just climbs the kitchen counter. He uses the drawers as a freaking ladder to boost himself up.
Pregnancy #1 DD 08.30.2007 Pregnancy #2 Natural Miscarriage at 6 weeks 03/2014 Due date 11/9/2014 Pregnancy #3 DS 02.23.2015 Pregnancy #4 Missed Miscarriage at 11 weeks 11/2018 Due date 5/22/2019 Pregnancy #5 Positive test 12/11/2019 Due Date 8/17/2020
@expandcontract yeah first kid was easier then my 2nd. He keeps me on my toes.
Pregnancy #1 DD 08.30.2007 Pregnancy #2 Natural Miscarriage at 6 weeks 03/2014 Due date 11/9/2014 Pregnancy #3 DS 02.23.2015 Pregnancy #4 Missed Miscarriage at 11 weeks 11/2018 Due date 5/22/2019 Pregnancy #5 Positive test 12/11/2019 Due Date 8/17/2020
@zuuls_mom that's a great compliment, I've had one really awesome manager and several terrible ones @kvh22 I'm in no hurry for my baby to grow up but I have to admit, I'm really excited for the drunk toddler walk @ElleJDubs congrats on the photo contest! @bluesky24 I'd say you're on an antibiotic and can't drink @peachy13 you must have been in the BMB after me! What are you giving her for finger foods?
How far along are you? How big is baby? 3 weeks 2 days, chia seed
How many kids do you already have? Ages? One DS, 10 months
How are your other kids doing this week? He's doing great! Crawling everywhere so fast, getting into all the things. It's pretty cute to watch his little hands grab books off our shelves. We should baby proof better
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? Right now, I'm just happy to be here. First tri does make me anxious but now that this is my second time around, I'm trying to enjoy not yet having a bump in my way, no heartburn, and no back pain. My first birth experience was not the best so I've got lots of feelings surrounding that but taking it one day at a time. My OB is taking me very seriously so we'll come up with a plan of action together and hopefully having plans and backup plans will relieve some of that anxiety.
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? I was once told I looked like Kate Middleton (I was all dressed up that day). This is not true at all, I look 0% like her but I love her so it was a great compliment
How far along are you? How big is baby? 5w3d, appleseed
How many kids do you already have? Ages? My two sons are about 4.5 and 2.5
How are your other kids doing this week? My oldest is back in preschool and dealing with a little heartbreak because his best friend from last year (little girl who was always dressed up like a fairy) is still in the Tues Thurs class and he does Mon Wed Fri now. He won't stop talking about her beautiful curls and how much he misses pretending to make snowmen in the gym with her, and he even drew her a picture of them playing with "Love (Her Name)" written on it. Poor little guy! My younger son is just changing so much now that he can verbally express most of what he's feeling. He says things like, "Love you, Mommy" and "Mommy, snuggle you" and it just kills me. I'm not ready for him to stop being my baby!
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? Oh, not really.
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? My husband is French and sometimes I try to go out of my way a little to make him feel at home (we live in the US). A few years ago, I made a Buche de Noel for Christmas and he said it was the best he'd ever had. Now I make it every year.
@misskimsue My husband is French too! We live in the US but I lived in France for 2 years. Small world. Do you guys speak french at home?
Ps that was so sweet of you to make the buche de noel! I’m always bugging his mom for recipes he likes but they never seem to turn out the same. Must be that french butter
@secicc12 Awesome! Yes, we try to have a bilingual home. My husband speaks almost exclusively French to the kids; I speak mostly English, but French sometimes, too. You're right that there are some things that will never be as good away from France- butter and bread, for sure.
How far along are you? How big is baby? 4w4d, Poppyseed
How many kids do you already have? Ages? 1 daughter - 4 years old
How are your other kids doing this week? Hilarious and yet driving me crazy. This week was my birthday and DD was obsessed with celebrating it. She got upset when I told her that her school wasn't going to throw me a party for my birthday. She thought getting me one birthday card wasn't enough so she made a new one herself... which she decorated with about $20 worth of USPS stamps. All I wanted was a dinner out with DH and DD to celebrate... DD was super upset that no one else showed up despite me explaining that no one else was invited. Yesterday she gave me a present of "what I want most in the world" according to her. She told me it was a book of rules and gave examples of what the scribbles in the book meant.. "this one is that we have to go to sleep... this one is we can't leave the table until we are done eating..."
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? DD has wanted a sibling (specifically a sister) for so long. She wanted it even before DH and I were ready to start trying for a second one. Since trying for a second ever since December it has broken my heart every time she comes begging for a sibling so I cannot wait until I can tell her (although since I'm nervous about it working out - I will probably hold out until the 12 week mark or something like that).
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? Not really a specific compliment, but my company has a program where they select people that they foresee in leadership positions someday (possibly WAY in the future) and they enroll you in a year long program to train you / mentor you. I got selected a month ago to be a part of the program for this "school year" so I took that as the company really liking me.... although not sure how thrilled they will be that I'll be on maternity leave right before it ends - whoops!
@bluesky24 My go to drink is bacardi and diet coke (yes, I haven't matured from college years). So tonight I was planning on getting a diet coke and hope everyone would assume there was rum in it.
Hi! A little late to the check in but I couldn't get posting to work for me for a while
How far along are you? How big is baby? I'm 6w5d, the bump says baby is the size of an earing stud...
How many kids do you already have? Ages? I have a 2 year old son
How are your other kids doing this week? He's doing great. Super active and constantly surprising me. He had his very first throw himself on the ground tantrum this week though 🙈 I'm so not ready for that nonsense, lol.
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? No real rants or rants currently
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? My son's paternal grandmother (his father and I split at 8 weeks pregnant when he decided he didn't want a kid anymore) visited my son and when she was leaving sad you're doing such an amazing job. You're a great mom. It's nice to feel validated in my parenting.
How far along are you? How big is baby? 4 weeks, a poppyseed
How many kids do you already have? Ages? A son who is almost 10 months
How are your other kids doing this week? Good! Hes learning so much right now. I just love watching his crawl around and play all day
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? None right now
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? When DS was 4 months old someone told me "he looks so healthy!" Which I know wasn't a compliment directly to me but I took it that way in the sense that I was doing a good job taking care of him. I loved hearing those words.
Re: STM+ Check in Week of 9/11
I'm concerned about not being able to workout as much this time. I work from home most of the time so I think I can still keep it up more than if I were in an office, but less than before DD. When I was on maternity leave, workout videos were my go-to during naptime. We also have a jogging stroller. This time around will be harder with the weather but we're in sunny California so it'll just be slightly lower temps than my August baby.
As far as caffeine, I had one cup a day last pregnancy but DD developed a Premature Atrial Contraction (PAC) which is a heart arrhythmia around 24 weeks. The A/S had been fine at 20 weeks, the fetal echo right after the PAC was found was all clear, and it resolved by my next appointment at 28 weeks, but I couldn't have any caffeine (including ANY chocolate for the rest of my pregnancy). I'm still BFing DD who is now 12 1/2 months and had just reintroduced non-caffeinated coffee a few times before getting pregnant so I think I will be having LESS caffeine this time around given the PAC DD had freaking me out. It's super rare and resolves itself before birth or very soon after birth in 99%+ of cases. It showed up a little bit during delivery but she has been great since birth.
While life with a toddler is always hectic, I'm excited to be a bit more laid back about this pregnancy. I'm a research fiend but I feel like I've been-there-done-that so I think I'll be less obsessed with learning every little thing about baby this time around.
How far along are you? How big is baby? Based on LMP, 4w4d, poppyseed.
How many kids do you already have? Ages? 1 DS, who will be 15 months next week.
How are your other kids doing this week? DS slept like crap last night. I'm pretty sure he's trying to punish us for getting knocked up. So tired and nauseous today!
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? Symptoms are so different this time around. I have no boob soreness, which was on full force by this time last time. I only weaned DS a little over a month ago, not sure if that has anything to do with it? It makes me paranoid for sure that this pregnancy isn't going to stick. That coupled with very mild cramping in my lower abdomen (although could be gas too) doesn't get me to worry any less.
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? I've gone through a few tragic events in my past, and I've had a number of close friends and family, including my Step-Mom tell me i'm an inspiration on how I've handled things. Also I love when my husband tells me how much I turn him on.
@terezakatarina survive? Ha. I guess I survived the last two pregnancies as well, but I feel like this one will be even more like I'm barely holding on. It's kind of too bad because this is our last baby and I would love to savour it as much as I can... but I work full time and our evenings disappear so fast in activities and family time and dinner, that I hardly have time to think about the fact that I'm pregnant. I've always been really lax about all the food "rules" so I don't change how I eat.
There's nothing wrong with drinking coffee during pregnancy. Current recommendations say approximately 200mg of caffeine is completely safe which is approximately 2 cups of coffee a day. So, go ahead and drink your coffee without worry!
DD1: June 2014 - VBM4lyfe
DD2: October 2016
DC3: coming May 2019
@poshspice when did she start liking movies? I desperately wish my DS would even sit through a 30 minute show. I feel like movies days won’t come til he’s 5 at this rate!
@mrsdee15 my DS started walking when he was 13m. He started taking steps with his push walker at 9m and loved it! I didn’t think he was ever going to walk without it!
@expandcontract I was also early with my BFP this time around. I believe I was 3w4d when I tested with a Walmart cheapie. It was a faint line, but it wasn’t a squinter by no means. With my DS, on the day of my missed period, the line was still somewhat faint. I guess maybe I ovulated earlier than usual?
@bluesky24 the best trick I had for when I was pregnant with my son was filling up a beer with water. Worked great, and no one caught on!
How far along are you? How big is baby? 4 weeks. Poppy seed.
How many kids do you already have? Ages? I have a son who just turned 2 a couple of weeks ago!
How are your other kids doing this week? He’s good. Full speed all of the time. He’s sweet, and then he’s throwing a tantrum over needing to eat dinner or not being able to eat more than one vitamin, but at least this week was better than the last! I saw other moms mentioning potty training. They’re “working with him” at daycare, but I don’t think he’s actually done anything yet. He has zero interest at home. I would pay someone to potty train him because I don’t have a clue!
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? Nothing really. Just excited and super nervous about this all working out. I never felt much different in the very beginning with my son, and I’ve already been feeling hormonal and having a sweet tooth this time around, so I’m hoping it’s a good sign. Also, potty training tips/tricks for 2 year old boys?
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? Is it bad that not much comes to mind since it was asked? Haha my father telling me he was proud of me when I graduated college has always been a huge compliment to me. Also being told I’m a good mama is always something I remember when I have hard days with my tiny tornado of a 2 year old.
How many kids do you already have? Ages? 1 DD, 3 yo
How are your other kids doing this week? We were all home for the first part of the week celebrating a Jewish holiday (@bluesky24Shana tova!). Now, DD is back in daycare. She just moved up the preschool class (!) and has been loving the new activities!
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? My mom is coming to town to help with DD and household stuff for a week. This past week, it's felt like an accomplishment to just get off the couch when I'm at home, so I'm very grateful for the help.
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? I love this GTKY. Props to @kvh22 for thinking of it! It was so nice to read through everyone's response. For me, I think the best compliment I received is that I'm brave
@msb615 Great idea about water in the beer bottle. I wonder if I can do that at a bar...hmm...
@terezakatarina I'd like to be less anxious this time around. Last time, I spent a lot of time panic-Googling all the things that can go wrong. I have more peace of mind and perspective this time and hope to just take it easy. I also know how grueling the "fourth trimester" is now so I'm going to double down on naps and trying to relax before baby comes. I want to be more intentional about working out this time and yeah I'm not giving up coffee
ETA @thismustbethemom Shana tova to you too!! Hope you had a sweet new year!
How many kids do you already have? Ages? 1 DD- She is 3 1/2
How are your other kids doing this week? This has been a challenging week. We have also been off work/preschool for Rosh Hashanah. I was very happy to send her back today!
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? Nothing specifically yet. I don't feel wonderful but it hasn't been too bad so far. I suspect the worst has yet to come.
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? Nothing really comes to mind.
DD2- EDD 5/12/2019
I'm not going to make myself insane trying to pump around the clock, take a million supplements, etc to try to force my supply to stay up after I go back to work. Last time around, I had an office where I could pump at my desk, and I spent hours miserable hooked up to that thing. Not worth the effort. This time around, I'm in a very new job and my office has no door and is 90% glass windows and doors, so I won't have that convenience. I'll happily supplement with formula as soon as my supply drops and not look back and not beat myself up, either.
How many kids do you already have? Ages? 1 boy, turns two next month
How are your other kids doing this week? Very stubborn. Always wants to get his way! Learning new words every day.
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? I am feeling like my symptoms are very different this time around, and I'm super paranoid about all the risks of being pregnant over 40. My first appointment feels ages away!
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? That I'm funny/witty.
I had a great supply when I was on maternity leave, but it went downhill rapidly when I went back to work and DS started STTN. In the grand scheme of things, my time and sanity are worth so much more than being exclusively breastfed at 6+ months or whatever, and I won't let anyone make me feel less than or like I just didn't try hard enough.
Married 8/16/13
BFP#1 DS 11/13/16
BFP# 2 MMC dx @ 13w 10/30/18
BFP# 3 Preemie DD born at 38w (IUGR) on 8/28/19 weighing 5.5lbs. Our little miracle
@zuuls_mom that’s the attitude I’m having this time around. I would maybe get 1oz total, and he ate too much for me to keep up with, and I had to supplement more and more. It just didn’t work out for us. I wish I would’ve just been ok with that and enjoyed his newborn stage more. Lesson learned. Also glad to know others have experienced the same!
How many kids do you already have? Ages? We have one, DS, who is 21 months.
How are your other kids doing this week? He is the happiest kid on the planet right now even though he is fully cutting his eye teeth (but has been for 4 MONTHS?!?! How long will this last?!). DH has been gone for the last week and will only be home for a day before he's gone for another week. DS and I have really been missing him, but I'm impressed that DS hasn't been acting out because of it thus far.
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? I'm so tired of being a single parent right now. I miss my husband. I do not know how single-parent households do this day-in and day-out. They are absolute heroes and I applaud them.
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? I love the little notes I receive from students, but the best compliment comes from former students, years after they have left the 8th grade when they say I changed their life - changed the course of their future. I cannot properly express how amazing that makes me feel.
How many kids do you already have? Ages? We have one, DD is 5.
How are your other kids doing this week? She's having a difficult week actually. She's been a little discouraged with Kindergarten so far. She opened up to me last night that some boys have hit her and she doesn't feel like many kids like her. She does have several friends though from last year that she gets to have recess with, so I'm not quite sure if it's all true, or if she's needing something more from me when we are home. She's a pretty happy go lucky kid with a fun spirit, so seeing her get that emotional was hard on me. I've informed her teachers and they are watching more intently, but they have not seen anything happen like this. She's at a private school with small class size, and very nurturing atmosphere, so I feel like they couldn't have missed it.
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? I'm going to rant about a bracelet I bought bc it's currently driving me crazy as I type LOL. It's a rope style bangle with my monogram, I purchased it in gold, and it is WAY more silver than gold. Their response was that their gold is very "light in color" and they believe I received the right product, but it does not look like the picture. Then, one of the sides has come loose and now clinks constantly. It's the first day I've actually worn it. First world problems, but a rant nontheless.
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? That I have a warm spirit. I hope that I can always make that true. (even when I'm ranting about bracelets lol).
@poshspice I can't get a handle on what's different this time around lol. I do remember not "feeling pregnant" for a while with DD. This time, my boobs are so sore, but I'm also on progesterone, so that could be why they are moreso this time. Nausea hasn't really hit yet. I'm thinking it was around this time with her, so maybe it's right around the corner? All I do is worry.
@k2k2tog I quickly relalized I am not SAHM material either. I did spend the first year with DD, and I could not do it again. I'm nervous that she will be on summer vacation for a large chunk of my maternity leave and I will have to handle two children all day lol. I will be begging to come back to work!
@sleepy33 It's so great to not feel alone in that thinking. I will absolutely not do what I did to myself with DD. Definitely a reason for my PPD. I put way to much pressure on myself, and there was just nothing more I could do.
How big is baby? Coffee bean
How many kids do you already have? I have 2 kids ages 8 and 5
How are your other kids doing this week? Kiddos are doing well, my 5 year old is having some trouble adjusting to kindergarten but I’m hoping that only lasts a short time!
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? Not at the moment
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? That I have a beautiful smile
DD1: June 2014 - VBM4lyfe
DD2: October 2016
DC3: coming May 2019
How far along are you? How big is baby? 5 weeks 4 days, appleseed
How many kids do you already have? Ages? 2 others. Girl is 11 years boy is 3.5 years.
How are your other kids doing this week? DD has her first middle school dance coming up that I need to buy a dress for. I have also had to pick her up everyday from clubs and after school tutorials. She joined 4 freaking clubs so far!
DS had speech therapy today. After everyone was home we went to the library.
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions?
I'm freaking exhausted. Only other symptom is my boobs started to hurt yesterday.
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received?
When i was working and made custodian of the year my principal and ap told my husband how hard of a worker i was and how they all just loved me.
Pregnancy #2 Natural Miscarriage at 6 weeks 03/2014 Due date 11/9/2014
Pregnancy #3 DS 02.23.2015
Pregnancy #4 Missed Miscarriage at 11 weeks 11/2018 Due date 5/22/2019
Pregnancy #5 Positive test 12/11/2019 Due Date 8/17/2020
Pregnancy #2 Natural Miscarriage at 6 weeks 03/2014 Due date 11/9/2014
Pregnancy #3 DS 02.23.2015
Pregnancy #4 Missed Miscarriage at 11 weeks 11/2018 Due date 5/22/2019
Pregnancy #5 Positive test 12/11/2019 Due Date 8/17/2020
Pregnancy #2 Natural Miscarriage at 6 weeks 03/2014 Due date 11/9/2014
Pregnancy #3 DS 02.23.2015
Pregnancy #4 Missed Miscarriage at 11 weeks 11/2018 Due date 5/22/2019
Pregnancy #5 Positive test 12/11/2019 Due Date 8/17/2020
@kvh22 I'm in no hurry for my baby to grow up but I have to admit, I'm really excited for the drunk toddler walk
@ElleJDubs congrats on the photo contest!
@bluesky24 I'd say you're on an antibiotic and can't drink
@peachy13 you must have been in the BMB after me! What are you giving her for finger foods?
How far along are you? How big is baby? 3 weeks 2 days, chia seed
How many kids do you already have? Ages? One DS, 10 months
How are your other kids doing this week? He's doing great! Crawling everywhere so fast, getting into all the things. It's pretty cute to watch his little hands grab books off our shelves. We should baby proof better
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? Right now, I'm just happy to be here. First tri does make me anxious but now that this is my second time around, I'm trying to enjoy not yet having a bump in my way, no heartburn, and no back pain. My first birth experience was not the best so I've got lots of feelings surrounding that but taking it one day at a time. My OB is taking me very seriously so we'll come up with a plan of action together and hopefully having plans and backup plans will relieve some of that anxiety.
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? I was once told I looked like Kate Middleton (I was all dressed up that day). This is not true at all, I look 0% like her but I love her so it was a great compliment
How many kids do you already have? Ages? My two sons are about 4.5 and 2.5
How are your other kids doing this week? My oldest is back in preschool and dealing with a little heartbreak because his best friend from last year (little girl who was always dressed up like a fairy) is still in the Tues Thurs class and he does Mon Wed Fri now. He won't stop talking about her beautiful curls and how much he misses pretending to make snowmen in the gym with her, and he even drew her a picture of them playing with "Love (Her Name)" written on it. Poor little guy! My younger son is just changing so much now that he can verbally express most of what he's feeling. He says things like, "Love you, Mommy" and "Mommy, snuggle you" and it just kills me. I'm not ready for him to stop being my baby!
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? Oh, not really.
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? My husband is French and sometimes I try to go out of my way a little to make him feel at home (we live in the US). A few years ago, I made a Buche de Noel for Christmas and he said it was the best he'd ever had. Now I make it every year.
Ps that was so sweet of you to make the buche de noel! I’m always bugging his mom for recipes he likes but they never seem to turn out the same. Must be that french butter
How many kids do you already have? Ages? 1 daughter - 4 years old
How are your other kids doing this week? Hilarious and yet driving me crazy. This week was my birthday and DD was obsessed with celebrating it. She got upset when I told her that her school wasn't going to throw me a party for my birthday. She thought getting me one birthday card wasn't enough so she made a new one herself... which she decorated with about $20 worth of USPS stamps. All I wanted was a dinner out with DH and DD to celebrate... DD was super upset that no one else showed up despite me explaining that no one else was invited. Yesterday she gave me a present of "what I want most in the world" according to her. She told me it was a book of rules and gave examples of what the scribbles in the book meant.. "this one is that we have to go to sleep... this one is we can't leave the table until we are done eating..."
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? DD has wanted a sibling (specifically a sister) for so long. She wanted it even before DH and I were ready to start trying for a second one. Since trying for a second ever since December it has broken my heart every time she comes begging for a sibling so I cannot wait until I can tell her (although since I'm nervous about it working out - I will probably hold out until the 12 week mark or something like that).
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? Not really a specific compliment, but my company has a program where they select people that they foresee in leadership positions someday (possibly WAY in the future) and they enroll you in a year long program to train you / mentor you. I got selected a month ago to be a part of the program for this "school year" so I took that as the company really liking me.... although not sure how thrilled they will be that I'll be on maternity leave right before it ends - whoops!
How far along are you? How big is baby? I'm 6w5d, the bump says baby is the size of an earing stud...
How many kids do you already have? Ages? I have a 2 year old son
How are your other kids doing this week? He's doing great. Super active and constantly surprising me. He had his very first throw himself on the ground tantrum this week though 🙈 I'm so not ready for that nonsense, lol.
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? No real rants or rants currently
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? My son's paternal grandmother (his father and I split at 8 weeks pregnant when he decided he didn't want a kid anymore) visited my son and when she was leaving sad you're doing such an amazing job. You're a great mom. It's nice to feel validated in my parenting.
How many kids do you already have? Ages? A son who is almost 10 months
How are your other kids doing this week? Good! Hes learning so much right now. I just love watching his crawl around and play all day
Rants/Raves? Concerns/Questions? None right now
GTKY: What was the best compliment you’ve received? When DS was 4 months old someone told me "he looks so healthy!" Which I know wasn't a compliment directly to me but I took it that way in the sense that I was doing a good job taking care of him. I loved hearing those words.