*~*~* The Decemberists! *~*~*

[gaiagirl]

Hi Ladies! Nice, easy, lazy weekend over here...really starting to appreciate the things we CAN do now, like laying on the couch reading all afternoon!

Smawfl - yay for half way! I'll be there in 6 weeks and I am very excited for that milestone. Are you feeling baby often?

Pusscat - Sorry your DH couldn't bring you along! I've always wanted to visit Australia. I am thinking of doing a year long teaching exchange sometime down the road...

AFM - doing well, feeling SO much less nauseous although still pretty tired/lazy. I've also been having nasty headaches on and off. I woke up with one today which is no fun. Glad it's the weekend!

Oh also, I got a new book called Panic Free Pregnancy and I love it! Written by an OB and it gives a realistic idea of which pregnancy 'no-nos' are real and which are really over inflated. Most of the things he says are what I already figured out from researching things (runny yolk, medium rare steak) but he talks about sushi and it made me SO HAPPY to hear the raw fish thing is as silly as I thought! I mean, obviously avoid it from iffy sources as you always would but at the places I've always eaten it and are reputable - yay! It feels good not to be paranoid, you ladies should check the book out! Not that any of you ARE paranoid, but still! It's great

 

[minimoocow]

Afternoon ladies

How's the bank hol weekend treating everyone?

I've been having a crap week - got a UTI which was really horrible. Think I am about recovered just in time for OV so fingers crossed for a BFP this month. I also FINALLY got the pre-seed which we are both liking But did anyone else have an issue with recognising CM when using it - i.e. I can't tell if its CM or Pre-seed?

Also just wanted to say I've started a new thread in the TTC section. I fully intend to hang out here as well but as some of you are now half way though I though it would be good to also chat with some ladies still TTC . . . hope nobody is offended. x

 

[smawfl]

Hi All

I have to admit, I love LONG weekends!!!

Pussycat - sounds like a great opportunity for your DH, I'm sure the time will fly by and he'll be home before you know it. DH was watching the football yesterday too... zzzzzzzz! Sounds like you had a really nice day with your mum.

Gaiagirl - I know what you mean about appreciating the things you can do.. we may go to the cinema later, something I'm sure we'll struggle to do once Baby is here!
I can't say I'm feeling Baby a lot, it tends to vary like Wednesday evening I felt a lot of movement in my right side.. then nothing much until today really, I think it's because of the placenta, I'm feeling Baby very low down today. Can't wait for the big kicks!
The book sounds interesting.. might have a look!

Minimoocow - Sorry about your UTI but glad it's clearing up in time for OV Glad the preseed is going well! I can't help as we never used it but I always struggled to recognise CM after we'd BD
Of course we're not offended, sounds like a good idea but as long as you know you're always welcome here, you'll always be a Decemberist Sending lots of

AFM - we had a look at some more prams yesterday, nothing fits in my car iCandy Strawberry and Cherry both don't fit unless I remove a wheel which I don't really want to do. Next to view are Uppababy Cruz (which isn't out over here until July) and the Maxi Cosi Streety which apparently folds quite compact so we'll see.

I'm still team but I really want to be prepared and and have a pink or blue outfit ready in my hospital bag to bring Baby home in.. was out with my sister and was so drawn to the pink stuff! Would be funny if Baby was though!

Hope everyone else is good!

 

[seaweed eater]

Hi ladies :wave: long weekend in the UK, huh? Lucky you are you off work tomorrow then?

Smawfl, congrats on halfway! Exciting milestone! I'm sorry about the issues you're having with prams not fitting in your car we are deciding between two, I think, and I keep trying to notice what other people I see out in public are using...one of these days I'll have the nerve to start asking them whether they're satisfied with their travel systems!

Gaiagirl, I think it makes perfect sense to consider 13 weeks the beginning of 2nd tri! Once you get past the 12 week milestone and start feeling better and growing a bump (are you, yet??) you're really more in 2nd tri anyway. I'm really glad you're feeling better, and I bet the tiredness will go away soon too. I found that right at 14 weeks I was suddenly back to my normal energy level. It was amazing.

Pusscat, I'm sorry your husband has left...you're right that saying goodbyes is awful I am glad your mother is there though! Congrats on 22 weeks and I hope you keep feeling better physically

I envy those of you in the UK who can watch great football/soccer on TV all the time! I love watching it but we don't get much of it here, at least not on the channels we get. Only the World Cup. I have some friends who are fans of Chelsea so I'm happy about the results on their behalf, but I wish I could have watched it happen!

Mini, I'm sorry about the UTI, those can be horrible! I'm glad you are starting to feel better. Fingers crossed this is your month and of course I understand wanting to talk to other ladies who are TTC. I hope you don't need to stay there for very much longer, though!
About Pre-Seed...interesting question, but no, I don't remember having trouble telling that from CM. I definitely made an effort to push out any remaining fluids about an hour after sex, though (I remember reading that the last sperm that could possibly get you pregnant are already well on their way within 45 minutes), so I think that helped. Might be something to try if you're not doing it already.

Hope the rest of you are feeling well this weekend I've been having some annoying nasal congestion...I don't think it's a cold, since I feel ok otherwise! So it must be either allergies (which I've never had before, but I guess everything gets worse in pregnancy), or apparently a side effect of heartburn...I had no idea but (sorry this is disgusting) apparently the acid can get all the way up into your nose, especially if you are lying down, which then causes congestion. Anyway, it's not a huge problem, just annoying!

This morning we went to an information session for doula services...I'm still not 100% decided whether I want one or not, but I met a couple today that I liked, and they both mentioned that if I need to have a scheduled C-section they may be open to discussing adjusting their fees. My husband seems to like the idea too, so I think on the whole we're probably leaning toward hiring one. Anyone else here considering working with a doula?

 

[smawfl]

Yep tomorrow is a holiday here in the UK!

I've just managed to watch Desperate Housewives without falling asleep so I'm feeling pretty good!

Which prams are you deciding between, Seaweed?

I think one of my pregnancy apps mentioned congestion was a common pregnancy ailment... another one to add to the growing list!!

I've only really come across doulas from this site, I dont think they're used here in the UK - I wont be having one. Do they basically help out with the birth and give support?

 

[seaweed eater]

We're going to get a travel system with a carseat and stroller (don't know if the iCandy ones are the same way...they don't seem to be very common here) and we're deciding between one of the Graco systems (probably with the 35" seat) and the Britax one...I'm leaning toward Britax because the reviews are better, but I seem to see many more people using Graco.

I've had nasal congestion throughout pregnancy but it suddenly got worse yesterday, so I assumed it was something else. But maybe you're right! Pregnancy could also have caused it to suddenly get worse.

Doulas aren't very common here either...I don't remember how I first heard about them, to be honest. But, yes, they provide support during labor and birth, try to keep everyone calm, provide tools for physical comfort such as massage/aromatherapy/TENS, etc.

I guess it could make sense that they are used less in cultures with lower rates of C-sections and other interventions (which is basically everywhere compared to the US as I understand it ) because one of their big benefits is helping to prevent C-sections and other inductions by helping to make labors shorter and easier...I mean everyone wants shorter and easier labors, but there might be more at stake when medical people are likely to be more aggressive in dealing with "failure to progress" and situations like that.

Personally, that's my main reason for wanting to hire one -- I don't want a C section unless it's really necessary! I know it may be necessary due to my blood pressure issues, but if I do manage to go into labor (whether naturally or after induction) I want to avoid emergency surgery if I possibly can.

 

[gaiagirl]

Happy (?) Monday Ladies!

Mini - Sorry about the UTI, looks like it hasn't affected your temps though so that is good! GL over the next few days, and of course join whatever group you want! I am in a November birth group, a Canadian ladies group and this one!

Smawfl - I am really interested in the Uppababy Cruz too, so let me know what you think of it!
Also, I watch Desperate Housewives too...can't believe next week is the last one! I have been watching for so many years...

Seaweed - I actually JUST started really noticing a bump over the weekend, it still looks like I am just out of shape to everyone else but I know the difference! Very exciting! Pant selection is really starting to get tough, and I ordered a pair of mat jeans but had to get them hemmed. They are ready for pick up today! So excited to wear jeans again, LOL.

Hanyou - How did the move go?!??! Hope you are getting settled in and feeling better!

AFM - Definitely feeling better now although the gag reflex is still sensitive, but got quite a bit more exercise this weekend than I have had since Feb! Two hikes and I am doing prenatal yoga tonight.

Some new things have started...dizziness quite often when standing up, sore hips, and heartburn! ALL better than constant nausea though.

 

[Pusscat]

End of the bank holiday and I'm so glad I've got one weekend out of the way! Hope everyone has had a good day, bank holiday or not.

Gaia - I like you're new picture Hope the yoga goes well. Let us know what it's like. I feel I'm doing enough exercise at the moment but I had thought I'd like to do yoga. Maybe I'll pick it up later on in the pregnancy. I'd be interested to know if they do a lot of breathing to help with labour.

Seaweed - I saw a doula on One Born Every Minute but other than that I've not heard of anyone having one. I'm hoping my DH and midwife will provide all the support I need. The partner of the lady who had the doula on OBEM was hardly in the room and really didn't offer any support. So maybe that's why she had one! The doula was very good at keeping the lady calm and the midwives seemed to respect what she was saying. I did think that maybe it could make the midwives feel undervalued though, like you don't think they'll do a good enough job? I totally understand wanting to do everything possible for a natural birth.

Smawfl - sorry about your pram issues! At least you've started looking nice and early so you have plenty of time to find 'the one'!! Are you going to take both a pink and a blue outfit to the hospital? I don't understand how you can be team but then know which colour to take?!

Mini -good to hear from you. Sounds like a good idea to start up a TTC thread And as the others have said we'd still like to see you on here! Lots of and hope your UTI clears up quickly.

 

[smawfl]

Hi lovely ladies, I'm loving this long weekend, gutted to be back to work tomorrow!

Just been to see American Pie Reunion, very funny (If you liked the first ones!)

Gaiagirl - love the new pic!
Have you seen the Cruz in real life? What did you think of it? I'm hoping to see it at a Baby Show in a couple of weeks but can't get it over here until July. Apparently it can be used from birth?
I'm also gutted about DHW! I think you must be further ahead than us over here. I don't want it to end!!
Make sure you post a pic of your bump!

Seaweed - Yes the ones I've been looking at can attach the car seat to the stroller.
That's interesting about the Doula.. makes sense though, I wouldn't want a Csection either but if needs be I'm not adverse to it, whatever it takes to get Baby out safely.

Pussycat - Yep I'll take both pink and blue to the hospital.. Tempted to get a pink and a blue blanket too but I guess I could get that after and just get a nice white blanket.

 

[FeelSoBlessed]

Hello you wonderful Decemberists!

I've been reading up and how you are all getting on here and there - but hardly finding time to catch up!

Been painting nursery (opted for grey and yellow - although we were so tempted to go purple and melon sorbet... a pale greeny colour)! Just having some fitted wardrobes put in to our room and LOs room... it's starting to feel real now!!

We have put down a deposit on our travel system... iCandy Strawberry!!! Hope it doesn't take too long to arrive!!! iCandy seem to be stocking a limited amount.

In a nutshell - it's all go but absolutely loving the prep. DH has been a God send, just so remarkable - working hard and really enjoying it all... whilst I sit there and admire things coming along. Feel like a bit of a spare part at times but don't want to over do anything!!

Attended Mum-2-be-yoga class last week. I enjoyed it but nearly fell asleep at the end! Very relaxing!!

Looking forward to Baby show now... but currently not wanting time to go too quickly!!!!

And... it was my V-day yesterday!

Hope you are all well guys

Have a good week

 

[smawfl]

Hello you wonderful Decemberists!

I've been reading up and how you are all getting on here and there - but hardly finding time to catch up!

Been painting nursery (opted for grey and yellow - although we were so tempted to go purple and melon sorbet... a pale greeny colour)! Just having some fitted wardrobes put in to our room and LOs room... it's starting to feel real now!!

We have put down a deposit on our travel system... iCandy Strawberry!!! Hope it doesn't take too long to arrive!!! iCandy seem to be stocking a limited amount.

In a nutshell - it's all go but absolutely loving the prep. DH has been a God send, just so remarkable - working hard and really enjoying it all... whilst I sit there and admire things coming along. Feel like a bit of a spare part at times but don't want to over do anything!!

Attended Mum-2-be-yoga class last week. I enjoyed it but nearly fell asleep at the end! Very relaxing!!

Looking forward to Baby show now... but currently not wanting time to go too quickly!!!!

And... it was my V-day yesterday!

Hope you are all well guys

Have a good week

Sooooooooooo jealous you got the Strawberry!! what car have you got? I'm so tempted to upgrade my car just so it will fit

Nursery sounds lovely, you'll have to post pics once it's done!

Congrats on V day - I thought it was 24 weeks though?!

 

[FeelSoBlessed]

Hey smawfl.

I've got an Audi A3 so luckily huge boot space. A new car to fit the strawberry Not sure you'll be in your OHs good books!!!

I'm 24 weeks according to each scan I've had (23 weeks by my dates)... so I chop and choose depending on what suits the situation best!!

I will defo post nursery pics once all is complete!! x

 

[smawfl]

Hey smawfl.

I've got an Audi A3 so luckily huge boot space. A new car to fit the strawberry Not sure you'll be in your OHs good books!!!

I'm 24 weeks according to each scan I've had (23 weeks by my dates)... so I chop and choose depending on what suits the situation best!!

I will defo post nursery pics once all is complete!! x

Ahhhhhhhh sorry I only saw the 23 week ticker! yay for Vday!

 

[Shh]

Hi everyone!

Smawfl - what car have you got? I found that the Bee+ and the Peach both fitted in the boot of my Clio well. But I guess if the Strwberry doesn't fit then they won't, but I haven't seen a Strawberry in real life so

Mini - I hope the UTI clears up quickly and that the Preseed does its trick!! And no, of course nobody is offended! We'll still be thinking of you though.

FeelsoBlessed - nursery sounds fabulous, lovely colour combo, can you post some pics?

Gaiagirl - so pleased you're starting to fell better and ms is on its way out. My gag reflex is definitely still more sensitive than usual.

HanyouMama - I hope the move went well and that your ms is easing now.

Seaweed - I looked into having a Doula and on reflection it definitely would have helped me in labour as I needed someone to suggest/tell me what to do in terms of breathing/positioning etc. I got into a real panic and because I don't care what I do/say/cry etc in front of DH, there was nobody to bring me back to reality and stop me from panicking iyswim? I did SO much prep for birth - private antenatal classes, birth yoga, hypnotherapy, but it all went out of the window when I began to panic! I'm still considering one this time but because I may have to have an elective section I can't really justify the money.

Pusscat - when does your DH get back? I hope you're coping ok without him, can you Skype?

I hope everyone else is doing really well, any more news from the TTCers?

AFM - had consultant appointment last week, less than impressed, so may remove myself from his care and ask to go midwife-led instead, decision to be made after I talk to my own midwife. On the plus side, got to see the baby again - its grown SO much! I've got my 20 week scan this week, so yet another peek - yay! Feeling much more energetic, despite having a rotten cold, so house clean and lots of work done, but my goodness, pregnancy brain has kicked in, I can hardly remember my own name!!

 

[seaweed eater]

Shh, I feel the same way about not wanting to spend the money if I end up having a planned section. If it's something you're interested in, you may want to interview people anyway and see how they would respond to that situation. A couple of the ones I talked to said they will give a partial refund if we find out we need a section and prefer not to use their services at the birth, and almost all of them said that they would try to spend some extra time postpartum with breastfeeding advice, helping with things that are difficult for me as I recover from the surgery, etc, compared to what they would do with a normal labor and birth.

Why would you need to have an elective section this time? I can't remember, did you end up needing to have an emergency one last time?

Best of luck with your scan, can't wait to hear about it you're no longer "teeny-tiny bit pregnant"!

FSB, congrats on V-day!! That is a huge deal! And you're about to be in double digits, too!!

 

[gaiagirl]

14 week bump!

 

[gaiagirl]

PS - We find out the sex on June 16th!!!!!

 

[smawfl]

The good thing about coming back to work after a long weekend, is that this week is a short working week! Plus we have our 20 week scan on Friday! I'm quite nervous to be honest... Especially as the ticklings I'm feeling are quite sporadic. Felt loads on Wednesday night, then a few quiet days then a little again over the weekend. I just want the big kicks now!

Maybe a TMI question but how often have you girls been BDing (is it still called that after a BFP?!) since getting your BFP? We did last night for the first time, our longest ever dry spell. Was quite nervous actually, especially after I'd had the spotting early on but hopefully everything is ok.

Shh - I've got a Peugeot 206 - the boot is deceivingly small!!
Glad you've got more energy now!

Gaiagirl - love the bump and exciting about your gender scan! Do you have a 'feeling' as to what it may be?

 

[Shh]

Seaweed - I ended up having an emergency section last time, induced labour as I went two weeks over and then 30 hours of labour and only got to 5cm... My daughter was 9lbs5oz, so they're saying that if it 'looks like' I'm having a big baby again then they'll want to section me at 39 weeks, whereas I'd like a VBAC, which my midwife supports. The most likely reason for my failure to progress was my daughter's bad positioning, not just that she was a big baby. I'll definitely e-mail a couple that are close enough to me and see what they say. I have to say, I was very fortunate last time, I recovered really quickly and didn't have any major problems with establishing feeding etc, and had DH/family on hand post-section to assist me, so I'm not too nervous about that, I'm more worried about not being able to pick up my daughter etc. (if you have any questions about having a section, please ask, I had a really positive experience of a section - I healed well, drove after 4 weeks etc).

Gaia - oh my goodness, your bump is getting big! Very cute! And whoop to decision made re sex!

Smwafl - We don't BD too often, and generally I'm a bit limited to positions as I don't find it as comfortable as usual (not sure why?!), but I do worry a bit, I only did it twice in the first 12 weeks as I was so nervous. The last time we DTD (alternative term to BD!!) I had quite a lot of shooting pains and cramping for 24 after, so not too keen. I was the same last pregnancy, we didn't DTD very often, until I went overdue, then I would have tried anything to get the baby moving! Sadly I don't feel very attractive when I'm a little bit, or hugely, pregnant, at the moment though I feel ok, BBs are big and bump is pronounced enough to look like a bump rather than just fat! Being pregnant doesn't increase my sex-drive sadly though! (Sorry, far too much detail!!)

 

[smawfl]

Smwafl - We don't BD too often, and generally I'm a bit limited to positions as I don't find it as comfortable as usual (not sure why?!), but I do worry a bit, I only did it twice in the first 12 weeks as I was so nervous. The last time we DTD (alternative term to BD!!) I had quite a lot of shooting pains and cramping for 24 after, so not too keen. I was the same last pregnancy, we didn't DTD very often, until I went overdue, then I would have tried anything to get the baby moving! Sadly I don't feel very attractive when I'm a little bit, or hugely, pregnant, at the moment though I feel ok, BBs are big and bump is pronounced enough to look like a bump rather than just fat! Being pregnant doesn't increase my sex-drive sadly though! (Sorry, far too much detail!!)

I know.. I wonder if all these women who have mega increased drive are telling porkies?! I enjoyed it A LOT, but was constantly worrying about baby, and whether I'd bleed.