July 24th Post: And...We're...Waiting...:
Today has come and gone, and with it, the chances of Baby J. being born on her due date. No problem; our entire family has become pretty good at the waiting game, so we'll just play a little longer!
I was up super early and got a lot of work done: grad school stuff, cleaned out my car, dusted and vacuumed the house, etc. Around lunch time, we met Zach's Jankowski relatives for a bite to eat. His cousin Kristen brought her two little ones, Jack and Erin, and it was quite entertaining watching Zach observe them. Neither child stayed still longer than a minute at a time; Kristen spent a good portion of the visit running to block the kids from the stairs! Afterward, I told Zach that could be his job since he has so much pent-up energy to begin with :o)
For whatever reason, my brother felt it necessary to celebrate his birthday THREE times this week: Sunday was the family party, Thursday was the birthday dinner, and today we went to the Hopfrahaus (sp?) in the South Side with a whole crew of people. After the nice German accordion player announced a few birthdays and other special occasions, my mom saw the opportunity to have the baby's due date announced. So, I'm clearly in the running for mother-of-the-year since everyone in the place knows I spent the day my first child was to enter the world in a BAR!!!! But people were nice and played along; they lifted their mugs to me and drank themselves retarded. Good times.
My lower back is KILLING me today, and I don't know if it's because I did so much sitting around (lunch with the Jankowskis, the ride to and from the South Side, dinner at on a huge wooden bench, etc.) or if it's a SIGN. As always, I'll pretend it's a sign.
Speaking of signs, I do believe that I lost my...WARNING: GROSS INFO ON THE WAY...mucus plug today! I actually made Zach look to confirm it--that was fun :o) I texted my dad the news only because it's entirely too entertaining to pass up an opportunity to get him all worked up! Within minutes, he had asked every woman he came across at work and on the job about their mucus plugs! He then texted back that "your baby is coming within two days. I've done my research." Even though he himself said I had a least 48 hours, he was a MESS all day long! I think he's more nervous and antsy than Zach and I put together!! Poor guy :o)
Zach invited himself back into our bed last night, and I actually slept pretty well, so he'll be allowed to rejoin me again this evening :o) Plus, I'll admit that I'm scared of going into labor and he'll be out of arm's length!
Friday, July 24, 2009
Thursday, July 23, 2009
July 23rd Post: Happy Birthday to Mike...but Not Baby J.!
Today started with a wonderful doctor appointment; I actually lost a pound (ha!), I'm effaced and dilated the same, the baby has dropped signficantly, and my cervix is tilted and ready for action. The doctor said she likes what's going on because my body is getting ready--but I've heard that before! She was a little concerned with the swelling of my feet and hands and said if I wake up and my face is swollen, too, that I should call her, but I think the swelling had more to do with me waiting for almost FORTY MINUTES with my legs dangling off of a table than my blood pressure (which is still good at 100/70) or the humidity!! Anyway, the baby is positioned so that when she does drop into the birth canal, she'll be facing the right direction, so I should avoid back labor. What a good baby :o)
After my appointment, my mom and I stopped at Target where I ran into a good friend from high school. She, too, was with her mom and her new baby girl! We chatted and exchanged numbers and e-mail addresses; it was sooo wonderful seeing her again! And also a bit of a reality check that we graduated TEN years ago and are starting families!! Whoa!
Speaking of families, other friends just found out that they're pregnant for the second time. I think it was a surprise because their first is only 7 months old, but when I talked to them, they seemed pumped about it. I just love this--so many babies!!
Tomorrow, Zach and I are eating lunch with his Jankowski relatives...unless of course I go into labor! After today's appointment and some spotting (after the doctor's and more this evening), I'd like to pretend that I'm losing my mucus plug (sorry if that's too much info!) and I'll be pushing by this time tomorrow. I think I'm ending all of my posts like this now, aren't I?! It is rude to be late, so let's hope Baby J. isn't a rude little one :o)
Today started with a wonderful doctor appointment; I actually lost a pound (ha!), I'm effaced and dilated the same, the baby has dropped signficantly, and my cervix is tilted and ready for action. The doctor said she likes what's going on because my body is getting ready--but I've heard that before! She was a little concerned with the swelling of my feet and hands and said if I wake up and my face is swollen, too, that I should call her, but I think the swelling had more to do with me waiting for almost FORTY MINUTES with my legs dangling off of a table than my blood pressure (which is still good at 100/70) or the humidity!! Anyway, the baby is positioned so that when she does drop into the birth canal, she'll be facing the right direction, so I should avoid back labor. What a good baby :o)
After my appointment, my mom and I stopped at Target where I ran into a good friend from high school. She, too, was with her mom and her new baby girl! We chatted and exchanged numbers and e-mail addresses; it was sooo wonderful seeing her again! And also a bit of a reality check that we graduated TEN years ago and are starting families!! Whoa!
Speaking of families, other friends just found out that they're pregnant for the second time. I think it was a surprise because their first is only 7 months old, but when I talked to them, they seemed pumped about it. I just love this--so many babies!!
Tomorrow, Zach and I are eating lunch with his Jankowski relatives...unless of course I go into labor! After today's appointment and some spotting (after the doctor's and more this evening), I'd like to pretend that I'm losing my mucus plug (sorry if that's too much info!) and I'll be pushing by this time tomorrow. I think I'm ending all of my posts like this now, aren't I?! It is rude to be late, so let's hope Baby J. isn't a rude little one :o)
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
July 22nd Post: No Action Today
After yesterday's antics, I had high expectations for Baby J. today! Unfortunately, she was fairly quiet and nothing much really happened in terms of contractions, pains, labor, etc. Therefore, it's 2 days before the official due date and we're still hanging in there. I have a good feeling about tomorrow's doctor appointment, though: I'm feeling like the baby dropped and those B-H contractions helped open things up a bit more, too! Then again, I'm no professional, just a gal with big dreams!!
Gran Scalzott came over today and we all had lunch on the deck. It was very nice just to relax and spend time with one other--plus, I got to look at a zillion pictures of Zach when he was a baby. ADORABLE! I can't wait to see Baby J.--whose eyes will she have? Whose coloring? Whose nose? I am just so excited I can barely contain myself any more!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Lots of family and friends are in town for the next few days; Zach's Jankowski clan is visiting from Phoenix and good family friends are in from California. I hope to be able to spend time with everyone, but if I happen to, you know, go into labor and miss out on some quality time, I think I'll get over it!
Missed my nap today, so I'm off to bed. Let's all think good thoughts for tomorrow's appointment, and by good, I mean: "Stephanie, just head to the hospital..." You know the rest!
After yesterday's antics, I had high expectations for Baby J. today! Unfortunately, she was fairly quiet and nothing much really happened in terms of contractions, pains, labor, etc. Therefore, it's 2 days before the official due date and we're still hanging in there. I have a good feeling about tomorrow's doctor appointment, though: I'm feeling like the baby dropped and those B-H contractions helped open things up a bit more, too! Then again, I'm no professional, just a gal with big dreams!!
Gran Scalzott came over today and we all had lunch on the deck. It was very nice just to relax and spend time with one other--plus, I got to look at a zillion pictures of Zach when he was a baby. ADORABLE! I can't wait to see Baby J.--whose eyes will she have? Whose coloring? Whose nose? I am just so excited I can barely contain myself any more!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Lots of family and friends are in town for the next few days; Zach's Jankowski clan is visiting from Phoenix and good family friends are in from California. I hope to be able to spend time with everyone, but if I happen to, you know, go into labor and miss out on some quality time, I think I'll get over it!
Missed my nap today, so I'm off to bed. Let's all think good thoughts for tomorrow's appointment, and by good, I mean: "Stephanie, just head to the hospital..." You know the rest!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
July 21st Post: A Sneak Preview?
As it's only about 5:30 pm, this post is coming much earlier than normal. This is for 2 reasons: 1. I didn't sleep last night, so I'm hoping to eat dinner in the next half an hour and then pass out and 2. the highlight of the day has come and gone, so I figured I might as well share while I'm still awake!
Around 7 am this morning, I started feeling "something" in my stomach. The sensation was pretty constant, but kept changing. At first it felt like pressure, then menstrual cramps, and then I'd get a shooting pain in my groin/lower abdomen. Then it would subside for a few minutes only to start the same pattern again. This continued all day until about a half an hour ago, so from 7 am to 5 pm I was wondering, "Is this it?!" Part of me was absolutely thrilled, another part was terrified, and yet another part felt stupid because I couldn't tell if I really was in labor or not!! Everyone who has been through it says I'll know, and so I'm taking them at their word: I'm not in labor...yet! Those Braxton-Hicks contractions were as painful and as long and drawn out as they've ever been, though, so I think Baby J. is preparing me for what's coming. Also, because I already think this child is the most perfect creature ever, I think he/she gave me something to look forward to since I was so bummed about the canceled doctor appointment yesterday. Zach says I'm nuts. I say I just might be...
Speaking of Zachary, he is on MY LIST. For those of you who have been expectant mothers and/or who are sensitive to certain things (ie: smells, sounds, etc.), you will appreciate where I'm coming from:
Zach had to tutor my cousin in Monroeville today, so I met him at my dad's office (half way) and we drove in together because Zach was coming from summer school and it didn't make sense for us to both drive. As a result, he asked me to bring the gas can so he could fill it up to cut the grass. Okay, no problem. Only he failed to warn me that there was some gas in there and that the lid was not on tightly; my car WREAKS like gas. I had such a headache driving with that stench, and what's worse is that my hospital pillows--not to mention the car seat!--are in the car and now smell like a BP station. Anyhoo, I pick up my handsome husband and see that he has purchased lunch (for himself only!), and to my dismay it was a hot dog with sauerkraut and raw onions. At this point in time, I must rewind to yesterday where I opened a container in the fridge consisting of the exact same foods, gagged, and told Zach that even looking at that "crap" made me want to vomit. Coming back to present time, I am sitting next to my husband who is HOUSING this hot dog ("the faster I eat it, the less you'll have to smell it") while we inhale gaseous fumes. So if our child comes out cross-eyed or if I need extra oxygen, we'll know who to blame!!! At this point in time, he asks that I mention his redeeming task of the day: putting up our new mailbox. He did a wonderful job and should be commended...then again, he took a mallet to the deck and POUNDED away with me just four feet from the noise, knowing that loud noises have been my only consistent complaint throughout this long, long pregnancy. When I asked him to stop because I thought my brain would explode, he then remembered: "Ooooh, you don't like loud noise. I wasn't thinking." All I can say is he's lucky he's cute.
Off to find some dinner and then hopefully get to bed early. I feel badly about it, but either Zach or I is going to be exiled from the bedroom. He fell asleep and stayed on the couch two nights last week and I slept much better for whatever reason--more room? Less body heat? So I've surmised that until Baby J. graces us with his/her presence, I'm sleeping solo!
As it's only about 5:30 pm, this post is coming much earlier than normal. This is for 2 reasons: 1. I didn't sleep last night, so I'm hoping to eat dinner in the next half an hour and then pass out and 2. the highlight of the day has come and gone, so I figured I might as well share while I'm still awake!
Around 7 am this morning, I started feeling "something" in my stomach. The sensation was pretty constant, but kept changing. At first it felt like pressure, then menstrual cramps, and then I'd get a shooting pain in my groin/lower abdomen. Then it would subside for a few minutes only to start the same pattern again. This continued all day until about a half an hour ago, so from 7 am to 5 pm I was wondering, "Is this it?!" Part of me was absolutely thrilled, another part was terrified, and yet another part felt stupid because I couldn't tell if I really was in labor or not!! Everyone who has been through it says I'll know, and so I'm taking them at their word: I'm not in labor...yet! Those Braxton-Hicks contractions were as painful and as long and drawn out as they've ever been, though, so I think Baby J. is preparing me for what's coming. Also, because I already think this child is the most perfect creature ever, I think he/she gave me something to look forward to since I was so bummed about the canceled doctor appointment yesterday. Zach says I'm nuts. I say I just might be...
Speaking of Zachary, he is on MY LIST. For those of you who have been expectant mothers and/or who are sensitive to certain things (ie: smells, sounds, etc.), you will appreciate where I'm coming from:
Zach had to tutor my cousin in Monroeville today, so I met him at my dad's office (half way) and we drove in together because Zach was coming from summer school and it didn't make sense for us to both drive. As a result, he asked me to bring the gas can so he could fill it up to cut the grass. Okay, no problem. Only he failed to warn me that there was some gas in there and that the lid was not on tightly; my car WREAKS like gas. I had such a headache driving with that stench, and what's worse is that my hospital pillows--not to mention the car seat!--are in the car and now smell like a BP station. Anyhoo, I pick up my handsome husband and see that he has purchased lunch (for himself only!), and to my dismay it was a hot dog with sauerkraut and raw onions. At this point in time, I must rewind to yesterday where I opened a container in the fridge consisting of the exact same foods, gagged, and told Zach that even looking at that "crap" made me want to vomit. Coming back to present time, I am sitting next to my husband who is HOUSING this hot dog ("the faster I eat it, the less you'll have to smell it") while we inhale gaseous fumes. So if our child comes out cross-eyed or if I need extra oxygen, we'll know who to blame!!! At this point in time, he asks that I mention his redeeming task of the day: putting up our new mailbox. He did a wonderful job and should be commended...then again, he took a mallet to the deck and POUNDED away with me just four feet from the noise, knowing that loud noises have been my only consistent complaint throughout this long, long pregnancy. When I asked him to stop because I thought my brain would explode, he then remembered: "Ooooh, you don't like loud noise. I wasn't thinking." All I can say is he's lucky he's cute.
Off to find some dinner and then hopefully get to bed early. I feel badly about it, but either Zach or I is going to be exiled from the bedroom. He fell asleep and stayed on the couch two nights last week and I slept much better for whatever reason--more room? Less body heat? So I've surmised that until Baby J. graces us with his/her presence, I'm sleeping solo!
Monday, July 20, 2009
July 20th Post: Boo for Rescheduling
So, today was boring. The main event of my Monday was supposed to be my doctor appointment (you know, the one where they say, "Stephanie! You're in labor--go have that baby already!"), but alas, it was canceled. I got the call super early so it's not like I had started to drive there yet (nor had I even showered in preparation yet!), but I was sooo bummed when they said I'd have to come on Thursday now. I realize this is not a big deal, but I guess I was just very excited about the appointment and now to have to wait--MORE waiting!--makes me sad! Nothing I can do, though, so I'll just hang in there.
On the bright side, I got a ton of my grad work done since I was up so early. Then Zach and I joined his fam to celebrate Pap-Pap Ted's birthday. He's always a good time :o) We hardly ever see that side of the "Zach Clan," so we look forward to spending time with them when we can. Grandma Barb just adores Zach and is pulling for a Zach junior if we do in fact have a boy. I've liked the idea of naming the baby Zachary for a while now, but it's daddy Zach that doesn't know if he likes it or not. I still think it's a girl (and Zach has actually admitted to wanting a little girl!), so maybe we won't have to worry about boys' names at all right now!!
I was re-reading some of my old posts and came across a promise that when it was big enough, I would share pictures of me balancing various things (a bowl of cereal, I believe) atop my table-like belly. So I've added taking that picture to my "to-do" list. At this point, I'll put anything on that damn list so I don't make myself crazy with anticipation :o)
So, today was boring. The main event of my Monday was supposed to be my doctor appointment (you know, the one where they say, "Stephanie! You're in labor--go have that baby already!"), but alas, it was canceled. I got the call super early so it's not like I had started to drive there yet (nor had I even showered in preparation yet!), but I was sooo bummed when they said I'd have to come on Thursday now. I realize this is not a big deal, but I guess I was just very excited about the appointment and now to have to wait--MORE waiting!--makes me sad! Nothing I can do, though, so I'll just hang in there.
On the bright side, I got a ton of my grad work done since I was up so early. Then Zach and I joined his fam to celebrate Pap-Pap Ted's birthday. He's always a good time :o) We hardly ever see that side of the "Zach Clan," so we look forward to spending time with them when we can. Grandma Barb just adores Zach and is pulling for a Zach junior if we do in fact have a boy. I've liked the idea of naming the baby Zachary for a while now, but it's daddy Zach that doesn't know if he likes it or not. I still think it's a girl (and Zach has actually admitted to wanting a little girl!), so maybe we won't have to worry about boys' names at all right now!!
I was re-reading some of my old posts and came across a promise that when it was big enough, I would share pictures of me balancing various things (a bowl of cereal, I believe) atop my table-like belly. So I've added taking that picture to my "to-do" list. At this point, I'll put anything on that damn list so I don't make myself crazy with anticipation :o)
Sunday, July 19, 2009
July 19th Post: Baby Surprise and a Rant!
As much as I would LOVE to post that Baby J. is here before his/her due date (SURPRISE!), I cannot. That part of the title refers to my cousins, Rob and Maria, sharing the news that they are pregnant with their 3rd child. The reason this is such a surprise is because they are 43 and 40 years old, just gave us all of their baby gear that they wanted to get rid of, and Maria was about to schedule the operation to have her tubes tied!! I guess the family is reacting with mix emotions, but I say any baby is exciting news! Their oldest child isn't more than 5 years old, so I think this is perfect timing :o) We will, of course, have to return the baby gear, but not until they need it which will be sometime in April. Two babies in the family--how fun!!
We celebrated Mike's birthday with the extended family today. It's always fun to get together except when one of my relatives (who shall remain nameless) wears her Mean Hat to our family functions. And so my rant begins...
For instance, the day we told my side of the family we were expecting, everyone was in tears--including my father--and this particular relative chose to leave the room and sit by herself in the living room. When asked why, we were told she was having a "bad day." Yeah, well, we were having a GREAT day--feel free to be happy for us for about a minute. Since our announcement, and especially since I've been showing, she's opted to call me things like chubby and fatty. Fine, I can take a joke. What I can't take ANY MORE of is HER telling ME about MY pregnancy: how I'll be feeling, what I should expect, warning my husband that I'm going to be unmanageable when the baby comes, that I shouldn't have gone on vacation because I had the potential to ruin it for everyone else, that I'm welcome to swim at her place because the neighbors will think there's a whale in her pool, etc. Someone PLEASE explain to me how those with ZERO first-hand knowledge of something can justify acting like they know everything? How can she tell me what B-H contractions feel like? How can she possibly relate to my sleepless nights due to the discomfort caused by the 30+ pounds around my waist? She actually argued that women aren't pregnant for 10 months--when anyone who has read a book and/or spoken with a doctor can attest is the truth--and told me to tell my doctor that SHE is wrong because my relative is right. Man oh man--I was ready to lose it today.
If there has to be a bright side to her incessant degradation and insults, it is this: I have proven to myself (and those who are stunned that I haven't mouthed off yet!) that I have more patience than I thought. I guess it's good practice for when the little one comes, but I still have ZERO tolerance for people who talk about things that they know nothing about.
I do have an appointment tomorrow morning, though; maybe I should ask for my doctor to explain--in writing--the whole "ten month" thing. But something tells me even on official doctor's office paper with a signature and all, my relative would still maintain that she knows more than the professional and, therefore, she is right.
Fingers crossed I'm making progress--let's shoot for about 5 centimeters dilation :o)
As much as I would LOVE to post that Baby J. is here before his/her due date (SURPRISE!), I cannot. That part of the title refers to my cousins, Rob and Maria, sharing the news that they are pregnant with their 3rd child. The reason this is such a surprise is because they are 43 and 40 years old, just gave us all of their baby gear that they wanted to get rid of, and Maria was about to schedule the operation to have her tubes tied!! I guess the family is reacting with mix emotions, but I say any baby is exciting news! Their oldest child isn't more than 5 years old, so I think this is perfect timing :o) We will, of course, have to return the baby gear, but not until they need it which will be sometime in April. Two babies in the family--how fun!!
We celebrated Mike's birthday with the extended family today. It's always fun to get together except when one of my relatives (who shall remain nameless) wears her Mean Hat to our family functions. And so my rant begins...
For instance, the day we told my side of the family we were expecting, everyone was in tears--including my father--and this particular relative chose to leave the room and sit by herself in the living room. When asked why, we were told she was having a "bad day." Yeah, well, we were having a GREAT day--feel free to be happy for us for about a minute. Since our announcement, and especially since I've been showing, she's opted to call me things like chubby and fatty. Fine, I can take a joke. What I can't take ANY MORE of is HER telling ME about MY pregnancy: how I'll be feeling, what I should expect, warning my husband that I'm going to be unmanageable when the baby comes, that I shouldn't have gone on vacation because I had the potential to ruin it for everyone else, that I'm welcome to swim at her place because the neighbors will think there's a whale in her pool, etc. Someone PLEASE explain to me how those with ZERO first-hand knowledge of something can justify acting like they know everything? How can she tell me what B-H contractions feel like? How can she possibly relate to my sleepless nights due to the discomfort caused by the 30+ pounds around my waist? She actually argued that women aren't pregnant for 10 months--when anyone who has read a book and/or spoken with a doctor can attest is the truth--and told me to tell my doctor that SHE is wrong because my relative is right. Man oh man--I was ready to lose it today.
If there has to be a bright side to her incessant degradation and insults, it is this: I have proven to myself (and those who are stunned that I haven't mouthed off yet!) that I have more patience than I thought. I guess it's good practice for when the little one comes, but I still have ZERO tolerance for people who talk about things that they know nothing about.
I do have an appointment tomorrow morning, though; maybe I should ask for my doctor to explain--in writing--the whole "ten month" thing. But something tells me even on official doctor's office paper with a signature and all, my relative would still maintain that she knows more than the professional and, therefore, she is right.
Fingers crossed I'm making progress--let's shoot for about 5 centimeters dilation :o)
Saturday, July 18, 2009
July 18th Post: Another Day Closer
Another super crappy night of sleep for me. I traveled all around the house until I found comfort on the couch, and by that point, it was time to watch the sun rise. So, I sat by the window in the living room, witnessed a beautiful sign rise, and fell asleep for an hour or so. I woke up when Zach left to golf, fell back asleep for another hour, and then my mother called at 8:30!! I wanted to hurt my dear mommy; she called to see how I had slept!!!!! Seriously, 8:30??!! For all of you reading this, please don't call me at 8:30 unless it's an emergency!!
Once I was awake, I was a busy bee. I felt the need to rearrange all of the baby's diapers so that they are now in the closet in order: newborns, 1, 2, and 3's. I then rearranged all of the baby's clothes in the drawers. Then I vacuumed the upstairs, cleaned our bathroom, and scrubbed the shower. Everyone keeps telling me nesting is a sign of imminent labor---------I'm waiting!!
Zach and I took a short road trip to Lyndora to watch the Palomino team play in a championship game. It was great seeing a lot of our "baseball pals," even if the team did end up losing. It was a really tight, exciting game regardless of the final score. After some baseball, Dave Rupert (Zach's childhood friend and a groomsman in our wedding) stopped by with his fiance, Laura. They're planning an April wedding in Virgina, and Zach's already worried about what we'll do with Baby J. when we go: "Can babies go to weddings?!" :o)
I'm beyond sleepy, so here's hoping I can get some shut eye tonight. Because Zach is wonderful (and waking up early again), he's offered to sleep elsewhere this evening, so let's see if that makes a difference. If it does, my hubby will be ostracized from the bedroom until this baby is here!!
Another super crappy night of sleep for me. I traveled all around the house until I found comfort on the couch, and by that point, it was time to watch the sun rise. So, I sat by the window in the living room, witnessed a beautiful sign rise, and fell asleep for an hour or so. I woke up when Zach left to golf, fell back asleep for another hour, and then my mother called at 8:30!! I wanted to hurt my dear mommy; she called to see how I had slept!!!!! Seriously, 8:30??!! For all of you reading this, please don't call me at 8:30 unless it's an emergency!!
Once I was awake, I was a busy bee. I felt the need to rearrange all of the baby's diapers so that they are now in the closet in order: newborns, 1, 2, and 3's. I then rearranged all of the baby's clothes in the drawers. Then I vacuumed the upstairs, cleaned our bathroom, and scrubbed the shower. Everyone keeps telling me nesting is a sign of imminent labor---------I'm waiting!!
Zach and I took a short road trip to Lyndora to watch the Palomino team play in a championship game. It was great seeing a lot of our "baseball pals," even if the team did end up losing. It was a really tight, exciting game regardless of the final score. After some baseball, Dave Rupert (Zach's childhood friend and a groomsman in our wedding) stopped by with his fiance, Laura. They're planning an April wedding in Virgina, and Zach's already worried about what we'll do with Baby J. when we go: "Can babies go to weddings?!" :o)
I'm beyond sleepy, so here's hoping I can get some shut eye tonight. Because Zach is wonderful (and waking up early again), he's offered to sleep elsewhere this evening, so let's see if that makes a difference. If it does, my hubby will be ostracized from the bedroom until this baby is here!!
Friday, July 17, 2009
July 17th Post: Zach's Predictions
Because my brother has made numerous comments about how Baby J. "better not ruin his birthday" which is on the 23rd, Zach has made a few predictions. We're celebrating Mike's bday with the family this Sunday, and then next Friday, he wants to go to the South Side (of course, he's never easy!) to celebrate with friends--yet that includes my pregnant self...--Zach is convinced that the baby will come on or around one of those 2 days. I, of course, am rooting for this Sunday, but either day would be hysterical because Mike's birthday plans would definitely be thrown for a loop!! At any rate, Gran Scalzott lost her bet in the poll when the baby didn't come yesterday, and Aunt Jean lost hers when he/she didn't grace us today. It's so weird to know we only have 7 days until the actual due date. But we are ready! Every day I wake up, I tell myself "this could be the day," and then I mentally prepare myself. Zach, I believe, is also ready to roll. He said that he's getting very excited and less nervous; "I won't be nervous after the baby is here and I know you and he/she are okay," were his exact words. When asked if he's nervous for those first few weeks at home--with no live-in nurse like at the hospital--he referred back to all of the "unfit" parents out there that don't mess up their kids and assures me that he and I will be okay :o)
We went to dinner with my parents (again!) tonight and opted to sit on the covered patio at the restaurant. In retrospect, not a good idea. A storm like none other came through and we were DRENCHED in the middle of our dinner. Thankfully, we were all amused by it and chose to stand in the middle of the patio (where the rain wasn't blowing in, soaking us and our food), eat standing up or at another table, and just laughed the entire time. When we finally left, the place was pretty flooded. Had I had my camera, I definitely would've taken some pictures because it was surely a good time!
Speaking of pictures, attached are a few of the latest and greatest. As I was uploading them, I realized they may some of the last we take before we're officially parents. Man, I love that :o)
Because my brother has made numerous comments about how Baby J. "better not ruin his birthday" which is on the 23rd, Zach has made a few predictions. We're celebrating Mike's bday with the family this Sunday, and then next Friday, he wants to go to the South Side (of course, he's never easy!) to celebrate with friends--yet that includes my pregnant self...--Zach is convinced that the baby will come on or around one of those 2 days. I, of course, am rooting for this Sunday, but either day would be hysterical because Mike's birthday plans would definitely be thrown for a loop!! At any rate, Gran Scalzott lost her bet in the poll when the baby didn't come yesterday, and Aunt Jean lost hers when he/she didn't grace us today. It's so weird to know we only have 7 days until the actual due date. But we are ready! Every day I wake up, I tell myself "this could be the day," and then I mentally prepare myself. Zach, I believe, is also ready to roll. He said that he's getting very excited and less nervous; "I won't be nervous after the baby is here and I know you and he/she are okay," were his exact words. When asked if he's nervous for those first few weeks at home--with no live-in nurse like at the hospital--he referred back to all of the "unfit" parents out there that don't mess up their kids and assures me that he and I will be okay :o)
We went to dinner with my parents (again!) tonight and opted to sit on the covered patio at the restaurant. In retrospect, not a good idea. A storm like none other came through and we were DRENCHED in the middle of our dinner. Thankfully, we were all amused by it and chose to stand in the middle of the patio (where the rain wasn't blowing in, soaking us and our food), eat standing up or at another table, and just laughed the entire time. When we finally left, the place was pretty flooded. Had I had my camera, I definitely would've taken some pictures because it was surely a good time!
Speaking of pictures, attached are a few of the latest and greatest. As I was uploading them, I realized they may some of the last we take before we're officially parents. Man, I love that :o)
Thursday, July 16, 2009
July 16th Post: Lazy Day in the...Pool
I woke up this morning and vacuumed the entire downstairs. True, it was about that time due to the accumulation of dog hair, but it's also true that cleaning is my new obsession. After my sweeping endeavors, I attempted to work on some grad school stuff outside on the deck with the dogs, but it rained briefly and sent us inside and my attention to other things: more cleaning! The afternoon warmed up pretty well, so I went to my aunt's neighbor's again and floated around (yes, that's right--contrary to what my brother thinks, I did NOT sink the raft!) for a few hours. The whole time I was doing nothing, my wonderful husband was working on our "before-baby-arrives to-do list;" he was pouring cement for our new mailbox when I returned sun kissed and ready for a nap!
We went to dinner with my parents where I ate four hundred pounds of gnocchi, which is why it's only 8 pm and I'm ready for bed. I normally eat smaller portions these days because, let's face it, I'm running out of room, but not tonight! That floating in the pool was hard work :o)
I've been having pains again--every move the baby makes hurts these days, but even when the baby is still, I'm experiencing what I can only guess is more Braxton Hicks. Fine by me--get that uterus some practice and get that baby into my arms!!
I woke up this morning and vacuumed the entire downstairs. True, it was about that time due to the accumulation of dog hair, but it's also true that cleaning is my new obsession. After my sweeping endeavors, I attempted to work on some grad school stuff outside on the deck with the dogs, but it rained briefly and sent us inside and my attention to other things: more cleaning! The afternoon warmed up pretty well, so I went to my aunt's neighbor's again and floated around (yes, that's right--contrary to what my brother thinks, I did NOT sink the raft!) for a few hours. The whole time I was doing nothing, my wonderful husband was working on our "before-baby-arrives to-do list;" he was pouring cement for our new mailbox when I returned sun kissed and ready for a nap!
We went to dinner with my parents where I ate four hundred pounds of gnocchi, which is why it's only 8 pm and I'm ready for bed. I normally eat smaller portions these days because, let's face it, I'm running out of room, but not tonight! That floating in the pool was hard work :o)
I've been having pains again--every move the baby makes hurts these days, but even when the baby is still, I'm experiencing what I can only guess is more Braxton Hicks. Fine by me--get that uterus some practice and get that baby into my arms!!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
July 15th Post: Single Digits, Baby!
It may just be those closest to me who realize my complete incompetence with numbers, but now everyone reading this is aware: I'm numerically challenged. Even though I knew all day long that today is the 15th, it wasn't until I signed onto my blog and saw that the Baby Tracker read "9 days to go" that I actually realized it: NINE DAYS TO GO! SINGLE DIGITS! WHOA! And quite honestly, I thought last night was go time:
Zach had gone to bed, but I stayed downstairs to talk to my gal pal, San, on the phone. As we're chatting, I kept getting these sharp shooting pains in my lower abdomen and legs. Eventually, the pains--which were MUCH worse than the B-H contractions I had the other day--were radiating throughout my stomach. I could actually see everything move when the pain hit me, so of course, I'm thinking my uterus is contracting and the baby is moving down the birth canal!! I'm envisioning having to yell for Zach or send Bella up to wake him because I'm birthing our child on the living room couch! Poor San is completely oblivious on the other line and I didn't want to say anything because I wasn't sure! So, she and I hang up and I wait it out for a half an hour downstairs, not wanting to bother Zach if it wasn't the real deal. Well, it wasn't the real deal; the pain subsided about 45 minutes later and I was able to sleep through the night without giving birth--probably the most telling sign that I wasn't in labor!! Lucky Zach--got to sleep through the whole thing :o)
I met my friends Beth and Trish for lunch today; Trish was kind enough to share MORE of her parenting wisdom and books with me! She's given me so much throughout my pregnancy: maternity clothes, advice, books, and that's not even counting the lovely shower gifts! I think the girl gave me enough diapers for Baby J.'s first year on earth :o) So, special thanks to Trish. Now if I can just get her to babysit....
It may just be those closest to me who realize my complete incompetence with numbers, but now everyone reading this is aware: I'm numerically challenged. Even though I knew all day long that today is the 15th, it wasn't until I signed onto my blog and saw that the Baby Tracker read "9 days to go" that I actually realized it: NINE DAYS TO GO! SINGLE DIGITS! WHOA! And quite honestly, I thought last night was go time:
Zach had gone to bed, but I stayed downstairs to talk to my gal pal, San, on the phone. As we're chatting, I kept getting these sharp shooting pains in my lower abdomen and legs. Eventually, the pains--which were MUCH worse than the B-H contractions I had the other day--were radiating throughout my stomach. I could actually see everything move when the pain hit me, so of course, I'm thinking my uterus is contracting and the baby is moving down the birth canal!! I'm envisioning having to yell for Zach or send Bella up to wake him because I'm birthing our child on the living room couch! Poor San is completely oblivious on the other line and I didn't want to say anything because I wasn't sure! So, she and I hang up and I wait it out for a half an hour downstairs, not wanting to bother Zach if it wasn't the real deal. Well, it wasn't the real deal; the pain subsided about 45 minutes later and I was able to sleep through the night without giving birth--probably the most telling sign that I wasn't in labor!! Lucky Zach--got to sleep through the whole thing :o)
I met my friends Beth and Trish for lunch today; Trish was kind enough to share MORE of her parenting wisdom and books with me! She's given me so much throughout my pregnancy: maternity clothes, advice, books, and that's not even counting the lovely shower gifts! I think the girl gave me enough diapers for Baby J.'s first year on earth :o) So, special thanks to Trish. Now if I can just get her to babysit....
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
July 14th Post: Still Pregnant :o)
Another doctor appointment down and still prego! I guess I really expected to be further along than the appointment proved; when the doctor could only report that I'm 80% effaced and the other numbers had remained the same, I was visibly disappointed!! She said not to worry because I will be having this baby...sometime or another! I know I sounded like an uneducated whack job, but I had to ask her if she had any guess of when I'd go into labor. She just smiled politely and told me no. She, of course, said I was making "good progress" and she liked what my cervix was doing, but still no Baby J. to speak of. Soon enough I'm sure. A funny part of the appointment had to be when the nurse took my blood pressure and called me a "swollen little beast!!!" No joke--those were her exact words. She then told me my "cankles" would subside after I had the baby! Nothing like some kind words and compliments for the pregnant lady :o) That lady is just lucky I have a good sense of humor and my hormones weren't raging!!
I was exhausted after the appointment, so Zach and I put our errands on hold until tomorrow. We're trying to find a light for the kitchen because we've been without one for a few months and it's been on our "to-do-before-baby-gets-here list." We're going to Lowes tomorrow in hopes of finding said light and that will just about complete our list.
I would just like to give a warm shout-out to my roomies because after meeting up with them yesterday, I slept like, well, a baby!! I only woke up twice, once at 2:30 and then again around 4:45. I slept until about 7:30 and was COMFORTABLE! I'm not sure that the roomies had anything to do with that, but I'll give them credit anyway :o)
I'm meeting MORE friends for lunch tomorrow AND Friday--how fun! I should definitely enjoy these little outings while I can, no?!
Another doctor appointment down and still prego! I guess I really expected to be further along than the appointment proved; when the doctor could only report that I'm 80% effaced and the other numbers had remained the same, I was visibly disappointed!! She said not to worry because I will be having this baby...sometime or another! I know I sounded like an uneducated whack job, but I had to ask her if she had any guess of when I'd go into labor. She just smiled politely and told me no. She, of course, said I was making "good progress" and she liked what my cervix was doing, but still no Baby J. to speak of. Soon enough I'm sure. A funny part of the appointment had to be when the nurse took my blood pressure and called me a "swollen little beast!!!" No joke--those were her exact words. She then told me my "cankles" would subside after I had the baby! Nothing like some kind words and compliments for the pregnant lady :o) That lady is just lucky I have a good sense of humor and my hormones weren't raging!!
I was exhausted after the appointment, so Zach and I put our errands on hold until tomorrow. We're trying to find a light for the kitchen because we've been without one for a few months and it's been on our "to-do-before-baby-gets-here list." We're going to Lowes tomorrow in hopes of finding said light and that will just about complete our list.
I would just like to give a warm shout-out to my roomies because after meeting up with them yesterday, I slept like, well, a baby!! I only woke up twice, once at 2:30 and then again around 4:45. I slept until about 7:30 and was COMFORTABLE! I'm not sure that the roomies had anything to do with that, but I'll give them credit anyway :o)
I'm meeting MORE friends for lunch tomorrow AND Friday--how fun! I should definitely enjoy these little outings while I can, no?!
Monday, July 13, 2009
July 13th Post: I'm Joining a Nudist Colony!
After waking up at 7:30 and enjoying a bowl of Cocoa Krispies, I got right to work on my grad class midterm. There was a 3-hour window allotted for the test and once I began it, I had to finish it. I needed all but a half an hour of the time provided, which is a LONG test!! I did feel pretty good about my accomplishment, though! No guarantee on a 100% A, but I tried!
Zach was kind enough to help with the dogs today; he gave them a bath...in the tub I use on a regular basis :o) But he cleaned it nicely and I have soft, sweet smelling puppies now. Bella, however, is NOT a fan of bath time, so it's always fun to watch her and Zach in action!!
I met my roomies for some shopping and dinner at Water Works tonight. I got my brother his birthday gift and Zach some of the "fancy rags" he likes to use when he's washing his car, and then the roomies and I ate outside at La Cappella. It was such a good time seeing the gals. It's been a while since we all four got together to just hang out; they were pretty much work horses at my shower, so we barely got to talk. And we thought it was super weird that tonight would probably be the last time we'd see one another before Baby J. comes--exciting, yet very weird!!
No more Braxton Hicks today. I just felt tight and heavy, but I guess that's to be expected at this point! What's more is that any kind of clothing feels entirely too heavy and tight right now, hence my title that I'm joining a nudist colony. I think I'd like to boycott clothing until the baby comes, but somehow I don't think the rest of society would appreciate that!! It was cute, though, because Zach complimented me in my enormous tent dress and I just had to laugh; he's saying I look pretty and all I can think about it is the freedom around my belly from no waistband!! To each his own, I guess!
Tomorrow, Zach and I are meeting for lunch and then he's going to tutor my cousin--that should be interesting! After that, we have our weekly doctor appointment--I'm so excited for it! I'm praying that we've progressed even further and I'll get the good news that I'm 8 centimeters dilated :o) Hey, a girl can dream, right??!!
After waking up at 7:30 and enjoying a bowl of Cocoa Krispies, I got right to work on my grad class midterm. There was a 3-hour window allotted for the test and once I began it, I had to finish it. I needed all but a half an hour of the time provided, which is a LONG test!! I did feel pretty good about my accomplishment, though! No guarantee on a 100% A, but I tried!
Zach was kind enough to help with the dogs today; he gave them a bath...in the tub I use on a regular basis :o) But he cleaned it nicely and I have soft, sweet smelling puppies now. Bella, however, is NOT a fan of bath time, so it's always fun to watch her and Zach in action!!
I met my roomies for some shopping and dinner at Water Works tonight. I got my brother his birthday gift and Zach some of the "fancy rags" he likes to use when he's washing his car, and then the roomies and I ate outside at La Cappella. It was such a good time seeing the gals. It's been a while since we all four got together to just hang out; they were pretty much work horses at my shower, so we barely got to talk. And we thought it was super weird that tonight would probably be the last time we'd see one another before Baby J. comes--exciting, yet very weird!!
No more Braxton Hicks today. I just felt tight and heavy, but I guess that's to be expected at this point! What's more is that any kind of clothing feels entirely too heavy and tight right now, hence my title that I'm joining a nudist colony. I think I'd like to boycott clothing until the baby comes, but somehow I don't think the rest of society would appreciate that!! It was cute, though, because Zach complimented me in my enormous tent dress and I just had to laugh; he's saying I look pretty and all I can think about it is the freedom around my belly from no waistband!! To each his own, I guess!
Tomorrow, Zach and I are meeting for lunch and then he's going to tutor my cousin--that should be interesting! After that, we have our weekly doctor appointment--I'm so excited for it! I'm praying that we've progressed even further and I'll get the good news that I'm 8 centimeters dilated :o) Hey, a girl can dream, right??!!
Sunday, July 12, 2009
July 12th Post: A Visit from Braxton Hicks!
Despite another sleepless night, today ended up being very nice. My dad picked me up around 7:45 and we got our yummy pancake breakfast at the G& G as promised. Banana nut pancakes--sooo good! Afterward, though, my stomach started to feel a little strange and I just thought I was full (or I had to use the bathroom), but low and behold, I started to contract on a pretty regular basis. That's when I realized what was happening: Braxton Hicks fun. The contractions weren't necessarily what I'd call painful, just uncomfortable. They made sitting still feel a bit weird, so I've learned that I'd much rather walk around while I can. Braxton Hicks continued as we visited my Gram Barone and I got a little shopping done. I attempted to buy my wonderful husband a new pair of flip flops, but he said they didn't fit right when he tried them on. Oh, well--I tried! I picked up a fashionable nursing bra for myself, though--quite the shopping spree :o)
I'm trying to fill up this week with things to do; among them are massive amounts of grad school work: a midterm exam and a project; shopping and dinner with the college roomies tomorrow; doctor appointment and some quality time with the hubby on Tuesday; lunch and catching up with a few Valley girls on Wednesday. Hopefully, I'll fit some decent sleep in there and be pleasant for those who will encounter me this week!!
The Baby J. Arrival Poll has officially closed! We ended up with $55 and bets ranging from yesterday all the way until August 1. I'm personally pulling for the person whose bet has this baby in my arms as soon as possible!!
Despite another sleepless night, today ended up being very nice. My dad picked me up around 7:45 and we got our yummy pancake breakfast at the G& G as promised. Banana nut pancakes--sooo good! Afterward, though, my stomach started to feel a little strange and I just thought I was full (or I had to use the bathroom), but low and behold, I started to contract on a pretty regular basis. That's when I realized what was happening: Braxton Hicks fun. The contractions weren't necessarily what I'd call painful, just uncomfortable. They made sitting still feel a bit weird, so I've learned that I'd much rather walk around while I can. Braxton Hicks continued as we visited my Gram Barone and I got a little shopping done. I attempted to buy my wonderful husband a new pair of flip flops, but he said they didn't fit right when he tried them on. Oh, well--I tried! I picked up a fashionable nursing bra for myself, though--quite the shopping spree :o)
I'm trying to fill up this week with things to do; among them are massive amounts of grad school work: a midterm exam and a project; shopping and dinner with the college roomies tomorrow; doctor appointment and some quality time with the hubby on Tuesday; lunch and catching up with a few Valley girls on Wednesday. Hopefully, I'll fit some decent sleep in there and be pleasant for those who will encounter me this week!!
The Baby J. Arrival Poll has officially closed! We ended up with $55 and bets ranging from yesterday all the way until August 1. I'm personally pulling for the person whose bet has this baby in my arms as soon as possible!!
No Rest for the Weary
I have been awake since 1:30 this morning; it is now 5:45. This is, by far, the WORST night's sleep (or lack thereof) since...ever! I'm absolutely exhausted, but nothing I try works to lull me back to sleep. I've tried switching beds and rooms (from my room to the guest double bed to the day bed to the couch to the chair); I've tried some of the relaxation exercises we learned in class (deep breathing, visualization); I've tried busying myself in the hopes that it would make me sleepy (reading, putzing around online)--and nothing, NOTHING has worked!! For everyone who says this is practice and preparation for motherhood, I say I'll take a late night feeding and raise you a 4 am diaper change because that would still be MORE sleep than I'm getting now!! I'm going crazy!
But, I have had a lot of time to think; therefore, you are now forced to read my random thoughts:
Things I'll Miss About Pregnancy:
Feeling and seeing my baby move in my belly
Feeling as though my body is the most important thing on the planet
Justifying nightly foot massages
Justifying eating anything at any time
Having people tell me, "Aww, you look adorable" even though I've gained 30 pounds
Gaining said pounds and feeling good about it
Feeling as though I'm never alone even when there's no one else in the room with "us"
The excitement and anticipation of what's to come
Playing the occasional "prego card" and asking for stupid favors, ie: I'm sitting two feet from the kitchen, but I ask Zach to get me water :o)
The glow everyone says I have...although, I tend to think it's just sweat
Realizing this is another "first" the fam, Zach, and me will never have the chance to experience again
The unexplainable calm and contentment that's washed over me ever since we conceived
Dreaming about or visualizing what I'll be doing and where I'll be when I go into labor
Imagining what Baby J. will look like--and hoping he/she has certain qualities of mine or Zach's
Like any rational woman, I've no choice but to acknowledge the things I can do without, so...
Things I Look Forward to After Pregnancy
SLEEP, SLEEP, SLEEP and MORE SLEEP (albeit intermittent, I'll TAKE IT)
My shoe collection!! (here's hoping all my loves still fit after this!!)
The sweet release on my poor hips, knees, and feet
Wearing my engagement and wedding rings again!
Not visiting the bathroom after taking 10 steps
Losing the weight that makes it difficult to move and/or breathe some days
Being able to tie my shoes, paint my toenails, shave my legs, etc. without assistance
People will stop assuming that I'm helpless because I'm pregnant
Sleeping on my stomach!!
Having a waist again--hopefully!
And of course, meeting and holding and loving my little Baby J.
About an hour and a half until my dad comes to get me for breakfast. Might as well get a shower...or maybe I'll just close my eyes and see what happens. Here's hoping!!
But, I have had a lot of time to think; therefore, you are now forced to read my random thoughts:
Things I'll Miss About Pregnancy:
Feeling and seeing my baby move in my belly
Feeling as though my body is the most important thing on the planet
Justifying nightly foot massages
Justifying eating anything at any time
Having people tell me, "Aww, you look adorable" even though I've gained 30 pounds
Gaining said pounds and feeling good about it
Feeling as though I'm never alone even when there's no one else in the room with "us"
The excitement and anticipation of what's to come
Playing the occasional "prego card" and asking for stupid favors, ie: I'm sitting two feet from the kitchen, but I ask Zach to get me water :o)
The glow everyone says I have...although, I tend to think it's just sweat
Realizing this is another "first" the fam, Zach, and me will never have the chance to experience again
The unexplainable calm and contentment that's washed over me ever since we conceived
Dreaming about or visualizing what I'll be doing and where I'll be when I go into labor
Imagining what Baby J. will look like--and hoping he/she has certain qualities of mine or Zach's
Like any rational woman, I've no choice but to acknowledge the things I can do without, so...
Things I Look Forward to After Pregnancy
SLEEP, SLEEP, SLEEP and MORE SLEEP (albeit intermittent, I'll TAKE IT)
My shoe collection!! (here's hoping all my loves still fit after this!!)
The sweet release on my poor hips, knees, and feet
Wearing my engagement and wedding rings again!
Not visiting the bathroom after taking 10 steps
Losing the weight that makes it difficult to move and/or breathe some days
Being able to tie my shoes, paint my toenails, shave my legs, etc. without assistance
People will stop assuming that I'm helpless because I'm pregnant
Sleeping on my stomach!!
Having a waist again--hopefully!
And of course, meeting and holding and loving my little Baby J.
About an hour and a half until my dad comes to get me for breakfast. Might as well get a shower...or maybe I'll just close my eyes and see what happens. Here's hoping!!
Saturday, July 11, 2009
July 11 Post: Happy Birthday, Uncle Duane!
Another lousy night of sleep and a failed attempt at a nap, yet overall, today was A-okay. I spent much of the day working on grad school stuff, and before I knew it, it was time to go to Uncle Duane's birthday party. Good food, good company, and an undefeated cornhole championship team in the Jankowski family! Zach and I were unstoppable tonight! Even though my feet suffered (and are being rubbed as I type this!), it was worth it to beat everyone at the party :o)
We finalized the Baby J. Arrival Poll tonight. I think there's a little over $50 in there, so that's a decent chunk of change for the winner. The first bet, one of Zach's friends, is already the loser as he chose today at 2:30 pm for go time. One down, over 50 more to go--how fun!
My dad and I are meeting tomorrow morning for breakfast (another pancake craving--go figure!), and then we'll visit my Gram in Monroeville. I'm also hoping to stop at Babies R Us and Kohls to pick up a few last minute things--hope Tom Barone doesn't mind shopping for a nursing bra!!
Another lousy night of sleep and a failed attempt at a nap, yet overall, today was A-okay. I spent much of the day working on grad school stuff, and before I knew it, it was time to go to Uncle Duane's birthday party. Good food, good company, and an undefeated cornhole championship team in the Jankowski family! Zach and I were unstoppable tonight! Even though my feet suffered (and are being rubbed as I type this!), it was worth it to beat everyone at the party :o)
We finalized the Baby J. Arrival Poll tonight. I think there's a little over $50 in there, so that's a decent chunk of change for the winner. The first bet, one of Zach's friends, is already the loser as he chose today at 2:30 pm for go time. One down, over 50 more to go--how fun!
My dad and I are meeting tomorrow morning for breakfast (another pancake craving--go figure!), and then we'll visit my Gram in Monroeville. I'm also hoping to stop at Babies R Us and Kohls to pick up a few last minute things--hope Tom Barone doesn't mind shopping for a nursing bra!!
Friday, July 10, 2009
July 10th Post: 2 Weeks and 1 Pregnancy Dream!
Today is officially TWO weeks until our due date--very exciting!! The closer it gets, the more I think we're going to be late and carry until after the 24th. But I guess the baby knows best and she will come when she's good and ready. Speaking of the "she" pronoun...
I had a dream that I looked down at my belly and where my left rib is was the FACE of the baby. I could see little eyes and nostrils coming through my skin, so of course I start yelling because that is not normal! We go to the hospital and the only thing the nurse says is, "Aww, I can see his testicles!" At that point, rather than freak out about the face coming through my stomach, I start yelling at this nurse for ruining the surprise: "I waited for 9 months for this! My husband didn't want to know! You've ruined it!" And then I woke up. So what does this mean? We're having a boy?? Oh, the suspense is killing me!!
Other than the insane dream, today was a fun-filled day. Zach and I went to this run-down furniture store called Regis Furniture (in the middle of nowhere and his sign read, "Open Mom-Sat") because we've been pricing king beds, we relaxed on the deck together, we went to the Elks for Mexican night, and then we met some Jankowski relatives for a baseball game under the lights. Even though I didn't end up floating in someone's pool, I did manage to sneak an hour and a half nap in there--as well as some hardcore vacuuming--so all in all, Friday was a success :o)
Tomorrow is Uncle Duane's birthday party, so we're hoping to get a few more bets in the Baby J. Arrival Poll before we close it off on Sunday. So far, we're up to almost $45--not too shabby! I'm so hard up for a boy's name at this point that I may double the pot for the person who finds me "THE" baby boy name!! If we go with Zach's top 3, the kid will be either Rocco, Conrad, or Brady. Brady I can live with, I like, but he's been pushing this Conrad lately. What's a girl to do?!!!
Today is officially TWO weeks until our due date--very exciting!! The closer it gets, the more I think we're going to be late and carry until after the 24th. But I guess the baby knows best and she will come when she's good and ready. Speaking of the "she" pronoun...
I had a dream that I looked down at my belly and where my left rib is was the FACE of the baby. I could see little eyes and nostrils coming through my skin, so of course I start yelling because that is not normal! We go to the hospital and the only thing the nurse says is, "Aww, I can see his testicles!" At that point, rather than freak out about the face coming through my stomach, I start yelling at this nurse for ruining the surprise: "I waited for 9 months for this! My husband didn't want to know! You've ruined it!" And then I woke up. So what does this mean? We're having a boy?? Oh, the suspense is killing me!!
Other than the insane dream, today was a fun-filled day. Zach and I went to this run-down furniture store called Regis Furniture (in the middle of nowhere and his sign read, "Open Mom-Sat") because we've been pricing king beds, we relaxed on the deck together, we went to the Elks for Mexican night, and then we met some Jankowski relatives for a baseball game under the lights. Even though I didn't end up floating in someone's pool, I did manage to sneak an hour and a half nap in there--as well as some hardcore vacuuming--so all in all, Friday was a success :o)
Tomorrow is Uncle Duane's birthday party, so we're hoping to get a few more bets in the Baby J. Arrival Poll before we close it off on Sunday. So far, we're up to almost $45--not too shabby! I'm so hard up for a boy's name at this point that I may double the pot for the person who finds me "THE" baby boy name!! If we go with Zach's top 3, the kid will be either Rocco, Conrad, or Brady. Brady I can live with, I like, but he's been pushing this Conrad lately. What's a girl to do?!!!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
July 9th Post: Found a Friend!
Today was a bit warm, so I was hoping to find a friend with a pool and I was successful! My Aunt Elaine's neighbor was kind enough to invite me over to swim and the feeling of weightlessness was FABULOUS!! My hips didn't hurt, there was no strain on my knees--it was just wonderful! It was also nice to talk to my aunt and her neighbor about labor, child birth, and raising kids. Super afternoon.
Around dinner time, I found myself craving pancakes. I'm not sure where I got the idea--I hadn't seen a commercial for them, talked about them, nothing! But I knew I wanted them, so Zach agreed to put our kabobs on hold until tomorrow and we went to Kings where I had a yummy strawberry and banana short stack. After that, I felt confident that I could defeat my Tiger-Woods-wanna-be-husband at mini-golf, so I challenged him to a round. I was victorious!! For only the second time in a 7 year stint, I won! Talk about a great night!
Nonna and Nonno and my brother and his gal pal Natalie visited us today, too; spending time with loved ones is definitely a great way to pass the time. And as we all know, I'm trying to pass the time as quickly as possible!
Missed my nap and of course didn't sleep well last night, so I'm off to bed at 9:30. Tomorrow is supposed to be even hotter than today, so maybe I'll get another invite to swim--wouldn't that be nice!
Today was a bit warm, so I was hoping to find a friend with a pool and I was successful! My Aunt Elaine's neighbor was kind enough to invite me over to swim and the feeling of weightlessness was FABULOUS!! My hips didn't hurt, there was no strain on my knees--it was just wonderful! It was also nice to talk to my aunt and her neighbor about labor, child birth, and raising kids. Super afternoon.
Around dinner time, I found myself craving pancakes. I'm not sure where I got the idea--I hadn't seen a commercial for them, talked about them, nothing! But I knew I wanted them, so Zach agreed to put our kabobs on hold until tomorrow and we went to Kings where I had a yummy strawberry and banana short stack. After that, I felt confident that I could defeat my Tiger-Woods-wanna-be-husband at mini-golf, so I challenged him to a round. I was victorious!! For only the second time in a 7 year stint, I won! Talk about a great night!
Nonna and Nonno and my brother and his gal pal Natalie visited us today, too; spending time with loved ones is definitely a great way to pass the time. And as we all know, I'm trying to pass the time as quickly as possible!
Missed my nap and of course didn't sleep well last night, so I'm off to bed at 9:30. Tomorrow is supposed to be even hotter than today, so maybe I'll get another invite to swim--wouldn't that be nice!
July 8th Post: Well, Pooh....
...I did it again! I missed today's posting because I fell asleep before I had the chance to type it out. Nothing much really happened, though, so I promise you didn't miss much!
I felt the need to thank Zach for being wonderful, so I bought him a card to tell him he's been very helpful. I've made it pretty easy in that I wasn't sick or even too demanding (not counting the nightly foot rubs I ask for!), but still: being an expectant father has to be stressful, too, so I appreciate all of his help and support.
I met my friend Beth for lunch and then Doug and Jen came to visit. Both Beth and Jen had pictures from my showers (the VHS and family one), so it was fun to look through them. Except for some of Jen's, I was giving the guests a great view of my crotch. That is why dresses are not my thing! Jen was also super generous and gave me a book to read during my waiting game, AND she brought a toy for Baby J. How nice! Jen's official due date is now Feb. 9, 2010! Very exciting. I did miss my nap, though, so that could be the reason why I fell asleep so suddenly last night :o)
And that, my friends, was my day. I'd like to find a friend with a pool today because it's not even 9 am and I'm already sweating! Here's hoping I'm successful!!
...I did it again! I missed today's posting because I fell asleep before I had the chance to type it out. Nothing much really happened, though, so I promise you didn't miss much!
I felt the need to thank Zach for being wonderful, so I bought him a card to tell him he's been very helpful. I've made it pretty easy in that I wasn't sick or even too demanding (not counting the nightly foot rubs I ask for!), but still: being an expectant father has to be stressful, too, so I appreciate all of his help and support.
I met my friend Beth for lunch and then Doug and Jen came to visit. Both Beth and Jen had pictures from my showers (the VHS and family one), so it was fun to look through them. Except for some of Jen's, I was giving the guests a great view of my crotch. That is why dresses are not my thing! Jen was also super generous and gave me a book to read during my waiting game, AND she brought a toy for Baby J. How nice! Jen's official due date is now Feb. 9, 2010! Very exciting. I did miss my nap, though, so that could be the reason why I fell asleep so suddenly last night :o)
And that, my friends, was my day. I'd like to find a friend with a pool today because it's not even 9 am and I'm already sweating! Here's hoping I'm successful!!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
July 7th Post: R.I.P. MJ
So, I'm a little bitter today. I don't know if it's the lack of sleep, the fact that my own weight is going to buckle my knees, or if it's all these supposed Michael fans crawling out of the woodwork oh-so conveniently!! I'm not saying people shouldn't mourn or be sad or even interested, but seriously--where have they been from day one?! I've been an M.J. fan since I was able to walk; I used to fall asleep to his records in my Smurf sleeping bag in my dining room, refusing to go to my bed until I heard the entire Thriller album. I'd wake up in the middle of the night with his music still in my head, and I even named my baby brother after the man! I never once doubted his innocence and always empathized with his plight: crazy dad, zero childhood, and a truly sad existence in the limelight. He was talented beyond belief, tried to make a normal life for himself, but could never find peace. And now he's gone and has finally found the peace for which he had been forever searching, and that is exactly why I am so irritated by all these people who have just now decided they care. The memorial was moving, I'm sure; the performances were memorable, okay; but where in the world was everyone before his death?? I guess I'm of the mind set that if you couldn't admit you were a fan when he was here, if you couldn't appreciate his contribution--albeit odd at times--to the world, why care so much now? I am utterly sick of hearing about it and watching it because all I see are people who, just a few months ago, slammed him in the media now bawling their eyes out. Puh-lease. And perhaps those are my hormones, but more likely, it's my "zero tolerance" policy for hypocrisy.
I am now stepping down from my soapbox. I clearly need a nap :o)
So, I'm a little bitter today. I don't know if it's the lack of sleep, the fact that my own weight is going to buckle my knees, or if it's all these supposed Michael fans crawling out of the woodwork oh-so conveniently!! I'm not saying people shouldn't mourn or be sad or even interested, but seriously--where have they been from day one?! I've been an M.J. fan since I was able to walk; I used to fall asleep to his records in my Smurf sleeping bag in my dining room, refusing to go to my bed until I heard the entire Thriller album. I'd wake up in the middle of the night with his music still in my head, and I even named my baby brother after the man! I never once doubted his innocence and always empathized with his plight: crazy dad, zero childhood, and a truly sad existence in the limelight. He was talented beyond belief, tried to make a normal life for himself, but could never find peace. And now he's gone and has finally found the peace for which he had been forever searching, and that is exactly why I am so irritated by all these people who have just now decided they care. The memorial was moving, I'm sure; the performances were memorable, okay; but where in the world was everyone before his death?? I guess I'm of the mind set that if you couldn't admit you were a fan when he was here, if you couldn't appreciate his contribution--albeit odd at times--to the world, why care so much now? I am utterly sick of hearing about it and watching it because all I see are people who, just a few months ago, slammed him in the media now bawling their eyes out. Puh-lease. And perhaps those are my hormones, but more likely, it's my "zero tolerance" policy for hypocrisy.
I am now stepping down from my soapbox. I clearly need a nap :o)
July 6th Post: Such a Good Baby!
My Internet connection (and patience!) were intermittent yesterday, so I have to post yesterday's message today. I'm disappointed that I couldn't keep up the "daily" entries, but something tells me I'll get over it :o)
Our doctor appointment was indeed a success! I love this kid already; he/she seems very organized and prepared to make his/her arrival into this world! I'm now TWO centimeters dilated, 70% effaced, and the baby has dropped further into my pelvis. I didn't get a number or a station for the dropping, but I can feel a difference when I walk (and run to the bathroom every four minutes), and the doctor felt around and verified that Baby J.'s head is lower. So that's all VERY exciting news! Way to prepare, baby! However, all of these fun numbers could mean nothing at all--some women dilate to 3 centimeters and are almost completely effaced and don't go into labor for weeks! The actual due date is about 17 days off, so there's a decent chance we'll make it that far--or beyond. At least that's what my doctor told my mom who was trying to CHEAT in the Baby J. Arrival poll!! The dr. laughed when we told her why my mom was REALLY asking about the possibility of an early baby :o) But the poll is going well, up to about $35. Shoulda asked my doctor if she wanted in on the action!! Our next appointment is Tuesday, and I'm expecting more good things from this little one!
The rash on my belly is slowly getting better, but the doc said because it still bothers me at night AND because it's still visible, I should keep taking the Benadryl. She said it'll also help me sleep which is just as important as anything right now--gotta keep that strength up for 2 am feedings so they say! OOH--and I almost forgot: speaking of feedings, my body is certainly ready for them. I wake up wet from leakage quite a bit now. Or after a shower, I'll notice some leakage. Guess it's good to know my body is gearing up for nourishing a child, but seriously--eeew.
I'm getting VERY antsy these days. Last night around 10 pm, I felt the need to clean out all of our kitchen drawers. Zach came home from grad class and just stared at me. He asked what the heck I was doing and when I told him I felt it was very necessary for these drawers to be cleaned, he just laughed and said I was ridiculous. Later that night, though, he read something about "nesting" in one of his books and was able to identify it thanks to my drawer cleaning!! Today, I have a to-do list as long as my arm in hopes of staying busy, busy, busy! Reading a novel and doing my grad work don't appeal to me because, in my mind, that's doing nothing to prepare for the baby. I'm not sure how cleaning out a silverware drawer benefits an infant either, but whatever...
I have a hair appointment today--maybe I'll switch things up a bit with a new cut so I will feel that I've done something different and then I won't be so anxious? Probably not, but it's worth a shot!!
My Internet connection (and patience!) were intermittent yesterday, so I have to post yesterday's message today. I'm disappointed that I couldn't keep up the "daily" entries, but something tells me I'll get over it :o)
Our doctor appointment was indeed a success! I love this kid already; he/she seems very organized and prepared to make his/her arrival into this world! I'm now TWO centimeters dilated, 70% effaced, and the baby has dropped further into my pelvis. I didn't get a number or a station for the dropping, but I can feel a difference when I walk (and run to the bathroom every four minutes), and the doctor felt around and verified that Baby J.'s head is lower. So that's all VERY exciting news! Way to prepare, baby! However, all of these fun numbers could mean nothing at all--some women dilate to 3 centimeters and are almost completely effaced and don't go into labor for weeks! The actual due date is about 17 days off, so there's a decent chance we'll make it that far--or beyond. At least that's what my doctor told my mom who was trying to CHEAT in the Baby J. Arrival poll!! The dr. laughed when we told her why my mom was REALLY asking about the possibility of an early baby :o) But the poll is going well, up to about $35. Shoulda asked my doctor if she wanted in on the action!! Our next appointment is Tuesday, and I'm expecting more good things from this little one!
The rash on my belly is slowly getting better, but the doc said because it still bothers me at night AND because it's still visible, I should keep taking the Benadryl. She said it'll also help me sleep which is just as important as anything right now--gotta keep that strength up for 2 am feedings so they say! OOH--and I almost forgot: speaking of feedings, my body is certainly ready for them. I wake up wet from leakage quite a bit now. Or after a shower, I'll notice some leakage. Guess it's good to know my body is gearing up for nourishing a child, but seriously--eeew.
I'm getting VERY antsy these days. Last night around 10 pm, I felt the need to clean out all of our kitchen drawers. Zach came home from grad class and just stared at me. He asked what the heck I was doing and when I told him I felt it was very necessary for these drawers to be cleaned, he just laughed and said I was ridiculous. Later that night, though, he read something about "nesting" in one of his books and was able to identify it thanks to my drawer cleaning!! Today, I have a to-do list as long as my arm in hopes of staying busy, busy, busy! Reading a novel and doing my grad work don't appeal to me because, in my mind, that's doing nothing to prepare for the baby. I'm not sure how cleaning out a silverware drawer benefits an infant either, but whatever...
I have a hair appointment today--maybe I'll switch things up a bit with a new cut so I will feel that I've done something different and then I won't be so anxious? Probably not, but it's worth a shot!!
Sunday, July 5, 2009
July 5th Post: Hoping for Some More Dilation!
Good evening! As you can see, I've had some spare time to figure out the whole layout process of these blogs! I really like this one...although I'm afraid it looks familiar...Trish, did I steal yours?!
Anyhoo--we're up to $30 in the Baby J. poll as of today. I'm surprised to see how many people think I'm going to pop early--I hope they're right! I also hope that at tomorrow's doctor appointment, I find out that I'm even further along in terms of dilation and effacement and all that technical terminology that just means I'll get to meet Baby J. SOOOON! Until then, I'll just have to keep myself busy with my many to-do lists. I should be grateful, though; if I weren't prego right now, I'd be starting summer school with my wonderful husband tomorrow! We teach together every summer, but seeing as how I'd likely go into labor in front of a classroom full of under achievers, we thought it best I sit this summer out. Zach will take his phone...just in case!!
And some good news for the Jankowski clan: we revisited our "family budget," and it turns out we've saved enough for me to take off until after Christmas if we so choose. Always nice to have options :o)
Here's hoping for a productive doctor appointment tomorrow!!!!!!
Good evening! As you can see, I've had some spare time to figure out the whole layout process of these blogs! I really like this one...although I'm afraid it looks familiar...Trish, did I steal yours?!
Anyhoo--we're up to $30 in the Baby J. poll as of today. I'm surprised to see how many people think I'm going to pop early--I hope they're right! I also hope that at tomorrow's doctor appointment, I find out that I'm even further along in terms of dilation and effacement and all that technical terminology that just means I'll get to meet Baby J. SOOOON! Until then, I'll just have to keep myself busy with my many to-do lists. I should be grateful, though; if I weren't prego right now, I'd be starting summer school with my wonderful husband tomorrow! We teach together every summer, but seeing as how I'd likely go into labor in front of a classroom full of under achievers, we thought it best I sit this summer out. Zach will take his phone...just in case!!
And some good news for the Jankowski clan: we revisited our "family budget," and it turns out we've saved enough for me to take off until after Christmas if we so choose. Always nice to have options :o)
Here's hoping for a productive doctor appointment tomorrow!!!!!!
Saturday, July 4, 2009
July 4th Post: Happy 4th of July!
The only reason I'm awake and posting right now is because I made it a goal of mine: one post per day until Baby J. I'm exhausted and have little (if anything!) to report. So, we'll make this short and sweet:
With the help of some family members, we've finally figured out the car seat! That was a project and a half! But the bad boy is in there and ready to go, as are our bags and the cord blood donation kit. Hopefully, Zach and I will just be able to grab our bags and go!
Our Baby J. Arrival Poll has spawned interest from a lot of people! We got 20 guesses and 20 bucks just today--the first official day of guesses! We plan to see more family and friends through this week and next weekend, so let's make some money, people!!
Last but not least: a shout-out to Trish for helping me with the Blog Poll--thanks for the site and the recommendation! Let's see who reads and votes: Baby J.: little gal or guy??!!
That's all from these parts! Happy Fourth of July!!
The only reason I'm awake and posting right now is because I made it a goal of mine: one post per day until Baby J. I'm exhausted and have little (if anything!) to report. So, we'll make this short and sweet:
With the help of some family members, we've finally figured out the car seat! That was a project and a half! But the bad boy is in there and ready to go, as are our bags and the cord blood donation kit. Hopefully, Zach and I will just be able to grab our bags and go!
Our Baby J. Arrival Poll has spawned interest from a lot of people! We got 20 guesses and 20 bucks just today--the first official day of guesses! We plan to see more family and friends through this week and next weekend, so let's make some money, people!!
Last but not least: a shout-out to Trish for helping me with the Blog Poll--thanks for the site and the recommendation! Let's see who reads and votes: Baby J.: little gal or guy??!!
That's all from these parts! Happy Fourth of July!!
Friday, July 3, 2009
July 3rd Post: Some Cramps, a Nap, and Some Friendly Wagers
I woke up in the middle of the night with a sensation I haven't felt in about 9 months: menstrual cramps. At first I thought I had to, you know, use the bathroom, but nope. Then I started to get really excited thinking that the contractions were starting and we'd meet our son/daughter in the very near future. Zach was awakened by my incessant moving, so we chatted it up at 4 am about the cramps, a dream he had, and I then fell back asleep and that was that. The cramps have not returned which I guess means no baby any time soon. Kind of a bummer.
Zach put together the last of our baby gear today: the beautiful Pack-n-Play Gran and Pap Scalzott bought us! I love this thing! It matches our swing, so it's a lovely little set. Apparently watching Zach labor over the Pack-n-Play exhausted me because I took a fantastic nap. After what was a decent night's sleep, the nap gave me a lot of energy. I feel rested so I just may go clean something else--I'm thinking that our refrigerator could use a once over.
Moving on to the friendly wager: anyone who is interested can throw in a dollar, place a bet as to Baby J.'s birth date and time (closest without going over, so says Bob Barker), and the winner gets all the cash. So far, we have about 5 bets and we've invited between 25 - 30 people to play, so it could be a decent chunk of change. Hope this friendly wager doesn't turn our future child into a degenerate gambler :o)
Off to "revisit the family budget" because Zach says it's time to do so. Happy early 4th of July!
I woke up in the middle of the night with a sensation I haven't felt in about 9 months: menstrual cramps. At first I thought I had to, you know, use the bathroom, but nope. Then I started to get really excited thinking that the contractions were starting and we'd meet our son/daughter in the very near future. Zach was awakened by my incessant moving, so we chatted it up at 4 am about the cramps, a dream he had, and I then fell back asleep and that was that. The cramps have not returned which I guess means no baby any time soon. Kind of a bummer.
Zach put together the last of our baby gear today: the beautiful Pack-n-Play Gran and Pap Scalzott bought us! I love this thing! It matches our swing, so it's a lovely little set. Apparently watching Zach labor over the Pack-n-Play exhausted me because I took a fantastic nap. After what was a decent night's sleep, the nap gave me a lot of energy. I feel rested so I just may go clean something else--I'm thinking that our refrigerator could use a once over.
Moving on to the friendly wager: anyone who is interested can throw in a dollar, place a bet as to Baby J.'s birth date and time (closest without going over, so says Bob Barker), and the winner gets all the cash. So far, we have about 5 bets and we've invited between 25 - 30 people to play, so it could be a decent chunk of change. Hope this friendly wager doesn't turn our future child into a degenerate gambler :o)
Off to "revisit the family budget" because Zach says it's time to do so. Happy early 4th of July!
Thursday, July 2, 2009
July 2nd Post: Random Thoughts
I'll start with good news: I slept one hour more last night than I have in quite some time! That's a total of about 3 consecutive hours of shut-eye. At this point, I'm looking forward to the 2 am feedings; at least when I do get to sleep, I'll be comfortable :o)
At the doctor's recommendation, I've begun to consider an epidural. My doc said she's worried about the rash flaring up during labor and adding to the mix, as well as the fact that I'm exhausted, and she told me to think about the epi. I guess somewhere along the line, I thought if I opted out of the pain, I was "less of a woman." I know that's insane; the modern miracles of medicine have made it so that we can ALMOST enjoy child birth, and I'm against it! But with my doctor (as well as our family doctor whom my mom consulted), I'm throwing some different ideas around. We shall see...
Also, Zach wants to put together a friendly poll to guess what day and time Baby J. will be born. He's suggested we all throw in a buck and the winner keeps the spoils. Maybe more news on that in tomorrow's post!
I'll start with good news: I slept one hour more last night than I have in quite some time! That's a total of about 3 consecutive hours of shut-eye. At this point, I'm looking forward to the 2 am feedings; at least when I do get to sleep, I'll be comfortable :o)
At the doctor's recommendation, I've begun to consider an epidural. My doc said she's worried about the rash flaring up during labor and adding to the mix, as well as the fact that I'm exhausted, and she told me to think about the epi. I guess somewhere along the line, I thought if I opted out of the pain, I was "less of a woman." I know that's insane; the modern miracles of medicine have made it so that we can ALMOST enjoy child birth, and I'm against it! But with my doctor (as well as our family doctor whom my mom consulted), I'm throwing some different ideas around. We shall see...
Also, Zach wants to put together a friendly poll to guess what day and time Baby J. will be born. He's suggested we all throw in a buck and the winner keeps the spoils. Maybe more news on that in tomorrow's post!
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
And So It Begins...
I've decided that in honor of the month of July (AKA: Baby J.'s due-date-month), I'm going to attempt to post a short blog each day. I can't promise that each day will be exciting, but I can guarantee today will at least spark your interest...as it did mine!!
July 1st Post: Surprise!
I've developed a fabulous rash on my belly, so I went to see the doctor today. I went in thinking I'd get some ointment, but came out with a lot of information I was not expecting. First of all, I had an internal exam and a test done--I thought those things were happening at my next appointment so I was not...prepared. Anyhoo--the test was simple; the information to follow was...still can't find the right word for it...surprising??? Turns out the baby has dropped to -1 centimeters, which means he/she is positioned for birth--holy crap. Once the baby has dropped to positive numbers, he/she is so far into the pelvis that there's no turning back--a good sign that he/she will not be breech. Additional surprising information includes the fact that I'm 1 centimeter dilated and 50% effaced at this point. The cervix is getting ready. Yet again--holy crap.
I'm excited and nervous and shocked and a million other emotions right now. Quite frankly, it's exhausting. I'm going to take some Benadryl in the hopes that I'll stop itching, be able to sleep for more than an hour at a time, and wake up feeling...calmer! Oh, and the rash? It's common in pregnancy, especially during the 3rd trimester; its hugely confusing medical name is abbreviated with PUPPS, and the only cure is giving birth. Guess I'm on my way!
July 1st Post: Surprise!
I've developed a fabulous rash on my belly, so I went to see the doctor today. I went in thinking I'd get some ointment, but came out with a lot of information I was not expecting. First of all, I had an internal exam and a test done--I thought those things were happening at my next appointment so I was not...prepared. Anyhoo--the test was simple; the information to follow was...still can't find the right word for it...surprising??? Turns out the baby has dropped to -1 centimeters, which means he/she is positioned for birth--holy crap. Once the baby has dropped to positive numbers, he/she is so far into the pelvis that there's no turning back--a good sign that he/she will not be breech. Additional surprising information includes the fact that I'm 1 centimeter dilated and 50% effaced at this point. The cervix is getting ready. Yet again--holy crap.
I'm excited and nervous and shocked and a million other emotions right now. Quite frankly, it's exhausting. I'm going to take some Benadryl in the hopes that I'll stop itching, be able to sleep for more than an hour at a time, and wake up feeling...calmer! Oh, and the rash? It's common in pregnancy, especially during the 3rd trimester; its hugely confusing medical name is abbreviated with PUPPS, and the only cure is giving birth. Guess I'm on my way!
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