Welcome Luca Salvatore!

I am so happy to announce that Luca Salvatore came into our lives on 10/6/10 at 1:43 pm.

On the 5th I was having period like cramps all day and just feeling crummy. At night I forced myself to have dinner but all night I was up feeling the need to go to the bathroom. I felt so sick. Just like a stomach bug. Well then around 2 am I started to have contractions. I wasn't sure at first and then they got regular. 20 min apart. I went to my husband and said I think I am in labor. He said are you kidding? I was like no I think I am. I wrote down the times 20 min apart then 10 then 5, then back to 10, then 7, then 5. at around 6am I called the doctor. We waited for the doctor to call back and the covering doctor said to come in and lets have a look. so 6:15 we are on 93 in traffic on out way to the hospital. They were bearable but painful and still 5 min apart and sometimes 3 min.

When we got there, I was only 1 cm dilated, and 90% effaced. The nurse said well I might not keep you. Are you kidding? She hooked me up to the machine and the baby's heart rate was dipping when I had a contraction. She talked to my doctor and when she came back in the room she said well your staying and your doctor wants you on pitocin and ordered an epidural. I said well I don't think I was an epidural. She said are you kidding? why? Well after a few more contractions I said "I'll take that epidoral now". all along I am telling my husband that I think I cant do this again. I think one baby is enough.
Once I got it Oh my god! Amazing! weird because you feel nothing and cant move your legs. I told my husband oh I can have 10 kids. this is great! I guess my contractions came very very close but I didn't feel a thing!
I got the pitocin at around 11am, At about 1 I said I think my water broke. It was like a little pop. The nurse check me and she was like Yep and you are fully dilated. we need to call the doctor in.
OMG! it was so surreal. this was it. all this time I was going to meet my baby.
Doctor came in at about 1:15. I started pushing, 3 contractions, 3 pushes each and he was out!!
the doctor said its a boy. I said really? I thought for sure it was a girl. but my god I couldn't stop crying and they gave him to me right away. It was the most amazing thing in the world. To finally hold your baby. It was just overwhelming.

He was 7 lbs 11 oz and 21 inches long. He is such a great baby. I cant tell you how in love I am. I wonder what we did without him. For all we went through to get here, I finally have my miracle in my arms.

Luca means the bringer of light, and that's what he did. I knew I always saw the light at the end of tunnel that we went through and now I have him in my arms.
He brought us the light into our lives, hearts, and souls.

Week 39- We are almost there!

What is Baby S up to?

Baby's crown-to-rump length at this time is approximately 14.4 inches and the total length is approximately 21.5 inches. The average baby weighs a little more than 7 pounds now and is preparing for birth. You are probably as big as you are going to get and may be uncomfortable now. Most women gain between 25 and 35 pounds during their pregnancy. Your uterus is about 7-8 inches above your bellybutton now.

Although your baby continues to grow and develop inside of your uterus, there is not much room for him to move about. All of your baby's organ systems are now complete and the lungs were the last to fully mature.

If you are uncomfortable with your pregnancy at this time, you are not alone. Most women are ready to deliver their babies. It would be very unusual for you to not be uncomfortable at this time. Your uterus has grown a lot and now fills your entire pelvis and abdomen. Try not to ask your doctor to induce you, unless it is medically necessary. Your cervix is ripening in preparation for delivery and your bladder is under a lot of pressure. You may feel nervous about the upcoming labor. You will know when you are in labor because contractions will get worse when you move around and they will also get stronger and more frequent. Other signs of labor are the breaking of your water or a bloody show as the mucus that plugged your cervix becomes dislodged.

Most of the lanugo on your baby should be gone by now. Your baby still may have some on his shoulders and in the creases of his body. Your baby's toenails have reached the end of his toes. The umbilical cord is about a half inch thick and may be wrapped around him. The umbilical cord still supplies the baby with nutrients that he needs. After delivery, your baby's umbilical cord will be clamped and cut. After it is cut, he will be an independent human being and must perform all of his body functions on his own. Your baby will get antibodies from your body that give his immune system a boost.

I can't believe how close I am to being a mommy. I have dreamed about this for as long as I can remember. I just can't wait to hold my sweet baby in my arms and finally meet him/her.
Almost 13 years ago I became an aunt. A title and role that I have always cherished and adored. I have felt so blessed to be the aunt of the most amazing 6 nieces and 2 nephews. I cant believe that in about a week, I will have the role I have wished for, prayed for and hope for. In 7 days I will be a MOTHER!

Week 38- We are so close!

What is Baby S up to?

Your baby has really plumped up. She weighs about 6.8 pounds and she's over 19 1/2 inches long. She has a firm grasp, which you'll soon be able to test when you hold her hand for the first time! Her organs have matured and are ready for life outside the womb.

Wondering what color your baby's eyes will be? You may not be able to tell right away. If she's born with brown eyes, they'll likely stay brown. If she's born with steel gray or dark blue eyes, they may stay gray or blue or turn green, hazel, or brown by the time she's 9 months old. That's because a child's irises (the colored part of the eye) may gain more pigment in the months after she's born, but they usually won't get "lighter" or more blue. (Green, hazel, and brown eyes have more pigment than gray or blue eyes.)

This weekend nesting was in full swing! I washed all the baby's clothes. I used Dreft. I love the smell of it. It smells what baby clothes should smell like. My husband put together the changing table, bouncy seat, swing, pack in play, car seat is installed in the car, bags are packed and bassinet is all put together. We are all set. We just have to wait for Baby S to arrive!

We are still waiting on the other furniture to come. The crib, bureau and chest. They said it will come in 10-12 weeks. This is week 11, so I am hoping it comes within the week.

I cant tell you how excited I am. I cant wait to have this sweet baby in my arms. We just have 2 more weeks!

Week 37

Whats Baby S up to?

At week 37, your pregnancy is considered full term, meaning baby is likely to thrive after birth. Baby spends these last weeks in preparation for the outside world… meaning careful refinement of the blink, suck, inhale and exhale. Meconium, which you’ll probably find in the first diaper, is accumulating in the intestines. If (okay, as) you worry about giving birth, consider what it’s like for the little one. During the journey out of your womb, baby will produce more stress hormones than any other time in life.

Last week we had an appointment with the Fetal-Maternal Specialist. My doctor just wanted a second opinion. The head is still larger than the belly. But the belly is measuring where it should so the doctor agrees with my doctor and Baby S just has a big head :) I was so relieved with that news. I have been waiting for the other shoe to drop and I was scared that it would. But all looks perfect. Baby S last week was 6 pounds 13 oz. So if I go to term we are looking at an 8 pound baby.

I am pretty much all ready for the baby to come. Well I have everything bought. We still haven't put the nursery together yet. My husband has been busy painting and Friday we are having the rugs cleaned. Saturday I will be putting everything together and washing all the clothes.

I cant believe I will be mommy soon.
3 more weeks! I cant wait to have Baby S in my arms!

Interesting Fact:

I was reading my What to Expect When You Are Expecting and they said, "according to researchers, who found that 3rd trimester fetuses show crying behaviors -quivering chin , open mouth, deep inhalations and exhalations, and startle responses -when a loud noise and vibrations were sounded near the moms belly. Its known that crying reflex is well developed even in premature infants..."

I also found this video. I found this very interesting and always wondered this. If a baby cries when it first comes into life, why wouldn't it cry in the womb. I cant wait to hold my sweet baby and try to sooth every cry he/she makes.

http://dsc.discovery.com/news/media/fetalcryingvideo.html

Week 36

What is Baby S up to?
Your baby is still packing on the pounds, at the rate of about an ounce a day. She now weighs almost 6 pounds and is more than 18 1/2 inches long. She's shedding most of the downy covering of hair that covered her body as well as the vernix caseosa, the waxy substance that covered and protected her skin during her nine-month amniotic bath. Your baby swallows both of these substances, along with other secretions, resulting in a blackish mixture, called meconium, will form the contents of her first bowel movement.

At the end of this week, your baby will be considered full-term. (Full-term is 37 to 42 weeks; babies born before 37 weeks are pre-term and those born after 42 are post-term.) Most likely she's in a head-down position. But if she isn't, your practitioner may suggest scheduling an "external cephalic version," which is a fancy way of saying she'll try to coax your baby into a head-down position by manipulating her from the outside of your belly.

Not much new to report. We are just getting ready for little one to arrive. I can't wait! We still have alot to do. The baby's furniture still hasn't arrived yet. Yikes!
I cant believe we have 28 more days!

4 weeks left until Baby S arrives!

Week 35- We bought a family car!

What is Baby S up to this week?
Your baby doesn't have much room to maneuver now that he's over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds. Because it's so snug in your womb, he isn't likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of times he kicks should remain about the same. His kidneys are fully developed now, and his liver can process some waste products. Most of his basic physical development is now complete,he'll spend the next few weeks putting on weight.
Your uterus,which was entirely tucked away inside your pelvis when you conceived now reaches up under your rib cage. If you could peek inside your womb, you'd see that there's more baby than amniotic fluid in there now. Your ballooning uterus is crowding your other internal organs, too, which is why you probably have to urinate more often and may be dealing with heartburn and other gastrointestinal distress. If you're not grappling with these annoyances, you're one of the lucky few.

Well, we bought a family car. I am so ready for the baby come now. I sold my 2 door Toyota Solara and we bought a 2011 Toyota Camry. I cant wait to put the car seat in it.

Last weekend I had major nesting. I couldn't get my house clean enough. I did all the woodwork in the house. I just kept thinking that a new baby is going to be here. Every week we have something to do. Finish the painting in the house, get carpets cleaned, etc. We are very busy preparing.

I look at the baby stuff we have and cant believe its for MY baby. The stroller, car seat, baby necessities are in my living room. I never imagined that I would ever have baby stuff in my house. With all we went through I never thought it was possible.

This is real now. I will be a mommy.

32 more days to go!

Week 34- 42 more days!

Whats Baby S up to?
Your baby now weighs about 5 pounds (like your average cantaloupe) and is almost 18 inches long. Her fat layers, which will help regulate her body temperature once she's born, are filling her out, making her rounder. Her skin is also smoother than ever. Her central nervous system is maturing and her lungs are continuing to mature as well. If you've been nervous about preterm labor, you'll be happy to know that babies born between 34 and 37 weeks who have no other health problems generally do fine. They may need a short stay in the neonatal nursery and may have a few short-term health issues, but in the long run, they usually do as well as full-term babies.

We had a growth ultrasound last week. Baby is about 5 lbs and is in the 48 percentile. They did notice that the baby's belly was a little small. They will have to watch it and I will have another ultrasound next week and see if it grew. If it doesn't I will have to see a fetal maternal specialist. They will then make sure the kidneys, etc are working OK. I am praying that it was just the way the baby was laying and the tech just didn't get a good look. I am crossing my fingers. I know in my heart everything will be fine. I also had a non stress test because I am 35. I will be having one every 2 weeks also until I deliver. This is to make sure the baby can handle going down the birth canal. They just hooked me up to a monitor and monitored the baby's heartbeat. Here are a few photos of our little one. I cant wait to hold the baby and kiss its sweet face.

Just 6 more weeks to go!

Week 33- 8 Months pregnant!

What's Baby S up to?
Baby’s senses are continuing to improve, when light peeks in through your (extremely) stretched belly, those tiny eyelids and irises blink and dilate. And, baby can now recognize and react to simple songs… time to start practicing your lullabies! Growth (at least inside your womb) is starting to slow, and you may notice baby descend into your pelvis at the end of this month.
This week your baby weighs a little over 4 pounds (heft a pineapple) and has passed the 17-inch mark. He's rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look and his skeleton is hardening. The bones in his skull aren't fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for him to fit through the birth canal. (The pressure on the head during birth is so intense that many babies are born with a cone head-like appearance.) These bones don't entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as his brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.

We are still working on the nursery. I can feel my nesting coming into play. I just want to clean and get things all done for little ones arrival. My husband painted the nursery last night. I love the color. We used Benjamin Moore's, garland green. I will post pictures when it is completed.

Thursday I have an OB appointment and I cant wait! I am having an ultrasound to see how big the baby is. I am also have a non stress test. I just cant wait to see my sweet little one. I have a feeling he/she is a good size.

Here is a picture of my 33 week bump!


7 more weeks to go or 49 more days! We are almost there!

Week 32- 8 more weeks!

What's Baby S up to?

By now, your baby weighs 4 pounds and is about 17 inches long, taking up a lot of space in your uterus. You're gaining about a pound a week and roughly half of that goes right to your baby. In fact, she'll gain a third to half of her birth weight during the next 7 weeks as she fattens up for survival outside the womb. She now has toenails, fingernails, and real hair (or at least respectable peach fuzz). Her skin is becoming soft and smooth as she plumps up in preparation for birth.

To accommodate you and your baby's growing needs, your blood volume has increased 40 to 50 percent since you got pregnant. With your uterus pushing up near your diaphragm and crowding your stomach, the consequences may be shortness of breath and heartburn. To help relieve your discomfort, try sleeping propped up with pillows and eating smaller meals more often.

You may have lower back pain as your pregnancy advances. If you do, let your caregiver know right away, particularly if you haven't had back pain before, since it can be a sign of pre term labor.

Assuming it's not pre term labor that's ailing you, you can probably blame your growing uterus and hormonal changes for your aching back. Your expanding uterus shifts your center of gravity and stretches out and weakens your abdominal muscles, changing your posture and putting a strain on your back. Hormonal changes in pregnancy loosen your joints and the ligaments that attach your pelvic bones to your spine. This can make you feel less stable and cause pain when you walk, stand, sit for long periods, roll over in bed, get out of a low chair or the tub, bend, or lift things.

What's going on with me?

Still feeling very antsy and nervous. I feel like I have so much to do and little time to do it in. My husband is painting the nursery and he has other painting jobs I want done before the baby comes.

We still have to buy alot of stuff. Actually everything. I am not having a shower. My family does not do one. So we have alot of stuff to buy. Also I am trying to sell my car so we can purchase a family car. My car is a two door and I just want a 4 door. Its getting very stressful that I haven't sold it yet.

I am feeling rather stresses out. I am trying not to but as the weeks so by, my excitement grows but also my nervousness rises too. So much to do in so little time.

8 more weeks to go... that's only 56 more days to go!

Week 31-Getting very antsy

What's Baby S up to this week?
Your not-so-little-one is just a bit closer to their birth weight and height at around 4 pounds and 17 inches. With each added layer of baby fat, your baby's skin starts to look more and more like it will when they finally get to see the light of day. The heavy news: you can expect your miracle-gro muffin to gain about a half a pound of weight per week from now until about two weeks before birth. Great. That's just what you needed. Even more weight to carry around!

Your baby's still-developing immune system has gained substantial strength over the past few weeks getting them in full gear to face our disease-ridden world o’ wonders. Obviously, a large majority of your child’s immune strength will be derived from exposure to breast milk as well as the outside elements. Their cute little noggin’ (which could already be covered with luscious locks or just purty peach fuzz), is still soft because the skull bones have not yet fused together. As much as that sounds a little too vulnerable, their “skull softness” allows for a much smoother passage through the birth canal during labor—something both you and your little swimmer will appreciate when it’s finally time to “go!” Also, some babies will have that “soft spot” on their head for up to one year after birth.

I am getting very antsy this week more than usual. I just cant wait to meet this little one. I feel like we need to get the house in order. My husband just started the nursery last week. It still needs alot of work. It isn't even painted yet. What if I go early? What will happen if I don't sell my car? I need to get a new one. I feel like I am running out of time. I guess these anxieties are normal. Although we only have 2 months to go, I have to think that's its plenty of time to everything done.
I am also feeling more tired. At night after work I just want to lay on my chair and watch TV and then go up to bed at 8pm and read and go to sleep. Sleep though has gotten more difficult. I wake up literally every 2 hours to go to the bathroom but also from not being able to get comfortable. I guess the baby is preparing me to be awake. I am starting the sleep deprivation already. Even before baby is here.

9 more weeks to go!

Week 30- Starting the nursery

What's Baby S up to?
Your baby's about 15.7 inches long now, and she weighs almost 3 pounds. A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds her, but that volume will decrease as she gets bigger and takes up more room in your uterus. Her eyesight continues to develop, though it's not very keen; even after she's born, she'll keep her eyes closed for a good part of the day. When she does open them, she'll respond to changes in light but will have 20/400 vision, which means she can only make out objects a few inches from her face.

You may be feeling a little tired these days, especially if you're having trouble sleeping. You might also feel clumsier than normal, which is perfectly understandable. Not only are you heavier, but the concentration of weight in your pregnant belly causes a shift in your center of gravity. Plus, thanks to hormonal changes, your ligaments are more lax, so your joints are looser, which may also contribute to your balance being a bit off. Also, this relaxation of your ligaments can actually cause your feet to spread permanently, so you may have to invest in some new shoes in a bigger size.

Remember those mood swings you had earlier in pregnancy? The combination of uncomfortable symptoms and hormonal changes can result in a return of those emotional ups and downs. It's normal to worry about what your labor will be like or whether you'll be a good parent. But if you can't shake the blues or feel increasingly irritable or agitated, talk to your doctor or midwife. You may be among the 1 in 10 expectant women who battle depression during pregnancy. Also let your caregiver know if you're frequently nervous or anxious.

We are starting to do the nursery. It is very exciting. We are going to paint the nursery a green. I decided to wait on the bedding until the baby arrives and we know what it is. I have a girl bedding and boy bedding picked out. I can't wait to put the room together and just wait for this little ones arrival.

I also just purchased a couple of books to prepare me for the baby and what to expect the first year.
I purchased What to Expect, the First Year and BabyFacts.

http://www.babyfacts.com/index.html

I am ready to welcome my sweet little one. 10 more weeks to go!

Week 29- More movement.

What is Baby S up to?
Baby’s energy is surging, thanks to the formation of white fat deposits beneath the skin. (Have those kicks and jabs to the ribs tipped you off yet?) Baby is also settling into sleep and waking cycles, though, as you’ve also probably noticed,they don’t necessarily coincide with your own. Also this month, all five senses are finally functional, and the brain and nervous system are going through major developments.

Your baby now weighs about 2 1/2 pounds (like a butternut squash) and is a tad over 15 inches long from head to heel. His muscles and lungs are continuing to mature, and his head is growing bigger to make room for his developing brain. To meet his increasing nutritional demands, you'll need plenty of protein, vitamins C, folic acid, and iron. And because his bones are soaking up lots of calcium, be sure to drink your milk (or find another good source of calcium, such as cheese, yogurt, or enriched orange juice). This trimester, about 250 milligrams of calcium are deposited in your baby's hardening skeleton each day.

I have been feeling more and more movement and I absolutely cherish it. I love to lay down at night and just feel the baby move all around. Sometimes my stomach is distorted and bigger on one side. One night the baby was moving so much he/she was keeping me up. My munchkin must be preparing me for those sleepless nights. The baby is also awake in the morning with me.

I can't wait to meet this little one who is moving inside me.
About 11 more weeks or 76 more days.

Week 28-Some myths

Whats Baby S up to this week?
· Eyebrows and eyelashes are now very noticeable!
· Hair on baby’s head is growing longer. Some babies are born with almost none at all, while others appear to be ready for their first haircut!
· Eyes are completely formed now. Quite a view from inside!
· Your baby's body is getting plump and rounded. Most of that increase is muscle tissue and bone. Fat will be added during the third trimester.
· Muscle tone is improving. Preparation for the Olympics feels like it is taking place in your womb!
· Lungs are capable of breathing now (but baby would still struggle and require medical attention if born now)
· Talk to your baby often, reading stories, singing songs and more. He or she can recognize your voice now and will often calm to it later on!
· Your baby weighs in now at 2.2 pounds and is 14.8 inches.

Don’t do this. Don't do that. With all the pregnancy "advice" out there, it's hard to know what to believe, or whom to believe. But remember, every pregnancy is different, so follow your doctor's orders above anything else. Here are some myths that I found that can be helpful.

Myth 1: Eat three healthy meals a day
False! You should be eating six or seven small meals (every two to three hours). "Eating frequently and from various food groups will keep your blood sugar in a constant range, which is healthy for you and your baby," says Stuart Fischbein, M.D., coauthor of Fearless Pregnancy. Don't obsess about food and don't diet. What was good for you pre-pregnancy is good for you now. And yes, that includes an ice cream sundae with butterscotch sauce if you so desire.

Myth 2: Decaf only
False! One small cup of coffee a day is perfectly fine. While a recent study at McGill University in Montreal did find that the caffeine in two to three cups of coffee a day increases the risk of miscarriage, it did not consider how the coffee was brewed and the type of coffee used. Dr. Minkin points out that a French blend served black is much stronger than a weak cup of American coffee mixed with milk. It's another controversial subject for sure, but moderate caffeine intake isn't likely to harm you or your baby. The same goes for sodas with a caffeine jolt.
Myth 3: Cut out the cheese
False! Well, you don't have to cut all the cheeses. Some kinds, like cheddar and Swiss, are innocuous because they have been pasteurized. It's the soft, unpasteurized products like Brie, feta, and goat cheese that might carry food-borne illnesses. If you're lucky, the market you frequent will carry pasteurized versions, just start looking at labels more often. And then you can still enjoy your crackers with cheese.

Myth 4: You're eating for two
False! Pregnancy is not a time to pig out. You certainly have a bit more leeway when it comes to a second helping of supper, but on average women need only about 300 extra calories a day.

Myth 5: Say so long to seafood
False! Chances are that if the reputable (and tasty) sushi bar you love so much has not made you sick pre-pregnancy, you are not at risk when you are with-child. Yes, there is a greater risk of ingesting bad kinds of bacteria from raw foods (so you might feel more comfortable with a cooked-shrimp roll), but if you had spicy yellow fin before realizing you were pregnant, no harm done. The dangerous mercury levels, you ask? Again, it's all about moderation. Enjoy tuna on rye once a week, not daily. Not all fish are created equal. When perusing a menu, go with seafood with lower mercury levels, like salmon, shrimp, and tilapia. Unfortunately, swordfish and tilefish have the highest levels of mercury and should be skipped.

Myth 6: You'll have to suffer through sickness
False! Many OTC meds are safe during pregnancy, but somehow women believe they need to put up with migraines and be a slave to the runs. Not so. You should consult your OB/GYN before you take anything, but many experts give the following drugs the green light: Tylenol for headaches and fever; Tums or Mylanta for heartburn; Imodium for diarrhea; Robitussin for colds; and Sudafed or Benadryl for allergies. Many prescription drugs are also okay to continue with during pregnancy, but again, follow your doctor's orders. Herbal supplements and teas are up in the air. Not much research has been done on their effects on fetuses. The kinds you buy in the grocery store are probably safe, but check with your doctor first. If you need to soothe your nerves and want to take the natural route, meditate or eat a piece of chocolate. We prefer the latter.

Myth 7: They'll know you're not a natural blonde!
False! Being pregnant does not have to compromise your appearance (at least not above the belly), but you do need to be smart. Dr. Fischbein says that while there is a theoretical risk associated with coloring your hair (chemicals being absorbed through the scalp), studies have not shown anything conclusive. He recommends avoiding dye for at least the first trimester, when the baby's organs are forming. Relieve worries by opting for a natural vegetable dye over a semipermanent or permanent product, but Dr. Minkin still suggests checking them out with your doctor during the first trimester. Eggplant, anyone?

Myth 8: Exercise is a no-no
False! Clear everything with your OB to be sure, but many docs say that keeping up with mild exercise is just fine. If your pregnancy is sans complications, low-impact workouts can be a great way to control your weight and prep for baby -- just be sure to avoid contact sports or exercises that involve lying on your back (this position can reduce blood flow to your brain and uterus).

Myth 9: Manicures are out
False! You don't need to forgo weekly manis just because you want to be a mommy. "You would need massive and long-term exposure to the products before there was a chance of problems," says Dr. Fischbein. You might get a little nauseous from the fumes with your newfound sensitivity to odors, but if that's the case, make your appointments for less crowded times of the day. Still freaked out about what's in the nail polish itself? If you fear exposure to dibutyl phthalate, a much-debated ingredient in some polishes, look for brands that don't use the stuff like Urban Decay,L'Oreal Jet Set Nail Enamel, and Revlon Nail Enamel.


12 more weeks until I can meet my sweet little one!

27 weeks- We ordered our Baby Furniture!

Whats Baby S up to?
Your not-so-tiny-anymore brilliant baby(about 2 pounds and 14.5 inches long!) is slowly rotating in preparation to “head out.” Obviously, this doesn’t happen overnight, but when you start to feel an unfamiliar pressure on your cervix, you’ll know you’ve got a fully flipped baby locked and loaded for the countdown to their birthday! Even now, at the beginning of the third trimester, their little lungs are already capable of breathing air while the pulmonary vascular system can provide sufficient gas exchange and the central nervous system can generally regulate rhythmic breathing as well as their basal body temperature. For what it’s worth, at this point in a healthy pregnancy a premature child (with intensive care) could easily win on the show: “Survivor: The Early Years.”

Whats new this week?
Well I guess no news is good news. Thursday I went for the glucose test. The nurse said if she didn't call me all is good. So no call means I passed!
Sunday my mother and I wen to look for baby furniture. We both fell in love with this set. We wanted to get my husbands opinion and he loves it too. Last night we went and ordered it! They said it takes 10 to 12 weeks to come in. I absolutely love it. Its so classic. We did order white. Both boy and girl bedding goes great with it. I cant wait to get the nursery all set up! We are going to paint the nursery a light, calming green.
Things are moving along.
Here is the furniture we picked.

http://www.munirefurniture.com/bristol_01.htm


13 more weeks! I can't wait to hold my little one in my arms and rock on the glider in his/her nursery.

Week 26- Sciatic Pain

Whats Baby S up to?
Your baby is getting chubby. She weighs about 2 lbs and measures more than 9 inches in length. You're continuing to grow, too, which is a sign that you're both healthy! A pattern similar to life outside the womb is starting to develop. You may notice a distinct wake-sleep cycle, where periods of activity alternate with quiet times on a regular basis. Your baby's senses are coming into full bloom. She can't see yet, but she can hear, taste and feel, and her brainwave patterns are similar to those of a newborn. If your health care provider listens your baby's heartbeat now, he or she may notice a skipped beat, which is a condition known as an arrhythmia. Often this is normal and disappears as the heart matures. If it's still present when you are ready to deliver, a fetal heart rate monitor can detect any signs of distress.

I had my doctor appointment this week and everything is looking good. I had the glucose test. I had to have a light breakfast, drink this wicked sugary drink and then they took my blood an hour later. The drink wasn't that bad. Just very sweet. I wont get those results until Monday. The doctor said everything looked good and I asked about my sciatic pain. He said there isn't much you can do. I told him I cant walk alot but have been swimming alot. He said that was the best thing to do. He said it will get better and then might get worse again.

What exactly is sciatic pain, and how can you alleviate it?
Your sciatic nerve is the largest nerve in your body, providing stimulation and movement to the lower half of your body. The sciatic nerve runs under your uterus to your legs. So it’s easy to see why, when your uterus has grown many times its normal size, it can start pressing on and causing discomfort to your sciatic nerve. Some women describe sciatic nerve pain as a sharp, shooting pain down the back of their legs.

Most of the time the greatest relief you can have from this pain is to lie down on your side and take a load off your back and legs. When possible, lie down on the side opposite the pain – so for example, if you have pain shooting down your right leg, you should lie on your left side. However, that kind of relaxation is not always practical for moms whose job involves a lot of sitting or standing, or moms who are already chasing after little ones at home. If you must stand for a long time, try standing with one foot on the ground and the other foot lifted up and resting on a stool or box. And if you need to sit for a long time, use a donut pillow or a foam support to balance out your weight.
Other ways to relieve the pain include using warm compresses on your lower back or taking a warm bath. You could also wear a Belly Sling or other support system to help alleviate some of the pressure. And of course, even though it may be tempting to put on your favorite set of heels, you should always wear comfortable shoes, particularly if you are having lower back or leg pain.

Swimming is an outstanding exercise for pregnant women and has been known to help relieve sciatic nerve pain. Some women find that prenatal yoga gives them relief and helps them relax more as well. You may also find that a good massage from a licensed prenatal massage therapist can help soothe you and ease your pain. In cases of severe sciatic pain, your health insurance may pay for a physical therapist, who will help you with special exercises to strengthen your abdominal, lower back, and pelvic floor muscles.

With your doctor’s approval, you may also take acetaminophen to relieve the pain, but you only take the absolute minimum that you need, and you should not rely on it as your sole source of pain relief.

The good news is that sciatic nerve pain in pregnancy is usually temporary. It may run its course before you deliver, or it will almost certainly end after you deliver. If it continues beyond delivery, you should ask your doctor for a referral to a physical therapist who can help you.

I cant believe the second trimester is over and I will in the 3rd trimester soon. I have to say that 2nd trimester flew by and I hope the last one does too. I cant wait to meet my little one.

Only 14 more weeks to go!

Week 25- 15 more weeks!

Weeks 25-28 (month 6): Eggplant

Whats Baby S up to?
Head to heels, your baby now measures about 13 1/2 inches. Her weight, a pound and a half, but she's beginning to exchange her long, lean look for some baby fat. As she does, her wrinkled skin will begin to smooth out and she'll start to look more and more like a newborn. She's also growing more hair, and if you could see it, you'd now be able to discern its color and texture.
Let your spouse put an ear to your belly, he might be able to pick up baby's heartbeat (no stethoscope required). Inside the womb, the formation of tiny capillaries is giving baby a healthy pink glow. Baby's also soaking up your antibodies, getting the immune system ready for life outside the womb. Eyes are forming, and baby will soon perfect the blink, perfect for batting those freshly grown lashes.

Well I have found out that I can't do what I used to. I can't go go go anymore. I get very tired and I feel aches and pains that I never did. I have been swimming in my pool and it feel so much better.
I also have sciatic now and it hurts to walk. I have to listen to my body more now. I am also feeling more pressure on my bladder. So that means more trips to the bathroom.
Baby is moving up a storm and I can’t tell you how much I love that feeling.
I usually love summer but this year I can’t wait for it to be over. Not because of the heat, but I just want October to get here so I can hold my sweet baby in my arms.

15 more weeks! I can’t wait to meet you my sweet little one.

Try not to stress

This article was emailed to me from Baby Center.com. I think its great and really something to follow.
Here is the list of things you shouldnt stress about when you are pregnant.


"Don't stress if you can't get everything done that you had planned each day. The baby won't know if the housework isn't done!"

"It's okay to tell co-workers that you're not interested in their advice. Every pregnancy is different."

"Remember, every problem has a solution, and confiding in someone who's close to you or who you think can offer help or support is a step forward. Don't be afraid to talk to your partner, OB, or midwife."

"Don't stress about how you look. You're performing a miracle — growing a person inside of you — and that's a fantastic accomplishment."

"If you trust your OB, let her do her job and follow her recommendations; if you don't, find a new doctor who you do trust. You should never be afraid to call your provider with big and small problems."

"Don't stress about tough times with your partner. A baby tests any couple's relationship."

"Don't stress about things like food or weight. Just be sensible. There's no need to give yourself an anxiety attack over the pint of ice cream you just finished. Take it as your special reward for everything you've accomplished so far in your pregnancy, and move on."

"If you're doing everything in your power to make healthy choices, don't worry so much. Women have been having babies since well before we knew what to do and what not to do."

"Mothers-in-law don't know everything!"

"Don't stress too much about things in the environment you think might harm your baby, like standing to close to the microvave or pumping gas. Remember, the vast majority of babies are born healthy."

"Don't worry about labor. It is what it is. Just educate yourself on your options, and be ready to make informed decisions. Beyond that, just take a deep breath and go for it. It's not as bad as you think it'll be."

"Don't stress about how the baby is fending in the womb. It's a roll cage, but your baby is probably comfortable in there."

"Every little twinge doesn't mean something is wrong."

"No matter what decisions you make, someone will always disagree. Try not to let the negative comments upset you, and if you're really worried about something, talk with your doctor or a nonjudgmental friend."

"There's no such thing as a stupid question, especially for first-time mothers. Being pregnant and birthing a child are unique experiences, and a woman will never know what it's all about until she's actually done it herself."

"It's okay if you don't have everything ready for your baby. Newborns don't need a whole lot in the beginning."

"When I accepted heartburn, back pain, lack of sleep, and moodiness as a normal part of pregnancy, they didn't seem to bother me as much anymore."

"If you're worried about being a good mom, you probably have nothing to worry about. My husband keeps telling me that bad mothers don't worry about whether or not they'll be good moms."

"I had never really been around children, and I made mistakes, but as long as you love your baby and are careful with the important stuff, you can't harm him or her with small mistakes. You'll soon get comfortable with the routine."

"Don't stress too much over all the "rules" pregnant women now have. A bath warmer than lukewarm won't lead to disaster. If you accidentally eat a soft cheese you're not sure is safe, there's no use worrying after the fact. Our mothers had fewer restrictions than we do, and we turned out fine."

Week 24

What's Baby S up to?

Your bundle of joy is looking more angelic every day, gaining weight (she's more than 16 ounces or .45 kg), growing longer (over 8 inches or 20 cm) and filling out! Your baby is also starting to produce white blood cells, which will help fight infection after she leaves your body and enters the world. You may be surprised to notice that your baby responds to the sound of your voice or even the touch of your hand on your tummy by quieting down or occasionally increasing activity as a way of communicating with you!

Nothing new to report this week. I have been feeling the baby move more and more each day. Its an amazing feeling. 16 weeks to go! I can't wait to meet my little one.

Week 23- Two years later...

Whats Baby S up to?

Turn on the radio and sway to the music. With her sense of movement well developed by now, your baby can feel you dance. And now that she's more than 11 inches long and weighs just over a pound (about as much as a large mango), you may be able to see her squirm underneath your clothes. Blood vessels in her lungs are developing to prepare for breathing, and the sounds that your baby's increasingly keen ears pick up are preparing her for entry into the outside world. Loud noises that become familiar now, such as your dog barking or the roar of the vacuum cleaner, probably won't faze her when she hears them outside the womb.

I am feeling the baby more and more everyday. It used to be just morning and night. Now it seems like I am feeling the baby more during the day as well. Last night I think the baby had hicups. It was so cute.

I have been still trying to stick with an exercise routine of walking, lifting weights and prenatal yoga. I have found this week I am more tired. When I push myself to walk I do feel better, but I can definitely feel a difference.

I cant let this day go by without a little remembrance. It has been two years today when I found out I had a missed miscarriage with my second loss. I will never forget that day.

http://theperfectmatch-suzanne.blogspot.com/2008/11/are-we-getting-tested.html

I still can remember the pain and agony that I was in. I was convinced I was not meant to be a mom. I was being punished, I would never have a healthy pregnacy, I would never get over the pain I felt. They say time heals all wounds and pain. Yes that's true, time does help, but I don't think you can ever forget. I was so hopeful and happy the day before, it was Fathers Day. My husband was going to be a Dad soon, my new nephew was born that day. We were all so happy. Then the next day we got the worst news of our lives. I never felt that much pain in all my life. It felt like my heart was ripped out and I was only left feeling empty. It took me so long to recover emotionally and physically. Did it make me stronger? Yes I believe it did. It made me realize your life can change in an instant.

Two years later, I do sometimes find myself think,"I would of had a year and half year old." I then say that it wasn't meant to be then. As I am here almost 6 months pregnant I feel like I cant help but have that fear still that something can go wrong. I am still fearful when I don't feel the baby for a little while. I think, "oh God is something wrong?" Then I feel the best feeling in the world. My little munchkin moves like he/she is saying, "I'm here Mommy and I'm OK". My favorite moments are when I am laying down at night and feeling the baby move.

I urge you to read my story. If you take anything from it please take that miracles can happen and do happen. There is light at the end of the tunnel. Some good comes out of something bad. You have to have strength and determination. I am meant to be a mother. That IS my density.

17 more weeks. I will have that dream come true. My long road will finally be all worth it.

Week 22

What is Baby S up to?
Watch what you say, baby is now able to hear outside noise from down in the womb. Studies show that baby finds gentle music and your own voice most soothing. Nipples are starting to sprout, and that little face is fully formed. And, baby's starting to settle into sleep cycles, snoozing about 12 to 14 hours a day. It shouldn't be hard to figure out when just pay attention to those kicks as they start and stop.

Well some exiting news this week. My husband felt the baby move! I always grab his hand and say, "feel that?". He has always been, "um no". But on Monday night he felt it! The baby kicked in two places! He said, "was that it?" "I felt it, that is so cool!".

The baby definitely sleeps alot during the day. In the morning and at night are the most active times. I love at night laying down in bed and reading and feeling the baby move up a storm.Some nights I swear its doing acrobats in my belly. I just feel so connected to the baby. I then every night do my relaxation. I then talk to the baby and say good night and how I hope it continues to grow nice and strong and I also tell the baby how very much I love him/her. I then go to sleep. Its a ritual I just love.

My mornings are the same. I lay in bed for a little while before getting up and just feel the baby move. During my commute at work, I listen to classical music and just feel the baby squirm around. What a great feeling. I feel like I am never alone and I am bonding so much to this little precious baby.

18 or so more weeks and I get to meet my little one that I feel inside me. I can not wait!

Week 21- I love the way you move!

What is Baby S up to?
10 1/2 inches long and and weighing up to 16.5 ounces!

Chances are good you're feeling someone performing a round-off back handspring in your uterus by now. Is there any other feeling this cool? Other highlights this week:By now your baby looks like a mini-version of what she'll look like when she's born. All her facial features are formed and hair is growing on her head. She's even acting like a baby and will occasionally suck her thumb or yawn. Baby's heartbeat is getting stronger and can be heard using a good old-fashioned stethoscope. Ask for a listen at your next prenatal visit! By 21 weeks, fetal bone marrow starts making blood cells—previously done by the liver and spleen. This may not sound that exciting, but it's good news. The amniotic fluid that has been cushioning your little bean now serves another purpose: Your baby uses it to "practice" chowing down. Yes, it sounds gross (as many aspects of pregnancy do), but it's an important step for your baby toward being able to chow down in the real world. Your baby has been swallowing amniotic fluid for a while now, but now the intestines are finally developed enough that she's absorbing small amounts of sugars from it. And let's face it, being able to effectively digest sugar is important at every stage of life.

I love feeling the baby moving. The baby is very active. It has to be the best feeling in the world. I feel him/her all day long.

This weekend my husband and I spent the weekend together. We had such a great time together. I cant believe in a few months its going to be the 3 of us. We cant wait. We went to a baby store and looked at baby furniture, strollers, and baby stuff. It was fun to look at that stuff. I am still afraid to buy anything. Its nice to look. I wont feel comfortable in getting anything until September. We will be painting the nursery soon. I am going to do a yellow. I decided the baby bedding will wait until I actually have the baby. The baby doesn't go in the crib until later anyways. I can always order it online. I just haven't found anything neutral that I like. Its either way to boyish or way to girlish. I have a few ideas and it will go with my yellow walls.

19 more weeks! I can't wait to meet my little munchkin!

Week 20- We are halfway there!

Whats Baby S up to?

Baby's digestive system is busy creating meconium (a tarry black substance made of swallowed amniotic fluid, digestive secretion and dead cells), which will fill the first diaper after birth. And, your baby weighs about 10 1/2 ounces now. He's also around 6 1/2 inches long from head to bottom and about 10 inches from head to heel. (For the first 20 weeks, when a baby's legs are curled up against his torso and hard to measure, measurements are taken from the top of his head to his bottom — the "crown to rump" measurement. After 20 weeks, he's measured from head to toe.)He's swallowing more these days, which is good practice for his digestive system.

Whats going on with me?

I can't believe I am halfway there to meet our little one. I never imagined I would make it this far. Although I still have fears, but I am starting to believe there will actually be a baby in my arms in October. My favorite time is when I am sitting watching tv after a long day at work and I feel the baby move around. Also when I lay in bed I can feel the little one squirming around. This reassures me that all is ok. What a great feeling it is.

I have been feeling great but this weekend though I have become nauseous if I eat something I am not used to. We had Chinese food Saturday night and I felt like crap after. I never eat Chinese food. I think I need to stick to food that I know doesn't bother me.

I also found out that I cant over eat or eat alot. I get that nauseous feeling with that too.

Here are a few pictures my niece took of me yesterday.

Week 19

Whats Baby S up to this week?
Your baby's sensory development is exploding! Her brain is designating specialized areas for smell, taste, hearing, vision, and touch. Some research suggests that she may be able to hear your voice now, so don't be shy about reading aloud, talking to her, or singing a happy tune if the mood strikes you.Your baby weighs about 8 1/2 ounces and measures 6 inches, head to bottom. Her arms and legs are in the right proportions to each other and the rest of her body now. Her kidneys continue to make urine and the hair on her scalp is sprouting. A waxy protective coating called the vernix caseosa is forming on her skin to prevent it from pickling in the amniotic fluid. You may also notice some darkening of your nipples, freckles, scars, underarms, inner thighs, and vulva.

I went to the doctors today. My cervix is stable and looking good. I am measuring at 22 weeks. 3 weeks ahead! He took a tape measure and checked my belly. I guess we are going to have a big baby.
I noticed yesterday that I have linea nigra, which is the the darkened line running from your belly button to your pubic bone. I also noticed that my birth mark I have on my upper lip is more prominent that it was before. All these skin changes are normal and due to hormones.
All in all I feel good. I am working out 5-6 days a week. Here is a sample of my workout schedule. I might mix it up and do one of the Prenatal DVDs I listed below. Most my workouts last 45 minutes to an hour. The weekend workouts are longer. No more than an hour and half I try to keep my heart rate below 140. When I walk hills it does go up a little.

Sunday: Walk and total body toning or Prenatal fitness DVD.
Monday: 30 minutes of Prenatal yoga DVD at night.
Tuesday: Walk 30 minutes, lower body toning.
Wednesday: Walk 30 minutes, upper body toning.
Thursday: Walk 45 minutes, 30 minutes of Prenatal yoga DVD at night.
Friday: Off
Saturday: Walk and total body toning or Prenatal fitness DVD.

My favorite Prenatal DVDs:

Element: Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga- Elena Brower. 30 minutes prenatal yoga practice.
Yoga for your Pregnancy-Co-created by Lamaze and Yoga Journal.Prenatal yoga 31 minutes, relax 17 minutes.
Crunch Yoga Mama-Sue Elkind. 40 Minute prenatal yoga practice.
Prenatal Yoga- Shiva Rea. 60 minute prenatal yoga DVD.
Denise Austin: Fit & Firm Pregnancy-20 minute cardio, 20 minute toning.
Summer Sander's Prenatal Workout- Divided into 3 trimesters. Each workout uses the identical format: an extended warm-up, a mix of varied (mostly standing) exercises and a long, soothing stretch. About 40 minutes.

Week 18- Second trimester ultrasound! We are having a....

A perfect Boy or Girl! We did not want to find out. I went today for the second trimester ultrasound and all looks perfect. The tech took tons of pictures of everything. She said the baby is a mover and loves to suck his/her thumb. Its hands were always by its mouth. My mom said I came out sucking my thumb. So my little munchkin takes after me.

Whats up with Baby S this week:
Head to rump, your baby is about 5 1/2 inches long and he weighs almost 7 ounces. He's busy flexing his arms and legs — movements that you'll start noticing more and more in the weeks ahead. Your fetus has become amazingly mobile (at least compared to you), passing the hours yawning, hiccuping, rolling, twisting, kicking, punching, sucking and swallowing. And, baby's finally big enough that you'll be able to feel those movements soon. His blood vessels are visible through his thin skin, and his ears are now in their final position, although they're still standing out from his head a bit. A protective covering of myelin is beginning to form around his nerves, a process that will continue for a year after he's born. If you're having a girl, her uterus and fallopian tubes are formed and in place. If you're having a boy, his genitals are noticeable now, but he may hide them from you during an ultrasound.

Here are some belly pictures from yesterday.

Week 17- Ultrasound pictures.

I had some pain today so I called my doctor. He sent me for an ultrasound. I got to see my little munchkin and boy does he/she love to move around. I got to see him/her do a somersault and the tech caught it and took the picture.

Sucking his/her thumb

Somersault!

Week 17- Is that the baby moving?

Whats Baby S up to?

The baby's skeleton is changing from soft cartilage to bone, and the umbilical cord — her lifeline to the placenta — is growing stronger and thicker. Your baby weighs 5 ounces now (about as much as a turnip), and she's around 5 inches long from head to bottom. She can move her joints, and her sweat glands are starting to develop.

A few things has happened this week. First, I became an aunt again. That makes number 8. My husbands sister had her second. She had a beautiful girl. When I went to meet her in the hospital I was holding her and all I kept on thinking was, "5 more months and I will be holding my sweet baby. I can't wait."

I also realized that I don't remember how to swaddle! I totally forgot. My sisters youngest is 8 so its been a while. I think I need a refresher course.

When they were leaving the hospital my sister in law was in the wheel chair and my husband was pushing her. Her husband went to get the car and her 2 year old son was just crying wanting his mom. She had a c-section and was in the hospital for 5 days, so I think it was just alot for him. She had to hold him and she gave me the baby. I got to carry her out. I felt so privileged and special.

I have always felt blessed to be an aunt. I always thought of it as a very important role. I am also godmother to 5 of them also. I have been Auntie Sue for almost 13 years and I have enjoyed every minute of it. I love my 6 nieces and 2 nephews more than anything. I never thought I could love someone has much as I love them. I can only imagine the love I will feel for my own son or daughter. You know the saying, always a bridesmaid and never a bride. I have felt this way. Always an aunt and never a mother. In 23 weeks that will all change. I will have two important roles that I will hold very dear to me, Aunt and finally Mother.

Today when I was riding to work I felt what I believe was the baby moving. It felt like butterflies or that feeling you get when you go on a roller coaster. I think my baby loves the music I listen to each morning. It has been coming and going all day. What a great feeling it is to know, yes there is someone in there growing inside me.

Week 16- I am 4 Months Pregnant!

Whats is Baby S up to?

Get ready for a growth spurt. In the next few weeks, your baby will double his weight and add inches to his length. Right now, he's about the size of an avocado: 4 1/2 inches long (head to rump) and 3 1/2 ounces. His legs are much more developed, his head is more erect than it has been, and his eyes have moved closer to the front of his head. His ears are close to their final position, too. The patterning of his scalp has begun, though his locks aren't recognizable yet. He's even started growing toenails. And there's a lot happening inside as well. For example, his heart is now pumping about 25 quarts of blood each day, and this amount will continue to increase as your baby continues to develop.

Well I guess we have to watch what we say now. Tiny bones forming in baby's ears mean the little one can now pick up your voice. Oh God, I better stop yelling at my husband. My hormones have been crazy this week. Everything he does or says just pisses me off. I have also been exhausted. I thought that was supposed to get better? I think it is mostly I am up every hour going to the bathroom. My body must be preparing myself to be up with the baby every hour.

Here are a few belly pictures I took this morning. Wednesday I have an ultrasound and doctors appointment. I will post the ultrasound pictures.

I cant believe I am 4 months pregnant! I have only 24 more weeks to go!

My love for music and I Haven't Met You Yet

I always had a love for music. I grew up singing with my sister Barbara Streisand and Donna Summer songs. I also could appreciate classical music as well. I remember when I was little I would sit and listen to my older brother playing classical music on the piano. I could sit and listen to him all day. Then I would go to my grandfathers and he would always be listening to an opera or the three tenors, Plácido Domingo, José Carreras and Luciano Pavarotti. That music would just move me to tears. I remember crying when I heard Giacomo Puccini's Nessun Dorma from the opera Turandot and Vesti la Giubba from the opera Pagliacci.
I have been listening to classical more these days as well. I heard its great for the development of the baby. On my hour commute in the morning I put on the classical station and let the baby listen to the beautiful music. It also relaxes me. Sometimes sitting in traffic can be stressful and it really helps with that. I take deep breaths and just enjoy the beautiful sounds and think of my baby how he/she is enjoying it as well.
I also can appreciate other music as well. I love all kinds of music. Country, rock, oldies and top 40 hits. I can only imagine my baby is dancing around in there and just having a party.
There is one song that I love and it makes me think of my sweet baby. It’s the new Michael Buble’ song called, Haven’t Met You Yet. The song is for someone who hasn’t met the love of his life yet, but I think of the love of my life I can’t wait to meet, my son or daughter.

The lyrics are just perfect. My heart has been broken so many times with my losses. I tried so hard not to lose it and I knew one day it would all work out. Your love is going to change me. I promise you kid, I will give it all I have. Whenever the timing right you will come into my life. I haven’t met you yet, my sweet baby.

Lyrics to Haven’t Met You Yet by Michael Buble’

I'm not surprised, not everything lasts
I've broken my heart so many times, I stopped keeping track
Talk myself in, I talk myself out
I get all worked up, then I let myself down

I tried so very hard not to lose it
I came up with a million excuses
I thought, I thought of every possibility

And I know someday that it'll all turn out
You'll make me work, so we can work to work it out
And I promise you, kid, that I give so much more than I get
I just haven't met you yet

I might have to wait, I'll never give up
I guess it's half timing, and the other half's luck
Wherever you are, whenever it's right
You'll come out of nowhere and into my life

And I know that we can be so amazing
And, baby, your love is gonna change me
And now I can see every possibility

And somehow I know that it'll all turn out
You'll make me work, so we can work to work it out
And I promise you, kid, I give so much more than I get
I just haven't met you yet

They say all's fair
In love and war
But I won't need to fight it
We'll get it right and we'll be united

And I know that we can be so amazing
And being in your life is gonna change me
And now I can see every single possibility

And someday I know it'll all turn out
And I'll work to work it out
Promise you, kid, I'll give more than I get
Than I get, than I get, than I get

Oh, you know it'll all turn out
And you'll make me work so we can work to work it out
And I promise you kid to give so much more than I get
Yeah, I just haven't met you yet

I just haven't met you yet
Oh, promise you, kid
To give so much more than I get

I said love, love, love, love
Love, love, love, love
(I just haven't met you yet)
Love, love, love, love
Love, love
I just haven't met you yet

Week 15- Ouch bladder infection.

Baby S is 4 inches long and weighs more than 2.4 ounces now! If you were to peek inside your uterus during pregnancy week 15 you would still be able to see your baby's blood vessels through his paper-thin skin. In fact, the blood vessels forming in your baby's body make him look rather like a map! This week, your baby will start producing lanugo, which is fine hair that will cover your baby's body up until a few weeks before birth. Lanugo covers every part of your baby in utero, except for the palms, soles of the feet, lips, penis, nails, and inner fingers and toes. Typically babies will shed this hair by the 8th month of pregnancy, but it can persist in some newborns for a short period of time. Pre-term babies are more likely to be born with lanugo than full term babies. Your baby might start sucking his thumb this week. The bones in your baby's body are also starting to get harder during pregnancy at 15 weeks and will continue to do so throughout your pregnancy. Your baby is spending most of his time practicing breathing, by inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid. Believe it or not, the very act of doing so will help your baby's air sacs develop during pregnancy. Your baby continues to form taste buds at this point in time.

Friday I called the doctor in the morning. I have been feeling pressure and it hurt when I went to the bathroom. They told me to come right in. They close early on Fridays so they told me to get in the car and come over. The doctor was pretty sure I had a bladder infection. They gave me antibiotics and she said the results wouldn’t come back until Tuesday because of the long weekend. She said to take the antibiotics anyways and if it comes back negative I will simply stop taking them. I got a call today that I do in fact have a bladder infection. I feel much better than I did before. I guess it is very common in pregnancy.
A urinary tract infection (UTI), also called bladder infection, is a bacterial inflammation in the urinary tract. Pregnant women are at increased risk for UTI's starting in week 6 through week 24.

Why are UTI's more common during pregnancy?
UTI's are more common during pregnancy because of changes in the urinary tract. The uterus sits directly on top of the bladder. As the uterus grows, its increased weight can block the drainage of urine from the bladder, causing an infection.

What are the signs and symptoms of UTI's?
If you have a urinary tract infection, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
· Pain or burning (discomfort) when urinating
· The need to urinate more often than usual
· A feeling of urgency when you urinate
· Blood or mucus in the urine
· Cramps or pain in the lower abdomen
· Pain during sexual intercourse
· Chills, fever, sweats, leaking of urine (incontinence)
· Waking up from sleep to urinate
· Change in amount of urine, either more or less
· Urine that looks cloudy, smells foul or unusually strong
· Pain, pressure, or tenderness in the area of the bladder
· When bacteria spreads to the kidneys you may experience: back pain, chills, fever, nausea, and vomiting.

How will the UTI affect my baby?
If the UTI goes untreated, it may lead to a kidney infection. Kidney infections may cause early labor and low birth weight. If your doctor treats a urinary tract infection early and properly, the UTI will not cause harm to your baby.

How do I know if I have a UTI?
A urinalysis and a urine culture can detect a UTI throughout pregnancy.

How is a UTI treated?
UTI's can be safely treated with antibiotics during pregnancy. Urinary tract infections are most commonly treated by antibiotics. Doctors usually prescribe a 3-7 day course of antibiotics that is safe for you and the baby.

How can I prevent a UTI?
You may do everything right and still experience a urinary tract infection, but you can reduce the likelihood by doing the following:
· Drink 6-8 glasses of water each day and unsweetened cranberry juice regularly.
· Eliminate refined foods, fruit juices, caffeine, alcohol, and sugar.
· Take Vitamin C (250 to 500 mg), Beta-carotene (25,000 to 50,000 IU per day) and Zinc (30-50 mg per day) to help fight infection.
· Develop a habit of urinating as soon as the need is felt and empty your bladder completely when you urinate.
· Urinate before and after intercourse.
· Avoid intercourse while you are being treated for an UTI.
· After urinating, blot dry (do not rub), and keep your genital area clean. Make sure you wipe from the front toward the back.
· Avoid using strong soaps, douches, antiseptic creams, feminine hygiene sprays, and powders.
· Change underwear and pantyhose every day.
· Avoid wearing tight-fitting pants.
· Wear all cotton or cotton-crotch underwear and pantyhose.
· Don't soak in the bathtub longer than 30 minutes or more than twice a day.

AAH the joys of pregnancy! I feel so much better already. I have been on the antibiotics since Friday and what a difference. Don't ever hesitate to call your doctor!