Whew!

Boy these last few weeks have been extremely busy!  Once my house closed I have been furiously moving the contractors through different work items in the house, then my friends came in town, shower this weekend, moving next week.  A lot going on in a short amount of time.

The shower....just wonderful. I had a great group of folks together, the decorations were just so sweet, and the gifts were very generous. It really made me feel a bit better about baby coming because a lot of things I needed, people brought as gifts.  Everyone there was so supportive, and it was also just relaxed and casual. I don't really play games, so we didn't have any. And it was great.  On the physical front, I was up and around a lot, so my stomach spent a lot of time really hard, and I got cankles. I've not had my feet swell up so bad before....and even w/ laying down over last few days somewhat, they still haven't gone all the way back down.
I am now just about 33 weeks and there is no mistaking there is a baby in there. My upper stomach has really expanded, especially by the end of the day. Around my belly button it had itched a few weeks ago and now I have some small stretch marks there. And along the sides of my lower stomach. Ah well.

My two friends from out of town were able to go to the Dr. w/ me today before their flight and saw the ultrasound for the first time.  They were in awe. AND, we got some good views of her heart, spine/ribs, feet, but just not her full face. We did see a chubby cheek, though!  She weighs 4lbs 13 oz and is basically standing in my uterus. Head up, as she always has been, and feet down, kicking around my lower uterus/bladder. I can certainly feel it, and it often hurts a bit. When I sit for long period and stand up, it really is hard to walk.
This weekend took it out of me for sure. I've been exhausted....but feel good I was able to keep up as much as I have.  Because remember, I am still supposed to be on modified bedrest.

I haven't really focused on the fact that I have about 5-7 weeks left. I have sort of focused on car, house, get house ready, move in house, get baby room ready, then have baby (in that order).  Well, when all is said and done that is coming quite soon.  I am not nervous right now, though, or anxious...which is good.

Lots of other thoughts rolling around, but I haven't written in awhile, so I wanted to at least update that things are moving along as expected and I am hanging in there!

Cars, Houses, and Babies...oh my!

Later update than I wanted....I actually did buy my SUV. And. I. Love. It.  It is so nice to be higher off the road, it smells brandy new w/ the leather....I can sit and just smell it all day.  My obsessiveness is coming over me, though, because I am sooo careful where I park. I don't want anyone to door ding me....and trust me that happens everywhere here. I know in time I'll get over it, but for now, I want to keep it as new as possible.

I close on the house on Tuesday. I have been very busy w/ calling/meeting contractors, window guy, painter, others to get ready. I've decided that the biggest thing I do need to do before remodel/paint is to get the foundation fixed--this is very common to have this problem in older homes in the south if they were built on slab.  I wasn't going to do it, but my realtor was right, yet again, that I don't want to spend money to remodel, and have it ruined when foundation may move. She is so right.  So, before I can get any work done, this is the first thing.  I left foundation people a message on Friday and hope to get a call back, or will call them tomorrow.  This may put my timeline back a little because I'm not sure how quickly I can get them scheduled. I know that the work only takes one day to complete.  If I had planned better, I could have had them lined up already. Ah well.

I do only have a few weeks to get whatever I can get done...done...because my stuff will be moved to the house August 1 that's in storage.  Then Aug 2nd I'll have my apartment stuff delivered (still have to line someone up for that, but that's no biggie).  My sister is going to come down that week to help move in, and hopefully buy a new car for herself. We looked when she was down here before and the deals are much better here (way bigger city) than where she lives. I already warned her I have no idea what shape my new house will be in.....but we'll have to make it work, whatever it looks like.

On tuesday I am 31 weeks.  W-O-W.  I am really happy about this. For some reason I had this huge fear of pre-term delivery all the way along. I realize that even now would not be the best and she still needs to cook, but the passing of that 30 week mark just makes me feel sooo much better for her.  AND, I also realized that if I deliver at 37 weeks that is only 6 weeks from now.  Ummmm....what?! I am nowhere near ready.  All of her stuff is still in boxes and a tub in my living room.  Don't even have diapers yet.

I have my friend baby shower in a few weeks. I'm looking forward to it, because this is w/ a lot of friends I used to work w/. A lot of them have been very supportive and clearly I need it.

Lots going on....it is going to fly by the next several weeks I think.  Good news is I don't have much time to worry---but believe me I still have time to stress some.  But, I have to focus and just do. I have to say I feel physically and emotionally better now than I have in awhile.  My Dr. told me my body has topped out in the amount of extra fluid, etc. and I should be able to maintain.  The key has been just letting my body rest by staying at home, and going in to the office occasionally.....and just parking it on the sofa after I go out for a few hours on the weekend.  Yes, I don't feel very strong or physically fit....but I can breathe better and feel like I can cope. 
That is good.

Excitement

I'm going to say it.  I really am......I am getting........excited!  I think for a variety of reasons, my fear and anxiety about this pregnancy has started to quiet down.  That doesn't mean I've conquered my worry about actually bringing home a baby and we will both be healthy, but I try to tuck that into my "anxiety" bucket and not let it sneak up on me as often.

I went to the one-day, fast-track childbirth class w/ my friend who is going to be my coach last Saturday.  She drove in from out of town, and it was at the hospital I am going to give birth at.  It was a fantastic class.  The instructor was very knowledgeable, funny, and is a lactation consultant at the hospital too. We really did learn the process from A-Z about pre-birth, birthing, and bringing baby home.  There were 15 couples in the class--all of them were there w/ men except one lady was there by herself, and us. Didn't really matter...actually some of the husbands brought up some ridiculous questions and my coach leaned to me and said "See, aren't you glad you are doing this by yourself?!".  During several times throughout that class I really was.  The neatest thing was going to see the nursuries.  They had several babies in them and this one....all wrapped up tight, little burrito,...but his eyes here WIDE open. Looking around as if to say, where the heck am I....this isn't where I was....who are these people....it was so cute.
Really comfortable w/ the hospital and going to deliver there.

She is continuing to get stronger and grow. Her punches, jabs, etc. have gotten stronger and she is moving a lot, especially at night. The class taught us that most newborns do have a reverse schedule and it isn't best to fight it the first few weeks....just focus on your healing and getting to know your newborn. 

I now have a noticeable bump.  I am carrying really high, so perhaps that's why it hasn't stuck out much all this time.  Also, she is breech, so her head has been up near my chest the whole time. And squishing my guts thank you very much.  Still not enormous for almost 7 1/2 months, and I am happy about that! (Please excuse the loungewear).

Bump 29 wks 3 days

I've gotten some amazing gifts that now occupy my living room.  As I've mentioned, I had the baby shower at work....and since then some of my faraway friends have gotten me some more gifts, including the car seat I picked out. Really excited to get this because clearly it is most necessary in bringing baby home.  I ended up choosing the snugride 30....for use up to 30 lbs and plan to get a Snap N Go stroller. So, base stays in the car, and carrier is moveable.  I'm happy w/ decision and think it should work just fine.

Hmmm...someone has made themselves at home.

I think I am going to buy my new vehicle this weekend. I've looked at, and test driven this SUV for several years. It is 4 door, one of the mid-size (not super-big), lots of cargo room, and very high safety rating. Gas mileage a bummer, but for all of the other conveniences, I think it will work for me. I have been waiting on it because it is quite expensive.  I am frugal. Those dont go together. But, the idea of shopping for a vehicle w/ a brand new baby isn't appealing.....nor is it appealing to consider putting her in the back of my two door car--yikes for my back and getting in and out.

My house is coming along.  Closing July 10th. I am working on getting insurance before closing, getting contractors lined up for bids....lots to do. Still need to pick out paint colors, and get even more contractors lined up. It just has so much space I am looking forward to getting in there.  I finally went to the apartment leasing office and put in my notice on this apartment. They were able to give me a few extra days pro-rated since July 31 ends on a Tuesday. I'll need a few extra days to make sure house ready to move in, AND to get my other stuff in storage scheduled.

Clearly, w/ all that I would like to do before she gets here.....(I haven't mentioned getting the nursury together yet have I), she needs to stay put and keep on cookin.

28 weeks

I was at a follow up appointment today and got this picture of my baby girl's profile.

So sweet.

I don't really get tired of seeing her on the ultrasound screen.  She also weighs 2lbs 11 oz now.  I hope I'm going to have a little piggy and I can't wait!!!  Her stomach was really big last time...this time other part are catching up....but so neat to see.  She was very active...and has been last few days.

I also had my work baby shower today.  A lot of the people I work with were in town for a meeting, so they had scheduled when the most could be here.  It was short, sweet, and no games!!  We ate lunch, then I opened gifts, then one thing I did do was ask everyone to go around the table and give some advice that stuck w/ them.  The other thing I did was ask the 3 dads in the room what advice they would have, or want to be sure some male role model plays for her. The biggest thing was building male relationships to help build a sense of confidence. Can't agree more.
They were generous...overly so.  They got me some big things like the pack and play and a video monitor for the baby. Also, some clothes/items that couldn't have been cuter....and some breast feeding supplies--I'm changing back to this boss and we've talked about importance of breastfeeding....so she got nursing pads, cover-up, etc..
My message to all of them was how lucky I felt to be in a team that has embraced my path and decision to be SMC (at least outwardly no one has said anything at all negative)....and that I appreciate their support in many ways. Since my mom has passed and my extended family is several states away, I rely on this community as extended family.  I actually have been totally open about how I'm building my family. I am not embarrassed by it at all and don't see the need. I usually just sense how the other person is, and if they ask questions...I answer.  Someone outside my group asked me when I told her about the IVF "did you get to use your own eggs"....I said yes. Initially I thought is was a strange question, but when she revealed that she had struggled w/ fertility, totally got it.

Oh and I almost totally forgot to mention.....I got the house!!!!!!!!  The sticking points were 1) could we get A/C fixed up to be better in master bedroom (yes) and 2) would they agree to money off price of home for repairs needed.  We submitted 13k, they came back w/ 6,500....and we went back w/ 8,500 and they agreed.  This just got finalized last night.
SO----it means baby and I will have a home to go to.  I didn't realize how heavy this was weighing on me until it all came through and I feel much lighter.

I am physically exhausted w/ all that's happened in last few days...lots of deep breaths today to keep it in check.....but a good one.

Sunday Night/Monday Morning

Insomnia.  I've got it.  It's now 12:06am. Officially Monday.  I am not totally surprised and it is somewhat my fault.  I didn't stick to my rule of getting up at 9am yesterday or today.  I slept in both days until around 11-12. Then today I even took a nap.  Really....I do this mostly when I am bored.  It would have been good for me to get out of the apartment today, go to the book store, grocery store...just somewhere. Naw...have been flipping TV all day long...mixed w/ surfing the internet. Back to a schedule tomorrow as I do have to go in the office.....I am thankful for that.

The house--well....realized that we couldn't get all inspections done by Friday close of business. So, we asked for an extension until end of day tomorrow. We even have another A/C guy coming tomorrow morning to see if a few new vents can be put in. Talk about last minute, but in the summer, it can just be that way.  There are a lot of things that would need to be done to the house. Not total re-do, but still.  Part of me is nervous that it will work....or that it won't work.  I have waffled a bit on this because of just having an easy out next year if I decide I want to move.

Although, my apartment living peace has now been disrupted. Unfortunately this week I got some new neighbors across the hall.  Imagine 2 or 3 20-something's....boys.....guess what they like to do?  Surround sound video games, surround sound movies, and surround sound music.  The base might as well be in my living room. At all hours of the day and night--thump thump.....thump...thump thump thump.....you get the picture.  In fact right now, I can hear it and yes, It's midnight.  The first few days they moved in I called the office and they'll put a letter to them. Don't have high hopes for that....but it will be at least another 6 weeks that I live here.  Going to have to do something.

I finally have another preparation checked off my list!!!  My friend who will be w/ me during delivery is driving here from out of town next weekend. I signed us up for the fast track one-day childbirth education class.  It is from 9-5, includes general info, some breathing techniques, tour of hospital and nursery, etc..I'm excited to get to see the rooms and the floors in the hospital to help me get a picture of it all. Gives me some comfort when it is time.

I'm feeling ok.  My upper stomach is still sticking out a bit more, but I was told by several people when I say I am 7 months along...wow, where is she?  I don't mind at all as long as she's staying growing on track. I actually met up w/ some friends yesterday and all 3 of them have younger children. I asked a lot of questions about nannies/day cares, etc.. and it seems 2 of the 3 have really had a tough time finding the right 'fit'. Either the nanny didn't work out, the daycare just doesn't work, or all the above. One of them said her daughter is in her fifth arrangement in 6 years. Part of that included a move, but still.  It got me a bit concerned. Also, they were very quiet when I asked them about motherhood....saying, "I assume it's hard, etc."....strangely quiet. Maybe they were thinking OMG, it's hard enough w/ a husband......who knows.  That's why I go back and read my blogs of people just like me.  Makes me feel better.

It's father's day and I didn't call my Dad.  I just don't have a relationship w/ him enough to want to call.  It's strange how I had such an amazing love with my Mom.....and such an angst and stress w/ my Dad all these years. He was very traditional in that he made the money, but that's where his role stopped.  He wasn't the type to go outside and play catch, or take us places, etc.. He also was very short-tempered and we all never knew what would set him off.  Was it that we were going to a restaurant he didn't like..? Did someone make a noise at the table?  He would fly off the handle regularly....and was socially awkward.....so it was simply stressful being around him. But, that didn't stop my mom from trying to make it all work....being the peace-maker.....bringing us all together because...well...that's what families did.

Although, in a way, my mom was a single parent.  My dad worked nights and slept during the day. My mom pretty much took care of everything.  She was always there....at every sporting event. And guess what? We didn't have extended family around....we didn't have babysitters.....she did it all herself. And now, look who's doing the same thing?  Difference is, she didn't have to have a job financially to make it happen.

It's interesting how growing up that way has shaped my views of what it means to be a great mom, what I wouldn't tolerate in a partner....and that I can do this myself.  Scary as all of this is sometimes.

Better!

I am glad that I can report improvements....! 

In my overall well being--since going on modified bedrest I have slowly felt a bit better w/ the shortness of breath, fast pulse, headaches, etc.. And I know when I do too much/stay too long at work because the symptoms start coming back.  I know that my muscle mass is dwindling away, but that's what after baby is about...building my strength back up. If I can just maintain and keep her where she belongs, that'd be just great w/ me.  Since that really big dip after my hospital stay in physical/mental health....my emotions/mind has seen improvement. I feel much more "normal" than the wreck I was.

Baby--I have just crossed 27 weeks and am looking towards 28 weeks next Tuesday! 7 months, 3rd trimester, close to the finish line (but not too close that she doesn't need to stay put!).  She weighs 2lbs 4 oz and is still growing right on track.  While I was at last ultrasound I got to see her move her hand in front of her face. So cute.  She is moving moving moving.  Mostly after dinner, and then when I lie down to go to sleep. It's almost like she's trying to get comfortable too.

Place to live: Believe it or not, I put in an offer on a house.  We are still in inspection period and have uncovered several things. It is going to depend on how much the seller willing to negotiate when we bring the $$$ amount to them.  We have to finalize a deal by Friday--two days--or contract will not go.  It has been a bit overwhelming over last few days, but what tipped me over the edge on buying was: house came up on great street, my old neighborhood, 1 block from park, 4 blocks from school, and sort of okay price/shape. The other thing was about money.....no surprise.  I was realizing I kept needing to bump my rental budget up because a lot of what I was seeing wasn't big enough, not in really good shape, etc.. It got bumped up so much that it just rivaled going ahead and buying a house for equal payments.  Really a no brainer when you consider interest rates so low, etc..  So, why not. Will see.

My sister came for a visit this past weekend and it really was nice.  She helped out so much w/ the 'physical' stuff like helping to recycle, do my 3 loads of dishes, clean bathroom, laundry, grocery shop, etc.. We've both come to terms w/ the fact that her strong suit is not the emotional, but the physical. So, that's what she came to do.  I also had my last OB appointment w/ her and she got to see the ultrasound for the first time, meet my Dr., etc..  She was amazed--and I never get tired of seeing my baby move around..showing signs of good health.  It was really nice having someone here, to go places w/, to talk to...etc..  Really a good visit.  She may even come back down if the house goes through to help me move in.

I have not had pressure at work to be there or be at home. They kind of take it as I can do it. It's been great. Not to say I still have guilt because of what I know I could do if I was 100%. But, I am not. I've gotta just deal.

I'm slow to update in my blog these days....no real reason.  I've been reading others and really continue to learn/appreciate what others going through too. This is a non-conventional, often tough road.  I know for me it's just begun since baby not here yet.  But, I heard a quote on TV the other day that is sticking w/ me....

"Life begins when you step outside your comfort zone"  unknown author

And boy has it for me!

No Wieners

I know in some old posts I've said pregnancy is not for wieners. Well, I really do mean it this time.  Whew. I have to say this past Wednesday had to have been the worst I felt since the beginning of all this---physically and mentally.

Since coming home from hospital last Friday, I tried to take it easy...relax, but not too much. Well, I think I got too much sleep over last weekend (which is usually the start to a spiral down), and my shortness of breath, indigestion, fast pulse were in overdrive.  The Holiday came, then I was still pretty fatigued and not feeling well Tuesday, so stayed home sick from work.

So Wednesday I said okay, get it together, get to work.  It seemed from the moment I opened my eyes, took a shower, I was short of breath.  I pushed through thinking once I get to work it would be better.  I huffed and puffed my way to my desk space.  Couldn't seem to breathe well all morning.....and headache was back.  Then, I went down in our office building at lunch....and during that walk just wanted to cry. Emotionally I felt so drained and physically I could walk, but it felt like I was 80+ years old and weighed 500 lbs.  I was getting light headed as well.
Finally got something to eat and made it back to my work space.  I was done. I had left a message for the nurse that morning and she called around 1pm.  I told her of my continued issues and she said I should probably come in and have the Dr. re-evaluate me that day.

Headed over to Dr. and when I got there I just said this isn't working...I felt so rotten, and barely able to function. I was worried she was going to hospitalize me again, but at that point I didn't really care.  She checked if I was retaining fluid (no), checked fluid around baby(good), checked my weight gain (9 lbs good), checked my blood pressure (122/80).  Her response was what we had talked about before. She believes that the additional blood and fluid volume is just really hard on my body and its not coping well.  But prior to her saying so she looked very serious, turned to me and said "there's no turning back now".  She said the baby is at a point that if I was in distress, they would have to deliver her. And she's not ready.  I just simply responded w/ "I know". Scared the bejeezees out of me.  My anxiety went to a whole new level worried about my baby and preterm delivery. All the complications, etc. I just could hardly think.

She felt like she wanted to get another set of eyes on me so she did refer me to a pulmonary specialist that I will see on Tuesday.  Just to rule out any other problem (other than what she's identified).  Oh, and when I asked her about work she said it seemed to her I could barely function...yes, true. So, I asked if I should work from home.....she said she'd write me a letter stating that is was necessary.  Her guidance is that I need to keep the least amount of stress on my body and keep my heart rate down.  It's bedrest in a way, but I'd like to think of it as modified.

Because saying BEDREST scares the bejeezees out of me too.....My emotional state being what it is, isolation like that is something I can't fathom right now. 

As you can see, this week has been very tough.  But, I have thought about what I can do during this time.....here's what I've done and will do:
1) went to see counselor twice this week
2) Called my good friend and cried it out.
3) Texted a few friends out of town and asked if they would come stay w/ me in next several weeks....they all said yes
4) Talked to my sister and she is coming in town next weekend for 4 days
5) Upon advice from close friend...I called one of their nurse friends and walked through situation. Wanted to see if doing the right things, missing anything. Nurse friend is totally on board w/ Dr. viewpoint and plan.
6) Made myself a schedule. MUST be up by 9am....work, eat breakfast, work, lunch/shower, work until end of day, go to apt pool and just sit or wade. It makes my body feel good. Go out of apartment from 5:30-around 7pm.  Come home, TV, bed at reasonable hour. It is CRITICAL I don't let myself sleep too much and control the things I can control...like getting out of bed.
7) Blogged.
8) Plan in place to talk to boss about whole issues since last week, and come up w/ a workable schedule.

That's all I can think of for now, but thought a pretty good list.

Yesterday and today I worked from home. Had two full days of work, stuck to the schedule....and have felt better. THANK YOU LORD.  I am going to continue trying to keep my heart rate down, to keep the shortness of breath/headache at bay. 

I still worry that something will happen to me or baby during this time....that nagging thought still there. I suppose reasonable given the scares I've had so far.

Gotta take it day by day.  That's all I can do. (Sometimes minute by minute :)   )