Dreaming Pink Due Date Group: TTC and Beyond

[I Love Ladybugs]

Mathilde...I hope you feel better soon!!! I need to stay healthy until after the next round of appts in Vancouver, it is not good to be sick at all on the medical bus or when you are at the children's portion of the hospital. My DS1 is starting school, so my big goal is making sure we all stay good and healthy..at least for 2 weeks!!

[Mathilde]

Thank you ladybugs:)

[myrainbowgirl]

Ladybugs - Stay well!

Happypixi - Yes, I agree, you are sweet to be happy for your SIL! I remember secretly being glad I was the only one in my family to be pg while pg with DS3...every other time I shared it with a SIL on both sides of the family! This time I'm alone, too, but SIL is trying...but they have been for awhile, and I'll truly be happy if she gets pg soon! :)

Mathilde - I hear you on the holding out hope thing. I only have a .6% chance and I am still hoping! So sad. BUT, I am doing better emotionally after a rough weekend. Had a great talk with DH, and figured out that one of the reasons I've been stuck in my GD is my own fears about #5. DH is not standing in the way of another...I am. If I can just let go of my fears, I know I can get excited about DS4 and a future DD! So...working on letting go. I am such a type A, feeling the need to be in control, and I think that's why this has thrown me for a loop SO much. Just gotta let go. Need to treasure this pregnancy and baby, because he may be my last, and will definitely be my last boy! But anyway, you don't know anything for sure...really feel like you still have a chance! Feel better soon, btw!

[GeCon]

Morning ladies,

21 weeks today and our wee man is now the size of a banana. And apparently he can hear us now. :)

Feeling very excited about his arrival next year, but are no further with a name...

Hope everyone is doing well, sorry about the lack of personals, but I have got to rush...

[Mathilde]

Isnt it strange we all are struggling with names?

[thehappypixi]

I'm lucky I have two lovely sister in laws, they both live down south and I'm up north so don't see them often. I'm a bit worried about the pregnant one, as I'm not sure she is coping too well with the two she has, and her husband works away - he will be off again just as baby is born :/ My cousin in New Zealand has been trying to get preg for about 10 months now, we were both trying and emailing at the beginning of the year, I just hope she gets up the duff soon. Also worrying as she is 36 now :/

I'm weakening to the idea of finding out, mostly because my eldest, Joshua, is certain this is a girl and I really don't want him to be disappointed! Will have a sneak peek at work at 16 weeks I think...

[GeCon]

I'm weakening to the idea of finding out, mostly because my eldest, Joshua, is certain this is a girl and I really don't want him to be disappointed! Will have a sneak peek at work at 16 weeks I think...

Exciting! :)

[thehappypixi]

I weakened early and tried to see a nub tonight, I think I did, I think it's a boy. I feel a bit sick and stupid for looking, I could have kept on the blissful thought that maybe, just maybe, it was a girl. It's so not :'(

[Dreamofpink]

It's still early happypixi! All's not lost & nub-guessing is not easy. Keeping my fingers crossed for you. When do you have your gender scan?

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[Waiting4Daisy]

Oh pixi it's too early. I was sure my nub was boy but had a few girls I was friendly with from in gender think it was actually girly so just have to concede I am still team green! My sis was with me for dating scan and said she thought boy too but realistically she doesn't have a clue about nubs and I def didn't see any willy bits so who knows what she saw, I just need to put it to the back of my mind since I have approximately 24 weeks to go to find out lol!!!

Look how many boyish early shots have turned girl here recently?! You are not out for pink at all!!!

Mathilde I get very thirsty too. It is a nuisance. Hope you feel better soon

[thehappypixi]

Thanks girls :) Urgh this journey sure sucks sometimes! So many people never even contemplate what we are going through, I wish I was one of them! I nearly went back to look again, but I'm going to do it at 16 weeks, and do it as close to the end of my shift as possible as all I want to do right now is crawl into my youngest sons bed and snuggle up with him and squeeze him and smell his smell.. and now I'm crying again!

[thehappypixi]

My scan is mid October I think...

[thehappypixi]

BTW I like your avatar dream of pink... I am contemplating home schooling :)

[Emily]

I weakened early and tried to see a nub tonight, I think I did, I think it's a boy. I feel a bit sick and stupid for looking, I could have kept on the blissful thought that maybe, just maybe, it was a girl. It's so not :'(

I thought i saw a boy nub at 12 weeks and a willy at the 22 week scan. I am having a girl. Obviously there is no way of my knowing what you are having but just wanted to say that I thought I knew my stuff - have guessed soooo many people's nubs correctly but when it came to my own ......

Unless a qualified tech tells you what they think at a later you really are just going on a hunch. Huge hugs.

[Niva]

Thehappixi, I don't think you should count yourself out yet. But I do know just how you feel. I am also really wavering between finding out or not at my anatomy scan on the 16th... I don't want to miss out on all the fun preparation if it IS a girl! But I'm not sure I'm ready to let go of not knowing if it is a boy. I wish there were some way to find out only if it's a girl, but keep it a surprise if it's a boy.

I also know how you feel about thinking you've burst your bubble of happy ignorance. I over-analyzed a nub shot at 11 weeks and was sure it was a boy. I took it hard. But then I realized that 11 weeks is just silly-early, and it wasn't even a decent nub shot. Now I'm back to thinking I have pretty equal chances either way, and I think the experience may even have softened my GD a little... Instead of using my not-knowing as an excuse to mostly picture a girl, with GD lurking if it's not, now I'm pretty much equally picturing it being a boy and really envisioning being okay with that. This whole uncertainty thing, while being hard due to curiosity, is much, much softer than what I had last time -- an unexpected, unchangeable, unwelcome XY verdict at 14 weeks. Right now, I'm just enjoying feeling the kicks of my genderless baby, and I think that will really help me bond with it if it's a boy. But... if it isn't, I could be knitting sweet things for her right now instead of sticking to unisex... help, I'm wavering!

FWIW, add me to the clubs of feeling fat and having a REALLY hard time finding a boy name I like! Isn't it crazy how you can find about a zillion girl names that you could live with, and at least a dozen you love, and additionally you can make one up and not worry too much about scarring her for life? But for a boy, the pickings are so slim! I'm beginning to think I already used the only "perfect" one out there on DS1!

And the weight issue... Ugh. I just spent three weeks with family and friends (thus my absence here) and we ate out quite a lot. I don't even want to step on a scale for fear I've used up most of my allotted weight gain already. I could still fit into non-maternity clothes, with a few adaptions, before I left. Now that is totally out of the question, but as much for the rest of me as for my belly, ick! I'm only 5'2" so even five extra pounds shows on me like crazy. And it didn't help that I kept seeing "perfect" bumps while away... Those lucky ladies with muscly arms who you can't tell are pregnant until they turn and you see the perfect basketball in their belly. Jealous!

I'll write more later... I'm trying to get to bed early and failing miserably...

[Niva]

BTW I like your avatar dream of pink... I am contemplating home schooling :)

I am definitely leaning that way right now, too! :)

[Dreamofpink]

I am definitely leaning that way right now, too! :)

Home-education's fab & we love it. Although right now as we're packing up our house getting ready to buy our new one (& hopefully sell this one after a long summer of being messed around) it would be great to have somewhere to send them each day :wink: Seriously though, I LOVE having our boys at home, knowing that they're learning at their very own rate. Ds1 was very prem so I always feared that he'd take a while to catch up with his peers & be labeled. He is a slower learner than ds2 so I feel vindicated in a way but I'm not sure exactly how much is down to confidence & personality.

How did you ladies hear about home-ed? :)

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[Dreamofpink]

I was thinking we didn't need anything for this baby, but after spending the last few days sorting out the attic with DH it was great hearing him tell me to go out & buy some new things! I like to get as much use out of things as possible so am not keen on buying new things, but I'm starting to see the benefit of a big-ish age gap & moving house right now!

Does anyone have experience of one of these wooden highchairs that turns into a chair for a child/young adult? I'm thinking it'd be good to try one of those this time especially as it's easier to keep clean than the traditional padded highchair with all the nooks & crannies for food to hide in. :)

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[Niva]

I was thinking we didn't need anything for this baby, but after spending the last few days sorting out the attic with DH it was great hearing him tell me to go out & buy some new things! I like to get as much use out of things as possible so am not keen on buying new things, but I'm starting to see the benefit of a big-ish age gap & moving house right now!

Does anyone have experience of one of these wooden highchairs that turns into a chair for a child/young adult? I'm thinking it'd be good to try one of those this time especially as it's easier to keep clean than the traditional padded highchair with all the nooks & crannies for food to hide in. :)

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I have a few friends with the wood high chairs, and they all love them! They have different sized rubber inserts for different ages, so the chair doesn't feel too hard for the kid. I'd definitely get one if I hadn't gone and bought a different one for ds1 last year.

I found out about home-ed from my Mom, lol... She did it with me as a kid. I always thought it was the best possible thing she could have done for us (me and my brother), but I never thought I'd want to do it myself because I saw how much it took out of her. Now, there seems to be no better option... The public schools here are completely awful and the private ones are just too expensive. And I've found a good friend here who is thinking of doing it with her two girls, so we want to eventually form a little group where we can trade off teaching days every week. My DS is only 2.5 right now so formal schooling is a ways off, but I feel like I'm already doing so much with him that actual home ed will be an easy next step when the time comes. :)

[myrainbowgirl]

Happypixi - Oh, I so know how you feel! But, really, it IS too early. I have seriously seen some VERY boy-looking nubs that are girls. But 16 weeks is perfect. Should be clear by then. Try not to be too discouraged...you're not out!

Dream - I totally went shopping today! I didn't have much time, unfortunately, would have loved to linger a little more. Got some cute boy stuff, and am glad that this little one will be born in the winter months, so I can do even more shopping! :)

Niva - I like your attitude of picturing both equally. It's exciting either way! I know you're team green, but when is your scan again?

AFM - Doing ok at the moment, I seem to be feeling somewhat better about everything. I know that God's plan for me is perfect, better than what I could come up with! There is no doubt in my mind that this little boy is meant for our family and will be such a special addition. :)

[Charlee]

Hello ladies!

I had to take a break from the site, and all things that make me obsess about GD in general. It's been one of those weeks...

In other news, I am starting to loose my mucus plug :( I tried to downplay it at the dr so she wouldn't rush to put me on full bed rest but she's no fool... I have a terrible feeling I'm heading way :) AND, on top of all of that, my boss changed my work schedule so now i'm working crazy hours... all things considered, I am taking this semester off school :) I just cant keep up with everything right now, and the health of my family and their well being (not to mention mine!) come first for me.... Needless to say it's been a rough week.

I don't have much time now because the boys are at it again this morning, fighting, bickering and getting into every single little thing. UGH!!!!!!! Someone save me!

When I have a moment later I will pop back on and get to personals... I've missed you ladies... you are my only friends whom I can talk mucus plugs with! LOL... most others get grossed out when I talk about jelly fish like substances coming out of my body! hahaha

[GeCon]

you are my only friends whom I can talk mucus plugs with! LOL...

:rofl:

and on the other things just :hug2:

[GeCon]

Does anyone have experience of one of these wooden highchairs that turns into a chair for a child/young adult? I'm thinking it'd be good to try one of those this time especially as it's easier to keep clean than the traditional padded highchair with all the nooks & crannies for food to hide in. :)

We have a Stokke Tripp Trapp and love it. We got it when LO was 6 months old with the cushion, baby set and harness. We will see how things are when the next one gets to 6 months and might just move DS1 to a normal chair or get another Tripp Trapp as it really is so useful.

[Niva]

Niva - I like your attitude of picturing both equally. It's exciting either way! I know you're team green, but when is your scan again?


My big scan is Sept. 16th, a week from Monday. And I'm seriously considering peeking as much as I can during the whole scan except during the actual potty shot... And asking for the gender in an envelope. If I don't see anything too boyish during the scan, I may think about opening the envelope... But if I do see suspicious bits, I'll just assume it's a boy while being happy to hang on to that last little bit of uncertainty. Hmmm, my nesting urges are getting pretty strong now and I don't want to miss out on preparing if it IS a girl!

Charlee, big hugs. I hope your mucous plug loss doesn't mean much... Must be frustrating to know you should be taking it easy while everything is conspiring to take your energy and attention. I think kids can often sense when their moms are stressed and that makes them act out, which doesn't help any! Hope your next week is calmer.

[Waiting4Daisy]

Niva sounds a great idea! Charlee hope all is ok and you can take it easy, though I know that's often impossible.

GeCon I have bought two outfits for my team green baby and one of them is the little baby gro you have in your avatar! It is so cute. I collected it today and thought holy crap these clothes are tiny and realised first size is up to 7 lbs 8 so hope baby will fit (my boys were 6'11, 7'15 and 7'11 but all still fitted first size). My hubby kept walking around with these tiny outfits pretending to cradle a baby and saying he couldn't imagine any of them that small! Bless him!

[meeks32]

I'm lucky I have two lovely sister in laws, they both live down south and I'm up north so don't see them often. I'm a bit worried about the pregnant one, as I'm not sure she is coping too well with the two she has, and her husband works away - he will be off again just as baby is born :/ My cousin in New Zealand has been trying to get preg for about 10 months now, we were both trying and emailing at the beginning of the year, I just hope she gets up the duff soon. Also worrying as she is 36 now :/

I'm weakening to the idea of finding out, mostly because my eldest, Joshua, is certain this is a girl and I really don't want him to be disappointed! Will have a sneak peek at work at 16 weeks I think...

This was my other main reason for finding out, my eldest was set on a girl despite my preparing him for a boy and pretending that was super cool and exciting. When we found out it was a girl he was over the moon and I was relieved to not have to spend 5 months preparing him, but if it was a boy I would have been glad for the early notice.

[meeks32]

Hello ladies!

I had to take a break from the site, and all things that make me obsess about GD in general. It's been one of those weeks...

In other news, I am starting to loose my mucus plug :( I tried to downplay it at the dr so she wouldn't rush to put me on full bed rest but she's no fool... I have a terrible feeling I'm heading way :) AND, on top of all of that, my boss changed my work schedule so now i'm working crazy hours... all things considered, I am taking this semester off school :) I just cant keep up with everything right now, and the health of my family and their well being (not to mention mine!) come first for me.... Needless to say it's been a rough week.

I don't have much time now because the boys are at it again this morning, fighting, bickering and getting into every single little thing. UGH!!!!!!! Someone save me!

When I have a moment later I will pop back on and get to personals... I've missed you ladies... you are my only friends whom I can talk mucus plugs with! LOL... most others get grossed out when I talk about jelly fish like substances coming out of my body! hahaha

Charlee so sorry to hear that but I hope you can keep bubs in as long as possible, and I know your doctor will be right onto things. I am so glad you are taking some time off study and sure that you can get back to it when baby is settled.

What did your doc recommend? Do you think you just lost a bit of the plug or all of it? Mine was huge with ds1, like between golf ball sized and tennis ball sized. I was horrified to see it in the shower!

[meeks32]

Sorry ladies I have been MIA with work snowing me under, just took on a 3 day a week position which ends when I'm 30 ish weeks (17 tomorrow) so have had a whole week of work training and have come home to a disaster of a house. Still catching up but I'm reading everyone's posts just can't always reply.

[myrainbowgirl]

Charlee - So sorry you've had a terrible week. I totally understand your frustration with your boys. I was so there a week ago. Fortunately, DS1 started school this week, and it's already helping. Hope that things improve with them! Also hope your mucus plug regenerates and it doesn't mean much! Did you lose it early with your other babies?

Niva - Good idea...wish I was so patient! Keep us posted if you decide to open your envelope. :)

Waiting4Daisy - Are you completely team green, or are you thinking of doing something similar to what Niva is suggesting?

GeCon - Hope you're well!

Meeks - So sorry things have been so crazy with work! Hope you're able to still take it somewhat easy. Done any shopping yet??

AFM - Had a terrible weekend last weekend, but after my DH and I had a good talk, I have felt so much better. In our conversation, we basically came to the conclusion that we will probably not prevent another baby, and at first won't try at all. I won't sway, other than diet, and not hardcore. If we don't get pregnant soonish, we may try if we still feel that we want another. Leaving it in God's hands. I said at first there was no way I wouldn't have a guarantee, but after looking into the options, it just didn't feel right. We are still open to adoption or HT, but for now, are not planning to pursue either. It seems crazy to consider a fifth without a guarantee, but all I can say is I feel SO much more peace about going that route and just trusting God. I am still scared out of my mind of having another, but I am so glad to finally feel at peace.

At this point, just trying to get excited about DS4...did a little shopping the other day, and will do more soon. :) Can't believe I'll be 16 weeks on Wednesday!

[Waiting4Daisy]

No rainbow this baby will be completely team green. They wouldn't do the envelope thing here. I don't know if they'll even tell gender here at 20 weeks as many hospitals won't here.

If they ask just going to say I don't want to know.

[I Love Ladybugs]

Charlee..I hope that your boys settled down for you.....and that the little guy inside holds tight for a while longer. Every day he is baking it better...do consider that!!!

Niva....you should come here and nest for me!! I can't wait for mat leave to start in 6.5 weeks and then I can truly nest. What have you been doing so far? I like your plan with finding out/staying team green...sounds like a good hybrid of it all.

Gecon...what items have you found? Any matching or coordinating stuff for your boys? I remember being so thrilled with one of my purchases for DS2 cuz it looked perfect with one of DS1 outfits!!

WaitingforDaisy...my boys can't believe how tiny our new baby will be. They keep on showing me an outfit that fits the 15+ size and think that will be for the new baby...I so hope not!

Meeks..my DS1 had the same exact reaction....over the moon! You are such a busy girl with your work schedule....hope that you have lots of energy and can keep on the sane side!!!

Myrainbowgirl....your future babymaking plans are fantastic...you can then just enjoy the flow of this little guy joining your already awesome family!!

AFM.....just over a week until all 3 appts are in and done. I am just keeping things organized here so that it is easy for them when I go, but I do plan on napping at this friend's place....and maybe on the bus down! My little DS1 is growing up....2.5 days of kindergarten behind him and a defined preference for "sandwiches" and apples....he loves the idea of a school lunch and eats his up with gusto. I think to myself...I can't wait to be on mat. leave to cuddle with them, to eat hot meals and to sleep when I need to! Only 6.5 more weeks :)

[bunnywabbit]

Hospital appt for me today for a blood test to see if we can figure out what's going on with me re. early miscarriages. Not sure if they contact me back and tell me either way, or if they put it in my notes and only bring it up if there's something to worry about. Have upped my protein levels just a touch to see if that makes a difference.

Thinking I'm out of this round before I started. Failed attempt on o-day (Saturday), so figured try again yesterday, but DH was pretty stressed and in a lousy mood, so again nothing. Thinking I o'd yesterday and missed it - line too pale today. Going to *maybe* try tonight (if all goes according to plan) and keep my FX, although not holding my breath...

[myrainbowgirl]

Good luck, bunnywabbit! That would be great timing for a girl. :)

[Niva]

Good luck, Bunnywabbit. I hope you get an answer. Are you taking iodine supps? Atomic suggested that for me after I had my chemical, since it is one thing that may be missing in a LE diet, and I seem to remember something about it being necessary for a pg to stick properly. I don't think it sways either way (hopefully), so maybe it's worth adding in just in case that's the problem?

[meeks32]

Good luck, Bunnywabbit. I hope you get an answer. Are you taking iodine supps? Atomic suggested that for me after I had my chemical, since it is one thing that may be missing in a LE diet, and I seem to remember something about it being necessary for a pg to stick properly. I don't think it sways either way (hopefully), so maybe it's worth adding in just in case that's the problem?

Yes I added in iodine in a half dose the month I got pg (On atomic's recommendation, after 4 chemicals, 3 in a row). Worked for me!!

[meeks32]

Charlee..I hope that your boys settled down for you.....and that the little guy inside holds tight for a while longer. Every day he is baking it better...do consider that!!!

Niva....you should come here and nest for me!! I can't wait for mat leave to start in 6.5 weeks and then I can truly nest. What have you been doing so far? I like your plan with finding out/staying team green...sounds like a good hybrid of it all.

Gecon...what items have you found? Any matching or coordinating stuff for your boys? I remember being so thrilled with one of my purchases for DS2 cuz it looked perfect with one of DS1 outfits!!

WaitingforDaisy...my boys can't believe how tiny our new baby will be. They keep on showing me an outfit that fits the 15+ size and think that will be for the new baby...I so hope not!

Meeks..my DS1 had the same exact reaction....over the moon! You are such a busy girl with your work schedule....hope that you have lots of energy and can keep on the sane side!!!

Myrainbowgirl....your future babymaking plans are fantastic...you can then just enjoy the flow of this little guy joining your already awesome family!!

AFM.....just over a week until all 3 appts are in and done. I am just keeping things organized here so that it is easy for them when I go, but I do plan on napping at this friend's place....and maybe on the bus down! My little DS1 is growing up....2.5 days of kindergarten behind him and a defined preference for "sandwiches" and apples....he loves the idea of a school lunch and eats his up with gusto. I think to myself...I can't wait to be on mat. leave to cuddle with them, to eat hot meals and to sleep when I need to! Only 6.5 more weeks :)

Well first 2 weeks of work went really well, the first week was hard because I had to go into the office for training... which is 3hrs drive away. So I was away for a week and we had to get DH's mum to come stay to look after the kids. Shes ageing now and lives 2hrs away so its not usually an option but for the week I had them in daycare two of the days, and ds1 in kinder one morning, so it wasn't too hard on her and I was so relieved to be able to relax with her to help.

Anyway now I'm working from home 3 days a week, and the boys have gone up to 3 days of daycare to match, because there is NO WAY I could do any work at all with a 2 and 4 year old around, I can't even sit down for 10 mins, let alone nap, so for me, work is easier than the days off!! But that's because I work on my computer, at my desk! My other job was customer service and this job is back in Design which I studied and was my professional career pre-kids. The customer service job was post-kids and SO tiring, on my feet all day, talking to customers at length all day, etc. If I did that 3 days a week I would be far more wrecked. I actually feel like I'm somehow cheating, I work 3 days, on my computer, in the profession I love, doing stuff I love, AND get paid for it, with nobody screaming at me or throwing things!!!! How did I used to think work was work??? KIDS ARE WORK!

[bunnywabbit]

Yes I added in iodine in a half dose the month I got pg (On atomic's recommendation, after 4 chemicals, 3 in a row). Worked for me!!

No, she told me to take zinc and iron 3 days a week. If it keeps happening, she may suggest iodine. Can you have iodine via diet (strawberries, potatoes, etc.), or is it not the same amount?

[myrainbowgirl]

Bunnywabbit - Not sure about iodine & other supps...but I'm sure they won't hurt!

Ladybugs - Hope all your appts go well this week. What exactly are they looking at? I'm assuming looking at LO's kidneys, etc.?

Meeks - Yes, these days I sometimes wish I was still working outside the home. :) One day I'll go back...I just quit, though, so it won't be anytime soon!

AFM - 16-week checkup today...all is well! :) Emotionally ok, have my moments, but for the most part getting better. My doc said today that I was so blessed to have 4 boys! I know she's right. :)

[bunnywabbit]

Yes I added in iodine in a half dose the month I got pg (On atomic's recommendation, after 4 chemicals, 3 in a row). Worked for me!!

Thanks girls. How much is a half dose?

Any brits in here that have used iodine? Where did you get it? I looked it up on the holland and barratt site and it keeps giving me sea kelp tablets! Not sure if should be that I'm getting and certainly don't want to get 200 tablets of the wrong stuff...

[Emily]

I used natures garden sea kelp which gives 100% rda iodine per tablet. They had it on offer in Holland and Barrett so it was super cheap. I took one a dya although the bottle says you can take up to 3.

[thehappypixi]

Had a bit of a meltdown on my SILs shoulder yesterday, she's up visiting and I was kinda dreading seeing her and her two perfect girls. But she was fab, she really understands, at least, she sympathises and has had the opposite comments when her second daughter was born, people asking if her husband was disappointed, that kind of thing. It's her sister who is expecting at the same time as me, and she admitted she feels very envious that we are pregnant! I don't think it will be too long til she goes for no. 3 too!
It's nice to know that they know how I will be feeling and I feel better not hiding it. They knew about the girl diet and sway etc but don't really think they thought it would work!
She's cooking food for us at her mums house round the corner, so am off there now armed with a massive apple crumble for dessert. The night shift,boo hiss!

Hugs to all xxxxx

[bunnywabbit]

Doctor's office called today - bloodwork looks fine except my thyroid level looks ever so slightly low. No clue what that means; if it's easily corrected and maintained by diet, or meds for the rest of my life. Also wondering how long it'll take for treatment to start and how much more complicated/unlikely a non-eventful pregnancy will be.

Has also made me wonder, given some of the symptoms of lower thyroid levels, if I don't, in fact, have rheumatoid arthritis at all and that the thyroid problem is presenting itself as RA. So many questions, so little time...

[Dreamofpink]

Happypixi, I'm so glad that your SIL was so understanding. It must really help you to be able to share your feelings like that irl. Does she have any desire for a son at all? Hope your night shift goes well, they suck! My DH is on a rolling shift pattern & I swear those who design them have no clue how tiring it is for the person doing the shifts & their spouses who get woken up at all hours through the night when they get home!

Bunnywabbit, have you got an appt to discuss your results further? I have no idea of the implications of a low thyroid level. I really hope that it's easy to sort & you get a bfp very soon. Hugs x

Hello to everyone else :wave: Hope you're all keeping well!

I had my 28 week check-up today & came out feeling really excited & pleased. I had both boys with me as DH was sleeping off a night shift. They did me proud & loved hearing the baby's heartbeat. I was so glad that they waited quietly & let the midwife do her usual. My bp was 110/60, I had a trace of protein in my urine but was reassured that it means nothing. I do get jittery around about now as I'm only a fortnight off the time when ds1 made his untimely entrance into the world!! We're hopefully moving in 3 weeks so this one has to stay put until at least the end of Nov! He's head down which explains the very uncomfortable pains in my cervix. Both ds1 & 2 were head down by this stage too so hopefully he'll stay put! My bump is measuring on the 90th percentile for 28 weeks so if I keep it up I could be on for a bigger baby than ds2 and he was 8lb 4oz. That would be my luck my first VBAC (hope hope hope!!!) & the biggest baby yet! I know it's not an exact science though but haven't bothered buying small sizes, only 0-3 months. I'm really starting to get excited to meet him now, I just desperately want to move ASAP so that I can get the nursery ready & start to nest.

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[Dreamofpink]

Btw is anyone else getting plenty of BH? My midwife was pleased to hear that I was but my goodness they can be quite uncomfortable at times!

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[meeks32]

No, she told me to take zinc and iron 3 days a week. If it keeps happening, she may suggest iodine. Can you have iodine via diet (strawberries, potatoes, etc.), or is it not the same amount?

Zinc and iron would sway heavier boy, but I'm sure she has far more detail about your situation than I do. I trust her.

Iodine is possible via diet (iodised salt) but obviously salt isn't a girl sway so taking iodine is safer and easier. I got the I folic ones that had folic and iodine only.

FYI I was super anaemic and had to take iron too, whenever i missed it i almost fainted, but made sure it was low dose and no other vitamins as iron supps often have vit c and other things.

[bunnywabbit]

Bunnywabbit, have you got an appt to discuss your results further? I have no idea of the implications of a low thyroid level. I really hope that it's easy to sort & you get a bfp very soon. Hugs x

I'm going to try and have a word with my gp tomorrow and see what she recommends me do between now and November, not sure if she can go into long term treatments until results in November, although I could be wrong... Hoping there's something I can do to maintain a problem free pregnancy rather than going on medication, especially if it's going to take a long time to sort out.

[thehappypixi]

Dream of Pink, I'm sure he will come out fine! Mine were 8lb + and its not the weight, it's the size of the head you have to worry about lol!
My SIL would be happy either way, I don't think she has a strong desire for a boy but you never know, if and when she gets pregnant she might find it creeping in.

Shift was OK, not too many crazies! Got a new sling in the post so that always nice! I have a bit of an obsession with baby slings...!

Also, I had to do some googling last night as was a bit concerned, I'm having BH already! Definite firming and heavy feeling in my uterus, not unpleasant just made me really worried all day! But apparently not abnormal this early, had them from about 20 weeks with Lou.

[meeks32]

Is anyone else telling people IRL they swayed? I've found myself suddenly ballsy enough to say it, and so many women have been interested in what it involves, even asking for links! I was surprised at how embracing most women have been!!! No idea why I suddenly can say it, before while ttc I only told a select few friends about swaying.

Dream I had BH all through with ds 1 and 2, 'they' say its a good sign, I still went over and sadly ended in Caesarian both times. I was under the impression I couldn't try for a VBAC due to how much ds1 wrecked inside me, but my ob asked if I was considering it and he was the one who told me that!! Mind you ds2 was sideways and not moving so there was no birthing him naturally either way. I had a 48hr spine to spine labour with ds1 and was 2 weeks overdue (42 weeks) before it started. The ob said they don't induce unless there is a medical issue so I am scared I'll go over if I try for VBAC then have another massive kid (big heads!!) and end up in Caesarian either way. My emergency Caesarian with ds1 was completely botched and I felt the whole thing, they knocked me out just after he came out as I was screaming and then I was in surgery for 4hrs. I lost 1.8litres of blood and just can't risk that happening. I can't face it, but I can't stand the idea of another Caesarian either! Damned if I do, damned if I don't it seems!
There really is no nice way of getting a baby out is there!

* note the nightmare caesarian with ds1 was through public health and a different doctor, hence why I went private the second and third time. My ob is very skilled at birth and Caesarian and I love him!

[bunnywabbit]

So I called my doctor yesterday, the words she used were 'borderline low' (the other test they did at the same time was normal) - she isn't at all worried and doesn't want me to take any extra medications or supps. and doesn't want me to change my diet at all for the moment. I can carry on as normal and they'll retest me again at the end of November. She says it's still fine for me to continue to ttc. Third time lucky, maybe...

[Charlee]

Hi ladies :)

Just popping in to say hello and see how everyone is getting along... I've been suffering a bit of depression so I've been isolating myself (hence my absence from the site)... I know isolating myself doesn't help one bit, but it's the only coping mechanism I can seem to muster up.

Anyway, hope everyone is doing well... the boys are running amuck so I don't have time to go back and read through the pages but I just want you all to know I've been thinking about you and hoping everyone is getting along well :)

I'll be back later to catch up properly once I have a minute to myself ...

[Niva]

Btw is anyone else getting plenty of BH? My midwife was pleased to hear that I was but my goodness they can be quite uncomfortable at times!

Also, I had to do some googling last night as was a bit concerned, I'm having BH already! Definite firming and heavy feeling in my uterus, not unpleasant just made me really worried all day! But apparently not abnormal this early, had them from about 20 weeks with Lou.

I've been getting many more BH this time than I remember having at this stage last time. Dream, I forgot to ask my midwife at my last visit whether I should try to limit them (put up my feet when I feel too many, etc) -- but maybe they're a good thing despite being uncomfortable? Why do you think your OB was pleased? Pixi, I was definitely getting them by 14 weeks this time around too, though I don't remember them that early last time. My midwife says they can start as early as the first trimester! She didn't seem concerned, but suggested keeping really well hydrated, since dehydration can cause them.

Meeks, I would be telling a lot more people about having swayed, too, if I knew it had worked for me! It's a lot harder to talk about it favorably when the dice haven't fallen in your favor, or if you don't know the outcome yet. Swaying probably still upped your chances no matter what the ultimate outcome was, but it's easier to talk about a theory with personal supporting evidence than a theory that your personal evidence doesn't visibly support. If you had ended up in the other 34% (or whatever the opposites stats are at the moment), maybe it would be a little harder to reveal that you had tried it...? Have a lot of you gals with opposites told people that you swayed? AFM I haven't... Just a few good girlfriends and my DH know, not even my Mom. I think my SIL will be ttc within the next year or so, and I am pretty sure she would love a girl, but I still haven't found the right moment to even mention to her that she could have any effect on making that happen. I think if I end up with a girl I'll have a lot more courage to bring it up. :)

And to that end... Tomorrow is my big scan day. I'm nervous! I will breathe a sigh of relief when the anatomy scan turns out normal, and just as much, I am on pins and needles about whether I'll get any gender clues -- or even find out the whole deal -- tomorrow. I am nearly to the point, mentally, where I am resigned and ready to find out if it's a boy. I thought it would take me much more of the pregnancy before I got tired of thinking of it as just a genderless baby, but I think I'm nearly there now. The kicks constantly remind me that there is a real little person in there, and the nesting urges just make me want to know who he or she is! I'm stalling on buying baby stuff, getting the nursery ready, even knitting cute things because it would be so much better to not have to stick to unisex. I can't believe I'm wavering on staying team green, but we'll see what tomorrow brings. I can't say I won't have one good cry if it is a boy, but I am more and more able to picture myself being ultimately happy with a DS2. I know it WILL be possible as long as I don't let myself get bogged down by thinking about how a girl would have been different. After all, if he turns out anything like my DS1, I'll be so lucky to have two of those amazing little creatures!

Anyone else getting more firm on a name for your new one yet? I think we finally found a boy name we would be okay with, although it didn't pop out at us as "the one" so we'll keep our eyes open for better. Having a good name option makes me feel much more ready to get excited about another little boy. Girl names, on the other hand, are still a tangle of possibilities... I like too many!

[Niva]

I did knit one thing so far... A hat and booties out of gender-neutral teal green and yellow yarn. :) 14091

[Tree]

I did knit one thing so far... A hat and booties out of gender-neutral teal green and yellow yarn. :) 14091

Amazing! Is it hard to learn? If love to be able to make something for the baby!!!

[Emily]

Wow Niva that is Brilliant! i could bake a hat and booties but never knit them:)

ladies I have finally made up my mind and am going back to the Uk to deliver. A lady here just put it all in perspective - in a few years you won't regret going back but if you stay and something goes wrong you will regret it forever.

I will hate being away from DS1and DH but they are going to come over for 6 weeks too so we will get to spend Christmas New Year and everyone's birthdays together.

[I Love Ladybugs]

Charlee...you have been through so much, it is no wonder you feel the way you do....lots of love and hugs for you!!! I know the feeling of retreating....do reach out...we love you and your sweet little men! How have your appts been? How is your cervix holding up?

Bunnywabbit....I would ttc and press on with that knowledge. In fact, the cycle that I got and stayed preggo was following the HSG, but before we had met with the OB/GYN who was doing the rest of the run-ups!! He had nothing to offer at that appt....and it turned out that listening to my instincts with low dose ASA was what I needed or so it seems...in the 3 pregnancies that I have taken low dose ASA daily and then weaned off it slowly, have been my sticky pregnancies. Take the supplements you feel that you need!!!

Meeks...to answer your question....I have told so few of the changes I made. The funny thing is that when I was about 14 weeks preggo, I went to my hairdresser and we got to talking about gender. She has 2 boys and figured that if my running and diet gave me a girl, she would be trying to get her new man thinking he wanted to try for a girl!! Lol, I need to go for another cut soon, so I can update her with all the dramatic tales!! Otherwise, I don't really say much, it did go either way and while I feel that my odds were upped with doing something vastly different with both diet and exercise, it still was not up to me to choose gender.

Niva...cute knitting!! I am currently working on some embroidery for all of my kids, I will post when I get home from this trip, so you all can see how much I did. What I am making is 5 inch squares for a quilt....each child will have 7 of these mingled with many multicolour and patterned cotton material squares. If you do find out boy, you will most likely feel as I did with DS2....down for a bit, then gradually come around...and when he is here, realize how much you NEEDED him!!! My DS2 is my little sonshine...I am so missing on him this trip and I just saw him yesterday. He is my DS1 sidekick, the puzzle piece that would have been absent had he not been part of our lives....I do love him so much!!!!!!!!

Emily...like I said on the other thread...I am so happy that you are going back to the UK for her birth...it will give you peace and maybe you and a certain other awesome girl in this thread can meet on up!!!!! Or two...happy pixi and dream will be giving birth to their cuties round that time...ok, Happypixi will be still preggo, but getting cuter and more rounded with each week!!

Happypixi...not too many crazies, you sound like me! I am so counting down the weeks and patients until the start of mat. leave...I have 4 days at my second job which always includes a few of the insane!!!! My BH are brought on my stress....I do keep well hydrated, but if there is crap going on at work or at home, I feel it in terms of contractions...mostly BH.

[Niva]

Ladybugs, I love how you feel bout your DS2!! I know I'll feel the same way if I have one too. :)

I didn't get any more gender clues at the scan today. :( They told me when to look away, and I did, and now I have an envelope... Well, we'll see how long until I feel the need and feel prepared to open it! My DH said he peeked a little, but he didn't know what to look for (unlike me who would recognize a boy or girl potty shot in a split second). He did say there was nothing obviously sticking out, so that makes me pretty optimistic. Although as far as I know he wouldn't recognize it if he did see it, because ultrasounds looks pretty different than in real life. My intuition is telling me girl, and has been for the last month or so, but I really don't know if I can trust it!!!!
14116
All else is well with my little baby. The anatomy scan came out perfectly normal, and measurements were right on target. The placenta is touching the edge of the cervix, though, which should hopefully resolve as the uterus grows... Anyone else have placenta previa (or partial)? I haven't had any bleeding, and they just told me not to exercise and not to DTD. Hope it moves up and away because I am really hoping for an uncomplicated natural birth!

[I Love Ladybugs]

Niva...I would save that envelope and open it on Thanksgiving! You have an amazing little one in there and that is much to be thankful for!!!!!! Great job on staying team green for right now....and what a cute little baby!!!!

[myrainbowgirl]

Niva - Nothing sticking out is a great sign!! And I like Ladybugs' idea...open at Thanksgiving! I had a low-lying placenta with DS1, very close to the cervix, and it moved up. Yours probably will, too! ADORABLE hat and booties, by the way!

Meeks - No, I've hardly told anyone I swayed. Much harder to say something when it didn't work. I did tell my parents and sister, and very generally a couple close friends, but that's it. Isn't your big scan coming up pretty soon?

Emily - Answered on the other thread. Yay for your decision!

Ladybugs - Also answered on the other thread. Good luck at your appointments! Will be praying!

Happypixi - Glad the crazies have been few...lol! Hope you're doing well!

AFM - Not much to report. Next appointment is Sept. 30th...my big ultrasound. Can't believe how fast it's going!

[Niva]

Emily, I bet you feel relieved about your decision. I think it is a wise one for the long term, as you say. And it's very good, too, that you can be among family and friends over the holidays! Do you have video-call capability for keeping in touch with your sons while you're in the UK without them? How long will that be, again? I know it isn't the same, but we FaceTime or Skype daily with my parents, and weekly with DH's parents, and it really makes a difference for DS feeling connected to them.

Rainbow, glad to hear you had no issues with your placenta and it resolved on its own. I guess it is very likely to move up, but it is still one more thing to worry about. On the other hand, maybe it'll get me extra scans, tee hee!

Thanks for the nice feedback on the knitting, everyone! I learned to knit after DS was born, from another new mom, and it isn't that hard to pick up. Internet video tutorials are key -- and free on YouTube. I bet you could learn pretty quickly, Tree! And Ladybugs, be sure and post your embroidered quilt squares when you are done... so fun to see crafts made for the LOs.

Pixi -- hope you don't have too many more shifts to put up with! When does your maternity leave start? And when is your next big scan -- and are you still sticking to team green?

Charlee, hugs to you. I can empathize deeply. But we're here for you! Try not to think about the "what ifs" and stay in the moment... That's what helped me most to get over my GD last time. But it did take time.

I like the idea of opening the envelope on Thanksgiving, too. If I can hold out that long, that is! Now that I have basically made peace with having a DS2, I just want to know... And my girl intuition is killing me with hope! I have another scan in three weeks to check up on the placenta, so i'll at least wait to see if I can get more clues then. I like clues. Clues are way better than black or white answers, haha.

[Dreamofpink]

Aargh! Restless legs are driving me mad every night, please can anyone help with some advice?!!! It's keeping poor DH & me awake & have no idea how to treat it.

Sorry for the lack of personals, I'll be back in the morning to chat more provided my legs let me sleep ;)

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[I Love Ladybugs]

Dream...I wish that I had some magic remedy for RLS or for that matter, all the stuff that keeps us preggos awake. May you be blessed with sweet sleep tonight and wake up refreshed!!!!

[Dreamofpink]

Aww thanks Ladybugs. Will be thinking of you tomorrow. Hope it all goes well x

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[meeks32]

Aargh! Restless legs are driving me mad every night, please can anyone help with some advice?!!! It's keeping poor DH & me awake & have no idea how to treat it.

Sorry for the lack of personals, I'll be back in the morning to chat more provided my legs let me sleep ;)

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No advice, but I am the same! Just started with the insomnia too. Sigh!

[meeks32]

Ladybugs, good luck tomorrow, Charlee, I replied on the long termers thread. Anyone else, apologies I'm barely managing to read everything let alone post, but I'm loving keeping up with you all. X

AFM my big scan is in 1 week. Hoping like mad no doodle grew in the past few weeks. Haha

[Tree]

Aargh! Restless legs are driving me mad every night, please can anyone help with some advice?!!! It's keeping poor DH & me awake & have no idea how to treat it.

Sorry for the lack of personals, I'll be back in the morning to chat more provided my legs let me sleep ;)

Sent from my LG-E400 using Tapatalk 2

I suffer with restless legs too. I did in my last pregnancy as well. Anyway I read that eating two bananas before bed helps, and its does a bit.
But the way I properly combat it is, my DH gives me a foot massage in bed every night before I go to sleep. It's a miracle cure!!
Restless legs syndrome is like some kind of torture, I so sympathise!

[Dreamofpink]

Charlee, been thinking of you. No-one should have to go through what you have, it's so unfair! I really hope that everything is okay for now with your cervix. You're one strong lady & I hope that you have plenty of support irl. We're always here for you x x x

Niva, glad that baby's doing well - gorgeous pic! I really hope that your placenta rises nicely for you. I think that envelope would give me no peace until I opened it. GL!

HappyPixi, are you working full-time? Hope you're getting plenty of rest! How long is now until you find out the gender?

Ladybugs, I pm'd you but you know that you're in my thoughts. I'm keeping everything crossed for you & your darling girl. x x

Meeks, how's your work going? It sounds as if you're one busy lady too! Hope you get time for rest too & pg niggles aren't giving you too many restless nights.

Emily, I think your decision sounds very wise. Will you use the NHS? That time apart from your family will be hard but will quickly become a distant memory once you're back together & completed by your little girl.

Bunnywabbit, I really hope that you have a sticky bfp VERY soon! It must be so frustrating for you. Big hugs x x

Myrainbowgirl, glad everything's going well for you. At least you can enjoy your big US without the dread of hearing pink/blue hanging over you. I know you'll just adore every minute of seeing your special little man! Does everyone irl know about him or will you tell after your US?

Tree, thanks for the advice. Sorry to hear that you have RLS too! I've never had it before, urgh. You're very lucky having your DH do that every night. Last night I was wishing that my DH was on night shift so that I wasn't keeping him awake with my tossing & turning. I felt so guilty when he had to get up early this morning with next to no sleep. He was very sweet about it though & told me it wasn't my fault.

Hope I haven't missed anyone out!

Thanks for the responses re. the restless legs issue I had last night. I sat up until nearly 2am and my legs were still driving me mad! I finally fell asleep & my legs feel like I've been running this morning. I shall try eating bananas - I'll try anything!! I know it really doesn't help that I've been busy helping DH pack up our house over the last week or so. We're hoping to move on 11th October now. After a very long summer of being messed around by buyers we're now further down the line with this set than the last 2. The only problem is that I'll be 32 weeks when we move & we have to decorate each bedroom before we move in. We'll stay with my parents for a week or so, but I'm just desperate to be settled & start nesting! I'm going to make a start here by washing all the little baby clothes & packing them away in a suitcase with nappies etc - kind of like a portable wardrobe/hopsital bag just in case this one decides to join us earlier rather than later. I don't think he will but with one ds born at 30 weeks & one at 40 I have to be prepared! I haven't stopped & have been getting a few BH a day which I never had with either ds. My midwife thought it was a good sign that my body's preparing & good news for a vba2c. I really hope so. I feel so much stronger with this pg & am a lot more confident that my body will do as it's supposed to. I really hope I'm right! :)

[I Love Ladybugs]

Quick update.....

Although I did not see the doctor I will tomorrow at the appt, the echo went well...."indistinguishable from normal"!!!!!! And the left kidney still looks good, but the right kidney has obvious big cysts on the top....and the bladder was making them puzzled. Don't think it is a big deal, but not sure yet :)

I will be happy tomorrow to hear similar words from those doctors....just a matter of chilling out and waiting.

[thehappypixi]

Sounding good bug!

Dream I moved last pregnancy, I so wanted tone settled, no where near! Lou was ten days early and my planned homebirth got shelved due to lack of curtains and furnishing lol!

I am working two nights a week now, cannot wait to leave - 22nd December, counting the shifts!

I know this is a bit mental, but I'm wavering on finding out the gender, because of a dream! I dreamt I told everyone it was a boy, and I was fine with it, excited! And now I've started feeling the little flippy flappy fish movements, it's feeling less and less important! I'm going to see how I feel on the day, but it's not til 23rd October so got a while to change my mind again!
My SIL will be finding out what she's having, that may influence me but I defo want her to find out first!

[I Love Ladybugs]

Today was not exactly as I would have planned it...lol, I got lost on the walk, gave a few extra miles on my legs and had to run part of the way. I am so sore thanks to that...I was just lucky with how late they were with the appts.

The first appt. was a blow...we had been talking VBAC/hometown, now because they want a pediatrician to assess in the first 24 hours, I should be delivering her in the "big city" about an hour away. The problem I see is winter weather....and the scary side of it if that is when I begin labour and if I can get there in time. It would be safer to be in my own hospital with what is needed than on the highway!!

That specialist would not listen to any of my concerns, told me what she felt I needed to "know" to be "informed" and then waltzed out of the room. Talk about not making it any easier...I at least have a week before my visit with my MD to get a feel on all of this.

The second appt basically stated what I already know....and for the hours of waiting, vs 10 mins being seen made for a less than fruitful visit. But he was nice and considerate....liked his approach! And he did let me know a little more of the long term part of the upper pole in terms of options like surgery vs. monitoring. The best news of the day is that my next scan takes place in the "big" city an hour away at 33 weeks...just as I am on mat. leave! Makes for a much better time than being away from my boys for 5 days at a time. :)

Now just for a day on the road tomorrow and home to my boys!! I can't wait to snuggle them!!!

[Niva]

Good news, Ladybugs! Sorry for the logistical complications, though, and the unhelpful doctors. But at the end of the day, it sounds like they all expect your little one will be with you safe and sound one way or another. :)

[Niva]

Well, DH and I felt ready to open our envelope last night. It's a boy! Surprisingly, I am really very okay with that. No tears at all, no worries... I feel like this one was just meant to be, and he is who he is. No changing that at this point, and he will be very well loved. However... We are seriously considering HT for #3! Knowing that we are going to do everything we can to complete our family later really helps, and makes this little guy nothing but a welcome bonus. I want to experience having my dg, and three is a perfect number of kids for us... and having a brother first will be really, really good for DS1. So, I'm okay. I can't say there is no disappointment that it will have to take longer and be harder/more expensive to get my girl, but I am still just as excited about having this new little boy first. :)

[I Love Ladybugs]

Niva...you are going to have your perfect family!! I know that my DS2 is what we needed and I wish that I would have had as much grace as you....I did shed some tears when he was still inside...but he lights up our life in ways that are amazing!!!! Congrats on a sweet little boy!!!!!!!!!

AFM...almost ready to make the bus trip home....tired and worn out, I found out last night that a friend of a friend's one little twin died while she is still preggo...my heart feels so heavy for her. She was collecting blue x 2 and now has to deal with so much loss...the loss of the twin dream, the loss of one of her sons.

[Emily]

Niva, i absolutely adore DS2 - in fact he is the only reason we even considered having a third.

DS1 will be over the moon too. Time to go shopping!

[Niva]

Thank you, Emily and Ladybugs! I keep hearing again and again, from girls on this site and in real life, that having two boys is really such a special thing, that the brother-brother dynamic is just irreplaceable. As long as I don't have to give up all future hope of experiencing a daughter, there's no reason to attach any regrets to this baby. It didn't work out as perfectly as I'd hoped (I did sway, after all!), but I've decided that there's absolutely no reason I can't be very, very happy the way things are. Now I can nest and decorate and buy baby boy things! And this time, I'm getting myself the girliest, prettiest diaper bag out there, because it's for me, not the baby!!

Rainbow, so sorry to hear about your friend. I wish her strength and recovery, and may that never happen to any of us. Puts things in perspective, doesn't it?

[myrainbowgirl]

Niva - Congratulations on DS2!! Did you sway? I can't remember. Your attitude is awesome, and glad that you and DH are willing to do the HT journey. Not sure I am brave enough! At this point I am willing to risk DS5 than go HT...of course, that could change. :) I won't sway, except some (but not extreme) changes to my diet. Would love to have a little oopsie, no trying at all...we'll see how that goes, lol. Anyway, happy for you...congrats again!

Ladybugs - Sorry for the non-helpful doctors and appointments. Glad you get to see your little lady at 33 weeks! I'm assuming they'll be able to get a better look at her then. Will continue to pray! Enjoy your babies when you get home. :)

Pixi - How are you feeling about team green?? Your scan is next week, right?

AFM - My big scan got moved to next Wed, the 25th. Doc had to reschedule. Looking forward to seeing little boy, hoping it helps me to bond with him...still feeling somewhat disconnected from this pregnancy, in part because of GD, but also since I am barely feeling any movement, due to anterior placenta.

I find myself feeling more at peace about this LO, so glad that time heals. I know he will be such a special addition to our family, and I am looking forward to see how he fits in, who he looks like, and what his personality is like. :) I'm also feeling more at peace about a fifth...I think big families are wonderful. I've witnessed it firsthand...my dad is from a family of 5 kids. They have so much fun together, and there is lots of love and laughter. It will be worth it for a DD! Of course, if we go natural, I know it's a possibility that it will be DS5, and not sure how I'd handle it. Right now, I just have to trust that God really is behind all the rainbows. I could of course end up deciding that my GD is what fueled all that, and that we'll need to go HT, or just pray that God does indeed want us to have a daughter and trust Him to bring her to us. We're already praying He does! :)

[Charlee]

Hi ladies! I'm still here, lurking around occasionally and taking on life on life's terms!

Niva congrats on your little boy! Brothers are truly special and I was thrilled at having DS2 for DS1! I think the GD doesn't really set in big time until #4, 5, 6 LOL... maybe some ladies will agree with me! :)

I hope everyone is doing okay ... I think you ladies often as I started this crazy journey with you all and it's slowly coming to an end for me... 3rd trimester finally! I'm just thankful to still be pregnant and having a healthy baby. He's getting a lot bigger by the day and I must be to that uncomfortable stage of pregnancy where strangers smile uncomfortably at me! LMAO

[Tree]

Niva, you have such a great outlook and won't be disappointed. As the other girls have said having two boys is delightful. I love watching my two, my heart is constantly melting. It's a truly special dynamic.

So when does the 3rd trimester start then? Can't believe we are there/getting close so soon, I don't know about you girls but this pregnancy has flown by so far...

[Dreamofpink]

Charlee, I know I can't believe we're in the third trimester either!! It's absolutely flown by. I'm so glad you're still here with me, your little boy's getting stronger every day! Are you still on bed rest? It's scary seeing the ladies in the Oct/Nov DD threads getting ready to meet their babies, it'll not be long until it's us. I'm 29 weeks today, once I get to 31 weeks with no sign of PET I'll breath a sigh of relief! I can't imagine the chaos it would cause if this one wanted to come at 30 weeks, we're up to our knees in boxes & preparing to move house 3 weeks tomorrow. :nails:

Niva, huge congrats on ds2! I know everyone else has said it but brothers have such a wonderful bond. I had my worst GD with ds2 and he really is my most adorable, cuddly little mummy's boy. He's also been the making of ds1. I hope you have your DD to look forward to. The words I remember uttering to DH & a neighbour when ds1 was a baby have come back to haunt me now "we'll just keep going until I get my girl!" I never for one second thought that'd be the case :wink:

[Dreamofpink]

Mmmmm, btw I think ds3 enjoys Ben & Jerry's Karamel Sutra as much as me - he's dancing away! Yum yum :wink:

[Mathilde]

I posted in the wrong forum: Due des, jan, febr.
Am back, scan in 1 hr, feeling doomed.. It didn´t help staying away from you guys.. Glad you all are well:)

Here goes nothing, and my dream will fly past me without stopping...
Mathilde

[Dreamofpink]

Best of luck Matilde. If anyone deserves their dg after the road you've travelled it's you! Will be thinking of you. Enjoy seeing your beautiful baby & we'll be here one way or the other when you get back :heart:

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[Waiting4Daisy]

Congrats on ds2 Niva! Two boys is really so cute xxx

[Mathilde]

Thank you Dreamof, I posted in the wrong forum again.. in the opposites thread i think.. if not the des, jan, febr one.. typical. I do love my boy. Which is great, but sooo low now.
Mathilde

[bunnywabbit]

Iloveladybugs, I'm glad all was well with your scan. How are you feeling?

Niva, congrats on your little man! Sorry you didn't hear pink. Determined little guy! Hoping the pregnancy is going well.

Hoping everyone is well and pregnancies are happy and healthy.

AFM I'm 12 DPO and have had no symptoms whatsoever which is a little strange as I'd normally have some symptoms even if they're AF related. DTD late in the cycle this time (unlucky timing at 2DPO) so really not holding my breath. Not going to POAS until AF is late or just before I start the next lot of supps (just as precaution). Funnily enough, I'm fine about it - CD1 soon so can start over. Maybe next time, right?

[bunnywabbit]

CD1 for me today. New 'due date' calculated. Bring it on!

[Dreamofpink]

Bunnywabbit, I'm glad that you're starting anew - nothing more frustrating than waiting for a cycle that you know hasn't worked out to end! Rooting for you this month all the way!! :fx:

Has anyone been getting cravings yet? I've noticed a real preference for hot curries over the last few weeks. I just want spicy food! I like it anyway but this is more than usual. It's not quite at craving level yet but I do think about curry for tea a lot ;) I was hoping to use hot curry as a way to kick start labour but I'll have to eat ridiculously hot curries for that if I'm already yearning for a madras. Eek!

I remember not being able to start the day without downing a pint of milk at this stage with ds2. Just interested to find out if anyone else has any cravings?! :)

Sent from my LG-E400 using Tapatalk 2

[Charlee]

Mathilde - Congrats on a healthy baby boy! The GD will get easier... I PROMISE. (God, I've had to say that too many times on this thread!)

Be easy on yourself and give yourself time to greive. Everything you are feeling is perfectly normal and we ALL had those thoughts, even if we didn't say them out loud :)

[Charlee]

Dream - I am having the EXACT same cravings! Spicy curries, Chinese food, you name it! Haha I had totally different cravings with each pregnancy, and what I crave tends to dictate how much weight I gain LOL... with DS1 it was cheeseburgers and donuts and I gained 60 lbs! Haha DS2 was salad and pasta and i gained about 30. This time it's spicy anything and despite gaining so much early on, I'm only up 16 lbs at this point because I lost so much after my car accident :( I'm working on fattening up though :)

[Mathilde]

I'm craving plums, apples(fresh home grown, not imported) and nectarines.. Very healthy:) and he has a name: Edward James:) knitting a yellow blanket for him now:) and DH said that he only wants me happy, so open for negotiations on the future! I can breath again!

[I Love Ladybugs]

I'm craving plums, apples(fresh home grown, not imported) and nectarines.. Very healthy:) and he has a name: Edward James:) knitting a yellow blanket for him now:) and DH said that he only wants me happy, so open for negotiations on the future! I can breath again!


That is great to read that your hubby is open to HT again....I so want you to enjoy the little man within you and your future daughter when it is her time. Makes me weepy reading this update...but in the good way!!!! You are going to so love a bonus baby...I know that my DS2 is just that :)

[meeks32]

Ladybugs I agree, if ds2 was a girl we would have stopped at 2, and I always wanted a big family so I'm thrilled (and terrified, lol) to have 3! Mathilde I am so glad your dh is open to more, remember in 2 years time he is going to be even more open when baby is getting easier and he sees how ds1 and ds2 play together.

Dream my cravings haven't been full blown but I sort of just wanted different things with each pregnancy. With ds1 it was fresh fruit and veg, and I couldn't stomach meat. With ds2 it was plain fatty foods, like pasta with cheese on top and so on. With this one it was fruit at the start but that could have been LE catch up since I was so low nutrient for so long. I went off meat but again who knows what LE did there, I only recently started handling it again. Big difference this time is SUGAR. I want it ALL the time!!! I am so not a sugar person usually so that's very different to my other pregnancies. I'm trying to curb it because I'm scared the glucose test will fail if I keep indulging!!!

[Niva]

Ladybugs and Meeks, I'm feeling the same about a bonus kid... Pretty scared about the jump from 2 to 3, but determined to ttc my girl no matter what after this little man is at least 1yo! Those of you with three already, please tell me that going from 2 to 3 doesn't make you into a huge stressball (apart from the sleepless nights, which are par for the course but always get better eventually)? I have only ever until about half a year ago (when I started swaying and realized I could get an opposite) pictured myself with two kids, a pigeon pair, so now I need to envision three being the new ideal. I know I'll love DS2 so very much that I will question pushing him into the middle child role, but right now I am determined to blindly push ahead for my dg regardless of consequences...

[myrainbowgirl]

Niva - My hardest adjustment was definitely from 1-2. 2-3 wasn't bad at all! You will be just fine, and of course, it being your DD will make it that much more worth it!

Mathilde - YAY that DH is open to #4!! So happy for you. My DH being open to #5 is one of the things that has really helped me to feel ok about this little boy. And love the name!!

Cravings - With DS1 it was full-fat salad dressing, chocolate-covered oreos, and terra chips. SO weird! But when I think about all those things, they are just high-fat foods. DS2 was fruit. Not really any huge cravings with DS3. This time, I want bacon, and cheesy and spicy foods...mmmm. I gotta be careful I don't indulge too much...might gain WAAAY more than I intend to!

[Charlee]

I'm craving plums, apples(fresh home grown, not imported) and nectarines.. Very healthy:) and he has a name: Edward James:) knitting a yellow blanket for him now:) and DH said that he only wants me happy, so open for negotiations on the future! I can breath again!

My little guy is going to be Edward Lee! Edward after my father and Lee after Dh :) That is very cool Mathilde :)

[meeks32]

Loving all your names ladies. I had my imaginary boy named already, his name would have been Caspian. If our dd somehow grows a penis by Tuesday, that's still our boy name. If not, she's Lexi. I have had a few people lately give me a slightly negative reaction to that though so now I'm stressing!

Mum said "oh but she will get called sexy Lexi" and I was like, well that's probably not the worst most insulting nickname I've ever heard, and everyone seems to get some nickname in school.

[Niva]

Rainbow -- thank you for your vote of confidence!!! It has been keeping me up at night, the question of whether I'm making an irrational choice just in order to shut out the GD I know I'd feel if I thought DS2 was my last. But you are right, #3 should be a breeze because I simply won't mind whatever hardships she puts me through! :)

As for cravings, both times I've craved protein. Last time, I craved red meat. I was also hungry ALL the time. I gained 35 lbs. This time, I started the pregnancy craving dairy, mostly yogurt, milk, and cheese -- likely because of the LE diet -- and now I'm having an awfully hard time staying away from the baked goods. Trying to force myself to eat a balanced diet, but I'm still afraid of not passing the glucose test in 10 weeks... and I don't even want to step on a scale! I am 100% crossed over into maternity clothing at this point. :)

Wish this thread was still in the dream members section so we could share bump photos with a little more privacy. ;) Mine has recently become its own entity!

[Niva]

Meeks, just saw your post. I LOVE your choice of Lexi!!! My DS is named Leo, and we are leaning towards Alexander for this one, but would call him Alex (dh's choice) or Lex (my choice). I think Lexi is a very strong name.

[thehappypixi]

Big family party today, Marks Grandmothers 90th... how many 'are you hoping for a girl' 's' am I going to get?! :(

Best answers please so I can reel them off....!

Want to avoid saying 'god no, can't stand them!' Just to make them STFU. Don't want to piss Mark off too much!

[GeCon]

I always say "We don't really mind either way." with a graceful smile. :)

[meeks32]

I kept saying (when we thought this was a boy): "I hope not, there's something really special about 3 boys, I'm starting my own football team"

[Tree]

Just say 'either would be lovely, if its another boy I get to be the only girl in the family which is pretty special, and if its a girl I'll have a little girl companion. So long as they are healthy, that's all I care about'. Good Luck!

[Emily]

Rainbow -- thank you for your vote of confidence!!! It has been keeping me up at night, the question of whether I'm making an irrational choice just in order to shut out the GD I know I'd feel if I thought DS2 was my last. But you are right, #3 should be a breeze because I simply won't mind whatever hardships she puts me through! :)

As for cravings, both times I've craved protein. Last time, I craved red meat. I was also hungry ALL the time. I gained 35 lbs. This time, I started the pregnancy craving dairy, mostly yogurt, milk, and cheese -- likely because of the LE diet -- and now I'm having an awfully hard time staying away from the baked goods. Trying to force myself to eat a balanced diet, but I'm still afraid of not passing the glucose test in 10 weeks... and I don't even want to step on a scale! I am 100% crossed over into maternity clothing at this point. :)

Wish this thread was still in the dream members section so we could share bump photos with a little more privacy. ;) Mine has recently become its own entity!


Ha ha so has mine! I stepped on the scales yesterday and was pleasantly surprised that i was only my normal adult weight. Then i remembered that i had lost about 12kg on the LE diet LOL. Glucose test this week - any way of cheating?!!

[Charlee]

Meeks, just saw your post. I LOVE your choice of Lexi!!! My DS is named Leo, and we are leaning towards Alexander for this one, but would call him Alex (dh's choice) or Lex (my choice). I think Lexi is a very strong name.

My DS1 name is Alexzander! DH threw the "z" into his name on his birth certificate and I've been irritated ever since because he has NOTHING with his real spelling on it! haha... even at school most teachers leave it out... it's going to cause mass confusion once he turns 18 and has legal documents spelled wrong... LMAO

[Charlee]

Pixi - I've talked about this in the opposites thread, but I'll say it here too! If you say it first, no one can say anything you haven't said yourself, know what I mean? So I have said countless times "Yes I was very much hoping for a girl but I've got another rowdy boy on the way! My house is going to be crazy and fun and I can't imagine it any other way!" And most people smile, agree and move on. Because I have already said everything they were going to say! I also throw in "I will probably keep having children until I have a girl..." so that ends that question right there too.

If you acknowledge the elephant in the room, then people are somewhat relieved... it's a strange phenomenon. Meeks can attest to this... she read a comment I posted to my sister on FB yesterday about this exact thing! My sister drives me nuts sometimes LOL

Good luck at your party :)

[Dreamofpink]

Charlee, I wish I had your brazen attitude! It's the confidence I lack in so don't sound like I mean it, probably because sometimes I don't :hide: I'm fine with people I don't know or those who knew nothing about my GD & sway. It's just those that knew about it who I have trouble with. In fact a lot of them don't even refer to the baby or my pregnancy. I know they feel awkward but I bet a fair few of them are thinking 'serves her right, thinking she could try & influence things!' Ah well, they are strangers to GD so tried their best to understand but I've learned to keep it to myself now. Besides I know I have a lot to learn from this LO and honestly can't wait to meet him!

Niva, my ds1's middle name is Alexander. It's a lovely name! We're definitely leaning towards Isaac for this one & I really love Amias for the middle name. It means 'loved' & also Maia was my chosen name for this one if he was a girl, so it's a kind of nod to that too.

[meeks32]

Pixi - I've talked about this in the opposites thread, but I'll say it here too! If you say it first, no one can say anything you haven't said yourself, know what I mean? So I have said countless times "Yes I was very much hoping for a girl but I've got another rowdy boy on the way! My house is going to be crazy and fun and I can't imagine it any other way!" And most people smile, agree and move on. Because I have already said everything they were going to say! I also throw in "I will probably keep having children until I have a girl..." so that ends that question right there too.

If you acknowledge the elephant in the room, then people are somewhat relieved... it's a strange phenomenon. Meeks can attest to this... she read a comment I posted to my sister on FB yesterday about this exact thing! My sister drives me nuts sometimes LOL

Good luck at your party :)

THAT WAS YOUR SISTER TELLING US NOT TO BLAME PREGNANCY FOR EVERY ISSUE? She's a bitch. IMHO. I had to restrain myself for the sake of piece!

Ps agree wholeheartedly with the above acknowledging the elephant thing. I also use this tactic when people start telling me I'm mad for having 3. Or I say "yes, I'm pregnant again, third and FINAL" which shuts down the how many will you have conversation before it starts. Questions annoy me!

[I Love Ladybugs]

Sorry for being so spotty here this weekend....had to make the hubby work on his shed in between his shifts! Hard to do that....but someone has to crack the whip and not let him watch his tv shows!!!

Cravings :shemademe: Totally blaming baby for wanting maple walnut icecream, walnuts/pecans, cheesebread, steak!!!!

Bonus baby.....We all know that I cuddle him and thank God so much for making me wait for my girl, because my DS2 lights my world. Example...coming back from this last trip, he just wants me home and holding him....and when we were working on the shed, he came out just to give me more hugs and steal my pink coat to wear!!!!

Names/nicknames....Pick the name you want...don't let anyone bully you out of your fav. name. In fact, I refuse to say our girl choice to anyone, I wish that DH would not have allowed his sister to even see it once in print. Other than that, there is only a few people in this world who know her name. My boy name was Levi Orion :) this baby was called that by 4 weeks!!!

Charlee....If I had a hubby that was on board to keep on going til we "got the girl", I would totally be filling my van and house!! I hope that you, Dream, Mathilde, Rainbow, and Niva all enjoy your current little man, because your wee girls are next in line!!!!

AFM...I am waiting until Wed. with my MD until I really think more of this last appt in Vancouver. I am choosing to just enjoy her moving around and cuddles with my boys.

[Niva]

Pixi - I've talked about this in the opposites thread, but I'll say it here too! If you say it first, no one can say anything you haven't said yourself, know what I mean? So I have said countless times "Yes I was very much hoping for a girl but I've got another rowdy boy on the way! My house is going to be crazy and fun and I can't imagine it any other way!" And most people smile, agree and move on. Because I have already said everything they were going to say! I also throw in "I will probably keep having children until I have a girl..." so that ends that question right there too.

If you acknowledge the elephant in the room, then people are somewhat relieved... it's a strange phenomenon. Meeks can attest to this... she read a comment I posted to my sister on FB yesterday about this exact thing! My sister drives me nuts sometimes LOL

Good luck at your party :)

I like this approach, Charlee, and have used a variant of it. I don't say I'm disappointed outright, since that would just backfire and make me feel sorry for myself... But I make light of it and say "I was kind of hoping for a change of pace from all the trucks and construction vehicles, but who knows, maybe this new little one will have totally different interests from DS1. He'll have his very own temperament and personality, and I just can't wait to meet him!" And if they press, I admit that I would have liked to be able to go shopping for cute dresses, but DS1 has taught me that there's much more to children than just dressing them up -- and anyway, I make pretty darn cute boys! :P

I find that this is exactly what they expect to hear from me, so they don't need to dig any deeper. And if anyone starts talking about what I'm in for with a house full of boy traits, I can say that those traits aren't necessarily gender-specific. My DS is so much better behaved, considerate, calmer, and well-spoken than nearly all of the little girls his age that I know!

P.S. I think my extreme GD with DS1 was due to a lot of preconceptions about what boys are like, and DS1 has either proved them wrong or taught me to love those traits anyway. I still don't want to miss out on having a daughter, but having boys is NOT the second-place prize I thought it would be!

[Emily]

Niva, one look at your cutie on your avatar and most people would shut up if you said "if he is anything like his brother i will be thrilled" I mean who wouldn't be?

[thehappypixi]

It was fine, got lots of congrats and didn't have to excuse myself for my fifth helping of pudding! Only got asked once if I was hoping for a girl, and I said not particularly as my boys are the most awesome creatures ever! Fou d it more irritating that everyone seemed more excited about my sister in laws pregnancy, because she found put at 13 weeks! LOL!

[Charlee]

THAT WAS YOUR SISTER TELLING US NOT TO BLAME PREGNANCY FOR EVERY ISSUE? She's a bitch. IMHO. I had to restrain myself for the sake of piece!

Ps agree wholeheartedly with the above acknowledging the elephant thing. I also use this tactic when people start telling me I'm mad for having 3. Or I say "yes, I'm pregnant again, third and FINAL" which shuts down the how many will you have conversation before it starts. Questions annoy me!

Yes Meeks, that's my sister!!!! Wasn't she being such a bitch?? I texted her and told her as much... haha! We haven't spoken since that whole exchange and I'm quite irritated at her honestly. She has 2 daughters, which she had 5 years apart mind you, and they are both older now. Don't talk to me about GD or pregnancy!!!! Haha She never even really wanted a boy so she wasn't disappointed at all... and she didn't enjoy having babies either. She's the kind of woman who enjoys the older kids. I just couldn't believe she said that to us so I had to shut her up real fast before I got too angry! Haha

[nuthinbutpink]

Do you guys mind starting a new thread? This one is soooooooooooooooooooooo big!!

[GeCon]

As per nuthinbutpink's request, here is the new thread:

http://genderdreaming.com/forum/due-date-buddies/34616-dreaming-pink-due-date-group-ttc-beyond.html#post473088

[Niva]

Niva, one look at your cutie on your avatar and most people would shut up if you said "if he is anything like his brother i will be thrilled" I mean who wouldn't be?

Emily, you made me LOL! Those are almost word-for-word the exact same words DH said when we found out this one was a boy. :bigsmile: DS makes me glow with pride and I'm truly looking forward to having two of those little creatures.

Haha, now watch #2 turn out to be a little terror, haha, that would serve me right!

[Niva]

Oops... Will move over to the new page!