Part 7: Due December 2017, Jan Feb & Mar 2018

Also, I wanted to add this in, especially since I talk about the closeness of my family so much and I see similar bonds with friends who were raised the same way. For what it's worth, I wanted to share something about my mom. Both sides of my grandparents are holocaust survivors, lost most of their family members, and were brought up with very little. My mom has 2 brothers, one that she's close with, and one that she doesn't speak with. My dad has one brother who he also does not speak with often. I often think it was for this reason that my mom was extra sensitive to having us grow up close, especially as four girls (despite the almost 10 years between us). I can remember her constantly telling us that "we are all that we have" in this world and despite what happens in life, "we will always be there for each other no matter what". Those were recurring themes in our home, and when one sister was going through something, she gently encouraged and guided us to help one another. We all jokingly say that she brainwashed us to love each other, but she really did encourage us over and over to be there for one another. As kids, we were, but now we are closer than you could ever imagine. I'm trying to bring up my girls the same way, and would do so regardless of gender, but I wanted to pass that along in case any of you had similar (or different) upbringings. I truly believe my moms guidance formed our bond that I'm not sure would otherwise be as strong.

End of rant... :)

Max I love this! Dh and I left our very small town of 3k and moved to Baton Rouge, la for work for a short term and we debated on staying! We absolutely loved it ❤️ but we were all we had so we came back to this small town with nothing to be with family. I recently told him I'm ready to go whenever you are and he asks why now? I say we have built our own empire with 5 kids we are all we need and can raise our boys how we want. But then again we never will more than likely we're to chicken. Even though I hate the fact there's barely any jobs in Illinois and it's a very broke state right now [emoji53]


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Max! That is amazing! I truly do admire you! You are always sugar sweetheart and always so encouraging!


2003 [emoji1349]2009 [emoji1407] 2012 [emoji1406] 2015 [emoji1406] 2015 [emoji1356] 2016 [emoji1413] 2018[emoji120] for a [emoji1405][emoji166]to fit into the mix of our crazy bunch and complete our beautiful family! [emoji7]


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Quote:

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Originally Posted by maximbella

Also, I wanted to add this in, especially since I talk about the closeness of my family so much and I see similar bonds with friends who were raised the same way. For what it's worth, I wanted to share something about my mom. Both sides of my grandparents are holocaust survivors, lost most of their family members, and were brought up with very little. My mom has 2 brothers, one that she's close with, and one that she doesn't speak with. My dad has one brother who he also does not speak with often. I often think it was for this reason that my mom was extra sensitive to having us grow up close, especially as four girls (despite the almost 10 years between us). I can remember her constantly telling us that "we are all that we have" in this world and despite what happens in life, "we will always be there for each other no matter what". Those were recurring themes in our home, and when one sister was going through something, she gently encouraged and guided us to help one another. We all jokingly say that she brainwashed us to love each other, but she really did encourage us over and over to be there for one another. As kids, we were, but now we are closer than you could ever imagine. I'm trying to bring up my girls the same way, and would do so regardless of gender, but I wanted to pass that along in case any of you had similar (or different) upbringings. I truly believe my moms guidance formed our bond that I'm not sure would otherwise be as strong.

End of rant... :)

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I do something similar! I am an only child from a mom with an unmedicated personality disorder. When my children treat each other badly I tell them that being friends with your siblings is a choice. If they keep treating each other this way, one may chose not to be friends with the other anymore. How would that make you feel? They typically say sad and then they knock it off for awhile. My boys are all super close and look out for each other when not at home. I see how they will end up just as close when adults. Kids are kids and sometimes aren't nice. It's how they make-up and how they are most of the time that matters. I believe closeness of siblings is in part personalities clicking well and how the culture is at home. It also comes down to their choice and interests as they get older. Time will tell, but I see how they will continue their friendship.

My dad is from a 3 boy family and says my boys remind him of his relationship with his brothers all the time. It warms my heart and I sure hope so!


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[emoji178]Baby Girl [emoji254]EDD 9/30/2017 [emoji178]

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Nacire-I've only been through a chemical, but certainly understand those feelings of hopes and dreams for the future. I'm sure you're feeling very overwhelmed at the moment, but take care of yourself & give yourself time to grieve. You'll always wonder what could've been and never forget about this baby, but taking each day at a time & living in the moment with your kiddos will help you with the healing process. Kids have a natural way of brightening things and are good at sensing your pain. I will say a prayer for you for comfort, healing and positive things to come your way in the future. I always love the expression...after the storm comes the rainbow [emoji304]

Xx that's great. I'm going to have to start using that with my boys. The older two fight all the time and ds1 is rude and mouthy to ds2 all the time and the smaller 2 see it and repeat it. And well I could lose my mind 99% of the time and wonder why in the world am I doing this again !


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Max-that's quite impressive how you've kept yourself busy on bedrest!! Keep us posted on your OB appt. Ohhh I bet you have the cutest barely there bump!! Now I want to see a pic [emoji12]
Kat-a monogram machine?! How fun!!! Your little one is going to have the cutest personalized clothes. Love that you'll be happy either way.
Max & Kat-as you both know, I have 2 boys, but besides snacking, I've never been on the HE diet. I don't like feeling overstuffed either. When I was first preggo, I felt like a bottomless pit...which is NOT my usual! These days, I'm def feeling full a lot faster!!!! Every meal feels like Thanksgiving dinner haha.
I'm sorry I haven't popped in here as often...I've had a miserable cold, back to the busy work schedule & lots of family for the eclipse. I have to say, it was a pretty cool experience to see it go completely dark for a few minutes!! Gave me chills!! I could hear the neighbors cheering when it went dark...think there were lots of eclipse parties haha. We were in the path of totality so I was able to watch from the comfort of my front porch [emoji41]

Max-I missed your post, but sounds like you have an amazing mom who encouraged such a sweet sister bond! There's no doubt that you will pass that down to your kids as well!!!! [emoji173]

Lola I love near the country so when it was dark here I heard the locusts buzzing the birds flying and the neighbors roosters going insane lol


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Ash-cool how animals respond to the changes...animal instincts! My dog was barking like crazy!

My ob office had posted 3 gift baskets for the first three babies born during the eclipse. Got me super excited to possibly be one of the first babies in the new year if I can hold her in that long


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And I just looked at the full moon calendar and it's January 1st [emoji38]


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Eek ash!! A New Years baby!!


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As long as I can get dh to cooperate lol he says he's staying away from me [emoji23][emoji23]


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lol! Shouldn't take much to persuade him! [emoji57]guys are easy!


2003 [emoji1349]2009 [emoji1407] 2012 [emoji1406] 2015 [emoji1406] 2015 [emoji1356] 2016 [emoji1413] 2018[emoji120] for a [emoji1405][emoji166]to fit into the mix of our crazy bunch and complete our beautiful family! [emoji7]


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Very true !


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Ha ash! How cool!! What is your due date?

Awww Lola, feel better! Being sick when pregnant is awful. I feel like I'm so much more susceptible to everything lately.

Xx, love hearing that! I agree it's a choice, and also completely agree that personality is the most important factor. By the way, omg you're getting soooo close! How are you feeling?

Pbn, thinking of you, how are you?


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Quote:

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Originally Posted by maximbella

Ha ash! How cool!! What is your due date?

Awww Lola, feel better! Being sick when pregnant is awful. I feel like I'm so much more susceptible to everything lately.

Xx, love hearing that! I agree it's a choice, and also completely agree that personality is the most important factor. By the way, omg you're getting soooo close! How are you feeling?

Pbn, thinking of you, how are you?


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I'm feeling great! Nesting has kicked in so I have tons of energy all of the time. I've been having practice contractions consistently though from 4am-6am. I get so uncomfortable and have to get up and start my day. They go away when I walk my DS1 to school. I had my 34 week appointment today, and she is still measuring 2 weeks ahead! I have 3-5 weeks to go! I got a "vibe" she will come the week of the 17th. Im not sure why, but I feel strongly about that. Who knows though- she may have her own idea!


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[emoji178]Baby Girl [emoji254]EDD 9/30/2017 [emoji178]

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So excited for you xx! It's going to be so cool having a baby so little for trick or treat! Or will it be too cold where you live to take her out?


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Awwww so fun and exciting!!! I love that stage! Do you have a nursery set up? I can't wait to find out gender so I can get to work on that... [emoji847]


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Nacire – so happy to read that the messages you found here gave you some warmth and support – do feel free to come and chat with us and pour it all out! You don’t want to be left alone in this – it’s such a difficult time, truly is.
So long as there is no medical contra-indication, you should try whenever YOU feel ready – you would not be betraying this angel baby –the best gift you can give yourself and that baby is to allow life to take over – my rainbow baby was the greatest gift in our lives – she is such a delight, I am sure her angel sibling had something to do with her joining us!
You do need to let it out and allow yourself to grieve, and if that means crying yourself to sleep at night, so be it – you can tell your sons that you are sad at the moment, but it’s not because of them, and if anything, that they make you happy! Kids are such kind souls, and I am sure they will be a big part in you getting through this, and they will understand – being brave 24/7 is not doing any of you favours if that means you will break down really hard when you reach a point where you just can’t anymore :hugs: I hope that the physical pain has subsided so as not to add to the rest my lovely.

Oh this eclipse seems to be a big thing in the US! OMG look at that traffic jam Ash!!
How was it, ladies?

Max, can’t wait to hear from you after your OB appointment – and so glad you have found activities to keep you busy! It is difficult for someone that is a bit hyper to slow down, but I can see you even managed to pick up some consulting work you can do live from your bed, so score! :D
What a lovely way you were raised, I can totally see why you are so keen to have a close bond between your kids – I know that regardless of gender this 3rd bub is going to fit right in and be blessed to be part of your tribe!

Sumbal – not sure if I made a comment already but happy to see bub is healthy though sorry you didn’t hear boy – there is still a slight chance you may have your boy but agree 17 weeks is pretty accurate usually. Keep us posted!

XX – so close now – only 3 weeks and you’ll be considered term! Eeek! Am sure you mentioned this before, but did you go early with your boys?

Kat – like you I hate that being stuffed feeling but gee it’s a fine line between not feeling starving (hence nauseous) and not feeling overly full (hence nauseous) – can’t win, can we?! Lol
Like you and Max (and many others ^^), I feel like my tummy is so much bigger than last time already – especially as soon as I eat – I have had a few insistent stares on the belly at work, so not sure if it’s mean that is paranoiac or not :P I think the uterus does pop much earlier with subsequent pregnancies, it’s just not as tight in there anymore ^^ plus more often than not, girls mums are smaller framed so any little weight gain is much more obvious ;) am sure you both look stunning ^^

Lola, hope you’re better soon! Are you back at school now or not yet? I know you mentioned Labor day but no idea when that is haha

Sky are you around?? Missing you!!!

Sorry I missed a heap – one day and bam, I had to literally read in diagonal or wouldn’t had the time to read at all haha

Ok, so was initially going to do the Generation Plus NIPT but they hiked the prices to $695 as of mid-July, and I am not sure whether I can justify to pay an extra $300 just to find out about 3-4 microdeletion syndromes when we have no known risk factors.
PBN I know you did the Generation Plus, do you think it is worth it? It was probably cheaper when you did it too though :( the bonus would be results would be in faster, too, if I just did the basic NIPT as bloods are tested here in Oz, not sent to the US..choices, choices..meaning I have to make up my mind before next week as am 9 weeks this week and would love to have results asap (am just an impatient one haha).
Oh and proud mumma bear moment this weekend – my DD1 has learnt to ride her bike without the training wheels – she was beaming (and it was after I gave her a trick to start on her own that she got it, after her dad and grandpa spent 20 minutes trying to teach her to start without being pushed haha).

Mommy- It usually is a bit chilly so I may stay home with her and pass out candy. We will see though!

Max- I almost have everything ready for her. My DH needs to clear out the crib so I can dust it and get it made. Downstairs where I'll be until I get her on a schedule, I need to set up the pack n play with the newborn napper. I'm waiting until after my DS1's birthday party in 2 weeks. Other than that, I'm set!

Lola- I'll be 40 weeks in 5.5 weeks. They predict she will come in 3-5 weeks, since my DS3 came at 38w2d and she is measuring 2 weeks ahead. I've always "felt" she was going to come the week of the 17th. I can't explain it- I was the same way with my DS3 and no one believed me! She may have her own idea, but I'm wondering if she is sending me the vibes! I feel 34 weeks is bit early to start the pre-labor stuff, but maybe not if she is going to come in 3-4 weeks. I'm just over the colon cleanse already! I mean sheesh, I shouldn't have to start the bowel clearing yet [emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]! I had that happen 3 weeks before my DS3 was born. I'm over it already- 9 times in 24 hours is ridiculous [emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]!!


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Lmsm!! Yay for your dd! It's so pleasing to see them so excited and proud of themselves as well! lol I couldn't justify that much for the tests my husband would think I had gone mad. So will just opt for an elective ultrasound at 16 weeks instead. Whenever we have finally conceived!


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Xx! You will have to dress her up so we can all see regardless! I just think it's the cutest when the tiniest babies are dressed up cute on Halloween! I understand because here in Ohio it's always a hit or miss on if it will be cold or not during Halloween. Last year the weather was perfect for Halloween. Year before we actually hit a couple of houses then went to Walmart and bought the kids candy. It was that cold!


2003 [emoji1349]2009 [emoji1407] 2012 [emoji1406] 2015 [emoji1406] 2015 [emoji1356] 2016 [emoji1413] 2018[emoji120] for a [emoji1405][emoji166]to fit into the mix of our crazy bunch and complete our beautiful family! [emoji7]


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Thanks Max & LMSM-stinks being sick & preggo...not much I can do to treat a cold. I went back to work as of Aug 10th...Labor Day wknd is my bday (9/1) & then I'll officially be in my last year of 30s eeek!
LMSM-go DD1! What a fun milestone [emoji4]
XX-wowww, you are close to meeting your baby girl!!! So excited for you!!! I'm sure your bump is looking cute as ever too! Do you have a nursery theme?

Max my dd is 1-15 so I'll be 38w exactly on New Year's Day and I've only made it past 37 weeks one out of four times so I'm hopeful. I'll be 37 on Christmas Day and that scares me [emoji15].
Xx I can't wait to see her [emoji177] and hear how labor went! Oh and I'd love to see nursery pix! I'm struggling I know what I want just don't know how to put it together. And bowel clearing? I've never heard of that before!


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LMSM-the eclipse was a very cool experience! It went completely dark in the middle of the day for about 2 minutes...gave me chills!! I didn't leave the house today to avoid that traffic...

Aww cute Lola!
Xx I did a little google and that's crazy you'd think I heard of bowels cleansing before my 5th child! I was sick wth the "flu" with ds3 on a party day and my aunt says your going to go into labor and I did that same night! But If I had heard of this before I wouldn't have taken myself to the dr to try n get tamiflu [emoji38].


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Nacire - I'm so glad you felt surrounded by others. I agree with others, cry when you need to and if your boys see you upset that's okay too. After my blighted ovum, I was angry, sad and everything all at once. We tried again straight away, but everyone is different xoxo

The total eclipse looks so fun! Lola, love the photo of your boys!

Loving all the family strength, love and friendship. My boys are close too.

LMSM - I had the normal Generation test. I fugre I didn't have anything with my boys and we have no family connections to genetic disorders. I believe PBN3 went with the better one because of her husband's cousin having a child with a genetic disorder.

XX - yay for nesting! Totally love that stage....my poor DH doesn't LOL

Max - Your bed rest is sounding so productive and creative. Hope your appointment goes well and it's shrinking and bubba is growing xo

AFM - Had the genetic blood test today, so should find out the sex by next Tuesday at the latest, but hopefully sooner. I'm less concerned about the sex now and more concerned about a healthy bubba. NERVOUS! My scan isn't until 7th Sept, which seems AGES away.

I'll post my bump pics now too. Keeping track every 2 weeks

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Just quickly before collapsing in bed..
So happy to see you here Iwant4 :D and woohoo for Nipt, can't wait for you to get your results!!
And very cute bump, nice and round :awe:

Thanks ladies! I'm getting super excited- we all are! I don't have a nursery theme per se. I had one at our old house that was Curious George for the babies room with a mural we painted and a Lorax mural in the room the older boys shared. The room now doesn't really have a wall we could do that. Plus, I'm leaving it neutral for when they get older. We told the children we would do that for them once they settled on which room will be theirs and what they want us to paint for them.

I didn't know it was a thing either Ash until my DS2! It happened also with DS3. For me, it's a weekly occurrence until labor and for one day only. I continue to be regular in pregnancy too so it makes it super uncomfortable for me [emoji13]!

I'm so excited for more of you ladies to find out gender! I can't wait to see more bump pics!


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Oh Lola!! They are too cute!!

Eek Iw4k!! So excited for you!!
You look great!! I think when I ever conceive I want to do the every 2 week pictures!! Great idea for comparison!!

Ash and xx!! Aww excited to see your nurseries once you get them finished!!


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Max - Update us ASAP after your appointment!! Thinking of you!


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Ladies [emoji20] I got on the scale for my weekly weigh in for the dr. And my shot deal. [emoji26] I have gained nearly 4lbs in one week!! It makes me sick to see this. I don't feel like I've ate a whole ton more but I have or was at the stage where everything was yummy. Back to feeling yuck today.


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Originally Posted by Mommy2apples

So excited for you xx! It's going to be so cool having a baby so little for trick or treat! Or will it be too cold where you live to take her out?


2003 [emoji1349]2009 [emoji1407] 2012 [emoji1406] 2015 [emoji1406] 2015 [emoji1356] 2016 [emoji1413] 2018[emoji120] for a [emoji1405][emoji166]to fit into the mix of our crazy bunch and complete our beautiful family! [emoji7]


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aww this just took me back to halloween last year when my youngest was 3 weeks old, she came trick or treating with us in a skeleton baby-gro and hat :heart: so cute!!

are you still sick ash? i wouldnt sweat the weight gain, i gained alot more with my girls than my boys im afraid to say :( but in the end it came off after delivery no problem thankfully!

4b2p it comes and goes I have a few good days and a few bad days but the last few days I've felt better and have ate more and more if a variety unfortunately. I really don't want to gain more than 10lbs for the rest of this pregnancy and I still have 20w left. Seems like such a huge challenge but it's so hard to get off after delivery my body likes to hold onto the weight while I'm breastfeeding. And I gained 60lbs with ds3 [emoji32] I sure hope I don't do that again.


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Can you walk with your boys to a park or something to get some exercise? I do this 3-4 times a week.

Also try having a salad for a meal. When I snack, it's either a protein bar, cheese stick and triscuits or an apple with a T of peanut butter.

It could be just a growth spurt! I put on 2lbs in 2 weeks and was hoping to stay where I was. I had been the same for 6 weeks so it was bound to happen.

As long as you are doing the best you can, that's really all you can do. I gained 52lbs with my DS3, because I was hungry all the time! Like watching the clock to be able to eat again! Who does that?!? I now know why, he grows at a constant rate (no growth spurts) and eats all the time!

Don't be hard on yourself! Try to do the best you can, when you can!

(((Hugs)))


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[emoji178]Baby Girl [emoji254]EDD 9/30/2017 [emoji178]

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Aww ash it's okay! Don't beat yourself up! You are still doing great! You look fantastic too and that will come right back off after baby girl is born! ❤️

Aww 4blue2pink!! I bet she was super super cute!!






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