I was due for my flu jab alongside my 25 week midwife appointment yesterday before travelling down to Devon to stay with Steve's family for New Year, but on Tuesday i started feeling a bit poorly.
It's amazing how quickly it came on really, I was fine in the morning and within two hours I was hot and sniffly.
After a bad night's sleep I felt worse Wednesday morning so the nurse wouldn't give me the jab, saying if my body is already fighting a bug, adding a second bug can cause complications, which I guess has logic behind it, but then I felt bad for not getting it earlier.
Anyhow, the midwife part went fine, I got my MAT1B form to give to work for maternity leave, and my HIP grant form (I make it by 4 days) for £190 - technically for fruit and vegetables apparently, but I imagine it may go towards nappies/nursery/antenatal classes. It was nice hearing the heart beat again, it's good and strong and he was dancing around in there!!
Then we trundled off down south. I felt awful, tried to sleep but Steve apparently needs stimulating and argumentative conversation whilst driving which hindered my rest somewhat, and he needed to be shown when cars were pulling out in front of him as he'd have just driven into them. (His motorway driving leaves a lot to be desired, pretty much he sits in the middle lane going at 65mph and wondering why other drivers undertake him but enjoying ranting about them).
Getting to Exeter was a relief as Steve wouldn't stop for me a second time and my back was killing me, my temperature was up and I felt nauseous, two hours sitting is too long for me, and I was in tears with feeling chronic, so on getting to Pinhoe he pulled over for two minutes so I could stretch and get some fresh air. I know he just wanted to get to his parents but I couldn't bear sitting there any longer, so uncomfortable.
I'm beginning to realise that men have no idea what pregnancy puts a woman's body through and they aren't necessarily prepared to try and understand it's not all easy!
But Wendy was welcoming with a duvet to lie on the sofa with and hot honey and lemon and after a couple of paracetamol I felt a bit better and had a nap whilst they took Izzy out which refreshed me. We had dinner and played a game afterwards but I was done in and retired to bed and fell fast asleep until Steve woke me up to tell me he was going to Nick and Louise's flat. He really didn't need to wake me to tell me, I doubt I'd have missed him.
Anyway, this morning I'm feeling more human BUT..... I seem to have got the lurgy on my chest now. I've had a weak chest for a few years, and coughing is painful, I can feel it dragging in my lungs so I'm upping my steroid inhaler dose morning and night and drinking hot drinks but I really hope it's not exacerbated as I can't be doing with another chest infection, they're so debilitating. I shall see how I go today and decide whether it's worth going to an emergency doctor whilst down here. I've learned from experience not to ignore it, I was signed off for two weeks from work last time!!
Baby is fine though and kicking and dancing again this morning. Hopefully, he'll be fine and get a good immune system himself from these bugs.
Thursday 30 December 2010
Monday 27 December 2010
Islands In The Stream
Today has been most productive and relaxing. A bit of a juxtaposition possibly, but accurate!!
Having got up about 10.00am after a night of painful indigestion we walked Izzy over to the retail park to get paint for the nursery. Yep, today is the day of tackling the spare room!!
We set off with a mild day, and then soon got rain, sleet, snow and hail, which made me wish we'd driven, (even though it was a short distance adn the walk made me feel better) but Izzy really appreciated it.
On getting home we had toasted bagels for lunch and began the clearing and rehoming of items. Most of the bits in that room are now baby orientated anyhow as I've got rid of most rubbish and things ok for charity bags so it didn't take too long.
The desk has now joined Steve's ever growing office space with yet another computer. We had a mild disagreement about the fact he wanted a computer in the lounge and I resented the intrusion of 'work life' into our 'home life', not that Steve has much distinction in this area anyhow as yet.
The shelves which he was using by the front door for his DV tapes etc.... have been cleared and will be painted white to go in the nursery and have toys and books on. One set may end up in our bedroom with books on. I have a lot of books and he has a lot of DVD's.
I then had a nap for about an hour. I think I was just catching up with the lack of sleep from last night's tummy pains.
Then I began the painting. I've not got very far as I got a really bad headache, possibly a combination of the lights, smells, heat (our house is too warm with the heating on sometimes) so I sort of had done around the bottom of two walls but we need to get some filler and remove some holes left from a mirror.
I'm quietly confident that we'll have it done by the time I go back to work on Tuesday. Well, the painting side of things! Ooh, and Sarah is giving us a cot tomorrow so that will go in there too.
I've also ordered the curtains and a few matching decorative items which will be in the store to collect next week. I can't wait to have it all put together and then get the rest of the furniture. It's going to be such a gorgeous room, and I love the paint colour already.
Our little boy's room. I keep standing in there amazed at the fact it's all coming together finally!
And the reason for the title of the post?
Well, I decided to have a bath to help my head and general weariness, and I'm more of a shower person so don't bother with the whole run a bath lark that often, but on lying there with all my curves protruding it made me think of the song, and I was singing it to myself laughing at the analogy of the islands rising up out of the bath!! Well, it's better than thinking I could be mistaken for Nessie of the loch isn't it!! I just can't believe how protruding my stomach actually is now. I had better add my Palmers before bed whilst thinking about it.
That's another matter too - forgetfulness. I'm terrible at the moment. I lost the car keys yesterday at my parents, it took me 30 minutes to locate them on my Dad's boxes of tablets - why I'd have thought that was a good place to leave them I don't know, but i'm having lots of 'senior moments' on a daily basis which is a little worrying!!
Right, sleep time now - bonne nuit mes amies :)
Having got up about 10.00am after a night of painful indigestion we walked Izzy over to the retail park to get paint for the nursery. Yep, today is the day of tackling the spare room!!
We set off with a mild day, and then soon got rain, sleet, snow and hail, which made me wish we'd driven, (even though it was a short distance adn the walk made me feel better) but Izzy really appreciated it.
On getting home we had toasted bagels for lunch and began the clearing and rehoming of items. Most of the bits in that room are now baby orientated anyhow as I've got rid of most rubbish and things ok for charity bags so it didn't take too long.
The desk has now joined Steve's ever growing office space with yet another computer. We had a mild disagreement about the fact he wanted a computer in the lounge and I resented the intrusion of 'work life' into our 'home life', not that Steve has much distinction in this area anyhow as yet.
The shelves which he was using by the front door for his DV tapes etc.... have been cleared and will be painted white to go in the nursery and have toys and books on. One set may end up in our bedroom with books on. I have a lot of books and he has a lot of DVD's.
I then had a nap for about an hour. I think I was just catching up with the lack of sleep from last night's tummy pains.
Then I began the painting. I've not got very far as I got a really bad headache, possibly a combination of the lights, smells, heat (our house is too warm with the heating on sometimes) so I sort of had done around the bottom of two walls but we need to get some filler and remove some holes left from a mirror.
I'm quietly confident that we'll have it done by the time I go back to work on Tuesday. Well, the painting side of things! Ooh, and Sarah is giving us a cot tomorrow so that will go in there too.
I've also ordered the curtains and a few matching decorative items which will be in the store to collect next week. I can't wait to have it all put together and then get the rest of the furniture. It's going to be such a gorgeous room, and I love the paint colour already.
Our little boy's room. I keep standing in there amazed at the fact it's all coming together finally!
And the reason for the title of the post?
Well, I decided to have a bath to help my head and general weariness, and I'm more of a shower person so don't bother with the whole run a bath lark that often, but on lying there with all my curves protruding it made me think of the song, and I was singing it to myself laughing at the analogy of the islands rising up out of the bath!! Well, it's better than thinking I could be mistaken for Nessie of the loch isn't it!! I just can't believe how protruding my stomach actually is now. I had better add my Palmers before bed whilst thinking about it.
That's another matter too - forgetfulness. I'm terrible at the moment. I lost the car keys yesterday at my parents, it took me 30 minutes to locate them on my Dad's boxes of tablets - why I'd have thought that was a good place to leave them I don't know, but i'm having lots of 'senior moments' on a daily basis which is a little worrying!!
Right, sleep time now - bonne nuit mes amies :)
Sunday 26 December 2010
25 Weeks
How far along: 25 Weeks.
Total Weight Gained: Am ignoring scales after last week's scare. And the fact it's Christmas and I've eaten lots.
Maternity Clothes: Yep, bought three new tops to wear as was bored with old ones (one was in the sale though).
Stretch Marks: Still none as yet.
Sleep: Once I'm asleep I'm ok, but baby is kicking a lot at the moment when I lie down. And turning over is getting more traumatic every week!! I can't believe how early I started moaning about the weight of a bump!!
Best Moment of the Week: Feeling baby dancing Father Abraham on Christmas morning!!
Movement: Lots. And whereas it felt like feet pokes before it's now like feet and hands at the same time, thus the Father Abraham action song came to mind that we do in Sunday school with the kids!
Food Cravings: Just liking food in general!
Gender: He's a baby BOY!!!
Belly Button: Still in but very stretched. I've said this for weeks now, and can't believe how stretched it is without coming out yet!
What I miss: Actually, nothing. It's Christmas and I didn't miss wine with the meal. I did think about having one glass, but stuck to Schloer and it was fine to be honest!
What I'm looking forward to: Hearing the heartbeat again on Wednesday and seeing if we can get a guestimate on due size?!
Milestones: 25 weeks, so just two more until the Third Trimester! Never thought I'd be saying Third Trimester so soon. The time is flying by.
Total Weight Gained: Am ignoring scales after last week's scare. And the fact it's Christmas and I've eaten lots.
Maternity Clothes: Yep, bought three new tops to wear as was bored with old ones (one was in the sale though).
Stretch Marks: Still none as yet.
Sleep: Once I'm asleep I'm ok, but baby is kicking a lot at the moment when I lie down. And turning over is getting more traumatic every week!! I can't believe how early I started moaning about the weight of a bump!!
Best Moment of the Week: Feeling baby dancing Father Abraham on Christmas morning!!
Movement: Lots. And whereas it felt like feet pokes before it's now like feet and hands at the same time, thus the Father Abraham action song came to mind that we do in Sunday school with the kids!
Food Cravings: Just liking food in general!
Gender: He's a baby BOY!!!
Belly Button: Still in but very stretched. I've said this for weeks now, and can't believe how stretched it is without coming out yet!
What I miss: Actually, nothing. It's Christmas and I didn't miss wine with the meal. I did think about having one glass, but stuck to Schloer and it was fine to be honest!
What I'm looking forward to: Hearing the heartbeat again on Wednesday and seeing if we can get a guestimate on due size?!
Milestones: 25 weeks, so just two more until the Third Trimester! Never thought I'd be saying Third Trimester so soon. The time is flying by.
Merry Christmas!!
God bless us, every one!!
Hope you have all had a wonderful Christmas Day?
Christmas Eve Steve and I went to bed and baby was kicking up a storm so Steve kept his hands on my tummy asking how I'd manage to sleep with that before he started snoring! Men have no idea at all!!
Our Christmas Day was lovely. Church in the morning, I led worship and we had communion, then home to the parents for roast turkey, with sister Amy and Karl then we watched the Queen's speech and opened presents, watched a bit of TV, had a rest, had some tea and played games before home to bed.
Most relaxing.
Today we've been back to Church (as it's Sunday!) and am having another roast dinner (pork this time) with my other sister Sarah, Aaron and Theo and Isaac and we will see what the day brings.
Izzy has been very good and enjoyed her first wrapped presents, and turkey dinner yesterday. She's still loving the snow, more so than us humans now I think!! It was -11 on the drive to Church this morning and my guinea-pigs food was all frozen. They're ok in their hay though, I check them many times a day and they're warm and snug in their hutch.
Then a free day tomorrow, a pantomime on Tuesday and travelling to Exeter on Wednesday after the midwife appointment to stay with the in-laws for a few days. It's nice not being at work isn't it!!!
Hope you have all had a wonderful Christmas Day?
Christmas Eve Steve and I went to bed and baby was kicking up a storm so Steve kept his hands on my tummy asking how I'd manage to sleep with that before he started snoring! Men have no idea at all!!
Our Christmas Day was lovely. Church in the morning, I led worship and we had communion, then home to the parents for roast turkey, with sister Amy and Karl then we watched the Queen's speech and opened presents, watched a bit of TV, had a rest, had some tea and played games before home to bed.
Most relaxing.
Today we've been back to Church (as it's Sunday!) and am having another roast dinner (pork this time) with my other sister Sarah, Aaron and Theo and Isaac and we will see what the day brings.
Izzy has been very good and enjoyed her first wrapped presents, and turkey dinner yesterday. She's still loving the snow, more so than us humans now I think!! It was -11 on the drive to Church this morning and my guinea-pigs food was all frozen. They're ok in their hay though, I check them many times a day and they're warm and snug in their hutch.
Then a free day tomorrow, a pantomime on Tuesday and travelling to Exeter on Wednesday after the midwife appointment to stay with the in-laws for a few days. It's nice not being at work isn't it!!!
Friday 24 December 2010
Friday Photos
Happy Christmas Eve!
It's here and hurray!!! I'm in work for the morning (Booo!) but we're not really working. We've not seen anyone today so here's a few photos:
I subconciously sucked my tummy in (as I used to do in photos) and my bump has gone on this pic! How weird! We're standing in the quad outside our office in the snow, just for the fun of it!
And here the bump is loud is proud and probably emphasised in horizontal stripes!!
One of my cheap and cheerful New Look additions from last week. I liked the cranberry colours for being Christmassy.
And yes, I'm one of 'those' folk who add photos of food and nice meals, so here's my prawns.
And roast turkey dinner - the sprouts were particularly tasty!!
And my slightly over exposed yet still utterly delicious pavlova!!
It's here and hurray!!! I'm in work for the morning (Booo!) but we're not really working. We've not seen anyone today so here's a few photos:
I subconciously sucked my tummy in (as I used to do in photos) and my bump has gone on this pic! How weird! We're standing in the quad outside our office in the snow, just for the fun of it!
One of my cheap and cheerful New Look additions from last week. I liked the cranberry colours for being Christmassy.
And yes, I'm one of 'those' folk who add photos of food and nice meals, so here's my prawns.
And roast turkey dinner - the sprouts were particularly tasty!!
Thursday 23 December 2010
Feeling Festive
Happy Christmas Eve Eve one and all!!
Today was our work Christmas lunch so we finished at 12.00 noon and 12 of us headed out for a lovely lunch at a restaurant I'd never been to before.
We had a slight drama in getting there. We'd booked a taxi from Sally's house at 12.30pm and with the weather being dreadful and the traffic being equally awful the taxi didn't show up. Not to worry though, Sally lives over the road from my parents and my Mum's car was free for the afternoon so we piled in and via the backstreets of town, I was able to get us there bang on 1.00pm! Shame the rest of the party got stuck and we were able to start at 1.30 instead.
And ladies and gentlemen, I had the prawn starter! Please don't gasp and judge me. From what I can tell prawns if cooked and hot are absolutely fine and I had no qualms about the quality of the restaurant. I would hesitate about cold prawns and other shell fish, but these were fine. I only had three and they were in filo pastry with a chilli dip and, gosh they were delicious. (I also intend to have one glass of fizz on Christmas Day as my Doctor says it'll be more than fine).
I then had the traditional turkey dinner (as we were going to be having pork on Christmas Day but that's now changed to accommodate great Aunty Joan who is coming too and wants her turkey!) but it was the tastiest Christmas restaurant turkey dinner I think I've ever had.
And dessert! Well, I took a risk here and opted for the raspberry pavolva as it's my favourite if done right, and by that I mean not a meringue nest, but the lightly marshmallow centered crisp meringue of a proper recipe, and I was not disappointed! Such a good meal. Only lacking in tea and coffee afterwards.
Then we headed into town (I had my flat shoes on whereas there were a lot of snow skids in heels from others - seriously, most British folk cannot cope with this weathers!!) and I got my cup of tea in a cafe whilst the others stuck to wine (during dinner I lime and soda water!!) and the others were all staying out but it was nearly 5.00pm and I was weary from shopping yesterday and just wanted to head home, so I did. I was a pregnant party pooper!
But on getting home Steve and I decided to go to the cinema and we saw 'Little Fockers' and it was brilliant. Steve was shaking with laughter through the whole film as he really thinks my Dad and Jack Byrnes have a lot in common (I'm not sure I'd agree) but it was a brilliant sequel and worth seeing. We were going to see 'The Voyage of the Dawn Treader' but that wasn't showing unitl 8.45 when I'm needing my bed by 10.00pm!! Maybe over Christmas when in Exeter...
And now, it's time for bed. I'm sleepy, I've wrapped up my last presents, and got Steve's all sorted. He has six parcels so I hope he likes them. He's just told me he's gone off list this year which although worrying is I guess endearing - unless it's because he lost my list again like last year?!
Nighty nighty all, bed and extra pillows are calling...... 2 more sleeps!!
zzzzzzzzz
Today was our work Christmas lunch so we finished at 12.00 noon and 12 of us headed out for a lovely lunch at a restaurant I'd never been to before.
We had a slight drama in getting there. We'd booked a taxi from Sally's house at 12.30pm and with the weather being dreadful and the traffic being equally awful the taxi didn't show up. Not to worry though, Sally lives over the road from my parents and my Mum's car was free for the afternoon so we piled in and via the backstreets of town, I was able to get us there bang on 1.00pm! Shame the rest of the party got stuck and we were able to start at 1.30 instead.
And ladies and gentlemen, I had the prawn starter! Please don't gasp and judge me. From what I can tell prawns if cooked and hot are absolutely fine and I had no qualms about the quality of the restaurant. I would hesitate about cold prawns and other shell fish, but these were fine. I only had three and they were in filo pastry with a chilli dip and, gosh they were delicious. (I also intend to have one glass of fizz on Christmas Day as my Doctor says it'll be more than fine).
I then had the traditional turkey dinner (as we were going to be having pork on Christmas Day but that's now changed to accommodate great Aunty Joan who is coming too and wants her turkey!) but it was the tastiest Christmas restaurant turkey dinner I think I've ever had.
And dessert! Well, I took a risk here and opted for the raspberry pavolva as it's my favourite if done right, and by that I mean not a meringue nest, but the lightly marshmallow centered crisp meringue of a proper recipe, and I was not disappointed! Such a good meal. Only lacking in tea and coffee afterwards.
Then we headed into town (I had my flat shoes on whereas there were a lot of snow skids in heels from others - seriously, most British folk cannot cope with this weathers!!) and I got my cup of tea in a cafe whilst the others stuck to wine (during dinner I lime and soda water!!) and the others were all staying out but it was nearly 5.00pm and I was weary from shopping yesterday and just wanted to head home, so I did. I was a pregnant party pooper!
But on getting home Steve and I decided to go to the cinema and we saw 'Little Fockers' and it was brilliant. Steve was shaking with laughter through the whole film as he really thinks my Dad and Jack Byrnes have a lot in common (I'm not sure I'd agree) but it was a brilliant sequel and worth seeing. We were going to see 'The Voyage of the Dawn Treader' but that wasn't showing unitl 8.45 when I'm needing my bed by 10.00pm!! Maybe over Christmas when in Exeter...
And now, it's time for bed. I'm sleepy, I've wrapped up my last presents, and got Steve's all sorted. He has six parcels so I hope he likes them. He's just told me he's gone off list this year which although worrying is I guess endearing - unless it's because he lost my list again like last year?!
Nighty nighty all, bed and extra pillows are calling...... 2 more sleeps!!
zzzzzzzzz
Wednesday 22 December 2010
Snow Is Falling..... and my 100th post!!
Not a lot has gone on the past couple of days thus the lack of a post yesterday.
Today I caught the bus to work as Steve was out at a breakfast networking meeting and it was actually quite pleasant trudging along in the diamond glittering snow to the bus stop. I was 15 minutes early for it (oops) and got cold toes waiting, but I've made it to work for what is technically Christmas Eve Eve Eve!!
I'm only here for the morning and will hopefully be meeting my old school chum Emma for lunch but as she's driving up from Coventry and the Midlands have a current snow blizzard going on we'll have to see whether or not they make it.
I'm really not dressed for the weather, wearing a dress and leggings and pixie boots so hopefully when mooching around town in the snow will be ok, they're normally quite good at gritting round the shops!
Then I want to go over to our retail park and get a couple of maternity jumpers as I'm fed up of my two that fit and it's cold. And I want a pair of new goey outy flat shoes as I'm not risking heels for our work Christmas lunch tomorrow.
I slept well last night and was up early, but not as early as yesterday which was 4.30 after needing the loo and waking up baby who kicked me for about two hours!! I woke Steve up to put his hand there and he was amazed how much I was being kicked and promptly went back to sleep! It's ok for the guy isn't it!
EDIT: A few hours later:
What a lovely day I've had!! I left work bang on time, got a parking space in town with no issues, met Emma and had a delicious lunch at Pastiche - spring rolls, burger with chilli jam and chocolate parfait for dessert, and we had a lovely couple of hours chatting, then mooched around town and got my last presents, for Mum, Amy and Steve, got some wrapping paper, nipped to the market to get ribbon, and then went across town to Queensville and got two maternity jumpers and a top (in the sale!) for Christmas day with a pretty necklace and bangles and a pair of flat shoes to wear tomorrow.
I am most pleased with my day.
I am now sat down with a cup of tea and thinking about going out again to do a bit of a food shop as it's on my to do list and we do need food. Hmm.
Today I caught the bus to work as Steve was out at a breakfast networking meeting and it was actually quite pleasant trudging along in the diamond glittering snow to the bus stop. I was 15 minutes early for it (oops) and got cold toes waiting, but I've made it to work for what is technically Christmas Eve Eve Eve!!
I'm only here for the morning and will hopefully be meeting my old school chum Emma for lunch but as she's driving up from Coventry and the Midlands have a current snow blizzard going on we'll have to see whether or not they make it.
I'm really not dressed for the weather, wearing a dress and leggings and pixie boots so hopefully when mooching around town in the snow will be ok, they're normally quite good at gritting round the shops!
Then I want to go over to our retail park and get a couple of maternity jumpers as I'm fed up of my two that fit and it's cold. And I want a pair of new goey outy flat shoes as I'm not risking heels for our work Christmas lunch tomorrow.
I slept well last night and was up early, but not as early as yesterday which was 4.30 after needing the loo and waking up baby who kicked me for about two hours!! I woke Steve up to put his hand there and he was amazed how much I was being kicked and promptly went back to sleep! It's ok for the guy isn't it!
EDIT: A few hours later:
What a lovely day I've had!! I left work bang on time, got a parking space in town with no issues, met Emma and had a delicious lunch at Pastiche - spring rolls, burger with chilli jam and chocolate parfait for dessert, and we had a lovely couple of hours chatting, then mooched around town and got my last presents, for Mum, Amy and Steve, got some wrapping paper, nipped to the market to get ribbon, and then went across town to Queensville and got two maternity jumpers and a top (in the sale!) for Christmas day with a pretty necklace and bangles and a pair of flat shoes to wear tomorrow.
I am most pleased with my day.
I am now sat down with a cup of tea and thinking about going out again to do a bit of a food shop as it's on my to do list and we do need food. Hmm.
Monday 20 December 2010
Gum Trauma
Just had a funny thing happen!
I'd been out of the office, sat back down and tasted blood which I've been getting a lot of a morning. I thought to myself 'uh oh' and grabbed a tissue to find my mouth full of blood and my teeth were red with it! The girls in the office were horrified!
I know that your gums get weaker but still, this was a bit silly. I was at the dentist recently and know my teeth are all ok albeit my gums are weak due to afore mentioned pregnancy!!
Then a third person today came into the office to comment how big I looked and I burst into tears. Cue instant horrified silence and back pedalling from unfortunate person who only meant it in a nice way. With bleeding gums and nose and weight issues I'm not a happy bunny this afternoon but didn't mean to cry in such a way as that. Oh dear.
I'd been out of the office, sat back down and tasted blood which I've been getting a lot of a morning. I thought to myself 'uh oh' and grabbed a tissue to find my mouth full of blood and my teeth were red with it! The girls in the office were horrified!
I know that your gums get weaker but still, this was a bit silly. I was at the dentist recently and know my teeth are all ok albeit my gums are weak due to afore mentioned pregnancy!!
Then a third person today came into the office to comment how big I looked and I burst into tears. Cue instant horrified silence and back pedalling from unfortunate person who only meant it in a nice way. With bleeding gums and nose and weight issues I'm not a happy bunny this afternoon but didn't mean to cry in such a way as that. Oh dear.
24 Weeks Bump Pic
They're not the clearest but here you go....
I'm going for the 'black is slimming' look. I'm not sure it's working for me though. This morning a work collegue came in to tell us her sister in law had a 9lb baby at the weekend and that my bump is bigger than hers full term. Oy vay. I think I'm brewing up a turkey sized boy here.
Sunday 19 December 2010
24 Weeks
How far along: 24 Weeks.
Total Weight Gained: Ok, don't judge me to much, but I've put on a stone and a half :( And I feel it too. I'm a chunky pregnant lady now.
Maternity Clothes: Yep, until the end now!
Stretch Marks: Still can't see any thankfully. Keeping up with the Palmers when I remember so hoping it's Mum's good genes!
Sleep: Not too bad at the moment. I seem to wake up about 6.00am which is technically a time I could get up, but going back to bed is dangerous, so I lie busting for a wee for about 40 minutes until my alarm goes off!!
Best Moment of the Week: I was very thrilled when Steve felt the baby kicking :)
Movement: Yes lots. And getting regular too, so early mornings when I first wake up, sitting at my desk after eating and generally after eating actually thinking about it!! And when I got to bed.
Food Cravings: Not so much now. Still liking milk.
Gender: He's a baby BOY!!!
Belly Button: Still in but very stretched.
What I miss: Same as last week, as it's not long until Christmas now, I'm missing pate, and brie and alcohol (and I'm not even a big drinker, just the not allowed it makes me want it!)
What I'm looking forward to: I want to get the nursery done!! We've taken lots to the tip today and the room is empty bar a desk and a wardrobe which will go this week, then I can get the paint and the curtains. It's being a slow process but the room is so empty now and I keep glancing in, trying to imagine a baby in there! And Christmas is next week! Hurray!!
Milestones: 24 weeks today. And we have our viable baby. A week on Wednesday is our next midwife appointment - 25 weeks!
Total Weight Gained: Ok, don't judge me to much, but I've put on a stone and a half :( And I feel it too. I'm a chunky pregnant lady now.
Maternity Clothes: Yep, until the end now!
Stretch Marks: Still can't see any thankfully. Keeping up with the Palmers when I remember so hoping it's Mum's good genes!
Sleep: Not too bad at the moment. I seem to wake up about 6.00am which is technically a time I could get up, but going back to bed is dangerous, so I lie busting for a wee for about 40 minutes until my alarm goes off!!
Best Moment of the Week: I was very thrilled when Steve felt the baby kicking :)
Movement: Yes lots. And getting regular too, so early mornings when I first wake up, sitting at my desk after eating and generally after eating actually thinking about it!! And when I got to bed.
Food Cravings: Not so much now. Still liking milk.
Gender: He's a baby BOY!!!
Belly Button: Still in but very stretched.
What I miss: Same as last week, as it's not long until Christmas now, I'm missing pate, and brie and alcohol (and I'm not even a big drinker, just the not allowed it makes me want it!)
What I'm looking forward to: I want to get the nursery done!! We've taken lots to the tip today and the room is empty bar a desk and a wardrobe which will go this week, then I can get the paint and the curtains. It's being a slow process but the room is so empty now and I keep glancing in, trying to imagine a baby in there! And Christmas is next week! Hurray!!
Milestones: 24 weeks today. And we have our viable baby. A week on Wednesday is our next midwife appointment - 25 weeks!
Saturday 18 December 2010
Later On...
No, we did not get to Ikea and Steve did not spend £100 on the shelf I want for the lounge!! Pretty much the weather is shocking and it's not advisable to go out on the roads. So we stayed in bed relaxing until 10.30 this morning. It was to cold to get up!! Izzy was getting very cross at us though, she knew it had snowed again and she wanted to go out to play!
So by 11.30 we were up and out and made our way over to the Chase, one of her favourite places to run around. We passed a huge queue of traffic heading into town, being the last shopping Saturday before Christmas and got to the lovely outdoors that is Cannock Chase.
Steve had insisted on bringing both his camera and tripod, only put a scarf on because I insisted and had no hat or gloves on. He promptly marched up a hill and decided it was too snowy to use them! I could have told him that. As he had not put gloves on his hands were freezing and after about 15 minutes he wanted to go back to the car. Izzy had other ideas and was pacified with lots of ball throwing on the way back. It felt good to get a bit of fresh air and exercise to be honest.
This afternoon I have made festive flapjacks, and cleaned the bathroom, lounge, kitchen and am still thinking about wrapping the Christmas presents up!!
Oh, and I sat and watched the Nativity story on Film 4 too. It was pretty moving :)
So by 11.30 we were up and out and made our way over to the Chase, one of her favourite places to run around. We passed a huge queue of traffic heading into town, being the last shopping Saturday before Christmas and got to the lovely outdoors that is Cannock Chase.
Steve had insisted on bringing both his camera and tripod, only put a scarf on because I insisted and had no hat or gloves on. He promptly marched up a hill and decided it was too snowy to use them! I could have told him that. As he had not put gloves on his hands were freezing and after about 15 minutes he wanted to go back to the car. Izzy had other ideas and was pacified with lots of ball throwing on the way back. It felt good to get a bit of fresh air and exercise to be honest.
This afternoon I have made festive flapjacks, and cleaned the bathroom, lounge, kitchen and am still thinking about wrapping the Christmas presents up!!
Oh, and I sat and watched the Nativity story on Film 4 too. It was pretty moving :)
Letter for Baby 1
Dear Baby
At the moment we are on the eve of 24 weeks. This is a special date as it's when doctors will try to save your life if you come early. The longer you stay in there though, the better for the time being, although if you want to come a couple of weeks early, I won't object! We are looking forward to meeting you.
We are currently going through the coldest winter I have ever known, and possibly the coldest since records began. And no, I don't know when records began, you'd have to ask your grandparents. I hope you're warm enough in your little home in my tummy.
You started squirming and jumping around inside me about seven weeks ago, but you've been getting steadily stronger and now Daddy can feel you when you give a big kick. You seem to be quite low down and kicking me in the base of my womb and although sometimes you make me jump and catch my breath, it's nice to know you're doing ok in there.
On the outside world we're getting ready for Christmas and believe it or not you've already had some presents!! We haven't got your nursery ready yet, but we will do it in the new year. We hope that you like the colours and toys in it.
We're wondering whether to start playing you music, we hope you'll have some musical ability, and Daddy wants you to play the piano, and Mummy hopes that you'll like books. You'll certainly be read to a lot when you join us out here at any rate!!
Anyway, stay safe and strong little one. You're doing well so far :)
Love Us. xxx
At the moment we are on the eve of 24 weeks. This is a special date as it's when doctors will try to save your life if you come early. The longer you stay in there though, the better for the time being, although if you want to come a couple of weeks early, I won't object! We are looking forward to meeting you.
We are currently going through the coldest winter I have ever known, and possibly the coldest since records began. And no, I don't know when records began, you'd have to ask your grandparents. I hope you're warm enough in your little home in my tummy.
You started squirming and jumping around inside me about seven weeks ago, but you've been getting steadily stronger and now Daddy can feel you when you give a big kick. You seem to be quite low down and kicking me in the base of my womb and although sometimes you make me jump and catch my breath, it's nice to know you're doing ok in there.
On the outside world we're getting ready for Christmas and believe it or not you've already had some presents!! We haven't got your nursery ready yet, but we will do it in the new year. We hope that you like the colours and toys in it.
We're wondering whether to start playing you music, we hope you'll have some musical ability, and Daddy wants you to play the piano, and Mummy hopes that you'll like books. You'll certainly be read to a lot when you join us out here at any rate!!
Anyway, stay safe and strong little one. You're doing well so far :)
Love Us. xxx
Hippy Hippy Shake
Hooray! Today is Saturday. Next weekend is Christmas and it's snowing outside! Admittedly we have no heating or hot water (still) but we're not too bad indoors. And I'm feeling quite jolly at the prospect of my Christmas wrapping today - I keep putting it off as it's a big job but when I get into it, I do enjoy it.
And last night two things happened:
1 - Baby was kicking a lot after dinner and Steve came in and felt it! Yay! Finally! I didn't say anything to indicate when there was a kick, and he had his hand pressing quite low (as in my mind baby is sitting up and doing either an irish jig or pressing grapes with his feet and pummeling me in my inside nether regions!) and 'pow'. Steve looked at me and sort of said 'was that a kick' and I said yes, and then 'pow' 'pow', he did it again. It's nice that Steve now has an idea of how often and how hard I'm getting these blows to my interior!!
2 - The aching hips came back with a vengance last night to the point where I couldn't lie on my left side as it just hurt. On my right side was ok, and I actually slept quite well last night but I had to take two paracetamol this morning to take the edge off. I wonder if it's the sudden cold weather affecting my joints!!
Anyway, I need to get dressed and out of my pj's and see whether I can persuade Steve to come to Ikea with me to just look at nursery furniture and maybe part with £100 to buy the shelf I want to put up in the lounge as Dad's coming by tomorrow with his drill and it would just finish off the room for Christmas. We'll see, I'm not holding my breath. My Dad thinks it's funny, he says I'd give all our money away and be poorer for it, whereas Steve wants to keep all our money and be stingy so we're good for each other. Humpf.
And last night two things happened:
1 - Baby was kicking a lot after dinner and Steve came in and felt it! Yay! Finally! I didn't say anything to indicate when there was a kick, and he had his hand pressing quite low (as in my mind baby is sitting up and doing either an irish jig or pressing grapes with his feet and pummeling me in my inside nether regions!) and 'pow'. Steve looked at me and sort of said 'was that a kick' and I said yes, and then 'pow' 'pow', he did it again. It's nice that Steve now has an idea of how often and how hard I'm getting these blows to my interior!!
2 - The aching hips came back with a vengance last night to the point where I couldn't lie on my left side as it just hurt. On my right side was ok, and I actually slept quite well last night but I had to take two paracetamol this morning to take the edge off. I wonder if it's the sudden cold weather affecting my joints!!
Anyway, I need to get dressed and out of my pj's and see whether I can persuade Steve to come to Ikea with me to just look at nursery furniture and maybe part with £100 to buy the shelf I want to put up in the lounge as Dad's coming by tomorrow with his drill and it would just finish off the room for Christmas. We'll see, I'm not holding my breath. My Dad thinks it's funny, he says I'd give all our money away and be poorer for it, whereas Steve wants to keep all our money and be stingy so we're good for each other. Humpf.
Friday 17 December 2010
A Most Insomniatic Night
I had a very strange night last night.
Mum, Dad and I were going to a carol service at the main parish church in town. We’ve been every year since I myself was a member of the Youth Choir (many years ago!!) and it’s a lovely tradition we have. We start to feel really festive after joining with the carols!!
Mum and Dad collected me at 6.15 and after a quick dash to M&S (Mum to get half price crackers and me to get a Christmas present for my friend) we ran over to St. Mary’s where we met Dad to find the church dark and closed!!
It seems the time had been changed, but on the website they said the concert would be Thursday December 17th. Well, Thursday was the 16th!! And Friday is the 17th. So there was a bit of a typo mix up there. Disappointed we headed home again!!
I then felt rather sleepy and thought I’d just rest on our bed for a bit and Steve joined me to feel the bump and see whether he was kicking (he wasn’t) but it was nice to cuddle for a bit and suddenly it was 9.30pm, then 11.30pm and I was still fully dressed lying on top of the covers! Izzy was at the foot of the bed (Steve had let her up as he’s such a softie with her) and I put my pj’s on and went back to sleep until 2.30am when Izzy started scratching and nibbling her feet and making the bed wobble. So down to her bed she went and another hour on, I was hungry. Going to sleep at 8.00pm had really unset my body clock! So down I went again to munch on a bowl of sultana bran (if I’m going to have to munch out of hours it’s going to be relatively healthy) and at 3.30am I went back to bed to try and sleep again without much luck but I did wake up at 7.00am again so must have dozed off slightly.
So now I’m in a bit of a blur today. *yawn*
I’ve been thinking about the bump. I’ve felt rather bad for resenting my weight gain, and all my moaning and wouldn’t want folk to think I’m not delighted at the prospect of our baby. I truly am. I guess I’m just one of those who is taken aback at pregnancy and all that comes with it due to not having a clue to start with!!
But anyway, I was reading about the different ways you put weight on, and the placenta itself weighs a lot, the fluids, your boobs, the baby himself, and you put fat on to burn off as energy when you start breastfeeding, so that did all make me feel better. I’m being a bit of a camel at the moment!! And when I feel baby moving and kicking at the moment it does reassure me more now rather than freak me out. Unless it’s really strong and makes me jump and wince! Ooh, a bit like now!! I’m being battered internally!! I wish I knew whether he was poking me, kicking me or just turning over! I can’t tell from the feelings at all!!
He’s squirming about now, it feels quite low in my pelvis, and still a bit butterfly like to be honest. I’ve not noticed my stomach moving yet as he moves about at times I can’t just lie and watch to see!!
There’s so much yet to come!!
Mum, Dad and I were going to a carol service at the main parish church in town. We’ve been every year since I myself was a member of the Youth Choir (many years ago!!) and it’s a lovely tradition we have. We start to feel really festive after joining with the carols!!
Mum and Dad collected me at 6.15 and after a quick dash to M&S (Mum to get half price crackers and me to get a Christmas present for my friend) we ran over to St. Mary’s where we met Dad to find the church dark and closed!!
It seems the time had been changed, but on the website they said the concert would be Thursday December 17th. Well, Thursday was the 16th!! And Friday is the 17th. So there was a bit of a typo mix up there. Disappointed we headed home again!!
I then felt rather sleepy and thought I’d just rest on our bed for a bit and Steve joined me to feel the bump and see whether he was kicking (he wasn’t) but it was nice to cuddle for a bit and suddenly it was 9.30pm, then 11.30pm and I was still fully dressed lying on top of the covers! Izzy was at the foot of the bed (Steve had let her up as he’s such a softie with her) and I put my pj’s on and went back to sleep until 2.30am when Izzy started scratching and nibbling her feet and making the bed wobble. So down to her bed she went and another hour on, I was hungry. Going to sleep at 8.00pm had really unset my body clock! So down I went again to munch on a bowl of sultana bran (if I’m going to have to munch out of hours it’s going to be relatively healthy) and at 3.30am I went back to bed to try and sleep again without much luck but I did wake up at 7.00am again so must have dozed off slightly.
So now I’m in a bit of a blur today. *yawn*
I’ve been thinking about the bump. I’ve felt rather bad for resenting my weight gain, and all my moaning and wouldn’t want folk to think I’m not delighted at the prospect of our baby. I truly am. I guess I’m just one of those who is taken aback at pregnancy and all that comes with it due to not having a clue to start with!!
But anyway, I was reading about the different ways you put weight on, and the placenta itself weighs a lot, the fluids, your boobs, the baby himself, and you put fat on to burn off as energy when you start breastfeeding, so that did all make me feel better. I’m being a bit of a camel at the moment!! And when I feel baby moving and kicking at the moment it does reassure me more now rather than freak me out. Unless it’s really strong and makes me jump and wince! Ooh, a bit like now!! I’m being battered internally!! I wish I knew whether he was poking me, kicking me or just turning over! I can’t tell from the feelings at all!!
He’s squirming about now, it feels quite low in my pelvis, and still a bit butterfly like to be honest. I’ve not noticed my stomach moving yet as he moves about at times I can’t just lie and watch to see!!
There’s so much yet to come!!
Thursday 16 December 2010
The Flu Bug
There's some serious debate going on the Babycentre forum today about the flu, swine flu and the vaccinations offered.
Now, I'll admit that I had a letter from my doctor's a while ago inviting me to have a jab being a bit asthmatic and pregnant and I've avoided it as last year my Dad had his jab and felt very ill afterwards, so he's not been for one either.
But I don't really know what to do for the best now. I know catching flu is dangerous, and swine flu when pregnant is even more so.
So I've booked a jab on the same morning as my 25 week midwife appointment (the morning we're travelling down to Exeter) so will ask the midwife and nurse at the same time what I should do! I don't want any side effects, but I guess if I do feel a bit ill with it, Steve's family won't mind me taking a nap of an afternoon whilst we're there.
The NHS website says this here.
Ho hum....
Now, I'll admit that I had a letter from my doctor's a while ago inviting me to have a jab being a bit asthmatic and pregnant and I've avoided it as last year my Dad had his jab and felt very ill afterwards, so he's not been for one either.
But I don't really know what to do for the best now. I know catching flu is dangerous, and swine flu when pregnant is even more so.
So I've booked a jab on the same morning as my 25 week midwife appointment (the morning we're travelling down to Exeter) so will ask the midwife and nurse at the same time what I should do! I don't want any side effects, but I guess if I do feel a bit ill with it, Steve's family won't mind me taking a nap of an afternoon whilst we're there.
The NHS website says this here.
Ho hum....
Wednesday 15 December 2010
Issues and Tissues
I don't know if it's the pregnancy making me cry, but I know it's the pregnancy making my legs swell up to the point where my knee high boots won't zip up and as that's the fact that made me cry last night I'm putting it down to the pregnancy. We went out for a meal with the Church worship group and I put on a skirt and did my hair and make-up. And my boots didn't fit :( *sob*
I do feel blue today.
My old sofa is ruined beyond repair by the dog. The cushions have big chunks missing and I'm struggling to get comfortable on it. I can't imagine not having a decent sofa in the later stages of pregnancy. Steve hasn't grasped the concept yet. He thinks it's fine. I really don't. There's a nice looking 3 seater on the Homebase website for £500, home delivery with good reviews. It would be so easy to buy online and just have somewhere to sit. I'm thinking of just getting rid of what we have so we HAVE to get one. We could sit on dining chairs in the meantime. I'd certainly find that more comfortable.
The boiler isn't working. Again. And it's cold and due to snow and freeze again this weekend.
It's at the point where I'm too embarrassed to invite anyone round because who wants to sit in a freezing house on a lumpy, nasty sofa.
Oh, and I pranged the car yesterday morning. I scraped a bollard and dented the rear passenger door. Steve isn't too cross but in that I only thought to tell him at 3.00am (I was wide awake) it may not have sunk in properly yet for him.
And my ribs are still hurting. And I'm tired. And weepy today. I've warned the boys in the office. Tears may flow by lunch time.
I do feel blue today.
My old sofa is ruined beyond repair by the dog. The cushions have big chunks missing and I'm struggling to get comfortable on it. I can't imagine not having a decent sofa in the later stages of pregnancy. Steve hasn't grasped the concept yet. He thinks it's fine. I really don't. There's a nice looking 3 seater on the Homebase website for £500, home delivery with good reviews. It would be so easy to buy online and just have somewhere to sit. I'm thinking of just getting rid of what we have so we HAVE to get one. We could sit on dining chairs in the meantime. I'd certainly find that more comfortable.
The boiler isn't working. Again. And it's cold and due to snow and freeze again this weekend.
It's at the point where I'm too embarrassed to invite anyone round because who wants to sit in a freezing house on a lumpy, nasty sofa.
Oh, and I pranged the car yesterday morning. I scraped a bollard and dented the rear passenger door. Steve isn't too cross but in that I only thought to tell him at 3.00am (I was wide awake) it may not have sunk in properly yet for him.
And my ribs are still hurting. And I'm tired. And weepy today. I've warned the boys in the office. Tears may flow by lunch time.
Tuesday 14 December 2010
Ribbitt
Sorry for more moaning. Here it comes..... are you ready?.....
It's just that my ribs are hurting me!! My ribs of all things. Sleeping on my side isn't the easiest for me anyway, (although sleeping on a duvet helps, as do extra pillows) but now I've been kept awake by rib ache!! (and from 5.00am by poky jabs from the little man - thanks very much!!). I am getting a bit fed up myself of all the moaning I'm doing. I never expected pregnancy to be fun, but I feel that I'm already a terrible person for admitting to feeling pains and aches and weariness - all the time!!!
This helpful site gives lots of information on all the pains and aches and discomfort one can expect during pregnancy!! Nice to know isn't it!! Apparently, it's due to my expanding uterus pushing my ribs about. And being week 23 now, this is likely to last until at least week 36 when baby descends into my pelvis. That's another 13 weeks. I've never known any one else moan like me about being pregnant. I do apologise!!
I so cannot wait for Christmas Eve when I can have a nice break over Christmas!! No work until the 4th January 2011! Hurrah!!! I shall be able to nap whenever I feel the need. And from the 4th it's only another 2 months until I finish work. I shall really be on countdown from that point. The thought of sitting here at 34 weeks is rather nauseating. Plus I know I'll be busy at that point and have lots to get sorted before I depart.
Talking of work, I'm in the office today and my pregnancy super smell spider senses are in overdrive as they've done something with the next door kitchen carpets and all I can smell are fumes (like when you smell a marker pen) but no one else can smell it at all!! It's very nasty and making me feel a bit woozy and headachy, so I'm now chilling myself with my fan on but it's giving me fresh air to breathe instead.
I was reading a book yesterday about the plague outbreak in England in 1666 (I know, fun topic isn't it!) and there is a scene where the protagionist is called to help deliver a baby, and she's really worried as she's never done it before, just helped birth sheep, and the woman who's called on her services says not to worry, she has some poppy to help the pain, and Anna (our heroine) says not to use that as it won't help, and that labour is called labour for a reason, a women has to work hard to birth a baby. And it's true. It's a good book, it's based on a true story of a little village in Derbyshire that all take an oath to not run away and spread the plague when they come down with it, and are thus cut off from the rest of the world. It's called 'Year of Wonders' by Geraldine Brooks and I've been to the place to see it, it's not far from where I live.
And on a final note, Mum and Dad have said they'll come round on Sunday afternoon to help clear out the remainder of the nursery and clean the carpets :) Hurray!! We can tip the old furniture and get it all empty and ready to paint. And maybe buy the curtains?! That's cheered me up! I feel I've done as much as I can for the time being and I can't move furniture myself and Steve isn't feeling the same urge as me to get it done. I also want a new sofa (well, need is more appropriate since Izzy has wrecked our old one), and a shelf over the TV unit to finish off the lounge. It's all on my list for now!!
It's just that my ribs are hurting me!! My ribs of all things. Sleeping on my side isn't the easiest for me anyway, (although sleeping on a duvet helps, as do extra pillows) but now I've been kept awake by rib ache!! (and from 5.00am by poky jabs from the little man - thanks very much!!). I am getting a bit fed up myself of all the moaning I'm doing. I never expected pregnancy to be fun, but I feel that I'm already a terrible person for admitting to feeling pains and aches and weariness - all the time!!!
I so cannot wait for Christmas Eve when I can have a nice break over Christmas!! No work until the 4th January 2011! Hurrah!!! I shall be able to nap whenever I feel the need. And from the 4th it's only another 2 months until I finish work. I shall really be on countdown from that point. The thought of sitting here at 34 weeks is rather nauseating. Plus I know I'll be busy at that point and have lots to get sorted before I depart.
Talking of work, I'm in the office today and my pregnancy super smell spider senses are in overdrive as they've done something with the next door kitchen carpets and all I can smell are fumes (like when you smell a marker pen) but no one else can smell it at all!! It's very nasty and making me feel a bit woozy and headachy, so I'm now chilling myself with my fan on but it's giving me fresh air to breathe instead.
I was reading a book yesterday about the plague outbreak in England in 1666 (I know, fun topic isn't it!) and there is a scene where the protagionist is called to help deliver a baby, and she's really worried as she's never done it before, just helped birth sheep, and the woman who's called on her services says not to worry, she has some poppy to help the pain, and Anna (our heroine) says not to use that as it won't help, and that labour is called labour for a reason, a women has to work hard to birth a baby. And it's true. It's a good book, it's based on a true story of a little village in Derbyshire that all take an oath to not run away and spread the plague when they come down with it, and are thus cut off from the rest of the world. It's called 'Year of Wonders' by Geraldine Brooks and I've been to the place to see it, it's not far from where I live.
Monday 13 December 2010
23 Weeks - Bump Pic
And here we have an unclothed bump!!! Apologies for the pyjama creases!!!
It's most strange seeing a distorted and stretched tummy looking back at you from the mirror.
I'm quite glad you can see my ribs in this below picture!!!
And that is baby being cosy in there. I feel that's it's quite a neat bump really when all's said and done!!
It's most strange seeing a distorted and stretched tummy looking back at you from the mirror.
In Bruges
Here's a write up of my weekend of travels!
Friday
05.30am - Up and at 'em!! It was very early, but we made it to the pick up point in good time and settled onto the coach.
The seats were slightly too reclined for my liking and I put the seat back and with my pillow I tried to nap. I drifted off to sleep but then woke up suddenly feeling clammy, green and nauseous. I can only think that because I was on my back, my body was saying 'no' and I couldn't sleep that way!! Luckily, the coach wasn't full, so I could move behind Steve and have two seats to myself and put my legs up which helped a lot. I felt really rested.
1.00pm - Ferry time! Steve and I enjoyed the ferry and it only took just over an hour and we were there. I never realised it was all so close.
5.00pm - After a stop at a wine warehouse (where we only bought iced tea!) we headed to our hotel. It was the most basic hotel I've ever stayed at but it was ok.
7.00pm - We headed out and found a nice restaurant called Mirador where we had a nice meal together.
10.00pm - I was sleepy and the bed was actually very comfortable so zonked out early!
Saturday
8.30am - Down for breakfast which was continental and consisted of cereals, juice, coffees (bleurgh), yoghurts, bread, croissants (yum) and butter and jam.
9.30am - Off to Bruges we went and within an hour we were dropped at a park and ride. Steve and I opted to walk the short distance into the city and found a lovely park, and at least three Christmas markets. The windows were full of Christmas goodies and although we didn't have the money to really splurge it was fun window shopping.
13.00pm - We had some food from the markets, fries for me and bratwurst for Steve (any sort of nutrition really went out of the window this weekend) and stopped in a cafe for waffles and drinks so I could use the facilities!! Being pregnant and cold is not conducive to bladder control!!
17.00pm - Back to Calais and we went back to the same restaurant and Steve again had a steak, and I had tartiflette which is potatoes, onions and bacon in a cheesy sauce. Most tasty it was too, and unfortunately very hot as I discovered when a piece of cheese soldered itself to the roof of my mouth and burned me.
21.00pm - We watched a film on Steve's lap top in our hotel room and went to sleep after a lovely day!
Sunday
08.00am - Breakfast again and onto the coach. There was a little drama with two attempts from illegal refugees trying to hide in the engine to get access to the UK. One guy was found outside the hotel as the bus driver noticed fingerprints around the engine door, and sure enough, a man had crept in during the night and was hiding in the wheel arches. How he thought he'd manage to hold on for the duration is beyond me, but when he realised he wasn't going to be allowed to stay there, he came out looking glum.
09.30am - Wine warehouse stop - and refugee number two was found at this point sitting on the axel of the front wheels. This fellow was more accepting and even waved the bus off after he was asked to exit.
12.00pm - Back on the bus for home and I slept most of the way after getting to Dover. I had two cups of tea on the ferry from Costa (I think I'd not drunk enough over the weekend and had a bit of a dehydration headache).
19.00 - Back in Stafford and we collected our car and drove up to my parents to collect Izzy. She was pleased to see us and it was nice to be home. We watched half an hour of tv and then off I went to bed and that, was my weekend away.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
I had been wondering how I'd cope with being pregnant and away and although the initial nausea episode worried me, I was fine the rest of the weekend. Being able to put my feet up on the coach journey helped a lot I think and I think I should have drunk more but I was worried about going to the loo.
Sunday 12 December 2010
23 Weeks
How far along: 23 Weeks.
Total Weight Gained: Still haven't weighed myself. Not sure I ever will again!!
Maternity Clothes: Absolutely. I got some over bump jeans, most comfy!! Loved my maternity coat this weekend, (at least the buttons have stayed on for a little longer after sewing them on for the fourth time!)
Stretch Marks: Still none!
Sleep: Erm, had some wakeful nights, but last night I was sooo tired I just zonked until my alarm woke me up too early!!
Best Moment of the Week: Buying a French newborn outfit for baby!!
Movement: Yes, quite a bit this week, either squirmy or poky! Steve still hasn't felt him yet :(
Food Cravings: Not really. I did eat three jam doughnuts last week. In one go. I felt bad afterwards :(
Gender: He's a baby BOY!!!
Belly Button: I felt it this morning and it's still really stretched now, and doesn't feel as though it goes in much at all!! Not long till it's all flat I reckon!
What I miss: As it's not long until Christmas now, I'm missing pate, and brie and alcohol (and I'm not even a big drinker, just the not allowed it makes me want it!)
What I'm looking forward to: Still looking forward to getting the nursery done, but having had a weekend noticing prams and babies all over the place, I'm looking forward to pushing baby around in his lovely pram too!!
Milestones: Well, not sure 23 weeks is a milestone, one more week until viable, but having had a weekend in Bruges this is a most well travelled foetus!!!
Total Weight Gained: Still haven't weighed myself. Not sure I ever will again!!
Maternity Clothes: Absolutely. I got some over bump jeans, most comfy!! Loved my maternity coat this weekend, (at least the buttons have stayed on for a little longer after sewing them on for the fourth time!)
Stretch Marks: Still none!
Sleep: Erm, had some wakeful nights, but last night I was sooo tired I just zonked until my alarm woke me up too early!!
Best Moment of the Week: Buying a French newborn outfit for baby!!
Movement: Yes, quite a bit this week, either squirmy or poky! Steve still hasn't felt him yet :(
Food Cravings: Not really. I did eat three jam doughnuts last week. In one go. I felt bad afterwards :(
Gender: He's a baby BOY!!!
Belly Button: I felt it this morning and it's still really stretched now, and doesn't feel as though it goes in much at all!! Not long till it's all flat I reckon!
What I miss: As it's not long until Christmas now, I'm missing pate, and brie and alcohol (and I'm not even a big drinker, just the not allowed it makes me want it!)
What I'm looking forward to: Still looking forward to getting the nursery done, but having had a weekend noticing prams and babies all over the place, I'm looking forward to pushing baby around in his lovely pram too!!
Milestones: Well, not sure 23 weeks is a milestone, one more week until viable, but having had a weekend in Bruges this is a most well travelled foetus!!!
Thursday 9 December 2010
Wakey Wakey
Getting up is so hard at the moment! It's cold out, and so very very dark. Not inspiring at all!
I have to admit, last night was better. I spread the spare duvet out so Steve had to sleep on it too, and I slept from 10pm - 1.00am, turned over, then slept till 3.20am, turned over, then at 4.10am the dog scratched to come up so Steve hurled himself out of bed (he swears he doesn't know he's doing it?!) and let her up. Oh, and also, I got a nose bleed last night! Apparently that's normal during pregnancy too. Lovely stuff.
I'm sorry that my sleeping habits aren't the most riveting of reading. But I do feel a little more rested today which pleases me.
On the plus side I packed last night for our Bruges trip. We're dropping Izzy at my parents this evening, then Steve is going to his youth club and I'm meeting my friends Carly and Anna for a couple of hours which will be lovely. Then Steve will likely try and pack damp clothes into a carrier bag for his weekend and at 6.00am tomorrow morning, we'll be departing to get the coach.
I'm taking my maternity notes with me, just in case, but I'm sure all will be well. I'll probably get swollen legs from sitting on the coach but they tend to make a few stops, and we're not going far once we're off the ferry in France.
It's warmer in Belgium and France than it is in England at the moment anyway!!
I have visions of Steve and I sitting at bistro's on street corners, sipping hot chocolates and wandering around the Christmas markets enjoying Frites and mayonnaise, waffles and bratwurst. I'll let you know on Monday how it all goes!
I have to admit, last night was better. I spread the spare duvet out so Steve had to sleep on it too, and I slept from 10pm - 1.00am, turned over, then slept till 3.20am, turned over, then at 4.10am the dog scratched to come up so Steve hurled himself out of bed (he swears he doesn't know he's doing it?!) and let her up. Oh, and also, I got a nose bleed last night! Apparently that's normal during pregnancy too. Lovely stuff.
I'm sorry that my sleeping habits aren't the most riveting of reading. But I do feel a little more rested today which pleases me.
On the plus side I packed last night for our Bruges trip. We're dropping Izzy at my parents this evening, then Steve is going to his youth club and I'm meeting my friends Carly and Anna for a couple of hours which will be lovely. Then Steve will likely try and pack damp clothes into a carrier bag for his weekend and at 6.00am tomorrow morning, we'll be departing to get the coach.
I'm taking my maternity notes with me, just in case, but I'm sure all will be well. I'll probably get swollen legs from sitting on the coach but they tend to make a few stops, and we're not going far once we're off the ferry in France.
It's warmer in Belgium and France than it is in England at the moment anyway!!
I have visions of Steve and I sitting at bistro's on street corners, sipping hot chocolates and wandering around the Christmas markets enjoying Frites and mayonnaise, waffles and bratwurst. I'll let you know on Monday how it all goes!
Wednesday 8 December 2010
Still Yawning....
Well last night I decided to try sleeping on top of our old double duvet for extra softness to see whether it helped my aching joints so folded it in half and clambered onto it and snuggled under our new super feather duvet and was extremely cosy and toasty. But whether it was due to the folding or the fact I felt a bit to high in the bed I still didn't sleep well.
I kept having to turn over just as much and had the added fear of falling out of bed!!
It's getting a bit silly now. I know my body is preparing me for getting up during a night to feed a baby, but surely it's more sensible to get as much sleep as I can at this point?!
It doesn't help when our dog decides she doesn't like it downstairs and scratches to come up with us at 4am. I've said we shouldn't let her dictate where she sleeps but Steve doesn't mind. He wouldn't, he fills the length of the bed so she sleeps on my feet and takes up my space.
I feel like a zombie! And 18 more weeks to go.
I kept having to turn over just as much and had the added fear of falling out of bed!!
It's getting a bit silly now. I know my body is preparing me for getting up during a night to feed a baby, but surely it's more sensible to get as much sleep as I can at this point?!
It doesn't help when our dog decides she doesn't like it downstairs and scratches to come up with us at 4am. I've said we shouldn't let her dictate where she sleeps but Steve doesn't mind. He wouldn't, he fills the length of the bed so she sleeps on my feet and takes up my space.
I feel like a zombie! And 18 more weeks to go.
Tuesday 7 December 2010
Yawn.....
I have not been sleeping well.
Sorry to moan again (do you sense a theme here?) but I am tired. And aching. So much aching!! Hips, pelvis and even my ribs seem to hurt sleeping on my side! I'm turning over so much in the night trying to get comfortable. My leg pillow helps, but tonight I'll try sleeping on a duvet to make the bed softer. I hope I don't overheat with it, but it helped last time when I felt achy on the boat.
I'm loathe to take lots of paracetamol really, so am just going with the aches and pains at the moment as they're not stopping me from doing anything as yet.
I'm a bit of a zombie at work though.
This weekend Steve and I are off to Bruges for a Christmas market. I'm looking forward to getting away with him for a couple of days, and I shall take a spare pillow on the coach to sleep on and use for my legs in the hotel.
It'll be the last oppurtunity for a while maybe to spend some quality time just the two of us! Although we were saying we'd go to Edinburgh for Valentines weekend!! Who knew he could be romantic?! (Well, more talk no action, it'll be me booking it no doubt but still, the thought was his!)
Sorry to moan again (do you sense a theme here?) but I am tired. And aching. So much aching!! Hips, pelvis and even my ribs seem to hurt sleeping on my side! I'm turning over so much in the night trying to get comfortable. My leg pillow helps, but tonight I'll try sleeping on a duvet to make the bed softer. I hope I don't overheat with it, but it helped last time when I felt achy on the boat.
I'm loathe to take lots of paracetamol really, so am just going with the aches and pains at the moment as they're not stopping me from doing anything as yet.
I'm a bit of a zombie at work though.
This weekend Steve and I are off to Bruges for a Christmas market. I'm looking forward to getting away with him for a couple of days, and I shall take a spare pillow on the coach to sleep on and use for my legs in the hotel.
It'll be the last oppurtunity for a while maybe to spend some quality time just the two of us! Although we were saying we'd go to Edinburgh for Valentines weekend!! Who knew he could be romantic?! (Well, more talk no action, it'll be me booking it no doubt but still, the thought was his!)
Monday 6 December 2010
22 Weeks Bump Pic
Sunday 5 December 2010
22 Weeks
How far along: 22 Weeks.
Total Weight Gained: I think lots. I'm wider :(
Maternity Clothes: Yep, I got a new pair of jeans and they're so comfy. Over bump ones certainly beat under bump ones in my opinion.
Stretch Marks: Nope!
Sleep: I don't feel too tired, but I'm aware I'm turning over about 4-5 times a night. I seem to have a routine of falling asleep on my left side, then going a bit numb and turning over, and so on and so on until 6am when I wake up and turn to my right side for a last doze before getting up.
Best Moment of the Week: Announcing we're having a boy!
Movement: Yes, quite a bit. Not so much yesterday after a very poky and jabby week, but felt enough wiggling this morning to make me think things are ok in there. I wish I could stop worrying!!
Food Cravings: Not really. Just lots of food in general. And not helpful to the blimpness, but I ate a whole Terry's Chocolate Orange on Thursday.
Gender: He's a baby BOY!!!
Belly Button: I felt it this morning and it's really stretched now, and doesn't feel as though it goes in much at all!! Not long till it's all flat I reckon!
What I miss: I'm going to miss not having another scan I think. I looked forward to those as confirmation everything was ok. The onus is now on me to learn baby's pattern of movement.
What I'm looking forward to: I really really really want to get the nursery sorted. Steve is dragging his feet though. He doesn't have any nesting instinct whatsoever. I've been buying wipes, muslin clothes and baby bootees this week. And stashing them all. He'll not know what's hit him when I come to arrange it all in the new furniture! Oh, and I can't wait for Christmas too!!
Milestones: 22 weeks, so only 2 more weeks until they say baby will have more chance of survival on the outside.
Total Weight Gained: I think lots. I'm wider :(
Maternity Clothes: Yep, I got a new pair of jeans and they're so comfy. Over bump ones certainly beat under bump ones in my opinion.
Stretch Marks: Nope!
Sleep: I don't feel too tired, but I'm aware I'm turning over about 4-5 times a night. I seem to have a routine of falling asleep on my left side, then going a bit numb and turning over, and so on and so on until 6am when I wake up and turn to my right side for a last doze before getting up.
Best Moment of the Week: Announcing we're having a boy!
Movement: Yes, quite a bit. Not so much yesterday after a very poky and jabby week, but felt enough wiggling this morning to make me think things are ok in there. I wish I could stop worrying!!
Food Cravings: Not really. Just lots of food in general. And not helpful to the blimpness, but I ate a whole Terry's Chocolate Orange on Thursday.
Gender: He's a baby BOY!!!
Belly Button: I felt it this morning and it's really stretched now, and doesn't feel as though it goes in much at all!! Not long till it's all flat I reckon!
What I miss: I'm going to miss not having another scan I think. I looked forward to those as confirmation everything was ok. The onus is now on me to learn baby's pattern of movement.
What I'm looking forward to: I really really really want to get the nursery sorted. Steve is dragging his feet though. He doesn't have any nesting instinct whatsoever. I've been buying wipes, muslin clothes and baby bootees this week. And stashing them all. He'll not know what's hit him when I come to arrange it all in the new furniture! Oh, and I can't wait for Christmas too!!
Milestones: 22 weeks, so only 2 more weeks until they say baby will have more chance of survival on the outside.
Saturday 4 December 2010
Pants
And I mean the UK pants, so knickers to us! Not trousers!
I tend to wear cotton 5 packs (I'm not a saucy pant sort of girl) and I go for mini's or high leg. Before I grew a huge bump on my front, I liked them pulled up to my tummy button else they felt uncomfortable, but now, all those are redundant as they have to go below the bump. (I've not been able to face even looking at maternity pants as yet!!!)
Anyway, I accidentally wore a pair of high leg ones the other day. And man, they were uncomfy. Being a doofus, I went to bed in them and woke up feeling that they were far too tight, so grabbed a pair of scissors and just cut the elastic either side and went back to sleep.
Steve thought this was hysterical. I didn't disturb him though! Can you imagine if I'd asked him to help?! Nope!
I've read that women do tend to start storing necessary fat reserves on their hips and bums from this point. I feel bigger there although clothes are still fitting fine, but I'm worrying I'm turning into a blimp of sorts and it's going to take ages to get back to my wedding day figure.
Anyway, I had to pop out this afternoon and buy more minis. I'm not getting caught out with high legs again!!
I'm also wondering what pants I'll need in my maternity bag afterwards. Having skipped ahead a few chapters in the baby books I'm aware I'll need some bigger pants to help contain the maternity pads required for a few weeks. (Still stocking up on those). Maybe a trip to Primark would be a good idea, especially for cheap nighties and a t-shirt for the birth. I've not really got anything I'd want to ruin to that level!! I asked Steve if he had a t-shirt I could wear, but he's not willing to relinquish one of his MSP ones!!
It's strange thinking how important pants are at the moment!!
I tend to wear cotton 5 packs (I'm not a saucy pant sort of girl) and I go for mini's or high leg. Before I grew a huge bump on my front, I liked them pulled up to my tummy button else they felt uncomfortable, but now, all those are redundant as they have to go below the bump. (I've not been able to face even looking at maternity pants as yet!!!)
Anyway, I accidentally wore a pair of high leg ones the other day. And man, they were uncomfy. Being a doofus, I went to bed in them and woke up feeling that they were far too tight, so grabbed a pair of scissors and just cut the elastic either side and went back to sleep.
Steve thought this was hysterical. I didn't disturb him though! Can you imagine if I'd asked him to help?! Nope!
I've read that women do tend to start storing necessary fat reserves on their hips and bums from this point. I feel bigger there although clothes are still fitting fine, but I'm worrying I'm turning into a blimp of sorts and it's going to take ages to get back to my wedding day figure.
Anyway, I had to pop out this afternoon and buy more minis. I'm not getting caught out with high legs again!!
I'm also wondering what pants I'll need in my maternity bag afterwards. Having skipped ahead a few chapters in the baby books I'm aware I'll need some bigger pants to help contain the maternity pads required for a few weeks. (Still stocking up on those). Maybe a trip to Primark would be a good idea, especially for cheap nighties and a t-shirt for the birth. I've not really got anything I'd want to ruin to that level!! I asked Steve if he had a t-shirt I could wear, but he's not willing to relinquish one of his MSP ones!!
It's strange thinking how important pants are at the moment!!
Friday 3 December 2010
Snow Day?...
Well, it's after 2pm but a water pipe has burst on campus so we may be sent home early!! I envisage hot chocolate, finishing Dad's Christmas present, wrapping some presents, and watching the Muppet Christmas Carol. Just waiting on 'that' phone call to release us all!
Come on phone.....
In the meantime, I called the pharmacist who said that the cream was fine so I think things are getting back to normal down there.
Baby is kicking a lot today with wiggling as well.
And a message has been sent - We're not being sent home at all. They're waiting till after working hours to sort it out instead. Boooo!!!!
Come on phone.....
In the meantime, I called the pharmacist who said that the cream was fine so I think things are getting back to normal down there.
Baby is kicking a lot today with wiggling as well.
And a message has been sent - We're not being sent home at all. They're waiting till after working hours to sort it out instead. Boooo!!!!
Thursday 2 December 2010
And the Doctor Said.....
Thrush.
Yaagh! It's so horrid. The worst bit is, he said this bout may clear up but being pregnant means I'll be prone to it throughout. Something to do with having a 'sugary vagina' during pregnancy!! Why oh why?
Actually, maybe the worst bit was the examination. I was hoping he'd just take my symptoms, give me canestan cream and send me away. Oh no. I had an examination, the nurse had to shine a head torch up there and swabs have been taken as well. I guess it's better to be safe rather than sorry.
Then off to the pharmacy where I had an internal cream to use over night which I did (*shudder*) and then an external cream which I was expecting to be canesten as well, but isn't. It's called Dakacort cream and as I've not used it before, I carefully read the instruction leaflet with it, to see it's not really suitable during pregnancy?!!!
So I've not yet applied any, it seems to be more of a hydracortisone for athletes foot than anything else, so I want to check it's correct first. Is that a bit particular of me? Maybe, but for the best I think. I'm probably worrying over nothing but I'd rather check it out than worry unnecessarily.
Seriously, I was such a naive girl, thinking that labour was the only uncomfortable part of pregnancy! I never dreamed pregnancy could be uncomfortable too!! And I think I'm probably getting it pretty easy compared to some others! Imagine my moaning if it were worse!!! =D Ha ha!!!
Yaagh! It's so horrid. The worst bit is, he said this bout may clear up but being pregnant means I'll be prone to it throughout. Something to do with having a 'sugary vagina' during pregnancy!! Why oh why?
Actually, maybe the worst bit was the examination. I was hoping he'd just take my symptoms, give me canestan cream and send me away. Oh no. I had an examination, the nurse had to shine a head torch up there and swabs have been taken as well. I guess it's better to be safe rather than sorry.
Then off to the pharmacy where I had an internal cream to use over night which I did (*shudder*) and then an external cream which I was expecting to be canesten as well, but isn't. It's called Dakacort cream and as I've not used it before, I carefully read the instruction leaflet with it, to see it's not really suitable during pregnancy?!!!
So I've not yet applied any, it seems to be more of a hydracortisone for athletes foot than anything else, so I want to check it's correct first. Is that a bit particular of me? Maybe, but for the best I think. I'm probably worrying over nothing but I'd rather check it out than worry unnecessarily.
Seriously, I was such a naive girl, thinking that labour was the only uncomfortable part of pregnancy! I never dreamed pregnancy could be uncomfortable too!! And I think I'm probably getting it pretty easy compared to some others! Imagine my moaning if it were worse!!! =D Ha ha!!!
Wednesday 1 December 2010
Back to the doctors again – TMI!!
The past couple of weeks (as I may have already mentioned) I’ve suffered with a bit of irritation ‘down below’ and the night before last it got so bad I was woken up by it. I won’t go into too much detail, suffice it to say it’s not pleasant. At all. Ouch.Frankly, I was worried I’d developed varicose veins there as again I’d been reading symptoms online (I mustn’t do it anymore, it’s not helpful!) and had read it normally happens in about 4% of pregnant women around their 30-40 weeks. Well, I could be a tiny minority who gets it early I thought!!
Anyhow, I decided to see if it was just me and posted on the Babycentre forum and thankfully had three replies to say they’d got the same symptoms and they’d been treated for thrush! Like me, this wasn’t like the previous bouts of thrush suffered, so they’d also wondered what it could be and were glad to see my comments.
Phew. I guess the internet can be helpful from time to time.
So the moral of the story is, go and see a doctor. Which I’m doing tomorrow afternoon at 3.30. I’m hoping I don’t have to show anything. It’s too cold and the only appointment I could get was with a Doctor who also sometimes preaches at our church! Which made my mum laugh when I told her; I doubt he’d know who I was, but still. I think it’d be weird.
I just want to get some Canesten cream to alleviate things and let me sleep in peace again!! And for free!! With my maternity card!!
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