34 Weeks Pregnant

How far along: 34 weeks. Looking like 3-4 weeks to go (21-28 days).

How big is baby: Butternut Squash. Ovia app: 

Weight Gain:  +15 lbs 

Stretch Marks: Nothing new. 

Symptoms: The fatigue continues to be present. The peeing is getting hard and I have to go more often. Also constipation really sucks. I also am very gassy. The reflux hasn't lightened up any. I'm getting some weird pains here and there. It's really hard to get up from a sitting position. My feet are still pretty swollen. It's still hard to breathe. 

Sleeping: It's so hard to fall asleep. Then it's hard to stay asleep. I'm still getting soreness on my legs when I sleep on my sides and I can't figure out any way to reduce it. Charlie horses have been trying to sneak up on me, but I've been pretty good about flexing my foot to try and avoid them. Peeing in the night about 2-3x's. Sometimes baby wakes up and is doing ninja kicks in there -- makes it hard to go back to sleep. 

Food cravings: Something strange, but some foods don't taste good. Food I love tastes so bland. What's up with that? 

Food aversions: None. 

Maternity Clothes: Nothing new. 

Movement: Baby boy's movements are sometimes highly uncomfortable. Other times, they're strong. I feel his hiccups pretty consistently and wonder if they bother him any? 

What I did / Got for Baby: I got a lot done for baby boy. 

• I washed some more of his sheets/blankets. 
• The "baby corner" in my bedroom is pretty much done. 
• His "baby corner" in the living room is also pretty much done. 
• I put together a "breastfeeding / changing" basket. I have all the changing stuff in there, just need to work on the breastfeeding stuff - which I'm still accumulating. 
• I put together his diaper bag for the hospital! 
• I put batteries into all the new baby things that need them. 
• I washed the carseat pads. 
• I started putting together my diaper bag. 
• I put a sheet on his crib mattress. 

What I miss: being able to sit comfortably. 

Workouts: laundry and cooking count? 

What I'm looking forward to: Getting my induction date/time. 

Best moment of the week: Hearing that everything is well with baby boy. 

Rants/Raves: I always have a rant, right? Well, this week is no different. I had a very difficult week. I'm just exhausted. Between major work deadlines, work projects, my medical appointments, my son's medical appointments, and some NEW major behavioral issues from my son.... I'm just done. I really need a break. I feel like I can't focus on the pregnancy at all or focus on prepping for the baby. Which is funny because it sounds like I did a lot of stuff and I guess I did, but that's mostly during the time I should be sleeping!! Since sleep has not been easy, I've focused that time on getting a little bit done at a time. 

Not to mention, my mom keeps pissing me off. I hate it when she calls me "lazy." Like, really? I'm lazy? I just want to say F-You and ask her not to come here. I don't know if her presence is going to do more harm than good. But I swear, if she says I'm lazy when she's here, I might have my little brother come pick her up and drive her to California. I don't need that sh-t right now. I've been meaning to write an entry about my issues with her that have come up, but I've just been too busy this week. Maybe after next week? I'm hoping my work schedule calms down after my projects are done. 

Another rant. I had a co-worker say, "Oh! I didn't know you were pregnant! When are you due?" <sigh> Bump insecurities galore. Still been meaning to post an entry on that topic. But really, I'm 8 months pregnant and she didn't notice my stomach protruding? I guess she just figured I was gaining weight. Nice. Right after she made that comment, I had to give a 1.5 hour training session in front of co-workers I don't know that well and who probably just figured I was fat. It's funny because that day I wore a shirt that I thought made me look obviously pregnant... guess not. I'll get around to writing that post. I feel so petty being bother by it and being so sensitive... but with everything else going on and just feeling straight up overwhelmed... not to mention my crazy pregnancy hormones... it's just one extra thing. 

Appointments Next Week: Tuesday 5/2 MFM+BPP. Friday 5/5 OB+NST. 

33w+6d: Weekly OB + NST

The OB appointment went relatively well. I always feel like I'm forgetting something though, like I should be asking more questions or having more discussion about something. My stats: 

Weight: +15 lbs 

Blood Pressure: 102/72

The NST is interesting because it's not always easy to get it on "right." Baby boy will sometimes move and then they lose the signal, then they have to readjust things, and then that makes me stay on for longer. 

Good news, all looks well on the NST. No signs of contractions or anything. 

I brought in my FMLA paperwork for them to complete. They said they'll complete it in the week and give me a copy next appointment. I also had to fill out some paperwork for them. This is my first time doing anything related to FMLA / Leaves of Absence / Short Term disability stuff. I just hope I'm doing everything right. I received paperwork from my company and it has a checklist. But to be honest, the checklist isn't very clear or succinct on when things need to be done. I'm going to have to call on a few of the "to do" items. 

We also discussed induction date. I was really hoping to get my induction day at this appointment. No such luck. My OB said they like to schedule the inductions the "same month" that they're happening. So, she said they'll schedule it at my NEXT appointment for sure. For sure? That's what they said last week. Argh. I just really want a date so I can inform work, get everything arranged for my son, and really start mentally preparing. 

Hopefully next week I will get a REAL date! Let's see. 

Next Steps: 5/5 Weekly OB + NST appointment -- get induction date and receive FMLA paperwork. 

33w+3d: Weekly MFM + BPP

My MFM appointments have been going relatively quickly! Which is a big change, they normally take FOREVER. Stats:

Weight: +15 lbs
Blood Pressure: 110/66

The BPP went relatively quickly. They were able to see everything they needed to see and I think we were done within 15 minutes or so. Baby boy is still head-down and looks perfect! No pictures or anything, he was facing my back and we couldn't see his face.

The diabetes consults are getting so difficult. Work and life just feel extremely busy and I just haven't been able to log and eat well. I just wish there was a way to hit the pause button or something. Insulin changes:

Morning: Humulin N 40 iu, Humulin 18 iu
Evening (before dinner): Humulin R 20 or 22 iu
Evening (before bed): Humulin N 64 iu

I'm still having major needle aversions when doing my shots... It's such a stressor. My MFM did say she was OK with me scheduling induction at 38 weeks vs 37 weeks, which is good news! She doesn't see any issues with baby boy. We'll see what happens at the 36 week appointment though, because that's when they'll decide if a C-Section is necessary or not.

Next Steps: 5/2 weekly BPP and Diabetes consult

33w+0d: Newborn Care Class Experience

I decided to take a newborn care class. Believe it or not, I never took one before and I've had how many babies? It's always funny to think that I've been able to manage and all my babies have actually done really well.

I wanted to take the class as a "refresher" since it's been so long since I've parented a newborn. I also was hoping to get some new / useful information that maybe I missed since I never took a class on newborn care.

Here is the book and the "baby" on display: 

I will say that if you are a NEW parent and have not been around infants very much, this class is great and wonderful. Covers a lot of stuff: diapering, bathing,  But since I have so much experience with babies, I didn't learn anything new. 

A lot of the "new" stuff I wasn't that familiar with was covered in birthing class and/or lactation class. There is a bit overlap in all three classes. Technically, I could've gone without it! 

Also, the room was extremely warm -- the chairs are highly uncomfortable -- so I almost fell asleep in the class! LOL. 

All in all, it was good to know that I have most of the knowledge that I need already. Also, good to know that there's nothing new that I need to watch out for. 

As of now, I'm done with all the prenatal classes! So yay for that, I can have my Saturdays back (for now). 

33 Weeks Pregnant

How far along: 33 weeks. Countdown: 4-5 weeks (28-35 days) to go until possible delivery the week of May 20th (between 37-38 weeks).

How big is baby: Celery. Ovia app: 

Weight Gain:  +14 lbs 

Stretch Marks: No new ones, but the ones I have area getting a bit darker. 

Symptoms: Where to begin? Here are some of the joys of pregnancy that people don't talk about much :) 

• Swollen Feet. My work flats are TIGHT! My feet are so swollen. I even had my house cleaner comment on it and tell me to lay off the salt. Ugh. 
• Pregnancy Brain: Another silly example of pregnancy brain in the works. I gave my son his pajamas and he was taking so long to get dressed. I try not to 'crowd' him and let him take his time. Once he came in my room I figured out why it took him so long. I gave him two SHIRTS! He ended up putting one of the shirts on as pants. Poor guy :(  
• Pains and aches in neck. I've been getting a bunch of aches and pains. Most noticeably I've been getting some neck pain and an increase in back pain. I noticed it happens most on a busy work day and I can't get up from my desk as much as usual. 
• Reflux. I've been experiencing horrible reflux. I didn't get this in the first trimester and didn't really anticipate it in the third trimester. But it's here. If I eat and drive in the car, sometimes it's bad. After dinner and trying to lay down -- it's the worse. I've been sleeping elevated to try and help it. But I'm just very uncomfortable. 
• Increase in discharge. I've been getting a lot of watery discharge. I'm back to wearing pads because it was so bad it was saturating my underwear! Panty liners are too thin and it would just over saturate them quickly. 
• Hot Flashes. The hot flashes have increased in frequency and duration. No way to know when or why they're going to hit. But I end up sweating so bad and dripping. It's gross. It also doesn't help that it's already hot here, I just feel over heated all the time. 

Sleeping: Sleeping has become extremely difficult...! If I wake up in the middle of the night, it is nearly impossible to fall back to sleep. Not to mention that I've been experiencing major reflux and it kicks in at night time. I've been trying to sleep at an incline, but it doesn't always work out. Plus, sometimes my son will wake up and come in my room. Once I'm awake, it's so very hard to go back to sleep. 

Food cravings: Last week was super busy at work and it was so very hard to stay on any type of eating schedule. This made it really difficult to manage my diabetes.  

Food aversions: N/A 

Maternity Clothes: I've mentioned it before, my maternity pants aren't very comfortable anymore. I've been wearing skirts/dresses -- but that means I have to constantly shave my legs! Have I mentioned how difficult it is to bend down and shave my legs? Oh man... I wish my maternity pants fit comfortably because then I wouldn't bother shaving! Argh. 

Movement: Baby boy moves pretty frequently. There are days when he's less active and I start to let worry creep into my mind... Once I start to get concerned, he will normally make some movements and I feel better. It's nice I'm getting monitored with the BPP/NST's now. I have to keep reminding myself, "All looked well and he's OK." 

What I did / Got for Baby:  My breast Pump: Spectra S2, arrived! It's extremely light-weight, which surprised me. I haven't cleaned it yet. Need to figure out when the best time to do that is. Maybe after breastfeeding is established? 

I decided on a wrap! I got the Wrapsody Stretch Hybrid. I didn't realize there would be a different way to wrap using a stretch hybrid vs. a stretchy wrap (like the Moby). I've been watching videos on different newborn holds and it's a bit intimidating and I'll definitely have a learning curve with it. Give me a Moby and I can wrap very easily. But the stretch hybrid wraps have a little more to it... So, will have to see how it all goes down. 

What I miss: Having energy. 

Workouts: Nothing considered exercise for a normal person! 

What I'm looking forward to: Scheduling my induction date! 

Best moment of the week: Watching baby boy on the ultrasound. 

Rants/Raves: Rave. A friend has offered to throw me a baby shower! I'm not really that into baby showers... I actually don't like them very much. It's also weird because I've been a mom for a so long already, so it almost feels like I shouldn't have a baby shower since it's not my "first baby." I never had a baby shower since I was a foster parent and I don't think it's in the norm to have baby showers for foster parents -- although now that I think about it... It's a really good idea to! 

I also just assumed I wouldn't have one because I don't really have any family that lives near that can host it. It was very nice of my friend to offer, that I decided to go ahead and go for it! It's scheduled for May 21st... so we're in that "time frame" of 37 weeks along and hoping baby boy doesn't decide to join us ahead of time! The shower is going to be small and very low-key. I'm extremely touched my friend offered and so grateful to her. What's also nice is another friend offered to host the shower at her house! How very nice and sweet. I feel very lucky to have these generous people in my life. 

Since my friend is hosting at her house, we are doing an "adults only" shower. It's funny because in my family, showers are normally co-ed and all ages are welcome. There's all this strange etiquette for baby showers (just google it) that I had no clue about! People feel very strongly about things. Like some are adamant that children should be welcome at showers, while others think children should not be allowed. I kinda like the idea of "adult only"! Being a single mom, I hardly get any adult interaction without my son. One of my guy friends is willing to watch him during the shower, so I'll technically be "kid free" for the shower! Which in all honesty is NICE. It's hard to be fully engaged in conversations with adults when you have one ear/one eye watching your preschooler. I always feel "half-there" at brunches or get togethers because I'm always on mommy-mode. A few hours being kid-free is like a luxury! Especially since I'm about to have double boy trouble when baby boy arrives :) 

Rant. I have a rant about my mom... but it's really long, so I'll save it for its own post. 

Appointments Next Week:  

1. 4/25: MFM Diabetes + BPP
2. 4/28: OB + NST, also OB will fill out maternity leave paperwork 

32w+6d: OB Visit + NST, Maternity Leave Scenarios

Today I had my weekly OB visit and my very first  NST. My stats:

Weight: +14
Blood Pressure: 122/80

I think I'm gaining too much at this point. I need to talk to my MFM about it next week in more detail. I'm not sure if it's because I've been eating RIGHT before my appointments or not? But I don't think I'm supposed to gain that much since I started out overweight. Baby boy is supposed to gain 1/2 a pound a week, but I don't think I'm supposed to gain. Argh. I'll have to remind myself to talk to my MFM about it.

Non-Stress Test (NST) 

On the SMC board there were some tips on the NST. I didn't really "realize" what they would be looking for, so it's nice to have had others that have been through it before me. I decided to eat right before my NST and I think that helped. Within 5 minutes of getting hooked up, baby boy started moving around a bunch.

The NST is interesting. You go into this small room and sit in a recliner. They then hook up these monitors to your belly to check the baby's movements. Then you have this little button you press whenever YOU feel the baby. Everything went well with the NST and I was able to get out of there within 30 minutes. There was a period of a few minutes where baby moved and they didn't catch any movement, so they made me stay on for an extra 5 minutes.

No signs of baby in distress or pre-term labor. So yay for that.

OB Visit 

It was kind of weird because my OB visit was WHILE I was hooked up to the NST. It was hard to concentrate on the conversation when I was laying in a recliner and supposed to be pressing this button every time the baby moved. LOL. We talked about a few things:

1. My swollen feet. My shoes don't fit anymore! Luckily it's sandal/flip-flop season. But that means my swollen feet are out there to show the world. LOL. I don't even notice them being swollen, they don't hurt or anything. But man -- they're bigger and look pretty bad. The OB looked at them and said they weren't too bad, but they'll keep an eye out for it if they get any bigger. 
2. Scheduling the Induction. We talked about when I would be able to schedule the induction. I was hoping I'd be able to schedule it today, but no such luck. She said let's wait another week to schedule. She also said, "Let's get you on the calendar for 37 weeks." I was like, oh no - I can't do exactly 37 weeks because that would be BEFORE I hit my 1-year mark at work causing me not to qualify for maternity leave... eek! Next week when I meet with the OB, I'm going to try to get it scheduled for May 23rd - which is my 1-year mark with my company. 
3. What about a C-Section? We won't know if I need a C-Section until I'm 36 weeks. My OB said we'll get on the calendar for an induction and if it looks like I need a C-Section instead, then we'll just re-work it to get in there for a C-Section instead. With an induction, you can get "bumped" to a different day if they get too busy at the hospital. For a planned C-Section, you aren't likely to get bumped. 

Other than that, the visit was pretty fast and uneventful. I scheduled my LAST 4 visits with the OB... which is so surreal after all this time! 

Maternity Leave 

Speaking of maternity leave, since I know that I'll be induced (or have a C-Section) between 37-38 weeks I decided to go ahead and open my maternity leave case at work.

We went into depth about IF I deliver before May 23rd and IF I deliver on/after May 23rd. So, May 23rd is the magic day that I need to make it to! My scenarios:

1. Before May 23rd. I will not qualify for maternity leave pay. I will get 6 weeks short term disability for a vaginal birth or 8 weeks short term disability for a C-Section. FMLA leave of 12 weeks will run in concurrently. After short term disability, I can take an additional 4-6 weeks (depending on the type of birth). This would be unpaid or I can exhaust my PTO. 
2. On or After May 23rd.  I will get the same options for short term disability (6-8 weeks). Then I'll qualify for 8 additional weeks full pay under the company's maternity leave policy and my job will be protected for the days that exceed the FMLA leave (12 weeks). Having total leave of 14-16 weeks (depending on type of birth). 

So... I'm VERY close to not qualifying for maternity leave... Now, if all goes well and I have an induction -- I'm confident I can schedule it on or after May 23rd without an issue. However, if something happens between now and then -- like baby deciding to come early or just something else like pre-term labor... then I'm SOL. 

Of course I'll roll with it, what matters the MOST is that baby boy comes into this world healthy. But... it would be a lot easier and better for it to happen on/after May 23rd! More paid leave and more bonding time with baby. 

Will have to see how it all plays out! 

Next Step: Weekly OB / NST next Friday.

32w+3d: MFM Visit + BPP Ultrasound

This week I start my 2x's a week appointments on Tuesdays and Fridays, rotating between the MFM+BPP and OB+NST. Today was the MFM visit and BPP. My stats:

Weight: +13
Blood Pressure: 112/70

Hmph. I went up +3 lbs from last week. Not sure if it was a fluke of clothing or if it's because I ate right before my appointment. Hopefully it doesn't really mean anything. My blood pressure is awesome though, which is really nice.

Bio Physical Profile (BPP) Ultrasound

This is the fastest ultrasound I've ever had, less than 20 minutes. It's nice because that means that they were able to see everything they needed to see. According to WebMd: The BPP measures your baby's heart rate, muscle tone, movement, breathing, and the amount of amniotic fluid around your baby.

The ultrasound tech showed me baby boy practicing his breathing. I'm still amazed that he's in there! I mean, I see him on the ultrasound and everything -- I feel him moving -- but there are still times where it's hard to believe I'm going to have a baby! I was concerned that baby boy had moved since I was feeling movement in weird places, but he's still in the right position, head down. So apparently he's either head butting me, he's punching his way out, and his booty is hitting the right side of my rib cage while his feet are kicking the left. Definitely getting tight up in there for him.

I kinda talked to the ultrasound tech about all this monitoring and how some people don't need all these extra appointments. I am high risk for a few reasons: I'm over 35 -- the call this "Advanced Maternal Age" (AMA), I got pregnant through IVF (which I was surprised this alone would be considered high risk), and I have type 2 diabetes. So basically I'm high risk x3! Yikes. Although the appointments can be a big pain to schedule and juggle, I am a million times grateful I'm getting so much monitoring. It's reassuring that if something goes wrong -- they'll catch it. Also, I don't need to go around wondering how the baby is doing.

MFM Diabetes Consult  

Since I was just at the MFM office last week, I have to admit that the last week was pretty hectic schedule-wise. Easter activities, work commitments, appointments -- it became a bit difficult to consistently check my blood glucose levels 2 hours after each meal. Easter weekend was also very tiring for me in general -- just having a lot of stuff to do. I keep hoping things will calm down and I think they will after this week (I hope!). All my pre-natal classes will be completed - YAY! No more busy weekends, hoping to do some 1x1 activities with my son before the baby arrives, also need to finish baby prepping (almost done!). Work doesn't slow down much until maybe the 2nd week of May. Hopefully that means I'll be able to be more consistent with tracking everything.

Changes to my Insulin:

• Morning: Humulin N increase to 38 iu, Humulin R increase to 18 iu 
• Evening (before meals): Humulin R increase to 20 iu [or 22 iu if glucose is 120 or higher]
• Evening (before bed): Humuli R in crease to 58 iu 

I'm hoping we don't have to add another insulin shot before lunch... We might have to. What's so weird about my glucose levels is, one day my glucose levels will be fine after a meal. I'll eat the same meal (assuming it'll be fine) and my glucose levels will be off the chart. No way to predict when it'll happen and when it won't happen. But my MFM said that's normal because baby is getting bigger and it's just getting harder to manage. 

I'll be doing another growth ultrasound around 35-36 weeks to see where baby boy is at. 

Discussing Possible Induction / C-Section Date

My MFM wants me to talk to my OB about getting "on the schedule" for either an induction or C-Section. We won't know until 36 weeks if I'll need a C-Section, but right now baby boy is measuring really good and not big at all. If things continue this way, then an induction might be the way to go. 

I didn't realize that the induction / C-Section slots can possible "fill up!" So, MFM suggested I talk to my OB and see if we can get something scheduled between 37-38 weeks. Which means between May 20-27!!!! Yikes. If I schedule it in advance, I may be able to choose the day... Other things that are good about it: 1) I can pick a last day of work, 2) I can arrange childcare better, and 3) I'll have a real countdown to a specific day / time. Crazy. 

But it does feel weird to choose the date... mostly because my dad's birthday is that week and one of my much loved foster babies birthday is that week... I also have a bunch of friends that have birthdays that week. So, it just feels weird to me to pick a date. 

Will talk to the OB about it on Friday and see what she says though and when they normally schedule it out. It'll be kind of exciting to get a firm date! 

Next Steps: Next Tuesday BPP and Diabetes Discussion with MFM

32 Weeks Pregnant

How far along: 32 weeks. I have 5-6 weeks (35-42 days) until possible delivery between 37-38 weeks. 32 weeks seems like a pretty big deal to me. When I had my last bleed at 20 weeks, I learned there were restrictions on which hospital I could deliver at depending on how far along I was. At 32 weeks, I can officially deliver at my preferred hospital. So yay for that!

How big is baby: a Squash. Ovia app: 

Weight Gain:  +10 lbs 

 

Stretch Marks: Nothing new.

Symptoms: Same stuff. Fatigue. I can't function for more than 1 event a day it seems. Pregnancy brain is a scary but real thing. I've also been having issues eating. Just not hungry for certain foods. Also, can't eat as much in one sitting.

Sleeping: The never ending "I can't sleep" saga continues. Insomnia is kicking my bottom.

Food cravings: Chocolate... ice cream... cookie dough...

Food aversions: None.

Maternity Clothes: I refuse to buy more maternity clothes! I am however "growing" out of my pregnancy clothes. I feel most comfortable in dresses/skirts these days, especially with the heat.

Movement: Baby boy is moving pretty consistently. Sometimes the movements are stronger than normal. At night time, I don't know what he's doing in there, but he seems to do something that just feels really uncomfortable to me. I try to move around and get into a different position, that seems to help.

What I did / Got for Baby:  

• Paper shredding. I went on a paper rampage. Paper clutter is my nemesis. Right now my filing and paper work are under control. I shredded 3 garbage bags full of papers. I still have 2 big boxes to shred, which I'll get to when I have time.
• Book purging. I went through my books and am purging 80% of them. I just need to figure out how I'm going to get them out of my house (they are heavy!).
• Estate Planning. I completed my estate planning documents! Yay for that. They were "done" -- but I made some major changes to them.
• Amazon Completion Discount. I finally became eligible for my Amazon Completion Discount on my baby registry! I was so excited about it and purchased all the things I think I "needed" to have or that the discount really helped with -- so bought it now vs. later. It was like Christmas when everything started to arrive.

What I miss: Doing more than 1 activity a day.

Workouts: decluttering counts, right?

What I'm looking forward to: Packing my hospital bag and finishing all the last minute things to prepare for baby boy.

Best moment of the week: Seeing baby boy on the ultrasound.

Rants/Raves: Rant. I hate having diabetes and I hate how "easy" everyone thinks it is to watch what I eat. If it was easy, then people wouldn't stress about it. I'm already a picky eater. I've been monitoring my food since October/November 2016 and checking my glucose levels 4-6x's a day EVERY SINGLE DAY since October. I've been giving myself insulin shots since November. It's tiring and NOT easy at all. In a perfect world, I would say "yeah, no problem." But in reality, when you have deadlines/meetings at work, you have so many medical appointments, you have all these prenatal classes, you have your kid's appointments, regular house maintenance stuff, regular family stuff, regular life stuff -- finding time to grocery shop, finding time to cook, finding time to meal plan, finding time to eat a balanced meal, making sure you eat every 2-3 hours, finding time to check my glucose levels RIGHT at 2 hour post meal -- isn't the easiest thing to do every - single - day. Some days it's impossible really... Not to mention the regular pregnant food cravings that I have. You think it's easy to crave something sooooo bad and not have it? Try being pregnant and having enough self-control to say no every single time. Think it's possible?

 

I've tried to let go of trying to be perfect because it's nearly impossible. I try to find a good balance and I try not to beat myself up if I'm not perfect. I already feel guilty that I'm hurting my baby -- so it just sucks when other people want to chime in for me to "take this seriously." Like I'm not or something. I take it very seriously, I know what the risks of diabetes in pregnancy are, but I'd rather not beat myself up when I'm not perfect or when I can't make it work. That stress/anxiety is going to be more harmful to my baby. So whatever. I'm not perfect. I'm not the perfect diabetic pregnant patient. I can't always find the time to do every single thing that I'm supposed to do. But you know what, that's OK! I wish that I can get the, "I understand" vs. the lectures. You know, that thing called "support." I think I give myself enough grief about it and don't need it from people that aren't living in my shoes.

 

The good news about the pregnancy is that despite my fluctuating glucose levels, my A1C is pretty darn good. Baby boy isn't measuring too big right now and he's looking really healthy. Just hoping that continues because the bigger he gets, the more my glucose levels are going to shift and the harder it is to maintain good glucose levels. Just to note -- this is regardless if I ate perfectly.

Appointments Next Week: I begin my weekly BPP ultrasounds and NST's next week. 

1. 4/18 OB BPP U/S
2. 4/21 OB NST 

31w+3d: MFM Follow-up, Growth Ultrasound

I had my growth ultrasound and diabetes appointment with my MFM today.

My Stats: 

• Weight: +10 lbs 
• Blood Pressure: 128/60

Baby Stats: 

• Overall Percentile: 65
• Head Percentile: 97
• Torso: 85
• Projected Weight: 4 lbs 4 oz 
• Adjusted due date: 6/3 - measuring 1 week ahead at 32w+3d 

Baby boy looks really good! Some cool things about the ultrasound: watching him practice breathing, watching him suck on his hand, and seeing him stretch. He's still head down, but not as far down as he was before. Didn't get any good pictures of him because he kept burying his face in my placenta. It's so cute watching him suck his hand :) Hoping that means that he'll take to breastfeeding!

He's measuring one week ahead, which is what he was measuring before. So, he's on track. The only issue is his torso has gotten a lot bigger, measuring in the 85th percentile. Which is totally my fault since my eating habits have been so horrid. My baby is probably floating around in sugar fluid :(  Poor thing. My MFM said that I really need to watch my food intake so it doesn't impact his growth. Right now, one week ahead is good. But we don't want to see him get over the 95th percentile in overall growth and we don't want to see his torso get into the 95th percentile.

MFM said we should know if I can try for a vaginal birth by 36 weeks or if we'll need to schedule a C-Section. If all goes well in the next few weeks, it sounds like I might be able to choose the date of induction / C-Section date, which is weird to me...! Like I would be choosing my baby's birth date or something. Yikes! In all honesty, as much as I want to meet my baby boy -- I'll keep him in there as long as the doctor's will let me and as long as it's safe. Unless he decides on his own to make an earlier appearance before induction/C-Section.

Can't believe he's estimated at being 4 lbs, 4 oz right now!

I figure, I have about 6 more weeks left of being pregnant -- I need to just suck it up and get more serious about watching what I eat. It's been hard with our schedule being so busy, we've been eating out a lot more than usual and I haven't had time to go grocery shopping in the last 2 weeks. But, things are "kinda sorta" calming down and I'll have some time this week to make a grocery pickup.

Going forward, I'm going to be seeing the MFM weekly. We really need to watch my glucose logs and make adjustments as needed. So, I'm going to go every Tuesday for my diabetes consult and have my Bio Physical Profile (BPP) ultrasound done there instead of at the OB. I'll do the NST weekly at the OB. Hopefully this will keep me to about 2 appointments a week, since I'm combining them. I'll also get another growth ultrasound in 2-4 weeks, depending how things look at the BPP's.

Glucose changes:

• Morning: Humulin N 34 iu, Humulin R 16 iu
• Evening (before meals): Humulin R 16 iu [or 18 iu if before dinner glucose is 120 or higher]
• Evening (before bed): Humulin N 54 iu

I did ask my MFM about my low PAPP-A and low HCG from my first trimester screening... like, if I should still be worried about that. Some of the risks of those test results are: pre-eclampsia, potential growth restrictions, and pre-term labor. She told me I don't need to worry about any of that -- that we would have seen something by now and everything looks good. That made me feel better and I hope she's right! 

It's kinda weird because I have the next 6 weeks booked already for the BPP ultrasound and diabetes consult. Like there are ONLY 6 weeks because I'll be having my baby at the end of all that. Seems so wild and close and starting to feel so very real...!! Very exciting to think about :) He's almost here!!! 

Next Steps: Weekly Diabetes and BPP appointments - scheduled every Tuesday until 5/23.

31w+0d: Breastfeeding Class Experience

I've been really into researching breastfeeding and being "ready" for breastfeeding. I really want breastfeeding to work. Before I was pregnant, I wasn't sure I would want to breastfeed. I know formula and I know how to make formula feeding work. Breastfeeding was a bit of a mystery and very intimidating as well.

I really enjoyed the breastfeeding class! A lactation consultant ran it and I really liked her. I took her card, just in case I want to use her in the future. She was very knowledgeable and you can tell that she loves what she does.

Most of what was covered in the class, I had already read about on forums or blogs. Nothing terribly new. The one thing that I didn't really know about was when and why new babies cluster feed. This is really good information. Also, I liked that we went over the "signs" to watch out for if baby isn't getting enough breast milk. Going over the latch was also very useful.

Here is the booklet that we went over: 

I am very excited about breastfeeding. I feel as prepared as I can be at this point. I'm glad I have a resource if I need assistance. There are also weekly lactation support groups, which I think I'm going to take advantage of once baby boy is here. 

The other really helpful thing that she went over is when to start pumping if you're going back to work, what type of nipple to use on the bottle, and when to introduce a bottle. 

Breastfeeding is a pretty amazing thing when you think about it. It's crazy what a woman's body does during pregnancy and how the woman's body adjusts to nourish a baby. 

My insurance covers a breast pump and that's where I'm at a bit of a stand-still. There are so many options, but I'm really stuck on the top 2 options: Medela and Spectrum S2. Everyone has different experiences with these pumps and there's no way to really know which would work best for me. I'm going to make a call into my insurance and see if they cover "renting" a hospital grade breast pump. If they don't, I'll make a choice between the Medela and Spectrum. 

It's funny, there's so much to breastfeeding: 

• Just getting started -- getting the latch right. Getting your supply up. 
• Learning to breastfeed in public. From clothing options to comfort to even State Laws/Protections on breastfeeding. 
• How to store breast milk. 
• All the supplies you need for pumping. 
• Going back to work and pumping supplies you'll need. How often to pump, how much you need to pump, etc. 
• Managing daycare and supply. 

It's like a whole new world! I'm probably over thinking it, but right now all I can do is try to plan for things as best as I could. Luckily, I have the daycare and work pumping figured out. Just need to figure out the breast pump. Just hoping all goes well with getting started and that I learn to breastfeed in public comfortably.

I hope I'm able to manage blogging post-baby, so I can track how things go with breastfeeding. Will see! 

31 Weeks Pregnant - Entering my 8th Month

How far along: 31 weeks, officially entering my 8th month! I have 6-7 weeks (42-49 days) to go for potential delivery between 37-38 weeks.

How big is baby: Asparagus or cabbage. Ovia app: 

Weight Gain:  +8 lbs 

Stretch Marks: Nothing new. 

Symptoms: I experienced some reflux this week --- so, so gross!!! Very gassy. Also, I got this really weird "twitch" on my left thumb for one day. It just kept twitching uncontrollably. Can be related to pregnancy carpal tunnel or it could be that the baby was sitting on a nerve? Who knows. It hasn't come back since that day. 

Sleeping: Insomnia galore...!! Ugh. Naps are my friend though, when I manage to actually fall asleep. 

Food cravings: Coffee and chocolate. My baby boy is going to have funny taste buds. 

Food aversions: None. 

Maternity Clothes: Some of my regular clothes that were working in the pregnancy aren't working that well anymore. Also, my maternity pants aren't feeling that comfortable anymore -- something about where they hit on my stomach at the bottom, making it feel squished. I refuse to buy more maternity pants this close to the end of the pregnancy! Fingers crossed I can manage with my wardrobe. 

Movement: I think I've felt the baby hiccup this week! There were a few days where I felt a constant little bump for a few minutes. Kinda cool! He still has some very strong movements and I'm feeling his legs under my ribs more. I think it's getting a bit tight in there for him. 

What I did / Got for Baby: I Pre-registered at the hospital online! Yay for that. 

What I miss: Having a normal brain. Pregnancy brain is a real thing and it's soooo annoying! 

Workouts: sadly, no. 

What I'm looking forward to: My growth ultrasound and to qualify for my Amazon completion discount, which I become eligible for next week!! 

Best moment of the week: Seeing baby boy on the elective ultrasound. 

Rants/Raves: Rant. I have so many appointments! It's getting harder to juggle everything. 

Rave. It's nice to have friends willing to help me watch my son so I can take all these weekend classes! I really appreciate the help and my son has so much fun hanging with them. 

Appointments Next Week: 4/11 MFM Growth Ultrasound and Diabetes Discussion. Getting my DTAP shot as well. 

30w+6d: Elective 3D/4D Ultrasound, Take 2

I had the re-do of my Elective 3D/4D Ultrasound. Unfortunately, it didn't go any differently than the first time! Baby boy likes to bury his face in my placenta, so it's hard to get any face pictures. He moved his body around, but refused to move his face out of the placenta. Maybe that means he'll be a cuddle bear once he's born? :) He's also pretty far down in my pelvis, maybe making it harder for him to move around? Not sure.

So, no cool amazing pictures of his little face. We were able to get some left-side pictures of his face, but nothing on the right.

The video was pretty cool though, since you could see him moving a bit. I got to see him yawn and stretch and see him punch me! Got to see his cute cheek, which looks like it'll be very pinch-able :)

In hindsight, doing the elective U/S was not really worth it for me! I guess if I got the face pictures I hoped for, I would've thought it was worth it.

Oh well, not what I expected - but still glad I got the video!

30w+6d: First Antenatal Therapist Appointment

I had my official first therapy appointment for antenatal depression. I didn't really have time to think about the appointment prior to going and had no expectations going in. I'm basically getting treated for Anxiety and for Depression related to pre-natal depression.

I'm not sure how open I'll be about my therapy sessions on this blog... I'll have to see what my comfort level is as I go along. For this first session, it was mostly discussing my situation with my mother. Since there are a lot of complications with our relationship and her interest in my life is really new to me since we reconnected in December. Plus, she's coming to help with the baby -- and I have major worries about how that's going to go, especially considering our history.

The therapy session went ok for the most part. I'm glad I'm getting the help now vs. waiting until postpartum. I'm hoping that it'll give me the tools and resources to deal with PPD if I end up experiencing it. I also hope to avoid taking any medications postpartum, if the therapy sessions help.

The goal is to meet every 2 weeks. However, she was totally booked for the rest of April, so I couldn't schedule an appointment until May.

Next Steps: Appointments scheduled for May 5 and May 19.

30w+5d: Hospital Tour!

I was really looking forward to my hospital tour. But sometimes things don't always turn out as expected.

The actual tour was great. We were able to tour the delivery room and the postpartum room. Each person starts in the triage room to monitor contractions and to wait for a room to become available. Only one person can stay in triage with you. No need to tour that room since I became intimately familiar with it the first time I went to L&D in January.

The delivery room is huge! Some rooms have a labor tub, if it doesn't have one -- they can bring a portable tub in. You basically labor and delivery in this room & stay in there for about 2 hours after baby is delivered. My hospital is a "baby friendly" hospital, meaning they really emphasize mother - baby bonding, immediate skin-to-skin, and breastfeeding. You can have as many people as you want in the delivery room, but only one person can stay the night.

We also toured the postpartum room. It's a lot smaller, but has all the basic things you need. Both rooms have a couch that pulls out into a bed. They have a TV that controls everything: AC, lights, TV, music, etc.

For a vaginal birth you would stay 24-48 hours after delivery. I'm assuming I'll need to stay closer to the 48 hour mark due to my diabetes. They'll have to monitor baby boy's glucose levels & I'm really hoping for no major complications, but it can extend the stay.

So... the reasons the tour wasn't so joyful.

1) I got a suspicious look from the check-in lady when I was signing in. ALL the other pregnant ladies were obviously pregnant, they were all pretty big and had beautiful D-shaped, round, bellies. The outfit I wore hid my pregnancy (not intentional). I just look like I have a big gut. So, she was like "can I help you?" and was surprised when I said I was there for the tour. She tried to hide it! But I noticed it none-the-less and it bothered me. I have some bump-envy and some insecurities about the way my bump looks. Maybe I'll write another entry just on that one of these days.

2) I brought my son with me. I was the only one to bring a child. Going into the hospital tour, I thought it'd be a great idea to bring him so that he can visit the hospital prior to baby brother being born, get familiar with it. I've read some blogs that say this is a good idea. And maybe it was for them? Also, I had logistical issues -- I would've needed a babysitter for him if he didn't come with me and the hospital only does tours on weekday evenings.

I really tried to prep my son with, "We are visiting the hospital that baby brother will be born at" etc etc. He seemed excited. I tried to setup the expectations on how he was to behave...

My curious son... and his attention seeking social self... was a bit much for me to handle during the tour and he frustrated me, that I could hardly pay attention to anything being said since I was so focused on making sure he didn't get out of control.

I even held him, even though I'm not supposed to (he's above my allotted weight limit to carry), and that didn't even help control him much. He even said to me when I was trying to contain him, "That hurt! Don't hurt me." Ugh. Of course I didn't hurt him, he was being drama -- but how embarrassing having all those other couples there and my kid being loud and obnoxious, then saying something like that to me... then he started crying because he didn't like the way I picked him up --> making it even harder for others to hear things on the tour.

There's not many times when I feel like crap being a single mom and normally I don't get embarrassed at things like this. Kids are kids and my son is 3. He was acting just like any other 3 year old would. But the tour was only 30 minutes and I guess I expected him to act more appropriately -- he hardly ever acts crazy like that in public. Lately though, his public outbursts have been increasing in intensity. It's hard for me to contain him since I have physical limits (can't pick him up). I think 3 year olds can "smell" weakness and he knows he can get away with more! LOL.

Also, I guess I had this "expectation" on how the tour would go and that it would be this wonderful experience. Instead, it turned into a struggle with my son :( Luckily since I took the birthing class, I already knew everything there was to know. It was good to see the rooms in-person, so I know what to expect on the big day.

30w+4d: Bi-Weekly OB Visit

I had my bi-weekly OB appointment today. Was a pretty quick appointment. My stats:

• Weight: +8 lbs
• Blood Pressure: 122/72
• Fetal Heart Rate: 140 bpm
• Fundal Height: measuring at 32 weeks

This was the first time I remember the OB measuring my fundal height. Here is a description of it:

I did talk to my OB about the possibility of me having a vaginal birth. She said that the reason they normally will induce diabetic pregnancies between 37-38 weeks is so that there is a chance for the baby to come out vaginally and not need a C-Section. After 38 weeks, it becomes more likely for a C-Section because the babies are normally bigger than the average. 

I asked her what the chances of the induction working vs. not working. I think that was my biggest concern when I was taking birthing class -- is that an induction won't work and lead to a C-Section. My OB said that most of the time the inductions work. Which is good news, so maybe I have a shot at a vaginal birth after all?! She did say that the labor can be longer and more uncomfortable because there are so many interventions, but that it is a good possibility that it could work. 

Now, this is keeping in mind that baby boy doesn't get too big -- meaning his shoulders don't become wider than his head. Last growth ultrasound he was measuring in the 43rd percentile and his shoulders were a normal size. Will have to see how next week's growth ultrasound goes and see if he's still within the same range or not. 

I felt really good thinking that I may in fact be able to have a vaginal birth after all! However, we're looking at 7-8 more weeks of baby boy growing -- so I realize that it might change... So, I'm not getting my hopes up on it just yet -- but I do think I'll practice some labor breathing just in case I end up in a long labor and can get to that vaginal birth that I so hope for. 

In 2 weeks (when I'll be 32 weeks), I'm going to be having two weekly appointments: 1) Non-Stress Test (NST) and 2) Ultrasound called Bio Physical Profile (BPP). The way the appointments go, I'll go in for the NST or BPP, then I'll meet with the OB afterwards to discuss the results. Looking at 40-60 minute appointments each. I'll be rotating where I have my NST and BPP at, depending if I have an MFM visit that week or not -- I want to try to combine as many as possible so I don't end up with 3 visits a week. Argh. Getting down to the wire here...!! 

This appointment was kind of nice because I didn't have much to talk about! It's nice just having a boring section of my pregnancy for a change and not being too worried about things. It was also kinda weird going into the OB's office and actually "looking" pregnant! It took me so long to look pregnant, that I remember when I first starting going to the OB office and seeing the obviously pregnant ladies and thinking "Man, I can't wait to get that far" -- and here I am, closer to the end of my pregnancy than the beginning... Baby boy is almost here!!!! 

There are times that I still can't believe this is all happening, that I'm not just dreaming, that baby boy will truly be here soon. Such a blessing. I can't wait to meet my little miracle baby boy. 

Next Steps: 

1. 4/18: BPP with OB
2. 4/21: NST with OB

30w+0d: Express Birthing Class Experience

I had my all-day Express Birthing class yesterday. It was easier for me to do a one-day course vs. doing a 4-week course during the work week.

I was extremely anxious for the birthing class! I was a little concerned about going by myself and doing the "partner" exercises solo. But I needn't have worried as they skipped all partner exercises since we were short on time. Yay for small concessions.

There were 10 couples, 1 lady who attended alone (her husband was sick), and me. It's interesting because they had a dentist hygienist come and visit the class. Also, they had someone from the library come and talk to us about the importance of reading to your child.

The Good:

• I really liked that experienced nurses taught the course. They shared a lot of their own personal experiences which was nice to hear. 
• I liked that they provided what will happen at the hospital I was delivering at. 
• I feel like I understand the medical interventions better. 
• I feel like I understand how the different types of births work. 
• They passed around examples of everything that is used during birth. 
• They went over how to care for your privates after a vaginal birth. 

The Bad: 

• I knew most of what they went over and maybe knew more than what they even covered. 
• They basically covered everything in the book, which I could've just read on my own instead of spending all day there. 

Here is the book that they went over. What's nice about this book is that you can go online and download forms and look at the videos on your own. There was a lot that they skimmed over and didn't go through in details, so I'm looking forward to being able to browse on my own. 

I cried when they showed births. I tried not to... but it was just so beautiful watching these little babies come into the world. I couldn't help but think that my baby boy would be entering this world in 7-8 weeks when I'll get to see him for the very first time and hear his sweet cry. Luckily, I wasn't the only one crying! LOL. 

Some things I didn't like: 

• They referred to the support person as the "husband." You'd think in this day and age that they would just refer to the support person in general terms. They really made a big fuss about the husband's role. They also made a big deal about the role of the "father" -- which again, you'd think they'd be sensitive to those that do not have a father involved in the pregnancy. 
• They also referred to the vagina as "this is how you got here." But they didn't take into account those that had to do fertility treatments to get pregnant. I met another couple that got pregnant through fertility treatments and actually used my RE! I think they should be sensitive to these types of things. 

Maybe these aren't the "norms," but there are so many types of families out there these days and it can be isolating by only referring to traditional families, especially if you have families in the class that don't fit that mold. 

Types of Births and My Thoughts:

Natural Birth. I may not get to have a natural birth... If I end up having to deliver between 37 and 38 weeks, I may not be a good candidate for induction. First time pregnancies normally take longer to go into labor naturally. This makes me really sad... I would love to go into labor naturally and go through all the stages of labor. I just don't really see that happening for me. Then there's induction. If things don't look good, an induction may not work. Which I've heard before, but now I totally understand the process better and if things don't line-up properly, I'll end up with a C-Section in the end anyways. 

The one thing that scared me about a Natural Birth was dealing with the labor pains. I was thinking I wanted to read more on relaxation techniques and breathing exercises... but knowing what I know now -- it might just be a waste of time since I may not be able to experience this type of birth in the end. I have to see how things play out in the next few weeks with my growth ultrasounds and NSTs, to see what my OB/MFM will suggest for birth. But a scheduled C-Section, due to medical needs, might be the best route for me and my baby. 

Medicated Birth. The epidural isn't so scary anymore. I still wouldn't prefer one, but it's good to know it's available if needed. I also liked that they covered other types of pain management medication. 

C-Section. I wish I knew LESS about C-Sections at this point... They scare the crap out of me. But this is my most likely route to giving birth at this point. I'm going to try not to think about it too much and just do as my doctors suggest and hope for no huge complications. I want what's best for my baby and if a C-Section will be healthiest for both of us -- so be it. But if things line up to avoid it, I will definitely try! 

All of this to know that I may not have the birth I desire. I'm back and forth on whether to even do a birthing plan, as I feel like it might not even matter. 

Anyways. I am glad I took the class and received more information my hospital and more information on types of births. I'm also excited at the idea that I'm going to meet my baby boy really soon....!!!! 

30 Weeks Pregnant

How far along: 30 weeks, 8 weeks (56 days) until possible delivery at 38 weeks. I might have "waddled" for the first time this week... My stomach has definitely grown! But it still doesn't have that pretty D shape, which I'm not sure I will ever get. 

How big is baby: a Zucchini. Ovia app: 

Weight Gain: +7 lbs 

Stretch Marks: Nothing new. 

Symptoms: Nothing new. 

Sleeping: Nothing new. 

Food cravings: Chocolate is THE thing... and so are Lucky Charms! Oh man... so tempting and bad for me. 

Food aversions: Nope.  

Maternity Clothes: My maternity pants are feeling not so comfy lately... I'm hoping I can manage to make it through the rest of the pregnancy without wasting money buying new ones as I've worn these ones into the ground. I might just have to switch to skirts/dresses full time really soon. 

Movement: Baby boy's movements have been pretty strong this week. They are so strong, that sometimes they wake me up in the middle of the night because I feel someone poking me in my arm (when my arm is laying on my tummy). LOL. I wish I was able to "catch" it more, as there are no predictable patterns and I haven't really been able to show my son yet. I've also been trying to get a video of my tummy moving, but of course - once I turn it on he gets quiet! 

What I did / Got for Baby: I'm having a nesting issue! I want to do-do-do, but there's nothing to do-do-do right now! Argh. It's frustrating. 

1. I've been researching breastfeeding a lot and even talked to my daycare about the process with breastmilk. It was nice to hear that I can go during lunch time to breastfeed the baby if I want! I might do that on days I work from home... will see. 
2. I'm planning my L&D Nurses gifts -- but too early to put them together or buy everything. But I have a plan! I'll post a separate entry about this when I actually make them.
3. I've been thinking about my hospital bag and contemplating when to pack it... I'm making a list and I'm sure my list is way too long and I don't really need all that crap. I'll also post a separate entry on this when I start putting it together... maybe at about ??32 weeks??, which isn't that far away! 
4. I've been thinking about when to install my car seat! Trying to just stay calm and wait until the beginning of May. I don't think I'll last that long though. I want to get my car detailed and all clean before putting it in though, so need to put that on my calendar somewhere. 
5. I've been thinking about my maternity pictures and am going to purchase a pretty new dress JUST for the pictures... oh my. I hate spending money for a dress that will only be good for ONE thing, but it's so very pretty... I'll post a separate entry on this as well after I figure out my outfits. 
6. I received my Lillebaby carrier this week! Woohoo! I'm liking the back support. 

What I miss: Having more energy. 

Workouts: This is how tired I get... I brought my son to a fire station grand opening in town. He had a GREAT time and keeps talking about going back. Well, we were on our feet for almost 2 hours straight. No biggie normally... but man, I felt like I was beat up and was completely exhausted afterward. Not just from being on my feet, but having to keep up with my son's toddler-tudes and all. He even threw himself on the ground at one point in a full-out tantrum (which hardly ever happens with him). I was so tired at that point, that I just looked at him and walked away. He followed quickly and turned his attitude around, but I just didn't have it in me to deal with a 3 yo screaming on the ground at that moment. 

Working out? Good in theory. But if I can't even stay on my feet for a long period of time and I get winded so easily, it makes it hard to be motivated to workout. Not to mention scheduling issues and just general life-busy stuff. Props to the pregnant ladies that make it work! I try not to compare myself to other pregnant moms that are able to maintain a workout schedule while pregnant. The reality of taking care of my 3 year old, all his appointments, all my appointments, my work schedule, house responsibilities -- it's just not in the cards for me. I wish I could be super mom and "make" it work somehow, but I've learned that its not always possible unfortunately. 

I am starting to think about post-baby and a workout schedule.Just to think, it'll be the first time I'll NOT be on any fertility meds or pregnant -- since maybe my hysteroscopy surgery in February 2015?!! Crazy to think about being medicated for so long. I used to be really good at working out pre-fertility treatments. I'm really hoping to find a good balance after we get into a routine after baby boy is here. 

What I'm looking forward to: The repeat elective ultrasound. Hoping baby boy cooperates this time! 

Best moment of the week: The week feels like a big blur, not sure if there was a "best moment" for the week really. 

Rants/Raves: Sorry for another rant. My son got sick again this week, strep throat AGAIN. It was a lot worse this time, as his throat hurt him so bad -- that he kept spitting, wouldn't eat/drink, and would just cry. Not to mention he had a fever and Tylenol / Ibuprofen didn't even help much. It was pretty horrible for him and for me. Getting strep throat 2x's in 3 months is highly concerning and hoping there's not a bigger issue coming up. 

Appointments Next Week: I think going forward I will have one or two appointments minimum. Next week is packed with appointments. 

1. 4/5 Bi-Weekly OB Appointment 
2. 4/7 Therapist Appointment for Antenatal Depression 
3. 4/7 3D-4D Elective Ultrasound Re-do. 
4. 4/8 Breastfeeding Class