New Friends at School

Our NCT Antenatal classes started last night. We chose to go with the NCT (rather than the NHS) in an effort to meet other couples/new parents in our neighborhood. Mission accomplished! 

There were 7 other preggo mamas, three of which brought their other halves (Andrew thought he was going to be the only one there for awhile). The class shows exactly how international Kensington is as there was only one British mama there (no Brit men either). The were two Iranian Mamas, which I really liked, a Brit mama, a Russian mama, an Irish mama, a German mama and an Italian Mama. I was the furthest along by a few weeks, yet the smallest belly! Iranian Mama Tannaz is due the day after me and she is twice as big as me... Had I not been to the midwives earlier yesterday, I would have been more worried. I am looking good to go - everything is as it should be! Baby Girl even turned around as of yesterday, she's no longer breech :) 

But Antenatal class was sobering to say the least. We brainstormed questions we have about birth and labor and then the stages of labor. I didn't realise all the turning involved of the baby when you push her out and the "transition" phase I am not really looking forward to (the one they show on TV where the moms freak out and curse at the dad and say they can't do it). Perhaps I am completely in denial, but I really do not think labor will be as bad as I keep reading about/hearing. I am hopeful! Probably foolish... 

 

In the UK, you should not go to the hospital until your contractions are strong and 3 minutes apart or they will send you home! The majority of your first stage of labor will be done at home, which I kind of like because for first babies, the first stage can take 6 - 20 hours! YIKES! I didn't realise the pushing part can take 1-2 hours... SO MUCH INFORMATION! 

The next class is Saturday where we will talk about "Coping with Labor" - you aren't supposed to say the dirty P word... PAIN - and I am supposed to research a pain relief method that appeals to me... I'm choosing epidural! From what I have read so far, I will not use any other pain meds because of the side effects that I will surely feel - nausea and vomiting... i mean, who wants all that while you are in the middle of labor?!

Another takeaway - research Hypnobirthing. Apparently, mothers who use this technique remember the experience more positively.  Never heard of it.

They definitely promote Natural Birth here, even though they say their primary goal is to give us information. I must say... I am starting to drink the Koolaide. But I am told if I insist on an epidural, that I can have one... whew! 

The cutest part of Antenatal Class? There will be a reunion in September where we get pictures of all the babies together! Jean, our teacher, showed us some previous class pics last night... soooo sweet! 

Sample Reunion Pic

My MASSIVE to Do List

I've been emailing with my friend Amy who is due with Baby #2 in like 2 weeks! She has made me sobering aware that I have not done much in preparation for what's coming. I mean, I hit 34 weeks tomorrow... I should really be buckling down and taking this seriously! 

I did a little searching this morning and this is apparently the To-Do list I should be working from: 

Learn about third-trimester prenatal visits and tests 

You'll most likely have a checkup every two weeks from 28 to 36 weeks, then switch to once-a-week visits until you deliver. 

I have a Midwife appt today so hopefully I'll get a better idea of what to expect!

Consider more classes 

In addition to a childbirth class, you may want to consider classes on baby care, breastfeeding, and infant CPR. Many hospitals offer these, and you can also ask your caregiver or childbirth education teacher for a recommendation.

Our Antenatal Classes start tonight! I definitely want to take a pediatric emergency medicine course as well... it's the girl scout in me! 

Prepare for breastfeeding

 

The midwives gave me a video to watch. I should probably get on that. Although, I have watched several coaching videos on youtube... No sweat, I got this ;) 

Choose a doctor for your baby

Today I plan to ask how this works in the UK. I am assuming I would go to my normal GP, but I want to make sure they will provide the same vaccinations as in the States. I am definitely pro-vaccinating my baby.

Think about big decisions

Lucky for me (thanks to my loving husband) I will be staying home with the baby for awhile. I am also thinking about donating her cordblood - maybe it will help someone in need?

Assemble your baby gear

* The pram is assembled (stroller) and ready to go. 

* The crib, I think I may do that this week some time. 

* The changer won't be delivered until the 26th of May... that may be a project for Andrew.

* We were going to hold off on getting the car seat, but it seems to be becoming more and more necessary with our plans over the next few months. 

* I'm obsessed with the nap nanny. I will need to get this too. 

Not sure what other gear I am leaving out!  

Set up a safe place for your baby to sleep

Baby girl will be sleeping in our room through the summer. I definitely want to make sure I am up on my info to prevent SIDs.

 Learn about coping with labor pain
 

There's no one right way to deliver a baby: Every woman's experience with pain is different and every labor is different. But whether you know you want pain medication during childbirth or a natural birth, it's good to learn about your options now.

I have briefly read about this. My gut is telling me to go as far as I can naturally, but always have the option of an epidural! The thing is here, the Midwives really don't want you to have the epidural because then a doctor has to be involved - they can't take the lead anymore. The other pain management options don't really appeal to me.

Know the stages of labor
 

For first-time moms, labor takes an average of 15 hours, though it's not uncommon to last more than 20. (For women who've previously had a vaginal birth, it averages eight hours.) The process is divided into three main stages.

Hmm... better get on this because all my daily app announcements keep warning me of the signs of early labor... not psyched about that. 

Create a birth plan

Childbirth is unpredictable, and chances are you won't follow your birth plan to the letter. Still, it's helpful to figure out your preferences for pain management techniques, who'll be present during delivery, whether your baby will "room in" with you after birth, and more beforehand. 

Wash your baby's clothing and bedding

Check!

Start lining up helpers 

My mom is coming for 7 weeks! Whew!

Commemorate your belly

Some nice bump pictures would be good... Maybe next weekend?

Consider top baby costs and how to save 

I should definitely look into this more... I'm hoping breastfeeding as long as possible will severely reduce these!

Read up on baby care
 

I have What to Expect: The First Year. I'm ready! ooh.. AND the Hot Mamas Handbook. Sorted. 

Pack your bag for the hospital or birth center

Key things to bring include your insurance card, toiletries, comfy clothing, a going-home outfit for your baby, a camera or video camera (plus charger!), and snacks for after labor. You may also want to bring a box of chocolates or other treat for the nurses (not required, but appreciated!).

I will have to think about this a bit more...

Have your house cleaned 

Hoping Andrew and my mom will help me with this!

Stock up on household supplies 

To avoid having to make trips to the store with your newborn, stock up now on pantry staples, frozen food, toiletries, medicine, toilet paper, shampoo – even extra pairs of underwear! And of course, make sure you have newborn necessities like diapers, wipes, baby clothing, and bottles and formula if you plan to use these.

Great advice.

Make food for after your baby's born

Hmm... our freezer is the size of a shoe box. Hoping my mom will help with this! 

Install your baby's car seat 

Still trying to figure out how we will get home from the hospital. It's only a 10 minute walk but I have a feeling I will NOT be up to walking. 

Tour your hospital or birth center 

Yes... still need to do this...

Make a plan for when labor starts 

Long before the first contractions hit, you'll want a firm plan in place. Your doctor or midwife should give you a clear set of guidelines for when to call and – unless you're having a home birth – when to head to the hospital or birth center. Decide who will take you there, and have a few back-up folks lined up to help if you need it. Know the route you'll take – this may sound silly, but it will be one fewer thing to think about. This includes learning where to park and which entrance to use when it's 

time to check yourself in.

Create an online birth announcement

This will be fun! I think I will do this and set it up so I just need to pop in the picture when she's here! 

Look out for late-pregnancy complications 

Unfortunately, pregnancy complications pop up in the third trimester, too – including premature labor and preeclampsia. Be on the lookout for symptoms that warrant a call to your doctor or midwife.

Great...

Find baby name inspiration

Check! We are pretty set here :)

Slow down

Toward the end of your pregnancy, slow down and save up your energy for labor day (and beyond). If you've been sitting or lying down for a long time, don't jump up too quickly. Blood can pool in your feet and legs, causing a temporary drop in your blood pressure when you get up that can make you feel dizzy.

I think I will send this one to Andrew. He is forever dragging me all over the place! 

Learn what your body will be like after birth
 

This is the most disturbing reading I've been doing. I need to explore this one a lot more.

Stock up on light entertainment

Now's not the time to start Moby Dick or War and Peace. Instead, pick up some magazines and not-too-challenging novels, buy DVDs of your favorite TV shows or find them online, or fill your DVR. Once your baby arrives, you'll be too sleep-deprived and busy to watch entire movies or do serious reading – but you'll be glad to have easy, quick ways to get an entertainment fix when you get the chance.

Don't panic if you go past your due date

Easier said than done! I'm ready to have this baby now! 

Well, if that isn't daunting, I don't know what is! 

Babymooning in Crete!

 
Andrew and I got back from Greece yesterday and I am happy to report NO babies in Greece (which of course was my ultimate fear as flying - well, dehydration caused by flying - can lead to preterm labor)! 

We spent a glorious week in Crete, Greece at the Thompson Sensatori resort. It was a GOOD lesson for us in traveling with kids because I think everyone else on our flight (and then on our resort) had at least one baby with them. 

Top lessons I learned from watching their experiences: 

1. It is good to bring a set of grandparents along. 

2. Even the best babies will scream on a plane for no apparent reason. 

3. After 3 kids, you are just making it REALLY hard for yourself.
 
4. Not sure I would ever get a double stroller (when Baby #2 comes) - they are massive and don't fit easily everywhere. 

But Andrew and I had an amazing babymoon. Just relaxed, ate and relaxed some more. The only place you could get internet access was if you were in reception (nothing in the rooms and it was spotty by the pool) so you were REALLY cut off from the world! I have to say, I didn't really mind it! Unfortunately, I am not very tan. I actually felt nauseous if I was in the sun for too long and I really didn't want to overheat. I think baby girl will have my skin coloring though. She danced all around when the sun would hit my belly - a natural sunbather!
 
Andrew actually ran and went to the gym everyday... I on the other hand ate, read in my lounge chair, ate again, read in my lounge chair, showered and then ate again. Although I looked like a beached whale in my bathing suit I have to say, it was pretty cool not worrying one bit what I looked like in it! 
 
I was a little bad in Greece and broke some of the pregnancy eating rules - how can you not have a little feta in Greece?! That was the only rule I really broke I guess. Well, that and eating tons of Tzatiki... I doubt that yoghurt was pasteurised but what can you do... 

The BEST day was my birthday! We rented a convertible and drove around the east bit of the island for the day. We started in Agios Nikolaos and then making our way north to Plaka which was my FAVORITE place we went! We parked and walked to the water to find a lunch spot. This fabulous little Greek man sold us on the first place we walked by with all their fresh catches - mainly the grilled calamari - and then he showed me a live crayfish that was the size of a lobster and twice as fat! 

We had Tzatiki, the grilled calamari, a greek salad, some olives and garlic bread. The best part though was that this little outdoor restaurant was built on a little cliff over looking the water! It was absolutely breathtaking and the best food we had, hands down, the entire trip. 

We really enjoyed ourselves and each other. I am very relieved to be home with no baby issues...the end is getting close!  

 

How far along? 33 Weeks

Total weight gain: 24 lbs 

 

Maternity clothes? Dresses mostly these days. Even maternity pants aren't as comfy... Anything that pushes on my bladder is a no no! 

Stretch marks? Nope. WHEW!

 

Sleep: Sleeping OK. I am quite comfy on my back but I know that's not acceptable when this far along so I constantly have to move myself! I really hate sleeping on my side.

Best moment this week:  Not having the baby in Greece :) Also feeling her move regularly. She has never really been a kicker. She's more of a flopper and I am starting to feel little feet stretch up into my ribs! 

 

Miss Anything? Wine, REALLY good non-pasteurised cheese, proscuitto and sushi. 

 

Movement:Lots. Mostly when I'm sitting though. She seems to really enjoy stretching her legs and she gets the hiccups a lot! She also doesn't like if I'm sitting and then lean forward. She flips out a bit.

Food cravings: Food. I just want to eat all the time. ALL the time.

 

Anything making you queasy or sick: Still not psyched about ground beef.

 

Gender: Baby girl
 

Labor Signs: No. I'm a bit worried about preterm labor for some unjustified reason.

 

Symptoms: I didn't have heartburn this week! Any time I walk around, I literally have to pee every 20 minutes... max. It's getting REALLY annoying. I'm sleepy all the time too. 

Belly Button in or out? Still considered in. I don't know that I will get an outtie, but it's sure close.

Wedding rings on or off? On. My fingers and face haven't really swelled/put on weight.
 

Happy or Moody most of the time: Very very happy :) 

 

Looking forward to:  Going to the midwives tomorrow and seeing what's up! I've got a birth plan to write... no one has talked to me about the birth yet... I just feel like there's a lot to look forward to! We also start our Antenatal Classes tomorrow. Should be interesting!

My pram!

My Pram came!! After long evening of online price comparison, we finally found a good deal on the bugaboo bee and purchased along with the cocoon for newborns. 

It took a little while to get to us. Originally we had decided on Blue (as it is fairly gender neutral so can be used again with the next baby) but they ran out of blue so we went with red. I loved it in yellow, but Andrew brought up a good point - you would see dirt and stains more on the yellow. The cocoon, we had to go with black or wait a few more weeks for new stock to come in. As I am an instant gratification person, I went with black. 

It's super cute! Very maneuverable. Love it. There will be a baby in there soon! 

Spoiler alert: We may have decided on a name but it will be a secret until D-Day! 

 

The Nesting Begins!

It's official. I've hit nesting mode! I usually look forward to lounging around and watching trashy TV on my weekends, but this past weekend, Andrew and I did the complete opposite!


We spent several hours on Saturday completely purging and restructuring our closets. I would like to thank the maintanence guys that forced our hand a bit with this one (having removed and put back in an interesting way EVERYTHING in my closet). By the end, we had 6 trashbags full of giveaways that we took to Oxfams, which is a great organisation that helps combat poverty. I still need to go through my "summer bins" that are up in storage, but it's coming along!


As my reward, we went ahead and ordered our changing table/dresser unit to store baby girl's massive new wardrobe in! I really wanted white and something that was solid wood (not particle board) so we ended up ordering it here in the UK - which was super hard to find something nice for a decent price - thank you Homebase! Here she is:

I would've loved to have gotten the whole set, but we just don't have room right now.


And then Sunday, we went through the rest of the flat and cleaned, cleaned, cleaned! Left of my to-do list? Go through Summer bins, clear out and get rid of the dresser in our bedroom (to make room for baby crib), get rid of the desk in the backroom. I'm sure a million more things will come up, but baby steps right? I can't wait for the baby stuff to find a proper home! 

30 Weeks

It's the final countdown! 30 weeks down, 10 to go! 


Weeks 29 & half of 30 I spent at home in La Plata with the fam (thus no pictures/updates). I had my wonderful baby shower and finally bought some proper maternity clothes because my regular ones are looking super inappropriate mostly because they are really short! Old navy has really cute maxi dresses. My style has been maxi dress, cropped cardi and a long necklace (distracts the eye). I must say, I think it works! 


But week 30 has been amazing because I REALLY feel baby girl move all the time now. She's really gentle so if I'm moving around, I don't always feel her, but when I sit, I start getting little feet stretching out on my right side. Well, what I think are little feet. 


I got a really nice baby names book while we were home and in the BA Lounge while waiting to board, Andrew FINALLY started talking names with me :) We still have VERY different preferences, but we have a small list of names that neither of us flat out rejected! Progress. Do I think I will get my dream name? No. BUT I'm trying to see the benefit of others since I did not make Baby Girl on my own. The book suggests trying out the different names - calling her by a single name for the whole day to see how we like the sound of it. I think we may try that technique this week to see if we can start narrowing the list a bit more - maybe seeing if Andrew will come around to my top choices ;) 

How far along? 30 Weeks

Total weight gain: 19 lbs 

 Maternity clothes? I have given in to the dark side. I am sitting here in a lovely H&M MAMA sweater with little suede elbow patches as I type. I also have some cute maternity maxis from Old Navy. I am just far too big for regular clothes.

Stretch marks? Nope. WHEW!

Sleep: Sleeping Ok. My shoulders fall asleep when I lay on one side for too long, but I am SO tired these days that I don't think I could sleep any harder if I tried. I even take naps every now and then! I've never napped in my life.

Best moment this week:  The 4D scan! Her little face is SO cute and everything looks really good. I can't wait to meet her!

Miss Anything? Wine again. I would really like a tiny glass today... lol. But I won't!

Movement: Big girl moving now! There's no doubt about it when I feel her, I definitely feel her. She kicks/pokes/stretches mostly on my lower right side. Love it!

Food cravings: Cheese. Butter. All things fattening... 

Anything making you queasy or sick: Ground beef. I don't like strong smells of any kind really. Cleaning products are NOT my friend.

Gender: Baby girl
 

Labor Signs: No.

Symptoms: Everything I eat gives me heartburn. Everything. My back hurts when I sit or stand for too long. My feet hurt after I'm done cooking dinner. My body is not liking this extra weight.

Belly Button in or out? In. Barely. It's really weird.

Wedding rings on or off? On.
 

Happy or Moody most of the time: Very very happy :) 

Looking forward to:  Getting the last of my baby things! We ordered the changing table over the weekend and will be getting the pram in the next few weeks. I just want to be all organised and ready for my little nugget! She's going to be here in no time!  

State Side Baby Shower!

Andrew and I went home on Friday, March 30th for my final trip to the States before Baby Girl gets here. The very next day we had a wonderful baby shower hosted by Steph, Aunt Marianne, Molly Simpson and Carol Mullen! 


I have only been to a handful of baby showers in my life, but I can't imagine many are much nicer than mine was! I was so so touched by how many people came! Andrew's mom and sister flew in from Texas, Steph came in from Hoboken, Ashley and Emily from Baltimore, Eileen from Arlington, Aunt Cris and Aunt Conchita in from Virgina and West Virgina, Aunt Marianne from Florida - all just for me and Andrew! 


My Aunt and Carol made ALL the food for the shower which was just amazing! I tried to wear a pretty pink dress for the occasion (and going along with the theme) but an hour in, I had already dropped some cheesy deliciousness on the front and ruined all photo opps afterwards. Typical me...


I loved catching up with all my friends and family that came. I can't say it enough, I was so so touched by how many people were there. And then it was present time. All I can say is I will have the best dressed baby in London! We got so many clothes that I'm unsure whether she will even be able to wear all of them! Here are a few snipits of the day! 

Holy Presents!

Me and my beautiful Mom mom

Will always have a special place in my heart for these girls!

Andrew's mom and Celine stayed until Sunday afternoon and it was so great to be able to spend the extra time with them. My whole trip home was so amazing - family, friends, Target...America is a great place. It made me REALLY homesick, but at least I have a lot to look forward to back in London! I had a major reality check when everyone kept saying "the next time I see you, you will have a baby with you!" Absolute craziness. I feel like such an adult!