tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35112962742600949402024-03-05T20:38:18.557+10:00Butterfly DreamsKathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.comBlogger187125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-36750822120801763422011-02-01T16:48:00.000+10:002011-02-01T16:48:32.181+10:00Munchkin LandSo it's farewell to this beautiful blog again, thank you so much to everyone who has followed our journey and wished us well. It means more than words can describe xo<br />
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I'll be updating now in my blog <a href="http://www.visitmunchkinland.blogspot.com/">Munchkin Land</a>, but for privacy reasons I have it set to invite only. If you would like to follow this blog and don't already have access, you can contact me at macdonaldfamily@iprimus.com.au<br />
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Thanks again and my best wishes to everyone xoKathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-3124228141862077882011-01-04T17:31:00.000+10:002011-01-04T17:31:53.085+10:00Ryder Edward...the birth storyIntroducing...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b>RYDER EDWARD</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQACkdnzdgH2rkTjcgXOolpg2AcxQrrWNJlMHACSO3IHx58GbCbYGuqI0cQygUgE9SZsHUzIIMLiM_isQhS26zOLR5XObUIwuVBTFjH9bDMNIrRHvYM_0wn8_SxsHfleqVfLSKctUYbunv/s1600/IMG_7611.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQACkdnzdgH2rkTjcgXOolpg2AcxQrrWNJlMHACSO3IHx58GbCbYGuqI0cQygUgE9SZsHUzIIMLiM_isQhS26zOLR5XObUIwuVBTFjH9bDMNIrRHvYM_0wn8_SxsHfleqVfLSKctUYbunv/s320/IMG_7611.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><br />
born at 7:01am on Friday 31st December 2010 weighing in at a whopping 9lb 9oz (4.33kg). Here is his birth story...<br />
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It all started on Thursday afternoon at around 1:30pm. I had been getting very strong braxton hicks contractions for weeks, but I started to notice a change in them. It was like they were spreading down to my lower abdomen. They were still very irregular, but different than what they had ever been. They also started spreading a bit into my lower back which they had never done before. They were still only just 'uncomfortable', but different enough to make me start to wonder if it was maybe the start of something happening.<br />
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Things continued this way all afternoon. Sometimes there would be only 5 minutes between them, sometimes 10 minutes and sometimes breaks of around 45 minutes. At this stage, they were still only noticeable, but not overly painful. I decided to send my doula a message before going to bed to let her know that things may be starting. In bed, I struggled to get any sleep. The contractions were getting more painful - still easily manageable, but enough that I couldn't really sleep through them, particulary when they were starting to become closer together with not enough time to fall asleep in between.<br />
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At 1:30am they started to get painful enough that I couldn't just lay down through them. I woke up the hubby to let him know that I thought we should start to think about getting ready. The contractions were now consistently 5 minutes apart and enough that I had to stop and breathe through them. We got ready, called our doula to let her know we would be starting to head into the hospital and left home around 2:30am.<br />
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The trip to the hospital took around 20 minutes and I had 5 contractions within that time. It was so strange though after my last labour - in between contractions I felt perfectly fine. I would then start to wonder if we were being too quick heading in to the hospital. Then another contraction would come and I knew we were doing the right thing!<br />
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We arrived at the same time as our doula and headed for the maternity ward. I had called ahead to let them know we were on our way so when we got there they showed us through to a ward where they had to do a mandatory check on the baby. I was strapped up and both the baby and my contractions were monitored for the 15 minute period that the hospital policy states they must do. It brought back memories of my last labour, being stuck on my back on the bed. It was now that I was glad that we didn't wait longer to go to the hospital, so the contractions were still manageable on the bed. We got the all clear and headed down to the birthing suites. I was the only one in the hospital so got my choice of rooms - with the help of our doula, we chose the room that had the best bath set up for the water birth I wanted.<br />
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By now the contractions were now around 2-3 minutes or so apart and I was starting to feel them a lot more in my back. While our doula added her touches to the room and got set up, I managed the contractions by standing and leaning into pillows on the bed and breathing through them. I concentrated on not fighting the contractions, accepting them, imagining my cervix opening and working with them. Then the back pain worsened. I continued to have quite bad back pain in between the contractions now too. Pacing around the room and returning to the side of the bed for contractions helped me cope for a while, then it was suggested that I get in the shower.<br />
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Oh my gosh, the relief!! I couldn't believe how wonderful that shower was. Our doula had one nozzle aimed on my back and hubby had one aimed at my lower abdomen. The water was incredibly hot, but it pretty much eliminated my back pain and helped a lot with the contractions. I stayed in there for a while, holding onto two metal bars to support myself through the contractions. This was working well until the contractions got so painful that I couldn't stand up through them any more. I tried sitting on a fit ball through them, but because most of the pain was in my back, I found that I couldn't cope with sitting upright either. It was now that the midwife suggested hopping into the bath.<br />
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The bath was no where near as good at easing the back pain, but it felt good to be in the water. By now the contractions were very close together and very painful. Pretty much all the pain was in my back and I found the only way I could cope was to roll onto my knees with my hands on the edge of the bath, my head resting on towels and breathe through them. By now though, they were so painful that I found I needed to be more vocal with the out breath. Lets just say that I'm glad that I was the only one in the birthing area - I would hate to think that I may have scared a first time Mum who was not as advanced into labour as me!<br />
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The contractions were now only a minute or less apart and painful in a way that just cannot be described. I started losing it, I felt like I couldn't cope and wasn't coping. A tiny sane voice in my head told me that it was just the transition stage, but I really felt like I couldn't keep going. More and more contractions came. I kept waiting to feel the baby coming down, but all I could feel was the contractions - and all the pain was in my back. The contractions just kept coming and I still couldn't feel the baby. This went on for around 30 minutes. I felt like it was never going to end, that I physically couldn't keep going. I was passing out in between contractions, having to be physically held up so I didn't slip underwater. I was exhausted and very scared of the level of pain I was feeling. Everyone kept telling me that it was nearly over, but the more contractions that came, the less I believed them and the more scared I got.<br />
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The midwife suggested I try and empty my bladder - I had been given lots of water throughout the labour and they thought that maybe a full bladder was making things more difficult. I sat on the toilet, but was unable to do much else. Another contraction came and was incredibly difficult to deal with while on the toilet. Then I felt a pop and a gush of liquid...finally my waters had broken. The midwife apparently noted the time down as 6:52am. Within seconds, I felt the baby coming down. What a relief, finally the end was in sight. The confidence that feeling restored in me was massive. <br />
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Straight away I wanted to get back into the bath. I stood up from the toilet and felt like the baby's head was pushing out of me, it was incredibly uncomfortable. I made a dive for the bath that apparently got a bit of a chuckle out of the midwives - the one who delivered him even made mention to me the next day that she'd never seen anyone jump in so quickly! I got back onto my hands and knees which just felt like the most comfortable position to be in, and started to push with the contractions as I felt our baby coming out. I was on a serious mission...I was done. A couple of pushes and I could feel his head emerging. I still felt 'the burn' but it was no where near as bad as being out of the water. His head popped out and I felt that wonderful sense of relief that the worst was over. It was so strange waiting for the next contraction - with it being so slippery under the water, I could feel the baby's head moving around outside me. Apparently his eyes were open and he was looking around! It was around this point that hubby decided he would let the midwife pull baby up instead - must have looked quite bizarre!<br />
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Another contraction and another push and our little one entered the world - less than 10 minutes after my waters had broken. I turned around to lay down in the bath as they passed our little boy to me. He lay on my chest in the bath, just looking up at me and gently gazing around the room. It was incredible, such a peaceful arrival into the world. The lights were even dimmed low enough that the midwife had used a torch to check on the baby as he was being delivered. We lay in the bath together, my littlest boy finally in my arms. It was love at first sight. <br />
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We all noticed straight away how big he was, but it was at least an hour and a half later before we would find out just how big. I thought our last baby was pretty big at 8lb 12oz, so I was quite surprised to find out that this little one was 9lb 9oz or 4.33kg.<br />
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We had his first name in mind not long after we found out the sex. Once we saw him, we thought it suited him beautifully. We chose Edward as his middle name after my Grandfather.<br />
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He is just so perfect and we are already so much in love. Our time in the hospital was just so much calmer than with my first baby - I really do think that his peaceful, drug free entry into the world played a big part in that. I look back and still can't believe that I managed to birth him this way and am so proud of the accomplishment. Can't say I'm in a hurry to do it again though! ;)Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-55531806649478932262010-12-29T11:35:00.000+10:002010-12-29T11:35:14.749+10:0040 Week UpdateSo the OB appointment went well this morning. Apparently I'm already 2cm dilated which is obviously a good start. So we decided to go ahead with the Stretch & Sweep. My gosh it was painful! But he did warn me that he wouldn't be gentle and would do what needed to be done to give it the best chance of working.<br />
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So he thinks that it will give me a 50/50 chance of going into labour over the next 48 hours. Again, all opinions though and the baby will come when it's ready. But it's good to know that we are doing all we can naturally to avoid an induction in a couple of weeks time. Even though I know it's not a likely thing, I can't help but be paranoid about the drip after my experience last time.<br />
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Other than that, everything else was looking good. If I haven't already had the baby, I have an appointment booked with the midwife (as my OB is away next week) for next Tuesday when I'd be 41 weeks. She will then arrange an induction date with another one of the hospital OB's. So the next time I see my OB, it will either be in the hospital after I have had the baby, or at the 6 week follow up appointment!<br />
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For now, I just keep waiting... ;)Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-77444364062877076602010-12-29T07:52:00.000+10:002010-12-29T07:52:07.740+10:00Still hereStill here and off to the OB this morning for my 40 week appointment. He was planning to have a look today to see if there is anything happening, and possibly do a stretch and sweep. But he will only do it if he thinks it will actually have a chance at making a difference which I'm happy with.<br />
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No other signs of labour yet though. Just waiting, waiting, waiting...Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-31373034300585297422010-12-24T13:38:00.000+10:002010-12-24T13:38:39.847+10:00Another (late) updateSo, my 39 week appointment went well, pretty much the same as all the others. My blood pressure was the highest it has been at 110/70, but still on the low side and no cause for concern. Apparently baby is now 4/5 engaged so position wise is still looking good. The OB has written on my card 'Well' and 'Ready' so again I'm thinking this may be quite a big bub ;)<br />
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I had my final appointment with my doula a few days ago so everything is all set for whenever the baby decides it is time to meet us. She brought over a shirt for the hubby with 'Kath Can Do Anything' written on it which I thought was very clever. All he needs now are some pom poms! ;)<br />
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Other than that there's not really any other news to report at this stage. Life has been so busy here, it's hard to believe that my due date is only 4 days away!Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-25564637788566612222010-12-19T17:44:00.000+10:002010-12-19T17:44:15.494+10:00Not much to updateSo, I meant to post an update after my 38 week appointment last week, but things have gotten in the way again. But now that I've gotten around to typing it, there's really not all that much to say! The appointment went well, my blood pressure is still about the same, baby's heart rate is good and baby is in a good position for natural labour at this stage.<br />
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The midwife did say after feeling my belly that she thinks the baby is very 'ready to be born' but obviously I have taken this with a grain of salt. I'm actually figuring that it is more likely that it means this will be quite a big baby, especially considering my first was 8lb 12oz!<br />
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It's been such a busy week this week that it's hard to believe my 39 week appointment is tomorrow. I've had a more than usual workload at home for our business, as well as a husband who has hardly been here for the entire week. It's all been quite a struggle with a toddler full time as well, so I'm very glad we managed to get through the week in one piece.<br />
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I'm very ready for this baby to come at any time now, but not in a desperate 'get it out of me' stage ;) I'm actually feeling pretty good about the labour too which is surprising. The idea of induction really freaks me out still though so I'm really hoping that I manage to labour naturally this time.<br />
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The sciatica isn't giving me much trouble at all these days, the SPD is mainly bad at night. It has gotten worse too in that I can now feel and hear the loud clicking of my pelvic bones rubbing on each other when I roll over at night. Not a nice feeling at all. Other than that, it's pretty much just the normal pregnancy aches and pains. But I can tell you, I'm looking forward to being able to lay down and stretch out in bed comfortably...even if it means I have to get up again in a couple of hours ;)Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-77466321946824682302010-12-07T08:34:00.002+10:002010-12-07T08:53:03.844+10:0037 week update37 weeks...officially 'term'! I'm actually coping quite well at the moment surprisingly. I'm sure I was more 'over it' at this stage last time. Maybe it's because I know that this will most likely be my last pregnancy. Or maybe it's because I'm just a lot busier and more active this time. I am trying to rest when I can, but obviously a toddler is keeping me a lot more physically active!<br />
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I had my midwife appointment yesterday and it seems all is still well. My blood pressure is still low at 90/50 - she was a little surprised at how low it was, but she assured us that it isn't a problem pregnancy wise, it just makes me feel crappy ;) After finding out I have been drinking an average of 3L of water a day (which I didn't realise was a concern), she suggested that I may be flushing everything out too much and thinks I should try a gatorade or two a day for the electrolytes that I'm possibly missing. Apparently this may help to rise the blood pressure a bit. I tried one yesterday and did actually feel better after it, but whether that was due to the electrolytes or the sugar...? ;) If it helps, I'm happy to do it though.<br />
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Other than that, the baby is still sitting head down in a good position - she thinks 3-4/5 engaged. Heat rate was also good at 142bpm. My iron level has also risen so that it's close enough to normal for them to be happy with and it should continue to rise a little as I keep taking the tablets.<br />
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Other than that everything seems pretty normal. I've been getting pretty bad heartburn, mostly at nights the last few days, which until now, hasn't been too much of a problem. The amount of water I'm drinking through the night can't be helping though (approx 750ml) so maybe the gatorade during the day will help. I've noticed my fingers are now swollen this morning - I can still get my rings on and off, but there is quite a noticeable difference. I'm getting very minor swelling in my feet and ankles on occasions, but nothing too major. I'm obviously very tired - not helped by the 2-3 bathroom visits, the pubic pain that I'm still getting at night and an early rising toddler. Most days I am trying to get at least a 30 minute nap in around lunchtime which helps. The pain from the SPD and sciatica during the day is still usually quite manageable, again as long as I watch what I do, how I do it and wear the support belt on the harder days. I'm also getting a lot of braxton hicks contractions, which are now very uncomfortable...enough that I often need to change positions and breathe through them.<br />
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Now we just wait for this little one to be ready to meet us!Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-91623298223215240722010-11-30T08:57:00.002+10:002010-11-30T09:10:35.904+10:0036 weeks36 weeks today! Here I am this morning...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiYw4JgyeQbkQi38rcYsxTO7lSZiRpSOHpwHavSzBF4wrtGwapdYqgDBPFMMqaxWgM67L_laxEjs4MduNfwdNl0bu9r4U0haa_XzGSCqfRnj9p9ba5quTrlO04E1rbBSBMN2uhs_Tv_bca/s1600/36weeksbC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiYw4JgyeQbkQi38rcYsxTO7lSZiRpSOHpwHavSzBF4wrtGwapdYqgDBPFMMqaxWgM67L_laxEjs4MduNfwdNl0bu9r4U0haa_XzGSCqfRnj9p9ba5quTrlO04E1rbBSBMN2uhs_Tv_bca/s400/36weeksbC.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
And to compare with my last pregnancy...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp39Cd_WVrYaFB4GKyCRiQBLeqxIn2ljTEXc3oaEqX6-WfukXL3WrTqwlbuXfHwLD7LvL4aZeMHJqZXSPieraXibEgImOmoO7Tqnd2W5RzajCPCnDSz5ATy3q2MtdODg7JRZEn1BibdkrR/s1600/36+week+comparison.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp39Cd_WVrYaFB4GKyCRiQBLeqxIn2ljTEXc3oaEqX6-WfukXL3WrTqwlbuXfHwLD7LvL4aZeMHJqZXSPieraXibEgImOmoO7Tqnd2W5RzajCPCnDSz5ATy3q2MtdODg7JRZEn1BibdkrR/s320/36+week+comparison.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Seems to me like I'm pretty similar - maybe a bit bigger? Looks lower this time to me though. Check out the tan though!! ;)<br />
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I had my 36 week appointment with the OB yesterday - all still going really well. Bub is still head down and he is happy with how we are both doing. OB thinks it's another decent sized baby (Jake was 8lb12oz), but I was also told in my last pregnancy that they expected the baby to be about 1 pound less than what he ended up being so I'm not thinking much of it! Only thing is I have to get another blood test done today so they can re-check my iron levels to make sure the the tablets have brought them up to a more acceptable level.<br />
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I'm on weekly appointments now - I see the midwife next week, then the OB every week after that until baby decided to make it's arrival.<br />
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I'm starting to have a few more issues sleeping lately, but the pelvic & sciatic pain during the day seems to have really eased up...most days anyway. As long as I don't do too much physically. It's still causing quite a bit of pain at night with rolling over in particular, but while it's manageable during the day I'm not complaining too much.<br />
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Other than that, I am coping quite well. I'm not at the completely over it stage, but I am very much looking forward to the end, being able to meet this special little one and being able to be more physically active with my family again.Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-84597886876225412612010-11-24T07:04:00.000+10:002010-11-24T07:04:35.007+10:00A differenceA lot of this pregnancy has been so very similar to my last pregnancy that I was quite surprised to have discovered a big difference between them today. And it's in my fingers. Last time my fingers swelled up so badly that I had to remove my rings. My engagement ring at around 30 weeks:<br />
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<a href="http://butterflydreamsspace.blogspot.com/2008/03/free-woman.html">See Post Here</a><br />
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And a failed attempt at removing my wedding ring at 33 weeks:<br />
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<a href="http://butterflydreamsspace.blogspot.com/2008/03/34-weeks.html">here</a><br />
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This time however, there seems to be no difference at all in the size of my fingers. All rings still go on and off just as easily as they ever have. It didn't even occur to me until a pregnant friend mentioned the trouble she was having. I have noticed a very slight amount of swelling on my feet from time to time towards the end of a day, but otherwise it seems to be mostly just a big basketball belly ;)Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-6437174952545786582010-11-23T08:07:00.000+10:002010-11-23T08:07:36.788+10:00Update35 weeks today...officially only 5 weeks to go until my due date :) Of course we all know that doesn't really mean much, except that the baby should be here some time in the next 2-7 weeks ;)<br />
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Feeling ok at the moment considering. Getting very tired again lately...of course my 5:30am start to every day doesn't help! I've been trying to nap when I can and rest from time to time, but there's only so much rest you can get with a 2 year old.<br />
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The pain is still usually at a manageable level - I do have bad days from time to time, but mostly it's been just normal pain, not debilitating pain. That is, as long as I am wearing a pelvic belt and being very very careful with everything I do. The main thing I am missing is going to the beach - living on the coast we usually spend quite a bit of time at the beach, but walking in the soft sand is just too hard on my S.P.D. now and causes way too much pain for a day or so afterwards. So most likely, no more beach trips for me until after the baby is here.<br />
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I'm a little concerned that I may be getting a cold :( Have had a sore throat for a couple of days and I'm now starting to have sinus issues - feels very typical cold. I guess it's at least better to get it now than in 3 weeks time.<br />
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Other than that, everything seems to be going along really well. We are reasonably organised now too - still a bit of a 'to do' list before the baby arrives, but we're starting to get through it. I'm trying to really lap up all the beautiful baby movements while I can as very likely this will be my last pregnancy. And also spending these last few weeks or so relishing lots of toddler cuddles and enjoying our one on one time before our family grows.Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-86348106637045317342010-11-10T17:03:00.000+10:002010-11-10T17:03:58.294+10:00ImprovementI'm a bit concerned about jinxing myself by writing this, but my pain levels have improved dramatically over the past couple of days. I'm still in pain, mostly from the S.P.D. but also some sciatic pain, but no where near as bad as what it has been. I have been doing a lot less around the house which is still a massive struggle for me, but it really seems to have made a difference to the pain level. I'm even thinking that maybe the baby has changed positions or something because of the pain comparison in relation to the amount of reduced physical activity. Even over the last day or so when I have done a bit more around the house (dishes, washing, tiny bit of sweeping etc), the pain level is still very manageable. I'm still getting quite a bit of S.P.D. pain at night, but I have managed to find a position that doesn't aggravate it when I first go to bed which has helped a lot.<br />
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Now I'm just really hoping that it stays at this level for the rest of the pregnancy!Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-29008864486200863672010-11-05T06:19:00.000+10:002010-11-05T06:19:50.601+10:00Physio AppointmentThe appointment at the physio yesterday was pretty much what I expected. I've been told I need to severely reduce the amount of activity I am doing, and add in significant rest periods throughout the day. Um, yes, well that will be easy as a stay at home Mum to a toddler! <br />
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But she has basically explained that it is a necessity to prevent the problem from worsening and causing other problems, particularly because they are so limited in what they can do for the problem while I am pregnant. And that if I can't rest myself at home, then they will make me with a week's stay in hospital on enforced bed rest.<br />
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My lower back is also suffering a lot more too with the extra work it has to do because of the weakness in other areas, and as the pain has caused me to develop a bit of a limp, that pressure has been added to my lower back too. She managed to loosen the muscles there during the appointment and my back is feeling a lot better. Not a whole lot she can do for the pubic/groin/leg pain though as expected. She has me taking panadol in the afternoon and again before bed to help with the problem at night. I also managed to get enough relief from the burning pain yesterday for a 45 min nap during the day by laying on my back, raised by a heap of pillows. So I'm now trying that technique to help me get to sleep at night for the first couple of hours in particular.<br />
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So, the physio wants to see me in a week's time to check on how things are going. If it hasn't improved at least somewhat or has gotten worse, she will be speaking to my OB about the next step.<br />
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Although after even 1 day of doing basically nothing yesterday, I can notice the difference this morning. Still pain, but a definite improvement on yesterday morning. I'm not the type of person who can just sit back and do nothing though, so it was a real struggle to do it for even one day. But I don't have a choice, I need to take care of my body so that I'm able to properly care for both my toddler and baby in 5-9 weeks time (yes I am counting!).Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-78170601577124056692010-11-04T09:16:00.001+10:002010-11-04T09:19:46.636+10:00LimitsBetween the SPD and the sciatica, I have been trying to limit my physical activity as much as possible when I'm experiencing pain. I'm trying to get light exercise, while not overdoing it and still trying to get some rest. I'm trying to sit the right way, walk the right way, turn the right way, get in and out of the car/bed etc the right way, roll over the right way, sleep the right way etc etc. I'm wearing the support strap during the day and only taking it off for breaks, particularly where I am sitting or laying down. <br />
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</div><div>But the pain level seems to have doubled over the last few days. I can't do anything without feeling pain - even sitting or laying still most often causes a strong burning pain in my groin. Feels like I am being stabbed with a hot knife. Walking is painful enough that I cant help but limp a lot of the time - whenever I put any pressure on my right leg, I get the pain from both the SPD as well as the shooting pain in my RH lower back from the sciatica. After laying down in bed for a couple of minutes, I start to get a burning pain in my groin so bad that it brings me to tears. It lasts for about an hour and I can't seem to find any position that makes it go away.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I'm off to the physio again today, but not expecting her to be able to do much. I've come to the realisation this morning that I just have to accept that my mobility is decreased severely and will be that way until the birth. I find it so difficult to sit back and do nothing, particularly with a toddler who wants me to run around playing and dancing with him like normal and still has times where he wants to be picked up or carried. He doesn't, and shouldn't have to, understand why I can't. But I just can't handle this pain anymore, I don't have a choice but to limit my activity to a much more severe degree. I don't want to spend the rest of this pregnancy in tears.</div>Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-81669331592908462512010-11-02T08:08:00.001+10:002010-11-02T08:10:57.845+10:0032 WeeksHere I am this morning at 32 weeks...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheIIadSiFPQmJQrz_jGUBHG3rjeEIFBYNZH2D1LmZFPnhbc_vUXD7mlgxNRzjURt6a8uLI2jGxnfgfZWVSTEj5Kyoi8F_5xM38CttmZzIosITtDgDEMJukDx86blby7DnK_goRFsdACF7M/s1600/32weeksC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheIIadSiFPQmJQrz_jGUBHG3rjeEIFBYNZH2D1LmZFPnhbc_vUXD7mlgxNRzjURt6a8uLI2jGxnfgfZWVSTEj5Kyoi8F_5xM38CttmZzIosITtDgDEMJukDx86blby7DnK_goRFsdACF7M/s320/32weeksC.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><br />
And compared with my last pregnancy...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjspWt7afBf0jvGHrWLy-tlN3y6q3jBdAMnLp_QkHRvBaVJoeHZW6d5By-gaFEcCjIbArWXebtSKaYIs87fB7ilAZqYiXOCOnhCwFWCfYs2H9hPaDLVjikVKa2sfZ37DSUpklrnh9QTk5C-/s1600/32+weeks+comparison.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjspWt7afBf0jvGHrWLy-tlN3y6q3jBdAMnLp_QkHRvBaVJoeHZW6d5By-gaFEcCjIbArWXebtSKaYIs87fB7ilAZqYiXOCOnhCwFWCfYs2H9hPaDLVjikVKa2sfZ37DSUpklrnh9QTk5C-/s400/32+weeks+comparison.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>So maybe a bit bigger, but looks pretty similar to me! I've now put on around 12kg compared to the 11kg I put on in total last time, but I'm still 3kg lighter than my finishing weight last pregnancy.<br />
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I had my 32 week OB appointment yesterday which was pretty uneventful as usual...just what to hope for. My blood pressure was pretty good at 105/60, baby's heart rate was 140. OB just wanted to make sure that I was taking iron supplements, but other than that had no concerns.<br />
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The pain is still hanging around - both from the S.P.D. and sciatica. I'm still seeing the physio every 2 weeks which helps a little, but only for a few days. The midwife has recommended a remedial massage therapist now as well, but I must admit that I'm more than a little skeptical. The last few days have been particularly painful, but I've also been at home by myself with a toddler over the whole weekend. The pain seems to be very closely related to the level and type of activity I do throughout the day. I'm trying to take it easy as much as possible, but there's only so much I can avoid as a stay at home Mum. I'm also trying to wear the support strap as much as possible - not sure how much difference it makes though. I try to wear it in the mornings when I am getting the most work done, but it's pretty uncomfortable and the baby doesn't particularly like it, especially if I sit or lay down. I really think it is just something that you can get minor relief from while pregnant, but that won't go away until after the baby is out. Even though he wont directly say it, I get the feeling that my OB agrees.Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-81197950943299201852010-11-01T12:29:00.000+10:002010-11-01T12:29:13.009+10:00Hospital TourIronically, after waiting an extra month to do the hospital tour because of the hubby's last minute work commitments, he ended up having to work again...the joys of business ownership!! But I didn't want to chance waiting another month so I headed off to the hospital tour on Saturday morning myself, toddler in tow.<br />
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It was of such a great benefit to me - it really made a difference being able to see the place where our baby would be born. The tour started with all the general information you would expect about labour and the actual hospital stay in particular from one of the midwives on staff. This was the second hospital midwife I have met and she was just as lovely as the first one. We looked through the rooms, as well as the whole ward in general, nursery & birth suites.<br />
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This hospital is so different from my last one. It's not as 'pretty' to look at, the rooms are all smaller and older, but there were other differences that made it seem so much more 'homely'. For example, at my old hospital, the bed was THE major furniture item in the birth suite and the constant fluro lighting made it seem more like a hospital. These birth suites still contain a bed, but they are not the major feature of the room, and even the midwife commented that they rarely get used, only really for epidurals. There's also beanbags, mattresses, fitballs, couches etc. The lights are dimmed too which makes it seem a lot less like a hospital. They also have ensuites with a large corner bath that I'm hoping I will be able to utilise for a water birth.<br />
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The rooms were simple, but clean and tidy. All rooms are private rooms, mostly singles with just a single bed, big comfy recliner, ensuite, tv, phone etc, and all except 2 of the rooms also have their own balcony. <br />
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I also noticed that this hospital seems to allow mums more privacy than my last one. Last time, it was very rare to have an hour go by without someone coming into my room. Here, they deliver breakfast, lunch and dinner to your room, but morning & afternoon tea is delivered to the kitchen so you can wander down and help yourself if you want them. There's also a fridge filled with juices, softdrinks etc, as well as tea and coffee that can be accessed at any time. They even have a sign for the front door of your room that you can use if you want to have a sleep - like a do not disturb sign effectively. You have the ability to get your own fresh linen or extra supplies for the baby if you wish too. Particularly as this will be my second baby, I love the sound of being able to have that extra privacy if I want it.<br />
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The tour has left me so excited...I want the baby here now!! It also made me feel even more comfortable about the labour. I wouldn't go as far as to say that I'm not scared at all, but it has definitely made me feel a lot more relaxed about it and in a way, excited to see how it will all happen and hopefully being able to have that 'healing birth' that people talk about.Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-51139532952752403482010-10-20T06:40:00.000+10:002010-10-20T06:40:41.308+10:00Hospital Midwife AppointmentSo, the hospital midwife appointment yesterday went really well. Everyone there was so lovely, very friendly and focussed on making me feel comfortable there.<br />
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Before going in to my appointment, I was given a bounty bag (forgot about those little goodie bags!), as well as a brief questionnaire designed to assess my risk of post natal depression. I was at a pretty high risk of this last time (but thankfully never got it), but the fact that I have a lot more support around me this time in the form of friends with children, means that my risk is significantly lowered. Plus the fact that more time has passed since certain events that also added to the risk factor last time.<br />
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My appointment was with a student midwife as well as one of the staff midwives. They basically went through my hospital admission form, as well as a question sheet to do with plans/expectations for the birth. They explained a lot about how they work at the hospital, and spent some time talking to me about my previous birth. I also had to sign for the first medical decisions for the baby - our baby will be getting the vitamin K injection after birth, but not the Hep B vaccination as we will be starting it at 2 months instead (All my personal research and advice from doctors/midwives confirms that this is the right decision for us). I also agreed to have the injection to help expel the placenta after birth.<br />
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The also checked on the baby - bub's back was laying along my left side which is apparently good at this stage. Baby's heart rate was good at 142bpm, my blood pressure was still around the same as it has been at 90/65. My gestational diabetes screen has come back negative, but as expected, my iron was a little low. It's not too bad (they like to see it at 120, mine came back at 103), but they have recommended iron tablets for me. Partly to help me feel better (less tired, more energy), but also to get my iron levels up before labour because it is obviously harder for your body to cope with blood loss when your iron levels are down to start with.<br />
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I actually felt much better after walking out of this appointment. They were so very reassuring about my upcoming labour and were also very supportive of the fact that I will be having a doula with me. They work pretty much the opposite of my last hospital - the midwife was quite angry about the way I was treated last time, and has assured me that the things that happened then, would never happen at their hospital. The fact that all of the variables from last time have changed completely, gives me much more confidence that this will be a very different labour for me.Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-60184237477404170902010-10-19T07:22:00.000+10:002010-10-19T07:22:22.798+10:0030 weeks30 weeks today...on the 10 week countdown!!<br />
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Finally managed to get one out of my pajamas!<br />
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Pain wise I'm still struggling. Although thankfully the pain in my hands eased up a lot after a couple of days and is now barely noticeable - things I changed were being more careful about drinking lots of water and making sure to stretch my hands properly throughout the day. I've also noticed the swelling in my feet went away too which probably has something to do with it.<br />
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However, over the last few days, I have developed some sort of pain in my lower back. It's a stabbing pain right at the bottom of my lower back only on my RH side. It's the kind of pain that almost brings you to your knees when it happens. Because of the location, I'm concerned that it might be sciatica, but still hoping it's just a knot that can be fixed. I have another appointment this week with the physio so will hopefully find out more then. I'm just so envious of those people who manage to get through pregnancy with just discomfort rather than pain.<br />
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Other than that though, everything seems to be going well. I haven't heard anything back about my glucose challenge test so hopefully that means that all is good. Baby is moving lots and lots which is awesome...well most of the time, I am getting the occasional painful jab!<br />
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This afternoon I'm off to meet the hospital midwives. I'm looking forward to talking to them and finding out a bit more about labouring in their hospital. Will update after the appointment...Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-4211321387704048222010-10-09T07:31:00.000+10:002010-10-09T07:31:43.399+10:00PainAs if I needed more pain. This is the second day I've been having pain in my hands, specifically at the base of my thumbs. It hurts to close my hands into a fist and particularly when putting any pressure on my hands like picking up an object. There's also a weakness there that makes me concerned that I'm going to drop the object I'm holding. <br />
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At first I thought maybe I just slept on it wrong, but it got worse at the end of the day yesterday, and is still bad this morning. I've also noticed a small amount of swelling in my feet over the last few days. Swelling from fluid is what causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome during pregnancy. And like S.P.D., the only cure is delivery. Its basically the same sorts of symptoms as a repetitive strain injury. So if you imagine opening and closing your hands all day long, how it would feel the next morning and you get the idea.<br />
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Sitting on the laptop working on our business during the day wouldn't help, but I was also in an office based job during my last pregnancy and didn't have any sign of it. Or the swelling though - I don't remember having any swelling until the day after the birth.<br />
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I ended up seeing a physio about the S.P.D. a few days ago - recommended by my OB. She used to be the physio at the hospital and has a special interest in women's issues. I did learn a few tips for pain management, but essentially it was what I already knew - pretty much put up with it until the baby is born and hope it goes away straight away. She also checked my lower back and found it to be quite tight, apparently from having to help support the belly more due to the looseness of the pelvic muscle. The massage to loosen it was awesome, felt so much lighter afterwards. I'm already starting to get some pain back though. I have another appointment in 2 weeks so she can keep an eye on it, then probably just one or two more appointments before the birth.<br />
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So between the pubic pain, lower back pain and now hand pain (which I am still secretly hoping will magically just disappear!), I am a bit over being in pain. I'm still very grateful that all is well with the baby and everything has been going smoothly medically, but my body just doesn't seem to like pregnancy...Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-88292174327486404542010-10-07T07:21:00.000+10:002010-10-07T07:21:21.909+10:00Doula AppointmentLast night I had my first official doula appointment. Our time was basically spent going through a birth plan checklist so that we could both get an idea of my expectations and hopes for the labour & birth. It was quite a good appointment - she managed to point out a few things that I hadn't thought of and it has given me a better idea of my level of preparation for the birth. Let's just say I have a few more things to work out in my mind.<br />
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She also lent me a book to read...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqYfpz7jUF1jQk86mH2TfZ_3svc3oaEcShJozap8Vomks9uq9f-w_OWFTiG4x6UlDRdY8oRi0-eC0xmRYzq-3fROYQuKgn_wrL4f7RFekY6kC75hsWJcqVymNnX8Ysa6SxAWpiFQR_lfyA/s1600/Labour-of-Love-concept.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqYfpz7jUF1jQk86mH2TfZ_3svc3oaEcShJozap8Vomks9uq9f-w_OWFTiG4x6UlDRdY8oRi0-eC0xmRYzq-3fROYQuKgn_wrL4f7RFekY6kC75hsWJcqVymNnX8Ysa6SxAWpiFQR_lfyA/s400/Labour-of-Love-concept.jpg" width="257" /></a></div><br />
...along with a matching hypnosis CD. Looks like a great book and I'm really keen to get stuck into it - more info on it <a href="http://www.alabouroflove.com.au/alabouroflove_book.htm">here</a>.<br />
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She also lent us this book...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lDn6aucbe4r1J0x4YhWNchtk1d-J7AoEug0his4UGlVAy14cIErcSVdJgMkOFfDMNx7NjfFGibYh61MgKab29mpd-JDR-24M7vKE7_gDr3k2W5Be12_v2wuH59AXMsj06WJYgAzl-Dt_/s1600/12388635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lDn6aucbe4r1J0x4YhWNchtk1d-J7AoEug0his4UGlVAy14cIErcSVdJgMkOFfDMNx7NjfFGibYh61MgKab29mpd-JDR-24M7vKE7_gDr3k2W5Be12_v2wuH59AXMsj06WJYgAzl-Dt_/s320/12388635.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
...to read to Jake to help explain about the baby coming. Apparently there is a very cute song on the CD as well :)<br />
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Still very happy with our decision to use the doula and looking forward to our next appointment!Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-85269506175365691362010-10-05T07:00:00.001+10:002010-10-05T07:01:34.698+10:0028 weeksHere's my belly pic from this morning at 28 weeks...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKlgN7a67oIwJiFtV5Fb3ZgwpjHXaW5NiYQ7Y55DDjUDDUjeC5aXfd74ZHEeYgKOSL-K9jIBebi7TLy9MORMRxcVYiiKTM0qb3PEALJK0UMmHoEE4xS2iKN6aqvMbFTdNLUtZffpjN11aq/s1600/28weeksC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKlgN7a67oIwJiFtV5Fb3ZgwpjHXaW5NiYQ7Y55DDjUDDUjeC5aXfd74ZHEeYgKOSL-K9jIBebi7TLy9MORMRxcVYiiKTM0qb3PEALJK0UMmHoEE4xS2iKN6aqvMbFTdNLUtZffpjN11aq/s400/28weeksC.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
I think I feel a lot bigger than I actually am...or maybe I am just forgetting how big I got last time! Although these pics are being taken first thing in the morning - there seems to be quite a big difference with how big it gets by the end of the day...will try and remember to take another pic tonight!<br />
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I had my 28 week appointment yesterday - I ended up seeing both the midwife and the OB as he was running a bit late. Everything is still looking really good though - BP was 98/60, baby's heartrate was 145bpm. The OB has recommended a physio for the SPD - it doesn't help everyone, but he thinks it's worth giving it a go. The one he has recommended used to work at the hospital as the maternity physio which has to be a good thing. He has also given me a support strap to wear that is very uncomfortable ;)<br />
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I still have to get my gestational diabetes screening test done - meant to do it last week and time got away from me. Will be trying to get that done today or tomorrow. I'll also be keen to hear the iron levels - last time I had to take an iron supplement as they were a bit low. I have a glimmer of hope that it is one reason why I am so tired.<br />
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I'm getting loads of movements from the baby which is always reassuring - hubby got to see some really big movements yesterday which was lovely. Jake seems to have some sort of understanding about the baby - he has asked to carry it, change it's stinky nappies, hold it's hand and play with it. (Still hard calling the baby 'it' when I know the sex!)<br />
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Other than that, nothing really else to report for now. Next step is my first official appointment with the doula tomorrow, the hospital midwife appointment in 2 weeks, followed by the hospital tour that I missed out on last month due to business commitments. Will also update with the results of the GD test.Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-58616264018043004902010-09-21T07:49:00.001+10:002010-09-21T07:54:47.835+10:0026 weeksHere is my belly pic for this morning at 26 weeks. After the suggestion from Starpepper, I have dug out the outfit that I used for my comparison belly shots last time...so glad it still fits!!!<br />
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So definitely bigger, but actually not as bad as what I thought looking at that. I've put on a fair bit extra than last time at this stage, so far about 9kg (!) compared to the total of 11kg I put on last time. But then I also started out 4kg heavier the first time so it probably balances out pretty closely.<br />
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The SPD has been getting worse lately as well, it's getting to a point where I think I'm going to need to try to do something about it. At the moment, it's mainly getting into bed at night that I struggle with the most, but also the usual rolling over, getting up and walking after sitting, getting in and out of the car and basically anything that puts any pressure on my pelvis.<br />
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I've also noticed lots and lots of braxton hicks contractions - a lot more than last time and definitely a lot stronger. I don't even think I was aware of them at this stage last time, but this time they are quite strong - enough that I notice them even if I'm distracted and they are quite uncomfortable. A bit scary when I'm still so far away from delivery!<br />
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Otherwise all is going well and I'm really looking forward to the hospital tour this weekend!Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-19935685690151316952010-09-16T06:37:00.003+10:002010-09-16T17:17:12.132+10:00DoulaI now have a doula!! I had been thinking about it for a little while, considering how scared I am of going through labour again after my last one. The reading I am doing is helping, but I still worry about 'losing it' on the day.<br />
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Last week, I saw a request on a forum that I use regularly from a student doula in my area looking for pregnant ladies willing to use her services as part of her qualification process. After a few emails back and forth, I met up with her last night and have booked in! She seems lovely - she's had 3 babies at the same hospital that I am going to, including 2 water births which I am really hoping to have.<br />
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For anyone not familar with a doula - <a href="http://www.bellybelly.com.au/articles/pregnancy/doulas-what-is-a-doula">here</a> is an explaination of what it is, including:<br />
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<h2 style="color: purple; font-size: 18px; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: 0.05em; margin: 0px 0px 0.8em;">What Are The Proven Benefits Of A Doula?</h2><em>50% less caesarean sections</em><br />
<em>Reduction in the use of forceps by 40%</em><br />
<em>60% less requests for epidurals</em><br />
<em>40% reduction in the use of synthetic oxytocin for inductions or augmentations</em><br />
<em>30% reduction in use of pain medication</em><br />
<em>25% reduction in labour length</em><br />
<em>Increased rates of breastfeeding at 6 weeks post-partum (51% vs 29%)</em><br />
<em>Higher self-esteem (74% vs 59%), less anxiety (28% vs 40%) and less depression (10% vs 23%) at 6 weeks post-partum</em> <br />
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I will have 4 appointments with her before the birth to get to know her, discuss my previous labour, fears expectations & hopes for my upcoming labour etc etc. We will also discuss hubby's role and how he will be involved in the whole process. She has resources (books, dvds etc) that I will have access to for more information as I need/want it. She will then be on call for my labour and will either come to my home at the start of labour, or meet us at the hospital, whichever we decide that we would prefer. She will stay throughout the whole labour for support, and for as long as we need after the birth. We then have a follow up appointment after the birth to discuss the labour and anything else to do with the baby.<br />
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I'm really excited about this plan, I think it will really help to have another support person there - particularly someone who has done it all before. There's only so much weight my hubby's reassurance can be when I know that he doesn't know what I'm going through!Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-49263757380725658392010-09-07T09:07:00.001+10:002010-09-07T09:09:37.854+10:00Another baby purchaseI ordered another baby item a couple of days ago. Introducing, the Maya Wrap Ring Sling...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzSZcoPfRM645IfBahgSUxoc4MqLYhmx0-em8zoFmmNXylvEFow4lsyQNftEuHN5B9o_v1VuDWutJCt69mzbC_cXl6jmq67gx7RbyllUY9xGyBWB3gxBOXUz5LkdWc6aDXRGKzRrJCXqfM/s1600/maya+sling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzSZcoPfRM645IfBahgSUxoc4MqLYhmx0-em8zoFmmNXylvEFow4lsyQNftEuHN5B9o_v1VuDWutJCt69mzbC_cXl6jmq67gx7RbyllUY9xGyBWB3gxBOXUz5LkdWc6aDXRGKzRrJCXqfM/s400/maya+sling.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>I'm so excited about this purchase!! I wish I would have done more research and found this before I had Jake. I really think it is going to make life with a baby so much easier. Here is some info from their <a href="http://www.mayawrap.com/index.php">website</a>:<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">This sling gets rave reviews for comfort and ease of use! The shoulder has a light pad. The rails are still unpadded for easy adjusting. Fans say it is the</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b> perfect first sling for new babywearers</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
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<ul style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" type="circle"><li>Wear newborns through toddlers in a variety of positions</li>
<li>Made of beautiful hand-loomed, breathable fabrics</li>
<li>Built in pocket for keys, diaper, cell phone etc.</li>
<li>Unpadded, open tail that allows for perfect adjustability and is convenient as a nursing cover</li>
<li>Fits easily into a diaper bag or purse</li>
<li>Machine washable</li>
<li>Recommended for children up to 35 pounds</li>
<li>Instructional DVD included</li>
</ul><div><a href="http://www.mayawrap.com/u_maya_wrap_101.php">This link</a> shows more information on just what this piece of material can do, it's quite amazing. I've been really keen on the whole 'babywearing' thing since before I was pregnant this time and wish I would have done it more with Jake.</div><div><br />
</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Wearing your baby in a baby sling or baby carrier has several benefits:</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>Less Crying -</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Babies who are carried cry less on average than those that are not. Research has shown that babies who are carried cry (on average) 43% less overall and 54% less during the evening hours.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>Smarter Babies -</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Babies spend more time in a "quiet, alert state" when carried - the ideal state for learning. When carried, your baby sees the world from where you do, instead of the ceiling above his crib or people's knees from a stroller.This extra stimulation benefits brain development.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>Emotional Development -</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Babies are able to develop a sense of security and trust when they are carried. They are more likely to be securely attached to their care-giver/s and often become independent at an earlier age.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>Physical Development -</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">By being close to your body's rhythms, baby "gets in rhythm" much more quickly. Research has shown how this helps newborns (especially premature babies) to adapt to life outside the womb.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>Helps with Post Partum Depression -</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Babies who are not held need more verbal interaction and eye contact, just to be reassured that you're there. Moms who may suffer from Post Partum depression will find that carrying their baby is a great way to connect with her (and provide stimulation too) without the "burden" of having to interact. Of course your baby is "right there" to enjoy whenever you feel like snuggling, kissing or talking. This is by no means a cure or solution for Post Partum Depression, always seek counsel from your physician first.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>Eases the strain -</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Carrying your baby in a sling eases the strain on babies spine and your back!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 5px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 5px; color: #624200; font-family: Tahoma, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br />
</span></div><div>I ended up ordering from the US - as a US product, it was cheaper to order from there and get it shipped over than it is was to buy it here. Just means it will take 2-4 weeks to get here. I've heard such great things about it, I can't wait to start practicing!!</div>Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-60812880086415221932010-09-07T07:50:00.000+10:002010-09-07T07:50:58.745+10:0024 weeksHere I am this morning at 24 weeks...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtT1O2CNvZEmAmW6NW1OReKMEXJSLBQU4yDQAeXnVMccELqX-4iUzluWgQ0hxov-pIjuTqZtM5yQCvJNKU3TP3NC8n4dhxW3sAggirFHhrfMFED8uTCNVHAuiS47wlXtrwdl6OdpOGzLMD/s1600/24weeksC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtT1O2CNvZEmAmW6NW1OReKMEXJSLBQU4yDQAeXnVMccELqX-4iUzluWgQ0hxov-pIjuTqZtM5yQCvJNKU3TP3NC8n4dhxW3sAggirFHhrfMFED8uTCNVHAuiS47wlXtrwdl6OdpOGzLMD/s400/24weeksC.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Starting to feel quite big...particularly as I still have quite a way to go! Not too uncomfortable yet though which is surprising - there are still times throughout the day where I don't even feel pregnant.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Heartburn has started rearing it's ugly head in the last couple of days though. Mainly at night after dinner which is pretty normal. Not finding it much of a problem during the day so far. I've just started to notice my leg/feet muscles cramping more at night, as well as a bit of the 'restless legs' when trying to sleep. And still getting up to pee at least once through the night. But I am managing the nights ok (well as well as I ever do!) with just one extra pillow between my knees for a bit of extra support.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It seems I do have S.P.D. again though - I'm still managing to keep it at bay with just making sure to do the right kinds of movements and not the ones that aggravate it. I spoke to the midwife at the 24 week appointment yesterday and she has also suggested a remedial massage therapist for if it does get worse like it was last time. This time around I would have to try something, that pain was just horrible last time. Medically it is just birth that 'cures' it, but there are obviously a number of natural therapies that can help.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Everything else at the appointment went well, my BP is still about the same at 105/60, baby's heart rate sounded really good at 145bpm. The only other thing we really discussed was all the paperwork that I will need to sign off on before the birth. I am absolutely amazed at the options I am being given by this hospital compared to the last one. Last time, my only choices were whether or not to authorise Vitamin K and Hepatitis B vaccine for the baby. This time I need to choose both of these, but also whether to give an injection or oral doses of the Vitamin K, and whether to start the Hep B at birth or at 2 months. I also need to choose whether or not to use the assistance of a Syntocinon injection to expel the placenta, or whether to birth it naturally. Last time this wasn't even mentioned to me and they just jabbed me with a needle at the time. The midwife has given me some information to read through so I can take my time to form a decision. She did also assure me that while I have all these choices if everything is going to plan, they will take over the decisions if it becomes medically necessary for my or the baby's safety. How wonderful that I get to be so involved in the decisions about my body and my baby!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, next step is the gestational diabetes test in a 2-4 weeks time, followed by an appointment (which I really must book today!) with the hospital midwifes in about 5-6 weeks time. I'm also planning on doing a hospital tour soon too - I think they have one at the end of every month. I'm really looking forward to seeing more of the hospital I have heard so much about!</div>Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3511296274260094940.post-2035746644475656382010-09-01T07:26:00.001+10:002010-09-01T07:31:36.372+10:00FrustratedYou know, I expected quite a bit of ass-vice when I was pregnant with my first child. The whole "you're never going to sleep again", "you wont be able to do that when you're a Mum" and "you'll never get changed out of your pjamas and you'll have to live on take away forever" etc etc. I may be exaggerating a little, but you get the idea. But I never expected to have the same problem the second time around!<br />
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I'm now getting "Ooh, you won't be able to do THAT anymore when the second one comes along" or my favourite..."You'll HAVE to put Jake in day care when the second one is here". I mean, seriously?? I may have no idea what this second baby will be like, but I do have an idea of what parenting involves by now and what my strengths/weaknesses are. And it's not like I had a dream newborn the first time around - he was a screaming, refluxy, non-sleeping baby who hated both cars and prams. So no 'idealised' images here!<br />
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I'm so sick of people telling me how easy I have it with one child and how I'll REALLY know what parenting is when I have more than one. Particularly coming from people who's children sleep in past 6am and get days off during the week while their child/ren are in day care and they are still not working, while I don't get any days off and still manage to contribute a substantial amount to our home business...without putting my child in front of an electronic babysitter all day! And when it hasn't been my choice to have only one child until now, it cuts particularly deep. You know what...if you can't handle your children, then you shouldn't have chosen to have them. And you should feel extremely lucky that you have that choice in the first place!<br />
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Ok, so I may be getting a little off track now, but as you can tell I have been quite frustrated! I shouldn't have to have more than one child to be recognised as a 'credible' mother!Kathhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12767532305297227132noreply@blogger.com0