What happened at the Spa?! So they need vests AND babygrows? Also, just been looking online at clothes - was assuming as we are having winter babies, that they would wear those long-sleeved all in one things - is this right? Or inside would they have short-sleeved things on? Think I will probably end up buying absolutely everything only to get told off by DH and not using most of it

becky - how painful have a soak in the bath, really hope it works for you.

We went swimming.

We went to the normal heated fun pool with slide etc, so find it swarming with kids and the pool shut. An 'incident' if some kind .

After much deliberating about where to go, we decided to be brave and try out a Lido where we have not been to before, as its a bit out of the way and through a rough estate. But its free. So we went, and it was fab, great location, tucked away on the other side of this estate, right by the sea, but sheltered enough - two pools, one fun pool with water sprays, and one lengths pool which had kids and floats in. Fantastic. Free. fecking freezing sea water . In for 20 mins and I did not get my hair wet! Next time, DD is in her wetsuit and I am wearing my rash vest, not a bikini

Trip to the Spa was painful. Frustrating!!!! Going to try a bath while DSs play in their bedroom next to me.

Katster I was just like you with DS1 - most baby books contain a list of things to take: basically nappies, cotton wool, vests, babygrows, errr, can't remember now what else - nope, really can't rememeber! I'll be asking DH as he is good at remebering this stuff.

This time, I like the idea of 6 hour labour - in after 2, out after another 6, home with a nice cuppa, new baby, and my DH and DD. Lovely

My labour was 18 hours or thereabouts. BUT it really did not feel that long. And I am including from the start, which is when I woke at 5:30am with my waters broken, no pain, some braxton hicks, through to first painful contraction at about 1:30pm, into hospital for around 7pm, gave birth at 11:47pm. I had to pop into hospital at around 9am to check baby was ok as I needed monitoring, they confirmed labour had started and said I could go home as it was still early. So I did. Waited at home watching the England world cup match (the one where they got knocked out) with friends for the first half, then friend/doula arrived after travelling back from cornwall, had a bite to eat, into hospital when I needed more than paracetamol as pain relief. It really felt like not very long, with all the different things going on.

A friend of mine woke up, in pain, ran a bath, realised she had no time, in hospital straight away, baby born 1 hour later now that was fast. She was told, if she has a 2nd baby, she needs to call an ambulance immediately that she goes into labour!

Tamlin thanks for all of that. I didn't realise you could leave after providing it was all okay That's cheered my up no end... I think I'll rope my parents in as well to help out so that I'm not left alone at any point - although I think I'd have to sedate my mother very heavily to keep her away!

Lemontop, am so sorry to hear about your Godson, I hope he feels better by tomorrow and they can make it to your big day. Hope the weather holds off as long as possible, and be sure to come and tell us all about it soon

Katster - from what I've been told, you need to take first outfits, nappies, cotton wool and baby lotion (Hospitals have a thing about wipes, apparently), clothes for you, blankets, maternity pads and breast pads. Depends from hospital to hospital, so you might want to check with yours what they supply for you

Tamlin that is a good idea. I am hoping my mum will be lurking too so she can chase down midwives etc. Oh yuck, I hate hospitals! I didn't realise you could just go home if everything was ok. I really hate hospitals and the thought of staying overnight on my own does not inspire me. And that's a good point - I would have no idea how to change a baby's nappy or anything. I know it's v early to ask this, but do you have to take a lot of stuff into hospital with you? I am so clueless it is embarrassing!

Lemontop I doubt you'll see this but just seen the weather forecast and it says rain should hold off 'til late evening tomorrow in most parts of the country so fingers crossed. You will look gorgeous! Will be thinking of you!

Ursigurke thanks, that's good advice. I'll try. Awww it hurts! We're off to the Spa now for ice lollies - I'm hoping a bit of exercise will help.

Lemontop I hope tomorrow goes well. I hope your best friend / godmother's son is ok. Poor thing. At least they can treat it and he'll be fine I'm sure.

12-15 hrs is only the average for fist birth. 4 hours for first birth for me. 2 hours for second. I don't know many people who exceeded 15 hours on their first. Do lots of walking, stay healthy, think postive, yoga, etc and you'll be fine. Your body will be prepared.

It is amazing how different hospitals provide such vastly different levels of care. I didn't like the JR in Oxford as they were sooo busy and I didn't see the same midwife twice after the birth (and in fact my labour went over two midwives' shifts) but was lucky with DS2 having him in Chipping Norton which was just bliss. I have no idea what Shrewsbury will be like.

Trikken, you don't have to stay there if things go ok. I was surprised when my doula said 'Ok, if hospitals make you uncomfortable and tense, we'll aim to get you there at 8-9 cm and then provided things are straightforward, you can come straight home again once you're rested and cleaned up, if you want to.' It seemed really obvious when she said it, but for some reason, I was thinking (like you) that I'd wind up all on my own all night with the midwives ignoring the buzzer because they're overstretched. DH is a lot nicer about fetching pain medication and helping me to the loo!

Average first labour is 12 - 15 hours, so there's not much point dashing off to the hospital in a hurry, especially as labour tends to slow down when you get there. You might as well stay at home until the contractions are coming so hard and fast that you find it impossible to finish sentences. (Have also read that average second labour is 6 hours, which has cheered me up no end.)

They're anticipating huge staff shortages around here thanks to the flu going around as well, and hospital tours have been cancelled. Hey ho... If you're really worried about being left alone during labour, try to get two birth partners in there rather than just one - then there's one person to chase down errant midwives and another person to stay with you. We made that mistake with our first child, and every time poor DH wanted to go to the loo or get something to eat, I was howling 'DON'T LEAVE ME ALOOOONE!'

Hi

Thanks ever so much for all the wedding wishes. I'm incredibly calm believe it or not. Unfortunately my godson is really sick and in hospital yesterday. They thought it was his appendix but they found out it was a kidney infection which is treatable with antibiotics. His mum, my best mate, witness & kind of maid of honour was supposed to be coming round to help me get ready but is obviously staying with her DS. Really hope he gets better and they can make it tomorrow.

I think we're going to break tradition and both DP and I stay at home tonight. It's not ideal as we'll both have to get ready together but at least we can arrive at registry office together and support each others nerves.

It also looks like it's going to rain on our afternoon bbq meal (grrr British summertime!) but I am actually beginning to look forward to the big day! I've ballooned in the last week as well but am hoping everyone will tell me I look nice anyway.

Will be back after honeymoon. Take care and keep those bumps growing!

after birth i meant, last time by the time id had a bath and cleaned myself up it was quite late so dh couldnt stay v long and had to leave and the mw's wernt v helpful when i wanted them to show me how to change ds and things like that.

BBL, forgot to say, I've heard that back to back could be a reason for terrible back ache.
I guess, it's worth to speak to your GP or midwife. In my yoga classes, they always recommend being on all 4 against back pain. I quite like being on all 4 and making circles with my bottom. And two different teachers recommended being on all 4 to two women with babies in breech position as apparently it is more likely to turn when you are often in this position. Maybe they have more space? So maybe you could try that too?

Afternoon ladies

My Mum is a Scorpio and so is DS. Scorpios are supposed to be the most passionate sign in the zodiac so usi I suspect the comment was based on that. Passion can be a good thing though, it's a pre-requisite if you want to be successful ... let's just hope that ours don't want to be successful at overthrowing indiginous populations!!
DS is the sweetest and no hint of any genocide tendencies so I think we're safe!!

As for the birth - it's perfectly normal to be frightened of something so significant when you have no previous experience, or when your previous experiences have been less than positive.
Rest assured that your body WILL know what to do, and actually once you're in the swing of it (so to speak!) you just resign yourself to getting the job done. I think that it's all too easy for us to worry ourselves about it and get ourselves into a state.
My first was born at 36+4 and my second at 40+5 so who knows when this one will arrive. If he's 5 days late, then it's on DS' 4th birthday!!

Erika I've known a few Bryn's over the years, coming from Wales. Gavin and Stacey is a fab programme too

Trikken does that happen? Do you mean after the birth or during labour? Oh no, I won't like that either. Did most people who have done it before try to stay at home for as long as possible during labour? I imagine not many first babies are quick to arrive, are they? Having said that, a good friend had her first and it was 6 hours from start of labour to birth. Oh, the unknowns!!

Katster, glad its not just me being melodramatic! Is there anything stopping you opting for a CS? I'm seriously considering it, although I would rather not have an operation, I'm so worried about it being out of my control, just like you've said. I mean, either way, its going to hurt. Before I got ME my pain threshold was a lot higher, but hey hum.

Trikken, I'm scared about that bit too. I know they will be other people in the ward and everything, but I really wish DP could be there with me, like, all the time at first. Especially considering the warnings about staff shortages.

ursigurke - what a prick! I can honestly vouch for the fact that scorpios are not slappers. Boring even, as some believe in one true and only.
It is so much to do with upbringing. Otherwise we would only have twelve versions of human being running around the entire world.

im actually not scared of the birth as i think my body has done it once, it can do it again. Its all the other stuff such as being left alone in hospital when they send dh away that im dreading

Erika I am with you on the fear thing - and like you, don't feel scared so much of the pain, more of it all being dramatic and out of my control. Tbh I would go for an elective CS if I could

Ninja, what a cow! Some people...

I must say its very reassuring hearing from those of you that have done this before. Mum's friends son popped round yesterday (I thoroughly dislike him, but still... We used to be friends) and every so thoughtlessly said, "How are you going to get it out? You're tiny!" and so I've started panicking all over again. I'm so worried about things going wrong, I'm still thinking about an elective CS to try and avoid as many complications as possible. I'm not frightened of the pain, just of something going wrong, and it being out of my control.

ursigurke, I'm sure you'll look gorgeous, and have a fantastic day I've been warned about the staff shortages as well. Very helpful and comforting. Glad the blood test wasn't that bad.

*Katster, everyone needs a lazy day DP and I are having a lazy weekend. All I've done today is eat, watch films, and start crocheting a scarf for Bryn

katster, I wasn't really doing anything,I found it rather funny how somebody could say something like that. And I always thought he is a stupid person who is not really worth talking to so I was never bothered by his always impolite behaviour.
I was actually wondering if he thought it would be a good thing. The way he said it, was like saying a good thing. He is italian and quite a macho (if that is an english word), so maybe he was really trying to be nice

Usigurke at the guy!!! Wow, that is really quite something... What on earth did you say?! I might have been tempted to slap him! Someone once said to me, when I said I thought we were having a boy (still no-one knows we actually know) 'Oh well, atleast it won't be like you'!!

pavlov, what a nice day, lucky you.

Just came back from my midwife appointment, Lucozade test included. They took my blood only once (I had been scared it would be more often), one hour after I had the drink. Very proud of myself as I did not feel dizzy at all after. I just hope, the result will be fine, otherwise I'll have to do the big test (where they take it 3 or 4 times)
I got 2 leaflets about swine flu, this seems to be the major concern at the moment, apparently nothing else I should know . My antenatal appointments are in a separate clinic, not in the actual hospital and as they have cancelled all tours (to avoid too many people in the maternity unit), I'll probably see it only for the birth. And they went on about possible staff shortages in autumn, very reassuring.

I'm going to this fancy wedding on sunday, with black tie, evening or cocktail dress. I'm still worried about my pink I.O. dress, as I think the material (viscose) does not look smart enough. So I went to monsoon to see if they had something interesting on sale and found one (no maternity) empire line dress and I just looked fat in it, even from behind! Happy, that I tried it because now at least I'm sure a real maternity dress looks much better (and if I'm lucky, I hope to get similar compliments to Pavlov's)

about scorpio-girls (please do not continue to read if you believe in it): This incredibly impolite guy (excolleague of my husband), who usually doesn't even say "hi" to me when we meet (don't know why or what I did wrong), seemed suddenly friendly and interested in my pregnancy, just to then explain me (in detail and for about 5min) that scorpio girls are great because they have hot relationships, apparently I have to be a bit careful, as they tend to start relationships a bit too quick sometimes, but then really hot,... So he was actually trying to tell me that my unborn daughter will be a little slapper. TBH, I was kind of happy that he had managed once again to be just incredibly rude as at least I had been right with my judgement about him. But I was impressed about the "quality" of his insult (and luckily I don't believe in starsigns, I think, genes and education will have a say as well or I just keep on your "leader to the planet", ninja )

Everyone keeps on saying how well I'm looking - but when I look in the mirror I see a wreck. Too wierd

Who's getting married tomor? Whoever it is have a wonderful wonderful day!

I am being sooooo lazy today, it is naughty. We are having the spare room converted on Monday (it is currently falling apart!) and it needs to be totally emptied. Plus we are supposedly going to Ikea tomorrow so need to move everything and get tidied - I have done virtually nothing except move a few bags of stuff and sort some clothes to take to the charity shop! Boo!

BBL You're right about the whole childbirth scare story thing. The thing I am most enjoying about being off work is not having colleagues torment me with their horror stories!

Ninja that is appalling. I wouldn't leave a poorly child at home work or no work and to say that to you .... grrrr.

These weird dreams are fascinating! Mine are very weird too.

I went in to be indued with DS1, was 12 days late, and they put on the gell to kick start things and luckily that worked. Four hours later he came out! Please everyone try not to worry too much about the birth - everyone's experiences are so different and you really do only hear the horror stories. Who ever says 'I had an average labour, an average sized baby, and it all went averagely'. It is good to be prepared mentally though but try not to worry too much - not good for the soul.

Pavlov I was woolf whistled a couple of weeks ago and I wasn't sure whether they were taking the proverbial mickey or not. I'm 37 - no makeup, random maternity clothes, I was pushing DS2 in a pushchair and holding DS1's hand and with a belly the size of this... Well. I'd like to think it was real though - appreciation of how glowing I was! I'm sure you were glowing

Ninja what a bitch! Don't feel guilty - he's your child! Honestly, some people are so rude. Especially withe all the swine flu madness. Glad he's feeling a bit better though.

Had waters broken here, 12 years ago (looked like knitting needle with a hook) which also means I'll have two Ox dc's. Oops I see a future power struggle coming on.

I'm a bit pissed off today. DS has had a cough and temp since Weds evening and dp had to work today. I popped in to drop a few things off at work and my collegue (sp?) said she thought I was being a bit pathetic staying at home with a 12 year old and that she left hers at home with chickenpox because she had to work.
Any way got home to ds who is, I have to admit, looking particularly perky so feel really guilty now.

Tamlin I feel like a whale too. Was quite pleased up to a couple of weeks ago, but now my face feels fat and I just look gross. And another 16 weeks to go! Or 17 + 2 if that theory is right!
Glad no-one has been induced using the hammer and nail approach. It wasn't pleasant in the dream. Wook I don't like the sound of your cat breast-feeding experience! I had a dream a few times that I kept losing the baby. I was at my parents' house and my mum was screaming at me 'how on earth could you lose a baby?? Check his pram etc' - anyway, the cat was found sniffing around the settee and baby had fallen underneath all the cushions and was in the process of being smothered by the cat I am clearly going to be a useless mother!

Pavlov after the way you've been feeling, you SO deserved a day like that yesterday! I bet you were stunning. In fact, you probably still are. Keep strutting (but please, please leave a little trail behind to rub off on the rest of us).

I think the only thing about me that is an improved-while-pregnant version is a) my skin it's actually peachy for the first time since I was a teenager and b) the boobage, having gone up two cups.

Katster I'm a sagittarius. We talk a lot (I can't seem to hide it even on t'internet...) and we're restless. So they say.

Wook was quite scared by the famous Oxen until I got to Obama. And I guess what all those have in common is that they're all very charismatic people, born leaders... and in a way, good manipulators. Some just used their powers for evil. (WAIT! Good manipulators! Ooooh, the baby is going to walk all over me...)

Now if you would all please ban me from here until I've written about 3000 words of ACTUAL WORK. <gives self kick up the backside>

Wook, AUGGGH! What is it with some men and pregnancy?! I remember getting wolf-whistled at when cycling to work while seven months pregnant with DS, and I nearly fell off my bicycle with horror.

Most first babies are late if left to their own devices - a Mayo study found that in a survey of Caucasian primagravidas, labour didn't start naturally until 41 w 2 d. I always find this interesting given that the NHS will induce you at 41 w 3 d (when DS decided to show up)! You do get some lucky cows who go at 37 weeks though, so it's wise to have everything ready - a friend of mine had to send her husband off panicking to buy a carseat for their 37 weeker, and of course, he bought the most expensive model in the shop!

Don't pay a lot of attention to astrology, but a Chinese friend of mine got very excited about DS being a Golden Pig. Apparently he's going to be very rich and keep us all in his old age. I have no idea about the earning potential of Oxes...

Has anyone else suddenly turned into a whale overnight? I put on a pair of maternity jeans which were loose a month ago, and I could hardly squeeze my huge thighs and bottom into them. That's not baby-belly, that's ME.

if they have to break your waters, it is with as wook said, its like a knitting needle, it pops but won't hurt. And waters can and often do still break on their own when people are induced.

For all those worrying about the birth. Remember, for all the horror stories, the majority of births are straightforward, uncomplicated and go much quicker than you realise. Before you know it, you will be running around trying to keep up with a 3 year old!

Crikey I have just finished properly reading how to raise a Scorpio child and I can see I have my work cut out!

Katster This may or may not reassure you..I wasn't looking down when I had my waters broken but I am pretty sure it was more of a pin or hook and less of a nail. No hammer involved! It didn't hurt either. Like many aspects of labour, the thought is far worse than the reality........... on the whole!
When I was pregnant with ds the anxiety dream I had was that I wouldn't be able to feed him. Often I would dream I was trying to breastfeed a baby but it would turn out I was feeding a cat!! Again, no need for anxiety:feeding- glitchy at first but no worries and certainly no cats!
Pav sounds like a fab day! Maybe every day will be like this from now on? According to one of my (male) work colleagues 'There is nothing in the world more attractive than a pregnant woman'. This delivered in a slightly lascivious tone as he held a door open and leaned against the door frame rather suggestively. Yikes.
Ninja Thanks for the guidance, in fairness my horror at Scorpios is essentially linked to two colleagues who are ghastly by any standards. I have an incredible Scorpio friend so I will ask her more about how she was raised!
These babies are going to be Oxes (oxen) as well so I checked out famous ox personalities... Napoleon, Hitler, Idi Amin.. also Thatcher, though on a brighter note, Bruce Springsteen, Charlie Chaplin and Barak Obama.
I have too much time on my hands!!
Today is working out pretty well so far, thanks for all your kind thoughts

Katster I'm really worried about having to be induced as well. Or having to have an emergency CS... In fact, I'd quite like to skip from now to Christmas, and skip the whole childbirth experience! Don't think I've ever actually been more frightened of anything!!

katster - no promise that is not how you would be induced if it has to happen! You will be given an anema {sp} i beleive, or possibly a drip, of I think it is oxytocin which will help start contractions. DD was 10 days early, after we were threatened with induction. She arrived 2 days before I was booked in for it. Lovely girl!

Pav I really hope baby is early - just a week or two - but seriously do not want to go overdue and have to be induced! In fact I had a nightmare about this last night, that the way they induced you was by hammering a nail (yes, a nail!) up your bits to burst the amniotic sack. It was quite scary. Please reassure me this is not how labours are induced!! Out of interest, how many people's first babies were a bit early?

Ah but katster baby might be early!

Hmm well EDD is 21st Nov so if baby is late or on time, he will be a Sagittarius anyway! What are they like?!

becky - it is, DH is 8th of March.

I cannot believe I'm nearing the last trimester... Well, a month to go, but still.

Pavlov - Your post did make me giggle. Though I've been checked out more since being pregnant than I've ever been, I'm sure!! Its crazy, as I can't think of a time when my skin and hair have looked worse, and I've felt less sexy. Still, its an ego boost Just have to stop DP hissing like a cat at anyone that dares so much as wink at me when I'm with him

DS1 is a scorpio and this one likely to be too. Will they get on together I wonder? I don't really know much about scorpios as everyone in my family are either Capricorn (me), Cancer (my mum, brother and strangely most of my close friends), or Aquarius (DH - he is sooo aquarius). DS2 is - err dunno! Born March 3rd. Not sure what that is. Is that Picies? Are they cheeky little monkeys? If so DS2 is a typical Picies!

lemontop - have a wonderful day tomorrow and all the best wishes for everything that comes after. Enjoy the day and have a fantastic time on your honeymoon.

erika - that's shocking. Report it straight away.

wook, tamlin - thinking about you.

tigger - hope you have a great holiday.

ninja - hear, hear for the scorpio girlies, not as scary as legend has it.
I wonder if bumpkin is going to be born on time or not - due on the 29th, so not scorpio anymore. How would that be: both mum and daughter scorpios? Good job DH not interested in astrology

LOL I was bookmarking it, as i had lost it then found it then realised it will be gone by the time i lose it again. sorry for the confusion

Pavlov living up to your Forgetful name there? Psst remember to write in the box before posting x

Wook and Tamlin thinking of you.

Lemontop hope you have a perfect day.

this happened to me yesterday! So strange. They do say though lightning never strikes twice!

It was a personal message. So shocked...

Becky - I had that a few weeks ago and was told its the same thing. Mine eased off in a few days. Having a warm bath helped, because he moved around a lot in it. Hope you feel better soon

what if we don't raise them well?

"Raise your Scorpio well and you will give an incredible leader to the planet. They have the brilliance, compassion, and stamina to create anything they set their minds to. Scorpios can change the world."

"Raising a Scorpio Child

I'm not really into astrology but us Scorpios get a lot of bad press.

.

Erika Oh my god, that is absolutely shocking. Was the message posted on a wall or an individual message? You should def report that...

Just had DH's mum on the phone - she is adamant we are having a girl... No-one in RL knows we know and everyone seems to think we are having a girl. I'm really worried now about how she'll be when a little boy pops out in November!

Oh, and Erika that's APPALLING. Not to mention highly illegal in this country... well done for reporting it, I hope it does get taken further - she's preying on vulnerable girls in a fragile state!

Wook I have read Starter for Ten and seen the film. Loved it. It reminded me of my students days ... nostalgia. The soundtrack is great too.

I've woken up today with the most excruciating back pain at the bottom of my back. Walking up and down the stairs is agony. I'm supposed to be taking the DSs to my dad's caravan for a week next week but if my back is like this then there is no way I'll cope ... What is going on? My mum says the baby is probably back to back and pressing on a nerve. Is that normal?

Erikamaye that is shocking. How did they find you on facebook? Horrible people.

Lemontop you are probably really busy getting ready today but good wishes to you for tomorrow! I hope you have a lovely, lovely day.

Morning all,

Nearly the weekend! I very much doubt you'll have time to read this Lemon but HAPPY WEDDINGDAY! <3 There's an old saying that goes something like... "may the best you've seen so far be the worst you'll see in the future" or something. I obviously can't think of the wording now as that looks dumb, but the gist of it anyway...

I'm feeling strangely giddy today, not sure why. (In a good way though.)

My Mum's birthday is a week after my EDD, so she's telling everyone she'll have a birthday present in form of a grandchild. I usually tut at horoscopes, but this year (thanks to facebook with its birthday reminders) I noticed that nearly all of my ex's (not that there's THAT many, but still) are Pisces! I'm not good at maths so can't work out the odds of that happening randomly but wouldn't have thought it's that likely. DH, on the other hand, is a Virgo.

You know those kittens I've had running around since May? The first one is going to a new home on the weekend. It's such a relief as I can't be doing with the getting woken up 4-5 times a night, but I'm going to be such a wet rag... I wasn't going to let myself get attached to them, but I have.

wook I think I've chipped every single piece of crockery that we own in the past 26 weeks. I'm clumsy at the best of times, but I'm out of control now...

I read "On the Other Hand" by Chris Cleave the other week. Fab. Different (and v. cryptical as they don't tell you much at all about the story in the blurb) but really good. Tearjerker though... I liked it so much, and then a couple of days later just happened to watch a film called Incendiary, loved it and at the end realized it was based on Cleave's first book!

Tigger you're right (are you going somewhere sunny?) we do need a new thread. How about Third Trimester is a Charm or something? <wishful thinking>

Katster - I'm a Taurus, and DP is Aquarius, so we're not supposed to be together either And birthday wise - DP's mother's birthday is the week after my EDD, so I'm terrified I'm going to be late, as she'd never forgive me!!! We've also decided we don't want to know about anyone with the same name as the baby, although thankfully we've only heard of one Bryn so far (off a show called Gavin or Stacey or something..?) and supposedly he's a cool character. But no more!!!

Have a good holiday tigger

I just got a message on facebook - FACEBOOK!! - off someone who is obviously stalking the teen pregnancy groups, asking if we would like her and her husband to take our baby "off our hands". Going to report it, as some of the girls are younger and a lot more vulnerable. I'm really shocked that someone would even send that!!

Hi everyone,
Just wanted to wish Lemontop lots of luck for a wonderful day tomorrow. Enjoy yourself!
And to say I'm thinking of wook and Tamlin today as well.
Hope you all have a great weekend.

Wook thinking of your today. Also, re Scorpio thing, I am terrified as my EDD is birthday of a mad aunt... And DH keeps telling me of people who are born in November and I keep thinking, 'hmm, they are nice but I am not sure I want baby to be exactly like them because XXXXX' so I think it is normal - just a way of trying to get 'information' on someone we know so little about, as of yet! If that makes sense?! DH and I are both August birthdays (Leos) and NOTHING like the typical 'leo' traits anyway. Plus, Leos are never meant to get together either! So it's probably a load of rubbish (apologies to any secret astrologers out there...)

Ooo Tigger where are you off on hols? Have a lovely time.

Scorpion yep, that's the bit!! Apparently James's wife had a baby girl just after they got back.

oh meant to say, has anyone thought of a good title for the next thread yet? Its not far away by the look of things

Morning all,
Just popping in quickly as I have a very busy day today,
Packing everything for holiday
Cleaning house from top to bottom

Thinking about wook and tamlin today

lemontop I may not get chance to say this later so, Congratulations on your wedding day tomorrow, I hope you have a fantastic day and that you and your dh (to be) will have a wonderful life together.

Thanks for the positive comments about the medication, ladies Will just have to see how things go with the doctor. Am feeling a little better just being with my DP He always knows just what to say, how to balance out serious comments with witty ones. Don't know what I'd do without him

Ugh, Brighton traffic is terrible today - was diverted for about half an hour on a busy bus trying to get into town!! And then when we went to Tesco's, it was so damn busy, yet they only had a couple of check outs open, which is really smart. * rolls eyes * Was in a wheelchair, and I can see a complaint building, as I couldn't reach to use to the self check out machine... Letter writting time tomorrow me thinks!!!

Thinking of you for tomorrow, Wook and Tamlin.

BeckyBendyLegs Thanks! I read One Day the other week, it's a lovely book- very good fun but will stay with you afterwards too, there is a lot of warmth in it and I think the way it is such a page turner masks what a cleverly written book it is as well. Have you read 'Starter For Ten', also David Nicholls? That is hilarious and with the added bonus of James Mc Avoy AND Dominic Cooper in the film (not that I care for men or sex at the moment in the least! )
I finished The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters the other week - that is a bloody scary book which did nothing for my insomnia!- so I need some more recommendations for summer reads if anyone has any?
Ooh PS I just realised I may have offended Scorpio people in last post, which is obviously a VERY silly, actually possibly dangerous, thing to do, so many apologies

Wook not all us scorpio girlies are to be feared

Wook and Tamlin my thoughts will be with you tomorrow. I had that day on December 7th. Wook you have the right attitude. It's hard. Big hugs.

Katster DH is less busy but now I am more busy! I've been working every evening this week! Just turning my lappy off now. I can't wait to go on maternity leave for a 'break' from work!!!

Watching BB now...then bed with a good book (One Day by David Nicholls for those book worms out there - it's good fun).

katster - I know exactly what you mean, when Ben said 'Next thing for me? Family'. Waaahhhh.

Thanks for thoughts about tomorrow, I am just going to spend the day being happy that life goes on and I'm pregnant again- maybe a little word with the lost one in a quiet moment.
I know what you all mean about exercise- really am longing for a swim, have been too busy to go for a couple of weeks and can barely get up the stairs without wheezing like an old woman!
How weird exactly can hormones make a person go? I keep dropping plates- can that be put down to hormones? Broke another one today. What about crying on hearing 'Earth Song' when previously I would have thought that Jarvis Cocker's response to it (when Michael Jackson performed it at the Brits) was more appropriate? And how utterly stupid is it to be scared of having a Scorpio daughter because that is the same star sign as my psycopathic boss? Can all this oddness be just down to the pregnancy hormones? Or is it lack of alcohol- does that glass of red wine of an evening just iron everything out nicely and is this what state my head is in without it??
On a brighter note, have settled on the first name now. Just middle names to solve.

Yes I know, the wine's tricky isn't it? I have gone down the 'I cant just have one so I'll not bother' route so far. Honestly, I'm not a heavy drinker either, I promise!! Is it totally out of the question when BF-ing too then? Oh gawwwwd!!

Broodzilla I can't wait to get running again, too! I feel all un-toned and generally flabby all over... Not sure when I will next get to go though...

BBL has your and your DH's work situation improved? I hope so, you sounded mega stressed the other week.

Hope everyone's having a good evening. We just watched On Thin Ice taped from Sunday (did anyone watch it? The South POle thing?) and it made me cry !

Just wanted to say I'll be sending warm thoughts to those with difficult anniversaries tomorrow. I'm sure being pregnant again at this time must mean a bag of mixed emotions, but it's also proof that life and hope has won in a way.

Erika glad you're also feeling more positive, hopefully you'll have a lovely few days with DP and you can re-connect.

Katster welcome back! Know what you mean about missing wine... I wouldn't say that I was a heavy drinker before getting pregnant, but would definitely enjoy a cheeky glass of red a few nights of the week. I think I'm finding it easier to deprive myself completely than to allow myself a teensy little one. I know you shouldn't really drink while BFing either, but boy will I be having a celebratory glass come November when the bean is out!

Also missing exercise... it's such a strange feeling isn't it, on the one hand I feel like I've been preggers for an eternity and am so fed up with knackering myself out with a tour around Tesco (not to mention the terrifying thought of how the hell am I going to cope with labour when Tesco is a battle?) but at the same time I obviously want to stay pregnant for at least another 10 weeks, and also puts things into perspective reading that other people have been pregnant for the best part of a year

Can't wait to get back to the gym though. Or an early morning run. Aaaaah. (Actually, I'm sure it'll feel like hell to start of with, but one fine day it'll feel awesome...)

Welcome back Katster!

I love wine too and miss it DH opened a bottle of rioja the other day and I had a small glass and it was sooo yummy. I feel bad for having the odd glass though - the baby police have a lot to answer for. When I was pregnant with DS1 the odd glass was postively recommended.

Hi kaster welcome home! glad you had a good holiday, I feel pretty much the same about the wine, I'm desperate I've promised myself the odd glass while we are away. How annoying about the hoover bags!

erika don't feel guilty about the tablets, like Kaster said you'll be much more use to your ds if you are feeling good about yourself. I was on anti depressants for the 1st 3 months of this pregnancy and had I felt I needed to would have stayed on them.

BBL yeah for no gaviscon

fruitpastes glad all ok at the midwife, I think I'm going to have a big baby this time around too, (s)he is almost on the 75th centile already!

Thanks Katster I know... I guess I'm just kind of disappointed in myself for not being able to cope without it. Its been five months now, nearly. We'll see what the doctor says. They keep saying it because he's ill as well. Its really hurting me I don't think we have a negative impact on each other in the slightest, quite the contrary. There's been some comments about his age as well. I know he was out of line last week, but some people are being very cruel

Oh that's just what you need when you're tidying!!! I've just emptied my storage boxes - amazing how much crap one can aquire, really. BUT I messed up my nails They were looking for pretty after my hard work yesterday. Now I'm going to sulk.

See post a few pages back about crying over Pate You can have the odd glass of wine... I never really drunk heavily anyway, but sometimes its just so nice to have a glass of Rose with dinner... Have you tried aqua aerobics? Not quite the gym, I know, but I went this week, and loved it - totally made me feel okay about not going to the gym. And yoga. Yoga is goooood

Erika you absolutely musn't feel guilty for needing to take the medication - I'm sure Drs will do extra checks on baby anyway, but think of it as a medical need. I know from past experience how you can reach a point where you NEED medication, much like you would for any physical condition, so don't feel guilty. You will be much more use to your son if you are mentally able to cope with motherhood. Why do people keep telling you you would be better off not with DP? I hope everything's OK.

I am wading through a huge pile of cleaning/tidying, and the vacuum has just exploded . It's my fault - the bag was way too full, but we don't have any spares so manically searching online for somewhere that will get them to me tomorrow! Sorry - v boring domestic post!

Anyone else feeling like they should be further on than they are? I am 24 weeks but I really feel fed up of it now, like I should be due next month or something. Also, I reeeeeeally miss the gym, nice clothes, and not feeling fat. Grrrrr. And WINE. Every night on hol, DH tucked into some kind of delicious looking alcoholic drink, and it made me reeeally jealous!! God, I sound like an total alcoholic now, but I absolutely can't wait for my next glass of perfectly-chilled Chablis!!!

Thanks Tigger, yeah am feeling a bit more perky. Going to stay with DP for a few extra days, as I'm sure that everyone being around when I'm used to being by myself isn't helping.

I couldn't sleep at first last night, and Bryn was moving around like crazy, so I played him some music on my phone - first song I happened to find was Nickleback's Photograph, and he seemed to love it

Worked up the courage and called the doctors this morning, got an appointment to talk about going back on my medication Monday afternoon. Going to try and get them to do weekly checks on him for the first few weeks, as theres a possibility it can affect his heart. Feel terribly guilty for needing to go back on them, but think its best right now.

Getting V fed up with people on here and in RL telling me that things would be better if I wasn't with DP.

Yey for not needing gaviscon Becky

Glad that everyone looked good with the MW, Fruitpastels I'm sure things will even out again by your next appointment. I feel huge already, can't believe theres still 15 weeks to go!

Ohhh did you have a good time, Katster? Quite nice to hear that I'm not the only one lacking control over my flood gates right now.

Hi everyone, I am back from hols!! Seems like ages away and I am never going to be able to catch up on everything!
So just saying hi really, and will try to catch up properly, I promise.
Lemontop it's your wedding this weekend, isn't it? Eeeek, you must be so excited. Or maybe a tiny bit stressed?! But you'll have a fab time.
My cat is soooo pleased to see me, he won't leave me alone.
Also, just scanned and seen lots of people feeling v emotional - spent most of the holiday bursting into tears at inopportune moments and feeling v up and down emotionally, so maybe it is 'natural' for this part of the pregnancy? I don't know, am hoping so though, I am behaving like a loon at the min...

Had my midwife appointment this morning. She is happy with everything. But, I'm measuring 2 weeks further along, 28 instead of 26+1 . Midwife is happy with that as I lost loads of weight when I had bad MS. So I'm wondering if Im gonna have a big baby if I carry on at this rate, or the possibility it will arrive early! I'm only petite and not very tall so I'm a tad worried. DS weighed 7.4oz and that was big for me!

Yeah! I feel like celebrating. Last night was the first night in ages I didn't need any gaviscon in the middle of the night. (Sad the things that make us happy!)

Scarlotti I know how you feel. I've had two MCs so have had the 'horrible bit' (ie MS, tiredness, etc) five times now in six years. I spent the best part of 2002 being pregnant as had MC at 12 weeks, had a month off then got pregnant with DS2. It is worth it though!

Yeah, I'm starting to feel like an elephant - although aren't they pregnant for 2 years?!

Our hospital will allow you to park temporarily in A&E whilst Dad gets Mum up to the maternity unit. Then he has to go back and park the car. DH doesn't drive so we used a taxi with DS - by far the easiest option. I'd recommend if it's feasible cost wise for you.

Do we think that staffing levels might be a problem come November then? I hadn't really started to think about that.

Morning,
Thanks for the messages of support, I feel much better today.
Got a busy 2 days now as we go away on Saturday for 2 weeks weather is looking terrible though!

tamlin glad you got on well with your doula, that must be a huge relief!

scarlotti that's a long time pregnant and a lot of hormones, it will be worth it come November though

sleepless hope you enjoy the wedding, I'm sure you'll look great in your new dress.

erika hope your brother is in a better mood after a good nights sleep!

Right better get on.

im quite worried about the lack of parking at the hospital, it is quite big but always full. both scans we had to park 10 mins away and walk up through town. last time we were lucky and there was one space free. hopefully we will be lucky again.

Boo! Just saying hello everyone after finishing work for the day and before shutting lappy down.

Someone has just started to kick me as I type this from the inside, of course!

Scarlotti, you'll have been pregnant or recovering from pregnancy for well over a year then! I hope you're taking really good care to eat well.

Tigger, I'm glad you had a chance to do a 'dry run' - can you imagine trying to find the maternity suite while in labour? And do you have to do the ten minute walk while in labour, or is there a special delivery carpark? I've been warned that apparently the hospital I've now decided to deliver at is a bit labyrinthine and higgledy-piggledy in its layout, so we'll have to go exploring ahead of time.

We just had our first official appointment with our doula, and she was lovely. I think I'll be very comfortable throwing up all over her. I did warn her to bring an extra shirt in case of projectile splatter, and she seemed very unfazed - hurray! She did say that apparently both local hospitals are worrying about staff shortages this autumn with not enough midwives to go around when the flu really hits, so I am privately very glad that DH agreed to a doula - I didn't say this to her, but if push comes to shove (hah), she may wind up catching the baby because DH won't want to do it!

Lemontop, I hope that all your family keep any angst out of your earshot on the day so you and DP can just enjoy yourselves...

Tamlin I too feel as though I've been pg forever. Fell pg at the beginning of last August, m/c early Sept, pg again with no period then m/c xmas eve. Got thoroughly rat-arsed over Xmas which did make me feel much better, then pg again early Feb.
The cocktail of hormones I've been living with is immense.

Didn't realise you were off to the US - hope it's not too much hassle for you and you enjoy it when you're settled there.

Just watched the photo film, how beautiful.

tigger hope you've recovered from your hectic day

Sorry to those who lost a baby on Fri..Do think of them and be happy you have bubbas who can't wait to see their mummies.

* tigger* sorry for your rather hard day..are you better?

Going to my spanish wedding this weekend and wearing my IO Jessica whatsername dress. I still look like a whale!

Just checked out those dresses, aren't they goregous?? I'm jealous of you having an excuse to wear then Though I'm loving my MotherCare trousers, so damn comfortable.

I can't decide whether to rant and rave or cry right now. The fact I'm worrying about DP is not his problem, apparently, and he doesn't want to spend his life reassuring me if I'm not willing to believe him. That doesn't seem fair. Gah.

My brother is driving me bonkers - he went to a sleep over last night, so has had about three hours sleep, its raining, and like any younger sibling he's determind to make my life as awkward as possible. Might have to smoother him in the night.

wow haven;t looked on this for ages & everyone being very busy

I have active bump at teh moment kicking away all the time.. haven;t found out the sex ..

Koumak - i just bought the green Isabella Oliver empire wrap dress in sale - is that the same as yours?

Was hoping to get it today so could wear it to lunch meeting tomorrow but hasn't come yet. Am debating getting one of the other s before sale ends on sunday... such pretty stuff altho kinda pricey

Tigger32 do you think a lot of people give birth there in car park or the corridors then? Sounds like a long journey. Maybe they are after proactive labours and just catch the babies on arrival?

I am a bit better energy wise. But feel a bit like getting food poisoning (not sure from what though) or swine flu? - Warning TMI and cant decide which end its going to come out IYKWIM

Should be working but getting all the paperwork ready to start suing my landlord. Also, wearing my black wrap Isabella Oliver dress. Had loads of comments already. But they don’t know I am wearing pregnancy spanx underneath I found on figleaves.com. And do I need them!

Does anybody get difficulty breathing? Any fast movement and my lungs go to override. But funny thing is I get it when I lay down at night as well. I fall asleep sitting up now!

Trying to get tomorrow and Friday off. Wish me luck!

Christ, Tigger, that sounds like a nightmare! You poor thing... It always suprises me how little thought goes into the logistical planning of hospital layouts. But I'm glad everything is okay, and they gave you the all clear for the centre

Congratulations on the engagement ninja*

*koumak hope you are feeling better today

wook and tamlin so sorry that friday will be difficult for you both, it is perfectly acceptable to be upset, so please don't feel like you are being ungrateful, take some time out to think about your lost baby if you feel you want to.

erika good to see you back

mumsiebumsie Congratulations on the scan, I saw a thread on the pregnancy topic about 2/3 vessels, it seems quite common and it looks as though you will be monitored closely. As for the placenta previa that too is common and usually corrects itself, they should have given you a measurement of how far it is covering your cervix, this is normally a good guide as to whether or not it can move.

What a nightmare day I had yesterday!
A few weeks ago I moved hospitals, I got a letter a week later asking me to go to the new hospital for a scan, I phoned them and explained I'd already had a 20 week scan so they cancelled it. Last Monday a letter came saying I had missed my scan and here is a new date Once again I phoned the hospital, this time I was told it wasn't for scan but to see a midwife and that if I didn't go I couldn't give birth there (I am hoping to birth at a local midwife centre but need a consultant hospital just in case)So I agreed to go...
This is where the pain started the hospital is an hour away in the city, luckily I have a friend who lives about 20 mins from the hospital, so I dropped boys off with her and fought my way through city traffic to the hospital,
On arriving the car park has moved to a 10 minute walk from the hospital , finally park up to find its pay and display not pay on leaving, I only have a £10 note! The ticket man wouldn't give me change so I had to walk 10 mins to hospital, buy a bottle of water walk 10 mins back and que for 5 mins at the only ticket machine!
I had to call to say I would be late

Finally get to the hospital and because I've come from a different way I have no idea where I am, luckily there is a lady who directs you, she said oh dear its at least 15 minutes from here to maternity!
So... I finally arrive at maternity and get sent through to the midwife desk who... have no record of me after lots of messing around they agree I can see a doctor for an antenatal check (i was close to tears by now) half an hour later I'm seen by a lovely lady doctor. However she looks at all my previous scans and decides she is not happy, she sends me off to be rescanned, luckily all is fine and she finally agrees its ok for me to be referred back to the midwife centre for the rest of my care.
After picking the boys up from my friend's house I finally arrived home at 6.30pm last n night feeling shattered and emotionally drained.
So sorry to have ranted on and thanks if you've read any of it!

Thanks for wedding wishes. Can't wait for the day to come to be honest. Stress levels have gone up since relatives arrived. I thought everything was sorted but yesterday I had my mam crying about who is going in the wedding car! Honestly when relatives say 'we'll so whatever you like' it's just not true and not worth the hassle. grrrrrr

The heavy rain forecast also doesn't make our bbq plans sound too great either.

Roll on honeymoon on Sunday!

Trikken, yours showing favoritisum too?? He always kicks more for DP DP doesn't even have to poke him, just say, "Daddy's here, Bryn!" and he goes crazy! I would sulk about it but DP gets so happy about it its hard to feel resentful

Scarlotti - I've started reading to him if he's awake when I'm reading. He seems to enjoy it. I tried the old classical music thing but got no responce, he seems to enjoy DPs rock more haha!!

Tamlin, I'm not surpised you're stressing, I definately would be! Poor you... All sounds very hectic to even contemplate. Though I'm sure it will be the best thing ever when you get over there

The baby I lost would have been due just two weeks before this one. I was in Australia teaching on my due date, away from friends and family, and it was the hardest day. I'll be thinking of you, Wook. x

Ohhh yes, Lemontop, have a fantastic day!!!

DP still being very distant, I know he's relapsed Don't think I could stand it if he started to push me away again. Vere tempted to just turn up there later - I'm sure I could find an excuse - just to make sure he's okay... The longer you leave a relapse without catching it, the harder it is to get back out. Maybe its because of that but I'm getting irrationally angry each time I see an advert about weight loss or something related to it online or on TV. GAH.

I gave myself a French manicure earlier, and if I do say so myself it looks reasonably tidy! My hands are getting steadier

Wow, just watched the life in motion, amazing! Cried pretty much from start to finish. I might get dh to take pictures when I am in labour, he is really good at photography and I regret not doing it for ds, what a lovely way to remember such a special day.

Wook, my due date for the baby I miscarried at the New Year would have been this Friday. Without sounding hugely ungrateful for this current pregnancy, I feel as if I've been pregnant forever - since last October?! I had a four week break in the middle, but I think I rather wasted it by crying a lot and not drinking nearly enough red wine.

Am also getting emotional at little stuff, but I think that's because if I think about the big stuff - have I mentioned DH's company are transferring us to the US this February so I'm going to be on my own in snowbound Virginia with a three month old and a toddler?! - my head will implode. It's easier to fret about DS's newfound ability to climb out of his cot.

http://www.lifeinmotionphotography.com/slideshows/amerlyn/

cried and cried and cried....hormones eh!
thanks for that it was lovely

Happy wedding day lemontop and remember to enjoy yourself

I've read that interacting with your baby whilst inside is a good thing, and strengthens the bond for both mum and baby. The baby will obviously feel the pokes, but will also feel the pleasure hormones from the Mum from the interaction and so will pick up on it being a lovely thing iyswim.

I tend to chat away to him at night if he's kicking/moving - works for me!

wook will be thinking of you Friday. We had our day a few weeks back as it was the due date of the baby we lost. Nothing wrong with marking the memory of a lost one, and it bears no relation to the happiness you feel for this one so just go with how you feel.

I've had a few bits of pate along the way

Erika Pate is the one thing i miss most of all. told marty thats what i want to have the first morning home with the baby.
we also play poke me and i'll poke you back,(she seems to respond to daddys hand more than me for some reason.) did with ds too and it did no harm, i think you would be hurting yourself too if you were doing it hard enough to hurt him.

wook - you have real reasons to get emotional. Friday is a real landmark for you, I feel I should be congratulating you as well as commiserating. So pleased how things are looking up for you 1 year on

Thanks beepbeep and broodzilla, makes me feel a little better hearing its not just mine! I was really scared I'd hurt him at water aerobics or something but this morning he woke me up kicking away for feel happier We played "Poke me and I'll poke you back" for a bit, which I'm sure you're not really supposed to do, but I love it

About being overly emotional... I burst into tears last week when DP told Bryn he loved him. Which is guess is mildly acceptable. But then I cried in Tesco's because I saw Pate and miss it so much. There was a lovely woman pushing a new born who patted me on the shoulder and reassured me, "Just a few months, and you can eat what you want."

Dad's making bacon sandwiches this morning - SCORE!!! That's always a good start to the day... (Sorry to any Veggies out there!) Therapy has been cancelled today because she's ill, and I totally jumped on the bandwagon by presuming that it MUST be Swine Flu. Wow, the media have this one sussed.

becky an Amby is a Baby Hammock which they sleep in instead of a crib or a cot. Put ours together last night and then very reluctantly put it away is it's not time yet... Have a look at amby.co.uk

erika Glad you're able to see it that way - and remember, that you'll be able to do whatever your friends have planned now, in a few years. I mean, by the time you're as old the same age as most of us on this thread your baby will be nearly a teenager and you'll have your whole life ahead of you!
Also, my bean was so busy a couple of days ago that I nearly called the MW. He was moving CONSTANTLY, all day. Now he's back to his usual routine where he's got clear cycles of movement and sleep (or whatever it is they get up to!)

Re: being overly emotional. I ended up in tears yesterday because the trolley in Tesco had a wonky wheel...

Trikken and mumsiebumsieI am so glad that I am not the only one prone to getting emotional or irritable over trivial things at the moment!
I think it is because the big things I'm worried about at the moment are quite overwhelming- how will I cope with two? How will we get the house sorted out? How are we going to pay the mortgage?- so it is easier to not think about those and go into meltdown about not being able to find the lid to the food processor instead! Or weep over some soppy advert!
One thing I am feeling quite happy/sad about is that Friday is the anniversary of my first miscarriage last year. Feel sad for obvious reasons, but also so thankful that I can feel this little girl alive and kicking (ALL the time!!!). If you'd told me around this time last year that a year on I'd be fine, all was not lost, and that everything would work out just fine I wouldn't have believed it- but it's true!

My eyes are constantly welling up at the smallest things now. Feel like I'm on an emotional rollercoaster so you're not alone.

Although to be honest Trikken if my DH put marmite on my toast I'd cry to! Can't abide the stuff

Is anyone else getting irritable or emotional at silly things? yesterday dh said he'd make lunch, which was nice of him cos usually he's working, although he suggested cheese on toast which i didnt really fancy but thought "ok since he's going to make it i'll go with what he wants." he always puts marmite underneath the cheese, and asked me if i wanted marmite, and i said "no, im not in the mood for marmite, but can I have ketchup in it please?" "yes" says he. fine, he makes it and we sit down to eat it, bite into it and its sodding marmite. I could have screamed and cried simultaneously. trivial but couldnt help it. i did eat most of it, but in a complete grump even tho i know i should have been greatful he made it.

tamlin - thanks, I'm sitting here in my office crying my eyes out. What a beautiful record. That's DH's tutorial sorted. Thank you again.

Erika - don't worry about movement (unless it goes on for a few days), the babies are just like us and have days when they have loads of energy and other days when they are really sleepy ad you don't feel them much. I know it's easy to say not to worry, but don't!!

Lemontop - hope al goes well with your wedding and you have a great da.

Helips - Thing is with ED's, therapy isn't always the best thing, because they're secretive conditions. I know it didn't help me. But he has agreed to consider support groups instead, so thats a good sign. I'm waiting for the infomation to come through about antenatal groups, though we are going to a one session thing as a couple next month - the ones I'll be going to are for under 19s, so I'm worried about him feeling out of place. I am looking forward to meeting some other young mums Feel better soon!!

Mumsie - Congrats on your girl

Koumack - With my ongoing palava with the photo company (Grrr!!!) I've found a website called askuklaw.co.uk really helpful. I think that's what its called. I'll double check and get back to you Hope things get sorted out soon. x

I went to my first aqua aerobics tonight! Am so TIRED - ME, pregnancy and water weight lifting...!!! But, I really enjoyed myself. I went with two of the girls from my old sixth form, and listened slightly jealously to their plans for September, but at the same time, stood there quite smugly while they cooed over my bump I have moments where I wish things had been different, but then I snap back, and remember that I have a handsome little man on the way. I wouldn't change things for the world.

Bryn (DP seems quite insistant we call him by name now!!!) hasn't been moving much tonight, feeling a bit concerned... So terrified of something going wrong. Am such a worrier..!!

Scarlotti I am with you - gaviscon is my god at the moment.

Eeyore I love the jammmies

Am I dim but ... what is an amby? Do I need one? Do I wear it or is it a type of buggy?

DH has just had a new TV delivered - its big. We're watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer on it. It's like having Buffy and co right here in the room with us.

Hmm, foetal movement would make sense for FM seen. Shame, there was me thinking it might be something exciting!
She told us it's a boy but to be honest, I couldn't see what she was looking at. She then moved in really quickly to checking the other bits. She did sound sure but I guess as I hadn't seen it I feel a little sceptical.
Control freak .... who me?? .... not at all

helips, I really hope you will soon feel better! I guess, sleeping would be a good idea (at least, that's what my grandmother used to say)

Lemontop, you will probably quite busy with your family for the next days, so I'm already wishing you all the best for your wedding day now! Just enjoy being with family and friends celebrating with you this important moment of your life! May it be a great start in a great life as a new family (soon getting bigger)!
skorpion, that book sounds interesting, will have a look at it. I really agree with you about birth being a natural thing rather than a medical one. (and I even agree on that "ask me in 4 months time ). I am feeling positive to, not yet scared but I guess that is something I will have to go through as well. Had already some moments when reading about giving birth.
Koumak, I hope you will get some quality sleep tonight. You really seem to need it.
scarlotti, I agree with you on that there seem to be nobody explaining things to us. I always have this feeling that I'm just having a check up with someone and when I'm back with the regular person "treating" me, I will get some explanations... but there is no such person. I was so nice to see my gynaecologist in Vienna. It is such a difference being with someone who knows you since years, she was really happy that I came to "visit" her, was very interested in my British notes, explained the scan results, did another scan and explained everything (and made nice comments about how smart and beautiful our child will be ) I don't want to complain about anybody who had been dealing with me, they were all nice, but I miss a certain consistency.
mumsiebumsie, I really think it doesn't matter where on the scale the different sizes are as long as nothing is really out of it. Some parts of my baby are on the lower side, some of the bigger one. The placenta moves in most cases, that's what I've read everywhere, and even if it doesn't, it would be a managable problem, as they can see it on the scan and in the "worst case", you just would need a caesarian. About the umbilical cord, I don't have any information that could help you but I guess, if they told you it would be nothing to worry about it's fine. I hope you can relax and enjoy the rest of your pregnancy with a little bit less worry.

Hi all,

Congrats on the pink mumsiebumsie whenever I read your name I want to call you mumsiebunny for some reason! Anyway, welcome back into the fold

After reading what some of you posted about the Amby Hammock thingy I checked it out on Kiddicare. I must admit, it does look rather good, the thing is though I already have a moses basket that I used with ds. Do I go ahead and get one anyway? Am worried that it's just another gimmick and don't want to waste money if not necessary. Anyone know anybody that's used one?

koumak get yourself another early night if you can. Hope you feel better tomorrow, it's hard work this pregnancy lark!

Still not feeling 100%, got a headache and sore throat. Its been over a week since doctor diagnosed swine flu and can't believe I still feel rubbish. I think dh is getting fed up with my moaning about various things, yesterday It was sore throat and piles, today sore throat and headache blah blah blah! Think he is losing sympathy!

Actually just got a text from him, he is still at the office so won't be home until gone 9.30pm, might as well get an early night then (or just mumsnet all night!)

Erika I had a nosy at your thread too. Sorry you've been upset by some of the comments, I hope your dp does go for some help though, it can't do any harm and will mean less pressure on you. Please don't feel like you should leave mumsnet, you've done nothing wrong and even if you just stay with us at least you have a sounding board and we will always support you. Also, have you discussed with your mw about some ante natal groups yet? I think it would really help to speak to people your age going through the same experience. At least that way you can have something else to focus on when things get too much.

Oh my word just taken a look at http://www.lifeinmotionphotography.com/slideshows/amerlyn/.

I want that woman's life - her man's lovely.

So beautiful. Thanks for posting that Tamlin.

Scarlotti, isn't that 'foetal movement'? Like 'FH' is 'foetal heartbeat'?

Mumsiebumsie, two of the mothers in my toddler group (who are pregnant again, like me) had partial placenta praevia at the 20 week scan, and in both cases, it's moved north. Will keep fingers crossed that yours does too!

Skorpion, if you like Ina May, you might like this slideshow of a homebirth (no graphic pictures). Think it's the nicest birth story I've seen or read (and think I've got a bit of a crush on her bloke):

http://www.lifeinmotionphotography.com/slideshows/amerlyn/

I think I'm going to rewatch it next time I start getting anxious and frightened about DS's birth again.

Speaking of DS, he seems to be bouncing back - he's complaining bitterly at being under house arrest, and I don't really blame him! Am getting decidedly cabin-feverish, and I'm mugging poor DH at the door in the evenings because I'm so desperate for adult human interaction.

scarlotti i think FM seen will mean 'foetal movements seen',

well done on the recent scans!

Thanks all for the well wishing. I should have asked for more details regarding the "cord" but there was just sooo much to take in, it was all a bit overwhelming. But will definitely ask about it next time.

beepbeep thanks for the comment about your placenta moving - didn't realise it could happen that fast! Hopefully that'll be the case for me.

So cool to re-join the thread again - like having a huge extended family!

Thanks for the advice on the Amby folks...ebay here I come.. I still will have to pay customs tho...pain!

Am so tired all the time..all the time..

sleepless I bought my amby from eBay and managed to get it for half the RRP (sorry *Broodzilla ) so they do hold their value well. If you wanted new, and bought from kiddicare, then it would only end up costing you about £60-70 after selling it on.
When I costed up a moses basket and stand, that came to £50 for the cheapest basket - the stands are £20! Other baskets were up to £60

mumsie congrats on the pink! If you're worried about the cord comments then do speak to your mw - my sonographer didn't mention anything about the cord, I didn't realise they looked at it! I have 'FM seen' written on my notes and will be asking the mw what that means. Far too much jargon and not enough explanation for us mere mortals as far as I'm concerned with the NHS.

I meant i went to bed at the same time as ds last night. I cant think straight.

I am so tired. Somebody just shoot me! PC makes me so tired. I have been so busy at work that I went to back with ds last night! Was told today I have to stay late. I want to cry. I want sleep.

Do we have a lawyer here? I am reading up online on making a claim against our ex landlord as he still hasn’t refunded our deposit! It’s the last thing I need but I can’t see us getting the money any other way.

Somebody ask my opinion again in four months time, would you?

mumsie - Welcome to the Girl club! Congratulations, glad to hear everything is fine. I'm afraid I have no idea what the cord vessel stuff means, but if they say it's nothing to worry about - don't worry.

I've started reading Ina May's Childbirth book. Have to say that it's spot on my own feelings about the birth. I don't want it treated as a medical problem, it is the most natural thing. I am feeling really positive about what is to come - the book is a great tool to empower women and make them believe in the strength and primitive knowledge of their own bodies. Far out, man!

Yes, you guessed it, it is a bit on the hippie side.

Mumsie - congrats on your girl!! I had a low placenta in my last pregnancy but had to have scan 3 weeks later (for something else) and it had already moved sufficiently not to be a concern by then. The same baby also had a head on the smaller size, I think so long as it isn't REALLY small then there isn't anything to worry about - be a bit boring if we were all the same!! Not sure about the umbilical cord thing -I'd check any concerns you have with your midwife.

I know what you mean about the worrying, I was just like that first time round, then with subsequent pregnacies you're so busy running round after the first it just doesn't get as much thought. Take care x

Hello everyone,

It's been a while since I posted. Since finding out I'm pregant I've turned into a worrier (strange because before I was soooo chilled), anyway, until I have my abnomaly scan I just felt like I didn't want to say too much about the baby. Does anyone know what I mean or am I just wierd?

So had the scan today and all seems well! But 3 points to note: 1) Head is on lower side of scale but according to midwife nothing to worry about - infact she said I should be happy as it'll be easier to deliver. 2) I'm still a bit hazy about this next point. The scanographer (have I spelt that right?) was looking as to whether I have a 3 vessel umbilical cord (I think) and she said that either I have a 2 vessel cord or one of the cords is very small. Now I have no idea what that means and she repeated a squillion times that I have nothing to worry about and it isn't a problem at all but in my new worried state it's slightly playing on my mind - but not too much. 3) Oh yes, lastly, the placenta is low at the moment - need to have an extra scan to see if it moves out of the way so that I can deliver the baby normally. Apparently at this stage (I'm 23 weeks) 10% of placenta's are low, and by the time the woman is 40 weeks 90% of those have moved into the right position. So once again this point doesn't really bother me, also the placenta position doesn't actually harm the baby so I'm not going to dwell on that.

And lastly - it's a GIRL!

Thanks for listening everyone. Will be joining the thread with avengeance once again

Lemontop I live on the border of Cystal Palace and Penge. I'm a member of the Beckenham & Borders NCT - would that be any nearer to you? Hope you have a lovely few days with your family.

erika - I had a look at the thread (just too nosy, I'm afraid) and I can fully understand why you feel upset. People will comment on the information provided and it can soon escalate beyond the original poster's intention. I often wondered about this myself: tinternet is such a wonderful thing for so many reasons, but because you are just facing the computer screen you are deprived of such an important part of any human interaction - body language, facial expression etc. It is so hard to take back the things that glare at us from the computer screen.
Please don't let this episode put you off MN. It is such a valuable source, more so, because you can share your experiences, too.
I hope you're starting to feel better. Take care.

Broodzilla - Well isn't that the most helpful comment EVER? Some people... I think I'm not so upset by what they said - though the bits about me being a child kinda pissed me right off - because I'm used to people reacting negatively to us. But I'm angry at how they've been to Jon. I mean he was in the wrong, and I'm still slightly irked that he logged on in the first place, but he apologised. He was really upset by the implication that he was preying / taking advantage of me. * sighs * Oh well. You win some, you loose some, right? Just VERY concerned about him now. This isn't like him.

Eeyore - Forgot to mention - my little passion is socks I love Primark for them because they have so many random patterns. Stripes, spots, stars... Its like sock heaven!

Misssese - Forgot to say, welcome x

Sleepless The swinging cot sounds cool! I suppose if it's metal it might cost an arm and a leg to get shipped over as well... I'm hoping the Amby lives up to its hype. If it doesn't (or once we're done with it) the re-sale value seems to be really good. I know I'm just trying to justify the purchase really.

Erika I posted about my bilingualism dilemma on an expat website as well (although I left out the personal stuff, don't know what it is about you guys that made me disclose that...) and someone replied that I was making way too big a deal of it as I'll realize one day that it really only matters to me, the child won't really give a monkey's either way and I might as well not even bother trying as I'll fail. Whatever.

Eeyore It really is the little things in life that make it worth living. It's good to take time to appreciate the small stuff. I'm all for being cozy too. I've got a pair of maternity trousers from M&S that looked quite dressy in the picture (the model wore them with ballet shoes) but when they arrived I realized that they were more for lounging around the house, really thin, soft jersey. I was secretly pleased, because they're SOOO comfy, but also at a glance look like I'm wearing real clothes. Working from home I find myself pottering around in my PJs all too often and then getting really embarrassed when there's a knock on the door...

Misssese welcome to the thread..Antenatal classes start around 28-30 weeks depending on where you do them..Have you registered with the NCT? I found them really goo.

eeyore2 love your pj story....LOVE IT...its too hot here for PJs..but will keep M&P in mind...

Scarlotti and Broodzilla.. we are also thinking Amby but think it may be a it expensive for our last baby..with DD we used an old (100 years old) swinging metal cot..it was great..but alas we don't want to get it delivered to Geneve from the UK in case it falls apart.

erika sorry to hear about your stress...just ignore harsh comments and take a break and come back with a fresh outlook.

Thanks ladies... I did try and namechange to post it, but for some reason I can't I know that originally people were trying to help, but then it just turned into a bit of a verbal blood bath!! Bit concerned about DP as he's not been responding to my texts since early yesterday evening, and isn't online today... Not like him. I might take the spare key and pop in after my meeting today if I still haven't heard anything. I'm just upset at how vicious it got - he's ill too, and now can't eat because what they'd said to him was at times exactly what his little (anorexic) voice has been saying, and he's been trying to suppress * sighs *

Anyway -

Raggie - I'm soooo jealous Before I got ill, I was in negotiations with them, and it just looked SO amazing. I hope you have a fantastic time - send us all a virtual postcard!

Scarlotti - Poor you with the heartburn I've escaped that delight so far, but am sending you Gavescon-shaped hugs!!

Lemontop - Take it easy in town, I hope there's a breeze at least. Must confess I don't envy you that job today! But I hope you have a nice time

Broodzilla - Sounds very comfortable... I second the suggestion for adult sizes!

Eeyore - Ohhh they're so pretty... Don't tempt me!!! But they are SO very nice. I like being in my PJs too - it is one of the few advantages of being home every day, much as it drives me bonkers, at least I get to stay snuggled up!!

Ninja - I don't think I've yet wished you Congratulations My apologises. CONGRATULATIONS

Thanks ladies, had heartburn with DS and he had a whole head full of black hair. Funnily enough though, it all ended up falling out and he's now quite blonde!!
The milk fetish is helping but my trusty gaviscon will now be by my side...

Ninja my gosh, yes, congratulations on your engagement

Broodzilla hooray for the hammock!! Am pleased to hear it's not huge as have been worried about that. Am hoping to get mine out at the weekend and put it together to see what it's like. Have resisted so far as will be another thing to avoid banging into in the bedroom!!
We still have some decluttering to do in the spare room before there's room for lo in there!

Eeyore lovely pj's, am tempted myself actually. I tend to get changed of an evening out of work stuff and all my pj bottoms sit uncomfortably tight under my bump. Plus I keep thinking that as we get nearer to November it will get chillier so will need some nice bottoms to wear.

Think I might have just convinced myself!!

Hello to everyone. Erika - don't leave us! I like reading some of the boards on Mumsnet but I do feel that outside of the TTC / antenatal type threads the tone is quite different. I am quite a polite person and I would find it difficult to write some of the very strident posts that I have seen on the other boards. I think on this group everyone tries to be supportive and polite and that's why I like it!
So, here is a very uncontroversial but rather silly story about my life for you. I am feeling very happy today. I have a strange pyjama obsession - I am always happiest when in my pj's. I don't like nighties as I like the cosy feeling of pj bottoms. Anyway, as I've got bigger I've grown out of my pjs and so in desperation I bought a really nasty looking pair from Jojo Maman Bebe in the sale. They fitted really badly, were a disgusting colour and I looked totally grim in them. Anyway, I finally decided that I just could not make myself look that ugly on a daily basis, so despite the previous purchase I went out to Mamas and Papas which is near where I work. Now I have the most lovely checked pj bottoms! They are really flattering and I don't look like a puce-coloured pyjama beast in bed anymore. Hurrah!! It is the little things in life which can really cheer you up, I think...

Erika I, too, had a scan on the other thread. I agree with Scarlotti. People will unfortunately only judge a person / situation by what they "see", which is only ever going to be a snapshot of the situation. In a way (under different circumstances) that's sometimes the beauty of the interweb, because you can get advice on just the issue you raise rather than the rest of your life IYSWIM. It does mean that sometimes people are harsh, as they only see the rough and not the smooth. Please don't leave, just take a deep breath and hold your virtual head up high!

Ninja I keep forgetting to say CONGRATULATIONS ON THE ENGAGEMENT!!

Raggie oooh, Cambridge. If you've ventured along the Charles there's a bridge by the Cambridgeside Galleria that I walked along in February when I suddenly had a funny feeling... I found out I was pregnant the next morning. <3 The strange thing is, I used to work a couple of blocks from that very place and that's where I decided I was going to move to England. Spooky.
Enjoy your time there, it's one of my favourite places in the world!

The Amby has arrived!

(I've not entirely forgiven kiddicare as we still don't have anything that looks like proof of purchase, and therefore no warranty...)

I really want to assemble it right this minute, but will have to wait for DH to get home I think. I wish they made them in adult sizes too!

Must say it's a lot narrower than I thought, especially after the reviews I've seen complaining about the large size I mean, the base is obviously quite big to support it, but I'll be slotting the "foot" of it under our bed anyway so the "footprint" of the bed is minimal, and the hammock itself which is obviously the only bit that would get in the way (and how can you think that it's in the way with your PFB in it?) is far smaller than a cot.

Hooray!

Erika don't you dare leave us!!!!! All the advice above is very good and I echo everything everyone has said.

I've been manic with work again School hols and freelancing do not mix well.

raggie lucky you! If you are a meateater go to Redbones. mmmmm

fruitpastels I didn't realise you were so close. I'm in Gipsy Hill. Do you find the hills round here are wearing you out? I'm in an NCT dilemma as there's nothing really available round here. It's either Brixton or Croydon, neither of which are that close.

Got my family travelling down today from Middlesbrough (where I'm from originally). They've booked a hotel thank goodness so I won't be on call all day but they haven't spent a lot of time in London so I'll be playing tour guide for the next few days.

Mornining, Lucky you raggie enjoy

koumak I was thinking of the maxi cosi too,as it fits onto our pram chassis, but having spent £140 more than planned on a pram/pushchair I think I will have to make do with my sisters ventura. (still a good car seat but not able to fit onto out system).

erika I think what scarlotti said makes alot of sense, I too have read through your other thread and although alot of things said could have upset you, I think most of the posters were actually on your side and genuinely worried for you. Try and put it behind you if you can and focus on keeping fit, healthy and happy for your baby. Oh and for what its worth I am pretty certain that you will be a great mum.

scarlotti I don't envy you with the heartburn, I had it with ds1 and its not nice!

I have 10 working weeks left + 2 weeks of summer holidays and 1 week off that I am going to take as the odd day and there. It does seem like a lot! I hope I survive.

Koumak On the maxi cosi site there is a function you can use to check if the isofix is compatible with your car. My car is a couple of years old. My rear car seats have a small isofix label. I'll have to take a look at the new maxi cosi seats. We're not having to buy much for this baby as have loads of stuff from DS in good condition. I'm really wanting to go out and spend!! If I knew the sex of the baby then I would be in trouble as I would't be able to contain myself buying up all of Mothercare!

Scarlotti I think your words to Erica are very sensible and supportive. Sorry you've got bad heartburn. I'm getting it on/off but had it bad near the end of pg with ds, so gaviscon was my companion for many weeks. I remember getting up at all hours of the night feeling terrible. My ds came out with a mass of black thick hair - you might have a hairy baby in there!! To be honest, I wish I could work a bit longer as I find work gives me a focus, but I'm sure I will find things to do, and ds will keep me busy.

Raggie Harvard?! Am very have a wonderful week over there.

Fruit good to see you again, and glad you're well. 12 days?! You lucky girl! I have 52 left according to my spreadsheet [pouting emoticon]

Erika sorry to hear things have been rough. I read through your other post to see what's been going on. I have posted on mn previously (under another name though) when I've been having troubles in my relationship/life - I was in a bad place for a while after my m/c's which will have tainted what I wrote as I was only focussing on the negative side of things. That meant that the responses I got weren't as supportive as I'd have liked, or said what I wanted to hear.
Can I suggest that you namechange for the times that you feel the need to offload? That way you don't carry around the baggage on mn unless you choose to.
Also, remember that people can only respond to what they see written, which is always coloured by how we feel when we write it. It's not personal as they don't really know you. Try not to take it to heart and remember that for everyone person that agrees with you about something, there will be someone that doesn't. On mn you just have access to far more 'someones' than you would in RL.

Hope that hasn't come across as preachy and hope you still pop in and post as I think the benefits of the advice avaiable here far outweighs any negative posts you might get.

Heartburn seems to be my constant companion these days Have been trying to keep it under wraps with milk but think I'm going to have to move on to the gaviscon. Must remember to ask the mw for a prescription at the next appointment otherwise I'll end up with shares in the company the amount I'll get through!!

Fruitpastels I am going for the same but with the easybase (I think) as our car is not new therefore not equipped for the in car clicking fix thing? Has anyone seen the new Maxicosi car seats to be sold from Sept/Oct? Two new ranges. Look quite cool but so much more expensive! I saw them in the new Mothercare catalogue few days ago.

Pavlov are you around? Just wondering if you could email me the document?

Morning! Not been on for a while. Sorry I can't catch up on all your news! lemontop Have a wonderful day I'm sure all the hard work will be worth it! Erica sorry you've been going through a tough time. Hope you're OK and continue to pop in and see us.

I hope those of you with swine flu are getting better. A few friends have caught it and they've been very poorly.

Welcome missese I'm in South East London, near Crystal Palace.

I've got the NHS pregnancy desktop that pops up on my screen each morning. It's weird it works a week ahead. Can't believe I have 14 weeks to go (i'm sure most of us are around that now) Finish up work (self emp) in a few weeks, I've worked out I've got 12 working days left. I would have liked to of held out until mid Sept but it's not worked out that way. I'm taking 39 weeks off.

Scarlotti I guess it makes sense that carseats need to be replaced withing a certain amount of time, but I wouldn't of even thought about it! We are buying the maxi cosi cabrio with the isofix.

I'm sure there is loads I've missed out on. Hope you are all keeping well.

Hello from Harvard!

I am in the US for a week's study at Harvard at the graduate school of education. All very exciting and inspiring...but the jetlag is making BeeBee (and me) go mental. Tired all day anyway before that comes into account.

missesse I(normally) work in Hackney and this is my first too Where are you based?

Lovely to hear everyone's news and a big wave from across the pond X

Thanks Trikken. Just... I know that he screwed up last week, HE knows he screwed up. I think people totally got the wrong impression of him. He had a bad turn, and I guess because we're both ill, a bad turn when it happens is pretty bad. I was really scared for him last week, and he did really upset me. But they're acting like he's a bad person, like he's not trying to do what's best for me and our baby. And he does. Tonight he's so upset by it all he's having trouble eating, and he's been doing so well. I just want to cry.

that is hurtful, but from what ive read from your posts I think you will be a great mum. dont think on the crappy stuff others have said any more.

Thanks, Trikken, tigger. Its a crazy situation - jist would be DP and I both had a rough week last week, I posted on here to get it off my chest, people kinda misinterpretted what I'd said. DP (for some bloody reason) set up a profile and started commenting on the post and now everyone is really really laying into him. I nmean... I know he screwed up, and yes he upset me and worried me last week, but some of the things people have said, to him and to us as parents, are really hurtful. Comments like hoping SS are heavily involved because we're going to be crap parents, someone said "See you on Jeremy Kyle"... Its just reall quite hurtful.

crossed post erika never take anything to heart that you read on the boards, don't let small minded people scare you away. We don't want you to leave

Hello all,

scarlotti I had no idea about car seats, we had planned to replace our 2nd stage car seat (britax 1st class) as its been washed so many times and the inner is starting to look worn, its about 5 1/2 years old so I guess that's reasonable, but it is expensive.

Tamlin hope ds is feeling better

Koumak We got the easy rider from the kiddicare store, we tested every pram/pushchair in store and this seemed the best for us. I have heard the mountain buggy is good too though!
Happy Anniversary for Friday

Welcome misssese great news on your girl

lemontop wow your wedding is so close, how exciting, hope you have a great day.

broodzilla sorry you had a bad time with kiddicare, I hope they surprise you and deliver tomorrow!

Erika dont leave, we need u here!

There seems to be at least three diffeerent opinions on everything... I never imagined it would be so confusing!! Currently trying to weigh up buying (another) buggie, because its a from birth use, just under 2 years old, very light weight, and I've been offered it for £50 from Mum's workmates sister. I might go have a look at it... But then, we already have one, so is there really a point??

I might be leaving here, as theres been problems on one of the other boards, and some of the responces have really got me down Its all a bit crappy this end right now.

I know what you mean! I think you will be ok to keep the one you've got. But we didn’t have a car at the very beginning with ds so only "borrowed" the very first car seat so will be buying one this time. But will use the second stage car seat Priori XP ds had and the one he is currently in Rodi XR for the baby eventually I think.

Broodzilla my thoughts exactly - if they expire in 5 years then how can you sell a seat that's supposed to last an 8 year age gap?!

I don't know what to do now. Without this information we'd have happily used the seat with no worries. Now, if anything were to happen I'd never forgive myself.

Not sure what DH is going to make of this...

Koumak I had no idea. The woman at customer services said it was to do with the plastics too. I'm not sure what to do really as I think DS2 will be ok for a few months then not ok for a few months.

The shopper in me wants to buy a new one but we could do without the expense really.

Oh, and apparently I should give DS2 a new mattress too for the cotbed?

Nope, not cheap. And there was me feeling oh so smug at having kept all the clothes from DS1

Ah well, sounds like we just happened to be really unlucky with kiddicare then. Who knows, they may well redeem themselves tomorrow.
Yes, it's the Amby. Can't wait to see it. DH is still a bit suspicious, but I also like the bit about the baby rocking itself back to sleep (also goes with the Baby Whisperer concept) and the fact that it helps with reflux and colic. Kiddicare also sell the jump-jump accessory, so it could get a lot of use! Hammocks seem to be really popular in Scandinavia, but they tend to be either the "hang over door" kind or the type that hang down from the ceiling, neither of which seem very safe to me (especially as our house is 200+ years old...)

I certainly didn't know car seats had expiry dates! Seems... well... how come the same doesn't apply to car seat-belts and such like? I don't get it. BESIDES - don't they do them from 0-4 and 4-12 years? Surely then the 0-4 would be nearly expired and the 4-12 way too old by the end?

Oh gosh, there's so much to keep track of.

Scarlotti I did know this. We will have 5 years gap so I am looking at buying new MaxiCosi for this one. I think its something to do with the material on straps etc going weak after 5 years? Not cheap is it?

Broodzilla we've gone for the amby nest too! Was the bit about baby rocking themselves back off to sleep that sold it for me You'll easily sell it on eBay again after if you want.
Kiddiecare have always been good on deliveries when I've used them so hang in there!

I've just found out that car seats have an expiry date Did everyone know this? Apparently it's 5 years, something to do with materials perishing and tougher safety tests coming out in later years.
So we bought ours for DS, and it will be around the 4.75 years old mark when DS2 comes along. Don't know whether I should be looking to get another one now as it will technically 'expire' about halfway through DS2's use of it

I have been thinking of the hospital bag but haven’t actually done anything about it. I too have several lists running. Like things we need new, things we could borrow again, things to put on my baby shower list, things to definitely buy but maybe should wait till I definitely know the colour…etc. It’s never ending. Not sure the second babies are cheaper. Especially if it’s the opposite sex!

I just looked it up. I stopped working at 37 weeks when pregnant with ds only though it was Christmas and it looked like good time i.e. end of year. But I could’ve have worked much more after that. By the time he arrived at 42 weeks I was so bored and fed up and it felt like I wasted 5 weeks!

I am so tired now. I am trying to stay awake. Looking at the screen all day is soooo hard!

Broodzilla are you getting the amby nature nest? iv been thinking about getting this!

Broodzilla it could mean a problem with their online paying system rather than the whole company. Bu I do agree the customer service doesn’t sound reassuring. I've ordered from them at least 3 times before and it always arrived within 3 days. So don’t give up hope!

Contractions really? Scary.

Tamlin Aww, your poor DS! Hope he's all better now. It must be so hard to try to keep yourself together for the little one when I'm sure you're panicking inside!

Koumak Glad you had a good time back home!

Ponkey I can't believe you're still not showing - I look like a Moomin! Doesn't help that I'm carrying ridiculously low and the bean is transverse... I look comical really...

Lemontop ooooh, exciting times! Hope you find everything you need and have a nice chilled shopping trip. It's so much easier for men, isn't it? There's only so many different types of suits...

Missese Welcome to the madhouse!

Weston Sounds like you had a nightmare, but still managed to enjoy yourselves! (And if nothing else, I bet being at home never felt so good!)

I've been having hideous contractions all weekend. Really angry ones, that just don't let go for ages. Moving about certainly doesn't help, rather that's what seems to bring them on! (like getting up if I'm sitting down, bending over, making sudden movements yadayada...) After a bit of googleing and MNing, it seems that I have an "irritable uterus" (the uterus seems to have picked up on my general mood...) does my head in. I keep panicking about the bean arriving early, and have actually written a list of things to pack in case. I know it's paranoid, but it seems to have calmed my nerves a little.

Speaking of labour - anyone else find that their hospital schedules hospital tours and labour workshops during working hours? Men don't seem to get time off work for these things so I don't see why they can't schedule them for evenings/weekends!
DH only has 5 days of AL left, and I'd rather he saved that for when the bean comes...

Thanks for the input on bilingualism. I was trying to keep the amount of personal details to a minimum, but I think anyone who knows me would already have recognized me from other things so it's a bit silly really. My mum speaks Finnish and dad speaks Swedish. So I'm a bona fide Moomin (and now have the looks to match!)

Oh, the kiddicare.com rant. Seeing as you asked for it.

TRIED to order a hammock on Friday and pay with debit card. (Yes, I know it's silly, but it's the only card we've got for our joint account.) 1st time it told me that I'd given an address that didn't match what the bank has for me, 2nd time it told me that I'd given the wrong password for Verified by Visa and that the transaction had been referred to the fraud team. (I double checked the address AND the password and they were both right both times.) So, I called the fraud team who asked me all sorts of questions and in the end I got such a dodgy feeling that I called my bank to find out whether this was genuine or not. Seems that it was. Tried again later on with DH's credit card. SAME thing, first about the address and then the password. Got p-sed off and clicked on the "pay by paypal" option, only to be told that the payment had been referred and we'd be contacted by kiddicare. We weren't. Tried calling them until closing time on Friday, no joy. Tried again on Sat, got cut off a couple of times until I finally got through to someone really vague who said "oh well, it has gone through" and gave me a reference number.

I've still had nothing emailed to me about the order and when I tried tracking it via their "track your order" it comes up saying invalid code. So, I've called them again today to ask what's going on and have been told that it's "gone through" and "should be with us tomorrow" but no explanation as to why they've not confirmed the order in any way.

I've never used kiddicare before, and TBH, would've given up with this order if it wasn't for the fact that the hammock I wanted was in the sale and nearly 25% cheaper than the RRP. I'm not holding my breath about it arriving tomorrow...

<Rant over>

Phew.

Will go and eat some grapes to calm down.

Im based hackney i dont have any pregnant friends in london so its nice to chat to you guys!! A few question ( hope you dont mind? its my first pregnancy and feel totally clueless) when do antenatal classes start and does your midwife arrange it or should i be doing it myself??Im 25 weeks. Also is anyone else on constant stretch mark watch iv been applying creams and oils non stop and keep checking my tummy to see if i have any ( non so far ) but im really worried about getting them ?? I no its mad !!

Wow..what great advice guys...I'm thinking of teaching Bea some french on a daily basis..but just worried she will stop talking altogether..

tamlin hope DS gets better soon..
ninja congratulations!!!

As for sex..just can't deal with it..children and pregnancies are the ultimate form of contraception. We are always tired.!What is like with 2??????

am officially huge...even my bras don't fit me from the last time..

As for SPD...am dreading the whole stirrup thing...

Sorry I haven't been around much, its been a bit crazy here recently. Thank you so much, Ninjacat, for your support on the other board, I don't think I could have kept sane without your input!!!

I promise I'll read through and catch up soon!!!

6 month mark today - its gone so bloody quickly, I can't quite believe it...

Tamlin have kept meaning to wish your DS well every time I pop in here but keep forgetting, so apologies and hope he's on the mend.

To everyone with the dilemma of work/no work/when to go back etc. - we're all in the same boat for starters so you're not alone, and the main thing to remember is that you do what you have to to survive as a family - at whatever level that is for YOUR family. Babies do not sit at nursery/childminders and compare each other's home lives. What they know is the only life they know, and therefore it is normal.
I've struggled with the guilt of putting dc's in childcare and various other options over the years and all it does is upset you, NOT the baby. Mine are both happy and content, which is all you can hope for.
I for one, this time around, will be aiming to spend the time I have at home enjoying my new son rather than beating myself up about the fact I won't have as long as I've have liked with him full time.

Just think we should spend more energy enjoying our newborns than worrying about what we're not giving them - and give ourselves a break

Hello everyone!

I returned from friends wedding back home. It was fab. But I am so knackered. I think I had 10 hours of sleep in the last few days. I have been trying to catch up with all the news sorry this will be long.

Bilingual? Yes definitely! I speak to ds in Czech and dh in Slovak. And ds has always had Czech/Slovak aupairs etc to enhance the languages spoken at home and as has always attended playgroups or nursery etc so he obviously knows English BUT may I point out that he only speaks English although he understands all 3 languages perfectly!!! We speak to him in one language and he answers in English. So there is something we are obviously doing wrong here but I am sure that he eventually will be able to build on that. He was always a late talker and his dust mite allergy has been causing him a mild hearing loss in one ear so it is probably related to that as well… The funny thing is when he stays with his grandparents he has to communicate with them so it is rather funny but after weeks of one language he hardly ever picks up any new words but his younger cousins speaks English fluently…. Oh well. He will get it eventually I am sure…

Broodzilla I want to hear your rant on Kiddicare as I never had any problems with them (yet) and have even been recommending them. Ooops. What happened? I had really bad experience with twoleftfeet. So happy they are “dead” now!”

Ninjacat congratulations on you engagement! How exciting.
I am sorry the situation with your ex is on-going but you dp sounds lovely!

Ponkey at you not showing yet and glad you like UCHL! Come to the class on 26 slept I will be dragging dh along.

I would love to take a year out but seriously doubt that will happen. I have really minimal maternity pay from current job so not really different if on ordinary or additional maternity pay or not paid at all the last three months. So hoping to start the leave as late as possible. Preferably the birth! Depends how dh feels about it later on. I stayed at home for just over a year with ds and that was only on MA but was used to less money then and now have ds to consider, his carer and bigger house etc. So we will see how it goes. I never was or will be one of those women who could only spend £50 on grocery shopping a week. Mine is at least a hundred but usually more!

Tamlin your poor poor ds. Your last sentence was so true it made me cry. And as I am at work – was given some funny looks. Can’t ready newspaper on the tube in the morning now as get very emotional…

Lemontop your wedding is so soon now! I hope it all goes well. My advice is try to enjoy it. It will be over so quickly!

It’s our 5 years wedding anniversary on Friday. DH asked what I would like to get/do. I said SLEEP!!!

Tigger32 wow at your easywalker I love it. OMG it looks exactly like my mountain buggy expect it isn’t. I never thought I would say this but it might even be better! I didn’t even know it existed! Where did you find it?

Beepbeep have been spending a lot of time “onthehighstreet” yet to checkout…

Welcome Misssese
There are few of us in london. I am north. Where about are you? Congratulations on a little girl!

I am trying to get to grips that we are going to be parents again. We are having a DAUGHTER. We are not having a baby but a daughter. Do you know what I mean? I think the first time around I always thought about ds as a baby. A little thing that we will love to bits. But he is a boy now. Still young but already independent and opinionated. Can’t begin to imagine what she will be like!

ponkey I wish I knew... I find planning for the birth difficult enough, let alone for 9 - 12 months after that. My ideal plan would be to reduce the hours I work for the Uni and obtain enough clients to work at home (I just qualified as a book-keeper and that's what I do). We're quite far away from family - about an hour's drive - and I cannot expect IL or my Mum to babysit full time. I'm hoping my day job situation will be accommodating enough. Will need to calculate the pay/nursery costs balance to see what to do... So complicated, isn't it? You just can't be a woman and not have to compromise in life...
Thanks for the link.

Crikey, where to start!

Welcome missese and congrats on the girl! I am due on the 9th Nov, me and dh's wedding anniversary! so hoping it doesn't come that day! I don't live in London but just down the road in good ol' Essex

*beep beep* I suffered terribly with constipation when pregnant with ds so I feel your pain! Not suffering this time round although recently I have been getting piles very uncomfortable and sure only gonna get worse, sob!

lemontop good luck with the wedding on Saturday, how exciting! Hope you get all the things you need in Bluewater (i love it there!)

tamlin Hope your little boy is feeling much better today, you must have been so worried about him, poor little mite. I's so horrible when they are ill, makes you feel really helpless.

I am getting better everyday after my bout of the pig flu, just got a sore throat but at least my cough has gone. Now if I can just get ds to wake up later than 5.30am I might feel more human!

Ah also, never worked with these people as I'm not a mum yet but maybe this might be helpful to some of us: http://www.workingmums.co.uk/
I've heard good things about them.

thanks everyone. It is not easy here I think. I regret a bit not having my baby in my home country, Belgium, where we get 3 months full pay then a few weeks at 60%, plus a gift from the government of 2000 euros at the birth and 'family allocations' each month until the kid is 18 of 100 euro to help. And people are still complaining ;)

I'm taking 6 months leave here and my company doesn't help at all so just get 6 weeks at 90% and then SMP. Will be just enough to pay the rent. Plus I won't be able to go back to work as working until 7 or 8 everyday so does my husband. Aaaaaargh I knew I'd be worried but now I'm a bit scared. What is eveyone's plan after mt?

@missese I'm in (North) London and due the 5th November. I'm expecting a little boy.

Hi everyone,
Can I add myself to the list? Hope everyone had a nice weekend. I found out at the end of last week that I will get additional pay on top of statutory maternity for six months and am so so happy. I have no idea how long to take off on leave though - it's my first baby and I just don't know how I'm going to feel and what I'm going to do about childcare. So have signed up for the full 52 weeks and will work out when to go back later on in the year.

BOY
Ninjacat
ErikaMaye
WizzyWoo
Turtle
Broodzilla
Tamlin
Kaster37
Pavlovthecat
S car lotti
Pedalmonster

GIRL
Netha (90%)
DeathByDora
Weston
Koumak (with healthy scepticism)
EasyEggs
Roomac
Wook
Trikken
ursigurke
Tabbykat (probably)
Sleeplessinthecity
Southernbelle77 (75%)
Chocotastic
Skorpion
Raggie

SURPRISE!
BeckyBendyLegs
BeepBeep
Tigger32
Fruitpastels
Helips
Fairybex
lemontop
PootleTheFlump
Funtimewincies
Eeyore2

Congrats! Girls seem to rule then.

Im having a girl!

I think this is the latest count on pink versus blue. I'm due on the 29th so am a bit behind. Is this your first? You can add yourself to the list if you like.

BOY
Ninjacat
ErikaMaye
WizzyWoo
Turtle
Broodzilla
Tamlin
Kaster37
Pavlovthecat
S car lotti
Pedalmonster

GIRL
Netha (90%)
DeathByDora
Weston
Koumak (with healthy scepticism)
EasyEggs
Roomac
Wook
Trikken
ursigurke
Tabbykat (probably)
Sleeplessinthecity
Southernbelle77 (75%)
Chocotastic
Skorpion
Raggie

SURPRISE!
BeckyBendyLegs
BeepBeep
Tigger32
Fruitpastels
Helips
Fairybex
lemontop
PootleTheFlump
Funtimewincies

I only get 6 weeks at 90% then get statutory, its terrible really!! I have alot of holiday to take to which im putting on to the start of maternity leave so finish work end of aug but maternity leave doesnt start til end of sept!!
Im based east london and due 7th nov when is everyone due date does anyone know what they are having?

beepbeep I'd recommend dried fruit, prunes are my favourite, can't understand why people hate them. Also, linseed. It is my nan's old remedy. Pour a tiny bit of boiling water over some seed and leave to soak, drink or eat with a spoon, it will look revolting, all gloopy and frogspawn-like, but it does work. Or for less revolting look, soak in some orange juice.

lemontop - yes, that's the blessing of working for the University. The pay may not be the most competitive in the market but they do look after us. I'm very grateful.
Ha, funnily enough we have the same plan - lottery - when it comes to finances.

welcome missese

beepbeep suffering badly from constipation this end so you're not alone I try not to take medicines to deal with it unless I have to. Diet can work wonders - try eating half a bag of grapes a day - that worked wonders for me early on in the pg. Also, I find if I eat muesli or porridge for breakfast that keeps me fairly regular - must be the oats so maybe flapjacks would work just as well?!
It's uncomfortable and quite painful so do speak to your mw. Make sure you're drinking plenty too as baby will dehydrate you and that can be a cause.

I can only afford to take 6-7 months off but would love to take more. I can only get statutory SMP from the govt so the rest has to be from savings. My last day will probably be October 9th (36 weeks) - as much as I'd love to have more time before it will just take away from time with the baby so it's a no brainer really. Past experience tells me I won't make another week at work at that point!

Helped out with the fundraising breakfast cafe for the church on Sat morning, so was on my feet cooking and serving for about 4 hours. I have suffered since!! Shows how unfit I am! DH has now banned me from doing the one at the end of Sept!

Hi misssese I'm in Gipsy Hill, south east London.

skorpion 6 months on full pay is amazing! I think I get 8 weeks at 90%, then 12 weeks at half pay & stat, then 12 more weeks of stat, although I'm sure it's 9 months with some income so I really must check! I'm finishing on Sep 23rd but am on 6 week hols at the mo (teacher) so only go back for about 5 weeks as i have to take my hols before my mat leave starts. I'm going back when the baby is about 9 months, hopefully part time. Still haven't worked out how we'll afford that but I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a lottery win!

Off to Bluewater shopping in Kent today as DP still hasn't got his wedding suit and I haven't got any shoes. Fingers crossed it'll all be sorted today.

Welcome misssese!

I'm getting 6 months off on full pay, then 3 at SMP. I'm also contemplating taking another 3 free of pay, but it all depends on the state of our finances. Not very encouraging at the moment... I hoped I would be able to build a portfolio of clients to keep me going, but time is running extremely fast from me.

im only planning on taking 26 weeks mat leave with a couple of weeks hol added on, so 30th of Aug should be my last working day. Id rather take additional mat leave but cant afford to.

Welcome missese, there are a couple of us in London, me for example.
Ponkey, don't know yet, but I'll start rather early, end of August, well, I'll take one or two weeks of holiday first. I will probably get bored after the holiday but I would probably not be very useful anymore and as we will have a lot less business from september on, I don't want to "steal" hours from my younger colleagues. Going back is an interesting question as I wouldn't want to go back fulltime but then it will probably be difficult to earn enough for a good child care. So, I have to see with my boss, if I can only work a couple of hours, mainly admin which I could do with the baby in tow.
beepbeep, good luck with the list adaption

Ponkey - with DD I took 6m (that ws what we got paid for (inc stat mat)at the time, with DS it had increased to 9m, I think this time round I'll take 8-9m - depends on how far the savings stretch - have to take into account going back to work for a month before getting paid.

Weston - sorry to hear your holiday was a bit of a wash out.

Sorry if TMI so early in morning but is anyone else suffering badly with constipation? (didn't have it this bad with other 2) have read that milk of magnesia can be taken in pregnancy -has anyone used it or anything else to good effect?!

Been making a list of things i 'would like' and those i 'need' for baby! the need list really isn't very long as already have clothes, fully equipped nursery, double buggy, sling etc but am trying to slyly move things from the 'would like' to 'need' without DH noticing!

Hoping to get to see Harry Potter this week sometime, heard good things!

Hiya,

I was wondering how long everyone is taking for maternity leave?

back from our big summer hols in devon..what a fawltey tour disaster...terrential rain, in crappy caravan which felt like it was on a train line and DD very poorly first 3 nights, i think it was croup but could have been swine flu who needs everything from toothache to toeached now seems to be called swine flu! anyway we did have a good time but glad to be home..

however DD appears to have developed tantrum fever and its non stop screaming and clenched fists...joy..

still get a surprise when i get my babycentre emails telling me how far gone i am at how fast time in flying thought i did weight myself this morning and appear to have doubled in weight in last week..maybe undetected triplets..

have another week off work and two chid free bliss days for cinema and shopping, can't wait

dont have time to catch up on last weeks post but hope everyone is going well and bumps are progressing nicely

loving BB at the mo

way past my bed time..adios

Welcome misssese

Harry Potter is brilliant, cant wait for deathly hallows to come out!

I worked last night, woke up at half six this morning, with achey arms and legs and feeling dizzy, hoping its more pregnancy and work-related rather than SF tho. am bit worried tho as i work in a petrol station and have people right up close to me but i did use the hand-gel frequently (as tesco have decided to issue all depts. free alcohol hand gels to prevent illness spreading and losing all their staff)
taking mat leave at 32 weeks which is quite early i kno tho some of it includes holiday, but i really think this six weeks cant come quick enough.

thats my whinge over!

hoping everyone is well.

Tamlin your poor little boy. I find illness the hardest thing about being a parent! The worry never stops.

DH and I saw Harry Potter last night (ie the film, not the boy walking around Shrewsbury!). The DSs had a night out at the grandparents. Before the film we ate at one of those Chinese buffet places and I suffered all night with the horribliest indigestion and heart burn ever Serves me right for mixing crispy pancakes with cho main, egg fried rice, satay sauce, beef black bean sauce, noodles, and heaven knows what else.

Hello missese! There are a lot of people here from London (not me though).

ninja yeah! That's lovely

Hi hope you dont mind me joining your thread? Im due november 7th just found this chat! Anyway thought id say hi do any of you live in london?

ninja Congratulations!!!

Tamlin - your poor little man, hope he (and you!) are feeling better soon.

So much talk of wedding, Congratulations Ninjacat! We have one of my oldest (i.e. known each each other long while - not that she's old!) friend's wedding in 2 weeks, cannot wait (partic for 2 nights child free!!). Just been on notonthehighstreet and bought few more bits for he that i didn't need -love that website!

lemontop glad to 'see' you in a better mood. How exciting, a week to go! I'm sure it will all go fantastically well, have a brilliant day.

tamlin what a scary story. I hope your LO is getting better by the hour. I imagine you're absolutely right, the feeling of helplessness must be awful. Big hug to the boy, get better soon.

ninja I agree with broodzilla on this one - kids see and understand much more than given credit for. You and your DP seem to be doing a great job of being parents and I'm sure this is not going unappreciated. Even though your DS is only a child, whatever is happening to him now will shape his future relationship with his father. It's such a shame and so stupid that the grown-up is so blind and doesn't recognise the harm he's doing. To himself as well. What if this new relationship doesn't work out? He may be left on his own in old age and it will be way too late to do anything about it. I'm sorry to rant on this, but I speak from personal experience and get angry when I see a parent doing this. It is so easy to ruin what should be a most natural of relationships. And it is never ruined by the child.

Thank you, ladies, for your thoughts on languages. I don't think it was ever a question for me whether to do it or not. I absolutely love the fact that my kid will know all the things I learned as a child, so much great literature for example. And I would never deprive her of the contact with my side of family, that is just not possible, as I am close with them anyway. My only bit of confusion comes from the fact that the only language I can communicate in with DH is English. It is the language I expressed love in for the first time, having been here for so long I think in English, dream in English, my whole adult life has been in English. I guess what I'm trying to say I feel like English is actually my first language now. I think you're right, learning two languages from the moment go can only be an advantage.

Sorry to go on. Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Tamlin what a nightmare. Trust your instincts, it sounds to me like you you do know what your doing even if it doesn't feel like it. Ds is obviously blessed with very caring and loving parents. Hope he bounces back soon.

Lemontop and Tigger thank you

Lemontop I'm feeling quite excited thinking about weddings. DP proposed on a beach back at home in Pembrokeshire but it's our secret at the moment. Will wait until after the baby is born to make an announcement. DP has always been set against marriage so I think there will be a few shocked family and friends

ninja What a nightmare your ex is being and how awful that your poor DSs feelings are not being taken into account. I really hope you an find a solution that doesn't involve too much stress.

tamlin hope your DS is ok. I imagine looking after sick children is one of the most stressful things about being a parent.

I was out with my best friend and godson yesterday. He's 11 and always bumping into things and falling over. Yesterday he managed to trip up and take the skin off all of one of his armpits and was really crying and in shock. She said there's nothing in the parenting books that tells you about how to deal with things like that! I'm gonna be a nervous wreck.

I had a makeover done yesterday at a Dior counter and ended up buying loads of expensive make up for wedding. Am booked to have highlights this afternoon. Honestly, I know now why I don't usually bother with this sort of stuff! Got my family arriving on Tues and wedding on Sat. Scary stuff

Morning all!

Wow so much to catch up again!

We went pram shopping yesterday and got exactly what we decided we weren't going to get I love it though, even though we spent way more than planned .
We got an easywalker (3 wheeler) with a carrycot in bright red, it is so sturdy yet light and has a huge pushchair for when lo is bigger, the carrycot is a good size too so will last right through the winter. We got a buggy board for ds2 too! Oh I sound like a sales rep
Also managed to get crib mattress, new v cushion (ds1 likes to sleep with the other) and a free play gym thingy!

Anyway enough about me, nija what a nightmare your your exp sounds, you poor thing.
ponkey glad you like your new hospital, its always a worry when you switch midway.

I'm loving the idea of teaching lo a second language, I recently went back to college to learn french and ds1 loved trying to pick some of it up.

Right going to wake ds2 up, I think 9.40am is late enough to sleep in !
Have a good day.

DS woke up from his afternoon nap yesterday with a fever of 101 and struggling to breathe. He was trying to cry, but struggling to get air into his lungs, and then he started vomiting. We rang the NHS helpline, and apparently triggered some emergency response with 'child under five with temperature and struggling to breathe' so I got my first trip in an ambulance courtesy of Mr Pants today. Familial history of asthma, you suck.

They think he's got a virus, but probably not swine flu - they gave him steroids, painkillers and an inhaler. They kept us in for three hours (during which time the fever went down, his breathing eased, and he got more and more chipper - oh my God, hell is being stuck with a cranky toddler in a hospital cubicle who keeps trying to leg it away from you across the A and E towards the nice vomiting drunk in the opposite cubicle). We have a Tamiflu prescription as well, although I'm honestly undecided about whether to give it to him - if they think it's just an ordinary virus with asthma complicating things, then I'm reluctant to unleash Tamiflu on the kid.

Anyway, we were up every four hours last night giving him the inhaler - he decided at about 2 am that the inhaler was NOT, in fact, a fun new game, and started trying to fight us off while wheezing and gasping - and he sounds better this morning. I am knackered though.

Worse thing about being a parent - when your kid is sick or in pain, and clinging to you with this absolute trust that you can make it better somehow, and you're thinking 'Kid, I have NO idea what I'm doing here.'

Ponkey - I seem to have plenty of baby belly to go round - you can have some of mine!! SIL is at same stage and she is hardly showing, so not just you!

Hello!

@Koumak: I went to UCLH on Friday and I'm SO pleased to have changed! There is such a big difference between Whittington and UCLH. And being in a modern environment is so reassuring.

Re the language conversation, it is so important to speak more than one. And the sooner your learn the easier it is to learn a new language later. Between the 2 of us we speak 5 languages perfectly and have been discussing which ones to use with the baby,probably French and English and will try to find a Dutch speaking nanny.

I'm not really showing yet (while the baby is apparently alreay 25cm)Is anyone else in the same situation? I want a big belly!

Oh and ursigurke and Broodzilla thank you for your kind words. Going to try and put it to the back of my mind until DP returns Monday.

Broodzilla I'm also really intrigued about what your languages are.

Ninjacat, this all sounds terrible, glad to hear that you have such a supportive partner. I feel really sorry for your son. He is already a teenager, isn't he? I really hope you can sort that out soon.
Broodzilla, I so you for being perfectly bilingual but I don't wan't to make your decision about your choice more difficult but I would have said you should choose the language you feel closer and more comfortable in. If you kept your diaries in the minority language you should probably choose this language. Talking to your child will be a heart thing not a brain thing. I can see your point about which language would be more "useful" for your child but I think being perfectly bilingual would already be enough. He/She could still learn any other language later. (May I ask which languages you are talking about? Didn't you say you were Scandinavian?)
But I agree with you that you have to choose ONE, otherwise the child would probably really get confused.
And just to let your husband (and especially your MIL know), being bilingual will be a huge benefit for the child. But if you chose to speak English (even only sometimes) you would definitely harm your childs linguistic development!

Ds has had counseling in the past because he witnessed quite a bit of violence and this made a huge difference. I've offered to get him some more but he doesn't want it. He seems fine, just resigned to the fact his Dad is a bit of of pillock.
Perhaps I should take his lead and just not let it wind me up.

He admitted DV in court but because it was towards me not ds it doesn't really affect contact. The cafcas woman did say that ds would probably decide to see less of his Dad as he got older and that once he was 12 he could have a say in access so I think that's where were at now.

I just find his blindness to his sons needs very frustrating.

Sorry will stop ranting now or I might never stop. On the plus side dp is fantastic with ds and treats him as his own. When we first got together he saw ds and I were struggling so pulled together a male group of family and friends so that ds had positive male role models and is ds's confident when it comes to all thing Boy that I (apparently) could never understand.

"For ds's sake I've really tried to stay civil with him and since dp has been around he's had to back off physically but I wonder if he's not trying to get to me by punishing his son."

Believe me, your DS will know this. Both that you've tried, and the real reason behind his dad behaving the way he does. Kids are far more perceptive than (most) adults give them credit for! Again, nothing of your ex's behaviour is likely to endear him to your DS, but I am sure that your DS feels loved and supported by you (and your DP by the sounds of it) and really, that's all that matters. The rest of it are his dad's issues.

Have you thought about counseling for your DS? It might help him if he could talk it all through with someone neutral? Also, just a thought, is any of what's happened in the past documented anywhere? If so, surely that would work against your ex having DS for visits (especially for such a long time?)

I can only imagine how stressful this is for your right now, but just keep telling yourself that you're in the right. You are.

Thanks Broodzilla. One day I might learn that I'm just not dealing with a rational human being.
He wants everything to be perfect with his new life and DS having any problem with that just doesn't go along with his narrative.
The court order is old so is now a bit like tryong to put a found peg in a square hole but to change it means engaging ds in court process. It looks like this might have to be what happens. I just thought it's healthier for a child if the adults can be reasonable and make the decisions.
In the past this man has attacked me, threatened me with knives, left suicide messages.... I'll stop now it's all too much to revisit and here's probably not the right place.
For ds's sake I've really tried to stay civil with him and since dp has been around he's had to back off physically but I wonder if he's not trying to get to me by punishing his son.
It doesn't help that my hormones are every where and the smallest thing sets me off.

Ninja cross posted...
You may remember that this is another issue that I end up ranting and raving about

Excuse my language, but "DS has to obey the contact order" WTF????? Since when is "has to obey" the grounds for a healthy, loving relationship? It's beyond me that your ex can't see that if anything he should be concerned about rebuilding the relationship, not making demands on your DS.

Does your DS legally not have a say in any of this? (In most countries, DC's views are taken into account when orders are granted.) Although I realize that your DS may not feel comfortable in having to have a say IYSWIM, I still think it's something that your ex could do with considering.

I don't see how your DS can be made to spend 2 weeks (or any time at all) with his dad against his will, or even reluctantly. That surely would do more damage than good?

Why is it that Fathers for Justice get so much press but stuff like this is just considered normal? Wish there was something I could do!

Hola! (or Oh-La as someone used to say...suits my mood better today...) Just thought I'd come in for a quick rant about kiddicare.com but I'll spare you from it as I can't NOT comment on the bilingualism. Please feel free to skip the whole post, it'll be a looooong one.

I was raised bilingual. My dad only ever spoke his 1st language to me and my mum only ever spoke her 1st language to me (even though both of them were fluent in the other too). From what I've been told, starting from the first words, I learned both languages at a similar speed. I had a couple of made-up words (half-and-half) but what kid doesn't? Apparently I also refused to speak the "wrong" language to the "wrong" parent, and ended up stubbornly translating if anyone happened to speak to either of my parents in the "wrong" language too. (We lived in a 50-50 bilingual town.)

I went through most of school in my mum's language, but did do an "exchange" while in High School so that I got two terms in dad's language too. Went to Uni in England, so I suppose that doesn't count.

I consider it the greatest gift my parents have given me, and I am forever grateful that they both took the time for it... dad especially, as they divorced when I was 6 and he really had to go the extra mile (more like 100...) to make sure I didn't lose touch not just with him, but also the language and culture. It was hard for a while, as mum moved me to a monolingual place where the minority language was frowned upon. I've seen videos from that time, and I did develop an accent for a while. Fast forward to me being a teenager (read: old enough to escape the hell hole my mum had moved me to) and I spent every weekend and all my holidays back in my home town, which is where I also ended up doing the "exchange". Much thanks to that, my circle of friends to this day are speakers of the minority language. There's only one person I keep in touch with who's from the place mum moved me to.

I can't stress how important this all ended up being for me, on so many levels. Not only did I learn another language and gain another culture... it ended up giving me a whole other life, too. Without going into too much detail - I don't know where I'd be without it. Have you ever hear the saying "a new language opens a door to a new soul"? I think for me, the other language ended up also being a way out of a very miserable situation. I honestly don't know where I'd be without it.

I tell anyone and everyone who has the opportunity to bring their child up to be bilingual to do it. (Although I've never really gone into the personal details before...) It doesn't cost anything, it's not really that hard, and you're most certainly not teaching your child, you're interacting in your own language, which the child will pick up without any effort.

It leaves me quite torn, as I'm now married to someone who speaks English. It's taken quite a few heated arguments to get him to see the benefit of me speaking a different language to the bean (and don't even get me started on MIL's opinions on the subject!) but DH is now fully on board. (Although, I must say, I still don't think he quite gets that I plan on only speaking my language to the bean, *at all times*.)

The problem? "My" language. Because I'm bilingual, I have two. Do I pick the majority language or the minority language? Leaving all emotions aside, it would certainly make sense to pick the majority one, but I also think that the minority needs every boost it can get. Add to that, that the majority one is very hard to learn so it would make sense that the bean would get that one from me. But emotionally? The minority language is what I consider my own language. I've kept all my diaries in that language, and have a blog in that language. All my friends back home speak that language, as does the side of the family that I'm closer to. Not to mention the fact that in a way, I feel I'm indebted to that language for "saving" me.

I've spent months thinking about this, and I think the right thing to do is to do the sensible thing. For once in my life, I need to let the head rule the heart. I'll speak the majority language to the bean, and hopefully, in that way, I'll also manage to reclaim it for me, somehow.

Ummm, I guess what I'm trying to say is:

Please give your child(ren) the gift of another language if you can. It'll make their life richer and easier. There are no disadvantages (apart from the possibility of them starting to speak a bit later). They will not grow up confused, nor will they end up speaking both badly. It'll also allow them to access your culture from the inside - something they'll never be able to do if they don't speak the language fluently.

Please forgive me for going on... it's such an emotional subject right now. (Come to think of it... so is anything. I cry at adverts.)

As you were.

The contact order by the way would mean DS going to stay for 2wks over the summer.
DS has asked to go up for a weekend first then to see how he feels after that.
I don't think that's unreasonable.

Had yet another solicitors letter today from ds's dad.
Why do some men think they have all rights and no responsiblities? Arghhhhh
Apparently DS's bullying problem is an "out right lie". That DS has to obey the contact order and I'm only to contact him via the solicitor from now on.
Why can he not just accept his son is having some difficulties settling into his dads new life and put his son's needs before his supposed rights.

Sorry just needed some where to rant.

Going to take DS to see ice age 3D later. Hopefully I will have calmed down by then.

Bilingual children have such a huge advantage. They may learn to speak a little later than average, but I think that's more than compensated for by the advantages it confers later on. In the families I know, they have one parent speaking in their native language consistently to the child, while the other parent speaks English, and the children don't seem confused at all by this. (The Spanish/English one year old I know can alternate between 'caca' and 'poo' quite easily! )

DS has actually lost his voice. He can only speak in a tiny whisper, which is quite different from his usual cheery bellow - he's croaking furiously 'No! Mine! Don' wan' do it!' but we can hardly hear him. It's rather as if someone has just turned the volume knob down on our tot - I hate to say it, but the peace and quiet is rather nice.

Would love for our 3 to grow up knowing a different laguage, but seen as DH nor I speak a 2nd langage fluently it's not going to happen. Maybe fact that i'm from Yorkshire and DH is from Oxfordshire means they have enough to contend with language wise!!

Waiting for my mother to arrive, she's staying with friends 3/4 hour away and going to visit for afternoon, called at 10 this morning to say they would be here between 12 and half past then called at 12.25 to say they'd just set off - SO annoyed. An extra hour is a lifetime to a 2 year old

Hear hear on children having the chance to speak two languages. As a primary school teacher, I know it supports their understanding of language generally, having a broader base to draw experience from. And once they've learned two it's even easier to learn more. My brother in law's girlfriend was brought up bilingual English and French and lived in a German area when little. She is fluent in all three...and Spanish! She also finds it very easy to pick up other languages from her wide travels - encourages children to feel like a 'global citizen' too I expect

Skorpion I agree with everyone else. I have an Austrian friend who always speaks to her three in German and they all chatter away in both languages. I also have a Danish friend who does the same. I think they are very lucky to be able to grow up bilingually. It doesn't seem to have affected their language skills.

DH grew up in Wales but doens't really remember much Welsh now although when we go to Wales I get him to pronouce all the phrases we see and it sounds so lovely to me. I think it is a shame to lose it. I'm quite envious of anyone who has a bilingual background. I asked DH if we could move to Japan so the DSs could grow up bilingual but he just looked at me as if I were living on planet dream land.

Ninja exactly the same here! I went to a Welsh high school but nobody at home spoke Welsh. I got to the point at the end of school of thinking and dreaming in either language, but I've been away from Wales for so long now I'm very rusty. Shame.
Now my Mum has moved back to Wales she's learning!

I imagine I'll just be teaching the kids the odd words.

Evening all

Hope you're all celebrating the week coming to a close with a glass of schloer or suchlike! I've been naughty and had a Chinese takeout tonight... I've been healthy all week though so I think I deserve it.

Usigurke thanks for helping me gain some perspective on the bump touching. I'll try and contain my angry hormones by thinking of what you said...

Thanks for the bf'g advice Helips, Tamlin and Skorpion. I'm still in two minds about whether to have cs or not but I'll hopefully have more of an idea after I see the consultant next month.

Erica I'm a huge fan of the Twilight series but I'm saving myself until the last book comes out in paperback. Maybe I should buy it for when I'm bf'g (if DD gives me 5 minutes peace)... You're so organised with baby stuff - I'm impressed! I thought I was doing well getting a pram - think I need to buy a few more things yet!

Broodzilla I felt a definite foot the other night when there was quite a lot of kicking and movements. I tried to grab it and it went scuttling away! Baby's been really busy tonight, making my stomach bulge and dip - slightly uncomfortable but fascinating to watch.

Tamlin I don't blame you for being angry, I would be too in your situation. As for the SPD, DD was delivered by forceps with my legs akimbo in stirrups and as I've been told I'll need to be induced again this time round, I've been dreading that kind of intervention again. Must speak to my consultant about it when I see her next (thank goodness I persuaded physio to actually write in my notes about SPD, as she initially said she didn't need to write anything ) Sending healing thoughts to your DS...

Skorpion I read somewhere this week that bilingual children are generally bright and quick to pick things up in school so if I were you I'd teach baby both.

Scarlotti We didn't have sex at all after my first bleed at 14 weeks and only started to tentatively when the genetic testing was over a few weeks ago. Unfortunately my pelvis became so painful that I'm finding it very difficult now. Also, DH's libido has completely disappeared since my boobs started leaking randomly... Husbands aren't very good at putting things tactfully but I'm glad you're feeling better about things.

DH has just brought a cream cake up for me so I'm going to leave to indulge my sweet tooth, yum! Hope you all have good weekends if I don't get chance to check back in xx

I went to a Welsh speaking school and spoke English at home. I don't regret it at all but my Welsh is pretty rusty these days because I just don't have any use for it in England.
A good friend of mine is German. She has always spoken German to her ds whilst his Dad speaks English. He slips between the two very easily and had no problems in speaking English when he started school.
I also have a friend who's mother is Swiss and she is very angry that her mother only spoke to them in English, it seperates her from half her family in Switzerland.

Scarlotti glad you got things sorted.

Nos Da

usigurke yeah, he's not a bad old stick really

Agree with usigurke skorpion, you should speak Polish and your DH English. Baby might take a little longer to speak, and will probably mix up words but you'll open up the linguistic part of the brain much earlier and baby will pick up languages so much easier in later years.

I wanted to speak to DD in Welsh when she was little but I was on my own, so worried she wouldn't learn English. Wish I had now.

Hello hello, been up visiting family in Bonnie Scotland for a few days so just catching up on all your news. Was great, saw my friend with 2 little ones and we gossipped for ages PLUS I got a load of baby stuff from her - snuggly fleece sling, bouncer, V-pillow, Avent breast pump and a few other things

BTW eeyore I am feeling it too - my god if 2nd pregnancies mean bigger I dread to think how heeeuge I will be. Am massive already I am feeling lots of kicking and wriggling like mad in the evenings and mornings...and through the day actually. All so exciting.

And finally...Woo! With all the Oxford fans and visitors maybe that is the place for a Due November 09 meet up one of these days?! Thanks for the tip on the vintage shop BBL. I am looking forward to exploring the area in the few weeks we'll have there before BeeBee comes along. DH grew up in Headington and we have friends in Wolvercote and Osney Island but don't know East Oxford at all... yet!

scarlotti, thanks for your advice and glad that you have been talking to your husband. So, it has just been a misunderstanding, he seems to be a very nice guy.

skorpion, I'm in a different situation, we are both Austrian (although two very opposite dialects, so kind of bilingual) but I'm actually a qualified secondary teacher for French and therefore have a very strong opinion about bilingualism. You absolutely have to speak your own language to your child! Not only will it be a big advantage for her to be fluent in two languages but also, even if you lived here for 14 years (and I suppose you only started to learn English as a teenager/adult), you are probably making little mistakes or just using unusual expressions, you might also have an accent, so your child would start from a wrongish base. Back in Vienna, I had lots of students from foreign parents who tried to speak German to their kid to help them to learn it but actually they ended up with a wrong first language, a wrong German and were unable to understand the simplest grammar system in English or French. Children with parents with two different languages learn the differences very quickly. They might mix up the vocabulary at the beginning or even take slightly longer to start using words but then, they learn both languages in a normal speed. (and even if a child only has to learn one language, he/she will make mistakes while trying to "understand" a certain rule) And once they have understood two language systems, they will even have less problems to learn a third or forth language in school. I suppose in your case, she would first speak a bit more Polish (if you are the one spending more time with her), but then, with friends, nursery and school, English will become her main language and it will be up to you to cultivate the polish knowledge as well (reading and writing might become an interesting question). Sorry if I get so excited about it but I have seen so many children with language problems and was always jealous of those bilingual kids who were fluent in two without any effort. Learning languages is so easy for kids and sooo difficult for adults.

scarlotti - good to hear you're in a better mood.

ursigurke - we can trawl shops and compare notes if you like. I just don't really want to start yet... [hides head in sand]

sleepless, ursi or anybody else in similar situation? Can I ask you about language? I am Polish but have lived here for 14 years. DH only speaks English. I am thinking of speaking to my kid in Polish, to DH in English. But am a bit concerned of turning her brain to mush. Goodness, I'm turning my own little brain to mush with this - hope you can follow. Basically, I'm interested to hear opinions about bringing up children in a bilingual environment. Thanks.

Go around to various shops to try out prams and get an idea of what you want, then actually buy it online - kiddiecare is really good price wise and service wise.

Ikea do baby stuff, but the things I've seen are quite basic. Personally I'd want a sturdier cot - something that will take a bit of punishment from an awake baby/toddler who wants to attract Mum/Dad's attention!

Spoke to DH - apparently he was actually trying to take the pressure off by asking, in that I'd know then that there would be no advances for the next few months
I suggested better wording next time. He also said maybe him being half asleep and not really thinking through what he was saying probably wasn't the best idea either.
You don't think?!!

Men!

Ok, I now have a rather stupid question but as we are living in a (ugly) furnished flat since we moved to England, I have no idea where to buy all this baby furniture. Well, I know there is IKEA (in Austria I got all my furniture from there, but should I trust them cot-wise (our bed broke several times until we fixed it with glue)? And what about the pram? I only know mothercare.

scarlotti, sorry to hear that you have such negative feelings again. Even if in theory I feel sorry for men, I do hate it when it actually happens that he wants to and I don't. But do you know when I would like to share the joy of pregnacies most? When I wake up in the middle of the night, can't go back to sleep, feel restless, want to move, make noise, watch TV or just do something. And what is he doing??? SLEEPING!!! In these moments, I kind of dislike him for that. So far I could control myself and did not disturb his sleep but I can not garantee for the next three months

Tamlin you poor love - anything else about to land on your plate?
Hope DS is feeling better soon and if it is the dreaded SF that he makes it through without too much discomfort.
Am so on your behalf re your appointment, I know you were hoping that this would help you put the experience to rest and move forward. Hope you still find a way to do that and look forward to this lo arriving.

usi maybe it is hard for the men, but I can't muster much sympathy really. Maybe he could spend a few days in my shoes, carrying around an extra 9kg, getting kicked in the cervix/bladder/insert other organs here at random times, spending what feels like an age on the loo and swelling up all over the place .... maybe there might be a little more empathy then.
I think Broodzilla's got the right idea - just tell me a white lie and pretend it's ok!

As you can see, the calm that had descended has gone again.

Tamlin - when I went to see consultant for Strep B he booked me in for a glucose test cause wasn't sure why I was there! Apparently fact that I carried Strep B wasn't even in my notes. What worried me even more was that he was willing to take my say so that i did have it and suggest induction and tell me I would need antibiotics -thought he might have checked! Bizarre aren't they?! Oh and to top it off DH asked him about pregnancy and swine flu and he said that he wasn't aware that pregnant women wee at any different risk to anyone else and wasn't aware they would be treated with any different - fills you with confidence doesn't it?!

Tamlin, sorry haven't seen the last page , hope you DS is soon better.
I can understand your feelings. Why do they even bother keeping notes if then they are so completly wrong?

scarlotti, I guess exploring other options would be a good idea. I'm sure your husband doesn't want you to do anything that makes you feel bad but I guess, it's a hard time for men when they don't get anything.
At the beginning of my pregnancy I couldn't imagine any sexual activity at all (luckily it got much better, but probably still not "enough"). My husband complained that I had been abusing him. After the wedding I wanted lots of sex until I was pregnant and then nothing at all! At least he could still make fun of it. And it is definitely his own fault if he managed already the first month we actually tried
Broodzilla, I have that same kind of lump very often, usually on my right side, just next to my belly button. But I'm always wondering if it is the head or the bottom.
I'll be 26 weeks tomorrow. They are still turning for a couple of more weeks, aren't they? Sometimes my whole belly, especially again around the belly button, is moving like a wave. I suppose that is some kind of turn, just couldn't tell if it is just sidewards or more an up-down-change

DS has a fever, a sore throat and a cough. Am managing not to run around shrieking 'The PLAGUE! The piggy plague is upon us!' but it's a near thing. He's currently asleep, having spent the morning esconced like a tiny wheezing emperor on the couch with (forbidden) Thomas the Tank Engine movies and (forbidden) juice to drink. He's not really interested in eating, but the juice seems to be going down ok.

I went to the hospital this morning, to discuss DS's birth and my options for this birth. The consultant was discussing my hospital notes from that birth, and honestly, I felt as if I'd fallen down the rabbit hole - according to my notes, I was officially in labour for all of FIVE HOURS. This was certainly news to DH and me, who had to pay for eighteen hours worth of hospital parking (and my waters broke six hours before I got to the hospital). Given that I was at 10 cm by 6 am (when I insisted that they do an internal) and DS was born at 10.30, that makes the second stage of labour alone a grand total of four and a half hours.

My guess: they were badly understaffed, and left me in the pre-labour ward until I was at 8 cm because that way, they could leave me alone and unattended. Then they moved me to the labour ward, and the 'official' stats on the paperwork reflect the time when they finally moved me to the labour ward ie. the point when I was already in transition.

Also, apparently I DIDN'T haemorrhage in the third stage. I have no clue why they were arguing over the top of me about whether or not to give me a transfusion, and what the fun bimanual uterine massage was for, then (and the hospital records don't show why he was scraping around with metal instruments inside me, either. Some sort of gynaecological treasure hunt? Your guess is as good as mine.)

Honestly, I am just so ANGRY. The only question which the consultant answered satisfactorily was whether or not it's possible to do an instrumental birth on someone suffering SPD without putting them in stirrups (apparently not). So, SPD girls, when your community midwife says reassuringly that they won't be yanking your legs wide apart, that only holds true if you don't need ventouse or forceps.

I suppose now I know why they refer to 'doctoring' notes - it's because doctors do it.

If anyone out there happens to have a BT Vision Box, it's got a 35 min dumbed down simple video on the care of new-borns, a 1 hour thing on "natural pregnancy" and a 2.5 hour () breastfeeding instruction video.

I've watched the first two, didn't really learn much but made DH sit through the new born care one, and am brazing myself for the BF marathon. (2.5 hours. Seriously. I will not utter the words, but... is it really THAT complicated?)

Scarlotti I got the Amby, it was £150 on kiddicare.com so saved nearly 25% on the RRP.
'tis still rather pricey, but am hoping that it will eliminate the need for a crib (and cut down on the sleepless nights)

Kreme!

Yep still 3 months to go or more... 26 weeks here
I have had so many comments from ds nursery teachers and other mothers about my size (must be due soon NOT) and imagine when I turn up for school run in sept still with a bump and imagine when I am still there after oct half term!!!

I had Tesco lasagne in the end. Very nutritious lunch indeed. All I need now is Krispy Cream.

No tears beep thats amazing..my pushing was frantic I suppose...DD was 9lb 1oz and got a nasty third degree. I will be keeping an eye on breathing and pushing this time..thanks. Also did the perenial massage to no avail..

pavlov lovely dream..

Bump is huge..do we really have 3 months to go!!!

BBL yes, I reckon it's a symptom. If I do it when I'm too tender though it ends up in me getting thrush.
Am the same though, v little intimacy if we don't so end up feeling quite lonely too. Am wondering if we should be exploring other options. To be fair, DH is a lovely guy and quite sensitive to my feelings so I suspect my hormones have made me feel worse.
Maybe will chat about it tonight when I'm feeling a little more stable!

Chicken and bacon salad sandwich here, yum!

Scarlotti hugs from me too. It must be a symptom of pregnancy having really sensative bits. I'm the same. Also I just don't fancy it. I feel such a lump. But I 'miss' the intimacy of it so it's a bit of a tug really: to do it and put up with the pain and tenderness or not do it and feel lonely and also a bit sorry for DH.

It's raining

I'm hungry and could just eat a cheese and ham melt Yum.

Oh it's not morning, it's almost lunch time! Yey! I am alredy thinking about ham and cheese melt from Eat....

Morning ladies,

I have been very emotional recently. But very supporting husband. I am feeling bit unappreciated at work at the moment. Came in today even though I asked for a day off but wasn’t told if I could or not so came in just in case anyway.

I am off to wedding tonight. Have a very busy weekend ahead. I am leaving ds and dh behind. I will miss them. Especially as will only get back on really late flight on Sunday so probably won’t see ds until I come back from work on Monday night! Unless he gets up really early on Monday morning before I leave the house at 7am.

What is belly bar you have been talking about?

Have you looked at mountain buggy? I love mine. Used it till recently with ds (4.5y now). Nope he is not lazy, we take it with us on hikes etc. It’s great. We had the pram addition to start with as ds was winter baby but you can use it from newborn. Can add car seat so is a proper travel system. Light and so easy to steer with just one hand. Also has a massive shopping basket, can hang things on it and won’t tipple over! I used to walk everywhere and used public transport and can’t fault it!

Pavlov what a dream! I can’t even imagine her yet. I seem to be dreaming about zombies only lately.

Ds was two weeks late (if you take 28 days cycle, which mine is longer) so was induced and weight 3.75kgs I think that might be 8lb 5oz? I grazed a lot (I remember dreading to go to the toilet for at least a week it was that painful) and a really small tear (mw said maybe one stitch do I want it? I said no.)

Broodzilla good to 'see' you again. Thanks for the comments.

So you're going for a hammock too?! We've opted for one and I managed to get it on eBay for almost half the original price. As far as I know they can use it up to about 40lbs if you have the stronger spring. I'd say the bed question will only be answered when your lo reaches nearer that age - you'll know if he/she's a night time wriggler by then!
I've also bought the TT closer to nature breast pump

Hi Ladies,

I know I said that I wouldn't be doing marathon posts anymore, but my GOSH have you lot been chatty for the past couple of days!

I've actually sat here and caught up and written notes for myself so I remember who said what!

Scarlotti You are NOT being unreasonable. At ALL. Men can be such insensitive wombats. I'm in the "what's sex?" club, and luckily DH is not complaining (although I suspect that also has to do with the fact that he doesn't fancy shagging a walrus...) but a friend of mine was telling me about her DH complaining about the lack of action, and when she'd broken down and told him that she feels really unattractive he'd just told her to get over herself as it's not fair he should suffer because she's got issues! (I mean really, how about a big kiss and cuddle and a white lie if he must?)

Ursi I can sometimes feel (and see!) the head, as he is transverse at the moment and sometimes pushes his head up so that I have a massive lump on the right side of my bump. It's quite freaky and a bit uncomfortable when he does it, but quite cute at the same time. Over the last few days I've also felt little feet if I'm on my left side and he's kicking that way.
I'm with you re: the "new smell", when the pram arrived the whole room had that new furniture smell... will make sure I put it outside one sunny day to air out properly. I know it's paranoid, but I just keep thinking of all the chemicals...

beepbeep and scorpion a fellow bike-widow over here... <waves>

Pavlov AAWWWW to your dream! How sweet, and how lovely that it made you feel so positive! I must say I really admire you. I was just thinking that other day that I really don't know how anyone who already has DCs can cope with the nausea, and found myself wishing it had been twins so that it would've all been over and done with in one go. I'd love to think that we'll have another DC one day - must just hope that the people who say every pregnancy is different are right!

Erika I've been keeping a diary since the BFP, but I've been writing it for the baby. I just realized it might've been nice to keep one for myself too, in case I ever go through this again, or I don't know... If I ever have a daughter. Next time!

And a little update...

I think I already told you that I went to a baby second hand shop around where I live and had a near panic-attack at all the STUFF. It was so overwhelming I ended up walking out. Also, to be fair, it wasn't actually all that cheap either, so instead I've spent a few hours on-line. Just had the first delivery, which included a breast pump (Boots have got the Tommee Tippee Closer to Nature for 1/2 price at the moment!), have also got some maternity pads (that look strangely like puppy training pads...) and some clothes for the little one. Will order the hammock later today. (BTW, supposedly babies can sleep in the hammock til they're 12 months. Would that be too early for them to move in to a "real" bed - with a guard rail, of course?)

Not planning to do any nip-prep as I read that the baby sucking will stimulate whatever centre in the brain that gets the milk flowing so I thought that it would be better to not have de-sensitized them?

I've taken to sleeping with a banana next to my bed as I keep waking up at 5AM ravenous. (OTH, I'm pretty much keeping new-born hours at the moment anyway as we've temporarily got three kittens as well as our normal three cats in the house, so am up every hour letting someone in or out anyway.) I know now why kittens are so cute - if they were any less adorable you'd end up booting them out in the rain when you've had three hours sleep and find one of them climbing in your ficus!

Have found my inflatable in-flight neck support pillow is the BEST for sleeping with between my legs. Ahhh.

I think the Lucozade test must be one of those regional things, I certainly wasn't told about it.

Umm, that should be all.

helips thanks for sharing, I feel a little better knowing it's not just me

We managed it twice on hols, were away for 10 days. I put it down to being so relaxed from laying on a sun lounger all day - my feet didn't swell up as much either

[whispers] me and dh haven't done 'it' at all since finding out I'm pregnant Too be honest we haven't had much opportunity as we are both either too tired or ds is up and about. We were meant to be going away this weekend, just the two of us, to the theatre and then stay over in a posh hotel in London so thought it might happen then, however due to my swine flu we have had to cancel

Still feeling utterly rubbish, just wish this bloody cough would go, tis very annoying!

Thanks girls.

Trikken am the same really, the mood can come and go with the wind. Everything is just so sensitive down there that it's not that enjoyable when it does happen either.
I think it was more the fact I was supposed to be able to put a time frame on it - can't it just be that if it happens then it's a brucey bonus?!

Sacrlotti I really feel for you. It just leaves every kiss and cuddle so loaded with expectation.
But your DH is probably just feeling a little left out and I doubt he wants to have sex with some one who's not enjoying it. He just wants to know you still want him and he's being a bit selfish about it.

I think my dp is having the opposite reaction so I told him I'd seen a thread on MN where a dp had said "not even from behind in the dark" (during pg) and I could see the relief on his face that he wasn't alone. We are both able to laugh about it though and it's kind of a running joke now.

Erika aww to dp buying you flowers, i love unexpected flowers. also the course idea sounds like a great one.

scarlotti you cant help not being up for it, i think it was a bit unfair of your dh to ask you that. with me it can change daily according to mood and how im feeling well-wise, i wouldnt like being asked how long it would go on for- i just couldnt tell. dont feel blue, cos you are doing an amazing thing.

Thanks, ladies. Will check into both of those things

Aw scarlotti... Have some free hugs!!! Men are such odd creatures... Don't let him guilt you into though, if its too uncomfortable, then don't. Maybe you could still find time to be intimate without getting carried away? Like take a bath together or something... This end, since DP has put on weight (he's doing so damn well, I'm so proud of him!) his libido has gone shooting up. Its nice to feel like I'm still attractive, at least in someone elses eyes, but its annoying at times!

I've eaten so much this morning and still famished.

Morning all

Feeling blue here today, and tired and hungry, and maybe just a little sorry for myself

DH asked last night whether my current lack of desire was likely to last until the baby was born - just so he knows and can plan acordingly.
Made me feel awful, like any discomfort I'm feeling is an aside to the issue of him not getting his end away. Now feel a bit lonely tbh - AIBU?
Talk some sense into me please!

erika It might be worth checking that the course you want to do is accredited. This website should have some info http://www.bacp.co.uk/

erika (and anyone else thinking abt studying while on maternity leave/ part time work further down the line) - do you know about the ILA accounts? Everyone is entitled to £200 per year towards courses and £500 per year, dependant on the course and if income is under £18000 (and I don't think they consider household income, just the applicant).

I've been looking into real nappies as well but my goodness it is complicated! Hoping to find somewhere local to view all the different types, if not I think my nappylady adviser will be in for a very long phone call!

Erika - the course sounds great, I love having a bit of 'me' time, ie. not time focusing solely on baby. I think you'd enjoy the time out as much as anything and April isn't unrealistic. Go for it!

Re big babies, I'm really hoping this one drops back to the 9lbs or even in the 8s wouldbe good, they've told me this one will prb be bigger than last, but know people who've gone the other way so I'm trying to convince myself i'm one of those! Tho health vistitor did comment on my size yesterday when DS had his jabs.

I'm enjoying them so much. Just in the third chapter of Jacob's POV in Breaking Dawn... Getting very exciting. I questionable writers choice, admittedly, changing perceptions, but it works. Risky, though!

I'm thinking of looking into doing a course in counselling. I need SOMETHING to be doing with my life, and an OU course is out of the question, simply because the level of commitment balanced with a new born is irrational. But there's a ten one afternoon a week course for the Level One, and one of the dates starts in April, and is an evening course. That would be fab, as its just round the corner from my DPs place as well. It would give me something to feel positive about, give me some time off from baby, and also give DP some Daddy-Son time, which I know he's really looking forward to Its £150 but I think it would be well worth it...

Think it might well be bed time * yawns * Am shattered!! DP's just washed my hair and given me a back rub... Duvet is calling!!!

ErikaMaye I've read all the twilight books - I read them all in a row. I couldn't put them down! My 12-year-old niece recommended them to me and I don't care if they are teenage and corny they are great!

Nipple shields - didn't work for me. Hurt just as much as without and harder to suck.

DS1 was 9lbs 14oz. DS2 was only 9lbs 4 oz. Hoping for a smaller one again!

Watching Wednesday's BB at the moment. Catching up!

I'll be honest, when I "got dressed" today, it consisted of knickers and a cami-top until about ten minutes before DP came home You poor think, Trikken, I hope you cool down soon!!!

DP came back with a bunch of sunflowers for me - my favourite!!! Feeling very soppy and gushy right now - we're decided to spend the evening watching chick flicks instead of dragging ourselves out to the cinema. Might even treat myself to a glass of Rose...

Erika I know what you mena about the over-heating, tho it doesnt help that i decided it would be cold and put my mat jeans and long t-shirt on and been boiling, and yesterday when it was cold I was wearing a dress!

All those large numbers are making my eyes water!!! My mother and DP were both under 3lb - DP was three months prem, he only just survived, and mum is a twin, and they were six weeks early.

I think I was about 6lb. My brother was 4lb because my mum had a tumour at the same time.

A small head and average size would be nice, please!!!

Ninja indeed ... all 4 boys were above the 10lbs mark and the mother was only 4'11" [wince]

She was a hardy Scotswoman married to a trawlerman though - maybe that is the difference?!

I'm keeping my legs crossed at the mere thought of 11lb 10zo

Ursi glad I'm not the only one

Ninja didn't think you were at all! 9lbs 12oz made my eyes water. DH's dad (where the large baby and male baby genes come from) was 11lbs 10!!!

DS' birth wasn't that traumatic to be fair, just exceptionally quick and due to there being a bit of meconium in my waters I had to be constantly monitored. He came through at a fair pace and the mw made me push him out in one long push as his heartrate had dipped, hence the tearing.

I've since done my research and the evidence points to the meconium being from a mature gut (not distress) and all babies get a heart rate dip right at the end in the birth canal. So with hindsight (what a marvellous thing!) I could have stood my ground and just pushed him out a bit slower.

The stitching bit wasn't too bad tbh, plenty of local took away any pain. Worst bit for me was that the mw dragged DH down to look at her handiwork after 45 mins of stitching with my legs still in the stirrups Not the picture I wanted him to have of me post delivery of his firstborn!!!

Ugh, is anyone else over heating today? Damn pregnancy and ME * grumbles *

Ah well, pjs and watching Black Books is in fact the cure for everything, right? Just wish DP's freezer wasn't broken, could really do with some ice cream...

I think we've got most things now - got enough clothes for the first few weeks, and all the equipment except from cot and sterilisers. Thank goodness we didn't have too much in our attic!

pavlov, what a nice dream, especially after having had a rather hard time.
lemontop, I think too that I should start with getting stuff, at least getting information about it. For the big things there are always delivery times to respect and new furniture has a strong smell too. (And I'm always a last minute person, so I'm a bit worried to end up with nothing when the baby comes)
Ninjacat, I do agree with you, so at least you are not alone being weird. I like getting comments about my bump. And I really think it is just a way of showing interest. (And to be honest I'm always comparing the size of my bump with other pregnant women, I was even jealous once as one woman in pregnancy yoga is a week behind me but has a bigger one!!!! )

Scarlotti wasn't competative birthing by the way. I know the size of baby doesn't nessasarily reflect on the expirience of birth. Sounds like you had a dreadful time with dc2.

Lets hope this time goes some way to repair some of the trauma.

lemontop that's just scary. 25 weeks and you're supposed to start getting stuff already? I also plan to wonder around shops to have a look at stuff, make a list and then perhaps shove it on to somebody else to do the actual shopping. Or order on line, but not before seeing it in real life.

We're not going to prepare a nursery until she's a couple of months old and hope to keep things simple. Newborn babies don't need much, do they? I read a lovely line from a fellow mn-er, not sure if it was on this thread: few clothes, a clean bum, a boob and lots of cuddles. That's my motto now!

skorpion the advice I've been getting on mn is that the motherease airflow wraps are best for newborn as they are poppered up the side and waist, so contain explosive poos best. I've got a few to try and am now trying to wait until baby arrives before buying any more. Want to check they suit him size wise.
If he follows my other two he'll be shorter and chubbier!

Erika am in Brighton/Hove but will be working up until mid October, sorry.

I think the pram thing really depends on what your lifestyle is like - are you going to be hauling it on and off buses (in which case, you want lightweight and easily collapsed with one hand!) or are you a big walker(in which case, a Jane model or Phil and Ted with big wheels is prob your best bet)..? I keep one pushchair for train travel, and the Phil and Ted for hiking around the village on dodgy terrain.

Skorpion - Nipple shields, £3.99 in Mothercare Most hilarious things I've ever seen, I must confess, but they seem like SUCH a brilliant idea.

Ohhh is anyone else a Twilight fan?? I've just got on to the last in the series. Don't normally do the teen-angst crap, but these are so well written.

Anyone in Brighton / Hove who wants to get coffee at some point? Am going out of my mind being so unsocial, and found out yesterday that the only contact I have (A mental health support group I run) will probably fold as the professional we have onboard is leaving * sigh *

Have eaten so much today already. I did a really silly thing and weighed myself earlier. Am over ten stone for the first time in my life.

Hi everyone.

pavlov lovely dream. I've found I've started having fairly insane dreams this week. Nothing as pleasant as yours though!

Today was the first day I haven't been woken up by baby kicking me, telling me to eat and I slept in till ten, which must be a record for this pregnancy.

25 weeks today. I got an email saying this was the week to think about getting all the baby stuff you still need. What?! I haven't bought anything yet. There are so many different types of buggies to start with. I read the reviews on here yesterday and still I'm non the wiser. I think I need to go to a shop and try some stuff out.

wizzy my sister bf'd after cs number two and three. She found lying on her side the most comfortable and she had no problems.
She also used a rubber shield for the nips, must ask her about that.

pavlov lovely dream! I haven't got any ideas about the lo, what she'll look like, who she'll be. I do start wondering though.

Speaking of dreams, last night I was being examined in a room full of med students. I can still recall looking at around twenty people staring between my hoiked legs How exhibitionist is that!

scarlotti I got an e-mail back from the nappy lady (very quick) and got recommendation for two brands I haven't even heard of. More to choose from. I'll follow your advice and go on to MN nappy discussions. Thanks again.

beepbeep DH cycles a lot, too. Does your use a road bike? Fantastic cycling countryside around Oxford, love the Cotswolds. We lived in the Chilterns before, that was great, too. I sometimes call myself jokingly a cycling widow, but to be honest better that than out-to-pub-to-get-legless-every-weekend widow. Hope your DH has a nice day of cycling.

Morning all -just been to collect DH's new bike, so that'll be the last I see of him today!!

DD was 8.1lb and the DS jumped exactly 2lb to 10.1lb, and that was after weeing and passing his meconium!! I'm hoping this one doing jump another 2 lbs!

Re nipples - I never did anything to prepare my nipples, nor did I do the perenial massage my yoga teacher keeps going on about, neither time did i tear and with DS didn't even have a graze, think it's more important that the pushing is controlled and not frantic.

I am back at work (can you tell?). Feeling much better. Verdict: No Temp so no SF. Just a bog standard sore throat virus.

Scarlotti I dream of having an 8lb 10oz baby. DS was 9lb 12oz but my Mum says thats easy as I myself was 10lb 4oz
Any way hence the GTT test.

Hope everyone is well and Helpis do make sure you get plenty of rest and fluids. Whatever you do don't push yourself into any thing too physical untill you are 100% better.

I think I'm wierd. I kind of like it when people are fixated on my bump. I just think damn right it's huge and I'm proud as punch

Feeling very sad today as dp is off to work the festival season so won't see him untill Monday night now then he leaves again Tuesday morning and so the summer will continue in such a fashion. I should be going to but have resigned myself I just cant keep up with the pace (or the crowds) still will be good for ds to have some Mum time before lo arrives.

pav and scarlotti thanks for the pram advice, I have been thinking about getting something from ebay, I do a lot of walking so really want something that lays flat, but with 3 dcs space is a big issue, think we will have a test of a few at kiddicare on Saturday and see what works, then I can look for it on ebay at a bargain price!
I'll probably go for a Maclaren when baby is a little older too as they fold up so small.

erika Enjoy Harry Potter

Pavlov, we bought the Zapp for DS, and I've got to say that I'm not loving it because a) you can't hang anything off the back handlebars (nappy bag, groceries etc) without risking the whole thing tipping over backwards, b) the raincover is HOPELESS, it's just velcro'd together and slides off the handlebars all the time (even if your beloved child doesn't kick it off), and c) the foot brake and release seem to be buggered after only a year. I actually bent the wheel trying to unjam the brake, and then the whole thing wouldn't run, and I had to carry it off the bus (where we were at the time). Awful thing. It's now sitting in the cupboard, and I'm using the Phil and Ted all the time.

I do love the sound of your dream though. Reminds me of one I had with DS where this coracle came drifting across a lake with a fat smiling fair baby in it, and I remember picking him up and thinking 'Ah, so THIS is what you look like! Okay, you'll do!' He did look much like that eventually! (The only dream I've had about this kid was when I pulled up a mandrake, Harry-Potter-style, and there he was, shrieking his head off crossly.)

Ursigurke, I don't think you need to prepare your nipples. Get in some lansinoh or similar stuff, and just air 'em out as much as you can once the baby's here - I found that once the first couple of weeks were past, it was fine.

Wizzy, you should be able to bf after a c-section, you just need someone to help you with different holds (like how to nurse lying down on your side, or the football hold) and make sure the midwives stay on their toes getting the baby in and out of the bassinet for you. Maybe call NCT or La Leche to see if someone can advise you in advance?

Went to see HP last night, and God, I was uncomfortable - cinema seats are not designed for SPD, apparently. My lower back was killing me, ditto my hips, and I wound up trying to ball up my cardigan and DH's jacket so I could shove them under me. The baby also seemed to object to the loud noises, and kept trying to burrow away in the direction of my tailbone. Ow, ow, ow!

Thanks, scarlotti, I'll have a browse.

Pavlov that such a beautiful dream, I'm jealous In a good way!!

Rough night again, didn't get much sleep, and not entirely sure how I feel this morning. Was woken up by Bryn (We're trying to get used to saying his name instead of "Him" or "The baby", as Mum is still calling by the nickname and DP hates it!) kicking away, obviously saying, "Eat something, I'm hungry!!!". I thought they weren't supposed to wake you up for feeds until after they were born...

DP has promised to take me to see Harry Potter tonight

As for belly comments... I was in Tesco yesterday (Saw a couple of pregnant women and couldn't help but wonder if they were any of you lot ) and the lovely guy at the tills was chatting away and asked how I was. I said I was knackered, to which he said, "Ah, but you're young, no excuse!" I laughed and replied that I was ill and pregnant, I was most definitely allowed to be tired. He looked shocked and said he couldn't' tell I was pregnant. I didn't know whether to be insulted or complimented! I did have a big jumper on though...

tigger we've gone for the buggy board option. I bought a 2nd hand bugaboo on eBay as our old travel system was too heavy now we've moved to somewhere with stairs down to the front door. DS will be 4 when LO arrives, old enough to walk but not for long trips.

I'll sell it again once we've no longer any use for it and hopefully recoup some of the money.

tigger we are buying a Quinny Zapp, for 6 months on, and a maxi cosi car seat to fit it, and for the first 6 months we will use that. With DD, I hardly used the pushchair/travel system, and the only bit we used really was the carseat part when she was asleep. I carried her mostly in a front carrier, and DH used the carseat. She would be taken out whenever we got to where we were going, and I cannot see myself doing shopping or needing to keep baby in a pushchair for more than 2 hours, so carseat will be fine.

Then, at 6 months, we will have the Zapp as a stroller. If it does not work, I shall sell it and get a maclaren or something, if I find I need the baby in it more than I planned, as the Zapp has good resale value (and I should be able to pick this AND the carseat up for less than £200). It is also light, and easily compactable, which is key with a toddler (DD will be the same age as your LO, 3), it takes up little room as it great for travelling too.

Morning all,

pav what a great dream,

Was going to ask if anyone had a bought a pram yet, but I see helips and wizziwoo have. I'm not sure what to get yet, ds2 will be 3 when bump arrives so should be able to walk everywhere, however its a 2 mile round trip to school which I think is too far for him to do twice a day, thinking maybe just a buggyboard? not sure.

No leaking boobs here yet (don't think I got that until afterwards last time)
BBL and fruitpastels my tummy button has very nearly popped out too, no line for me yet though.

Went to visit my friend in hospital yesterday, she has had a horrendous time and it sounds very scary . She had to be blue lighted to hospital because apparently once you bleed with placenta previa it can mean your placenta could just come away so would need to deliver asap! This is why she now has to stay put until birth, she seems ok though, quite happy.
Just so not to panic anyone with placenta previa she has a very very bad case which is quite unusual, its alot more common for the placenta to move by the 34 week scan

Anyway I've gone on enough, hope you all have a good day and those feeling poorly are better soon.

Yeah, sadly DH comes from a long line if big babies. DD is his step-daughter, and was also 3.5 weeks early. I'm expecting this one to be around the same size to be honest, guess if I'm mentally prepared then that's the best.

Am sure this time will be much smoother for you, not least as you've done it before so your confidence levels are up. Also, if this one isn't feeding as much as maybe he could, you'll spot it earlier. Remember too that they can't make you stay in, especially with the threat of flu or other bugs, you are within your rights to say that you will all thrive better at home and you're willing to have extra mw visits.

I think I will stand up for myself much better this time. I was made to push DS out far too quickly, hence the mess I ended up in, and on researching the situation since I think there was no need for all the monitoring I went through. This time I will be better prepared to say I want things done more my way.

pavlov Rofl!! I am starting to wonder whether to just tak the p!ss for my own sport. Would I get arrested for touching someone who touched me I wonder...?! My personal preference is comments along the line of 'pregnant?! OMG! I hadn't noticed' or 'Just one in there? Gosh, I never thought to find out..'

Scarlotti - at your second one! I hope he is not that big! DD was 5lb exactly (although on the photo of the weighing machine, I am sure it is just under). Perfectly healthy but nice and small, although she still managed to get stuck! It meant I had to stay in hosp for 7 days to make sure she gained weight, which she did, but I was quite pleased. This time though, I will have DD to worry about too, and won't want to be away from her or the family home for that long.

You are right, it has helped me enormously feel more positive about this pregnancy. I always knew I wanted the baby even though I felt so crap but I worried my negativity would affect my bonding. If the dream is anything to go by, not likely!

pavlov x-posts - what a beautiful post Am delighted for you and am sure that this will go a long way to compensating for your tough time so far.

If he does turn up at 5lbs 10oz too then at you!! DD was 5lbs 6oz which was fab and left me almost intact, DS was 8lbs 10oz and let's just say not much of me was left intact after his entrance

scarlotti have you considered being violent? I think you are legally allowed to be violent in pregnancy . I agree, it is very rude. I get it too, the other way. 23 weeks? You can't be? Is the baby alright? etc etc. fuuuuuck ooooooff and I smile sweetly while thinking what it would feel like to slap them!

Morning ladies

Erika I have borrowed my belly bar from a friend so not sure where you can get them. There's enough shops around us though that sell belly jewellry (sp?) so I reckon if you popped into one of those next time you're out you'd find out. It's a very long plastic bar with white plastic balls, so not pretty in the least but long enough to last right through!

I have had several comments over the last few weeks about my size mainly around the idea that I can't possibly still have 3 months to go and am I sure there's only 1 in there! I think it's rude to be honest, I wouldn't dream of commenting on a strangers size or shape. I think if you're feeling a bit large, or having an off day the last thing you need is strangers making it worse!

helips my bump has gone down a little and changed shape recently, I'm wondering if it's organs moving out of the way a little or baby moving. I get bad constipation (sorry tmi!) and find it gets smaller again when the latest bout has passed

Sorry to dash in and not respond to posts,, rude I know, but I just had the. most. amazing. dream.

I met him. My little boy. I gave birth, which I remember enough detail of to know it was real in my dream but not enough to dwell on it. I then carried him everywhere for a couple of days, attached to me. I recall breastfeeding him for the first time, then every few hours afterwards. I recall him waking for a feed and that amazing realisation that I did have another baby. He remember all the feelings that I felt and it was all wonderful. I also recall telling everyone his name, which is the name DH and I are considering, in the dream is was very matter of fact, that was his name, end of story, but no middle name decided, which is true! I remember texting people to tell them he had been born, and I remember his weight! (5lb 10oz) which I was pleased about as it was more than DD and meant I did not have to stay in hospital.

The only thing that made it a little less real was that he spoke once, in a baby voice, said 'cuddle' and 'milk' .

But I loved him. And now I feel I know him a bit better. How weird is that?!!! I wonder if it is because I had some anxieties over how I would feel as I have felt so crap about the pg over the last few months.

Not today though, I feel very excited

I will now go and read posts and try to respond!

Hi all, still ill with the swine flu, dh has gone back to work but my in-laws are coming over to take ds out for the day so that I can rest.

wizzy My phil and teds arrived yesterday and is still in the box too! I haven't the energy to get it out, thats a job for dh at the weekend!

I had a cs and still managed to breastfeed. I just made sure I was well propped up in the beginning and used a breastfeeding pillow, very useful.

I think my bump has gone down a little bit since being ill, it still is rather large though! Had an argument the other day with a woman in m &s about how pregnant I was, she wouldn't believe I was almost 6 months, kept counting the months on her finger and saying I had longer to go. Thing is she was including July and Nov, we are at the end of July now and I'm due beginning of Nov so she was getting it wrong. I said 'I think I know how pregnant I am, thanks' and walked off, stupid woman (her, not me!)

WizzyWoo, there are a couple of people touching my belly too, some without even asking. I would never do that but I've realised that they are only happy for me and want to show it and maybe say hi to the baby. If you see it from this point, it is actually a nice thing. And I really like getting comments about the size of my bump (which is not yet huge though), maybe that's a first timer thing.

Forgot to ask - is there anyone from around the Morpeth/Newcastle area? There seems to be a couple of happy groups in our club from Oxford and London. Just wondering if anyone lived anywhere near me?

Evening All

I've done it again - I haven't checked in for a few days and now I'm frantically trying to catch up, which will mean another long post from me (sorry everyone!) I hope anyone suffering from swine flu/other lurgies are feeling better x

Scarlotti Thanks for the advice, I hadn't thought about tucking the extra slack on a single duvet cover under... My Night Garden theme is therefore back on again!

Katster don't get me started on the touching of the bump/commenting on the bump topic. It's like we're public property. 3 completely random people were shocked on Saturday when they asked when I was due and I told them. One said she thought DH would be running for the hot water and towels any day now! Wish people would stop patting it. I think it would be deemed inappropriate if I went around touching men's beer bellies... - "ooh, you're looking rather apple shaped - it must be a Heineken baby" wouldn't go down too well methinks!

Turtle Have you tried propping your bump up with a pillow? I started with insomnia last week and DH bought me a Dream Genie and it's helped a lot, even though I didn't think my sleepless nights were caused by that...

welcome tink - glad you could join us. I completely sympathise with spd - I'm on crutches and pelvic brace at the mo and back at yet another physio appointment tomorrow.

Helips Snap! Just bought a green Phil and Teds double at the weekend and it arrived yesterday. Still in box though, as haven't got energy to get it out or more to the point, try and force it back in the box the way it was again! Hope you're feeling better x

I have a question about breastfeeding - did anyone have CS first time round and still manage to bf? I have to make a decision at some point as to what I'm going to do due to my complications, ie, being induced and have long labour again (so I was informed today by x linked ichthyosis specialist, boo hiss!) or have elective cs but have no family around to help us. I didn't bf first time round but hated expense of formula so would really like to try this time but scared of how to manage the pain of cs if it comes to it.

Baby has hiccups again. Seems to get them about 20 minutes after I've eaten or drank anything... Difficult to concentrate at work when it happens!

I think I've bored everyone enough now so i'm off to bed. Hope you all have a good night's sleep.

Scarlotti - where did you get your maternity one from? Need to get one.

My belly button sticks out already.

Can I join the 'sex - what's that?' club too. We manage about once a fortnight and (I hope DH doesn't read this) that's too much for me. I find my bits really ache afterwards. They are so tender.

I'm watching BB. I'm two nights behind though - I'm watching Monday's BB. I can't watch it in the daytime as the DSs are off school and it's a tad rude for them!

usigurke I was ok with her suggestions, I mainly used them as a starting point and then read up on the site as to what is good or not. There's another called clothnappytree that's good - and the mn board is fabulous for advice.

Re preparing your nipples - nope, never done that here. If you get the latching on working, then your nipples don't actually rub in the baby's mouth so won't get sore. Easier said than done though at times..

My belly button is bigger and still dips in, just! Have put in my maternity belly bar now so am all set!

My belly button is nearly popping out. Also I have a faint line called the linea nigra appearing, i had this with DS. It faded a few months after birth.

DS (nearly 4) was watching me rub oil on my tummy tonight, he wanted to join in and was so delicate in rubbing my tummy. It was a very sweet moment . I'm under pressure to produce a brother for him as he he insists it's a boy!

scarlotti, were you happy with the advice you got from thenappylady? I just got an email and what they suggest is about the opposite of what I had thought in the first place. Maybe I did the ranking the other way round .

My belly button is still pretty much the same - I still have my belly bar in, too.

Trikken that's so cute!!! DP and I both said "Awww"

We're being lazy and fat tonight - pepperoni pizza on the way!! Ohhh its here!!!

beepbeep, mine are leaking a little bit, I sometimes find little white stains in my bra and once, I saw a little drop coming out... freaked me out a little bit. I suppose I should get used to that before starting to breastfeed...
speaking of it: does anybody (or did anybody in their first pregnancies) "prepare the breasts for it? I read in a (generally good, maybe sometimes a bit oldfashioned) book that you should prepare your nipples. I suppose it wouldn't be the worst idea but I don't think I'm able to torture myself (the described methods are really a bit harsh)
trikken, same kind of belly button over here but no cute story to tell about it like yours. I guess if my husband starts stuffing sweeties in it it's just weired and not cute like your son

beepbeep i find mine do, but its usually when im in the bath for some reason, or maybe just concious of it then, but its only a little.

also my belly-button is no longer a cute circle, but a huge crater-like hole. ds likes to talk into it, and also tried to stuff a sweetie into it the other day because "sister might want a sweetie too".

Also in the 'sex - what's that?' club!!

Has anyone else found that their breats are leaking a bit already? Am only 22 weeks, remember them starting early last time, but didn't think it was this early!

GARRRRRR!!!!

Went back to the council offices AGAIN today for the fourth time, to be told that I have to go to a different council to get my bus pass because of where I live!!! SURELY they could have told me this the FIRST time when I went in and showed them my address??? AHHHH.

I hate people today. * sulks

*ursigurke, sometimes I do know the position. I feel elbows as well as kicks at times! I can feel how the baby is laying if I poke him too...

Thank you so much ladies for reassuring me that I am not becoming freakishly fat. I think I have been frightened by the book I read that said you should put on 400g per week. I have resolved to be more relaxed about it, but at the same time STOP EATING the chocolate digestives at the office....

PPS..sex....no thanks..poor DH

PS eeyore2 have put on 5 kgs..and my current weight is what I weighed with DD full term.

lemontop feels like its all downhill now.. Dh is very concerned about my size... i get terrible cramps in bed and turning is like shifting a glacier with your groin..what a mare.

eeyore, I don't think you have already gained a lot of weight. I first lost 3kg, then it was rather stable and from week 14 or 15 I started to put on about 8kg already.
If you are planning to breastfeed, it will disappear quickly. I still remember my sister telling me that she could eat as much as she wanted and was still loosing weight while breastfeeding.
scarlotti, thanks for that link, I've just filled in the questionaire. But I'm planning to go to a nappucchino as well. I don't like buying things I haven't seen.
Just out of curiosity: Does anybody has a clue about the position of the baby? I read you could feel the body parts and I can't imagine that. I do feel something hard sometimes, usually just right from my belly button but I have no clue if it is head or bottom. I also wonder if the kicks I feel are rather hands or feet.

scarlotti thanks for the website, I'll definitely use it.

skorpion I did a questionnaire on www.thenappylady.co.uk and got a response from an advisor as to which ones would suit my circumstances best. It's free. I've also posted on mn in the nappies section to get some advice, there's plenty of helpful people willing to share. Am going to get a few types and then see which suits best I think.

Ditto with the restless legs, mine also can turn into full cramp - that wakes you up!!

Weight wise - mine works out at about 9.5kg so far Guess my body is just far more efficient at creating those fat stores as it's done it before. Sigh.

Sex. What's that?

Trikken - Usually I'm quite up for it!! My libido has been higher since I've been pregnant then pretty much ever... Its crazy. Glad your DH is being good

Eeyore, I'm sending you some unMN-like hugs. My tip? STAY AWAY FROM THE SCALES. Ask the MW to keep the weight change to herself, and don't weight yourself at home. Its not the same, I know, but when I was recovering from my ED staying away from how much I'd put on made me feel better.

Is anyone else keeping a pregnancy diary? I started writing in it on the night I turned 20 weeks, and make a point of writing in it every week. Trying to persuade DP to write too, think he's a bit unsure as to what to write.

eeyore please don't worry. You will put on weight, there's no way out of that. I think just as long as you eat as healthily as possible, try and keep fit as much as possible, all will be well <tucks into mcvities ginger cake sitting at her desk >

I've put on about 3.5kg, but I'm only 21 weeks today, no doubt will soon be catching up.

I personally think it is the staying fit(ish) that's more important, both for coping with labour and recovering afterwards. Well, at least I hope that's it - my first, so not an expert.

Hi everyone! I haven't posted for absolutely ages but hope you're all well.
I am finding it difficult not to get really obsessed by how much weight I'm putting on at the moment. The last three weeks or so I seem to have put on almost a kilo a week and am feeling really upset about it. I keep telling myself it doesn't matter, and that I should just be happy and grateful to be pregnant and healthy, but then someone says something like "not long to go now" to me assuming I'm further on than I actually am and then I get all upset again. Overall I've put on about 5.5kg (I think that's about 12lb)since getting pregnant and am 24 + 4 today. I was quite slim to start with but certainly not a stick. Would anyone like to put me out of my misery and let me know how much weight they've put on so far? Just so I can get some idea of what's normal? Sorry to be so me-me-me.....
Hope everyone has a lovely day.

Erika its amazing you even agreed to sex tho, tbh im so tired the suggestion of it makes me fall asleep. poor dh, been so good about it tho.

If second / third pregnancies are bigger, I'm only having the one baby * grumbles *

I'm not a fan of Bio Oil, tried it for years to help with my scars and it was useless. Boots have a brilliant maternity range, though. Am a fan of their honey olive neroli body butter. Smells great, feels lovely, and keeps everything moisturised for 12hrs. DP gave me a bump and back massage with it last night

Had a total hormonal over load last night - burst into tears because I was so happy when DP called the baby "My son", which is ridiculous, because he ALWAYS does it. Then burst into angry tears because the roast potatoes didn't cook properly.

And then I fell asleep during sex Oops. Luckily DP thought it was hilarious... Don't think I've ever been more embarrassed!

I think third is 26 weeks lemontop. i actually think third is no worse than the other two, just different, with a bigger bump to contend with.

Morning. That's funny, I think I pulled a muscle in my left thigh at yoga on Monday. It's been getting progressively worse, feel like I've done a huge hike on that leg, too.

I also think I have restless legs at night - have had this for years, feeling like there's lactic acid in them and they clench so uncomfortably and I have to move them to relieve it. Getting worse these days.

But overall I feel quite good, enjoying the last month of the second trimester before I turn into a whale and sleep all the time.

scarlotti I'm also going to go down the washable nappy route, well, after the first few days when I hope to master putting the disposable ones on the right way round
Just find the choice a bit overwhelming though, thinking of attending a Nappucino day at Horton in September to have a look at them.

I feel like I've got a lot bigger over the last few days. Have been having pains that I think are ligaments stretching, feeling tired and hungry all the time which would seem to tie in with my theory. Bump woke me up kicking at 6 today so I had to get up and eat. Off to the gym in a min to try and get a little bit of exercise cos I feel I'm going to end up eating all day at this rate!

My legs feel so odd. One of them feels like I've done a 50mile hike and the other one feels like it's coming away at the hip. I also have to do a sort of three point turn to turn over in bed now.

By the way when does the third trimester start? Is that at 26 weeks? My doc told me it all goes downhill after 32 weeks. Thanks doc.

Definitely bigger 2nd (and in my case 3rd) time around. I like to think that it's just our bodies remembering where we end up, and obliging earlier on in the process rather than ending up bigger.
Given I've already put on 1.5st though, I suspect I'm wrong Last time I managed to keep the weight gain to just over 2st throughout the whole pregnancy - I suspect this one will end up nearer 3st

yes, sleepless, am feeling HUGE now, and waddling here too, dh likes to call me duckie cos of the waddle. dont fit into my work uniform anymore and have had to order maternity one even tho i'll only be wearing it for 5/6 weeks by the time it gets here which is really only 5/6 days for me. I reckon second pregnancies are definately bigger, im sure i wasnt this big already with toby.

Just lurking! Congrats pedal another boy!! woo hoo

Have my sis and her teenagers over for the week so being fed yummy food and generally getting fat..Is anyone feeling HUGe.. I'm massive..and waddling already. SPD is in full swing and have another 3.5months to go..HELP...
Are second pregnancies just bigger????
BIo Oil is brill...rub well under bump and sides as that's where most if any lines appear.

you should only have to do a GTT if you you have sugars showing in your wee more than 3 times or you have previous GD or you have a high BMI and/or a close relative (mum or dad) has diabetes and this is normally done at 28 weeks. You do have to fast for 12 hours before and I fainted both times I've had it!

scarlotti, thanks for that information. I'm pretty sure she said they would take my blood twice (and that would be why the appointment will be quite time consuming) but she also definitely said that I could eat normaly. I'm definitely going to call them but I feel like I can't trust the answer I will get because the first information already seems to be wrong.
There is no specific reason why they would test me in my hospital it's done routinely but if I have to do that test I want it at least to be done correctely.
Well, need to go to bed soon. Those of you still feeling ill, I whish you a relaxing night without coughing and that you will feel much better tomorrow morning.

I haven't heard anything about a GTT test so assumed the midwife will talk about it at 28 week appointment. Does everyone get it? I'm pretty overweight so assume I'll be in that group. I think I need to go to hospital to get the blood tests done so maybe it'll be done then?

I've had a really odd craving for Mediterranean style food this week. It's been tomatoes, olive oil, basil and mozzarella non stop! yum yum.