March 2013 VIII: feeling kicks, comparing knits and halfway there

[theTramp]

Old thread www.mumsnet.com/Talk/antenatal_clubs/1588951-March-2013-VII-Our-little-pumpkins-are-getting-fatter?msgid=35174657#thread

Oh dear. Managed 4 papers (the lowest level ones) and have retired to the sofa for a lie down adn some paracetamol. My head HURTS.

em I have the boots one but it's so tiny!! I'm not sure how much I'll fit in it (or for that matter, how much I need to fit in it). It'll do as a were popping into the village for some lunch or a short walk but I don't think it's big enough for the longer trips/heading down south etc.
I'm not planning on carrying a handbag either so it has to hold my everyday stuff too.
rainbow my SiL uses a rucksack and that for her works really well but I only have one and its a 30l hiking bag so a bit extreme really (I just use a shoulder bag for Uni)! In addition I'd really like one with a shoulder strap to hang over the pram handles. SiL puts hers under her pram but she also has a huge basket (my pram doesn't) and I'd like compartments to organise the space as this is something that I've been working on for years... Staying organised. I don't want to spend ages hunting for items I want to get on with my day so perhaps a removable compartment for nappy and wipes would be better for me - then I'm not lugging a heavy bag on one shoulder whilst carrying a baby.
zoey I came across babymoov accidentally when looking at the yummy mummy range. They have some great designs (which I'm not really fussed about in a bag) but they seem so organised. Removable plastic pouches, bottle bags, dummy holders etc. I'm slightly reluctant to purchase one online though until I've seen one and felt the material/quality.

The boots one has loads of room in. Only need to carry nappies/wipes/ change of clothes, couple of cloths.
I used to carry spare food/drink for me and a book in it too. Oh & tonnes of breast pads as I leak loads

I've got a new one from vertbaudet this time but it's a similar size.

jojo I hear what you're saying re the boots bag being a bit small! I think when ds was little a typical day's paraphernalia would include, nappies, wipes, bottles, formula, mussies and at least one change of clothes! Now he's older I've switched the bottles and formula for extra toys, snacks, plasters and antiseptic wipes! We do usually manage with the boots bag but I won't lie it is a squish! I don't know if you ever go into Leeds but there is a shop there called Mummy and Little Me (I'm sorry I can't link as I'm on my phone) and they do loads of different bags- if you have a look at their website it will give you an idea. I'm going for a trip soon as they sell Aden and Anais stuff and dh has approved my request to get some!!

I've had the boots one for DS and it's still in use, though I caught it on a gate in the park a couple of weeks ago so one pocket has a small hole now. Might treat us to a new one for this baby, but gosh they are a price aren't they?!

Size wise I've never had an issue wiht it, and I was carrying cloth nappies which take more space until the morning sickness kicked in. Lots of pockets adn packets would annoy em as I'd never remember what was in which, and I don't bother carrying the travel change mat generally. But if you want lots of pockets it's probably not the right one for you.

ood sorry, cross posted earlier and didn't mean to contradict you! I don't think I'm a light packer!

JoJo - there's an intereting selection on Amazon and you can search for under £50 and most come with numerous reader reviews & ratings.

So DS and I had a duvet day and both of us are feeling better for it. He is flying around now and wouldn't nap this afternoon but am glad he is on the mend. Nice to do nothing Every now and again. mands and other first time mums - a piece of advice. I wish I hadn't done so much in first 6/8 weeks. Was so dying to get out that I headed off at 2 weeks when really I should have enjoying being at home more and relaxing. Will never get that chance again.

On nappy bags I think the purposely made are probably most useful but no reason not to buy a roomy bag and something like this:

www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk/sp+skip-hop-mini-changers-in-baby-changing-bags-and-mats+A6735

Actually this is lovely and could be a good twin one!!

www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk/sp+city-tote-changing-bag-in-baby-changing-bags-and-mats+B9955

Would agree with em on what you take now they are older. I bought one of these for DSs lunch, drinks, bibs etc:

www.skiphop.com/product/zoolunchies.html

Em. I love the Aden and anais stuff too. Would like to buy a few of their nice stuff too for DS2.

Still no sign of maternity stuff. So bloody annoying. Will have to get DH to look in the places I can't reach tonight. Also has the hospital stuff I have which would be nice to locate.

Hope everyone is having a lovely day.

OC x

I've not used the changing bag since dd3 was about 9 months, just have a big handbag and added a nappy/wipes then change of trousers & knickers. Am currently using a rucksack as I'm more balance on crutches but it's not as easy to use.

Btw - with baby bags etc worth keeping eyes peeled for pre Christmas discount events and post christmas sales. Partic if you like anything the department stores sell.

I haven't bothered with a nappy bag since ds1. I just use a melobaby nappy wallet which is big enough for spare nappies, wipes and change of clothes & Muslins when they are tiny, it fits in the basket of the pram. I then just use my normal handbag. Juice cups & snacks go under the buggy too & I don't tend to carry anything else around with me. I had a ski hop one when ds1 was small but I just found I was carrying around loads of unnecessary stuff so stopped.

Hope everyone is well. I am sat in the dark watching ds1 play tennis (court is floodlit). It's freezing!!!

pink you are a good mum!!

Just been perusing the changing bag reviews on mumsnet and it would seem the boots changing bag has been shrunk from the original version they made a couple of years ago!!!

Went to Asda earlier for my blood test. Fx for positive result!! Bought the cutest little pink babygro when I was there! Back home now and curled up on the sofa under a blanket with ds. Have a sore throat but I am not allowed to get a cold!!! or slapped cheek

Absolutely commited pink!

Your duvet day sounds lovely oc really hope ds is a smuggler, dd is a jumper arounder - usually on me!

Our changing bag is pretty much the back passenger footwell of our car, with a couple of nappies, wipes and snacks shoved into my handbag when I walk anywhere! Having said that I did buy a nearly new one at the nct sale, literally doesn't seem used at all. Got it because I liked the design, I paid .£10 for it which I thought was a lot at the time, but then saw it on internet priced at £80, so bargin :)

Just going to have a little nap now while dh and dd play downstairs. Feels quite luxurious!

Bought my first thing for baby today. Dd3 picked up a purple/blue hooded towel in a shop for £2.99.

Evening all,

Em dd1 had slapped cheek but it was more like a clustered rash on both cheeks than rosey cheeks iykwim.

Changing bags, I got the boots one it does look small lots of compartments but tbh I never took loads of stuff out with me, no need,
Anyway flowery if you re register your details in boots they will send you another coupon, I was already a member but I just updated and they sent it out to me, same for sil.

Not sure what way baby is can feel everything really low and at scan that was head and hands so unless it has its feet down there too.

Ood tandem feeding is that toddler and baby, sounds tricky,

Just welled up at the John Lewis Christmas ad. I heart that snowman...

Hi guys, sorry been a bit quiet again, such a busy term this term for me! Baby is currently sitting in the most awkward position and it's bloody sore. 24 weeks tomorrow and the movements are so frequent now. DH can feel them from the outside and sometimes you can even see them. I was woken up by the wriggling at about 4am. Then DS decided to join the party and came through to our bedroom whimpering and coughing and spluttering. He's still full of the cold, that's been a good 3 weeks now, poor wee sod. Mine's cleared up, but DH suffering too, still. So I'm pretty tired, as cuddled DS for a couple of hours when he came to our room as he was just so sad - "mummy and daddy please don't put me in my own bed". Poor toot! Right, have 4 more reports to write and then I can relax for a bit... Hope you're all well :)

Today I bought bump friendly PJs. How have I lasted this long without them?! Oh comfort. Oh snuggly warmth. Oh supportive bump band and voluminous pj top of loveliness. (sigh)

Morning ladies!

Quick Q first: has anyone in the group sent me a friend request on FB? I've three requests from women I don't know over the past week so if you have please just PM me on here and I'll be able to put two and two together!

I've had a few disturbing anxiety dreams lately, too, Tramp, but I guess it's only understandable with the universe shift that lies ahead I still have plenty of moments of wakeful panic too, but my DH is great, so calm. He just says, 'Nah, it'll be fine' and I know that it will Hurrah for new PJs!

Well, hips a lot better this week owing to no jaunting about the South East. Today, however, off to Reading so am expecting to ache over weekend. I am going to leave the archives early and go shopping, though ? but don't get too excited as the main thing on my list is a pack of M&S size 20 big pants. Oh yes. I've gone from a 12 to a 20 in the space of a couple of months!

Had a really good work day yesterday. Actually got some writing done! I'm only on low dose thyroxine but am sure I have more energy already. Making the most of it!

October, I'm sorry but I've been finding your maternity clothes hunt a tiny bit funny! I know it's so frustrating when you can't find stuff you know you've put away somewhere safe ? it makes me smile with recognition! Thanks for the first-time-mums advice - I intend to follow it! I like the fact the babies will come in winter (mid-Feb, prob) as we can hibernate a little bit and start emerging in the spring!

Look forward to hearing any hints and tips and good books on tandem feeding Ood! Dunno if I will be able to cope with bfeeding. I really want it to work out but my nipples are a bit ? erm ? flimsy and they very much like to be left to their alone. I hope they toughen up with two babies on the way! Yikes.

Flowery sounds like the marking is really enjoyable for you - sorry to be a downer; it's just that I'm not an enthusiastic marker myself! Good to keep on bits of work that can keep the money in during maternity leave; that's why I'm keeping on with the Open Univ teaching. Good tip re airing cot mattresses. Once we get cot up and measure what we need (it's a loan from SiL) then we'll invest. Thanks all for good tips on where to get them from.

Zoey interesting about big infection but you're not feeling it. Is the infection something to do with why you're prone to giving birth early? Sorry to be dim! Hope the antibiotics kick in really soon, my dear.

To those who have babies in awkward positions, I think I must have too! Yesterday I got an awful lots of twinges inside and low down. Maybe on my bladder? Not sure, but it was weird and not very nice!! Babies are still really active. DH felt them almost running a hand or foot against my upper belly last night! It's quite sensitive around there, and especially around the belly button. Wishing I had worked harder on developing some muscles there now!

TGIF!

Mands. Delighted to entertain. Still not found anything. Another day in the squashy jeans. Will have to just get more stuff next week if it doesn't appear. Realise it has all the lovely newborn baby stuff I got as well so hopefully it will turn up v soon.

Getting hair cut on Wednesday. My hair has totally changed texture in the last 18 months and now is a mop. Hopefully will get a cut I like as wasn't happy the last time!

Sounds like the babies are lovely and active. That is great.

Off to mums and babies music and then a stroll around the shops with a friend.

Anyone thought about Christmas presents yet? Have DH sorted I think. He is so hard to buy for but rally wants Bose earphones. Ridiculous but if that is what he wants so be it! There is a beautiful adult only spa hotel near us that are having a special on at the moment I was thinking of asking for a voucher and going with a couple f girl friends before baby is born. Bliss!

Has anyone been following the abortion controversy in Ireland? Absolutely tragic. Hopefully the politicians will now finally pass the appropriate legislation that we voted for years ago.

Happy Friday all.

OC x

Morning all, I'm having a duvet day-ish today as frankly I'm too tired to function properly and have probably been overdoing it for the past few weeks. I have two big deadlines for work Monday so timing is awful but have hit the wall and, after writing this, I'm going to breakfast then sleep for an hour before contemplating turning on work laptop!

anyone else having slepless nights? - last night I was awoken every hour or so by being kicked from within, my pj bottoms seemed to be too tight so off they came, I had serious trapped wind type pains in my lower abdomen, baby bounced on my bladder making toilet trips somewhat frequent, my rib cage felt like it had two feet shoved into it and could explode at any minute, acid reflux meant lying down impossible but rib pain made elevation equally difficult. Eventually managed to get the pillows, cat and Dh into helpful positions where I could sleep only to wake up to dh laughing as bump repeatedly 'kicked his arse' finally saw the funny side of it. ballet baby was certainly doing some plies and arabesques overnight! I thought this was a third trimester thing so surprised. Naive, moi?

How are you all sleeping at the mo?

tramp where did you get your supportive yet comfy pjs of joy? I am going to bite the bullet and invest tout suite.
october good luck in your maternity clothes search, cannot tell you how many things Dh has recently found in odd corners that I'd put 'in a safe place'. Glad am not the only one.

Can't think so back to sleep for me!

Manda - beware of M&S sizing! They are pretty weird when it comes to pants. From everywhere else I wear size 20, but M&S I fit a 16.

Dameflamingo - I sleep terribly these days. Takes forever (ie about two hours) to get comfy and persuade my bladder that it does not in fact need emptying yet again. Cats have a tendency to go mental in the small hours of the morning and are very good at waking me just as I'm drifting off. And then it's a rarity to manage more than three hours asleep before it's bladder time yet again. I'm spending a good ten hours in bed each night, but only sleeping for about six of them. Good practice, I suppose!

Maternity clothes are still giving me grief. My jeans are a bit long, so I wanted some shorter ones for visiting the man's father in a couple of weeks (would like him to approve of me so not looking like a tramp would be helpful). Next completely sold out of bootcut maternity jeans in my size with the shorter leg length. Argh! So found some black trousers in right size, cut and length, only to be faced with the same old palaver about my house apparently not existing. So I have to drag my poor disintegrating pelvis into town to collect them on Sunday. Not fun!

In better news, we're at the midwife in half an hour. Looking forward to hearing the heartbeat again, it's always fun.

Ah stormy I sympathise re: short leg lengths, notoriously difficult to find when you need 'em. Good luck at midwife... How many weeks? I hear the 25 week appt is the first bump measure one ( got mine next week -expecting a Mary Poppins style tape measure)

I have never had this infection before Amanda but apparently in its own right it can cause prem delivery which was not good news yesterday and I was rather stressed out to be honest - the doctor said it measured 10+ on the scale which is realy bad but they can believe I am not in agony with it - trust me I love a good moan so would of been moaning at DH a lot if it hurt The doctor was then going on about the high strength antibiotics the hospital said to give (2 different types) I told him straight the risk of not taking them and having baby now was ALOT worse than the risk of taking them at this point - he looked shocked by my bluntness but I know the facts and 23+1 just isnt enough for baby I need to reach 25 to stand a chance (even 24 aint that great).

This morning I am full of head cold but thats just the office germ that has done its rounds and got back to me which sucks - but I figure the amount of antibiotics i am now on will sort that soon!

GOing to watch Twilight tonight and mum has boys overnight - asked DH where he wanted to go for dinner for which he replied 'Macdonalds' classy!!!

Tramp where did you get you pjs from? I am thinking about trying to find a maternity all in one so I can look like a telly tubby, lol!

zoey if you're going for the all in one option I'd recommend a kangaroo style one. That way you have your very own baby roo in there ;)