Sorry for my blog absence. I am a bit busier during this pregnancy.
Since I last wrote I have crossed over into "viability" land which means that if my baby was born today, it would have a very good chance of surviving (but at this point would need a lot of help to make that happen). It's an interesting milestone to hit.
In more fun news, I'm happy to report that that Babymoon we booked a while back that felt so far away actually begins TOMORROW! I'm nervous about how we will do in the cold but I am really excited about relaxing in the hotel. Next time I'll post pictures!
I will try to think of more to share soon.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Week 23 update
This pregnancy is whizzing by. Although I try to think about it and prepare when I can, I have to admit that I am too busy with work and Juju and life in general to give it much thought. I really can't believe that it still hasn't sunk in. I have so few feelings about this little person that is coming. I know that will change; I just wonder when.
I continue to be hormonal though, don't worry. The other night I woke up around 2:30 AM for no reason and couldn't fall back asleep. After trying for a while I started to watch "More of the Business of Being Born" on Netflix. I had seen something on TV about it so I decided to check it out. It is actually 4 mini-documentaries the filmmakers did after the original since there was so much buzz from the film and people wanting more. I watched two of the four and it was more of the kind of stuff they got into in the film about what birth is like in the US and they interviewed a bunch of celebrities about the glories of home birth (if I lived in Cindy Crawford or Christy Turlington's house I'd probably want to give birth there too. . .). The stories were inspiring but I still think I'm going to deliver in a hospital this time around.
It got me excited and scared about the birth but mostly again made me really emotional about Juju and when she was born (remember a few weeks ago when I burst into tears right in her face?). It's a good thing this was the middle of the night and she was asleep so she couldn't see me all weepy and sentimental. But that didn't stop me from climbing into her twin sized bed with her and snuggling with her as she slept! I think she is at her most beautiful when she is asleep and it was so peaceful cozying up next to her and stroking her hair while she slept. It took a while but I actually fell asleep with her. Then I woke up to her tossing and turning and kicking me and I retreated back to my room. I'm trying to cherish these moments with her both as an only child but also just as a child at all. I know at some point she won't be across the hall anymore to let me sneak in and snuggle with her.
I went to the chiropractor yesterday but didn't feel much different when I left, I guess because I haven't really had any back pain yet. I don't know if that is attributable to the fact that I have been going to the chiropractor throughout the pregnancy or if I am just getting lucky.
I continue to read a whole lot of pregnancy and birth books and am attracted to hypnobirthing at the moment. No, that does not mean I am going to get hypnotized while giving birth, but rather I'm going to try to learn to focus and get through labor without fearing the inevitable discomfort that comes with giving birth. I'll let you know how that goes. . .
I also just picked up one of Ina Mae Gaskin's books at the library. The folks at the LA Public Library have a whole lot of information about what kind of pregnancy and birth I want to have.
I continue to be hormonal though, don't worry. The other night I woke up around 2:30 AM for no reason and couldn't fall back asleep. After trying for a while I started to watch "More of the Business of Being Born" on Netflix. I had seen something on TV about it so I decided to check it out. It is actually 4 mini-documentaries the filmmakers did after the original since there was so much buzz from the film and people wanting more. I watched two of the four and it was more of the kind of stuff they got into in the film about what birth is like in the US and they interviewed a bunch of celebrities about the glories of home birth (if I lived in Cindy Crawford or Christy Turlington's house I'd probably want to give birth there too. . .). The stories were inspiring but I still think I'm going to deliver in a hospital this time around.
It got me excited and scared about the birth but mostly again made me really emotional about Juju and when she was born (remember a few weeks ago when I burst into tears right in her face?). It's a good thing this was the middle of the night and she was asleep so she couldn't see me all weepy and sentimental. But that didn't stop me from climbing into her twin sized bed with her and snuggling with her as she slept! I think she is at her most beautiful when she is asleep and it was so peaceful cozying up next to her and stroking her hair while she slept. It took a while but I actually fell asleep with her. Then I woke up to her tossing and turning and kicking me and I retreated back to my room. I'm trying to cherish these moments with her both as an only child but also just as a child at all. I know at some point she won't be across the hall anymore to let me sneak in and snuggle with her.
I went to the chiropractor yesterday but didn't feel much different when I left, I guess because I haven't really had any back pain yet. I don't know if that is attributable to the fact that I have been going to the chiropractor throughout the pregnancy or if I am just getting lucky.
I continue to read a whole lot of pregnancy and birth books and am attracted to hypnobirthing at the moment. No, that does not mean I am going to get hypnotized while giving birth, but rather I'm going to try to learn to focus and get through labor without fearing the inevitable discomfort that comes with giving birth. I'll let you know how that goes. . .
I also just picked up one of Ina Mae Gaskin's books at the library. The folks at the LA Public Library have a whole lot of information about what kind of pregnancy and birth I want to have.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Week 22 update
I'm posting this late because yesterday was Yom Kippur and I was trying to stay offline. Things are going well. I still feel pretty good though I had a really busy day on Monday and my back was a mess that evening. It was a real reminder that I was pregnant as I often forget about the baby. I missed prenatal yoga yesterday due to the holiday so I tried to do some of the poses at home today. I actually felt the baby move while I was doing some of the positions which was a funny feeling. I go to the chiropractor next week (I am trying to go once a month) and looking forward to feeling good when I leave. It really has been quite helpful. I have been having heartburn and still pee a lot. Otherwise most things are the same.
I visited my friend Amy today; she had a baby three weeks ago. Her daughter is adorable and seemed pretty "easy" for the one and a half hours I spent there. It still doesn't feel real to me. Amy also has an older child Juju's age so I am really looking forward to her wisdom on this topic.
I keep thinking I should try acupuncture. I hear it helps pregnant women although I don't have any real problems yet so I am not sure it's worth it to me.
I watched a Ricki Lake show where she revisited the movie the Business of Being Born and every time they showed images of women giving birth I got teary-eyed again. My hormones must still be raging.
I apologize if these updates are boring. There isn't much to report. I have another appointment in two weeks and I have to do the gestational diabetes screen. I hope I don't have it.
I visited my friend Amy today; she had a baby three weeks ago. Her daughter is adorable and seemed pretty "easy" for the one and a half hours I spent there. It still doesn't feel real to me. Amy also has an older child Juju's age so I am really looking forward to her wisdom on this topic.
I keep thinking I should try acupuncture. I hear it helps pregnant women although I don't have any real problems yet so I am not sure it's worth it to me.
I watched a Ricki Lake show where she revisited the movie the Business of Being Born and every time they showed images of women giving birth I got teary-eyed again. My hormones must still be raging.
I apologize if these updates are boring. There isn't much to report. I have another appointment in two weeks and I have to do the gestational diabetes screen. I hope I don't have it.
Friday, September 21, 2012
Pregnancy brain
Pregnancy brain has been catching up with me and I don't like it one bit. Last week I lost my iPhone! I use that gadget about 100 times a day and always know where it is but somehow I left it at Whole Foods. I was so surprised and grateful that another shopper turned it in to customer service. (Security tip: I was able to take possession of my iPhone because it's password protected. Once I unlocked it they knew it was mine - just one of the many reasons you should password protect your phone!!).
Then, the very next day, I left my keys at Juju's school. Fortunately we needed them to drive home so they were only gone about 10 minutes and were similarly turned in to the security desk.
And of course the most important thing I forgot was to update this blog, especially last week when we went for our anatomical scan and the Dr. told Juju she was getting a baby. . . . . . .sister! To be honest, I think one of the reasons I neglected to update this blog was also because nobody seemed particularly shocked by this news. I had a strong feeling from the start that I would be having a girl and the doctor guessed at our 12 week scan that we'd be having another daughter. And of course Juju told me it was a girl from day one. So no one was really impressed with the news, it just felt like he was telling us something we already knew. I really don't care either way; I just hope for a healthy child.
I continue to go to prenatal yoga and I even took a mommy and me belly dancing class with Juju yesterday. The instructor told me she used to teach bellydancing at a hospital in NY where they recommend it to women to aid in their deliveries. Who knew.
I feel the baby move more and more each day but otherwise life really does seem the same. I'm so grateful that I feel really good. My only complaints are that I get tired from time to time.
Juju has changed the baby's name once again. Her little sister-to-be is now known as "Silly Goose Goose."
Then, the very next day, I left my keys at Juju's school. Fortunately we needed them to drive home so they were only gone about 10 minutes and were similarly turned in to the security desk.
And of course the most important thing I forgot was to update this blog, especially last week when we went for our anatomical scan and the Dr. told Juju she was getting a baby. . . . . . .sister! To be honest, I think one of the reasons I neglected to update this blog was also because nobody seemed particularly shocked by this news. I had a strong feeling from the start that I would be having a girl and the doctor guessed at our 12 week scan that we'd be having another daughter. And of course Juju told me it was a girl from day one. So no one was really impressed with the news, it just felt like he was telling us something we already knew. I really don't care either way; I just hope for a healthy child.
I continue to go to prenatal yoga and I even took a mommy and me belly dancing class with Juju yesterday. The instructor told me she used to teach bellydancing at a hospital in NY where they recommend it to women to aid in their deliveries. Who knew.
I feel the baby move more and more each day but otherwise life really does seem the same. I'm so grateful that I feel really good. My only complaints are that I get tired from time to time.
Juju has changed the baby's name once again. Her little sister-to-be is now known as "Silly Goose Goose."
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Half-way home
Here is the week 20 update. This means I am halfway through my pregnancy (though given my past history I will likely go past 40 weeks).
I feel good. I am not as tired anymore (I think this is due to upping my iron intake) and I don't feel that uncomfortable. I find that I lose my breath more easily (this morning I took a flight of stairs at Juju's school that I normally take and had trouble talking when I got to the top!). I also still need to pee a lot. I drink a lot of water but I thought the peeing all the time was only at the beginning and end of the pregnancy. I am getting to know lots of new restrooms around town.
On Friday I have two appointments. One is the regular 20 week check with my OB, the other is for the 20 week anatomy scan with my perinatologist. We made the appointment before school so Juju can come with us. My plan is to have Dr. Silverman tell Julian the sex and she can tell us. She insists it's a girl (and I think she is right) so I think finding out now, at week 20 will be better than waiting until week 40. In case she's wrong, we can start preparing her now for the idea of a little brother.
This pregnancy still doesn't feel real. Perhaps because it's so early, and because I am still 4 weeks shy of the important 24 week mark when the fetus is viable. I wonder when it will all sink in.
Lastly, I forgot to give a shout-out to my friend Dina who had a little girl about two weeks ago!
I feel good. I am not as tired anymore (I think this is due to upping my iron intake) and I don't feel that uncomfortable. I find that I lose my breath more easily (this morning I took a flight of stairs at Juju's school that I normally take and had trouble talking when I got to the top!). I also still need to pee a lot. I drink a lot of water but I thought the peeing all the time was only at the beginning and end of the pregnancy. I am getting to know lots of new restrooms around town.
On Friday I have two appointments. One is the regular 20 week check with my OB, the other is for the 20 week anatomy scan with my perinatologist. We made the appointment before school so Juju can come with us. My plan is to have Dr. Silverman tell Julian the sex and she can tell us. She insists it's a girl (and I think she is right) so I think finding out now, at week 20 will be better than waiting until week 40. In case she's wrong, we can start preparing her now for the idea of a little brother.
This pregnancy still doesn't feel real. Perhaps because it's so early, and because I am still 4 weeks shy of the important 24 week mark when the fetus is viable. I wonder when it will all sink in.
Lastly, I forgot to give a shout-out to my friend Dina who had a little girl about two weeks ago!
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Week 19 update
It's week 19. This pregnancy is moving really fast. Next week will mark the halfway point. I can't believe it. So far I have been feeling good. My only problem is that I have been getting headaches. It might have something to do with the anemia that I am working on getting rid of. I should probably also be better about snacking in between meals to avoid low blood sugar which can also trigger a headache. I know it's not dehydration because I drink a ton of water (which means I also pee a lot - I'm getting to know many bathrooms around town intimately).
Other than that there isn't too much to report. We went through a bunch of boxes in the garage yesterday, and I snuck a peek at a box of baby clothing I saved from when Juju was born. Everything is so summery! (Juju was born in July). I hope I will be able to use some of it for Pumpkin Pickle Mushroom (that is the updated name Juju has given this child-to-be) due in the winter. But it's too early to think about that now. I also thought I would be more emotional looking over baby clothes but I really wasn't. Maybe I need a few more months for that.
It's so easy to forget about your pregnancy when you have a 4 year old running around getting ready for her first day of Pre-K next week!
Other than that there isn't too much to report. We went through a bunch of boxes in the garage yesterday, and I snuck a peek at a box of baby clothing I saved from when Juju was born. Everything is so summery! (Juju was born in July). I hope I will be able to use some of it for Pumpkin Pickle Mushroom (that is the updated name Juju has given this child-to-be) due in the winter. But it's too early to think about that now. I also thought I would be more emotional looking over baby clothes but I really wasn't. Maybe I need a few more months for that.
It's so easy to forget about your pregnancy when you have a 4 year old running around getting ready for her first day of Pre-K next week!
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Almost 18 week update
Technically I'm 18 weeks tomorrow but I had time so I'm doing the update today. I continue to not think about this pregnancy very much although I most certainly have a bump so I'm reminded every morning when I get dressed that things aren't totally normal.
I spoke to my doctor yesterday (can I just say again how much I love her?!) and learned that while most of my bloodwork is normal, I am anemic and slightly Vitamin D deficient. The anemia isn't a total shock, I have felt really tired lately and have been getting headaches and I was anemic with Juju. The Vitamin D does surprise me because I have spent a lot of time in a pool in direct sunshine this summer. I do however cover myself in sunblock which I suspect has something to do with me not being able to absorb Vitamin D as well. So, in addition to prenatal vitamins and flax seed oil pills I am now taking an iron pill and Vitamin D gummies. Fingers crossed I can remember all of those pills each day. I'm also trying to eat more of an iron-rich diet.
I'm surprised by how little I care about the sex of this baby. With Juju I really really wanted a girl. I didn't grow up with brothers so the idea of a boy was foreign to me. And maybe it was easier for me to imagine a little kid who looked like me. I assumed I would always feel this way but if I am being completely honest with myself, I really don't care. I just want a healthy baby, boy or girl. I can't believe I'm saying it but I will be happy if it's a boy, I swear. Juju on the other hand is totally convinced that it's a girl (her rationale is "it's a girl because I'm a girl. And we need to wear the same clothes and share things.") She told me it was a girl the day I confirmed to her that I am pregnant and she has no problem telling other people this statement of fact either. For some reason I keep thinking it's a girl too. While I would love for this to remain a mystery until I deliver, I think for Julian's sake we will find out so she can get used to the idea (not that she has any doubt in her mind at the moment). We will be taking her to my 20 week appointment for the advanced ultrasound and hoping the doctor can give her the news she wants to hear. . .
I spoke to my doctor yesterday (can I just say again how much I love her?!) and learned that while most of my bloodwork is normal, I am anemic and slightly Vitamin D deficient. The anemia isn't a total shock, I have felt really tired lately and have been getting headaches and I was anemic with Juju. The Vitamin D does surprise me because I have spent a lot of time in a pool in direct sunshine this summer. I do however cover myself in sunblock which I suspect has something to do with me not being able to absorb Vitamin D as well. So, in addition to prenatal vitamins and flax seed oil pills I am now taking an iron pill and Vitamin D gummies. Fingers crossed I can remember all of those pills each day. I'm also trying to eat more of an iron-rich diet.
I'm surprised by how little I care about the sex of this baby. With Juju I really really wanted a girl. I didn't grow up with brothers so the idea of a boy was foreign to me. And maybe it was easier for me to imagine a little kid who looked like me. I assumed I would always feel this way but if I am being completely honest with myself, I really don't care. I just want a healthy baby, boy or girl. I can't believe I'm saying it but I will be happy if it's a boy, I swear. Juju on the other hand is totally convinced that it's a girl (her rationale is "it's a girl because I'm a girl. And we need to wear the same clothes and share things.") She told me it was a girl the day I confirmed to her that I am pregnant and she has no problem telling other people this statement of fact either. For some reason I keep thinking it's a girl too. While I would love for this to remain a mystery until I deliver, I think for Julian's sake we will find out so she can get used to the idea (not that she has any doubt in her mind at the moment). We will be taking her to my 20 week appointment for the advanced ultrasound and hoping the doctor can give her the news she wants to hear. . .
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Week 17 update
This is the week I almost forgot I was pregnant. If I didn't have the "My Pregnancy" app on my iPhone to remind me that I was 17 weeks today I wouldn't have remembered to post here! The app is actually pretty lame but did come in handy today.
There is not a ton to report. I feel some weird feelings in my tummy which is probably the baby but they aren't the fun pokes or movement I felt a few weeks ago.
Juju has changed the baby's name. I found this out when she started telling people that the baby's name is Pickle. She told me she likes that name better than Pumpkin. Pickle it is. This girl has food on her mind 24/7.
My hormones are still funny - I know this because both my body wash and deodorant are failing me today. Mental note: never hug a pregnant woman in the summer.
I couldn't go to prenatal yoga today. I really missed it. I've been doing some swimming which is a fun exercise to do while you're pregnant, but it's not the same. I miss the zen-like atmosphere of the yoga studio.
I hope to have more updates to report soon! Oh, a big shout out to my friend Julia who gave birth to a baby boy yesterday!
There is not a ton to report. I feel some weird feelings in my tummy which is probably the baby but they aren't the fun pokes or movement I felt a few weeks ago.
Juju has changed the baby's name. I found this out when she started telling people that the baby's name is Pickle. She told me she likes that name better than Pumpkin. Pickle it is. This girl has food on her mind 24/7.
My hormones are still funny - I know this because both my body wash and deodorant are failing me today. Mental note: never hug a pregnant woman in the summer.
I couldn't go to prenatal yoga today. I really missed it. I've been doing some swimming which is a fun exercise to do while you're pregnant, but it's not the same. I miss the zen-like atmosphere of the yoga studio.
I hope to have more updates to report soon! Oh, a big shout out to my friend Julia who gave birth to a baby boy yesterday!
Monday, August 20, 2012
Quick update
I failed to post a week 16 update. Sorry about that. My sincerest apologies to the 3 people who read this blog!
I'm tired so this will be quick. I went to prenatal yoga last week and kept up my promise to do it every week but unfortunately this Wednesday I can't go due to a dental appointment I'm not able to change :(
I met my doctor last Tuesday and I LOVE HER. I am so happy. I was a little nervous switching doctors midcourse and of course kind of scared to commit to someone I had never met but all of that went away when she greeted me. She is so warm and friendly that I felt totally comfortable with her. I actually felt like she is someone I would want to be friends with.
So far I feel like I'm in good hands! She did an ultrasound and things looked good but even if I wanted to know the sex (and I'm not 100% sure I do) the Pumpkin was not in the correct position to give any hints.
My next visit is at 20 weeks. I will try to update again on Wednesday when I will be 17 weeks. Thanks for reading!
I'm tired so this will be quick. I went to prenatal yoga last week and kept up my promise to do it every week but unfortunately this Wednesday I can't go due to a dental appointment I'm not able to change :(
I met my doctor last Tuesday and I LOVE HER. I am so happy. I was a little nervous switching doctors midcourse and of course kind of scared to commit to someone I had never met but all of that went away when she greeted me. She is so warm and friendly that I felt totally comfortable with her. I actually felt like she is someone I would want to be friends with.
So far I feel like I'm in good hands! She did an ultrasound and things looked good but even if I wanted to know the sex (and I'm not 100% sure I do) the Pumpkin was not in the correct position to give any hints.
My next visit is at 20 weeks. I will try to update again on Wednesday when I will be 17 weeks. Thanks for reading!
Monday, August 13, 2012
Hormone-o-rama
I have been feeling good this pregnancy but the one thing I have noticed that's different for me these days is that I can't help myself from crying at the littlest (and not so littlest) things. And I don't just cry a little in the way I might have in the past at a sad movie or a close friend's wedding, I am actually finding myself bawling, tears, runny nose and all and I can't seem to stop it until I let it all out. I think I am freaking Jonathan out just a little bit.
I noticed that it started when my friend Amy (who is also pregnant so she did warn me ) sent me a link to a blog post from a mom about her birth. She was sending it to me because the post talked about how this woman had a party during her delivery, complete with friends, champagne and party favors which we both thought was kind of amazing. But, the post also included the story of how the mom's second child brought a surprise she wasn't expecting. (I don't want to give too many details in case you decide to read the post yourself. It's quite beautiful, so you should, but remember to have some tissues handy, especially if you are pregnant!). The unexpected outcome of the birth was emotional but I caught myself really sobbing at all of the references to the first child and how when the mom went into labor she knew it was the last time she would be the mom to an only child, how her daughter's life would be forever changed by having to share her mom with someone else, etc. It pulled on some strong emotional chords I didn't even know were there.
Two days later, I had a horrible stomachache (which turned out to be food poisoning!!) so I retreated to my bed and decided to watch something on my iPad. I can't explain why I didn't pick something light but I ended up watching "The Business of Being Born." (Side note, this was a real technological reality check for me - 4.5 years ago I had to go to an actual movie theater to watch this movie when it was in wide release. Now I can dial it up whenever I want through Netflix and watch it in my pajamas curled up in my bed with my iPad. That's pretty amazing).
My movie-watching experience was much more emotional this time around than it was when I saw it while pregnant the first time. It reminded me of Juju's birth, it reminded me of what's coming up for me in a few months, and it was pretty powerful to hear so many women and couples talk about their varied birth experiences. I had tears in my eyes for a few of the stories but then when Jonathan and Juju walked into the bedroom towards the end of the film, I lost it! I was sobbing and clutching Juju and telling her how much I love her and how the day she was born was the best day of my life and how everything changed, yadda, yadda, yadda. She was totally confused and couldn't understand why I was crying yet telling her I was happy. Jonathan ushered her out of the room so I could get a hold of myself. I am actually laughing as I type this, it was pretty funny but in the moment I had absolutely no control of my emotions. When I returned to greet them in the kitchen with a smile (and no tears) a few minutes later, Juju informed me that "you're not allowed to cry when you are happy." I'll try to work on that. . .
I finally meet my OB tomorrow. It's funny that I've been pregnant for almost 16 weeks and haven't even seen the person who is going to delivery my baby yet. I have high hopes for her, while she is an MD, she also trained as a doula and with a midwife before going to medical school so I think she is a great blend of what I'm looking for. Fingers crossed.
I noticed that it started when my friend Amy (who is also pregnant so she did warn me ) sent me a link to a blog post from a mom about her birth. She was sending it to me because the post talked about how this woman had a party during her delivery, complete with friends, champagne and party favors which we both thought was kind of amazing. But, the post also included the story of how the mom's second child brought a surprise she wasn't expecting. (I don't want to give too many details in case you decide to read the post yourself. It's quite beautiful, so you should, but remember to have some tissues handy, especially if you are pregnant!). The unexpected outcome of the birth was emotional but I caught myself really sobbing at all of the references to the first child and how when the mom went into labor she knew it was the last time she would be the mom to an only child, how her daughter's life would be forever changed by having to share her mom with someone else, etc. It pulled on some strong emotional chords I didn't even know were there.
Two days later, I had a horrible stomachache (which turned out to be food poisoning!!) so I retreated to my bed and decided to watch something on my iPad. I can't explain why I didn't pick something light but I ended up watching "The Business of Being Born." (Side note, this was a real technological reality check for me - 4.5 years ago I had to go to an actual movie theater to watch this movie when it was in wide release. Now I can dial it up whenever I want through Netflix and watch it in my pajamas curled up in my bed with my iPad. That's pretty amazing).
My movie-watching experience was much more emotional this time around than it was when I saw it while pregnant the first time. It reminded me of Juju's birth, it reminded me of what's coming up for me in a few months, and it was pretty powerful to hear so many women and couples talk about their varied birth experiences. I had tears in my eyes for a few of the stories but then when Jonathan and Juju walked into the bedroom towards the end of the film, I lost it! I was sobbing and clutching Juju and telling her how much I love her and how the day she was born was the best day of my life and how everything changed, yadda, yadda, yadda. She was totally confused and couldn't understand why I was crying yet telling her I was happy. Jonathan ushered her out of the room so I could get a hold of myself. I am actually laughing as I type this, it was pretty funny but in the moment I had absolutely no control of my emotions. When I returned to greet them in the kitchen with a smile (and no tears) a few minutes later, Juju informed me that "you're not allowed to cry when you are happy." I'll try to work on that. . .
I finally meet my OB tomorrow. It's funny that I've been pregnant for almost 16 weeks and haven't even seen the person who is going to delivery my baby yet. I have high hopes for her, while she is an MD, she also trained as a doula and with a midwife before going to medical school so I think she is a great blend of what I'm looking for. Fingers crossed.
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Babymoon booked!
Jonathan and I have been talking about going on a Babymoon since the day we found out I was pregnant. It's funny that we need the excuse of a pregnancy to plan our own vacation but we really never do seem to get away without Juju in tow. And I guess we're realizing it's now or never since we won't have the chance to get away once the Pumpkin arrives.
After getting off a 15.5+ hour flight from Tel Aviv in June (I was about 8 weeks at the time), I announced that I do not want to get back on a plane for a LOOOONG time. I started brainstorming ideas about where we could babymoon near home but in the end I decided I was willing to take an airplane as long as it was a quick trip.
Jonathan has been traveling every week for work since about March so he has been racking up points and status on both Southwest Airlines and with Starwood Hotels. I have been stalking the Starwood website for ideas and there are really so many options, the same goes for destinations on Southwest. When your vacation is almost totally free, save for meals and incidentals when you're there, the possibilities really are endless!
To help narrow things down I decided that I had two priorities (luckily Jonathan was willing to go along with almost anything I wanted). They were: 1) to stay in a really nice hotel since I won't be able to do much and want to just relax in a nice room and enjoy the hotel's grounds and 2) to go somewhere semi-remote and really different from LA. I don't want the pressure of visiting a city and feeling like I have to pack a whole lot in to my vacation. The idea of going to San Francisco and Seattle sounded appealing to me but since I've already been to both and would feel like I wanted to cover a lot of ground while I was there, I nixed those cities. One night a few weeks ago when I couldn't sleep I started watching the 80s comedy "The Great Outdoors" which made me want to go somewhere we would be able to connect with nature a bit. I just want to relax and look out the window at a pretty view of trees and sky.
Last night we hastily made a decision and booked our trip. We've never booked anything so quickly but I think it's a great choice and I'm really excited about it!! This winter we are headed to Deer Valley/Park City, Utah and we are staying at the amazing St. Regis. The photos and reviews online are incredible and I'm particularly excited about the fact that in a few weeks Jonathan will become a Platinum Starwood Preferred Guest which means not only will they have to upgrade us as they do now, but they will have to upgrade us to the nicest room they have available (truthfully, even their standard room is beautiful so I don't think we'll be disappointed) and since the most important thing to me about this trip is the room I am freaking out with excitement. I am looking forward to sleeping in (if my belly will let me), using the pool, reading books and magazines, eating great food and sipping hot cocoa. I'm totally freaked that I don't have the right clothes for a Utah winter (especially when I'll be in my 3rd trimester of pregnancy) but I'll figure it out. I can't wait!!
After getting off a 15.5+ hour flight from Tel Aviv in June (I was about 8 weeks at the time), I announced that I do not want to get back on a plane for a LOOOONG time. I started brainstorming ideas about where we could babymoon near home but in the end I decided I was willing to take an airplane as long as it was a quick trip.
Jonathan has been traveling every week for work since about March so he has been racking up points and status on both Southwest Airlines and with Starwood Hotels. I have been stalking the Starwood website for ideas and there are really so many options, the same goes for destinations on Southwest. When your vacation is almost totally free, save for meals and incidentals when you're there, the possibilities really are endless!
To help narrow things down I decided that I had two priorities (luckily Jonathan was willing to go along with almost anything I wanted). They were: 1) to stay in a really nice hotel since I won't be able to do much and want to just relax in a nice room and enjoy the hotel's grounds and 2) to go somewhere semi-remote and really different from LA. I don't want the pressure of visiting a city and feeling like I have to pack a whole lot in to my vacation. The idea of going to San Francisco and Seattle sounded appealing to me but since I've already been to both and would feel like I wanted to cover a lot of ground while I was there, I nixed those cities. One night a few weeks ago when I couldn't sleep I started watching the 80s comedy "The Great Outdoors" which made me want to go somewhere we would be able to connect with nature a bit. I just want to relax and look out the window at a pretty view of trees and sky.
Last night we hastily made a decision and booked our trip. We've never booked anything so quickly but I think it's a great choice and I'm really excited about it!! This winter we are headed to Deer Valley/Park City, Utah and we are staying at the amazing St. Regis. The photos and reviews online are incredible and I'm particularly excited about the fact that in a few weeks Jonathan will become a Platinum Starwood Preferred Guest which means not only will they have to upgrade us as they do now, but they will have to upgrade us to the nicest room they have available (truthfully, even their standard room is beautiful so I don't think we'll be disappointed) and since the most important thing to me about this trip is the room I am freaking out with excitement. I am looking forward to sleeping in (if my belly will let me), using the pool, reading books and magazines, eating great food and sipping hot cocoa. I'm totally freaked that I don't have the right clothes for a Utah winter (especially when I'll be in my 3rd trimester of pregnancy) but I'll figure it out. I can't wait!!
Week 15 update
I'm at 15 weeks today and feeling pretty good. I definitely look pregnant and last week I actually felt the baby move for a few seconds. I can't believe how early on I was able to notice but since this is a second pregnancy I know what the feeling is and it most certainly was not gas.
I have continued with weekly prenatal yoga although I should probably try to go another day of the week as I am starting to feel some slight discomfort in some parts of my body and stretching at home doesn't seem to be enough.
Otherwise not much else is going on with this pregnancy and sometimes I forget I am pregnant. Jonathan helped me get two big boxes of maternity clothing out of storage in the garage and it was really exciting to have an instant new wardrobe that didn't cost me anything.
I have continued with weekly prenatal yoga although I should probably try to go another day of the week as I am starting to feel some slight discomfort in some parts of my body and stretching at home doesn't seem to be enough.
Otherwise not much else is going on with this pregnancy and sometimes I forget I am pregnant. Jonathan helped me get two big boxes of maternity clothing out of storage in the garage and it was really exciting to have an instant new wardrobe that didn't cost me anything.
Friday, August 3, 2012
Name (part 2)
I explained to Juju that "Uterus" is not an appropriate name for her future brother or sister. I think she understood. Either way, she has chosen another name that I think is much more fitting. She has dubbed the new baby "Pumpkin." While it's not as clever as "McNugget," I think it will do just fine and she seems very pleased with her choice.
If anyone in this blog audience has any objections (or better suggestions) speak now or forever hold your peace.
If anyone in this blog audience has any objections (or better suggestions) speak now or forever hold your peace.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Week 14 update
Welcome to trimester 2! It's hard to believe this pregnancy is one third over, but I guess that's because I haven't really felt pregnant (or known I was pregnant) for that long.
I kept up my commitment of going to prenatal yoga once a week by hitting the gym this morning and I'm even thinking about going again on Friday even though I am scared of the teacher on Fridays.
In clothing related news, I went to a great warehouse sale with lots of maternity-friendly options last weekend. My friend Rachel and my friend Caroline (who keeps a blog of drop-dead maternity fashions called Pregnant Fashionista) have always raved about the designer Rachel Pally and now I know why. Her clothes are beautiful and are made of the most delicious modal fabric. Even at warehouse sale prices, her stuff is pretty expensive but it's really amazing. I am particularly excited about a caftan I got in two colors that I think will look great even into my third trimester. I can't find the exact dress I bought online but it's just like this one only it's not as long, it falls right below the knee. They are holding another sale this weekend. If you are in LA and want to go, let me know and I will forward you the info.
Aside from dressing my bump I am also in the process of finding and interviewing doulas. Last time I worked with Becky Kopulsky who has since moved out of state. I meet the first doula on Friday to see if we click.
I kept up my commitment of going to prenatal yoga once a week by hitting the gym this morning and I'm even thinking about going again on Friday even though I am scared of the teacher on Fridays.
In clothing related news, I went to a great warehouse sale with lots of maternity-friendly options last weekend. My friend Rachel and my friend Caroline (who keeps a blog of drop-dead maternity fashions called Pregnant Fashionista) have always raved about the designer Rachel Pally and now I know why. Her clothes are beautiful and are made of the most delicious modal fabric. Even at warehouse sale prices, her stuff is pretty expensive but it's really amazing. I am particularly excited about a caftan I got in two colors that I think will look great even into my third trimester. I can't find the exact dress I bought online but it's just like this one only it's not as long, it falls right below the knee. They are holding another sale this weekend. If you are in LA and want to go, let me know and I will forward you the info.
Aside from dressing my bump I am also in the process of finding and interviewing doulas. Last time I worked with Becky Kopulsky who has since moved out of state. I meet the first doula on Friday to see if we click.
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Name
The last time around we called our unborn baby "McNugget." For an explanation on the gross backstory about why we came up with that name see here. I am thanking my lucky stars I have not had such bizarre and repulsive cravings this time around.
Since I haven't had any real cravings yet (except maybe for Chinese food but I think I crave it even when I'm not expecting) nothing has really come to mind as a nickname. Calling this thing #2 just isn't much fun.
I thought Julian might enjoy naming this one so I asked her today: "Juju, what should we call the baby in mommy's belly?" She replied "uterus." Jonathan and I nearly fell off our chairs laughing. I think she said "uterus" because the first time we talked about a baby coming I explained the baby was growing in my uterus which was right next to my belly because I didn't want her to get confused or scared and think she could swallow something and suddenly something would grow in her belly (a la watermelon seeds) but I thought that all went over her head so I backtracked and reverted to using her words of "baby in your belly." I guess it didn't all go over her head.
I'm not going to call this thing uterus so we're open to suggestions. . .
Since I haven't had any real cravings yet (except maybe for Chinese food but I think I crave it even when I'm not expecting) nothing has really come to mind as a nickname. Calling this thing #2 just isn't much fun.
I thought Julian might enjoy naming this one so I asked her today: "Juju, what should we call the baby in mommy's belly?" She replied "uterus." Jonathan and I nearly fell off our chairs laughing. I think she said "uterus" because the first time we talked about a baby coming I explained the baby was growing in my uterus which was right next to my belly because I didn't want her to get confused or scared and think she could swallow something and suddenly something would grow in her belly (a la watermelon seeds) but I thought that all went over her head so I backtracked and reverted to using her words of "baby in your belly." I guess it didn't all go over her head.
I'm not going to call this thing uterus so we're open to suggestions. . .
Odd perk of the job
It has always bothered me that Los Angeles has no independently owned maternity stores. Once upon a time there were a few out there but today my only choices are stores owned by Destination Maternity (A Pea in the Pod, Motherhood Maternity, Mimi Maternity) and one new Rosie Pope outpost in Santa Monica.
I used to think this was normal, until I started a maternity and breastfeeding line of clothing and began selling to boutiques across the country. Did you know that Chicago has something like 7 independently owned stores? And every week a new store seems to be opening in Texas. I just don't get why women out here don't have the same options. I have often thought about opening up my own maternity store here in LA but for now, my only real options are to shop online and return, and shop again, and inevitably return again.
I do however have a leg up on the other pregnant women in Los Angeles who have to shop online along with me. Because I am in this industry, I happen to own a "9 month" pregnant belly. So, I can try on all of my purchases and know right away how they are going to look in my second and third trimester.
I thought it would be fun to include a little glimpse into the future here. Here is a photo of me with my fake belly in trying on some online purchases. What do you think?
.JPG)
I used to think this was normal, until I started a maternity and breastfeeding line of clothing and began selling to boutiques across the country. Did you know that Chicago has something like 7 independently owned stores? And every week a new store seems to be opening in Texas. I just don't get why women out here don't have the same options. I have often thought about opening up my own maternity store here in LA but for now, my only real options are to shop online and return, and shop again, and inevitably return again.
I do however have a leg up on the other pregnant women in Los Angeles who have to shop online along with me. Because I am in this industry, I happen to own a "9 month" pregnant belly. So, I can try on all of my purchases and know right away how they are going to look in my second and third trimester.
I thought it would be fun to include a little glimpse into the future here. Here is a photo of me with my fake belly in trying on some online purchases. What do you think?
.JPG)
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
13 weeks
I made a mistake in my post yesterday. I am actually 13 weeks today.
I find that I have less to say (and blog about) this time around but I will try to post once a week and whenever else the mood strikes.
I went to a prenatal yoga class today. I actually went last week as well and the instructor said "I want to see you all back here next week." It definitely stuck with me and I'm glad I went back. I tried a different class a few weeks ago but didn't seem to click as much with the instructor. I'm going to try to go every week again if I can. I'm lucky that this time around the fact that I work from home means my schedule is much more flexible than it was when I was working 50+ hour weeks and had a crazy commute to Santa Monica when I was pregnant with Juju. Also, since I already belong to the Y, the classes are all free. That makes them kind of hard to resist.
I'm enjoying the stretching which I imagine will become more uncomfortable (and more necessary) in the coming weeks. And I'm hoping this helps me to ward off cramps and other ailments that plague pregnant women. I'd also love to try a prenatal water aerobics class but I am not sure where I would find one. Perhaps I should just try the aquafit class at the Y. Most of the people in the class are in their 70s; I can't imagine I would have a more limited range of motion than they do. . .
I find that I have less to say (and blog about) this time around but I will try to post once a week and whenever else the mood strikes.
I went to a prenatal yoga class today. I actually went last week as well and the instructor said "I want to see you all back here next week." It definitely stuck with me and I'm glad I went back. I tried a different class a few weeks ago but didn't seem to click as much with the instructor. I'm going to try to go every week again if I can. I'm lucky that this time around the fact that I work from home means my schedule is much more flexible than it was when I was working 50+ hour weeks and had a crazy commute to Santa Monica when I was pregnant with Juju. Also, since I already belong to the Y, the classes are all free. That makes them kind of hard to resist.
I'm enjoying the stretching which I imagine will become more uncomfortable (and more necessary) in the coming weeks. And I'm hoping this helps me to ward off cramps and other ailments that plague pregnant women. I'd also love to try a prenatal water aerobics class but I am not sure where I would find one. Perhaps I should just try the aquafit class at the Y. Most of the people in the class are in their 70s; I can't imagine I would have a more limited range of motion than they do. . .
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Epilogue to my Dr. search
I just wanted to follow up to a post I wrote the other day and let it be known that I have settled on a doctor. I meet her in a few weeks and I've heard great things so I'm hopeful we'll click and I can move on and stop worrying about this.
I am amazed at how many of my friends absolutely love their OBGYN's at Cedars, and how they are all different doctors! How does one choose? This was my problem all along, I simply have too many great choices.
Now I'm off to cancel some appointments I've made with "backup" offices!
I am amazed at how many of my friends absolutely love their OBGYN's at Cedars, and how they are all different doctors! How does one choose? This was my problem all along, I simply have too many great choices.
Now I'm off to cancel some appointments I've made with "backup" offices!
This blog is public
I was going to wait until 14 weeks to make this public but I think 13 weeks will do. I'm officially "coming out" as pregnant.
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
I'm a little bit crunchy, I'm a little bit hos-pit-al. . .
I learned today that looking for a doctor in Los Angeles (in Beverly Hills specifically) is a lot like applying to preschool.
When Juju was the ripe old age of 1 I learned I was already behind the ball in applying to preschools. So, I called one that was recommended to me (let's call them Westward Ho! Preschool) and was told I would be 69th on their wait list for a tour and it was unlikely that I would ever get one. That meant that I would not be able to get an application to Westward Ho! which meant I couldn't apply to the school or even dream of ever getting in. I was then asked if I knew anyone at the school. I explained that I hadn't lived in LA that long and didn't really know anyone with kids at that point. The secretary then told me that I should seek out mommy and me classes where I might meet parents with children at Westward Ho!. If I found one who would give me a tour on their own, I could then obtain a coveted application and (a $75 application fee later) probably still not have a very good chance of getting in. I remember I hung up the phone and wasn't sure whether to laugh hysterically at how absurd the situation was or burst into tears because I had already failed my child by not signing up for my tour at Westward Ho! after my first ultrasound.
I wasn't taking this without a fight so I actually went out and found someone who went to Westward Ho! (no small feat) who gave me a tour and introduced me to the director. I submitted my application and never heard from them again (which is probably a good thing because now that I know what I know about schools, Westward Ho! is last on my list). Live and learn and be more frugal when filling out applications next time.
Today I was brought back to that place. I have to switch OBGYNs because the hospital where my doc delivers (Good Sams) no longer takes my insurance and the hospital where I delivered Juju (St. Johns in Santa Monica aka the best boutique hospital ever!) is just too far from me now. This means I am destined for Cedars. It is closer to my house (and more importantly Juju's school) and happens to be a fantastic hospital. I've tried to avoid it in the past because it's so big and scary and they do a lot of C-sections there but at the end of the day, it makes the most sense.
I spent the past two days getting recommendations on new OBGYNs and scouring Yelp and Yahoo message boards to find out who likes them, who doesn't, and why. I narrowed it down to three docs who seemed like my perfect blend of crunchy-granola-natural-birth-supporting-with-all-the-backup-of-a-stellar-medical-record-behind-them and started making calls. I assumed it wouldn't be a big deal to switch practices now as I am only about 12 weeks pregnant and at this point am not a high risk pregnancy. Boy was I wrong. The first office I called told me that the doctor I wanted to see was not taking any new patients who were delivering when I was due. I told the receptionist that this was disappointing news as I have about 6 or 7 friends who see her and they all rave about her. She then told me "in that case, I can put you in touch with our nurse practitioner. She can evaluate your case and then possibly make a recommendation to the doctor to take a second look at you before saying no. She will call you today or tomorrow to ask you some more questions." Um, is this an interview? And did I get one because I "know people who go there?" This was exactly what happened at Westward Ho! You would think I learned from my experiences back then but I still had that nagging feeling of "I must get into this office because it's so hard to get into so it must be great!"
I decided to move on to another OB on my list. This time I didn't even get a person but was able to leave a message on a machine requesting an appointment. I got a call back telling me that I would have to fill out a questionnaire and the doctor would review it and decide whether she would take me on or not. Well at least I wasn't flat out rejected. I answered the questionnaire and was told I would hear back in one or two days.
I called the final doctor on my list and was told she couldn't see me until September (this was a start at least!). I told them I needed to see a doctor in August to stay on track with my schedule and they found a way to squeeze me in. Hallelujah! I had found a doc! I called my perinatologist to have my records sent over and thought I was done.
But later today I came home to two answering machine messages, one telling me I got accepted to Dr. So and So's practice based on my questionnaire. Woo hoo! And another telling me that the NP at the Westward Ho! version of an OBGYN's office was ready for me to do my "interview" with her. I called back for my interview (the NP actually admitted she was vetting me for the doc) and I think I made quite an impression. I'll find out tomorrow or the next day if I got in. I hope they send me a letter so I can frame it with my letter of admission to Barnard (oh how I wish I actually saved that!) and hang it in Baby #2's room.
Meanwhile I have two appointments with the other 2 OB's I mentioned (I don't think I'll make an appointment with Westward Ho! even if I do get in) and an appointment with a group of midwives who deliver at UCLA hospital. And of course no one will let me meet with them for a consultation unless I pay them $250 so I just have to hold my breath and go with someone. But who?!? At this point I'm ready to flip a coin.
**Bonus points if you got my witty/corny headline
When Juju was the ripe old age of 1 I learned I was already behind the ball in applying to preschools. So, I called one that was recommended to me (let's call them Westward Ho! Preschool) and was told I would be 69th on their wait list for a tour and it was unlikely that I would ever get one. That meant that I would not be able to get an application to Westward Ho! which meant I couldn't apply to the school or even dream of ever getting in. I was then asked if I knew anyone at the school. I explained that I hadn't lived in LA that long and didn't really know anyone with kids at that point. The secretary then told me that I should seek out mommy and me classes where I might meet parents with children at Westward Ho!. If I found one who would give me a tour on their own, I could then obtain a coveted application and (a $75 application fee later) probably still not have a very good chance of getting in. I remember I hung up the phone and wasn't sure whether to laugh hysterically at how absurd the situation was or burst into tears because I had already failed my child by not signing up for my tour at Westward Ho! after my first ultrasound.
I wasn't taking this without a fight so I actually went out and found someone who went to Westward Ho! (no small feat) who gave me a tour and introduced me to the director. I submitted my application and never heard from them again (which is probably a good thing because now that I know what I know about schools, Westward Ho! is last on my list). Live and learn and be more frugal when filling out applications next time.
Today I was brought back to that place. I have to switch OBGYNs because the hospital where my doc delivers (Good Sams) no longer takes my insurance and the hospital where I delivered Juju (St. Johns in Santa Monica aka the best boutique hospital ever!) is just too far from me now. This means I am destined for Cedars. It is closer to my house (and more importantly Juju's school) and happens to be a fantastic hospital. I've tried to avoid it in the past because it's so big and scary and they do a lot of C-sections there but at the end of the day, it makes the most sense.
I spent the past two days getting recommendations on new OBGYNs and scouring Yelp and Yahoo message boards to find out who likes them, who doesn't, and why. I narrowed it down to three docs who seemed like my perfect blend of crunchy-granola-natural-birth-supporting-with-all-the-backup-of-a-stellar-medical-record-behind-them and started making calls. I assumed it wouldn't be a big deal to switch practices now as I am only about 12 weeks pregnant and at this point am not a high risk pregnancy. Boy was I wrong. The first office I called told me that the doctor I wanted to see was not taking any new patients who were delivering when I was due. I told the receptionist that this was disappointing news as I have about 6 or 7 friends who see her and they all rave about her. She then told me "in that case, I can put you in touch with our nurse practitioner. She can evaluate your case and then possibly make a recommendation to the doctor to take a second look at you before saying no. She will call you today or tomorrow to ask you some more questions." Um, is this an interview? And did I get one because I "know people who go there?" This was exactly what happened at Westward Ho! You would think I learned from my experiences back then but I still had that nagging feeling of "I must get into this office because it's so hard to get into so it must be great!"
I decided to move on to another OB on my list. This time I didn't even get a person but was able to leave a message on a machine requesting an appointment. I got a call back telling me that I would have to fill out a questionnaire and the doctor would review it and decide whether she would take me on or not. Well at least I wasn't flat out rejected. I answered the questionnaire and was told I would hear back in one or two days.
I called the final doctor on my list and was told she couldn't see me until September (this was a start at least!). I told them I needed to see a doctor in August to stay on track with my schedule and they found a way to squeeze me in. Hallelujah! I had found a doc! I called my perinatologist to have my records sent over and thought I was done.
But later today I came home to two answering machine messages, one telling me I got accepted to Dr. So and So's practice based on my questionnaire. Woo hoo! And another telling me that the NP at the Westward Ho! version of an OBGYN's office was ready for me to do my "interview" with her. I called back for my interview (the NP actually admitted she was vetting me for the doc) and I think I made quite an impression. I'll find out tomorrow or the next day if I got in. I hope they send me a letter so I can frame it with my letter of admission to Barnard (oh how I wish I actually saved that!) and hang it in Baby #2's room.
Meanwhile I have two appointments with the other 2 OB's I mentioned (I don't think I'll make an appointment with Westward Ho! even if I do get in) and an appointment with a group of midwives who deliver at UCLA hospital. And of course no one will let me meet with them for a consultation unless I pay them $250 so I just have to hold my breath and go with someone. But who?!? At this point I'm ready to flip a coin.
**Bonus points if you got my witty/corny headline
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)