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Ali

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Very exciting waiting for news about Elmo!

Not a very good start to my maternity leave this week - Monday had a pinched nerve near my hip and yesterday and today been unwell with a head cold. DS is at childcare today so just sitting on the couch with my feet up resting today.

After dropping off DS I did pop into Big W and bought a couple of gifts for when bub is born - a Spot book babyto give DS ("Spot's Baby Sister") and then just a little toy that DS can give bub. Anyone else doing something similar? I just didn't want DS to feel left out when bub arrives.

It's freezing and wet in Melbourne...not good when I'm already struggling to find clothes to cover my growing bump.

Hi Everyone,

Thanks for your kind words and support. I'm definitely going to be seeking a second opinion. DH is actually quite indignant about the whole thing as everything has been going so well. Because of the changes to my diet due to the GD, I've even lost weight! Every appt, everyone has always mentioned the risks of too high blood sugar (i.e. increased size of baby etc) but no-one has mentioned anything about risks of too low blood sugar. I didn't realise that this could mean intervention. A bit naive, I suppose. But I even looked for articles online and couldn't find any information at least not definitive - just lots of mentions of "uncontrolled GD" but only giving examples of too high blood sugar.

The few times I've had hypos in the last few weeks have only been because on those days I've been doing really physical work getting the nursery ready (e.g. painting etc). If I had realised, I would have been a lot more careful about pacing myself. DH has an idea that if I take it easy over the next week until the next appt on Tuesday and can prove that I do have the GD under control and if everything is OK with bubs, maybe they won't be so quick to push interventions. When they checked yesterday, bubs heartbeat was great and they could hear the placenta working really well. My blood pressure is still spot on as usual and everything has been great. We'll wait and see what they have to say.

In the meantime, DH is going to put a super rush job on getting the nursery ready. Don't at all care if its not perfect at this stage. We've just worked out a plan to get the bare minimum required set up to be able to function with a baby. I.e. Setting up bassinet and change table and making sure the bassinet linen and some clothes are washed , moving furniture around so we can fit the bassinet in the bedroom, cleaning the nursery carpet etc. The cot, for example, is staying in the flatpack because we won't be needing it for awhile in any case so we have time later to worry about that. And decorating can definitely wait until later. Unfortunately, we've also got a skip arriving this weekend and DH is going to have to do all the heavy work by himself now.

We don't actually have any friends or family in Canberra to help us out. They are all in Brisbane. We really have to do something about building a support network in Canberra. We are both fairly self contained and don't always find it easy to make friends. But we realise we have to be more involved anyway as parents in the future because of bubs so we'll be working hard on that. (i.e. school involvement, playgroups etc)

DH also read through everyone's posts and he's really grateful for the support from everyone as well especially when everyone's advice was tallying with his own to me! But he didn't have to worry, I was agreeing with everything he and you all had to say anyway. BTW, macdolby, DH wants to assure you he has plenty of flair!

Questions: I'm feeling better about some aspects but I'm also frightened by the degree of possible amount of intervention that may be required. Does anyone know how this can affect things like breastmilk production after the birth? Is it harder to get things started? I'm really worried about bonding as well as I don't even know if I will be seeing my baby straight away depending on what happens. I've already ordered DH to stay with bubs no matter what if they take him away for any reason. And if I'm not able, he's to give lots of skin-to-skin cuddles after the birth until I'm able to. He's all primed and ready to go!

It's weird, I'm really going to miss having bubs squirming around. Will anyone else or is everyone just too impatient to have the whole thing over with? I've really enjoyed the pregnancy itself but I'm also really looking forward to after the birth when I get to hold him/her and say hi for the first time. I'm just seeing the birth itself as a kind of roadblock I have to get through. Not the right attitude, really. But I'll be working on that!

Anyway, that's enough about that.

Elmo: Such exciting news! The first one in the group. It just brings home how close we all really are to seeing our little ones. I just checked the DIG list and realised that elmo is due the same time as me. So, maybe there's hope for me as well that my body will be ready by next week. Can't wait to find out how everything is going! Sending heaps of wishes and good thoughts for a great birth!

Welcome, EmilyKate! Wow, still getting newbies to the group. Definitely an exciting time to join.

Hello!

Wow - exciting time to swing by and read of Elmo's news! I was wondering how long until the first person went :-) Hope all is going well for her.

Geckogirl - your experience sounds very stressful. Wouldn't it have been nice if you had been given all the info on low-blood sugar initially, rather than finding out now? Some doctors and midwives can be very cold and clinical about such things - good luck with your second opinion getting!

Ames78 - i hear you about finding clothes to cover the bump! I'm in Cairns, so don't need the warmth, but i'm sure my workplace are getting sick of me seeing wear the same three outfits over and over!!

All is well here, have OB appt next monday for the official 36 week appt. (although we are the ones with the dubious dates, i think i'm already 36 weeks). I guess i will find out then when we will be induced if no action, last time they were talking about the 10th of June. My GP didn't sound very confident about me seeing him again at 37 weeks though.
We are hoping to have a water birth, but seems to be very hard to get the information we need from the hospital - lots of unanswered emails. Apparently there are only a limited number of midwives who do waterbirths, so we will cross our fingers and i will ask again on monday when i go for the OB appt at hospital.

Our carseat is in the car and all set up. My husband put it in himself (with my invaluable assistance of course). I too was surprised by how little room it left the front passenger, and that is in the RAV4! We also have a mazda3, but the anchor points in that are in a really obscure spot, which would make putting the stroller in the boot nearly impossible. Luckily i won't need so much room in the front seat once baby girl arrives and i do not take up so much room!

Hope you are all feeling well, i will be checking back regularly now for any exciting news!!

Elmo....YAY!!! Can't wait to hear!!!!

Gecko Girl - I completely understand your point of view! It's sooooo hard to comprehend a different birth when you had planned (and been told) you could have it another way. I agree with all the others - second opinion is needed and write down your questions as we all know how our brains go to mush!

I don't see why you couldn't wait...they should have told you there was a chance of induction if your blood sugars varied. Then, like you said, you would have been MORE careful. My advice to you is to make sure hubby goes with you to the next appointment (sure he already is planning too) and be quite assertive. It's your body and your baby and you have the right to contribute towards decisions about your delivery.

I have had a 'natural' birth and an induction and liked both, if that is any consolation. But make sure you fight for what you believe in!



AFM...TOTALLY over the world at the moment! We have had sooo many things go wrong in our lives over the past 7 days that I have been finding it hard to cope! The worst thing is that our cat is still missing....it actually belongs to my 6 year old, and having to tell her it may not be coming back is heartbreaking.

Quick question - last week i lost 5 kilos from being sick and now i can barely walk - it feels like my back can't support me anymore? I went yesterday and bought a small back supporter from the brand 'new beginnings' - it's like a giant velcro/elastic strap. Any other useful suggestions for back support? I still have the sciatica and hip pain at night, as well as pain at the top of my leg bones?? So weird.

YAY Elmo - Sounds like the first bub is on the way!

Sorry for the lack of personals but I don't have very good news.

My FIL had an op last week and has taken a turn for the worst. They call it a "spray of bugs" read bad infection. He was doing really well, but now not so well. They can't guarantee anything and if he can't fight the infection there is nothing much they can do. Only time will tell - but I am having a major freak out and am worried that I will be left alone to have this baby. My MIL and BIL rely so much on DH for support and DH even said last night that he can't even think about the baby at the moment. Mum and Dad are out of reach camping at the moment and even if I do get hold of them, its probably three days til they could come down.

I know I need to stay positive, but it is so hard not to think of the what ifs at the moment. I just want my FIL to meet his little grandchild. He has been so excited.

Have a midwife appointment this afternoon, so will get to check on bub and hope that the stress isn't affecting him/her. DH is coming with me so that will be good for him.

Thinking of you and your family jmck82. Hopefully your FIL can fight through this, and your baby will wait until the perfect moment to make his/her arrival.

Evening everyone

Ok, first up - no update from Elmo just yet - just checked my phone. Hoping its all going well for her.

Geckogirl - glad to hear you're feeling a little bit better today.

Jmck - so sorry to hear about your FIL, I hope he can fight the bugs and comes through it all ok.

sage - has your cat turned up yet?

After my meltdown with DH today, I'm feeling a bit better. Geez, he really does need to start to learn to ignore my moods and just let me get it out!

Nothing to report on my end, everything seems a bit of an anti-climax after Elmo's surprising news!

Baby has been active today and had a few BH but nothing major. I got DD's room 'spring cleaned' today, moved her bed from away from under the window in time for winter (though apparently I didnt do such a great job as I missed one thing under her bed... cheeky 4yo! )

Off to get the capsule fitted tomorrow and will call in at Target afterwards to take advantage of their kids clothing sale. I picked up some great clothes for DD last week (doh!) and I'd like to grab a couple more things (they have these 'denim' jean-look leggings that look so cute on her!)

Have carried over my 'to do' list from today since I didnt have much time after my pedicure and grocery shopping today - I'll just have to get more things done tomorrow.

Really in nesting mode but struggling physically!

Hope everyone else is doing well, will be watching for any updates from anyone else!

Sage74 – Wow what a week! Fingers crossed everything is ok with bub and this week is better!!! About the cat, (I’m an animal person) cats get put out sometimes and give themselves time out. I’ve heard of cats disappearing for weeks even months and reappearing happy and healthy. My BIL’s cat went missing for 6 months and came back!!!

Chev – Bummer about your little car accident, hope you get your driving confidence back soon!!!

Geckogirl – Sorry to hear about the news from your ob. Fingers crossed that you are induced and then it all happens smoothly. I have the same problem with the epidural, I really don’t want one either!!! Glad to hear your DH is such a good guy, it makes all the difference! I am going to miss my bump too, I have become very attached to it!!!

Welcome EmilyKate, I wasn’t expecting anyone to join this late, but it is great to have you on board!! We are a friendly bunch, you’ll love it!!!

Yay Elmo!!! Will be stalking to hear the news!!!

Misspip – Good luck with the water birth, I hope you can get the answers you need.

jmck82 – wow, you are having a bad run too. I hope FIL pulls through and DH can focus on you and bub!!!

AFM – Well Day 3 of maternity leave down!!! So I finished work on Thursday with a nice little send off. Went straight to Melbourne and on Friday had a scan, I was a guineapig for some trainee’s. It was great to see my little man again he is really amazing!!! They did a heap of measurements and bub is pretty normal size, a slightly smaller than normal waist and slightly larger than normal legs and head . Left with some great picks and 2 short vids, have posted one on FB but will try to post on EB too.

Saturday we had a baby shower at my mums house, it was great!!! Really it was a get together of family and friends, with a few baby shower games thrown in. It was great catching up with everyone and awesome to see all my friends and family interacting. We got some wonderful gifts too. My girlfriends all chipped in and got a bunch of useful things like nappies, singlets, toys, children’s panadol, hot/cold packs, bottles and heaps of other great things. But the best part was how they presented it. One of the girls made a 3-wheel bike out of nappies, wraps and other things and it looked amazing and behind it was a little trailer packed with the goodies!!! It was amazing, I’ll try to post a photo later!! Mothers day was good, I made a yummy breakfast for my mum (we were staying with them for the weekend) which she loved, but I didn’t get acknowledged at all, bummer!!!

Now this week is my first week of maternity leave, boy I’ve been busy!!! I’ve cooked, cleaned, I’ve lunched, and I’ve packed. I’m just trying to get everything sorted as soon as possible and then rest later. I do have a massage booked for tomorrow which I am really looking forward to!!! Yay maternity leave!!!

It's been ages since I have been on here.
Now that I am easing off a work I have more time to do stuff like this. It's a relief I have to say...work is getting more challenging. I just can't handle the busy days and rushing around anymore!

Anyhow, it's going to take me a week or so to catch up on what's happening. It's great that the first baby of the group is on the way.... not long now for all of us!!

OH MY GOD
It has been ages since I was on and I feel so out of touch. I did just do some reading and caught up but it's not the same as logging on every day is it? Personals are beyond me now (lol they always were - I'm so useless).

Elmo - SO EXCITED FOR YOU! I'm due the same day and have been told i'll be induced before then so have been freaking out and now even more so. If it can happen to one first timer then it could happen to me eek! Cannot WAIT to hear about you, I'm hoping everythings going well. God, see what happens when I skip a week?

jmck82 - Thinking of you and have my fingers crossed everything turns out ok

geckogirl - I'm really sorry they've sprung that on you. They kind of did that to me too, and the way the doctor brought up the induction was as if we had been discussing it for weeks, just mid conversation... I've been really slack with the labour/birth preparation (I think I'm in denial) so did not have any plans/hopes (except maybe hoping it won't hurt that much??? - lol) and so although I'm worried that an induction will hurt more than a natural labour and I'm disappointed it will mean I can't be at home for the beginning of the labour, it didnt spoil any hopes I had IYKWIM? I can totally understand though how disappointed you must be to feel like you're losing control over the situation. It's a big deal (the labour/birth) and something I'm terrified of. To have taken the reins and prepared yourself to embrace the labour and birth is really brave in the first place, then to suddenly and without notice be told your choices don't matter must have thrown you. I'm angry on your behalf! I hope you and your DH can at least make a compromise. It's wonderful that he's so interested and supportive of your decisions and rights.

Maternity leave - I finished work last week - Isn't it terrible I spent more time on EB when I was still working? I spent the last 3 days giving another receptionist training that I was supposed to give my replacement (who quit after a week) and it was nice to feel busy and useful, it had slowed down alot being airconditioning it goes dead this time of year. Everyone at work put in money and one of the girls went and bought bottles, clothes, wraps, nappies and HEAPS of baby toiletries (wipes, wash etc...) and made a huge hamper, and then there was also 2 gift packs, a j&j one, with more wash, wipes and stuff and a curash gift pack. Then there were a few golden circle (i think) books and a pack of tupperware for when he's old enough for food. ALSO a huge mud cake!!! I so have a thing for mud cake. It was really great leaving on that note - although it's only for 6mths. The first few days after I finished work I cleaned, not because I wanted to but because it needed doing. Now even thought there's still the outside area to tidy and sweep, and the bath/shower to clean, I haven't wanted to do anything today - I can't let myself do this. I so enjoy reading books and sitting on the laptop, nothing will ever get done!

I have everything ready for baby, I'm in the process of washing these bags of clothes mum brought back from the UK, she got back Monday. She went nuts and got the cutest clothes, it's just the sizes don't say 0000 or 000 IYKWIM? So unsure what the sizes are? Some say 0-3mths etc... but look big?

Unsure who said they were sad they weren't going to be pregnant anymore? Hope not elmo but I dont think so.... I'll be sad not to be pregnant anymore, I've enjoyed all of it, the first 12 weeks were so stressful but I was on a high from finding out so even that part was good. I'm still freaking out about having a baby - I'm just not ready yet! lol because it's a bit late for that. I'm looking forward to meeting my baby but seriously I almost feel as if I could wait a few months. Knowing elmo's waters broke and she's a first timer like me and duce the same day is scary! For me, not elmo...

The other night I only woke once for the toilet but when I got up to go, my stomach and back muscles kind of seized from under my boobs to my pelvis. I felt like I almost couldn't breathe and like I was going to throw up. I had sweat pouring down my face and I started to panic. I got back into bed onto my left side and it eased immediately. I freaked that that's what contractions were going to be like from the start and maybe I was going into labour, but at the same time I kind of knew I wasn't. I'm not a wimp when it comes to pain. I don't like it but I usually can cope. I haven't really had any BH but I really feel like contractions (at least at first) wouldnt be that bad. I don't know what it was but everything has been normal (ok) since and it hasnt happened again. Bubs is very active.I think he's getting bigger (or fatter) and his movements can hurt! Lots of head bouncing on cervix as well - it's so ouchie!

I have an OB appt tomorrow. I was 37wks yesterday and although my OB said at my last appt 2 wks ago I'll be induced between 39-40wks unless I go into labour first, I don't think she'll discuss that at this appt - I'll have another appt next week (38wks 2d) and I think she'll do it then? I hope so because DH cant make this appt - he doesnt usually come but I want him there when they discuss induction...


OMG! There's my catch up - I will never leave it that long again. I'll be popping in to catch an update on elmo - fingers crossed for her. have a good day everyone!

Side profile!!! So cute!

The awesome babyshower gift that my girlfriends put together!!!

snowkat... So Cute!

Jade: Lovely to hear from you again!

I don't think I can do a long post today. I feel off.
Stupid cramping. Over it already! lol. And it's BLOODY cold here atm... I need to go steal one of DH's jumpers cause none of mine fit me anymore!


I'm still stalking for news on Elmo!

Afternoon

Eric is mine - hope you're feeling better and your appt went well this afternoon.

snowkat - v cute pic!

jade - what a massive catch up! Glad to hear you're all organised for your new arrival. Re the UK sizing, we also get a lot of clothing sized like that and yes! I agree, they are on the larger side. I don't know, perhaps they grow bigger kids there? I know that DD and her cousin who is 6 months younger are nearly the same size, though DD is smaller!

M&Ms - good to hear from you, hope you can check in more now that work is easing off a bit.

AFM - have been a little bit lazy today.. - I dropped DD off at childcare, hit the mall to pick up a couple of items on sale at Target, got the capsule installed, did some vacuuming and mopping and laundry and have been watching tv the rest of the time (naughty me!). Ah, I figure I'm not going to get much 'free' time soon enough!

DH is on his way home with DD so I'd best get off here. I will of course update when/if I hear from Elmo - I'm sure we're probably the last thing on her mind right now but geez, it would be good to get an update

Have a great evening everyone!

**Elmo Update** - verbatim from text: Had a big few days. Not much happened on Wednesday, just waited at hospital, induced on Friday morning (think she means Thursday morning), laboured until 6pm when I stopped dilating and bubs got a bit stuck. C-section done straight away with Luke being delivered happy and healthy at 7.20pm, 3.2 kg. 50cm, dark hair, blue eyes and gorgeous (of course).

CONGRATULATIONS to Elmo on the safe arrival of Luke!

Fantastic news, congratulations elmo and welcome to Luke!

So ... by my calcs elmo was 37 weeks and 1 day yesterday. Didn't make it to the scheduled start of her maternity leave!

AWESOME! Congratulations Elmo! That's wonderful news! Blue eyes and dark hair - my favourite combination for a boy - I bet he'll be gorgeous!

And so it starts.....

Just wanted to pop in and say a big congrats to Elmo on the birth of Luke! He sounds sooo handsome!

Also, Snowkat, thanks for posting scan pics, your little man looks super cute too!

Hi Ladies,

I have to be super quick as I'm training my maternity leave replacement and so don't have any EB time at work (Grrrr)...

Just wanted to say a huge CONGRATULATIONS to Elmo! How wonderful to hear of our first baby, a healthy & happy little man. Can't wait to hear of all the other healthy & happy little arrivals coming our way.

Take care & look forward to pics & updates!

JT

Welcome little Luke into the world!!! Congratulation Elmo, hope you are recovering well!!!
It's strted!!!!

Just stopping in to say CONGRATULATIONS ELMO & WELCOME LUKE!!!!

My OB has booked my induction for 29/5 - I hope I go into labour first. Going back next week with DH for a more in depth appt about it and examination so they can decide how to go about it.

Elmo, so happy for you!

Congratulations Elmo on the birth of Luke

The ball is now rolling...............................who will be next!?

37 weeks for me today. everything is going well. Ob did a quick growth scan after I asked out of curiosity how big Bump's head was and she's measuring around 5lb 6oz at the moment so he's changed his prediction to just over 6lbs. (Personally I'll be surprised if she is that small, and then I'll be shocked and wondering what to do with a little baby!!)

Everything else is going well.

We moved house last weekend and handed keys back today so I am officially over cleaning! Now just have to unpack and sort this house out!!

Apologies for not posting much in here recently, FB is evil lol (and easier).

Now for my net and phone to go on in this house!! (Although I think the unpacking/sorting will stop when that goes through!)

Treesar/Sam,
You might be trying to keep a bit of privacy and I don't mean to pry, just wondering if you or anyone else in our dig are having their babies at KEMH? Would be comforting to know I could possibly (kind of) know someone else going through the same thing in the same place.

Afternoon

Lovely sunny day in Sydney but a v cold wind.

Sorry Jade - I'm in Sydney so going to Hornsby hospital. I know there are a couple from our DIG who are going to the same hospital as you but cant recall who.

AFM - Not a lot to report here really. I had significant pain/discomfort last night in my tummy and cervix area and was seriously wondering what was going on, and its started again today, but has eased a bit when I dont walk about (so obviously not labour). I sent my SIL a text message last night ensuring she's still on call for DD in case something happens this weekend as my brother is away in NZ.

Don't know why as I'm only just 37 weeks today but I feel like this baby isnt going to stay put for long. Was up 4x last going to the toilet and each time the baby was awake too, rolling around, very busy in there.

We need to go and check out a new bbq, a new lawnmower and also some heaters at some stage so may get on to that this afternoon once DH has finished on the roof clearing leaves out of the gutters (he hates the job with a vengeance but it needs to be done as we have a flat roof and lots of trees).

Well, as I said, not a lot to say really. Hoping Elmo is enjoying her wee man - not sure when you're due out of hospital? I'm guessing at least 5 days from Thursday? Let us know when you're home and post some lovely photos of your new bub.

Have a great weekend everyone, can't wait for the next announcement....

Hi Jade - I'm in Perth, but going to SJOGS sorry. Just up the road though!

Since being sick last week, my BH have settled right down...hope this doesn't mean it's extending the pregnancy time! Have an OB appointment monday afternoon to plot a plan of attack for the breech position. Whilst I have been doing the exercises, haven't felt anything has moved!

We just went and bought a Fisher Price I-Glide Swing/Rocker. We had a swing for our DD1, used it TO DEATH as she had silent reflux and colic. We even used to sleep her in it at night! So have sold that old one (7 years old) and bought this new one as it is not battery operated, we can connect it to mains. It rocks, glides and swings all in one! Hubby and I realised whilst we were assembling it, that this is the FIRST NEW thing we have bought for the baby...poor little third child always gets all the hand- me- downs! So that was exciting.

Hi everyone, I hope you are all getting the chance to relax, catch up on sleep and enjoy these last few weeks (or days!)

It's so exciting for Elmo and family with the arrival of little Luke, I hope it's all going brilliantly.

Despite being only 36+1 today I am feeling closer than I ever have this early before (I had one baby one week early, and the other a week late). I could be wrong but I don't think this one will go full term - possibly because I'm hoping to avoid induction at nearly 40 weeks due to the GD - will know more on Thursday after my last sizing scan.

I had so many things I wanted to reply too, but am feeling a bit of pressure to get organised today, so am finally packing a bag and washing last minute things (Hopefully in anticiaption and not just wishful thinking), so I should go.

A "handy hint" from a wise old woman is to try and have a nap every day now - I find it hard as there is so much to do, and we all want to sleep at night, but I actually find I sleep better at night if I've had even 15mins - 1/2 hour in the early afternoon. You never hear a new Mum say "Oh I wish I hadn't napped at all in those last weeks" afterall!

Take care everyone!

Well, we've pretty much got it all done now. Except for washing clothes and linen and buying just a couple more little items, the nursery is now set up. At least to the minimum we need for the first few months. We'll be leaving things like washing all the toys and setting up the cot till a bit later as we don't need that right now. It was alot of work but DH worked like a trooper over the weekend and we got it all done! So I'm feeling much more prepared, now. *Whew*

Kimichelle: I definitely like you idea of a nap every day. I'm hoping to get them in over the next couple of days ready for Thursday. Though I'm pretty sure that bubs is still not engaged so I don't know whether they're going to want to do the induction or not.

sage74: I really want to get a glider/rocker as well but I can't seem to make my mind up about which one to get! I'm haunting the online second-hand classified sites now to see if we can find something suitable. I've talked to so many parents who swear by them. Do you think a bouncer would be enough (for when they get older and kind of do the bouncing themselves) or is it better to get the motorised versions?

macdolby: Unlike you, I really get the feeling that bubs doesn't want to come out too soon. Isn't it funny how we get these feelings but I really don't have anything concrete to base it on? Just my own intuition. I suppose we should learn to trust it more.

I've been thinking about this a bit lately. For example, I've read a lot of birth stories where a woman has felt that such and such should be done but let's herself be over-ruled by the medical fraternity and is found to be later to have been right. I think in these modern times we just don't trust our inner sense of our bodies because we have been taught to value scientific fact and authority higher than our intuition. The idea of intuition has been degraded over time but it can be just as valid as any other sense such as sight or touch - at least when it comes to our inner feelings about our bodies. I'm not so sure about intuition when it relates to outside circumstances such as whether something sounds like a good deal! Perhaps we should just rename it as "body sense" to differentiate it.

Ah well, anyway, back to the washing. It's -5 degrees min today in Canberra and its foggy and overcast where I am so I don't think it's a good drying day. I'll have to set up all the washing under the heating vents instead! Not as good as drying in the sun. About the only thing I miss about Brisbane - the 5 mins it took to dry even the heaviest material in summer! It's more like baking than drying!

Have a great day!

Hello all,
Big congratulations to Elmo on the safe arrival of Luke! Lovely name too :-)

Geckogirl - am glad you have your nursery organised and can relax a little bit now before the big arrival!

Jade - exciting you have a date!!!!!

AFM - I just had OB appt at hospital (the official 36 week one, although this OB also agreed am probably 2 weeks ahead of that!) What a lovely doctor she was - came away feeling positive and empowered. Even though it did take her a minute to find baby's heartbeat (i think my heart stopped briefly during that minute!). Spoke to one of the midwives about the waterbirth and have information and a number to call now, which is good. So am feeling much more organised. Except apprently i was meant to have had a 36 week blood test that no one told me about - oops! will do that on friday at GP appt. Apparently baby's head isn't engaged yet but all in the right position so that's good.
This doctor doesn't feel it is necessary to schedule inductions or caesarians at this point, whilst baby is big for dates, she isn't horribly so, and they'd rather just wait and see for a few more weeks.
I still have this week and next week at work. Totally jealous of all you girls already at home! My job isn't very physically demanding, but I'd love a twice daily nanna nap! My husband has been very kind though, and most days he runs me a bath when i get home from work :-)

Hope you're all feeling well and well rested!

Nope, sorry, we'll be having ours at Glengarry. But Perth is a small place for a big city! So it's sort of the "same place" ...


You mean "wise woman who's been there before" - or was the hint from your mum?

Evening

Geckogirl - wow! Thursday huh? our 2nd bub! I agree with you on the intuition thing - I'm going to try this time 'round to use mine a bit more with my parenting, tended to do a fair bit of reading with DD and I think I only confused myself more.

mispip - fantastic news on feeling so empowered after your appt - can't 'professionals' sometimes leave you feeling demoralised sometimes? Great you're having such a great experience. Wow that you're still working!

kymichelle - more intuition huh on an early arrival? hope you're right

AFM - so over it after last night. I had contractions of some kind pretty much every 30-40 minutes all night so hardly got any sleep. They're starting to become quite painful, particularly around my lower back (posterior bub!) but not progressing in pain levels or duration so just practice contractions I'm assuming. Hoping tonight isnt the same. Also clearing my bowels and feeling a little nauseas.

Other than that, not a lot to report, no show, no waters breaking - I'm still getting pretty wicked heartburn so don't think bub has quite dropped enough yet.

Elmo - keeping an eye out for a photo of Luke soon when you get the chance.

Hope others are faring better.

Ok, cooking dinner, BBL!

i had my first at KEMH if i can be of any help.

Hi

Just going to call the birthing suite - will update as and when I have received some advice!

Walking did not stop the contractions.

ETA: the birthing suite has said it sounds like the early stages of labour and to call them when they're 5 mins apart. DH is due home around lunchtime and wants me to call when they're about 7/8 mins to give us some lee-way in terms of travel time.

Bubs is not happy with the contractions. Everytime I have them he/she gives a kick (or punch) - can't be very nice in there being squeezed like that.

Hopefully nothing stalls, I can't believe it, I'm maybe meeting my little baby soon!

Ooo how exciting macdolby! I'll check in on facebook too to see how things are going.

All the very best for a smooth delivery and a healthy happy mum and baby.
xox

Oh, wow, macdolby! That's so exciting! Can't wait to hear the update to see how you are going. Wishing you a great delivery and happy baby!

AFM: What a difference an appt with a different OB makes! I saw one of my "regular" OBs today and also the endo. I haven't had any hypos this week but my fasting readings have still been low in the 3s and 4s. So she lowered my insulin yet again and sent me for a CGT to make sure bubs wasn't under any stress. The CGT was great - bubs was bouncing around all through the reading which made the midwife doing the scan happy. So he seems to be fine.

The OB was of the opinion we could wait a little longer for the induction if we wanted so we've rebooked the induction for next Tuesday. I feel like we have a bit of breathing space now and it feels right to wait a little longer as I really don't have the feeling that bubs is ready to come out yet.

Also, apparently the use of mechanical devices to expand the cervix is more common at Calvary Hospital and isn't done at Canberra Hospital (the way she described it sounded horrible to me) and while the pessary version of the prostaglandin application is used in some hospitals, the gel tends to be more used at Canberra Hospital. Though either can be used and both have advantages and disadvantages - which she explained. I think that I had some OB last week who has spent a lot more time at some other hospital and brought those experiences over without adapting them to what happens at Canberra - hence the conflicting information I got last week.

Anyway, this week's OB went through the entire procedure for induction and explained what happens to my body through the process. She explained the risks and what to expect in the way of pain or reactions etc. She was very thorough and it was such a relief to get some clear information.

So I'm feeling much better informed and confident about the process now and starting to feel excited again instead of apprehensive. And since we've got the nursery pretty much sent up I've got a whole week to relax! Woo Hoo!

I'll be for macdolby updates. If anyone sees anything on FB but isn't posted here - could you let us non-FB users know?

gecko girl: Don't worry, someone will update here too! It's too exciting not to shout it from everywhere! lol

I'm really glad your app today was much better than the last and you have a load more information. I felt so bad for you after your last app.


AFM: Been sick with gastro. Not pleasant at all. But it seems to have settled down now. I slept for over 4 hours today. Now to try and get something into my body. I feel so weak.


Hope we have some news on macdolby soon!

For non-Facebookers, an update on macdolby - she thinks this might be it and she'll probably be heading in to hospital soon. 6pm, ETA - Slightly false alarm.

geckogirl- that sounds like a much better appointment. So it looks like Tuesday? A big good luck from all of us! (I'm going through Calvary - I hope they don't do anything too scary to me there if I need to be induced!).

AFM - Last week of work this week. I had been so counting down, the 30s weeks seemed to go so slow and I was just getting so over it. Now I feel as if I have a second wind and feel like I could keep going. I think it is partly the realisation that on Friday when I walk out of that door a chapter of my life closes. Yes, another one opens and yes, it will in all likelihood be far more personally rewarding than anything I have done at my desk (!), but it's still a fairly big thing to adjust to and now that it's actually here I am feeling not quite ready for it. I guess you just can't please me!

Hi Honeydew,

I don't think you have to worry about Calvary. Its just that they have slightly different approaches at Canberra and all the information I've had from Endos, OBs and Midwives at appts plus what they told us during the Parenting classes did not match with what this OB was telling me last week. Which is why it was so confusing and upsetting. I'm sure that at your appts at Calvary they will have told you how they do things over there and you can have confidence in what they have told you.

The only thing I didn't like the sound of from the OB last week was the mechanical dilation of the cervix procedure which today's OB described to me. Its apparently an option at Calvary which they rarely do at Canberra but is still a legitimate option. The pessary version of administering Prostaglandin (which I only heard about from the OB for the first time last week) sounded like a reasonable alternative to the gel based on what the OB today told me. They both have advantages and disadvantages. She said which option is recommended on the day will depend on whoever is on call at the time and their personal preferences.

I can see macdolby is now online. I'll be waiting for the latest news!

Hi

Nothing to add Geckogirl, all rather anti-climatic!

Turned up at the hospital, they ran a trace and I was definitely contracting but after an exam (which hurt like anything!) she said my cervix hadnt started dilating and it is not established labour.

I had the option of staying on the ward or coming home and relaxing, taking panadeine extra. Home it was. She said she'd either see me really soon or more commonly (with a lot of first time labours) the contractions will stop and I'll go full term!

So, while my cervix is a bit wobbly now after the exam things have calmed down a bit and I doubt I'll go into labour til term!

Someone is a definite for the end of this week though so still very exciting for our DIG!

Hi all,

Just an update... i now have to go into the clinic every afternoon (annoying, but it has to be done) so they can check that my cervix isnt opening/can cause infection etc.

I have been bleeding for almost 4 days now... not red red 'period' blood but pinkish when i wipe... no pains but bub has 110% dropped big time, i feel like i hardly have a belly at all now which i told the ob concerned me but he said that bub is very very low now!

I am not even 37 weeks so i think thats why they want to monitor me prety closley, and plus it is my first pregnancy so I have no idea what to look for!

I CANT GO BEFORE THIS WEEKEND AS MY BABY SHOWER IS ON SUNDAY!!! I have been sooooo excited about my baby shower so anytime after it will be excellent haha!!

All getting pretty exciting in here now and pretty quiet so hopefully we can put another baby on the tally board with Elmo's baby Luke! Cant wait to see a pic of him!!!!

Only question i have for everyone is NAUSEA... is it a sign of labour??

Chat soon guys n gals xoxoxox

FTM - whoa! sounds like your little one is in a hurry to make an appearance, you'll have to cross your legs til after the weekend!

How are you going with the cervix checking - does it really hurt? I nearly hit the roof - perhaps I had an inept midwife???

AFM - not much happening today, some minor contractions and period twinges and lots of movement from the little one. Felt a bit lower today (not so low as you though FTM).

I bought a slow cooker today - got some food on and then realised that DH and I are out to a childcare info evening (our exciting life!) so won't be able to enjoy it (leaving it for the babysitter). It smells really good too! Will have to make a quick alternative for DH and I (already told the babysitter we'd feed her). This is the first time we're leaving DD with a sitter, she does know her but from a long time ago. Hopefully she'll be ok...

Ah I love my 'big girl' so much, she was so good at the hospital yesterday, made me really appreciate her when I came home 'empty handed'.

Have a good night everyone!

ETA - I've been getting a bit of nausea too, but not sure its a labour sign? could be coincidence?

I too have also been having nausea...like a return of mild morning sickness, and I have also had no appetite...will have to google it!

OK. I really hope no-one in our dig is having any SERIOUS problems today or I'll feel like a t*at - this is my problem...
So I had all these great plans for my maternity leave... I've since read about 9 novels (and that WAS NOT the plan!!!). I need to clean my bathroom, I was feeling soooo motivated yesterday and I went and bought cleaning stuff so I was READY. Then I tidied the patio area which was on the list and hurt my back so went and lay down, lost motivation to do anything else. I feel so fantastic it's done. Plan today was to clean the bathroom but I feel like I have a pinched nerve in my bum cheek (lol), and now I can't figure out whether it's that or the lack of motivation holding me back.
DH doesn't drive and I've been waking up at 4.45am every morning so I get dressed and drive him to work and that's a good thing or I wouldn't bother getting dressed. At the same time I'm sitting here stressing I'll go into labour and the house won't be done! I am NOT leaving this house until my floors are mopped and my bathrooms clean!!!! I tell DH every night before we go to bed if my waters break or something we need to get the housework done before we go anywhere - and I'm serious! I think that's what it'll take to motivate me! Sorry for that, I'm just annoyed with myself!

Also - people say you should have sex to bring on labour. As above, I'm not ready to go into labour yet. So now I worry that having sex will bring it on before I'm ready. Anyone have any thoughts on this? (I haven't let it stop me as yet ).

So my induction as far as I know is still scheduled for Sunday 29th. I have my weekly ob appt tomorrow - she said this week she'd do an examination to decide how to go about the induction and would then discuss all this with me and DH. DH never comes to appt's but he's coming to this one. I'm very scared about possible pain during the examination? I imagine she's not going to stand back and look - she's going in? Can anyone offer any reassurance (or not) about this and will I look like a peanut if I get DH to hold my hand?

The thing about being induced is... I don't have to worry that dh doesn't drive, we can arrange a lift to the hospital before hand instead of worrying that we'll have to call around at 2am or not find anyone available for a lift. And I have a schedule to work towards with regards to the housework, DH (who is casual and won't take a sick day because there are no staff to cover him) feels better about being able to give his boss a pre-arranged day than sending a message at 8am for the same day. I thought though, when I started getting this close I'd probably want to try eating pineapple, having sex (with the intention of inducing natural labour) etc... I AM worried that an induced labour will be worse than a natural labour, but I just feel foolish trying to bring it all on when I really don't feel ready (and the grout in my shower is grey... ok black). And there's already a baby in our dig (can't WAIT for photos btw!), and a few women feeling like their getting close. Isn't the uncertainty awful?

What a whinge!

I'll be in tomorrow after my appt and will attempt personals then. Thanks for the replies re: hospitals. THB I wouldn't be at KEMH either if it weren't for the specialised program I'm on and needing to see this particular group of midwives... It's so far from home (well half an hour in good traffic), and big and old and just not cosy....

Hi Jade

Ah, I feel for you that you're having such mixed emotions just now (I'm having a few myself).

Re the housework, - sounds like you know what you need/want to get done, perhaps just try to do one of those per day for the next little while? That way you wont feel so guilty if you don't get a lot done but you've ticked one off and will feel like you've achieved something.

Re getting to the hospital, I guess you have an induction date already and its not so far away now. I too have heard that sex can bring it on but I thought that was only if everything's ready to go. Of course it would be easier to have a date so you can organise your ride more easily (we have the same problem with ensuring we have someone to watch DD and a 3am call is not really our preference!). But the whole getting to the hospital is the fun bit (Well, I think).

For the internal - whilst I didnt have a great experience, I know that some women havent had anywhere near the discomfort I had. Not sure if thats down to the operator or whether if you're 'nearly ready' it makes it easier to do the examination (or I'm just a wuss) and therefore she/he doesnt have to 'go in' so far (iykwim)?? Also think its absolutely fine if your DH holds your hand (mine couldnt as he had to take DD out of the room, otherwise hell yeh, I would have had him stay!).

Hope you have some answers after tomorrow's appt and update us afterwards!

Thanks Macdolby
Yes, I am going to do a task a day. I am going to go and start the bathroom in just a minute. You've given me the motivation I needed. Yesterday a task a day was the plan but got off track today. Thanks to you my grout will be less black in an hour I swear!

The uncertainties are horrible really. If I mop my floors NOW, they'll need doing again by the time I get to the induction to look nice (lazy I know I'm just not that keen a cleaner) If I suddenly go into labour though, I'll be annoyed I've put everything off! So I either do everything twice and cover my a** or take the chance. Hmmmmm..... I'll take my chances I think.

I'm going to retreat into denial until I have to face the exam tomorrow. Why worry about the pain for 24hrs then have to go through the pain anyway? That's what gets me about birth. Just KNOWING it's coming for like 8 whole months! It's cruel!

I hope you are still going ok, and I hope everyone else is still soldiering on ok. Don't these last few weeks feel like limbo?

Hi ladies, just had to comment
Jade: do not be embarassed one little bit getting DH to hold your hand. I had DP hold my hand yest. and it's not my first bub! It's reassuring and comforting I think knowing they're there to look after you in a very vulnerable position. As for pain during the exam, try & relax below the waist, it doesn't always hurt.