Fashion Friday...no so much

I know...I know it is supposed to be Fashion Friday, but I just can't think of anything.  No matter where you are in the country, it is HOT everywhere.  My AC is on full blast no matter if I am in the car, at work, or at home (got the ceiling fans whipping there too). 
My fashion lately is what is the coolest thing I can get by with and still be appropriately dressed for work.

My employer's dress code in a nutshell:
-Official badge must be worn at all times. (no biggy with that)

-Hair, beards, and mustaches shall be clean and neatly kept.  Extreme hair colors, hairstyles, and hair ornaments should not be worn in a professional health care setting. (as long as I stay away from "sun-in" I should be "a ok" with this one)

-Cosmetics should be used in moderation. (I wear less and less...its just too HOT)

-Perfumes, colognes or heavy fragrances should not be worn, as many patients and staff members are offended, become nauseated or experience respiratory distress when exposed to chemical scents or odors. (Thank you for this one...Especially my first trimester this stuff was awful!  Save that smelly stuff for your date night)

-Undergarments: Appropriate undergarments must be worn under uniforms and must not be distinguishable through attire. (It is kind of like the warning labels on electronics...someone had to try it for those labels to exist.  I wonder who didn't do this....)

-Non-direct patient care employees will wear professional business attire which is clean, neat and conservative. (Don't worry, I'm not going to come to work with my baby bump hanging out although it is a 100 degrees)

-The following will be considered unprofessional, inappropriate attire:
1. T-shirts and sweatshirts (worn as an outer garment)-no, you can't wear your sorority and fraternity shirts to work people!
2. Isolation gowns or patient gowns (who does this???)
3. Recreational attire including exercise/jogging shorts or sports outfits-I don't think I've owned a pair of "jogging shorts" since the 80's...I imagine these as the ones with the R on the bottom, and they come to your knees.
4. Mini skirts, sun dresses, halter tops, tank tops-I get these, but sun dresses? I may be in violation
5. Blue denim jeans and pants made of spandex or lycra material-no leggings??? My personal fav
6. Party clothes such as glitter, sequins, or other evening attire-Who did this????  Does Tina Turner work here?
7. "Revealing" clothes such as low-cut, sheer, see-through, or tight/form fitting attire-The bigger I get the more in violation I come of this rule. 
8. Leather clothing-Don't worry...I don't own any
9. Dark glasses (except for documented medical reason)-you mean I can't wear my Jackie O's to a meeting?
10. Head wear including hats, sweatbands, and bandannas-man, I was hoping to wear one of these to catch the sweat during meetings (especially those meeting I have not control over the thermostat)....guess I'll go to plan "B."

-Hosiery is encouraged. Socks may be worn with slacks. (this must only apply to the winter months...I've been in violation for sometime...nothing is worse than sweating in hose....)

-Footwear/Shoes: Shoes worn by direct patient care employees must be clean, well kept (with laces tied) and should have an enclosed toe. So I guess the day I wear Jack Rogers, I'm technically not in any patient areas....

Car Seat Check

While Tillman's Mimi was in town last week (with a van) we made the voyage up to Babies R Us.  We went Friday night late shopping after dinner at Coast!

One of the things we picked up was a car seat.  We chose the Graco Snugride 35 Infant Car Seat - Laguna Bay.  When we originally registered, we just looked at what we thought would be a nice color.  Really, we didn't pay much attention to the safety aspects and consumer ratings.  This particular seat is good for a child up to 35 lbs. and all the consumer reviews seem positive so far.

I wanted to make sure it was a good and safe one too.  I contacted our local Safe Kids coordinator, and here is what she said about car seats and when parents should have them installed in their cars. 

"As far as an ideal time to have your seat checked, there is no guideline, but I wouldn’t wait until the last minute. Ideally, when you have the seat checked for installation, the technician would install it and then ask you (or your husband) to install it again before you leave, so it isn’t necessary for you to have both cars/bases when you go. The “job” of our techs is to teach parents and caregivers how to do it so they feel confident in doing it themselves on their own, not to just install it for them.


The seat you got is very popular and parents love it. It is user friendly and easy to install in most vehicles. The thing with car seats is that they are all tested and have to follow the same stringent guidelines before going out on the market. So, we always tell parents that the best car seat is the one that fits your child, your vehicle, and you will use correctly every time. I would recommend you setting up an appointment with Katie Pohlman to have your seat checked (I live in the West Ashley area). She is VERY experienced and really takes her time with making sure you are comfortable with installing your seat before you leave. Her number is 402-6764, she works at Rick Hendrick Dodge on Savannah Hwy, but no worries…she won’t pressure you into a new car!"

Special Delivery

I think the little graphic above is great for Tillman!  However, something else is also arriving at MUSC in September--New Labor and Delivery Suites!  Yippee!  They will be ready when I deliver.  MUSC Labor and Delivery unit renovation project is currently underway! Their Special Delivery of new Labor and Delivery Birthing Suites, Room Service Dining, and State-of-the-Art Equipment are due fall 2010.

A few weeks ago, I took a tour of the unit.  The nurse manager of the unit showed me around, and I asked her a few questions of what to expect the day of delivery.  It was really good to see the room and meet some of the people, so when I deliver I won't be as anxious (hopefully).

Labor and Delivery At MUSC- Day of Delivery

See video on MUSChealth.com-click here

Labor and Delivery At MUSC- Room Renovations and Tour

See video on MUSChealth.com-click here

Labor & Delivery At MUSC- Birth Plan FAQ's

See video on MUSChealth.com-click here

My Baby of Blue is 32 (weeks)

Ok...so I'm not too much of a poet!  I tried....

Our house over the past week has been invaded by baby blue (the color).  Between washing all the hand-me-downs and new outfits from the shower our living room and kitchen are a sea of blue!  I finally put away all of Tillman's clothes last night (0-3 months to start with).  We decided from 0 to 3 months he would live downstairs (we may transition him sooner...don't judge).  Fortunately, we have a armoire in our front room (right outside our bedroom) that only has a TV in it (no cable to the TV, so we never watch it).  The drawers have never been filled, so now Tillman will have a dresser down stairs for all of his things until we venture to make the big move to his nursery. 

This boy doesn't need anymore clothes.  I simply don't know where they would go!  He has a sock & hat, bib & burp cloth and two large clothes drawers.  The shelves of the armoire are filled with blankets!  Nick might be taking the TV out to the garage if we have to pack much more into it (a great problem to have; we certainly do appreciate every one's generosity)! 

Switching gears....

Here's what babycenter.com has to say about Tillman this week: "By now, your baby weighs 3.75 pounds (pick up a large jicama) and is about 16.7 inches long, taking up a lot of space in your uterus. You're gaining about a pound a week and roughly half of that goes right to your baby. In fact, he'll gain a third to half of his birth weight during the next 7 weeks as he fattens up for survival outside the womb. He now has toenails, fingernails, and real hair (or at least respectable peach fuzz). Her skin is becoming soft and smooth as he plumps up in preparation for birth."

So, in short, babycenter.com is telling me to get prepared for the "lbs!"  I say "bring it on."  I want to make sure Tillman catches up in the next 7 weeks, so we won't have to worry about his growth. 

Thank You!

I think those two words are not used often enough.  As you know from my post last week, I don't feel people are told "thank you" enough when they offer and/or do something for you.  This weekend I had my second shower.  We were back in my home town, Lexington, SC.  This shower was mostly family, close friends of my mom, and church folks.  It was a drop in shower, so people were coming and going while I was opening gifts.

In these type settings, it is hard to tell everyone "thank you" and visit with folks that have come out to see you and shower your upcoming "bundle of joy."  They see you open their gift, but beyond you saying "thank you" when opening the gift, that is pretty much as far as it goes that day.  Because of this type situation, I feel a strong need (only for myself) to write thank you notes immediately after the shower.  I think that writing a thank you note is a must, but sending it a day after the shower show that you really appreciate the gifts and everyone taking time to come to the shower.  Thank you notes is something I rarely "dilly dally!"  Yesterday, I woke up at 7AM and finished them around 11:30AM (of course, I took breaks in between) and dropped them off at the post office at 2PM.

When receiving a thank you note, I think most people think that is etiquette.  However, in order to make an impression upon the giver, one needs to go the extra mile.  If a person receives a note a month after the gift was given, they probably think "well, I'm sure glad she finally wrote that note!"  However, by sending it immediately, people sure are impressed!

Hand-Me-Downs

Growing up, I had (have) an older sister and older girl cousins.  We all lived around each other, so hand-me-downs were quite common.  I don't think I had a full wardrobe of my own until high school.  Tillman will be in the same fortune growing up, as he will be the youngest of 4 boys in my family and of 3 boys in Nick's family. 

My mother-in-law made a trip South this week, and she brought with her tubs and tubs of clothes for Tillman (all the way to toddler size).  Nick's sister generously gave us a lot of her two boys' clothes.  When "Mimi" made it in to town, we unloaded her van, and began to "plunder" through all the newborn clothes.  Little T already has more clothes than Nick and I combined! 

Nick's nephews (ages 8 and 6) also boxed up a tub of their toys for Tillman (Mimi says they call him "Baby Tillman").  They gave him some stuffed animals and some musical toys. 

Tillman also got an outdoor play set and a Pack N Play! 

Tillman's arrival is two months away, but if you were to come to our house, you certainly would know by the looks of our living room that a baby is on the way!

So, on this Fashion Friday think Hand-Me-Downs!!!

Growth Scan Video

On July 8th, I went for a growth scan at MUSC Prenatal Wellness Center (to see results click here).  Below is the video.  This three part video features me talking about why I was having it done, some footage of the scan, and then Dr. Newman explaining the findings.
Take a look!  If you have trouble seeing the YouTube version, click here to see it on MUSChealth.com.

Today I have my 31 week appointment.  I'm now seeing Dr. Villers every two weeks.  Also, tonight Nick and I go to the MUSC breastfeeding class.  Busy day of Tillman activities!

Special Treatment?

Last week during our travels to Ohio, I had several encounters in the airport.  All were very positive and really took both Nick and me by surprise.  The first was on our first flight. Since we booked our tickets at the last minute, Nick and I didn't sit beside each other.  It appeared as though I was traveling alone to anyone who got on the plane after us.  I was in the middle seat (yuck...of course).  I didn't speak to either of the two men beside me, but when the plane landed, everyone was out of their seats getting their stuff from the overhead bins.  The man on the aisle, said "I hope you don't mind, but I'd really like to get your bag for you."  In my head I was laughing because Nick was right behind me in the next row.  I said "oh sure, thank you!"  The aisle seat man seemed rather concerned with me and how I was going to carry this bag off the plane.  He nicely set the bag up for me, so I wouldn't have any troubles.  While getting off the plane, he kept looking back to make sure I was managing ok. Super nice guy!!!!

My second encounter in the airport was on the way back.  We had to hop the train in the Atlanta airport to get to the correct concorse for our connecting flight.  As soon as I stepped on the train, this lady in the back starting saying LOUDLY "Ma'am Ma'am...you need to come back here and sit down."  I said "ok." (It was in the handicap seating area.)  There I sat between two ladies.  Both who had children.  It was like I had sat down for "story time."  On the quick ride, they both gave me advice for the future and basically told me I would worry for the rest of my life!  The older lady said her daughter is 40, and she still worries about her all the time.  In fact, that is who she was traveling to see.

Other little things Nick noticed was when walking in the airport, people would just immediately get out of my way or move.  I think he really noticed this because I only was carrying my purse, and he had our luggage.  He was having to "bob and weave" through the crowd, as they gave him no space.  This was the same case when it came to boarding the plane.  I got to go 10-15 people ahead of Nick to board the plane simply because folks would just let me go ahead.  Meanwhile, Nick is in the back of the line waiting patiently!!

While this "special treatment" was very nice and much appreciated, I have certainly received some negative "special treatment" lately too.  For those who followed me on my other blog, Soirées & Shenanigans, know that I have to ride a bus into work everyday!  I don't mind this bus ride, but you certainly have to take care of yourself because in general, everyone is trying to get to where they are going without much regard for the neighbor (Isn't it strange that people are more courteous in an airport than a daily shuttle bus?)

Well, Monday I was "scurrying" to the bus and right when I got to the doors, the driver shut them in my face (literally...no exaggeration...it happened just liked that)!  I was like "oh well," but there was this other guys running and "flailing" his hands at the bus to stop for him.  Of course, I took advantage and got on the bus too.  I was thinking to myself, you'll stop for him, but not a pregnant lady (It is 100 degrees out here)?  When we got on, she was shaking her head and acting all mad she had to stop (I'm thinking to myself; has this women never had kids before...what is her problem?). 

I get off at the first stop and a man got off with me.  He came up to me while walking to my car to apologize for the bus driver.  He said "I can't believe she did that to you...you're pregnant!"  I told him I really appreciated his words.  Also I told him that if the "wrath" of a pregnant lady doesn't get to her then certainly Karma will!!!

Special treatment to those in certain stages of their lives (pregnant, old, handicap, etc) is nice and certainly very appreciated; it is something each of us must appreciate when it is given.  For as if you don't, then you'll be treated with a door shutting in your face with no regard!  I make sure to say an extra thank you to everyone who provides that little extra special treatment.  Also, I make sure to "pay it forward" to other.  One key point in closing (especially to ladies), don't ever turn down someone for trying to do something nice (offer you a seat, carry something heavy, etc), once this person is turned down multiple times, they feel no one needs help, and there is not point to be curteous anymore.  They turn in to the cold hearted bus drivers.  Do you really want your life to be filled with those type people?  I'm sure your answer is NO...accept the offer everytime and say THANK YOU!

31 Weeks

Here's the update from babycenter.com "This week, your baby measures over 16 inches long. He weighs about 3.3 pounds (try carrying four navel oranges) and is heading into a growth spurt. He can turn his head from side to side, and his arms, legs, and body are beginning to plump out as needed fat accumulates underneath his skin. He's probably moving a lot, too, so you may have trouble sleeping because your baby's kicks and somersaults keep you up. Take comfort: All this moving is a sign that your baby is active and healthy."

Master Tillman has certainly been active this week.  I'm starting to feel him more and more especially at night, although he is not effecting my sleep (yet).  When we saw him at his last ultrasound, his little cheeks started to "plump up."  There was a big difference in his cheeks from the 12 week ultrasound. 

As far as my body changes, I do feel like I am getting a bigger belly.  I think I have gained somewhere between 22-25 lbs thus far.  The line that most ladies get down the middle of the belly is starting to appear (what is that called?).  Thankfully, no signs of stretch marks yet (no new ones at least).  The biggest change with me is my temperature gage...man, I am always hot!

Another noticeable change is my energy level.  As you see by this post, I have been actively cleaning out and selling some of our miscellaneous stuff on Craigslist (type 5586 in search box to see our loot for sell).  I also put up some insulation (a bag and a half...Yes, Mom. I wear a mask.) in the alcoves of Tillman's room (I want to get 3 more bags to finish that off), installed some switch plate covers that have insulation, and have been getting the house ready for Tillman's Mimi (Nick's mom) to visit later this week.  Oh, and I'm also on an air freshener kick.  I purchased some for the house and even one for my car!  Nick asked last night "how we could turn them down?" (I like them!)

Nick and I have also been chatting a lot about the delivery experience.  He has been reading (book titles to come) some books that came from a friend who had all three children at home (two water births and one "land" birth).  These books have really been good.  They help us see another side of the delivery experience outside of the sterile environment of the typical hospital birthing experience.  We hope to marry the two concepts for our experience.  Of course, we are having Tillman in the hospital, but I do think we can have a more comfortable experience just by reading and knowing more.  This will help us feel more in control of our experience.

Here's what pregnant me looks like at 31 weeks!

Making Room For Tillman

I've been doing a little bit of cleaning out this morning (I have been adding and editing this post since Saturday morning).  I generally hate to part with things because everything has a story and/or a memory attached, but there come a time when you need more room (you know like when a baby is coming). 

One of my favorite ways to sell things is on Craigslist (type 5586 in search box to see what we're selling)!  Below are a few photos of the items for sale.  Email or comment if you are interested in any of these things.  Mention you heard about it on Mrs. Pregnant in the Lowcountry!

Thomasville Queen Bedding (reversiable)

Bedside floating shelving

SOLD

SOLD

Bedding & Window Treatments

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

Hot in...so hot in here....

In case you don't get the title reference, I'm singing Nelly in my head (So hot in here).

These words are something I say daily!  Before carrying this 2 lbs 8ozs "bundle of joy" we call Tillman, I used to always be cold and have to carry a cardigan anytime we went to eat out.  Completely not the case anymore!  This is the first time in my life that I wear sleeveless, and I'm still hot.  I've even gotten to where I dislike wearing closed toed shoes (yuck...my feet sweat...is that normal?). 

I'm not hot all the time, but it just comes over me.  My clothes start sticking to me, I get red in the face, and for those who know me know what I'm taking about, I blotch!  I consider these hot flashes, but I have no idea. 

So for this fashion Friday post, I simply say "Hot in....so hot in here..." 
-Paints are a struggle, but thank goodness for linen!

-Dresses are great, but lets face it ladies, your legs stick together in those (if yours don't, then you must be 100 lbs or less)!  Sleeveless dresses make it worth putting one on.

-Shorts are great, not exactly the dress code for work.  These are my weekend choice.

-Tank Top maternity shirts-the best!  Although, I don't understand why they are made out of material that you must IRON...nuts!

-Open toed shoes-the best!  Not exactly dress code for work, but got to love Jack Roger sandals.  They look dress enough, but are still a flip flop.  Although, Rainbows are the best!

Nick's comments after reading my post..."Good post. I do agree. There has been many times where the car has been too close to a meat locker or Blue Bell freezer." (spoken from a true pregnant lady's husband)

Travel

This week we had some unexpected travel since we came to Ohio for Nick's grandmother's funeral.  We were certainly glad we came, but wanted to check with Dr. Villers before planning.  At first, I thought it was no problem to travel, but after telling people of our plans, we kept getting asked "are you sure you can travel?" 

Dr. Villers said it is fine to travel until 36 weeks.  The only issue with traveling with a normal pregnancy is you take the risk of having to deliver elsewhere if something were to occur.  As long as you're willing to take that option, then there is no risk.  Of course, most people want to play it safe (including me).

A few of the airlines require you have a physician note to travel after 36 weeks.  However, most airlines leave it up to your judgement.  At first, we were just going to take the long drive, but that was really going to be "taxing" on us both, so we researched flights.  After doing the math of the expenses of flight vs. driving, we decided on a combo of driving and flying.

Our travels included, driving up to Columbia on Monday night.  We stayed with my parents to have some of the drive behind us.  We woke up on Tuesday and drove to Charlotte, NC.  We hop a flight from Charlotte to Ohio.  This way was a lot less drive and a lot less expensive (plane tickets out of Charleston are through the roof...can't wait for Southwest!).

We're traveling back today, so wish us luck on having a smooth travel back to the Lowcountry!

Generations

At Tillman's first baby shower in May, Nick two grandmothers attended. Nick and I were so glad that we got this picture of him with his two grandmothers. You never know when will be the last to see someone, and it is at these moments that I think about cherishing every moment as it is our last.


On Sunday, we got the news that Nick's paternal Grandmother had passed away (one on the right...lime and white shirt). We were very glad that we got to see her when she was doing well. I actually spent a long time talking to both grandmothers at the shower while Nick and the guys grilled out.

Although Tillman will not get to meet one of his Great Grandmothers, I am very glad that she knew about him and was excited about his arrival in September. This weekend I went plundering back through the gifts from the shower to find what she had given Tillman. We'll make sure to keep these items to share with Tillman and show him through pictures who is Great Grandmother was.
Life is very precious, and you just never know when will be the last time you'll see someone. Please keep Nick's family in your prays as we lay his Grandmother to rest today.

I'm in my 30's...

Today starts the true count down to Tillman's delivery.  I'm 30 weeks today (10 weeks to go)!  As you can see from the picture above, my baby bump is starting to get larger by the day!  I'm still feeling really good and have lots of energy, which is good because Nick and I have certainly been on the go and aren't slowing down for a few weeks.

Here's what Babycenter.com has to say about Tillman this week-"Your baby's about 15.7 inches long now, and he weighs almost 3 pounds (like a head of cabbage....Tillman was at 2 lbs 8 ozs on Thursday). A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds him, but that volume will decrease as he gets bigger and takes up more room in your uterus. His eyesight continues to develop, though it's not very keen; even after he's born, he'll keep his eyes closed for a good part of the day. When he does open them, he'll respond to changes in light but will have 20/400 vision — which means he can only make out objects a few inches from her face. (Normal adult vision is 20/20.)"

Tillman, Are you a Momma's or Daddy's boy?

We got a good look at Tillman at Thursday's Ultrasound.  The 3D images of his face really help us get to know the little guy a little more.  There was a student following the ultrasound tech the day of the growth study.  She sat beside the ultrasound tech and observed how she maneuvered the "wand" over my belly to get the shots needed for the scan.

When our tech went to go discuss the findings with the physician reading the reports, the student "played around/learned" on my belly for a while.  She actually got some GREAT 3D shots of Tillman.  We walked away from the appointment with TONS of photos of him. 

If you know me at all, you know I over-analysis things to death (my poor husband).  I has studying the photos when I got home on Thursday.  I tried to get Nick involved in this activity, but he wasn't having it.  I was pointing out his nose, his chin, his lips and other parts that I thought Tillman favored us. 

From the first Ultrasound, I noticed Tillman's chin.  That is totally Nick!  See for yourself.  He's a Daddy's boy when it comes to his profile, lips and chin.

One of our engagement photos

Check out Nick's profile vs Tillman's

My parents visited us this weekend.  After my Mom looked at the photos, she said "he has your nose."  I really couldn't see it, but after looking at my Dad, I felt like he totally has my family's nose.  Also, he has the crease under his nose down to the middle of his lip.  I have one of those too!

Bridal picture for the newspapers

Check out my nose vs Tillman's

During the growth study, the Ultrasound Tech said that his brain was of average size.  We were jokingly saying we wish we could tell if Tillman was going to be smart.  Nick "spouts off" and said "well I sure hope he is smart because the way he is growing, it doesn't look like we have a football player on our hands." (Tillman is under weight and size from normal babies at his gestational age).

It was very exciting to get to see Tillman again.  I am sure he will look different when he is born and will change everyday after.  Having these moments with him to observe him in his "happy place" helps me get to know the little guy a little more and gets me even more excited for September!

Growth Study Results

Tillman was not much into being on camera yesterday.  The majority of the pictures were of him with his hands in his face.  The picture above certainly looks like he is tired of the "Paparazzi!"

The reason for the ultrasound was to check on his growth.  My belly growth has been consistently about two weeks behind, so the study was to see if he is growing as he should.  As Dr. Villers explains the growth study- "A growth study is just to see how much the baby weighs and how much it has grown since your last ultrasound. We have standards to compare the baby to which helps us determine if the baby is growing at an expected rate."

Master Tillman is in the 27th percentile for weight.  The majority of his "lag behind" comes from abdominal growth.  His femur length is also behind, but I have pretty short legs, and Nick doesn't have long legs either.  An average baby is in the 50th percentile.  Tillman at 29 weeks weighs 2 lbs 8 ozs.  All his little pieces and parts are in place, and fluid levels are good.  The blood flow in the umbilical cord is good, so they don't have any worry about him getting nutrition. 

While they were testing the flow through the umbilical cord, Tillman was doing "practice breathing."  This is normal and good!  The ultrasound tech let us listen to him while he "preformed!"

He had plenty of fetal movement during the study, so I think that indicates that he is "thriving."  His heart rate was 144 bpm, and that was completely normal.

Comments from the physician report-"A repeat ultrasound of this single intrauterine pregnancy was preformed. The anatomic survey was abbreviated today but reported as normal on previous exam.  The amniotic fluid volume was normal. Appropriate interval growth was noted. The AC (Abdominal Circumference) was < 5th percentile on today's scan. EFW (Estimated Fetal Wight) was 2lbs 8ozs, placing the fetus at the 27th percentile. Umbilical artery Dopplers and MAC Dopplers were preformed with normal S/D ratio.  BPP (Biophysical Profile) was 8/8."

(In this picture his hand was chopped off by a sound wave.

Notice the nub?  An ultrasound is made up of sound waves. 

I think he looks like Captain Hook!)

We will go back in one month for a follow up to check on the little guy's growth!  All and all, a good visit at MUSC's Prenatal Wellness Center!

Mommyhood...A special society?

I'm switching things up this week.  Fashion Friday is a day early due to my growth study and 29th week appointment being this afternoon.  I'll be blogging tomorrow with an update from both appointments.

Mommyhood-I guess that is what I am joining in September.  There are some that say, you're not a mom until your child arrives, but I think ladies are inducted into the Mommyhood Society as soon as the belly starts to sprout (Nick irks me when he calls it Buddha...ugh)!  The reason being is this is when the advice, stories, and the best part, maternity clothing offers begin!

I have been very fortunate to not have to purchase a whole new wardrobe during this time.  I'm very grateful to my friends, Jennifer and Sarah, and my cousin, Erica, who gave me tons of clothes from their pregnancies.  Just this weekend, I got an over flowing bag from Erica (she refers to maternity cloths sharing as the "borrowing-chain.").  When I showed up with the clothes, Nick said "this is the one time all women come together."  He goes on to say "it is like you've joined a society or something."  I must say, I agree with him.  The clothes offering is like being inducted into the Society of Mommyhood (also these maternity (big tent) shirts make me think of no more bikinis too...but I digress)!

The one thing all of these ladies mentioned to me is that other mothers were so generous to them that they would like to pass along the favor.  This warm welcome into Mommyhood certainly gives me the feeling to pass along / pay it forward to future moms.



 

My Birth Plan

As I mentioned in this post.  I was creating a birth plan for Tillman.  Nick and I truly don't know what to expect, but there are some concerns I have and other things that I want to make sure happen the way I always envisioned.  A birth plan is a way for us to think about our wishes and fears in advance and prepare the staff that will be taking care of us when Tillman is born.

Here are the items I checked as wanting to occur during the hospital stay.

*This is only a plan.  If something goes wrong, I will rely on the hospital staff to tell me what is safe.  I, by no means, want my wishes to come before the safety of Tillman or me.  I am very thankful to be in the hands of the MUSC staff that are the best trained in high risk situations in the Lowcountry!

Labor:
-I would like to be free to walk around during early labor.
-I wish to be able to move around and change position at will throughout labor.
-I would like the environment to be kept as quiet as possible.
-I would like the lights in the room to be kept low during my labor.
-I would prefer to keep the number of vaginal exams to a minimum. (can I add 5 exclamation points to this one?)

Anesthesia/Pain Medication:
-I would like to be asked if I would like to have narcotic pain relief.
-I would like to have a standard epidural.
Comments: I want to be given my options around these (ie how long I can wait to receive it, know all options, and meet Anesthesiologist)

Cesaeran:
*I don't plan to go this route, but I don't think many women have a choice when it come to the health of the baby.  A birth plan is good time to think about this possibility in advance.
-If a Cesarean delivery is indicated, I would like to be fully informed and to participate in the decision-making process.
-I would like to (coach) present at all times if the baby requires a Cesarean delivery.

Epistotomy:
*The majority of people I have spoken to have ripped (ouch!).  It seems pretty inevitable.  However, Nick has a friend who mention some herbs to take to avoid this from happening.  I'm trying to find out those herbs, so I can review them with Dr. Villers.
-I would prefer not to have an episiotomy unless absolutely required for the baby’s safety.

-I am hoping to protect the perineum. I am practicing ahead of time by squatting, doing Kegel exercises and perineal massage. (I got an email about this....need to talk to Dr. Villers about this at my next appointment)
-I would appreciate guidance in when to push and when to stop pushing so the perineum can stretch.
-If possible, I would like to use perineal massage to help avoid the need for an episiotomy.

Delivery of Baby:
-I would like to be allowed to choose the position in which I give birth, including
-I would like Nick and /or nurses to support me and my legs as necessary during the pushing stage.
-I would like to try to deliver in a squatting position, using (coach) or a squatting bar for support.
-Even if I am fully dilated, and assuming the baby is not in distress, I would like to try to wait until I feel the urge to push before beginning the pushing phase.
-I would appreciate having the room lights turned low for the actual delivery.
-I would appreciate having the room as quiet as possible when the baby is born.
-I would like to have the baby placed on my stomach/chest immediately after delivery.
Comments: If possible, I'd like to breast feed and hold my baby right after birth before taken away to be fully cleaned and eye meds are put in.

After Delivery of Baby:
-I would like to have Nick cut the cord.
-I would like to hold the baby while I deliver the placenta and any tissue repairs are made.
-I would like to hold the baby for at least fifteen minutes before (he/she) is photographed, examined, etc.
-I would like to have the baby evaluated and bathed in my presence.
-I plan to keep the baby near me following birth and would appreciate if the evaluation of the baby can be done with the baby on my abdomen, with both of us covered by a warm blanket, unless there is an unusual situation.
-If the baby must be taken from me to receive medical treatment, (coach) or some other person, I designate will accompany the baby at all times.
-I would prefer to hold the baby rather than have (him/her) placed under heat lamps.
-I would like to delay the eye medication for the baby until a couple hours after birth.
Comments: All of these are my wishes, but don't want to jeopardize his safety.

Breastfeeding
-I plan to breastfeed the baby and would like to begin nursing very shortly after birth.
-Unless medically necessary, I do not wish to have any bottles given to the baby
-I would like more information about breastfeeding.
Comments: I'd like to be visited by an Lactation Consultant or nurse specializing in breastfeeding to hear tips and to make sure my technique is correct. This is one of the most important things to me.

Circumcision
-I would like to discuss options for pain management during the circumcision
Comments: We'd like for him to be circumcised. I would like to be updated of when it is done and how it went. If possible, husband, Nick, would like to stay with baby.

29 Weeks

Here's the what babycenter.com says about Tillman at 29 weeks..."Your baby now weighs about 2 1/2 pounds (like a butternut squash) and is a tad over 15 inches long from head to heel. His muscles and lungs are continuing to mature, and his head is growing bigger to make room for his developing brain. To meet his increasing nutritional demands, you'll need plenty of protein, vitamins C, folic acid, and iron. And because his bones are soaking up lots of calcium, be sure to drink your milk (or find another good source of calcium, such as cheese, yogurt, or enriched orange juice). This trimester, about 250 milligrams of calcium are deposited in your baby's hardening skeleton each day."

After reading about our growing boy this week, I sure am glad I went to the store to purchase some supplemental vitamins.  I am now on Prenate Elite for my prenatal vitamin, but Dr. Villers recommended also taking Vitamin D and Calcium.  Honestly, she mentioned it about a month ago, but I just got around to getting to Earth Fair to purchase. 

I purchased Solaray Dietary Supplement's Cal-Mag Citrate.  It has 400 IU of Vitamin D, 1,000 Mg of Cal, and 500 mg of Mag.  From the sounds of Tillman's 29th week and beyond, I'm glad we'll be sharing this 1,000 Mg of Cal! 
I am also taking Nordic Natural-Complete Omega 3-6-9 since I found out I was expecting.  Dr. Villers suggested taking an extra Omega 3 supplement with my prenatal vitamin throughout my pregnancy.  This product  contains 30 IU of E, 564 mg of Omega 3, 224 mg of Omega 6, and 244 mg of Omega 9.  I've only been taking one pill a day, but I noticed the "serving size" is two pills to receive the benefit of the listed.  I'm considering bumping up to two pills a day on this one.  The great thing about this pill is that it has a lemon favor instead of the yucky fish smell and taste!

Pediatricians can be fashionable?

Today is supposed to be fashion Friday on the blog, but I just can't think of any thing fashionable to chat about.  I have the holiday weekend and pediatricians on the brain. 

This week we interviewed a Pediatrician, Dr. Rhodes with Parkwood Pediatrics, for Tillman's care (no practice website...ugh!).  He came highly recommended by a friend.  When calling the practice, they offered an appointment to meet Dr. Rhodes, so we went on Wednesday.  

He is a native of Charleston and has lived in the area all his life (except when he went off to school and residency).  We appreciated him taking the time to chat with us and to address a few of our concerns regarding childhood shots (mostly the un-backed research of these shots causing or attributing to Autism).  The news coverage of this has been scarey, but he had a very good thoughts on why there is a rise of Autism in society, which steared the the cause to more envirnomental things (TV, video, TVs in the mini vans, etc).  He mentioned that many disorders that used to go undiagnosised or considered kids with behavior problems are now considered in the Autistic spectrum.  Autism used to be a very finite disorder, and now it is more of a spectrum of behaviors (the difference between a single gun shot and a shot gun blast).

We really appreciated his time.

Another practice that came highly recommended was Coastal Pediatrics.  The good thing about this practice is I have worked with one of the physicians, Kara Bleavens Huncik, and one of the practitioners, Beth Thelan, in the past.  A familiar face is always a good thing!  In fact, Nick has met both of these ladies before too, so that should make it more comfortable for the both of us.  I'll be looking into this practice this week. 

I think between these two highly recommended practices, we'll find the right fit for Tillman's care.

Happy 4th of July, and please keep Baby Cohen's family in your thoughts and prayers.

A Blogging Day of Silence for Cohen

July 1st, today, Megan and Brent will be holding Cohen’s memorial service. The moment of silence is an opportunity for Megan’s blog community to stand behind her and support her on this difficult day. Linking up will give Megan a chance to see the support at a glance.

Please pray for Cohen's family today.