3rd Anniversary + Dinner at Peninsula Grill = Tillman's 1st Babysitter

On November 6th, we went out for our Anniversary dinner.  My friend, Mary-Margaret, kept Tillman for us, so we could enjoy a date night!  As you can see by his photos, he just loved being with Mary-Margaret!  You should also note he is in his swing.  Man, does he love that thing (attention Mrs. Pregnants-this is must have baby item)! 

Our night was just perfect.....

well....

until 2AM....

Let me preface this by saying-Nick has only seen me get sick 3 times since we have been married (twice while pregnant...so really only 1 time).  My November 6th meal at Peninsula Grill was the 3rd time (yes ladies, the "throw up" kind of sick).  I woke up at 11PM with a bad feeling and thinking this is not going to be a good night.  Boy was I right.  By 2AM my 5 star Peninsula Grill dinner was in the toilet. 

***Food poising or any kind of food that doesn't "agree" with me is of top concern because what I eat, Tillman eats.  I wasn't sure what to do after I got sick.  Was I to still breastfeed or "pump and dump?" I was concerned that Tillman was going to be the next to get sick. 

I feel the need to tell you about this because I called Peninsula Grill the next day.  I called in good spirit to tell them what happened, and I followed up my concern of getting sick with "I don't expect anything, just wanted to let you know."  Honestly I didn't expect anything just wanted them to check the goat cheese, so someone else didn't experience the same thing.  The Peninsula Grill  manager, Richard, was a first class JERK!  He informed me that all of their products are ordered fresh and there was nothing wrong with their food...basically saying I had a weak stomach or something...  Regardless if that was the case of a weak stomach or not, I've eaten my fair share of McDonald's food, and it has never made me sick, so the "fresh" ingredients at Peninsula Grill sure shouldn't!

He ended the conversation with not "I'm sorry.  Thank you for letting us know, I will make sure to look over our stock."  BUT with, "If you ever want to dine at Peninsula Grill again, I can assist you with reservations!"  (We didn't have trouble getting reservations the day of, so I don't think we'll have trouble getting them in the future...no, we won't be back.)  I didn't say anything to him after the reservation comment, as it wasn't worth my time. 

So, if you are wondering about the Peninsula Grill, I personally think it is the worst restaurant in Charleston!  As we were eating our meal (before getting sick), we didn't think their steak was as good as Oak and Grill 225.  Not sure what all the hype is about over Peninsula Grill, but save your money and go to Oak or Grill 225.

Oh, and for those wondering if the 3rd time getting "icky" sick was from me being pregnant again, the answer is no!  But, Nick and I both laughed about the possibility.  Tillman and that child would be in the same grade in school....weird!

Cluster Feeding...Growth Spurt...or what?

More email exchanges with the MUSC Lactation Consultant....
I wish I had more time to write about my experience, but figured sharing emails I have exchanged will give you insight to how Tillman and I are doing.  I really don't intend for this to be a lactation blog, but breastfeeding seems to be 90% of where my energy is going these days (this breastfeeding thing is not easy!).  As for the other 10% of energy, it goes to sleep!  Nick has been cooking, which has been awesome! 

Sent: Tuesday, October 12, 2010 8:50 PM
Subject: feedings

I think Tillman is cluster feeding, but not sure I even know what that is. He has been feeding for the past 60 hours all the time...ever 20 mins or so. He has only slept for two 2 hour stretches during that time. He is always at the breast....exhausting.
Is there anything I can do better to get him more satisfied?
Does this mean I am not making enough to allow him sleep? Low milk supply? (I did purchase some milk thistle and red raspberry leave pills....are they ok to take? A friend mentioned these as helping with the quality of milk produced)
I have no idea if he is gaining weight since we haven't been to the doctor, but he has plenty of wet and soiled diapers.
How will I increase my milk supply to get ahead of him, so I can store to go back to work? I feel like he needs everything I make and maybe more.
Also, he seem mighty gassy. He doesn't really burp, but does have the gas. I often wonder if that is what is keeping him up. We did purchase some mylicon today and gave him his first dose tonight.
Thanks so much for your support!
Meredith

Sent: Wednesday, October 13, 2010 1:59 PM
Subject: RE: feedings

Meredith,
Well, let's see. This sounds more like a growth spurt which does usually involve cluster feeding. He is a month. They are often at 2 and 6 weeks but can be anytime. If you can survive, I would watch it for the next 24 hours to see if there is a shift.
The capsules are fine. Blessed Thistle is what is in Mother's Milk tea which is what I used. You can also try fenugreek 1000 mg three times a day along with the milk thistle/red raspberry leave pills. They work well together. It does not seem to me to be a problem but watch it for 24 more hours and let me know. During growth spurts, infants are trying to cause your body to produce more milk to meet the growing needs of the infant.
Being able to store up extra milk can be challenging even for mothers who are making lots of milk. The infant is usually breastfeeding on demand, he empties the breasts and then when you pump it is only 5-15 ml. But this is just the way it is. Two weeks before you start back to work, pump for 10 minutes after 2-4 breastfeeding sessions per day. Then you will add them all together to make a feed. Just because you do not get much milk does not mean that you are not making enough.
Let me know tomorrow if he is still breastfeeding non-stop. I sure hope you slept for those 2 2 hours stretches! There is one drug we prescribe for low milk supply but I do not think you need that.
Rest when you can.
MUSC Lactation Service

Polling the Audiance

On the right side of the blog, you'll see I'm taking a poll about the blog.  Please vote!  I'm curious if I should continue to blog on Mrs. Pregnant in the Lowcountry or transition the blog to Mrs. Lowcountry Momma.  Let me hear from you.  I've already secured the "Momma" url.

I do see that 10 readers have responded....thank you!!!

Another Letter of Encouragement! (Thanks to all my mom readers)

First let me say, thank you to everyone who reads. I often wonder if I am talking to myself or if people are actually reading and following (my readers don't seem to be the commenting type (shame, shame folks!)). It has been so nice to receive emails of encouragement and congratulations since Tillman arrived from you. Also, it has been wonderful to get to know you through email as well. Thanks so much!

Mom Reader-Letter of Encouragement with Breastfeeding (I have found that everyone has a unique story with breastfeeding. It isn't easy, and it isn't the "dreamy" picture they paint in the "books" and classes." It is HARD, TIRING & FRUSTRATING (at times). I hope that to-be-moms, breastfeeding moms, etc. read all of these mom letters of encouragement A. to know it is hard. B. to know there is more than one way of doing things besides text book style. C. to know you are not alone if you have troubles with feeding or take a different route to nursing your child.)

Fri, Sep 24, 2010 at 12:25 PM

I'll tell you what I did about breastfeeding - PUMPED! My daughter was born 6 weeks early (at MUSC) and was not a good latcher - it took 6 days for my milk to really come in, so while she was in NICU, they supplemented a little along with the 1/2 oz I could occassionally muster up with the pump. She had gone from 5.4 lbs to 4.8 lbs when she left the hospital a week later. I had to use a nipple guard when feeding- that's the only way she'd get any milk. I suffered through "breastfeeding bootcamp" for about 6 weeks (which included HOURS of cluster feeding at night) and finally came to the realization I would still feed her strictly breastmilk, but in a bottle. I went back to work when she was 7 weeks old and started pumping 6-7 times a day and then after several months was able to "train" my body to produce what she needed and then some. We were able to make it 6 months on strictly breast milk and had a month supply in the freezer to boot. Six years ago I couldn't find any other moms that did what I did, so at first I felt a little guilty.

Now, my son was a different story - he was an aggressive latcher (I wanted to thump that sweet hungry little head) and my milk came gushing out the day he was born (5 weeks early). I started strictly pumping with him at 3 weeks and we were both happier people since he didn't have to listen to me sob the whole time he ate :-) . Unfortunately I got a horrible UTI that took 3 weeks to cure when he was 4.5 months old and my milk supply completely dried up, despite all efforts to keep it going. Luckily I had about a month supply in the freezer for him as well.

Funny how motherhood makes most topics open for conversation with people you barely know :-) I have several friends that say it gets much easier after 6-8 weeks. I just thought I'd shed light on another way of breastfeeding (or "breastmilking")!

Best of luck with your journey!

It is nice to know I'm not alone

After yesterday's post about breastfeeding, I received two emails from "mom readers" who had the same issues with their children.  It sure does feel good to know Tillman and I are not alone. 
I look forward to meeting with the lactation consultant and the pediatrician today.  Hopefully, between the two appointment, we will see much progress with Tillman's feeding.

Here are excepts from the "mom reader" emails I received.  I think it is important to share these.  Not only for my readers who are to-be-moms, moms who may have had lots of trouble with breastfeeding and had to seek alternative and moms who are up right now (1AM) Goggling this very topic to find answers.

side note: I get hits everyday on the topics I write about each day from Goggle.  I have a traffic tracker on the blog to tell me how people arrived at the blog: key word searches, from Facebook, Goggle, etc.  Some of my most popular topics are the 9 week ultrasound, Slushy craving, the cheer, "my back aches my skirts too tight," in light of the latest news story regarding it this post has been visited by thousands of people (check out comments on that post), and growth scan just to name a few.

Email excerpts:
"I just read your latest blog post. I went through the EXACT same thing with "A." She finally dropped down to the 3rd percentile. It was VERY scary. We supplemented with formula every now and then even at newborn stage, and it never stopped her breastfeeding progress (when it finally took off). We started by supplementing in the hospital. Because I was in labor for 15 hours, and because my water broke at 5 pm but had no contractions (similar to you), I had had NO sleep in almost 48 hours. By the time our first night with her rolled around, I was shaking, crying, and completely beside myself. We decided for her to stay in the nursery and they cup fed her. The next night they brought her to me once during the night. Other than in the hospital, she never had straight formula - it was always formula/breast milk mix....in the hospital, the lactation consultant put water (I think) on my nipple to get "A" to suction better with a syringe and a tube attached to it. So, we took that little thing home, not realizing what we were doing or why we may need it. We fed her - finger fed her - with that tube and my breastmilk for about 6 days....We still gave her a bottle at night - we wanted her to be good and full, and it was always both formula and breastmilk - remember formula digests more slowly than breastmilk. I also didn't want her to become familiar with having to nurse to sleep. That would just be something else to have to break later....Anyway, I just wanted to share with you that I had been through the exact same thing. Don't freak out about it. I breastfed "A" for over 10 months and never regret continuing trying."

" I read your blog on breastfeeding and Tillman gaining weight and wanted to let you know we went through the same thing when I began to breastfeed. The first few weeks were nicknamed by me and my mom as "breastfeeding bootcamp". It takes a ton of work, but you will get in a groove soon and it will become like second nature. Because '"C" was so little they needed her to gain weight rapidly in the beginning so my pediatrician told me that no matter what I had to feed her every two to three hours no matter what. I had to wait until she weighed a little more before I was breastfeeding on demand. Anyway, I'm going to keep checking your blog on your progress and just know that it will become easy soon. The beginning is always hard because you just aren't sure of how much milk they are getting. Oh and one more thing, I breastfed "C" until she was done and then had to pump afterward to not get engorged. You do NOT want a breast infection. It is the worst!! Hang in there! xoxoox"

To my "mom readers" thank you for your emails and encouragement.  It sure is nice to know I'm not alone, and I hope by including your advice to me in this post will help a mom who is up in the middle of the night Googling this same topic!

Coburg don't have nothin' on me!

Tillman is breastfeeding, but I must say it is not easy.  It is just like anything in life worth working for-a college degree, running a marathon, a master's degree, etc.  I have done all of those, so this is just the challenges of being a good mom, and it is worth working for and not giving up.

We went to his first pediatican appointment yesterday.  Here is some email exchanges I had with the MUSC lacation services after his appointment.  Lacatation consultants are the best resource for mom-baby success with breastfeeding.  Dr. Villers told me before I delivered "you are a mom, and have no idea how to be a mom.  Tillman is a baby, and he has no idea how to be a baby.  It is a learning process you will go through together."  She couldn't be more right!


Email exchange:

From: Meredith
Sent: Thursday, September 23, 2010 2:08 AM
Subject: Feeding volumes

I need more of your advice.
Tillman went to the pediatrician today. They don't feel like he is getting enough to eat. She encourage me to talk to an Lactation Consultant about it and drink tons of water. We go back on Friday for a weight check. She says that his face shows signs of Jaundice and dehydration (little sinking in around the eyes and dry lips). If he doesn't gain enough by Friday, they would like for us to supplement or use some lactation devices to get him more intake.
Do you know what device she is speaking of? She said we could provide more volume without using a bottle nipple. She said there are devices that well mimic the nipple.
I feel he has eaten better over the past two days, but think we got him behind with my milk coming in and being engorged (yes people, the girls were like rocks! They were so hard, I couldn't even pump, but applying heat to them worked great!).

At birth, he weighed 6 lbs 3ozs.
Leaving the hospital he weighed 5lbs 9 ozs.
Yesterday he was 5lbs 13 ozs. She wanted him to be back to birth weight by now.
Thanks you for all the advice.
Meredith
-----------------------

Good morning,

Only a mother e-mails at 2 am. I think you have a good handle on it. He probably got a little behind with the engorgement. He should be eating at least 8 times per day for 15-20 minutes minimum, could be as many as 12 times with cluster feeding. He should be wetting 5-6 diapers and at least one stool (could be many). If he is doing this he should be doing well. Drink only to thirst, 8-10 glasses per day. Not gallons. Rest. The next 24 hours (before your next pediatrician's appt) should be all about breastfeeding and rest. Do not go out, or shop or anything. Just allow him to eat whenever he wants and wake him if he has not woken by 3 hours after his last feed. Put him skin-to-skin on your chest at 3 hours and wait for feeding cues. He should be eating within 30 minutes.
I am on tomorrow. What time is your pediatrician's appt? If he has not gained weight I can show you how to use the Supplemental nursing system. We have them here (MUSC). You just put breastmilk or formula in a bottle that has a tube that goes down to the breast. When he latches the tube goes in his mouth also so he will get extra breastmilk or formula when he sucks.
This is not uncommon. Don't worry. Try to stay relaxed and focused solely on Tillman and breastfeeding today.
Page me tomorrow after the pediatrician's appt. or if you have any questions.

MUSC Lactation Service

Conair and Dyson make great babysitters....

Before leaving the hospital we were told to watch a video called "The Happiest Baby on the Block."  Boy, are we glad we did!  This video explains the 5 S's.  One of the S's is SHHHHH (shushing)!  You can make the noise with your mouth, but you must over come the baby's cry to soothe the child.  The video we watched said the SHHH noise could even come in the form of a vacuum, hair dryer, etc. 

Well, I am here to tell you that I am writing this post beside my Dyson!  It works!  Nick and I have used the hair dryer tonight as well...it works!  I must say the sound of the Dyson and Conair are much better than a screaming baby's cry.  This "white noise" works instantly to make them stop crying, and don't worry about the sound being too loud for your child.  The sounds in the womb are much louder says Dr. Karp, the 5 S's expert.

I used the Dyson in between him latching to breastfeed.  I have a very impatient child when hungry.  The vacuum allows him to calm down enough to latch.

We used the hair dryer to get his diaper changed and swaddle him before the feedings. 

We are very grateful to our lactation consultant in the hospital, Barbara, who encouraged us to watch the video!

What are the other S's?  Sucking, Swaddling, Swinging (or shake, but not vigorously...they demonstrated the technique on the video), and Side Sleeping.

We have used all of these techniques.  More to come on how we've done with the other S's.

Check out the video below of Dr. Karp demonstrating his magic of the 5 S's!



PS after looking at my hair dryer closely, I have a Vidal Sassoon....

Preparing For Birth During Final Weeks Of Pregnancy

I would suggest to anyone now after going through the labor process to talk about your wants and needs before the big day.  As I found out, the big day is not the due date always and can come at any time.  Nick, Dr. Villers and I were all on the same page.  Check out this video of us discussing with Dr. Villers our questions, thoughts, and wants about our experience.


Well....embedding the video won't work for me, so here's the link. 

We were hoping for a normal delivery, but it just wasn't in the cards for us with Tillman since my water broke prematurely (before I was in labor).  However, the birthplan forced me to think about the possibility of a c-section.  I am sure glad we filled out the plan!

Like The Good Wife Should....

I once heard someone say "dinner is ready...like the good wife should." It was actually the husband saying this.  The saying has always stuck with me.

Now with Tillman 3 weeks out, I wonder, will I...

be able to be "The Good Wife"

to him?

Just this morning, he calls me on my way out the drive way asking where his work pants were.  I thought he had one pair left, but those apparently don't have a button (he knew...I didn't remember).  My job is laundry (I do the laundry like the good wife should.).  I had to tell him that the rest of his pants didn't make it into the dryer last night.  Therefore, Nick is walking around today with no button on his pants and praying that the belt will keep them on!

This made me wonder, am I going to be able to keep up on my "wife" duties when Tillman comes?  Is there a compromise between being a good wife and a good mom? 

I know the pants not making to the dryer is a small example (although...this doesn't start the week off good), but of course, there are other things that I worry about not being able to do, feeling too tired to do, or completely forgetting to do! 

How do relationship stay in tact when a "bundle of joy" enters the mix?  I'm most concerned about the first 3-6 months.  This is where I feel that I'll be getting up every two to three hours and just wanting to sleep, eat (maybe), and well....that is probably it.  However, I know that can't be it because "the good wife should..."

That is on my mind today.  Any advice?

Breastfeeding (a face to face chat with the expert)

I met with Jeanne Barreira, MUSC Lactation Consultant, to hear the "skinny" on breastfeeding.  She and I spoke for an hour, but the below clip is 10 minutes of our conversation. 

She was very helpful to answer my questions, dispel myths, and encourage me to breastfeed when Tillman arrives.  Breastfeeding is something I am really looking forward to doing.  I feel confident that the MUSC Lactation team will help me in anyway.  The biggest thing I learned is to ask questions and get help before giving up.  Breastfeeding isn't easy, at times it (could) hurts, but the bottom line is it is the best thing for our babies. 

I relate it to a workout after not working out for a year or for that matter, never working out before.  When you workout it hurts, it stinks, it is hard, but you've got to push through it to get in shape.  Once you get in your workout routine it is easy/easier.  No Pain No Gain...right?

Check out this video:

View this video on MUSChealth.com (click here)

If you are interested in learning more about breastfeeding, visit their website (click here) and view the links on the right side of the screen.

Hospital Issued “Undies” Are All The Rage?

Who knew...but it is true!  Ever since I have been pregnant, moms have told me about these wonderful mesh type "undies" the hospital gives you after you give birth.  I finally broke down and asked the L&D nurse manager, who took me on the tour of the units in the videos, what these things were and what they look like.

Moms have given the advice of tell the nurse that you need a new pair every time you see her...they go on to say "you'll want to go home with a stock of these." These are one size fits all, "boy-short" style undies are the most comfortable thing (at that time), and I hear if you wash them right, you can get more than one wear out of them!

The wash trick is if you wash them in the sink by hand.  Then, take a towel and roll the undies up in the towel.  Ring the towel out, unroll the towel, and your undies are practically dry!

So, here's a snapshot of these things.

I wonder if Victoria's Secret knows about these?

Who knew?

Diaper Shopping...did I do ok?

This post is for all those money-savvy moms out there who buy diapers often....

Publix had a sale going this week with Pampers (a coupon in their ad).  I thought I should take advantage of the tax free weekend and this sale to purchase diapers.  I purchased size/stage 3 diapers.  Hopefully, that was a safe option since we're still not sure how big Tillman will be.

My purchase:
-Pampers mega refill of unscented wipes (216 count)- $6.99 (FREE with purchase of diapers)
-Pampers diapers size 3 value pack (116 count)-$29.99
-Pampers sensitive wipes (64 count)- $2.99 (FREE with purchase of diapers)
-Pampers diapers size 3 big pack (76 count)-$19.99
-Total before coupons-$59.96-

Coupons:
-2 coupons (one from this week's ad and the other from Publix baby club) for buy a diaper pack and get wipes for free (both coupons had differing terms thus the different counts above)
-2 $5 off a $25 purchase from Rite Aid (Publix competitor coupon)
-Vendor coupons of $1.75, $1.00 & $1.75

-After coupons-$35.47-

Is this a pretty good deal or could I have saved more?  What deals have you found on diapers?

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!"

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!

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!

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!

Stretch Marks Prevention

I was first introduced to stretch marks while I hit that first major growth spurt in middle school.  It was the summer between my seventh and eighth grade years.  I guess that is referred to as blossoming, but dang, I was in full bloom that summer!  I remember my mom purchasing my Confirmation dress.  I planned to wear it to my cousin's wedding that August.  We'll I went to put the dress on, and my mom had to bust the seems to make it work for the wedding.  I think that was the first time in my life I felt FAT.  Kids shouldn't have to feel fat, but from that point on, I was introduced to stretch marks and dieting!!!

So now being pregnant, I am super sensitive to the fact of me being prone to stretch marks.  I just can't handle anymore; I have enough.  I certainly fear them during pregnancy after seeing post like this (do check it out...at least the stretch mark picture...Julie, I finally broke down and read it).  After seeing that picture of someone who didn't believe in creams and lotions, I had to try every lotion possible to avoid that situation.

I have a three lotion regiment once a day (may up it to twice a day).
-Publix Cocoa Butter (Free from Publix Baby Club mailer)-I put this mainly on my legs, arms and chest.  I consider this lotion, phase one.  It might help, but certainly look to higher powered lotions for problem areas.

-Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks, phase two.  At least this lotion has Stretch Marks in the name.  I use this lotion for my belly!  I don't have any stretch marks (knock on wood) there, but feel like this would do a good job in helping fight them. 

-Bio-Oil, phase three.  Several women have recommended this product.  I use it on my thighs and lower back....the unfortunate places I've had stretch marks since 7th grade! Bio-Oil is not cheap.  The small bottle cost $20.  However, their website has a coupon!  (click here for the coupon).  I have found it at Wal-Mart and Target.

Any advice from moms out there on what is the best products to use?

Sigh of Relief...

Remember this post about planning our social calendar past September 2010? If you haven't read the post, I encourage you to read, as I got a lot of advice from the questions I purposed regarding going to a wedding in Virginia with a two month old (read comments).

Since that post, I spoke with the bride, and she is completely alright with us bringing Tillman to the reception.  She has several other friends that are in the same boat as us, and she said she would just like for us to be there.  After hearing that, it was a "sigh of relief."  However, we still wanted to find a baby sitter, so Nick and I could enjoy the wedding together.  My friend's mom has been trying to find a sitter for us in the area. 

Last night, I talked to my mom who is in Virginia visiting one of her friends.  The group of friends that are together have been friends since they were babies (they call themselves the YaYa's).  Mom mentioned that she was in Ashburn, VA.  I didn't know exactly where that was, so I Google Mapped it.  We'll it is literally two miles from Lansdowne Resort where the wedding will be in November.  What are the chances?? 

So, I got on the phone to call my mom to make sure that is where they were, and sure enough, it was!  We not only found a babysitter for the wedding, but a place to stay while we are up there!!  It just feels like it was meant to be, and this is a HUGE sigh of relief!

Gulcose Screening-Tomorrow Morning

Tomorrow morning I'll be "drinking the juice!"  (Yuck...I hear.) The glucose screening is a recommend a test for pregnant women between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy to check for gestational diabetes, a high blood sugar condition that some women get during pregnancy.  Dr. Villers prefers for her patients to get it around the 24 week mark verse later.  (I'll be 24 weeks on Tuesday.)

For the test, I've been told that one doesn't have to fast.  They request that you don't go and have a crazy carb/sugar meal.  However, I have many friends who have told me HORROR stories about those who chose not to fast and were on the board line, which caused them to go for the extended test (3 hours long and you are required to fast).

Since my appointment is at 9AM, I think I am not going to chance it and fast.  I just want to make sure I have the most accurate reading possible, and eliminate any false positive readings.  Dr. Villers' office did mention I could come in at 8:30 to "drink the juice."  After drinking it, you have to wait an hour for the reading.  My appointment with Dr. Villers is at 9:00, so I hope that hour will go by quickly since I'll be busy! 

We do plan to video the test, so you'll have to tune in! 

The drink for the test is orange and is supposed to taste like Sunkist.  I really hope it does because that is one of my favs (wishful thinking..huh?)!

Target Registry

First let me say as a follow up to yesterday's post, I did purchase the maternity bathing suit skirt.  They had it in the store.  However, I had to hunt to find it.  It was mixed in with the regular sizes.  I ordered a different bathing suit top than the one pictured in yesterday's post.  I got this one.  Now, just keep your fingers crossed that it gets here on Friday.
I did read the reviews of this bathing suit.  The overall theme is that the material is its "super cheap".  It has been my experience and many have told me that maternity clothing in general is made cheaply, so I just plan to keep that in consideration and rinse it out after going in the pool or ocean and hand-washing it.

Registry....Target is offering some wonderful deals to moms-to-be for registering.  I received a bag of free coupons and samples.  They also told me to visit the pharmacy.  After listening to their "spiel" about why choose Target Rx over all others, they gave us some samples of commonly used things and a voucher for a $10 gift card!!!!! (I used it last night on the bathing suit, so it is legit!) If anything, go register at Target to get your gift card!!

Our Target registry isn't as comprehensive as the Babies R Us registry.  Since Target isn't a baby only store, it does allow you to be more creative.  For example, Nick and I are interested in "grinding" / "blending" up our own baby food.  We registered for the Jack LaLanne Juicer. My friend, Rachel, used a juicer for her son and is still using it today.

Another good reason to register at Target is there are simply more Targets.  If your family and friends scatted about, it is always great to go with a store that everyone has.  Target is a good option.  After looking at Babies R Us' map of stores, they're not in as many towns as I first thought.

Below are a few products that came highly recommended from friends and family to register. 

Itzbeen Baby Care Timer

This timer keeps up with the schedule!  I love structure, so if there is a timer that can tell me when to do something, bring it on!  It even keeps up with which breast to start feeding (L/R...I can't keep up with simple stuff like that as it is!  This will be a life saver)!! 

Here are some of the product review comments:

~"I love the L/R feature for breastfeeding, the backlight is great for nighttime, and the alarm beep is gentle."

~"The 4th button (*) is ingenious, as, having had a C-section, I needed to monitor my pain meds for the first two weeks"

~"I use it more than anything I got for baby. I honestly never realized how quickly time can just slip by and just when you think it's been maybe 30 min since the last feeding, diaper change, etc, you look at the timer and it's been like an hour and a half!"

Miracle Blanket

I follow So Happily Us blog, and after reading her post about her top 10 baby favs, I knew that I was going to register for one of these!  Click on the post to read her review! 

Boppy Bare Pillow

I don't think there has been anyone who said DON'T get this!  Everyone loves the Boppy Pillow.  They are available everywhere, which is great! 

If you're interested in viewing Tillman's Target registry, click here!  Let me know if you have any advice or if there are some products out there that you feel are a "must have!"