Another week has passed! I'm happy to report that I survived the full moon (but I love how all my friends e-mailed me the next morning to ask "Are you still pregnant?"). The question is, will I survive this heartburn? The jury's still out on that one.
It seems like it's getting a little harder to pass the days. I'm so over watching TV, reading, and playing online, but there just isn't much else for me to choose from. At this point it seems too late to start any kind of crafty project. It does kind of feel like I've gotten my second wind in this pregnancy, though. I suddenly have a little more energy to be on my feet and I find that I want to expend most of it in the nursery getting things ready (which translates into me walking around touching everything, looking at outfits for the millionth time, and practicing putting the crib rails up and down with one hand. I guess there really isn't that much left to get ready; I just like being in the room). We've had great weather too, so it's been nice sitting out back on the swing. Funny how when I'm inside, I can never just be still; I always have to have the TV on or my laptop open. But when I'm outside, I can just sit and do nothing and be perfectly happy.
I've been feeling reflective lately as I sort through all the emotions that come along with realizing how much our lives are about to change. This time last year, my biggest concerns were whether or not to go back to school yet again and complete Montessori training (glad I decided not to), which summer concerts to see, what kind of bathing suit to get for the beach, and how to deal with the nasty case of ringworm I picked up at school (go ahead and cringe, I know, it's gross). I worked all day, came home and cooked dinner, went for hour-long walks with Sampson, and ended each night hanging out in the tub with a glass of wine and no worries as to how I was going to get back out. It's easy to be wistful when thinking about those carefree days, but I also distinctly remember that overwhelming feeling of "is this all there is?" Now, with our babies on the way, I'm bored and uncomfortable - and anxious about the future - but I no longer feel like something is missing, or that I don't know where I'm headed. I actually feel like I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Just in Case
Although I should have been ecstatic after my "no news is good news" appointment yesterday, for some reason I came home in a not-so-great mood. I really couldn't put my finger on why. I guess it's because I'm a control freak and a planner and I really just wanted someone to say "you will give birth on ____________." The good news is I am realizing that one cannot exist as both a control freak/planner and a parent of triplets at the same time. So the sooner I learn to correct the problem, the better. I'm a work in progress.
Since the day I found out there were three little peanuts making their home in my belly, I've been pumped full of all the possibilities of things that could go wrong. So I guess that's what I've been expecting. To be honest, I expected to be in the hospital long before I gave birth, because that was what I was prepared for.
But that doesn't seem like it's going to happen. So...if I'm not in the hospital prior to the big day...and there's little chance I'll make it to a scheduled delivery at 35+ weeks...I have to make my peace NOW with the fact that most likely, the action will start here at home. I very well could be here by myself. (Thank you, Lord, that Kevin's office is only 15 minutes away.) We might have to make that frantic drive to the hospital after all. Things will most definitely not go according to any plans I've made. I am accepting this. I am trying very hard, despite my fears, to be ready.
Did I mention we were wrong about the full moon? It wasn't last night. It's tonight.
Today's tasks, just in case:
-Print out directions to hospital in case someone gets frazzled and forgets where to turn. Post on fridge next to phone numbers for hospital and doctor on call.
-Finish the packing of the bag. Place bag in central locale.
-Begin enforcing our agreed-upon rules: all cell phones charged at all times, no cars with less than a quarter tank of gas at any time.
-Post "Don't forget your glasses" note to self in visible spot.
-Lay out comfy outfit in case of middle of night panic (can't go to the hospital in just a giant T-shirt).
-Secure care for Sampson. This is tricky. Many friends have volunteered, but all work during the day. If we leave in the middle of the night, this dog will go nuts by himself all the next day. And will leave unpleasant surprises on our carpet. Hmmm, I talked with a neighbor last night who gave me her number and said call if I need anything at all. I'll check with her.
-Get ice cream. Preferably early in the evening. It's 31-cent scoop night at Baskin Robbins! House arrest stinks, so I'm busting out.
Since the day I found out there were three little peanuts making their home in my belly, I've been pumped full of all the possibilities of things that could go wrong. So I guess that's what I've been expecting. To be honest, I expected to be in the hospital long before I gave birth, because that was what I was prepared for.
But that doesn't seem like it's going to happen. So...if I'm not in the hospital prior to the big day...and there's little chance I'll make it to a scheduled delivery at 35+ weeks...I have to make my peace NOW with the fact that most likely, the action will start here at home. I very well could be here by myself. (Thank you, Lord, that Kevin's office is only 15 minutes away.) We might have to make that frantic drive to the hospital after all. Things will most definitely not go according to any plans I've made. I am accepting this. I am trying very hard, despite my fears, to be ready.
Did I mention we were wrong about the full moon? It wasn't last night. It's tonight.
Today's tasks, just in case:
-Print out directions to hospital in case someone gets frazzled and forgets where to turn. Post on fridge next to phone numbers for hospital and doctor on call.
-Finish the packing of the bag. Place bag in central locale.
-Begin enforcing our agreed-upon rules: all cell phones charged at all times, no cars with less than a quarter tank of gas at any time.
-Post "Don't forget your glasses" note to self in visible spot.
-Lay out comfy outfit in case of middle of night panic (can't go to the hospital in just a giant T-shirt).
-Secure care for Sampson. This is tricky. Many friends have volunteered, but all work during the day. If we leave in the middle of the night, this dog will go nuts by himself all the next day. And will leave unpleasant surprises on our carpet. Hmmm, I talked with a neighbor last night who gave me her number and said call if I need anything at all. I'll check with her.
-Get ice cream. Preferably early in the evening. It's 31-cent scoop night at Baskin Robbins! House arrest stinks, so I'm busting out.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
No news is good news
It's funny how much you look forward to doctor's appointments when they're basically your only outings. By the way, the end of this pregnancy has given me a new sympathy for older folks who are "shut in." It makes me very sad to think of people who can't drive themselves, can't get out, and don't get a lot of visitors. At least I've always known my situation is temporary. (Maybe when I start my non-profit, it will provide visitors and transportation to shut-ins. I'm not sure if this will be before or after I start my cake decorating and dog-walking businesses. You know, in all the down time I'm going to have as a full-time mom of three.)
Anyway, back to my appointment. It was basically just a very quick ultrasound to check heartbeats and make sure everybody looked OK. They did, which as always was a relief. Somehow I've gained five more pounds in the last two weeks. It's amazing how much the human body can stretch, I guess. My blood pressure was still normal, my "monster feet" appeared to be from typical pregnancy edema, and I was assured again that I'm not crushing or squishing the babies when I lie down on my side. No one would commit to even speculating as to when we might see some action, but no one seemed at all concerned that it might be soon. I KNOW this is great news for the babies, and I KNOW that's the most important thing. But it's hard not to have a small, selfish part of me wishing we could wrap this thing up. I was told that in a couple of weeks they would schedule a c-section date for "the beginning of my 36th week" (!) but that was immediately followed by "but you won't get that far." Interesting. I guess I need to start mentally preparing for the terrifying, water breaking in the middle of the night scenario I was hoping to avoid. My friend tells me that if we're going by the full moon, it will either be tonight or May 27. Given these options, I choose May 27. Maybe when it comes down to it, I'm not as ready as I thought.
Anyway, back to my appointment. It was basically just a very quick ultrasound to check heartbeats and make sure everybody looked OK. They did, which as always was a relief. Somehow I've gained five more pounds in the last two weeks. It's amazing how much the human body can stretch, I guess. My blood pressure was still normal, my "monster feet" appeared to be from typical pregnancy edema, and I was assured again that I'm not crushing or squishing the babies when I lie down on my side. No one would commit to even speculating as to when we might see some action, but no one seemed at all concerned that it might be soon. I KNOW this is great news for the babies, and I KNOW that's the most important thing. But it's hard not to have a small, selfish part of me wishing we could wrap this thing up. I was told that in a couple of weeks they would schedule a c-section date for "the beginning of my 36th week" (!) but that was immediately followed by "but you won't get that far." Interesting. I guess I need to start mentally preparing for the terrifying, water breaking in the middle of the night scenario I was hoping to avoid. My friend tells me that if we're going by the full moon, it will either be tonight or May 27. Given these options, I choose May 27. Maybe when it comes down to it, I'm not as ready as I thought.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Nursery Progress!
Today I am 30 weeks and 3 days pregnant! Every day seems to count at this point. I no longer recognize my feet; they're very Pillsbury Doughboy-esque. Good thing I can hardly see them anyway. Yay for cankles!
There doesn't seem to be enough fruit in this entire town to keep me satisfied. I have had a few random cravings throughout this pregnancy but this is intense. Strawberries, bananas, grapes...you name it, I have to have it. By the truckload. Kevin brought home one of those economy size bags of navel oranges yesterday. Yes, there are still a few left. But not many.
The rest of today's post is a photo tour of the nursery! We've made serious progress and are essentially finished. I'm still waiting on my waterproof crib pad to come in the mail (I DID break down and do some online shopping, and it was so worth it) and then I'll be able to get the sheets on the cribs and have them completely ready for our little girls to sleep in. We also need to get curtain rods and hang our curtains, but we should be able to take care of that in the next few days. Other than that, I'd say we're about DONE! The room is a little mix-n-match, but I think it's absolutely perfect, especially since I can count on one hand the number of items in there we actually paid for out of our own pockets. I don't mean to sound like I'm bragging...quite the opposite, in fact. It's humbling how generous our friends and family have been! We appreciate everything so much.
There doesn't seem to be enough fruit in this entire town to keep me satisfied. I have had a few random cravings throughout this pregnancy but this is intense. Strawberries, bananas, grapes...you name it, I have to have it. By the truckload. Kevin brought home one of those economy size bags of navel oranges yesterday. Yes, there are still a few left. But not many.
The rest of today's post is a photo tour of the nursery! We've made serious progress and are essentially finished. I'm still waiting on my waterproof crib pad to come in the mail (I DID break down and do some online shopping, and it was so worth it) and then I'll be able to get the sheets on the cribs and have them completely ready for our little girls to sleep in. We also need to get curtain rods and hang our curtains, but we should be able to take care of that in the next few days. Other than that, I'd say we're about DONE! The room is a little mix-n-match, but I think it's absolutely perfect, especially since I can count on one hand the number of items in there we actually paid for out of our own pockets. I don't mean to sound like I'm bragging...quite the opposite, in fact. It's humbling how generous our friends and family have been! We appreciate everything so much.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
30 Weeks!
I've been staring at a blank screen for 20 minutes because I'm having trouble finding words to express how I feel about hitting 30 weeks today! Let's just say I am:
happy
thankful
excited
terrified
and of course, uncomfortable. How funny that I thought I was uncomfortable two weeks ago! And yes, I know I'll probably be saying the same thing two weeks from NOW, should I get that far.
I spend most of my days on the couch now, which gets pretty boring, but at least I know it's not for much longer. I CAN still get up and make myself meals, take potty breaks (lots and lots of potty breaks), take a quick shower, and take the dog outside. Five minutes seems to be my limit for being on my feet. I haven't left the house in, well...a long time. I guess since my last doctor's appointment, about 10 days ago. Sometimes I feel like the walls are closing in on me, but there's not much else to do besides wait it out. I have a lot of time to think, which has never been a good thing for me, and I've been getting a little anxious lately when I think about the reality of what our lives are going to be like soon. I worry sometimes that maybe I'm not up for the challenge. Will I really be able to handle this...three newborns at once? I'm praying for courage and strength...and so thankful that help is coming!
happy
thankful
excited
terrified
and of course, uncomfortable. How funny that I thought I was uncomfortable two weeks ago! And yes, I know I'll probably be saying the same thing two weeks from NOW, should I get that far.
I spend most of my days on the couch now, which gets pretty boring, but at least I know it's not for much longer. I CAN still get up and make myself meals, take potty breaks (lots and lots of potty breaks), take a quick shower, and take the dog outside. Five minutes seems to be my limit for being on my feet. I haven't left the house in, well...a long time. I guess since my last doctor's appointment, about 10 days ago. Sometimes I feel like the walls are closing in on me, but there's not much else to do besides wait it out. I have a lot of time to think, which has never been a good thing for me, and I've been getting a little anxious lately when I think about the reality of what our lives are going to be like soon. I worry sometimes that maybe I'm not up for the challenge. Will I really be able to handle this...three newborns at once? I'm praying for courage and strength...and so thankful that help is coming!
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Worried Mother Hen, Act I
In light of the fact that a woman recently tried to steal a baby from the hospital at which I plan to deliver, I'm putting on my Mother Hen suit and tightening up security. (Note: happily, the would-be baby thief did not succeed, but still.) So...I think I'm going to make this blog private soon. When the babies arrive, I want to post their pictures and info here for my family and friends, but I don't want too many details available to just anyone.
I don't know exactly how it works, but I think once I change the settings you'll have to send a request and then log in to read my blog entries. It's a little less convenient, but I hope that if you're already a "loyal follower" you'll stick around and see what all of these ramblings of mine have been leading up to! I really appreciate everyone who reads my blog (and I thrive on your comments, hint hint) so please know that I'm not trying to deter anybody who is already a reader/follower. This is just the first of many occasions in which I'll demonstrate my overly-worried, over-protective parenting nature.
I don't know exactly how it works, but I think once I change the settings you'll have to send a request and then log in to read my blog entries. It's a little less convenient, but I hope that if you're already a "loyal follower" you'll stick around and see what all of these ramblings of mine have been leading up to! I really appreciate everyone who reads my blog (and I thrive on your comments, hint hint) so please know that I'm not trying to deter anybody who is already a reader/follower. This is just the first of many occasions in which I'll demonstrate my overly-worried, over-protective parenting nature.
Monday, April 19, 2010
A few random tidbits
Just a few thoughts on this beautiful (but somewhat long and lonely) Monday...
*I think I have carpal tunnel! Just one more weird pregnancy symptom/side effect that I never would have expected. It started out as extreme wrist pain but now it's mostly in my fingers. I tried to write a thank you note and could barely grip the pen. Doesn't help that my fingers are swollen up so much that they look like small sausages.
*On the positive side, I think I'm going to have some killer triceps after this from pushing myself up off the couch/bed. They've been really sore for a few days (because I have to push a lot harder now to get up!) and feel the way they did waaaaay back when I used to work out.
*I ordered the hospital-recommended breast pump last night and I'm extremely excited about it! I might be less enthused once I start using it for hours a day but that's not something I'm focusing on right now. I debated a long time about renting vs. buying (and buying new vs. used) and decided that this was going to be a pretty important piece of equipment for feeding three babies, so the investment seemed worth it. Although it was expensive to buy it new, I found a pretty good deal on Amazon, and I'm happy that I'll have the warranty. For all the use it will get, I felt like it was crucial to have one with a full life ahead of it. I figure the better the pump quality, the less we'll have to spend on supplemental formula, or so I hope.
*I'm in serious nesting mode! My in-laws visited over the weekend and brought the last two cribs and the double Snap-n-Go they found for us. They helped put the cribs together and built shelves in our closets. All the nursery furniture is in place where I want it to be, and all we have left are some finishing touches...mostly hanging a few things on the walls and getting all the crib bedding put on. Pictures coming soon!
*I think I have carpal tunnel! Just one more weird pregnancy symptom/side effect that I never would have expected. It started out as extreme wrist pain but now it's mostly in my fingers. I tried to write a thank you note and could barely grip the pen. Doesn't help that my fingers are swollen up so much that they look like small sausages.
*On the positive side, I think I'm going to have some killer triceps after this from pushing myself up off the couch/bed. They've been really sore for a few days (because I have to push a lot harder now to get up!) and feel the way they did waaaaay back when I used to work out.
*I ordered the hospital-recommended breast pump last night and I'm extremely excited about it! I might be less enthused once I start using it for hours a day but that's not something I'm focusing on right now. I debated a long time about renting vs. buying (and buying new vs. used) and decided that this was going to be a pretty important piece of equipment for feeding three babies, so the investment seemed worth it. Although it was expensive to buy it new, I found a pretty good deal on Amazon, and I'm happy that I'll have the warranty. For all the use it will get, I felt like it was crucial to have one with a full life ahead of it. I figure the better the pump quality, the less we'll have to spend on supplemental formula, or so I hope.
*I'm in serious nesting mode! My in-laws visited over the weekend and brought the last two cribs and the double Snap-n-Go they found for us. They helped put the cribs together and built shelves in our closets. All the nursery furniture is in place where I want it to be, and all we have left are some finishing touches...mostly hanging a few things on the walls and getting all the crib bedding put on. Pictures coming soon!
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Thursday, April 15, 2010
29 Weeks!
Just one more week in the 20s! I can hardly believe it! These babies are going to be here soon. Wow.
Good news: the nurse from my doctor's office just called with my lab results. My glucose levels were normal - no signs of gestational diabetes! Celebrating appropriately with a Cook-Out mint Oreo milkshake to be delivered this afternoon by a friend. As tempted as I am to just skip lunch and go straight for dessert, I'd better make myself sit down and have some real food first.
My iron levels are still low, so I was told to take a second iron supplement every day (I'm already taking one along with my prenatal vitamin). That, I can handle.
Perhaps an updated picture will be coming soon, IF I can find some decent clothes that actually fit. I've been alternating the same ratty shorts and yoga pants with my men's 3XL T-shirts for days. Maybe I'll break out the tribal-print caftan my mom sent me. But then again, maybe not. At least not for photo day.
Good news: the nurse from my doctor's office just called with my lab results. My glucose levels were normal - no signs of gestational diabetes! Celebrating appropriately with a Cook-Out mint Oreo milkshake to be delivered this afternoon by a friend. As tempted as I am to just skip lunch and go straight for dessert, I'd better make myself sit down and have some real food first.
My iron levels are still low, so I was told to take a second iron supplement every day (I'm already taking one along with my prenatal vitamin). That, I can handle.
Perhaps an updated picture will be coming soon, IF I can find some decent clothes that actually fit. I've been alternating the same ratty shorts and yoga pants with my men's 3XL T-shirts for days. Maybe I'll break out the tribal-print caftan my mom sent me. But then again, maybe not. At least not for photo day.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Officially Handicapped
Today was another doctor day! I STILL can't convince them to see me once a week (which I acknowledge is a good thing, but the two weeks of waiting drive me batty). So, my next appointment is two weeks from today, and then after that I'll finally start going in every week. I can't even imagine what I will look and feel like at that point. Let's not think about it.
I have now gained 40 lbs.
I am now carrying 9 lbs 6 ounces of baby.
Reagan appears to be the runt at 2 lbs 12 oz, Hadley weighs 3 lbs 3 oz, and Madeline is our little chunker at 3 lbs 7 oz. The doctor isn't worried about the weight discrepancy. He says everybody is right on target.
Miraculously, despite the 9 plus pounds of constant pressure, my cervix is still closed and 3.1 cm long. Thus, the doctors aren't expecting much action anytime soon. Funny, 'cause last night I was sure labor was imminent based on the cramping and dull ache in my pelvis and lower back. Apparently, this is normal. I can't wait to see what's "normal" when I hit 30 weeks and beyond. After all my fears about preterm labor, why do I suddenly get the feeling that it will be late May and I'll be begging them to take these babies out?! Although it would be fantastic and is in fact what we're shooting for, I may need to be sedated if that happens. I can do this!
Oh, and I'm officially handicapped, at least temporarily. The doctor filled out a form for me to get a temporary handicapped tag for the car (you know, for all the driving and running around I do). Under explanation, she checked the box that read "applicant cannot walk more than 200 ft without stopping to rest." For some reason this is super funny to me.
I have now gained 40 lbs.
I am now carrying 9 lbs 6 ounces of baby.
Reagan appears to be the runt at 2 lbs 12 oz, Hadley weighs 3 lbs 3 oz, and Madeline is our little chunker at 3 lbs 7 oz. The doctor isn't worried about the weight discrepancy. He says everybody is right on target.
Miraculously, despite the 9 plus pounds of constant pressure, my cervix is still closed and 3.1 cm long. Thus, the doctors aren't expecting much action anytime soon. Funny, 'cause last night I was sure labor was imminent based on the cramping and dull ache in my pelvis and lower back. Apparently, this is normal. I can't wait to see what's "normal" when I hit 30 weeks and beyond. After all my fears about preterm labor, why do I suddenly get the feeling that it will be late May and I'll be begging them to take these babies out?! Although it would be fantastic and is in fact what we're shooting for, I may need to be sedated if that happens. I can do this!
Oh, and I'm officially handicapped, at least temporarily. The doctor filled out a form for me to get a temporary handicapped tag for the car (you know, for all the driving and running around I do). Under explanation, she checked the box that read "applicant cannot walk more than 200 ft without stopping to rest." For some reason this is super funny to me.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Getting Prepared
Since I've heard that I should be ready for anything after 28 weeks, I decided hitting this milestone would be the right time to get a hospital bag packed "just in case." So far I've only packed some travel-size toiletries. I have my overnight bag laying out, but I feel like I can't put anything in it yet because I only have a limited number of comfy clothing items that actually fit, and I want to be able to wear them now instead of just having them sit in a bag. If only I could take myself shopping, then I'd pick up a couple of extra things I could pack away. Maybe I'll follow the lead of a fellow pregnant blogger and spend a little time shopping online today, although I fear that might wake a sleeping giant and get me into trouble. I could see that becoming a new favorite hobby fast. Maybe today I'll wash my extra bath robe and at least have that, my slippers, and some extra undies tucked into my bag. I've heard a lot of stories of triplet moms going to their regular OB/perinatologist appointments and being sent straight to the hospital from there. I'm not really expecting that to happen, but then again, I'm sure they weren't either. It couldn't hurt to be overly prepared in case something unforeseen comes up.
The number one thing I can't forget to grab should we have to make a quick run to the hospital is my glasses! I've told Kevin to remind me, but if we're frazzled or panicked, I can see this getting overlooked. Maybe I should make a big note to myself and stick it on the mirror. Apparently, you can't wear your contact lenses during a C-section, and without those or my glasses, I'm essentially blind. (The optometrist always has to special order my contacts because they never have a high enough prescription in stock, if that tells you anything.) It would NOT be cool to be in that situation and not be able to see what's going on.
In the spirit of getting prepared, last night Kevin said it was time to decide on definite middle names. We've been tossing out ideas for weeks and mulling over the possibilities, and we finally came up with three full names that we both like:
Reagan Olivia
Hadley June
Madeline Helen (for my grandma - non-negotiable)
I keep saying them over and over in my head. They sound perfect!
The number one thing I can't forget to grab should we have to make a quick run to the hospital is my glasses! I've told Kevin to remind me, but if we're frazzled or panicked, I can see this getting overlooked. Maybe I should make a big note to myself and stick it on the mirror. Apparently, you can't wear your contact lenses during a C-section, and without those or my glasses, I'm essentially blind. (The optometrist always has to special order my contacts because they never have a high enough prescription in stock, if that tells you anything.) It would NOT be cool to be in that situation and not be able to see what's going on.
In the spirit of getting prepared, last night Kevin said it was time to decide on definite middle names. We've been tossing out ideas for weeks and mulling over the possibilities, and we finally came up with three full names that we both like:
Reagan Olivia
Hadley June
Madeline Helen (for my grandma - non-negotiable)
I keep saying them over and over in my head. They sound perfect!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
28 Weeks: The good, the bad, and the ugly
If I could dance, I would. I've made it to that major milestone, 28 weeks!! I remember when it seemed so far away. Now I'm looking ahead and thinking, I could be having these babies in a few weeks! Most of the moms on my online triplets board who've already had their babies delivered between 29 and 35 weeks. People have been telling me "you're almost there" for a while, but I'm actually starting to believe it.
I feel the babies move almost all the time now and I love it. Well, for the most part. I love the kicks and jumps and the slow rolls that make little waves move across my belly. What I don't love is when I get pummeled in the cervix/bladder area. Ouch. Still, if they're moving, it tells me they're OK, and that makes me a very happy mama. When they're "resting" and I don't feel much for a while, I get uneasy. Luckily, it doesn't usually take long for at least one of these little monkeys to start up her acrobatics again.
The nursery is coming together; we got all of the stuff out of the middle of the floor and into dresser drawers and closets. All of the newborn - 3 months sized clothes are washed and ready to go. Diapers are stacked neatly in the corner until we figure out a better storage plan. And, my mother-in-law found us two beautiful Pali cribs on Craigslist for an amazing deal and snatched them up. Those should be delivered in a couple of weeks, so if all goes according to plan, we'll soon be putting the finishing touches on the room and I'll post some "after" pictures. Yay!
So now that I've followed good teacher-like etiquette and focused on the positive first, I get to complain a little. (I know, what else is new, right? Wait, I'm growing three people. Don't judge.) I'm hot. I'm huge. My belly hurts every time I stand up. Or walk. Or attempt to move. I can't take a full breath. My back is never going to be the same again. I have a constant thirst coupled with a constant need to pee. And it feels like I have stretch marks from my waist to my neck. I still try to tell myself they're battle scars, but it's starting to look like I lost the battle. Yikes.
But...I still wouldn't trade this experience for anything. (Or at least that's my attitude for today. We'll see how I'm feeling when we get to 29 weeks, God-willing. I may be writhing on the floor begging for mercy by then.) Every second of this pregnancy is a blessing. I may forget that on occasion, but let me not forget how much I wanted this and how long I waited for it.
I feel the babies move almost all the time now and I love it. Well, for the most part. I love the kicks and jumps and the slow rolls that make little waves move across my belly. What I don't love is when I get pummeled in the cervix/bladder area. Ouch. Still, if they're moving, it tells me they're OK, and that makes me a very happy mama. When they're "resting" and I don't feel much for a while, I get uneasy. Luckily, it doesn't usually take long for at least one of these little monkeys to start up her acrobatics again.
The nursery is coming together; we got all of the stuff out of the middle of the floor and into dresser drawers and closets. All of the newborn - 3 months sized clothes are washed and ready to go. Diapers are stacked neatly in the corner until we figure out a better storage plan. And, my mother-in-law found us two beautiful Pali cribs on Craigslist for an amazing deal and snatched them up. Those should be delivered in a couple of weeks, so if all goes according to plan, we'll soon be putting the finishing touches on the room and I'll post some "after" pictures. Yay!
So now that I've followed good teacher-like etiquette and focused on the positive first, I get to complain a little. (I know, what else is new, right? Wait, I'm growing three people. Don't judge.) I'm hot. I'm huge. My belly hurts every time I stand up. Or walk. Or attempt to move. I can't take a full breath. My back is never going to be the same again. I have a constant thirst coupled with a constant need to pee. And it feels like I have stretch marks from my waist to my neck. I still try to tell myself they're battle scars, but it's starting to look like I lost the battle. Yikes.
But...I still wouldn't trade this experience for anything. (Or at least that's my attitude for today. We'll see how I'm feeling when we get to 29 weeks, God-willing. I may be writhing on the floor begging for mercy by then.) Every second of this pregnancy is a blessing. I may forget that on occasion, but let me not forget how much I wanted this and how long I waited for it.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Wedding fun...and some fears for the future
My dear friend "AR" and I have known each other for over three years now. During that time, we've had many conversations speculating the likelihood of my having a baby and her finding a worthy guy and getting married. At least in the beginning of our friendship, we each doubted that we'd get to have these experiences (well, we doubted for ourselves, but were always confident for the other).
A few months ago, we realized that 2010 was going to be our year. Finally! Here I am, about to have not one baby, but three. And, just last Saturday, I got to be there to see her special day - her wedding! Ever since we learned I was having triplets, we've wondered if I'd be able to be a part of the festivities. To be honest, a few months ago I had my doubts. We vowed we'd do our best...wheel me in on a gurney, have the ceremony video streamed to a hospital room, if necessary...but thankfully, I was there, live and in person - and on foot. I decided I was too proud for the wheelchair AR's darling fiance had so graciously secured for me and decided I felt good enough to walk in to the church (but did a lot of sitting the rest of the afternoon). It was an absolutely beautiful wedding and I was even recognized in the program as the "honorary matron of honor - seated." Of course, lots of hormonally charged tears fell when I saw the girl I consider my "honorary little sister" walking down the aisle looking so amazing and so happy. And even though I was exhausted by the time I got home, it was worth it to have gotten to share her day with her. Congrats Mr. and Mrs. W!
It's apparent, though, that this will be my last big event of any kind until after the babies are born. You know that 27-week picture I posted a few days ago? Well, I swear I've gotten bigger since then - it happened seemingly overnight. I'm going to keep on going for as long as I can, but I fear that my days of walking unassisted, for even very short amounts of time, are numbered.
I wonder what the weeks ahead will bring...will things start happening, or will I just lie around uncomfortable but more or less complication-free, waiting and waiting while the babies (and my belly) keep growing? I don't know what to expect, and I'm starting to feel scared and nervous. Scared of having some problem here at home by myself, having to wait for Kevin to come home and then trying to make a frantic trip to the hospital...scared of getting bad news at a routine appointment...and yes, scared of the C-section, now that I'm finally letting myself really think about it. I feel nervous when I think about maybe having to be in the hospital for a while before delivering, and yet I feel nervous when I think about NOT being there for a while (in a way, it might seem safer to already be there). My head is spinning - and my body is hurting - but I guess I'll just keep taking it one day at a time.
A few months ago, we realized that 2010 was going to be our year. Finally! Here I am, about to have not one baby, but three. And, just last Saturday, I got to be there to see her special day - her wedding! Ever since we learned I was having triplets, we've wondered if I'd be able to be a part of the festivities. To be honest, a few months ago I had my doubts. We vowed we'd do our best...wheel me in on a gurney, have the ceremony video streamed to a hospital room, if necessary...but thankfully, I was there, live and in person - and on foot. I decided I was too proud for the wheelchair AR's darling fiance had so graciously secured for me and decided I felt good enough to walk in to the church (but did a lot of sitting the rest of the afternoon). It was an absolutely beautiful wedding and I was even recognized in the program as the "honorary matron of honor - seated." Of course, lots of hormonally charged tears fell when I saw the girl I consider my "honorary little sister" walking down the aisle looking so amazing and so happy. And even though I was exhausted by the time I got home, it was worth it to have gotten to share her day with her. Congrats Mr. and Mrs. W!
It's apparent, though, that this will be my last big event of any kind until after the babies are born. You know that 27-week picture I posted a few days ago? Well, I swear I've gotten bigger since then - it happened seemingly overnight. I'm going to keep on going for as long as I can, but I fear that my days of walking unassisted, for even very short amounts of time, are numbered.
I wonder what the weeks ahead will bring...will things start happening, or will I just lie around uncomfortable but more or less complication-free, waiting and waiting while the babies (and my belly) keep growing? I don't know what to expect, and I'm starting to feel scared and nervous. Scared of having some problem here at home by myself, having to wait for Kevin to come home and then trying to make a frantic trip to the hospital...scared of getting bad news at a routine appointment...and yes, scared of the C-section, now that I'm finally letting myself really think about it. I feel nervous when I think about maybe having to be in the hospital for a while before delivering, and yet I feel nervous when I think about NOT being there for a while (in a way, it might seem safer to already be there). My head is spinning - and my body is hurting - but I guess I'll just keep taking it one day at a time.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
27 Weeks!
Me: I don't think the world is ready for my next belly pic.
Kevin: Who's going to make fun of you? I'll kick them in the face.
Maybe this picture will help legitimize all my complaints about being uncomfortable...
Kevin: Who's going to make fun of you? I'll kick them in the face.
Maybe this picture will help legitimize all my complaints about being uncomfortable...
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