36 Weeks....My "Go" Bag aka Hospital Bag & Group Strep B

I feel like a super top secret spy woman when discussing my "go" bag - otherwise known as my hospital bag.  I went shopping a couple weeks ago and I think I have a good handle on it all.  However I need to get some different sizes in the nursing gear I bought - I need a Large instead of a Mediums that I bought.  I think it's best to be comfortable.  

So experts suggest packing a Hospital Bag at 36 weeks.  I guess I am right on target.  However, I need to actually pack the bag now.  Stop talking about it, and do it already.  I think it's the last thing that makes everything final.  I think subconsciously, my hold off is if it's not packed yet... then nothing will happen early. Faulty logic, I know but one can dream.  It's not that I am not ready to bring this little lady home, but delivery has been sort of freaking me out a little.  There are so many factors up in the air - labor is hard to imagine.  I am sort of a hospital wuss too.  I hate needles and blood, but I guess when I am in the moment I do fine... somehow muster up the courage needed.  I don't have a birth plan - because frankly I think it's a bit um how do you say... obsessive?!?  This is my first baby, my only goals are to have a healthy baby and healthy mommy.  I don't want to have some plan in place and be disappointed if things change or concerned that we are not following my plan of action.  I'm not the expert - I am as read on the subject as I can be, and I put my trust in my doctor's to help us make the right decisions needed for a healthy, happy, and safe birth.  

That being said, yesterday I was a bit bummed.  I got a call from my Doctor that I am in fact Positive for Group Strep B.  Which I know there is nothing that I need to do some women have it others don't.  I just think it's the way in which I read and was told about it - I guess if 30% of women have it ... it's not totally uncommon - in my head I just thought I wouldn't.  Knowing know I have to be given antibiotic's during labor doesn't really give me a warm fuzzy feeling.  I shouldn't really over react that  - I just was thinking that I wouldn't have a positive test result.  Bah - oh well.  

Here is the link for the  facts on Step B: group b strep infection

What I still need for my Bag- 
Nursing tops that fit. 
Wash all my new pj's 
Put my (and the husbands) items in the bag 

Family & Delivery Room

Many Many people have asked me, what is your plan for the delivery and having visitors?

I have asked around to a lot of friends and done a lot of research.  I think our plan is to have our parents/family come when we are in the recovery room.  Since nobody can predict how long labor can take - there isn't any point to have family/friends watching the clock waiting in a room down the hall. I also don't want there to be any distraction knowing they are out there either.   

According to many women I have talked to and the articles I have read -  post delivery time is so important for bonding "Kangaroo" (skin to skin) contact and trying to nurse if the baby Mommy aren't to tired.  I think it'd be hard if we know family was "waiting" in another room... it can be an unnecessary distraction.  Most my friends only had visitors in the recovery room and it wasn't right away.  They have even warned us at the hospital that the nurse may be quite busy so if you need help getting breastfeeding going  - to try on your own since the nurse may not be readily available.  

I have had friends who's family was eagerly texting during there bonding time - wanting to know when they can come in.  It's just a distraction I'd rather we not have to deal with, since we are going to have a lot of new things in that short amount of time to process.  Besides, this is really the time for the "new family" to get to know each other.  I have spoke to friends who say they really wanted to shower after and have a lil down time before having visitors. I can see where they are coming from too so many changes all at once.  

We are blessed that our family lives very close. They can camp out at home, and come as soon as we give word when we are settled in the recovery room or if we were to change our mind or have something come up.  

Writting this post made me realize I need to get working on packing my "go" bag.  

Belly Photo Props: Vanessa Knits Etsy Review

Vanessa Knits

Looking for a Unique way to announce a pregnancy? 

How about a useful way to wrap a baby shower present? 
(I cringe at how the pretty decorations just get tossed off a present that so much time and care went to into buying & wrapping)

This is the sweetest pink handmade bow belt, great for photos! 
Prefect for a Gender Reveal Party!

Check out VanessaKnits on Etsy!  

Look how cute her other items are: 

stroller-car-seat-baby-blanket-hat-set

Something Pretty for Mommy.... Mother's Day is right around the corner!

crocheted-v-stitch-scarflette

I really love promoting handmade artists.  It's nice to know that something was made with love and care.  Ordering from Etsy is easy, so don't let that be a hurdle.  Shipment arrived in great condition just as pictured - prefect for gifting!

Here is a bit more information on Vanessa Knits:

My obsession with yarn started when my grandmother taught me how to crochet when I was a child.Years later, I wanted to learn how to knit. This time it was my mother who taught me. 


All of my items are made by hand, by me in a smoke-free home. What you see is what you get -- all items are ready to ship and the items photographed in my listings are those you will receive on your doorstep.

What good is a skill if you don't use it to help others? 
The excess yarn from making these creations is used to make donated blankets for the animals at the New Rochelle Humane Society http://www.newrochellehumanesociety.com/ (where our cat Sebastian is from). Additionally, 10% of the selling price of any pet item is donated to the Larchmont Pet Rescue http://www.ny-petrescue.org/ (where pup Stella is from). 

I also knit cotton hats for the preemies at the Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital in New York City. 

Artists Giving Back - Love it.  Isn't nice to feel good about a purchase!

Baby Shower Fun... back to reality

My Baby Shower was a success this weekend.  The Hubs and I received so very many cute things, and much needed things.  I have a list now of items that we need to get before the baby gets here.  

I didn't register for a lot of clothes so I need to pick up just a few newborn items and a couple 0-3 month items.  I asked a friend how many "outfits" were necessary and she suggested about 10 in each size of the smaller sizes (newborn, and 0-3) - which makes sense to me.  

We also need the car seat protector - this being one of the most urgent items.  I think we will both feel better when that's in the car and we can check with the Firehouse that we have it installed properly. 

Monday I stayed home from work to go through all my new goodies.  I'm glad I did because it's really overwhelming to at first have all the gifts out. Living in a condo- clutter is very stressful for us, so I wanted to devote sometime to work on it.   I worked from 10am till about 6 at night unpacking gifts.  I still have a couple more loads of baby laundry to do too until I have it all done.  It's so fun to look at all the cute outfits.  The nursery is nicely coming together too.  I can't wait to post a pic of the final product.  

April Showers Bring May.... Babies!

This weekend is my baby shower!  It's being hosted by my Mother and Mother-In Law... and I am really looking forward to it!  I'm happy with my registry and so far there have been a few glitches - but nothing major.  I choose to register at Buy Buy Baby & Target.  I have to say I found the registration process at Buy Buy Baby a bit easier at least on the Mom to be.  Buy Buy Baby makes it so easy to return and their sales staff is more easily accessible than Target.   Living in Chicago all the Target locations around me are total madhouses and it's often frustrating to even find parking.  Just a matter of preference and location I guess.  

Primping for the party.... I have a hair cut today and I was going to dye my hair too.  The more I think about the hair dye though I am going to pass.  I have gone 8 months with out it, 1 more month isn't going to make a huge difference and then I'll have to worry about maintenance after the lil' baby arrives.  I also have had reactions to hair dye in the past, I would just hate it if something happened.  I am going to try and squeeze in a manicure this weekend - although that may be more of a wish than reality.  Since there is some family coming in, we have a party the day before the shower too - craziness!!  I also ordered about 5 dresses that will be waiting for me from target when I get home tonight to try on.  I have a backup outfit planned out just in-case (pants and a silk top).  I wanted to wear a dress but I didn't really find any in a store that were particularly flattering. It's really annoying that most maternity is offered online only.  So, we shall see what works.  

I am super excited to get things set up in the nursery, and have the vision start coming together.  Since, by nature I am a visual learner and it's hard to imagine how things will look until I can see them.  I am excited to get the bedding set up and start decorating.  I have been holding off getting lots of things to see what I will get at the shower first.  Some of my friends have asked me what I am most excited to receive - I'm just happy to get everything.  It's all feeling like it's coming together easily and quickly now.  

On a side note: I have made some adjustments in my decorating scheme - the frugal part of me took over and I just could not spend $200.00 on a set of mirrors... but I think I found something just as nice.  I will post a "grand reveal" hopefully sometime next week.

I keep saying that the last 2 months have flown past.  I feel like I only really started to look pregnant.  My plan was 

It's also really exciting to feel these big movements that I can feel now.  I always described that movement in the past as "popping bubbles" now  - it's like I feel an elbow jabbing me!  It's really fun - and exhausting.  

My body is starting to feel really tired and putting on shoes has become a hilarious spectacle to watch.  I just hope to get some sleep each night which has also been somewhat of an issue.  

Here is looking forward to the WEEKEND!!!

Allergies

I have major congestion. I noticed it creeping up on me a couple days ago.  I have been mouth breathing and generally uncomfortable.  Although the mouth breathing is so annoying - the sides of my lips have been cracking since it's also so cold out still too!  Today I have a headache, my cheeks are swollen - and of course totally congested!  

I have been told I have an "allergenic nose" by my ENT Dr.  Which  means I am prone to sinus infections.  I was tested about 2 years ago by an allergist and told I have a grass allergy (rag weed & 1 other I am forgetting) - well GRASS never really bothered me until this spring!

Grass pollen is typically the main cause of late spring and early summer allergies. Grass pollen is highest at these times. (about.com)

I'm in misery!  It doesn't help that I am getting no sleep and finding it hard to breathe with out these sinus issues.  I have a list of approved med's and plan to use the saline nasal spray a lot this weekend.  Having a sinus infection though - makes me feel so lethargic... totally zaps my energy!  Maybe it's a trend my husband was sick on his birthday and it's looks like I'll be a little under the weather this weekend too.

Etsy Product Review: Handmade Headbands Sweet Pea Bloomz

Sweet Pea Bloomz

Head over to Sweet Pea Bloomz there are so many cute things to choose from I guarantee you'll have a hard time just ordering one item!  

Looking for something special for your child's photo session?  How about a great gift for a little girl? Want your shower gift to stand out? - Use a headband instead of a gift-bow on top of the present (neat idea, & functional)!  

I can't wait till my little gal arrives to try out these headbands on her.  The material is super soft, and the attention to detail is astounding.  The pieces are visually stunning in person - so adorable!  I think these will be great in newborn photo shoot and for special occasions (baptism, flower girl, 1st birthday).   These are much prettier than anything I have seen in a store!

I love supporting hand made artists and her work is truly professional, and so so sweet.  Ordering from etsy is stress free and you'll be supporting a small business. Package came in great condition, and in a timely manner nicely wrapped.  There is a wide variety of products to choose from... all shapes, colors, and sizes - something for everyone!  I love that they have coupon codes too for all the other frugal Mom's out there.  Check out the link at the bottom of this post for the facebook information.  

Don't forget to like Facebook: Sweetpeabloomz

15% off your FIRST purchase and 10% off every purchase after that when you "like" our facebook page.

For your FIRST purchase use code FIFTEEN at checkout and any purchase after that use code Sweetpeabloomz. 

When the DUE DATE is near….

So I remember looking at an app on my phone with a baby countdown, and thinking it’s so far away.  How did time go by so fast?  Some days I am totally ready for this lil gal to make her debut – others I think I could use another month of preparation.  

Today feels like I could use another month of preparation, but who know's how I'll be feeling tomorrow. I guess this is what I can expect once or little girl is here - the time will just fly past.  

Things that are stressing me Out

Nursery 

So it's painted but empty.  We could have had a major crisis - however I think we are going to be okay.  the double dresser we ordered was over sold and the collection we choose is now in back order.  However, if i would not have called the store, I don't know if I would have heard from them.  See, the thing is they hold your order until it's entirety for delivery and I don't know if we'd ever have found out our crib & toddler rail was there without me calling.  It's annoying to have to deal with last minute issues when the ordering process should be smooth.  I also enjoy decorating - quite a bit.  My problem now though is that I am having a hard time envisioning everything.  I wish I could get the crib with the bedding set up and then work around that.  Pictures are great when it comes to decorating - but sometimes it's just not enough.  

Family

There is always going to be times that are stressful, I get that.  Maybe it’s just being pregnant that I feel extra pressure and stress.  I just want everyone to be happy, healthy and most importantly considerate.  There are a lot of unknown’s floating around, just want everything to go smoothly.

Work

Well my current situation is certainly unique – working for a VERY small family business many friends in the corporate world can’t relate.  I am blessed to be able to stay at home and plan to leave work on May 1 – which unlike the baby’s arrival seems very far away.  I have limited patience and my nerves are shot.  I can’t say I am going to miss work - since I am mostly at an office by myself most days.  

Bring the baby home

The hubs and I were sitting on the couch yesterday and we just happen to think – this is going to be one of the last Sundays of just you and me sitting on the couch together.  It’s exciting and scary all at the same time.  I will say though – I think that throughout this entire pregnancy we have been busy.  Every weekend is just something else going on.  It’s really amazing how the calendar fills up so quickly.  

Product Review - The Original Cushy Door Closer

A common concern I hear among new Mother's is baby sleep issues. I really love The Cushy Closer Door Cushion product - it is so well made.  I have seen other similar products that are much thinner & lighter weight, the Cushy Closer is super Plush made from durable fabric material.  The Cushy Closer is quality that is made to last! I know quite a few Moms who could currently benefit from this.  It's such a fabulous idea!  I can't wait to actively put mine to use, when my little girl gets here!  I followed the directions and wiped the door area around the locking device and it works like a charm.  No sound at all entering or exiting the room.  

I really think this is helpful for those who are light sleepers in general.  I myself can get startled awake with the sound of a door clicking latch.  Also, in my condo during the spring &  summer months I love having the windows open.  However, it can sometimes create a cross breeze that causes our bedroom door to slam shut - it's actually really scary when it happens... the Cushy Closer would be prefect for those months.  With so many great uses - this is truly a gem!  Ordering from Etsy is so simple and easy.  The package arrived in great condition - the product ready for gifting right away!

Do you know a new Mom who could use one of these?

No More Noisy Doors! The Original Mom-Invented Cushy Closer; since 2007.

So nice supporting working Mom's here is a little Bio:
As two moms, with nine children between us, we've figured out a few things along the way; one of them being: We don't care how much noise a child can sleep through, there's something about the click of a doorknob or the rattling of a door that can break through even the deepest sleep.


The Cushy Closer Door Cushion:
-Allows quiet entry and exit while checking on sleeping children (without turning the knob/handle)
-Helps prevent children/adults from being accidentally locked in or out (bathrooms, bedrooms, house, etc.)
-Snug fit helps muffle door sounds (slamming, rattling, closing) while allowing the door to close completely and quietly
-Makes a unique yet practical baby shower gift Our Cushy Closer Door Cushions are handmade with quality materials, inside and out, and are designed to be long-lasting and hold their shape for a truly quiet door!

Proudly made in the USA!!!

Remember to visit them on:

facebook

twitter

and my favorite site: pinterest !

Handmade Headbands: Etsy Product Review Stacey's Neat Knits

Indulge in a Handmade headband

Head to Etsy at: Stacey's Neat Knits!

Unruly hair?  

Is it a dry shampoo day? 

Beauty Night with the girls?  

Keep your Hair out of your face while working out...

Stacey's goodies are so so so cute!  

Stacey is a stay at home Mom and makes so many wonderful handmade treasures.  Her headbands are super comfortable and very stretchy.  They can be made to accommodate any size.  I also appreciate the variety of different colors.  

These would make a great addition to a hospital survival kit for a new Mom, a cute headband for a little girl, or simple function & fashion when you need your hair out of your face but still want to look cute. I love the design and they are so comfortable on!  

These would be fun to give as party favors for a Bachelorette party, or bring to a spa day.  Shipment was super fast and arrived in great condition.  

I highly suggest checking out her Etsy handmade shop: Staceys Neat Knits.  

Check out these other wonderful items!

This Puff Flower Bobby Pin is so adorable!  

& 

I love her custom hand painted Beachy Day Baby Onesie !

  

Nursery Chair

Jamaica 2009

This past Sunday, my Husband and I had a realization - Motion Sickness is NOT in our heads.  It's a very REAL thing.  I have never dealt well with motion - but as I age it seems to get progressively worse.  

After an awful Honeymoon Boat in ride In 2009 ...we are timid to say the least when it comes to motion. While on our Honeymoon in Jamaica we took a glass bottom boat ride - from hell.  It was probably an hour ride that felt like FOREVER.  I was sick within minutes, and so was my husband.  I can laugh about it now, but at the time it was pure torture.  We passed smelling salts to one another to prevent throwing up as the crew instructed us to.  We drank about 5 glasses of ginger ale after exiting the boat, but we just didn't feel right the whole day.  





When we took our " Baby-Moon"  in December to Maui, I was determined to go whale watching.  I knew it was a once in a lifetime sort of thing and we had to make it work.  On our last trip to Maui the year before a hotel desk agent recommended  Bonine for motion sickness and ever since it's been our saving grace.  We just can't seem to find it in Chicago, but it does the trick trust me.  I was able to clear it with my Dr. and my husband and I had a successful whale watching adventure... on a boat!



This weekend we stopped at a couple baby stores and after sitting on a few gliders - we both felt sick and needed fresh air.  Motion Sickness Strikes again!  I did a little research and found that this is quiet common complaint for some new Mom's, wondering what to do.  

I want a chair for the nursery - just maybe not one that moves.  I read that as they get older taking them out of their space can signal wanting to stay awake and explore - so, that's not going to work.  I also can't believe how insanely expensive some gliders are- ouch!  I can't imagine spending almost the same about on a chair as I did the crib set.   This weekend we are planning a trip to Ikea... and I see an armchair and ottoman in our future.  

EKTORP JENNYLUND

Chair, Sågmyra gray, check

$229.00

OR

$199.00

So totally Sleepy - The Countdown Continues

I have Baby Brain Bad!

I'm also slightly freaking out that everything is now happening so fast.

Yesterday, I stopped at the grocery store and tried to put away all the items in the freezer - most of which did NOT go in the  freezer.  I a also sleepy - always.  I wake up feeling pretty good on most days then after breakfast - I start to slow down.  By the end of the day I wonder how I made it.  At least I am starting to sleep a little better, I can't imagine having the sleep problems I had in the past.  I have only been able to remember a few of my dreams, but I have also been having some crazy dreams.  I wake up thinking - WOAH, what were those about?  I honestly can't believe that I have less than 9 weeks left - it's truly CRAZY.

Today I filled out all my hospital paperwork and just need to fax the papers, and I'll be all done.  So I can check that off my list tomorrow.  

This weekend I think I will focus on the hospital bag/nursery decor - it seems like a tall order... I hope the hospital bag will become close to ready at least.  I am having a hard time with the nursery, because I am such a visual person and the room is empty.  I know it sounds overboard  but I just want it to be perfect.  I have this vision in my head and I just want what I want.... basically.

Happy St. Patrick's Day - Pregnant Style

30 Weeks

30 weeks

When I look at the pictures I don't think I look that big... or feel that big.  I am still wearing my same pre-pregnancy winter jacket.  I feel like some people still can't tell I'm pregnant without taking the winter coat off.  

It was a cold St. Pats day this year, but our party went off with out a hitch.  We have been hosting a party at our place for the past 8 years and a pregnancy wasn't going to stop us this year.  My husband made the corned beef, it turned out excellent - all 9 pounds of it!    I carried a huge water bottle to the Parade and it served me well.  I ate all the snacks too - I tried to watch portions but I am sure I over indulged at some point.  All in all a great holiday!

Shh Baby Sleeping: Product Review My Baby Munchkin

Adorable handmade goodies:  

My Baby Munchkin

Blog Readers Special Discount: 

Enter coupon code "BLYTHEJAMMER" for 10% off on purchases $15 or more 

(expires April 30th, 2013)

Door Muff by My Baby Munchkin

We all know how important sleep is for babies and new mom's alike.  This is such a great gadget that supports both Mom & baby.  I can sometimes can be startled awake by the sounds of the door opening & closing - a Door Jammer will take care of that problem. Door Jammers prevent startling a sleeping baby (toddler or adult) awake.  It also prevents the door from being locked.   I truly believe that every nursery cloud benefit from the use of  Door Jammers.  

The presentation is so pretty, who wouldn't love getting this treat in the mail?!?  

The attention to detail you get buying handmade products, never fails! (Etsy is super easy to order from - so don't let that stop you, if you have yet to make a purchase) Whatever you want to call it Baby Door Muff, Door Silencer, or Door Jammer this will make a great gift or order it for yourself. Even with so many styles to choose from if you do not see the style you are looking for, My Baby Munchkin will work to design a custom order with your choice of elastics!  That is the great thing about buying handmade - getting a product you truly love.  

Check out these other fabulous products:

My Baby Munchkin Teething Rings

My Baby Munchkin Pacifier Clip

My Baby Munchkin Bibs & Bandana Bibs

Don't forget!

Blog Readers Special Discount: 

Enter coupon code "BLYTHEJAMMER" for 10% off on purchases $15 or more 

(expires April 30th, 2013)

Feeling Yucky

Today is not a great day for me.  I woke up with a headache... don't you hate it when that happens?!?   

I am no stranger to headaches and migraines. I used to take prescription migraine medicine they'd get so bad. I started getting migraines when I was in high-school, and have gotten them ever-since.  For me the best remedy is sleep, quiet, and darkness.   I feel that is the remedy a lot of people use too... oh and maybe an ice pack.  

I also feel sick to my stomach today.  I hate that feeling!  I'm not really hungry - but I ate hoping with would maybe help with the headache, no such luck.  I even turned all the lights off in my office - we do have a lot of sunlight today to it's not a problem.  Just counting down the hours till I can go home today.. at least it's not getting any worse or else then I'd leave.   



I also for the past week have been experiencing terrible acne.  This is my first time with pregnancy acne really, up until now if I had a zit it was super tiny and went away fast.  Now, my face is full of giant painful white heads on my chin and around my mouth.  

I'm thinking it's all hormones.   Not only does it not look pretty - the zits really hurt!  I have been trying to hard not to pick or touch my face - it's so hard though.  Not that I usually do unless for the weekends or a special after work event, I have been using zero makeup.  I hope that lack of makeup will allow the skin to breath and heal.  I just feel so awful about it, totally affects my self-esteem.    

Onesie Stickers – Heads up Girls Product Review

I am in Love with this Etsy Store!

Check out : Heads Up Girls

COUPON CODE:

"BandB" for 30% any order over $20  - active for 2 weeks !!

The designs featured at Head Up Girls are so sweet - and not just for girls!  I have said it before and I’ll say it again Onesie Stickers make wonderful gifts!  I love creating special memories, especially with products that are handmade!  

For New Mom's out there - here  is a great gift idea.... frame all 12 months and give to the grandparents/godparents as a gift!


For those who are unaware, Onesie stickers are a small stickers that you apply to a Onesie or any other baby clothing you choose to denote a child's growing age each month or to mark first holidays.  Truly, a great idea!  

The shipment from Heads Up Girls arrived so quickly and in great shape.  If you have never ordered from Etsy.com it's easy and makes buying handmade goods a pleasurable experience.   

I love the packaging too – perfect for sending in the mail!  I am always looking for “envelope gifts"... it can often be so hard to find something useful to send in a greeting card. These Onesie Stickers would make a perfect addition to a new baby greeting card.  The colors are so crisp and clear, the print quality professional ....like nothing you could find in a big box store.  They are just so Cute!

I also love these other products!

Closet Dividers

Holiday Stickers

Pregnancy Stickers

Bow Tie Onesie Stickers

Check out their 2 other shops:

www.HeadsUpGirlsWeddings.Etsy.com

&

www.HeadsUpGirlsHolidays.Etsy.com

and... don't forget to like on facebook & follow on Twitter!

facebook.com
twitter.com/HeadsUpGirls

Pinned on the BlytheandBaby Pinterest Page here: Nursery Organization & Baby Photo Ideas