Short Luteal Phase2 A new post for katie058 and hopefully bcappel soontoo, as ours got too long!

Sorry I've only just replied ladies! A belated happy new year to you too! We really have been blessed! I regularly cry happy tears when I think about how lucky we are to have been blessed with such gorgeous healthy babies ??? ??

I hope you're all well?

We has a lovely Christmas and new year. I still can't quite believe how different things are to last year! ???

merry Christmas and happy new year mama's. we had a great holiday here. hope you all did too! I am nursing the Leah monster as we speak. she is such a love! I just looked back at last years posts and can't help but think we have all been so blessed. enjoy your little love bugs!

Hi ladies, merry late Christmas. Hope you enjoyed every second like I did?

Thank you! God I'm finding it hard enough to be a non-working mum at the moment! I'm loving every second of it of course though!

Good luck with your first day back. Have you gone back to work full time?

congratulations Sharon!

big girl. I am glad you and baby are well! enjoy every minute with her...it goes so fast.

I cant sleep...I start back at work tomorrow morning...now I will be a working, pumping mom.

Hi ladies! I had my baby girl on Friday at 8.10am. She weighed 8lb15oz and we called her Gabriella. She's perfect and I'm hoping to be able to leave hospital tomorrow ? Hope you and your lovely babies are doing well and looking forward to Christmas!

hey girls.

best wishes Sharon. keep us posted.

Leah is just perfect. she is 10 weeks old and has been sleeping through the night for a while. she is such a good baby. she doesn't whine or cry much except for her witching hour.

how is Spencer? how did he like Santa?

Hey ladies. Sharon thinking about u and ur in my prayers!! Tomorrow is Monday. That's so exciting. Try to get rest tonight even though I know ur nervous and excited. Can't wait to hear all about it.

How is ur little cutie Katie?? Spencer is 4 months and just saw Santa. It was so much fun!!

Thank you! How are you and baby Leah doing?

I'm ok thanks, am booked in for Monday to be induced/have a c-section, depending on what baby's position is on the day. They've booked me in for my EDD because I've got too much amniotic fluid so am at risk of cord prolapse if my waters break at home. So scared, so am resting lots to try to keep my waters intact. I'm very excited for Monday but also very scared. Hope it all goes well and baby girl is safe

I just wanted to say hello and that I am thinking of you guys. I hope all is well with you all.

Sharon I want to hear all about your little princess.

I hope it flies by! Had a fairly relaxing weekend, met a couple of friends for lunch yesterday and have started planning where to put the wall stickers in the nursery today! It's slowly starting to look like a nursery which is great! Have you been up to much this weekend? Are you managing to get much sleep?

wow Sharon. 6 weeks will fly by!

I know sex will be painful but I cant wait to get back in the saddle so to speak. Its been too long already. neither of us were into it towards the end of my pregnancy.

Leah had a cranky day today. hopefully she will sleep now.

anybody doing anything fun for the remainder of the weekend?

Thanks, it just feels odd going from having lots and lots of sex whilst we were ttc, to no sex at all for months! ?

Love your pic of Spencer with his cute outfit! I'm well thanks, can't wait to finish work but I've got just over 6 weeks left at work yet. How are you doing?

Don't feel unwanted. It was weird for my husband having sex with the whole baby in my belly :) he was worried he would hurt him. Guys r more paranoid. I was on bed rest a lot so we weren't allowed to do much at the end per docs orders.

Hope u ladies r doing well!!

Phew glad it's not just me worrying about it. The thought of sex after giving birth makes me shiver for that exact reason. I think we'll be leaving it a good few months, which is a shame as dh doesn't want to have sex now anyway ?. He says he doesn't know why but he just doesn't. He's up for everything else, just not sex. Made me feel a bit unwanted!

That's great that Spencer slept for 7 hours, hope you took full advantage of the rest/sleep opportunity! ?

Sharon- I was just like you the tear part scared me the most but I didn't realize I tore until I saw the doc stitching me up like Katie said. I didn't have a big tear but I was sore those next few days and no one really prepared me for that. No one also prepared me for the painful sex afterwards. It's been 9 weeks and we still can't have major sex. It hurts so bad. I have no idea how people get pregnant again so soon bc sex hurts lol.

My little man just slept 7 hours straight. The Velcro swaddle blanket is our lifesaver :)

I think it's the thought of the first toilet visit (both ends) that terrifies me, if I tear! I'm a massive wimp and both sound very painful! Stool softeners....I will definitely be taking them!!

happy 2 months Spencer! I am sure your mommy feels the same way I feel about my daughter ... curer by the second!

Sharon I had no idea I had the tear until the Dr said he wanted to stitch me up. I don't think the tearing itself hurt just the whole act of childbirth hurt.

my little peanut is so good. :) she is still asleep and I am awake for her feeding. go figure.

I hope you ladies had a great weekend.

Thanks for being honest Katie. I'm not worried about the labour to be honest. Although, when it starts I know I'll be absolutely petrified. Am worried about tearing as that sounds so so painful, and I will take any drugs that they offer me, willingly. I'm hoping for a natural labour and will try to last as long as I can without pain relief, but I imagine that I'll be begging for it after the first big contraction! ??

Happy 2 month birthday baby Spencer! ??

That's awesome Katie!! Congratulations on a happy, healthy baby. My little guy has had a clogged tear duct in each eye. It's pretty common but we freaked out at first too thinking it was pink eye.

I'm just so happy that everyone is healthy. My little guy just turned two months and its flown by. Enjoy her and try to rest as much as you can.

Sharon- you're next :) can't wait!!

WARNING ...this is all detailed. labor wasn't too bad but the following contains all the ugly/gross/unpleasant details. don't be afraid but be aware.

labor was tough at the time but looking back and hearing stories it wasn't so bad. I went into the hospital around 3 or 4 pm because my Dr felt he wanted to induce me the next day but monitor me before. when I got hooked up I was having mild contractions but couldn't feel them. by 9 pm I was in pain so they gave me a tiny shot of morphine and a sleeping pill. I couldn't sleep and was in pain by 12/1 am. so they gave me another morphine shot. that shot did nothing and by 3 am I was 9 cm dialated. they gave me 2 shots in the back (not quite as lasting as an epidural) but certainly helped. I think I started pushing around 5ish. at first I felt nothing but the meds wore off in time for full on labor. they ended up giving me petocin because my labor slowed and she arrived at 7:48 am. I had a 2nd degree tear but now, 1 week later I barely feel it.

a word to the wise...take any stool softeners they offer. it doesn't hurt the baby and makes you less stressed/more comfortable when you go for the first time after baby.

how are you feeling?

Yay! Congratulations Mummy! So happy for you Katie! Your dream has come true! Bet this is the most amazing feeling in the world! Beautiful name and lovely healthy weight too.

?????????

Glad she's ok after your scare too. Here starts a world of never ending worry! ?

How was your labour, if you don't mind me asking?

hey girls. its official. I am a mom! Leah patricia arrived Friday morning at 7:48 am weighing 7 lbs 14 oz and measuring. 21 inches long. she is an absolute delight. I cant believe how beautiful she is. my sister thinks she looks like a baby version of Anne Hathaway ...I will take it!

she is breastfeeding about every 3 hours for 15 -20 minutes at a time and gaining weight like a champ. my nipples are super sore but whatever.

we had our first scare today. she has a blocked tear duct which causes her eye to swell and look like she has pink eye. I don't think my husband will ever let her leave the house again but she is fine.

hope you all are well.

Ha ha ha that's really funny Katie (the bit about the elephant, not the fact that you're feeling v uncomfortable)! Hope she arrives very soon! Any day now could be your time!

Meggy that doesn't sound horrible at all. No-one wants to go down the ART route and hopefully it won't be necessary for you. I hate how af plays all these tricks on you...always getting our hopes up only for them to be dashed again. Hope your af arrives soon (if shes coming at all) so that you can start on a fresh month ?

Sharon a surprise shower is always fun. I hope you enjoy it!

meggy I completely understand not wanting to jump to ART especially when you already have a little one. just know that if you need to go that route we are here to support you.

I feel like an elephant! I don't think this kids ever coming out. :)

and yes an elephant has a gestation period of 640+ days...something I looked up since I cant do very much. :)

enjoy the end of your weekend girls.

No we haven't considered that. Simply because we haven't wanted to go that far. I think we are both still in denial about the amount of time it is taking and really wanted to go at this the good old fashioned way. Does that sound horrible? Apologies if it does.

As of today I am one day late for AF, ovulation was confirmed with bbt but absolutely no sign of AF arriving. A plethora of tests all of which have been negative. I don't know what the hell is going on lol.

Glad to hear of other people going through the same thing and having success though. That's always promising :D xx

I've got my shower on 5th October and I can't wait! My friends are arranging it as a surprise for me so I don't know any more than the date and time. Love it!

I'm feeling really well thank you, quite breathless all the time and things take me alot longer to do cos I have to go slowly but even so I feel like I've still got more em every than I expected to have.

Its so exciting that your labour could literally start any minute Katie! How are you feeling?

hey girls. no baby yet...no new feelings either. I guess this is just one way to get me more prepared for the unpredictable.

meggy we are all About ART here. I used ivf and it worked on the 1st shot. it put me at ease to know someone else had to make it happen because we couldn't. weirdly it took the pressure off.

brittney its wonderful your grandmother got to spend time with Spencer. everything happens for a reason. :)

Sharon how are you feeling? energetic, tired?

When ru having ur shower Sharon? That's when things get busy and fun:) then u can start putting everything away and u know she will b here soon!!

I'm sorry meggy. I understand, if u had something then there would b a plan but I agree with Sharon. Maybe an iui would do the trick. I had lots going on with me and my dh and an iui did the trick for us. I know it's frustrating.

I'm almost 29wks now and loving every second of this!

Meggy my dh and I were ttc for 2.5 yrs and decided to go for ivf, rather than wait any longer. We too had all the tests and everything looked great but it still wasn't happening for us. Like you say, you're pleased they haven't found anything, but it's so frustrating when it just doesn't happen. Have you thought about trying iui, ivf etc?

Spencer's a great weight, no wonder you're so pleased! ??

Hey Katie. I'm so glad ur scan went well. They had to Break my water but I was 5 cm dilated. And I was losing my mucus plug. He came Two weeks early but I'm so grateful because my grandma got to see him before she passed. She just loved him so much And I'm so glad She got to spend as much time together as they did.

Not too much longer and ur little girl will b here:)

Yes he smiles now all the time. It's so sweet. He loves music and his mobile. He is so attentive.

Any plans for the holiday weekend?

Thank you Bcapp. I'm glad they didn't although sometimes I imagine it would be easier for me to comprehend if they have found something if that makes sense. Ugh.

Katie- we have been NTNP for 2.5 years and actively trying for 11 months now. We have a nearly 4 year old and he took 4 years to conceive. Just feels like it is never going to happen. Never had anything before or since. :(

hey girls. welcome Meg. how long have you been ttc?

I had a nonstress test yesterday to make sure baby is happy. no contractions yet so Dr said if I don't have her by 9/8 he will induce me. its wild to think about! he offered to induce me today but I said no. I figure if she is comfy in there it may be for a reason. why mess with her unless I have to?

brittney does Spencer smile at you now? my sister's baby is 6 weeks and she is starting to smile now. its so cute!

Sharon aren't ultrasounds amazing? its the greatest connection when you see and feel them moving at the same time. at my 40 week scan yesterday I got to see her practicing her breathing. it was so cool!

I'm glad they didn't find anything wrong meggy. Just hang in there:) we r always here for u and support!!

Thank you Bcap. Apparently I don't need meds :( we've had tests and all is well. Ugh. Glad it worked for you :D

Sharon- I'm so glad ur scan was all good!! Those r the best moments ❤❤ how far along ru now??

Good luck meggy!! Once I got the right meds it worked:)

Sharon- I always went into Spencer's room when I was pregnant. I would sit in the rocking chair and read to him in my belly:) and thanks. We think he is super cute. He is growing like crazy. He had a dr appt yest to check his weight bc he lost so much at the hosp. Born he weighed 6'8, going home he weighed 5'8, yesterday he was 9'12. The dr was thrilled!!

Getting some sleep tonight. I gave in (bc it was so much easier) and had the baby sleeping with me but last night I moved him to his pack n play. I hear him trying to wake up for his nightly feeding but he did so good!!

Thank you wantababy. I thought that would be the answer. I guess I should join you ladies soon. Eurgh. Baby dust to everyone!!! Xx

Spencer Joseph is just beautiful! Congratulations! We've got a few names in mind but we're still undecided on which one to go for!

Hi meggy, don't feel you're intruding at all! I understood that a short luteal phase is less than 10 days.

Thanks for your advice re breastfeeding Britney and Katie. I'm going to try but, if I can't do it I'm going to try not to beat myself up about it. I'd be able to do that if people (like the midwives etc) don't pressurise me too much! I'm sure they will be hopefully they won't!

I'm always popping into my spare room at every opportunity, just looking at it and thinking how I never thought I'd be lucky enough to need a cot in there! I can't wait to have a baby in there!

Had a growth scan yesterday and everything is fine. Saw her kick and felt the kick at the same time, was such a lovely feeling!

Are you finding that you're getting much sleep Britney?

Sorry to intrude, can I please ask what is classed as a short luteal phase? Mine is 12 days and I read different things saying below 10 is short then other things say 12 days is too short. Confused.

I posted a pic of my little guy in the July 2013 board. I would have posted here but didn't want to seem insensitive.

Definitely Katie. U will find what works for you and baby and that's what matters:) I loved breast feeding at first and the quality time. I did it up until 4 wks and he is 7 wks today. So like I said now I'm pumping and feeding and supplementing if I have to so he doesn't get dehydrated. I'll be ur support team either way:)

brittney - thanks for the sharing your story. I read online constantly about people who are diehard breastfeeders / pumpers. they can be highly judgemental and downright nasty about their feelings on feedings. I am of the opinion of you do what works for you and your baby. I'm glad you found your groove. :)

Sharon enjoy creating your nursery. now that ours is basically done I just sit in there and look around. I cant believe how soon she will be here.

Sharon- Doing the nursery and buying clothes was so much fun. I found a lot of stuff off Pinterest for the nursery. It does feel surreal but it's amazing. Not sure when ur shower is but I asked for books instead of cards. That way each person could sign the babies book and it basically completed his book collection. We got so many books. Do you have a name yet??

Katie- I tried to breast feed but he just wasn't getting full. I got mastitis very early on which is an infection in the breast and hurt my supply. Now I breast feed and supplement formula since my supply never caught back up. He is eating more than I can produce. I've been pumping more lately so other people can help feed. Especially my husband at night:). Do what's best for u and ur baby. I felt guilty if I didn't breast feed bc of the pressures but in the end I tried and am still doing it to my best ability. It's hard and helps if u have support. Good luck with ur test!!

Hope the test goes well today. Have never heard of that test, what are they looking for?

You're right, washing (and maybe ironing some of those) those tiny little clothes will feel so so odd, but so so good! ???

hey girls

no baby yet. I go to the doctor tomorrow for a nonstress test. I have a feeling she will be here on Friday or Saturday. but hey I don't really know.

Brittany did you chose to breadtfeed bottlefeed or a Combo? I am not judging I am just curious...I would like to breastfeed but I don't want to spend my time with baby feeling guilty if it doesn't work for us.

Sharon wait until you start washing the clothes and putting them away...its wild!

Britney! How lovely to hear from you! I've often wondered how you are! Congratulations on your little man, that's amazing news!

I'm due November 18th, from my first ivf cycle. We were so lucky that it worked for us first time. ??

I'm loving every second of pregnancy and I can't wait to meet our baby girl. Have started to set the nursery up and bought baby's first outfits yesterday. Felt very odd buying them and I think it's gonna take a bit of getting used to.

I'm so excited for you Katie, this time next week you could have baby Leah in your arms! ????????

Can't wait until she's here!!!! It's amazing. He is 6 weeks and getting big so fast.

I know it's hard but try n sleep as much as u can now. Sleep disappears once the baby arrives.

Both of u make sure to keep me updated:) I love to hear the birth stories. I was 4cm dilated and went to labor n delivery bc of spotting. It was my mucus plug. 16 hrs later and one epidural I had the cutest boy ever!!

congratulations Brittany! enjoy your little man! how is he doing?

Leah should be here any day now! I am not resting as much as I should be. I am nesting like crazy! getting last minute baby items from the store, putting clothes away, food shopping, getting my husband all of the deodorant he will ever need, crazy things like that. :)

I have a nonstress test on Thursday if I don't go into laborious before then. its really happening!!!!

it sounds like the baby's room is coming along Sharon! have fun with the stickers. they are always so cute!

Hi ladies!!!! Sorry I've been MIA. I had to take a break and was soooo happy to read ur alls stories. I had my miracle, spencer Joseph on 7/11 @ 2:28am. He is 6 weeks yesterday and the biggest blessing. I can't wait to hear when ur alls blessings arrive. It's amazing:) I'm just so excited for u both!!

Everything I log in I think your post is going to tell me that Leah has arrived! ? It's so exciting knowing that she'll be here anyday!

The cot is built and I'm going to order the drawers next week, then it's just dressing the room and we're done. I've for some stickers for the walls but not sure if I'll use them yet, as the room is quite small. How's yours coming along?

I feel really good thank you, feel very stretched by the end of each day though and people tell me I'm growing loads by the week so I'm not surprised! I love being pregnant so much but ok even more excited for November to get here quickly! ???

Hope you're taking it easy and resting lots now?!

I know. Leah will probably be here some time this week! its so crazy!

dh will certainly take some time off but I am not sure how much. he will be taking a class midday on Monday and Thursday through October so he wont be working those days which is nice for me. it will be great to have bonus family time.

how are you feeling? how is the nursery coming along?

It's so exciting that you could be a mummy any day now! Every time I log on here I do wonder if there'll be a reply from you saying you've had baby Leah! I'm so excited for you and it's been great to share your entire journey with you ??

Will dh have some time off work with you after baby is born?

the nursery should be done by Friday. hopefully Leah wont arrive until after Friday. I am down to one week left now but people keep telling me I am still carrying high. I would not mind going late. she can be well done. :)

I am so glad the weather is nice for you. enjoy!

its strange to think that I will be a mommy any day now!

I'm having trouble bending too and I've still for 3 months to go! I was holding my friends baby the other day, vent down to pick something up off the floor and very nearly had to ask her to take the baby so I could get up again! It was not pretty!! ?

The weather here is just right...warm but not too warm! Very unusual for the uk as our summers usually last a few days! ?

So technically you could give birth any day?! That is SO exciting!!! Have you got your hospital bag packed? Hope you managed to get the nursery all set up?!

I am down to the final 2 weeks and I am having trouble bending. sadly, I find shaving my legs difficult.

I should be able to move baby things into the room this week. I cant wait!

my husband's bagpipe band is in Scotland right now. he was supposed to go but its too close to baby Leah's arrival. how is the weather in the Uk? its been so comfortable here. I hope the weather is nice by you now. it makes pregnancy so much easier.

Ooh sounds like you're making great progress! Bet it will look lovely once its done and thank goodness your dh and neighbour can do it, whilst you try to rest. How are you feeling lately? Bet you're feeling quite uncomfortable now?! I'm starting to feel very stretched by the end of the day when I'm quite bloated! Still loving every second of it though! ???

the baby will be with us for about a month (we think). then she will go across the hall. dh and my neighbor primed her room and the hall today. they plan to paint tomorrow (hopefully) . our room needs some work and her dresser needs to be painted so that may come next. I am encouraging her to stay cozy for the next 2 weeks. as much as I cant wait to meet her I want her home to be what it should be.

even an empty baby's room is exciting. its a clean slate for you and dh to come together for your little one. enjoy it!

Thank you! The wedding was lovely and my dress didn't look as tight as I thought in the end...maybe I just stretched it during the day!

Will baby sleep in your room to start with anyway? If so, that'll give you plenty of time to get the nursery painted. I'm going to order our cot tomorrow/tonight and the chest if drawers too. The spare room is empty now and it's so exciting to think that a cot and lots of pretty/cute pink stuff is going in there! ??

getting the nursery furniture is so exciting! enjoy it!

the nursery needs to be painted and the furniture has to go in. I am hoping my neighbor will paint this week. he does side work as a painter and we are running out of time.

I have been told to keep doing what I am doing. although I am dialated the Dr feels everything is on track and going well. I have been trying to rest up though since my feet are really swelling.

I had to laugh when I read about your dress because I have been there. its frustrating in some ways and kind of fun in other ways. have fun at the wedding.

Welcome home!!

I want sure if you might've had your baby and been really busy!

Glad you had a nice time at your sisters and hope you got a little bit of rest too!

I haven't looked for any outfits really, but I will do in a few weeks when all the winter stuff comes out in the shops. Can't wait! Am going to order the nursery furniture next week cos we're finally getting rid of the bed in our spare room. Can't wait!

I'm going to a wedding tomorrow and I bought my outfit a few weeks ago. Tried it on last week and it fit. Tried it on today and its a little too tight now! I can still get it on but I'll just have to spend all day wriggling the dress down to my knees! Arghhh!

How is the nursery looking? Is it just the painting left to do? Have you been told to get lots of rest, since you've started dilating? Or have they just said to carry on as normal?

I'm almost 26wks now and am feeling very stretched! ??

hey there! sorry I have been mia. I spent the last week and a half with my sister in new Jersey. I loved spending time with my new niece. she is absolutely adorable! I really tried to give my sister a break and I think she appreciated it.

we got our wood floors refinished while I was away. they look amazing! now we have to paint for baby Leah. there is a lot to do in the next 3 weeks...hopefully she doesn't arrive early. I started dialating (1.5 cm) but the dr still thinks I will go the full 40 weeks.

did you find any cute coming home outfits? they have beautiful (but expensive) clothes at Janie and Jack. I don't know if they have an online shop though.

I started feeling movement around 17wks but that was just flutters. Now I can feel and see regular movement and can also tell the difference between hands/feet kicking and baby movement. I love it! My favourite thing in the world is getting home from work, putting comfy clothes on and sitting back whilst baby moves around. I had a big dinner last night and she was going crazy afterwards. Dh tried to video my tummy moving but she stopped every single time he started filming with his phone! Very stubborn little girl! ??

You're very right. I think I'm going to order the nursery furniture in 2wks time as we've got someone staying over in the spare room in a couple of weeks, so we need to keep the big bed till then. Am going to have a little peek for a 'coming home' outfit online now (if there are any nice non-summer clothes out) and then will make myself but a few items of clothing the next time I go shopping! I think I'll cry! ???

Have you got much planned for the weekend?

I think its pretty safe to say you're able to buy some baby things. give yourself a break and buy an outfit or bib or even some adorable accessories ...its all fun and makes it feel so real! have you felt any real movement yet? I think I started feeling movement at 22-24 weeks but it was very faint. now it seems there is an alien doing backflips inside me without worrying if she hits my bladder or some other more painful spot. you will see sooner than you think. :)

That's what I thought would happen too...normal pregnancy when you graduate back to your normal doctors. I'm not complaining though, very pleased that they're keeping such a close eye on me.

In that case then, you want November to take as long as possible to get here and I wasn't it to hurry hurry! ? Still doesn't feel real, but I suppose it will do when we've set the nursery up and I let myself actually buy something!

for me once I hit 12 weeks I was treated as a regular pregnancy. I would only be considered high risk if they found a problem. as I approach the final 5 weeks I will be checked up at the Dr every week but I don't know if I have any more ultrasounds left. I get to hear the heartbeat each time I go to the Dr which is great though.

believe it or not November isn't too far off. I will be going back to work at the end of November so we will essentially be trading places.

rest up where you can.

Wow that sound like nesting! Glad you're having to take it slow though, that must be very tiring! I find even walking up a few steps tiring! If everything goes well and to plan I'm hoping to finish work at the start of November, have 2 weeks holiday leave that I've saved and then start my maternity leave on my due date. I hope it works out like that but we'll see!

I'm being monitored more because its an ivf pregnancy and getting scanned at 28, 34 and 38 wks and induced at 40 wks if I make it that far. Are they doing the same for you? I was quite surprised (but very pleased) when they told me.

dh is still working on the baby's room. we actually decided to have our wood floors refinished next week so we are packing up our entire house and trying to squish it all into our basement, attic, and garage ...no stress...ha ha ha!

I know it will be beautiful when its done but its a bit stressful in the process. plus I am tired and move more slowly now so I feel like its taking 10 times as long as it should to get packed up.

when do you stop working?

I can't wait to get the nursery ready! How did dh get on with yours?

I think I've gained about 13-15lbs so far, so I think that's about right. Same as you though, as long as the baby's healthy I don't care what I look like! Plenty of time afterwards to eat healthy and exercise! ?

its so exciting when you get the big ticket items! I know it will be so real when we see the nursery set up.

I love resting but I think the nesting phase has kicked in. I feel like I want every single thing in my house super organized.

I have gained a ton of weight! I can't believe I still have over a month and I have gained 36 lbs. the books all say you should gain about 25 lbs in total. as long as she is healthy that's the most important.

That's a good idea! I'll save a few bits that I've chosen and go shopping with her to buy them.

I'm not surprised you don't feel like helping!...make the most of the rest! I'm sure dh would prefer to do it on his own whilst you rest, too.

We ordered our pushchair today...quite expensive but v pretty and practical! We can pick it up as late as we want to too, which is handy.

Leah Patricia is very pretty and great that you can keep both families happy with the name ?

I think we are going with Leah patricia. patricia is dh moms name and Leah was my grandmother's name. this way both sides of the family are happy.

I understand what you mean about shopping. I love shopping in sweatpants eating ice cream. maybe you can appease your mom by inviting her over to show her what you ordered and then maybe pick one item that you can shop for together. that's a pretty good compromise.

dh has been working hard on baby's room. I just wish I could help. I feel so lazy laying around all day but that's pretty much what I am up for doing.

Ahh that's a lovely name and leaves Leah free for you too! ?

We're still 'debating' on the names! All the ones I love/like, dh doesn't like. We decided on a name quite early on, really easily, but dh has decided he doesn't like it anymore! ???? Did you decide on a middle name?

Hope dh is in that nursery getting it ready! ? I've found lots of nursery bedding etc that I love today and have put it all in my 'shopping bag', but having to wait for dh to get home from work to make sure he likes it!

My mum wants to come shopping with me to buy baby stuff, but I've chosen most of it online already. I feel really bad, but I can't bear the idea of spending hours shopping (when there's not very many baby shops even in the huge shopping centre nearby, so a rubbish choice), when I can find something I love online whilst watching tv in my pjs. Am I being selfish?! ?

her baby is Anna rose which I think is very pretty. I am getting used to calling my baby Leah. it makes it so real!

what names have you thought of?

Ah congratulations to your sister! Did she call her baby Leah or did she chose a different name in the end?

Glad you're feeling we'll and hope the road trip doesn't make you sick. Enjoy! ??

we have all of the essentials now but there are some things I still want. curtains, extra bib's extra sheets, things like that.

my sister had her baby Tuesday so my brothers and I are driving to new Jersey to see them today. its about 2.5 hours each way so we will see how I do...I have some car sickness.

feel good.

Wow not long at all for you! Hope dh gets moving on that nursery...you're not gonna have much time to keep popping in to look at it, whilst its all near, tidy and clutter free! ?

I'm sleeping fine thanks, mainly cos I'm so tired by the time we get to bed! I haven't really had any back pain yet, which is sharps using because my posture is awful when I sit at my desk at work. The main pain I have is my bum!...it feels like I'm sitting on a bag of bones the whole time, which I really am not!...I have definite padding there!

Have you bought everything you need now?

i have 6.5 weeks left. its so crazy!!!

you will enjoy shopping! I know I did. at the rate dh is going you might be done with your nursery before we are. just kidding ...I hope.

I am sure I will be busy once baby gets here. I have just never been off work for this long in my life! it will be hard going back in the middle of the year. the kids will have to adjust and so will I. :)

have you had any back pain? how are you sleeping?

I think we will start ordering things on Sunday as some places take 10-12wks to deliver. I'm so excited, I never thought that say would come. I sometimes stand in our spare room and picture it actually being a nursery and soon it will be! ????

Is it very got where you are? I hope not, cos that must be so uncomfortable for you. I've started to get up more from my desk now, cos I just get too uncomfortable! Another 16wks of this, with me being far bigger, is going to be interesting!

You might be feeling guilty if you're getting bored being off work and are used to bring busy all the time. I'm sure those feelings will go when baby arrives! So exciting! How many weeks are you now? You've only got a few weeks left haven't you?

I am on vacation until the baby comes! I am loving it but apparently part of me feels guilty to be out of work. I had a nightmare last night that it was the first day of school and I wasn't ready...aweful!

its definitely important to change positions. it will keep you more comfortable. can you set an alarm on your phone to remind you to get up or something periodically? that may help.

I think you are safe to start shopping...go out and enjoy! :)

Good I'm glad it does! I really want to start buying things, but I'm still scared to.

Hope dh managed to get the nursery done! You've finished work now haven't you? Net it's nice to be able to rest when you want to?! I'm already uncomfortable sitting down all day at work and I know it's going to get alot more uncomfortable! Have to make sure I keep getting up to walk around but it's sometimes hard when I'm so busy ?

dh will be working on the nursery Saturday and we have my nephews christening Sunday. I am excited to spend time with family but I wish dh had a chunk of time to work on the nursery.

I know what you mean about it not seeming real. I still hold my breath at every doctor visit until I hear the heartbeat. I don't think it will be totally real until I am holding her. I will tell you that it becomes even more real as the weeks go on. :)

Ooh that would drive me mad too! Hope he's going to do it soon!

I don't think I'll choose animal themes, I think I'll go more towards teddy type stuff. If I'm honest I'm still scared to think about that much detail as it still doesn't feel real, even though I have a sufficiently big bump and can feel baby daily. I love being pregnant! ?

Have you got much planned for the weekend? Dh is building the nursery I hope! ?

we are doing white furniture too! we started shopping for nursery things around 20 weeks or so. we still haven't put the nursery together yet which is driving me nuts! dh still has to paint, finish the floors and put in the windows. I want to start putting clothes in drawers and I cant since we are so undone. I am trying very hard to be patient but its hard!

any characters that you like or animals that you like for the nursery?

I've spent some time looking at pushchairs and nursery furniture, online. Have found the buggy I want which isn't cheap but is practical and beautiful. Have found a few things I like for the nursery but can't find what I want in a set, so am going to have to but separately. I'd really like to see it before we order though, so think we're going shopping next weekend. I can't wait! I've chosen white furniture for the nursery but I'm not sure about any theme or bedding etc! How soon did you get your nursery ready? I still feel its a bit too soon, but I know that some places take ages to deliver it.

Your day by the pool sounds lovely! Bet it was great to catch up in the sun! You must be so excited, I can't believe you're nearly there already! ???

20 weeks is a great milestone. congratulations!

have you picked a theme or color scheme for the nursery? its so fun to look around!

I am a bit uncomfortable. its been unbearably hot here. I spend almost all day in air conditioning. I'm off to a friends house now to swim in her pool and catch up with 2 pregos and 1 new mommy. it should be fun.

dd is not letting me nap as often as I would like. when I get comfy she starts moving around. hopefully we will be on a better schedule when she is here.

rest up while you can!

I'm pretty much the same as you. I'd like a natural birth if possible, will take whatever drugs I need/they recommend but would rather not have a c section unless that's the best option of course!

We had our 20wk scan on Friday and everything appears fine, thank goodness! Feels wierd knowing that that's the last one now! How are you feeling? You must be quite uncomfortable by now?

I haven't thought too much about the birth. I am the type of person where I want the Dr to tell me what is best in the situation. I am assuming to have a natural birth and I don't have a problem with pain meds if necessary. I am open to a c section too if that's best for us. what about you? what are your thoughts on delivery?

Oh I definitely am sleeping as much as possible, whilst its not too uncomfortable! I can't e elite you've only got 8 weeks left either, it only seems like a few months ago that you got your bfp! ?

Have you decided (as much as you can decide!) what type of birth you'd like to have?

2 under 2 does seem like a lot but it will probably be fun too!

I cant believe I only have 8 weeks left!

sleep whenever you can. as your pregnancy progresses you will be less able to sleep.

Lucky you! No more work and baby very soon! ??

I'm well thank you, been getting a bit of heartburn and get tried fairly early but am just having as many early nights as possible. Met one of my friends today for dinner and she's due week Saturday! So excited for her! It's her 2nd though and she's a bit worried about having 2 under 2! ?

yes. work is done (thankfully). I am 31 1/2 weeks...which is crazy! I keep catching glimpses of my profile in store windows and mirrors and I am constantly shocked at how big I have gotten. now the real weight will get piled on. the whole process is unbelievable.

how ate you doing now that you've hit the halfway mark? you must see some changes in yourself now. do you have s bit of energy?

Coughing will definitely not hurt her so please try not to worry about that. It might keep her awake for a while but I'm sure she'll get her revenge the minute she's born! ?

That's great that you had your shower at a restaurant, no tidying up for you! Yippee!!

You've finished work now haven't you?! How many weeks are you now? I'm 20wks today so half way there!!

it was really nice. we went to a restaurant near my house and had lunch. we got loads of great baby gear. I am still working on organizing it and putting it away.

I am feeling less movement lately which I have read is normal since she is running out of room. I also have been coughing like crazy and I can see my stomach muscles squeezing my belly. I hope I am not annoying her too much.

with all of my coughing i have been stressing that i will lose her. i know its highly unlikely but i am a ball of nerves. like you I think it wont be fully real until I am holding her.

Ahh that's lovely Katie! Did you have a of people round to your house? I bet you got loads of lovely gifts! That'll be so nice to see your nursery filled with all the lovely pink girly stuff! ?

I have moments where it starts to feel real but nothing that's really stayed with me yet, I don't think it'll feel completely real until the baby is in my arms. ? Wow I can't wait for that moment ?

hi Sara. my Lp was about 9-10 days too but again I am not sure that was my issue. I have diminished ovarian reserve and dh has poor morphology. ivf was our miracle. the Dr tried giving me progesterone before we did ivf but it didn't work for me.

I had my baby shower yesterday. it was really nice. my living room is filled with fitly things. it makes this very exciting ...and real.

I hope dh is planning on working on the baby's room today.we need to put this stuff somewhere!

hayfever is the worst! try to rest up.

Yes unexplained is definitely frustrating.. glad you guys finally get your miracle babies though :)

Hi Sara mine was approx 9/10 days, which according to the books/websites I've read, is a little too short/borderline. But I'm unsure if this was what stopped us conceiving naturally and I'm afraid I never didn't find anything that lengthened it. IVF did work for us both but I'm not sure if that had anything to do with the Luteal Phase. Unexplained infertility is so frustrating. I hate not knowing!

If you ladies don't mind me asking how long was your short leutal phase? Cause i have a very short one like 5dpo and getting pregnant will never happen i feel like cuz af starts too soon. Is there anything i can do to lengthen it?

Oh nor you poor thing, hope you're feeling better now and dh is looking after you. I've got terrible hayfever and can't take anything for it, so have just been having early nights and have been rubbish company which I don't think dh is impressed about!

I'm very lucky that I can take a year off and can't wait for it to start. I'll be 20wks on Monday, very excited to reach the halfway mark! Have you got much planned for your weekend? Working on the nursery?! ??

how wonderful that you are able to take a year off! I wish the u.s supported working mothers more. most jobs only get 6/8 weeks paid leave depending on whether you have a natural birth or c section. then I can take up to 2 school years unpaid but I would lose seniority which is too scary in this climate. 12 weeks is ok but it makes me a bit sad. dh will be home with her and i am sure he will bewonderful with our little girl.

you will have so much fun shopping! I know I am loving it.

you must be happy dh seems to have come around. buying a mother and child magazine is very thoughtful!

so...I have been fighting a cold for almost a week now and I found out today that I have pink eye. such a mess! I just keep sleeping and coughing. the mess the Dr prescribed are helping but I hats that I have to take them...

That's great that you won't have to pay for childcare and can still spend plenty of time with your baby girl! ?

I plan to take 1 year off work, which is the maximum that I can take. The last 3 months will be unpaid but I'm sure we'll work out the money situation as I know that I'd always regret it if I didn't take my maximum time off.

I'm desperate to start buying stuff and I think we'll start to after my 20wk scan next Friday.

I didn't get chance to get a onesie in the end so I just for him a card and I think he liked it, although I can never tell with him! He did but me a Mother & Baby magazine yesterday though, which I thought was really sweet of him. Every single page is so interesting! Far better than any gossip magazine!!

we haven't set up the nursery yet. dh is working on renovating the room. he has always been a last minute kind of guy. it drives me nuts!

look into the onesies. they are crazy cute!

I wish I had more than 12 weeks off but we cant afford to go without any more paychecks than that. I am the breadwinner of the house. dh will be going to school for accounting in the fall and does carpentry work now. during the day he will watch the baby and at night he will go to school. I am bummed I wont be home but I get out pretty early so I will still get some quality time with my dear daughter.

what is your plan when the baby comes?

I thought about the onesie thing but I wasn't sure if that's make him worse. Will have a look at them online to see what I can find!

I bought you'd get longer than 12wks off work, being a teacher. Have you planned who will look after your baby girl whilst you're at work? Hope the 12wks goes nice and slowly for you so that you can savour every lovely moment ???

Yes my EDD is 18th November, so still a while to go yet! I'm sure it'll start to go quickly after our next scan (5th July) as we plan to start buying things then. Can't wait for that!! Have you got your nursery all set up and ready yet?

thanks Mrs Cruz!

my edd is August 30th so I will have approximately 12 weeks with my little girl before I must return to work. I am thankful for the time but I know I will want more time with her.

tell dh cute stories from when you were a girl. buy a daddy's girl onesie. show him pictures of you as a kid. he will melt!

remind me again of your due date. November is it?

Thank you Mrz!

Yes I've been wearing maternity clothes since about 9wks cos my work trousers/skirts no longer fitted me from all the bloating! I've never had more than 3 weeks off work, so I can't wait! As you say though, we'll be doing a very different (but amazing) kind of 24hr a day work though! You're so lucky having that long off work to spend with your baby girl! What is your actual EDD?

I'm just waiting for dh to get used to the idea of having a girl (hopefully this happened before the birth) and then I'll pin him down for the name conversation! I have lots to choose from (that I'm sure he'll dislike). ???

Congratulations ladies!!!

just wait until dh sees a daddy's girl onesie. he will melt.

so exciting! girl clothes are so cute! we will both be having fun dressing our little ladies.

now the fun name game begins for you!

today is the last full day for the kids. I am still in for another week and a day after this week but when the kids are only in for 1/2 days life is simpler. I am getting excited for my time off. I wont be back to work until the end November. I have never not worked for so long in my life. I know my lovely daughter will keep me in work but I am enjoying the thought of not being at work.

have you bought some maternity clothes yet?

Sorry it's taken me ages to reply, we've had a really busy weekend! Baby is doing well and we'll be having tea parties and buying pink dresses! I can't stop grinning!!!

Dh was desperate for a boy though, so he's still trying to 'get used to the idea'. ?????

Ana's a nice name, keep telling her how lovely everyone thinks it is and hopefully she'll stick with it! ?

How was your weekend? How many days have you for left at work now? So exciting!!!

we haven't really thought of a backup name yet. my sister says she is going to name her daughter Ana but I don't trust her. we will have to wait and see.

so how did it go? I am excited to hear whether you will be having tea parties or wrestling.

Thank you! Will let you know how we get on! Am very nervous, have been awake for ages and its 5am here!

Have you got a back up name incase your sister does use it? Or has she given you any indication if she will?

That's lovely that your baby shower is going to be a surprise ?

we haven't bought too much yet. I am having a shower but I don't know exactly when yet. it will be a surprise but I think I have a rough idea.

my sister can be a bit tough but I understand why she may want the name as it was our grandmothers name. (Leah) . I just hope she lets me have it. she didn't struggle at all to get pregnant. I think picking a name should not be too stressful ...lets hope she sees it that way too.

are you excited about tomorrow? I cant wait to hear your news!

Would your sister really steal the name you've chosen?!! Oh my. I'd be really mad if someone close to me did that intentionally!

Have you bought everything for baby now and got her nursery all ready? Will you be having a baby shower too?

you will get some energy at some point in the 2nd trimester. I am losing it now but that's ok. it was good while it lasted.

I am relieved my sisters shower is over. it was wonderful but a ton of work!

we haven't decided on middle name yet, mostly because I am still nervous my sister will steal back the 1st name.

I'm glad you are feeling pretty well. I cant wait to hear about Friday's news!

Wow I thought the baby grew gradually pretty much all the through, I didn't realise he/she was saving it till near the end!!

I'm well thanks, I'm getting quite tired now and want to go to bed by about 8pm! I've got my scan this Friday afternoon so counting down the days til then!! ?

At least you don't have too much longer left at work, that must feel so great!! Did you decide in baby's middle name yet? I'm not sure if we're going to have a middle name...if its a boy, we'll have enough trouble finding a first name that we both agree on!!

wow! did you have the scan or is it next Friday? so exciting!

I am pretty tired after work now. I try to sit when I can but it's tough when the kids have questions. we are just reviewing from now until next Tuesday. then the kids only come in for final exams which is nice. they will be in and out in 2 hours or so.

I cant wait to be done.

brace yourself ... I have already gained 29 lbs and the Dr said now is when the baby really starts to grow. I cant believe how big I will be!

I can't wait to waddle!!

I'm feeling well thank you, been getting quite tired lately though so having as many early nights as possible. We decided to go for the scan and it's booked for next Friday! Very excited but very nervous too. They say there's 99% chance that they'll be able to confirm gender, cos they check by 3D and 4D cos its so early.

Not long left at work for you now, you're so lucky! How do you feel after a day if teaching? You must be shattered and I hope you manage to sit down alot now?!

you may be better off waiting. suppose you spend to have the scan and they cant tell...how disappointing that would be. I found out at 20 weeks so you would find out about that time too.

I cant believe how big I am getting. I am starting to waddle!

how are you feeling today?

Yes we both want to find out and are thinking of paying for a scan at 16 weeks to find out, but it'll cost us £80, so we may just save our money and wait another 4/5 weeks for the free scan where we can find out!! Decisions decisions!!

That's lovely that you've got the family cradle, bet its so pretty!!!

Have you got a nice weekend planned?

I am glad you are resting. listen to your body. eat when you're hungry, sleep when you're tired.

do you think you will find out the baby's gender?

we just got my husband's family cradle. it is so pretty! I can't wait to see my little girl in it.

Ha ha ha that's funny, I bet the kids found it very funny?!

Oh I definitely am resting when I'm tired. As soon as I get in from work, that's all I do! I've found my brains not been working that well this week, but that's probably more down to my tiredness rather than 'baby brain'!!

I feel pretty good but I am noticing that I am slower than normal physically and mentally. I find myself getting tired and sore wh3n I run around at work. I also called every boy in my 1st period class Jonathan today.I just couldn't get their names today...so weird!

rest up when you are tired...I know I am.

That's ok! I think I'm going to start saying end of November when people ask when I'm due cos, as you say, it'll probably change again and people have to ask me my due date a few times as it is (think they're in shock!!)! ?

Weirdly I've started to feel more tired, yet I haven't felt any more tired than normal before now! I've been desperate for bed by 8/9pm for the last week or so and felt so tired in the afternoons!

How are you feeling?

my date has changed so many times. I am due either August 26 29 or 30. I think they go on the babies measurements plus remember its always an estimate. the baby will come out when its ready.

I'm sorry I miscalculated. 14 weeks is awesome! are you starting to feel less tired? I started to get a bit of energy at that point. enjoy!

I think it's just me obsessing over numbers cos all my friends look at me blankly when I tell them my number too!!

I'm 14w2d today so its such a relief to be past 12wks! They changed my EDD from 22 November to 18 November, which seems really odd that it can change with IVF, cos we know the exact minute the embryo was implanted!!

I don't remember getting my nt numbers. I should have been more attentive but I only focused on the Dr telling us all was well at each stage.

it sounds like things are going well so far. 2 more weeks until you get to take a nice big breath (12 weeks).

so exciting!

I agree, sounds like a good idea to miss it! Not long left at all for you at work now, so lucky!!

Everything went well with the scan thanks.

My NT measurement was 2.4 (even though the nurse told me 2.7, they wrote 2.4 in my notes and that's the measurement dh says he saw on the screen when she was measuring) so they've sent my routine bloods off. Hopefully they'll come back ok in 2 weeks. What was your NT measurement? So relieved that the scan was ok and it was lovely to see an actual baby! Still doesn't feel real though! Dh nearly passed out over the 'shock' of seeing an actual baby inside me!! ?

I am getting tired at work and of work :). the kids get a bit crazy this time of year because they know they are almost done. I am sad that I will not be going on a field trip with them. they are going to the zoo which is a great trip but it is way too much walking for me. I am too worried the kids will take off from one exhibit to the next and I will instinctively run after them. not a good idea at this point.

let me know how the Dr goes today. :)

Oh wow you're so lucky! When my mum had me (December), they had to finish work at 6 months in those days. So, as a teacher too, she was able to finish work in July because of the school summer holidays!! Lucky!!! So not long left for you at work at all!!! Do you find you're getting quite tired at work now?

I had to walk for about half hour today (longer than I've walked for ages!) and I felt like I had the stomach muscles of an athlete afterwards!! ?

I'm definitely enjoying eating so much and loving my bump too!

your body is telling you to keep eating. I ate constantly for a while there. it was great!

wow your 12 week appointment is almost here. so exciting. :)

as a teacher I only work until the end of June so I will have 2 months to relax before my little girl is here! its so much fun to think about that.

That's OK!

The allergy meds will have been fine. If they were in any doubt at all, they wouldn't have prescribed them. I know what you mean though, I'd bd nervous too! I'm due to stop my progesterone after Friday and I'm a bit nervous about that!

I still feel fine thanks. I still start retching if I don't eat pretty much constantly though. Have always got a packet of mints handy! Had a few retchy moments at a party after a christening yesterday. Also I have a very short fuse lately which doesn't help when I have to nag dh or sit next to a guy at work that I can't stand!!! ???

My scan is on Friday afternoon and I'm trying not to think about my scan, cos I'm so nervous. My first package of maternity wear arrived at the weekend, but I'm not unpacking them just yet as I don't want to tempt fate!!!

Hope you're feeling better now the meds have done their thing?! Have you decided when you're going to finish work yet? Or are you going to try to work until the end?

sorry its been so long. dh swiped my kindle and I just got it back. I was a bit sick all week. I had to take allergy meds just to get through. the nurse practitioner said it was fine but I hated taking it. desperate times call for desperate measures though.

how are you feeling? when is your next appointment?

Oh no, sorry you're not feeling well. Hope that nap helps you to recover quickly though! Maybe it was just tiredness that made you feel that way.

I've weirdly not even been tempted by alcohol at all (never thought I'd hear myself saying that!). I'm really enjoying not drinking and feeling so fresh in the morning, when dh really is not!!

Oh I'll definitely be resting tomorrow, in the garden with a book. Lovely!!

its been pretty warm lately. all you need is a long sleeved shirt and a sweater maybe. it looks warmer than it is.

I am not out enjoying it though. I woke up with a sore throat this morning and am just hoping its allergies not a cold. I just woke up from a long nap which seemed to help.

drinks sound like fun though I know for me a beer sounds super tempting. :)

I am glad you have the day off. rest up and relax.

Thanks for the advice, I'll beat that in mind!

What is weird looking about your belly button? Mine looks like a big black hole now from all the bloating!

Dh and I are out later for my fiends birthday, just some food and a few (non alcoholic for me) cocktails. I'll have to come home in the middle of it to do my pessary though!

Hope you have a nice weekend too. It's a bank holiday on Monday, here in the uk, so a nice long weekend for us. And it's even meant to be sunny tomorrow! Is it warm where you are at this time of year?

I have the crazy dreams too. some freakier than others and always crystal clear. my belly button is getting weirder looking by the day.

I have a glucose test next week where I have to drink a super sugary mixture the Dr gave me and they test my blood. if you have to do the same thing Ivan told the fruit punch is better than the orange drink.

my back is a bit sore still but its a good excuse not to over do it. its a beautiful day here. I hope to get out for a bit. are you doing anything fun?

Oh I hope so!

I'm sleeping like a baby lately. I'm always tired when I wake up, however early I go to bed though! I try to sleep on my side as its not comfy sleeping on my back. I can sense my belly when lying in my side too, which I love! I have really vivid, weird dreams every night though!

it happens faster than you expect! in the moment it feels like time is standing still but when you look back at each week it is flying! how are you sleeping?

Ahh that's a good way of doing it, then you get stuff that you really need/want. I'm not surprised your excited, bet these next 4 months fly by for you!!

I feel like I'm forever waiting for scans lately!! Would love to be at the stage where I can start buying/choosing things!

generally people get you what is on your registry so you get 5 carriages and 1 bottle. it helps control freaks like me stay busy.

5 months has gone so fast! I am getting really excited to meet my little girl. I got more clothes and toys from a friend of mine today. it makes all of this so real in a great way.

I feel like time is going fast for you too!

It does look like a bit of a minefield deciding what to buy! Still very exciting though!

That 5 months has gone so quickly! I'll bet it hasn't for you though!!

So can't you receive any baby gifts without having registered to receive them? We don't have to do that in the UK, so I haven't heard of that before!

my belly button is not quite an outy yet but it is definitely getting more shallow ...its so weird! I am 5 months but I thought I had more time for that.

wow! 10 weeks is awesome! you must be super excited.

we registered for baby gifts and things yesterday. it was pretty fun. its just stressful when deciding which caraway is safest.

I spend alot of the time looking in the mirror at my tummy!! Sometimes I look at it and it just looks bloated then other times it actually looks like a bump. I love it! I'm still waiting for my appt date for my next scan but it should be between 11 and 13 weeks. (If everything is going ok) I'm 10wks2d today so hopefully it'll come soon ?

Doesn't the belly button become an outy towards the end of the 3rd tri?!!

Are you up to anything nice this weekend? Dh and I are going to our friend's birthday party tonight and we have lots of jobs to do round the house today, so I suppose I'd better get started!!

it is amazing! I keep catching glances of myself in the mirror and it freaks me out! (ina good way) I cant believe the way my body is changing. my belly button has gone from an inny to a flat circle.

how are you feeling? when is your next sono?

Ha ha ha! I've had crazy dreams pretty much every night since just after transfer and most of them are really odd! I haven't had any nightmares yet though thankfully!

That sounds amazing being able to feel baby! ?

I think it started around 16 weeks but I wasn't sure what it was until recently. it is the craziest feeling!

I had a nightmare last night about a little girl named Elizabeth so that is out for a middle name. it totally freaked me out.

try to rest up as much as possible. trust me. you will need it.

Thank you! We found out it was his friends middle name yesterday and he was known by his muddle name, rather than his first name. So hopefully dh wouldn't mind using it as a middle name instead.

I would love to be able to feel a baby move inside me! When did you first start to feel anything? I'm thinking around 16wks?

I love Rosie! my sister is using rose as a middle name. I think Christian is a nice name. I feel that making it a middle name is fair. it may feel more special if you can come up with a first name together.

don't worry about feeling good. every pregnancy is different and you may be in for other fun pains later.

I have been feeling the baby more and more. it's fantastic! just you wait...

Ahh that's lovely of him, showing his soft side!

Dh and I went out for dinner last night and we started talking about names. Oddly he said he'd always assumed that, if he had a girl, she'd be called Rose (my favourite name from my list is Rosie!) so that'd be nice and easy if it's a girl. He wants Christian for a boy, after his friend that died when he was younger, but I really don't like the name. I feel really bad because he really wants it but I really don't. I'd be happy with it as a middle name but not a first name. Am I being a bit unfair to him?!

I'm feeling fine thanks, still worried that I'm feeling too good! Got my first midwife appt on Sunday, which feels a bit surreal!

Have you been up to much this weekend?

I like Leah Marie. we will have to think it through. I didn't expect dh to get this excited. he looks at babies and little girls with a different expression now. he constantly talks about what our little girl will be like. it is so sweet.

how are you feeling?

That's a lovely name and a really sweet birthday pressie for dh!

I think Leah May or Leah Marie sound nice but I'm sure you've thought if every single option already! ?

we are planning on using Leah for the 1st name. we need to find a good middle name to go with O'Sullivan.

so far we are considering Nicole for a middle name but I don't feel strongly about it.

dh birthday was today so I got him some "I love daddy " and "daddy's princess" onesies. all pink of course! he loved it!

take good care of yourself. you are taking care of yourself and your baby!

Congratulations!! I would love a girl! Do you have your names picked out yet?!

Oh I'm definitely eating exactly what I want, which is mainly potatoes and croissants and other plain stuff!

It's time to start decorating the pink nursery now!!! ?

so ... its a girl!

I am shocked. I was absolutely convinced I was having a boy. dh is thrilled. all this time he said he secretly hoped for a girl. either way would have been great but its nice to know I should be saying she.

I love jacket potatoes! but mostly I just eat them loaded with sour cream. eat what you crave. usually its because your body wants a certain nutrient.

A toy piano sounds like a very cool pressie! ?

I'm loving cheesy jacket potatoes (without butter) at the minute cos they're nice and dry and seem to be keeping my tummy troubles away! And also loving most desserts! I do snack on cucumber and fruit at work though, so trying to stay balanced! I wish I loved salad!

Good luck today! Let me know how you get on! ?

I think I am having a boy. I don't know why but I don't care either way.

I remember feeling that as long as I kept smacking I wouldn't get nauseous. it does help but I tried to keep the snacks as healthy as possible. I went to a baby shower when I wad about 8 weeks and I just kept getting more and more salad. it tasted amazing! I was comfy all day but a bit nauseous that night.

the birthday party was nice. my nephew loved the toy piano we gave him! I just hope it does not drive my inlaws crazy!

Wow you're in for a lovely but noisy day!!

I feel completely fine now thanks. I was very constipated, then I got the exact opposite problem, but am almost recovered from that now! Had quite a few nausea/retching moments whilst I was unwell, but haven't had any today. That may be because I have barely stopped eating today though!!

That's so exciting that you'll find out if baby is a boy or girl in 2 sleeps time! Are you and dh hoping for a boy/girl? Obviously healthy is all that matters, but I'm hoping for a girl and dh is hopping for a boy!

we have my nephews 1st birthday party today. that should be fun!

Monday is my Dr appointment. I cant wait to see if its a boy or girl! then the decorating fun begins!

how are you feeling? any nausea? more fatigue? any congestion? I have been congested for 20 weeks! I wouldn't change it for the world though.

Thank you! Am definitely breathing a little easier today!

How are you? Have you got much planned for the weekend? Not long to go til your next scan now!! ?

yay! congratulations! I am so happy for you! every Dr visit is a milestone and helps you breathe a little easier. congratulations mommy!

Everything went very well. There is a baby, we saw the heartbeat, it measures exactly the right size and I didn't cry. Yay and phew!!! Am SO relieved its untrue!

Have started to feel really nauseous, so that's reassuring too! And now it's my turn to graduate to my normal doctor! Yay! ?

Thank you! I will do, I'm so nervous! ?

I wanyed to wish you the best of luck tomorrow. I will be thinking of you! let me know as soon as you hear!

Thank you! I'm going through stages of feeling positive and then really negative. Just desperate for Thursday to get here quickly!

Sounds like you had a lovely day today. Love spending time with family, especially the kiddies ?

every pregnancy is different. I haven't thrown up yet. I have had a bit of a sour stomach but that's it. with my pregnancy last year that ended in a mc I was nauseous all the time. try not to stress (I know how hard it is).

we didn't get to work on the scrapbook because my sister in law got home late but we did get to have dinner with my sister and mother in law and my 2 nieces. always fun!

I'm trying so hard not to stress but have been reading too much of google about no morning sickness meaning higher chance of mc so am terrified now!

My friends baby has been having infantile spasms so they've put her on lots of steroids to try to make her better. She hasn't had any more spasms since she started them which is good, but they've got 3 more weeks of them to go yet ?

Sounds like you're having a lovely weekend. Great idea with the scrapbook, what a lovely thing to look back on in years to come!

everything seems quite promising for you. I know its hard but try not to stress. I am sure you will have a good time with your friends baby. is the baby sick or just difficult to manage?

my mom is coming over today and we are going to send out the invitations for my sisters baby shower. it will be nice go get that done. then if I have the energy I will head to my sister in laws house to make a scrapbook of my nephew's first year for his party next week. that should be fun too.

Wow June isn't that far away! Lucky you!

I know they're symptoms but they feel so mild that I would barely notice any difference if I didn't already know I was pregnant. I threw up this morning, but only because I choked on my vitamins, which I always seem to do lately. It's never made me sick before, but I know it was that rather than morning sickness!

I haven't had any spotting thank god. Had some mild cramps but they've been a mild version of af cramps and probably a bit of wind too!

Are you doing anything nice this weekend? I'm going to see my friend tomorrow, cos her baby's been quite poorly and she's having a really rubbish time of it and then to dh's parents for dinner on Sunday.

you have symptoms! all of the lovely and probably strange things you have mentioned count. have you had any spotting?

I finish work at the end of June when the kids are on summer break. the real question oz when will I go back. I am entitled to 6 or 8 weeks depending on how I deliver the baby with pay. after that I can take up 12 weeks without pay or the rest of the year without pay but I have to see what we can afford. I am hoping to take 10 work weeks because that will be the first quarter for the kids so I can start fresh. very exciting but stressful.

It must feel great having a lovely bump and wearing maternity clothes! Have you decided when you'll finish work yet?

I think they'll just scan me next week, as I've never had any blood tears done at the clinic. This time next week will be the day! So nervous/scared still! Still no more symptoms to report. All I have is bloating (some of my clothes don't fit anymore), wind, constant hunger, crazy really vivid dreams most nights and slightly sore boobs when I take my bra off or get up from sitting/laying down. And that's it! ?

you have 1 week to go! I am excited for you! I am feeling bigger each day which is very strange. getting dressed in the morning is a nightmare! just wait...you will see. I wouldn't change it for the world though.

I am assuming you will have an ultrasound when you go next week and they will probably take some blood.

so exciting! !

That's a nice number and not too hectic! I loved the film, its definitely worth a watch...even if its just to stare at the lovely Bradley Cooper!

Hope you have a lovely Easter family day ?

we have 8 adults 2 kids and a baby all together. I don't plan to go too crazy. we are making a spiral ham which is pretty easy. I don't plan to go too crazy.how was the movie? it looks sweet.

Good move ditching the bartending!

Dh and I have just watched Silver Linings Playbook and are going out for dinner with ha couple of his friends tonight. Really looking forward to it and have my 'I'm not drinking' excuse lined up all ready!!

You've got a busy but lovely weekend!! How many people are you hosting? Don't run around too crazy will you! ?

no more bartending for me. its too strenuous. we are hosting Easter so I am running around like crazy right now. how about you?

Thank you! I'm trying very hard to do exactly that!

How are you? Do you have any nice plans for the weekend? Are you still doing your bar work?

sleeping is a good sign! focus on the positive. only worry if you have red spotting cramping and/or lower back pain. I know how hard that is but its good to stay in a positive place.

I'm passing the time as best I can with work, sleeping, spending time with friends and dh and alot of eating!

I'm still really worried that things aren't going well, as I feel so normal and the scan is still taking ages to get here...2 weeks ago tomorrow. Arghhh. ?

I started crocheting a blanket for my sisters future daughter. that is certainly keeping me busy- its a tougher pattern than my first blanket. are you passing the time?

That is flying by! I'm no usually too keen on that time of year as its so cold and depressing, but hopefully it will be the best time of my life from now on! ?

November is my favorite month! I love fall.

my due date is Aug. 30th. I cant believe how fast this is going. I technically am entering my 5th month next week. wild!

hopefully your next few weeks will fly!

That will be a lovely gift for you both! ??

I'm usually tired (not due to pg, its quite normal for me!) so I quite enjoy doing nothing and catching up with the tv I've recorded during the week! I'm out most weekday evenings so its nice to get a rest and do nothing with dh!

What's your due date? I've worked out that mine (if all goes well) will be November 22nd ?

my next appointment is April 15th -right after you. we are finding out the gender which will be a great bday gift for both my husband and me. my birthday is 4/16 and his is 4/17. things are calming down for me. I am not as nervous about having a miscarriage but it is still in the back of my mind.

the time will go faster if you stay busy. I picked up crocheting when I got pregnant. I made a blanket for my brothers new baby and I am starting one for my sister on Saturday. anything you like to do that might keep you busy?

Ah phew! I keep thinking I should be feeling terrible already, so that's reassuring.

My first scan feels like ages way! It's going to be like an extended 2ww!! Aaaggghhh!

Not long now til your 20 week scan! Very exciting!! Did you say you we're going to find out the sex (sorry I'm sure you've told me already)? Is it going quite quickly for you now?! ?

I didn't have any symptoms until about 2-3 weeks after I found out. enjoy your energy while it lasts! I know its hard not to panic about how much you should and shouldn't be feeling but try to relax and take every moment as it comes. when you know everything is going forward you will look back and be surprised at how nervous you were.

God she sounds like a nightmare to work for! Sure you did just great though!

Yes work is definitely helping to give me the much needed distraction! I'm still worried that I haven't had any more symptoms though. Do you remember when you started to feel super tired and sick?

I am so thrilled for you! try to stay positive over the next 3 weeks. it's hard but its better for you and your baby! isn't it weird hearing your baby? I am not used to it yet. I feel pretty good. I had a stressful day at work yesterday as my principal popped in my room for a surprise observation. she is highly critical and there were things out of my control that happened. one kids cell phone went off during the lesson and they aren't supposed to have them in class, my technology didn't work so I couldn't show them the video I found and I was sitting down when she walked in the door which she hares. she knows I am pregnant so hopefully she will give me a pass on sitting (my back was killing me) and the other 2 incidents were out of my control. she is tough on the teachers but hopefully she wont kill me. I meet with her Friday to go over the lesson so needless to say I wont sleep much until then.

does work help to distract you?

Thank you! It was good thank you! I tested positive on official test day too and they've booked me in for a scan on April 11th. If everything is good, they'll then graduate me back to my doctors. They don't do beta tests in the uk so I won't have any idea of anything until April 11th. Still feel completely normal and no extra symptoms. This is going to be a looooong 3 weeks and 1 day!! ?????

How are you?

how was your official Dr appointment? I am eagerly awaiting news...

Thank you! Now that the initial feelings of ridiculous excitement have calmed down, I've been remembering how very early it is and my cautiousness has come right back. As you say, I'll just keep taking one step/day at a time.

I Am So Excited! Yay yay yay!

take one moment at a time.Enjoy them cautiously. but overall Yay! congratulations!

It worked it worked it worked!!! I'M PREGNANT!!!!

Oh my God I'm so happy I can't believe it. Still no symptoms except bloating (which I thought was from the progesterone) but a nice strong line! It came up within seconds!

I can't stop shaking I'm so happy!!!!

I know it's still early days but oh my God I'm pregnant!!!

Oh I hope so, so badly! Am trying to stay realistic but now I just want to get the testing over with!

you are so close now. as tough as it seems you will know one way or another by Tuesday. hey I was convinced the ivf couldn't work the 1 st time tod me and I was wrong. hopefully yours will turn out the same!

That's great news! Another step done for you and still great news!!

If I'm honest, I'm terrified of testing as I'm so convicted that it's going to be negative, it's more a 'delay tactic' than strength!! ?

I've thought about testing a few times in the last couple of days ago but I've got so scared of just seeing one line that I've quickly changed my mind! If I didn't have to go to work on Tuesday, I'd be testing on my otd!!

you are strong. I wanted to wait to test bit a friend of mine talked me into testing early. she had me test every day for 4 days. thankfully they were all the same and positive. Sunday is getting very close! you must be getting excited!

the Dr went well. he said the heartbeat sounded good my weight gain was good and all is well so far. so exciting

I felt so much better having the distraction of work today! I'm defiantly going to hold out til Sunday as, I think if I tested any earlier, I'd be able to kid myself that it was still too early and that there was still hope. Whereas, if its bfn on Sunday, I think I'd be pretty safe to say that's it, as I'm sure the clinics add a couple of days on, just to be safe.

Good luck for your scan today! What a lovely noise that must be after all you've been through ??

I have my 16 week appt tomorrow. I hope to hear the baby's heartbeat again. its a wonderful sound.

work will be good. it will take your mind off things.

you wont be able to not think about being pregnant. it will consume you but hopefully work will take the edge off.

you can probably start positive testing by Friday or Saturday. how exciting!

Thanks! I did exactly that...finished my book and watched lots of tv. I've tested for days now, since Wednesday, so I feel ok to go back to work but to take it easy too.

How was your weekend? Not long til your 20wk scan now!

my Dr didn't say to take it too easy. he basically said behave normally. I did rest up for my own piece of mind. I figured I would always wonder if I overdid it if things went wrong.

you are halfway there now. you will make it. I am so excite for you! curl up with a good book or watch a movie this weekend!

Wow thank you! That would keep me busy!! I've managed to stay away from google so far, so I need to keep that up!!

I'm trying to take it easy for now, as I don't want to do too much just yet. How long did your clinic tell you to rest/take it easy for?

I hope St Patty's day brings me my wish too! I remember feeling really low last St Patty's day, so I'm hoping I'll be feeling exactly the opposite this year!

wow! you had a great cycle! so lets see...what can you do to stay busy?

go to a movie

read a book

take a walk

take a nap

throw yourself into work

dust...yeah right

check out a local artist

dream about baby

visit friends/family

take a yoga/ meditation class

have a game night

go bowling

get a manicure/pedicure

get a massage

clean out your closet

try to stay off of the internet

hopefully testing on st. patty's day will bring you luck!

:)

Yes I had the transfer yesterday! We transferred 1 and managed to freeze the remaining 7 which is brilliant. The embryologist even congratulated me on my quality embryos! Ha ha! I just hope that it does what it's supposed to do now that it's all snuggled in there!

My test day is Tuesday 19th March, but I think we may test on the Sunday before, as I don't really want to test on a work morning. I'd rather have a day at home with dh, regardless of what the outcome is.

I can't stop looking at the pictures they gave me of the embryo and the embryo once it had been put into my womb. Now for what may be the longest 2ww of my life!!

I'm sure you'll completely fine but I would be worrying exactly the same as you. I think it'd be very hard to overdo the yoga and its probably just caused a few completely normal twinges. ?

I know we are off on time from each other. did you have the transfer today? 7 embryos is amazing! remember you only need 1. I am so excited for you!

I am sure I overdid it at yoga and I always hold tension in that area (even pre-pregnancy). I just worry its a bad sign. I will feel better Tuesday when I see the Dr. who am I kidding? I wont stop worrying about this pregnancy until I hold this baby...then I will worry about the baby. ha ha!

I don't think we will find out the sex until 20 weeks. I should hear from my sister next week about the sex of her baby which will keep me busy. I will be crocheting like crazy!

Thank you! We still had 7 embryos looking good, yesterday afternoon, so am hoping that they're still going strong!

I'm sure the back pain is completely normal, whilst your body is still changing and baby is getting bigger. I know what you mean though, is worry about absolutely everything! I wonder I'd they'll be able to tell the sex at your 16wk scan?

wow! congratulations! it sounds like things went really well! with 9 embryos putting back 1 makes sense as you will likely freeze the rest.

we will be finding out the sex at 20 weeks. I am looking forward to my 16 week scan next week. I had some back pain today which makes me nervous so I will feel better if/when the Dr says the baby is ok.

I hope the transfer foes well tomorrow. it is strange to see it happen and weirder still to think dh is not even in the room.

That's ok! They did retrieval on Friday and got 10 eggs (all mature) and 9 of them fertilised with ICSI. We had to do ICSI because dh's morphology count was only 3% on the day. Since egg collection happened quicker than they expected, he had only abstained for 1.5 days instead of the recommended 2-3. All 9 embryos were still looking good and going strong yesterday morning and am now just waiting for the clinic to call to give me a time for transfer, tomorrow. Hope enough of them are still going strong by tomorrow! The clinic have recommended we only put 1 back since we'll be having a day 5 transfer, as apparently we'd be 50% more likely to have twins if it worked. Am so pleased its gone so well so far, I'm just trying to stay realistic, as I know that it still may not work.

I felt slightly bloated but I think that was more down to the few lbs I must have put on from the meds. Other than that and a mild headache on the 1st day after down reg, I didn't have any symptoms at all. Very lucky.

How are you doing? Will you be finding out the sex at your 20 week scan?

I'm so sorry I have been mia. my dh swiped my kindle. how are you feeling? do you feel bloated? are the doing retreival this week?

Wow she must have been analysing you if she's noticed that much about you!! I'm sure she meant to say that you've got that lovely pregnancy glow instead!!

I think we're pretty set ok putting 2 back but I feel we need to talk about it more before deciding once and for all. Sometimes a bit of a struggle getting dh to have a serious conversation about it though!

we put back 2 and only 1 took but that's all you need. I read somewhere that there are benefits to putting back 2. it seems that one helps the other along. not sure of the exact science but its not a bad idea.

I was outed at work today by a woman who works in the cafeteria. when I asked her how she knew she said it was my cheeks and I looked wider. not exactly a compliment but I guess it comes with the territory.

Thank you, I'm so pleased with how things are going, so far. I'm not sure about 3 or 5 day transfer yet, but we're just going to see what happens and go with their advice. Pretty sure we want to put back 2 if we have that many though ?

wow 9 and 7 are awesome numbers! that's great! do you know if they want to do a 3 day or 5 day transfer? I have heard of the benefits of both.

it is okay to get excited. think about it. how often have you had positive news where fertility is concerned? you are entitled to some good news in that area too.

yay! I am very excited for you!

Have just had my scan and everything is looking great. Have 9 follicles on the left and 7 on the right...the majority of which are a great size and nurse said everything is looking great, so I have egg collection booked for Friday. Am just waiting to find out time.

It's getting very hard to stay calm/cool now!

I'm not surprised you've gone crazy with them, after wanting to buy them for so long! I would do exactly the same!! That's great that you've been able to get done nice and cheap clothes though!

I agree...think the worst and hopefully I'll be pleased if the best happens! Have my next scan in a few hours, so I'll let you know how it goes! Excited but nervous!

I have gotten a bit crazy with the maternity clothes. I ordered a bunch of clothes from old navy. they are cheap and pretty inexpensive which is fine because the don't get worn for too long.

it is hard to take one day at a time but the time will fly now.

I was convinced that ivf wouldn't work the first time but I was happily wrong. I was crying when they did the transfer because I was convinced the embryos wouldn't take. its best to go in expecting the worst but hoping for the best.

Hopefully I won't be very far behind you!! I'm trying not to think of anything passed test day as I'm still terrified of it not working. I have to keep telling myself that, even if everything goes well, it still may not work.

I keep having to stop myself doing anything but taking each day as it comes. Think that's gonna get trickier as the days go on! But undo have a busy week this week/weekend so hopefully that'll keep my mind occupied!

Ps - one thing that I'm loving about this, is the 'no symptom spotting'! I'd forgotten what this life is like!!!

Have you bought yourself many maternity clothes now?

13 follicles seems like a lot to me but I had 9 eggs retrieved. I don't know if that's a lot or a little. it sounds like a great start to me.

you are right though, it is all about quality and maturity of the eggs inside.

I think you will be not far behind me! :)

November baby sounds good!

Oh wow that's really lovely of them!!

Had my first scan this morning and everything is looking really good so far, thank goodness. I'm so relieved. They said they might call later to ask me to reduce the meds as they're working a little too well, too quickly.

My lining was 10.5 and I had 6 follicles on my right and 7 on the left, ranging from 3mm to 16mm. Most of them were 11-16mm though. Think they'll want to slow things down a bit, as I'm guessing they'll want big quality follicles rather than big 'young' follicles. So relieved that's over...until Wednesday!! They said they expect egg collection will be early next week (if all keeps going well). ??

I haven't heard anything yet, so maybe I'll just have to carry on with the same dose and see how things are on Wednesday, at my next scan!

I expected to have more follicles for some reason? Or is 13 after being in stims for 6 days about right?!!

my father in law didn't come over but my mother in law was excited! we called "grandpa " and he seemed thrilled. they offered me the cradle they used for my husband and his siblings and they called yesterday and offered to buy the crib too. it's very generous of them. I almost feel bad accepting but I know they really want to help.

let me know how today goes...how many follicles how big etc. I am wishing you the best of luck!

Thank you! I will definitely let you know how they go! Have started to have side effects from the stims now, so hopefully that means they're working. Just alot of trapped wind, a bit of bloating (not enough to worry about though) and mild cramps.

Am doing well at staying away from google, which I think is helping me to stay calm about things, at least for now anyway! Am going to make sure I stay away from google until this is done ?

How did it go telling the 'grandparents to be'?!!

try not to over-google. it can make you crazy! when I first started monitoring I expected to have tons of eggs because some women do. I also expected them to grow super quickly. they may not at first and they will adjust your meds accordingly. don't stress over that. also remember its quality not quantity you want.

let me know how your scans go. :)

Wow that's so exciting for you! A lovely way to tell them too, bet you can't wait to see their faces!!

I'm doing 2 a day, at 6pm...1 Menopur and my down reg. really struggles with my 1st 2 stims injections but I got the hang of it today, so feeling lots better about them now! I keep forgetting that I've got my next scans next week, cos I'm so used to having to wait ages for things, that it feels odd that they're happening so soon. Can't wait to see how ok getting on. Let the emotional rollercoaster and vast amounts of googling begin....!

Thar's great that you are starting Stims! how many injections do you need to do each day?

I am feeling pretty good. weirdly that makes me a bit nervous because I am still nervous about miscarrying. we have my inlaws coming for dinner on Saturday so we will share our big news. we got them a grandparents picture frame. I am pretty excited to share with them.

Glad you're not feeling so sick now! Sounds like you're craving great food!! At least it's not something odd like car tyres!! Someone my mum knows had a carving where she wads desperate to eat car tyres...I don't think she actually acted on it though!!

Had down reg scan and trial transfer today and all went well so they told me to start stims today then have scans booked next Monday, Wednesday and Friday. It's all starting now-very exciting!!

Was nervous about my 1st stims injection, but I just did it and it wasn't as bad as I expected. Was a bit fiddly mixing it, but I just took my time to make sure I did it right and had got all the liquid in the syringe. It made the down reg injection seem so easy in comparison!!

I am much less nauseous and far more ravenous. I cant get enough spicy food! Saturday and Sunday it was Indian and today was Mexican. I am afraid of what I will want tomorrow. :-)

tomorrow I have a friend coming over with some baby stuff she wants to get rid of. I can't wait to check it out.

I am excited to tell people although I have already told a bunch of people. dh on the other hand is dying to tell people. I think he would tell the deli guy if given half a chance.

how was your weekend?

Excellent, so I can blame the ivf instead of all the food I've eaten lately-like it!

Sounds like you've got a busy weekend ahead!! Has your tiredness/nausea started to ease off a little yet? Bet its great being able to tell people too!!

I don't have much planned. a few lunch dates, working at the bar, a bit of school work, and I need to finish the blanket I am crocheting for my sister in law so I can start a blanket for my sister.

I forgot to tell you the whole ivf process causes many people to gain about 5 pounds. a pain, I know but hopefully it pays off in the end. enjoy the weekend!

I am getting bored of the shots but that's only cos I'm itching to get moving!!

Dh is off this weekend so we're having a quiet one. Probably have takeaway tomorrow night then round his mums for dinner Sunday. I need to stop eating so much, I've been such a pig lately!

Bet very careful not to overdo it when you get back to the bar. Have you for much planned for the weekend and your week off, except starting to tell people and bar work?! ?

wow. I am sure you are sick of shots already but you still have s ways to go. trust me its worth it!

I told my boss yesterday and dh and I want to tell his parents this weekend. I am looking forward to telling more people once I feel more comfortable.

I don't have work next week but I will bartend 3 nights for easy crowds. I am actually looking forward to getting behind the bar again.

what do you have going on this weekend? anything fun to get your mind off Tuesday?

Lucky you having work cancelled!! Wow I bet that was amazing to see baby look like baby and moving around, are you starting to tell people now?

My down reg scan is Tuesday and I'm hoping to start stims that same night if all is well. I'm hoping it will be by then, cos ill have been down regging for 21 days (not including my 1st 2 days that I messed up) by then!!!

sorry my life has been a. circus lately. work was canceled Monday because the roads were so bad. I had my 12 week scan yesterday. CRAZY! the baby was moving around a lot and really looks like a baby. we also threw a shower for 2 pregnant girls at work today. so busy!

so where are you in the process? Stims yet?

Hope your drive to work wasn't too bad! Most of the snow here has almost melted to slush now luckily!

Isn't it your 12wks scan next week? Have you decided how you're going to tell people yet? You must be very excited now!!! ?

better safe than sorry where meds are concerned. I enjoyed the snow yesterday but today its just making driving a disaster! I don't look forward to driving to work tomorrow morning. it is supposed to rain all day but I leave at 630 so it will likely be frozen still.

I'm guessing that's a perfect excuse for a weekend resting at home, for you! Dh and I are out with friends tonight and then I'm going to see my friend tomorrow. She lives about 2hrs drive away so I'm hoping the snow doesn't get bad whilst I'm there as its not a very nice journey home! Will be taking my meds with me though, otherwise I'll panic all day about getting stuck somewhere and missing a day!!

yay for af! isn't that a weird thought right now. :)

we have a ton of snow coming. we are supposed to have about a foot or so tonight. we already have 2-3 inches on the ground. I'm totally fine with staying in today and tomorrow.

what do you have on for the weekend?

That's handy...saves you having to spend money on lots of new clothes!

Yes, she did mean that the syringe would be tough to push down, to get all the meds out. Eek! I sometimes find it tough to get 0.5iu out, never mind 300iu! Wonder if its tougher to get it out when injecting into muscle?..sure I read that somewhere.

Ps af arrived this morning. Yay!!!!! Will be calling the clinic to book my down reg scan and pay lots of money for my treatment, as soon as they open!!!!!! ?????

Tgi Friday!!

I luckily have a friend that lost a ton of weight so she is giving me her leftover clothes. I am thrilled to have some jeans pants and dresses to wear for now.

I didn't find the stim meds too tough to do. I am surprised the nurse told you they were tough. maybe she meant the pressure you need to put on the injector to get the mess out but it doesn't hurt so don't worry. keep me posted on af. hopefully she will show soon.

Ooh that must be very exciting to have to move on to maternity clothes!!

Yes I'm a bit of a pro at the injections now. I still weirdly enjoy them too!

Am waiting for af to start so I can book my scan. If it confirms that I'm down regged they'll tell me when to start my stims. Can't wait to move on to the next stage but am a bit nervous about how hard its going to be to push the syringe down with all those meds in (the nurse told us its quite hard, at injection class!). I'm hoping that af gets here any day but I don't feel like she'll be here for the next couple of days, unless she surprises me. Oh please let her surprise me! ???

Bet you can't wait for your 2 weeks off. Are you doing anything nice in those 2 weeks...or are you just making the most of the rest?!!!

I actually couldn't button A pair of pants that used to be roomy yesterday. back to leggings and dresses.

how are the shots going? are you a pro yet? when do you switch from down reg to stims?

I am losing my patience at work more often. I am not sure if its the hormones or if its that the kids are checked out. we have a break coming in 2 weeks and they seem to wait to write things down after someone else has already written it. they aren't trying to solve any problems for themselves. soooo frustrating!

Oh I hope it does go quickly and of course I hope it works! That just be so great to be able to wear maternity clothes!! I daren't even look at them in shops/online as I don't want to tempt fate!!

All our snow has gone now and it's starting to get dark later and is lighter in the mornings, so hopefully that means spring is going to be here soon!

wow! if af comes this week retreival should be in about 2 weeks. its going to go so fast now!

we finally have snow here but just an inch or 2. its pretty.

I am definitely feeling pregnant. I have some congestion at night and my clothes are pretty tight. I broke down and grabbed my maternity clothes from my friend. I may start wearing 1-2 things this week. its so surreal!

That's great that you've been able to see baby again, and that you feel more relaxed! And only 2 weeks til you feel even more relaxed, brilliant! Yes, as you say, I'll hopefully be at monitoring stage (if all goes well) in 2 weeks. A milestone for us both!! ?

I messed up my 1st 2 down reg injections, like an idiot (I read the measurements on the syringe wrong and only injected a 10th of what I should've done). I got very angry with myself then called the clinic (twice to make sure I got the same answer off 2 different people!!!). Luckily they said that, cos I'd only messed up the first 2 days it will have made no difference, as long as I'm doing it right now! Was so relieved. It's silly really cos the worst that could've happened is I'd have had to wait another month but I got myself in a right state! I'm definitely doing them properly now though thank god!

Just waiting for af to show now, then I can book my scan (and pay for the ivf!!! ?????) to confirm that I'm down reg'd. I'm hoping af holds out till Wednesday, so that I've had a decent amount of time on the down reg meds!

I absolutely get what you're saying about the shots. once you do one you want to do a bunch so you stay comfortable with it.

sorry I was mia this week. work was a bit crazy and I was falling asleep super early each night.

I had my 10 week sono yesterday . the baby looks like a Teddy bear. so cute! 2 more weeks and I am in a more relaxing place! weird because 2 more weeks for you and you will be at the monitoring phase (I think). pretty neat!

I did my first injection! Yay!!!

Am so proud of myself!! It was far easier than I expected and actually felt a little sick with relief afterwards!! I watched it go in too, which i didn't mean to do!

Am even looking forward to doing tomorrows one! Odd person!!! ?

the gym actually sounds good right now. I don't have the energy to do anything extra.

weekend was good. I had another baby shower to go to which gave me lots of ideas for my sister's shower.

its very funny this whole pregnant thing. I ate like a champ Saturday at the shower but could barely eat on sunday. just you wait and see.

Oh good I'm glad it's not just me, thought it was my 'heart of stone' going into overdrive!

I'm excited to get started too. I'll let you know how injection No.1 goes! Will be glad to get it done!!

How has your weekend been? Dh and I are going round his mums for lunch soon. Lucky I went to the gym yesterday! I ache ALOT today though cos I haven't been for weeks!

I completely understand what you mean about being emotionallydetached. I felt very clinical up until transfer day. that's when I thought my eggs were too poor to work (thank goodness I was wrong) I couldn't stop crying.

everything moves quickly now. I'm very excited for you!

Glad you've calmed down a bit and managed to get the dad to see the sense, I bet its usually the mums that blame everyone else but themselves. Poor kid is gonna end up a right little madam when she's older, with parents like that!

Only 2 more sleeps to go! I realised last night that I haven't ever thought about anything past test day...and my only thought about test day is literally "that's when I'll take the test". It feels completely like 'a process' and 'just something I've gotta do' so far. I've stayed completely emotionally detached so far, which I'm sure won't last once the monitoring starts but its helped me to stay calm so far. Does that sound odd?!! I find its the only way I can deal with things sometimes...to keep a barrier up.

It's only -1degree here so I'll bet its far colder where you are? I hate the cold and can't wait for the summer!

it has been well below freezing here (yuck!) it snowed about an inch last night but its not very pretty. I wouldn't mind if it was pretty.

ive calmed down a bit. I spoke to the girls father and let him know exactly how his daughter has been slacking off this week. he is still a jerk but seems to get that as a parent he has to take part in raising his child too.

you are getting close to shot 1. I know I keep saying it but that's the hardest one simply because of the anticipation. they really are pretty easy.