The doctors should be happy - I’ve reached 34 weeks - this was their first goal when they discharged me last Saturday! Now 37 weeks is their next goal.

I see no problems in this. Looking in hindsight, I guess I really did start having major contractions. Once at the hospital and being monitored, I thought I could tell that each contraction brought a new surge of pain to the kidney stone - irritating my back and lower stomach.

Sure, this week has been exhausting, but I am happy to report that we survived our first day without too much trouble. I did get a jump start, with one of the little ones not making it to the potty in time… But for most of the morning, they played and played so great with one another. It was nice finally having another ‘normal’ day - settling back into our regular life.

The Lord must’ve had people praying like crazy for me, since I started the morning in tears at my early awakening and potty incident - for the day made a complete turn around. (Until I was crazy enough to think since they were so good that I would give them a little chocolate dessert someone had brought over earlier in the week. Mental note - DON’T ever do that just before naptime!!)

Two loads of laundry got done - though I had help getting them in/ out. The dishwasher got turned on (DH unloaded it). I got the boys’ room picked up 90% of the way. We made some homemade granola bars tonight (anyone have a good recipe - this one was just okay).

Overall, this is a LOT for me at this point. I’m still being careful to pay attention to signals of when to stop. Contractions restart with too much up/ down action, or standing too long - and I don’t intend to have to take the meds anymore.

I can read myself like a book now, and really don’t see any reason for the preterm stuff to matter anymore. The main concern last week was the kidney stone/ swollen bladder/ raised white blood cell count starting the preterm labor.

Today I began feeling the ‘nesting’ urge resume once more - as it had a week or two ago. My plan is to begin writing down exactly what all needs to be done in the next 6 weeks, and tackle at least 1 or 2 things each day.

Re-stock the upright freezer with snacks - breads, cookies, muffins, waffles, etc… The only meal that I can freeze well is lasagna, but I don’t want to do too much of this since I’ve learned the dairy is a major trigger for reflux in my babies. I try to limit dairy to once every other day.

What’s going on with the baby? The meds are getting out of my system, so the baby is finally starting to move again. I was worried Sunday/ Monday, since it was hardly moving at all. This is still a calmer baby than my others, I don’t feel it that much. With my first, my entire tummy would jiggle all the time, but that’s only happened maybe twice with this one.

I’ve lost about 8 lbs. since leaving the hospital - down from where I was before. I think part of this is due to not being able to eat for 2 days with the stone.

I’ve finally reached the point where I can’t wear even my running pants without them flipping under my belly (they have an elastic waist).

Last night was the first time I’ve ‘thought’ I could hear the baby’s heartbeat on our monitor.

I’ve prepared boy and girl clothes, washing them in Free and Clear ALL, with a double rinse. I’m about ready to make a wish list/ registry on some cloth diapering sites - since this will be our main need.

I’m trying to get all the cuddle time in that I can with my other children, especially the ‘baby’. He didn’t have anything to do with me once I came home last weekend, so I’ve really soaked up all the kisses, hugs, and cuddles he’s offered me the past few days!

It’s 10 PM, and I need to wind down. Thank you all once again for prayers and emails you have sent my way - the Lord has blessed us greatly!! There are times when you feel all alone, like no one cares, but the outpouring of love and concern - even from complete strangers - has been the most incredible thing to me.

Thank you all, and now on to the next 6 weeks!!

“Little Mommy”

Have questions or comments you’d like to share directly with me? Write me at: Candace @ HeavenInOurHomes.com.

DH already thinks I’m crazy in some regards to the birth plan (but will only say no comment if you ask).

For years, I’ve ‘mentioned’ how much I’d really like to have an at home birth. Over the past 10 years, the medical community has made too many errors in my own life - so why would I trust them with my precious new baby?

I didn’t realize until my last baby (#3), that they had been giving me Pictocin AFTER the baby was born! This can be a very controversial medicine - between midwifes and doctors - and the ‘medical’ community claims it is wonderful, of course.

What they told me was this drug, which causes contractions, stops the new mother from bleeding to death. Okay, while I can see that some women might bleed more than others, potentially causing life threatening situations - I have to disagree that it’s needed for every single woman.

They pretty much were trying to give me the impression that I would bleed to death if I didn’t have it - how you bleed more each pregnancy/ birth. I had it in my Birth Plan to not have it, but since we ended up being induced for medical reasons, I had it anyway.

Well, I’ve been slow getting a Birth Plan written up this time, mainly because I don’t think too highly of the hospital and staff where I’ll more than likely have this baby. (Mainly because it’s the closest, most convenient hospital.) Either they won’t read it, or act like I’m so stupid and they are experts.

But after my hospital experience last week, where I still honestly believe I would’ve died within an hour or two had they mag not been turned off - I am determined to have this written up before my next visit on Monday.

My main points being -

*No drug intervention until “I” am begging for it - this way it is MY decision. I will allow them to insert an IV, in case they need it for quick emergencies, but I do not want anything hooked up to it.

They have taken too many liberties during this and past pregnancies, trying to give me meds without consulting me, or even warning me of dangers/ warning signs. Two different times I have been prescribed meds (with no consultation of dangers) for Category C medicines. This means that these are drugs NOT tested on pregnant women, due to dangers.

Not once did the doctor mention this - the last time this past weekend! (The pain meds they prescribed once I came home) Thankfully, the Lord has me alert enough to drs. now that I called the pharmacist before we picked it up.

Basically, they told me it was a risk vs. benefit drug for pregnant women. So here I had a dr. weighing the risk vs. benefit for me, without giving me the option to decide if the risk was worth it to me, or if I could bear the pain. I opted to stick with Tylenol and bear the rest of the pain.

And as for the IV, after finding out that they had drugged me with Pictocin after previous births without consulting me - I’m concerned what other things they might stick in there without my knowledge. I know what my body can handle, and if I need something medicine wise, I’ll ask for it. I cannot allow them to make these decisions for me without even telling me.

*I want to have my child immediately! With our first, they drug out the whole ‘after birth’ process for probably at least 30 minutes. My baby, that I had waited for my whole life, was on the other side of the room being weighed, measured, foot/ hand prints, etc…. while I couldn’t even hold and kiss him!

With my 2nd, I had a great nurse that made sure I got DD right away. She cleaned her off while she was in my arms. My 3rd was the same way, except they got panicked about his temp and placed him in a warmer for an hour almost. But had they let me hold him skin to skin, I don’t believe this would’ve happened.

So, this time, this baby is to come straight to me. I found out last time that they ARE able to do the APGAR test while I’m holding the baby - and everything else can wait. This baby will be skin to skin with me, covered with blankets, for as long as I want. (Unless, of course, there is something that needs immediate medical attention)

*Another thing I’m commited to is NOT having my water broken. There are 2 main reasons for this. The first being that once your water is broken, the baby HAS to be born within 24 hours. So, if the labor doesn’t progress, you have no choice but to have a C-section.

The 2nd reason is for me - it’s much less painful if your water is intact. I couldn’t believe the difference - but my 2nd was the only one that my water was intact until she was coming out. I didn’t even get an epi with her - though I did want on. It wasn’t near as painful though even without the epi, since the water cushioned the contractions somewhat.

With my last, even the Pictocin was manageable, but once they broke my water (around 6 cm), I couldn’t take it anymore. I was asking for the epi after probably 2 or 3 contractions - having only 6 total that I felt died through before the epi. I really think I could’ve made it much further without having to have the epi, if I had only told the dr. she couldn’t break my water.

I was a wimp though - I was tired and hungry, and wanted it over quick. I did have to pay a high price for the epi that time though - I couldn’t feel my legs for 6 hours! It was scary, thinking that I might become one of the stats where women get paralyzed from it. (The needle goes into your spine area)

Okay - these beiny my main points for doctors…. until today. I was reading another pregnant friend’s blog, and she shared this link. I agree with her that some of the info is a little much, but overall - I found this to be a very interesting read.

It’s in 4 parts, but I highly recommend reading it - just to be able to think about things from a different (non-medical) perspective. It’s changed many things in my mind already. I laughed as I told DH about reading it.

We might as well not go to the hospital anymore, they are either going to be so mad at me, or be so confused that they won’t know what to do - ha!! But I truly believe taking some of these tips, and putting them in place, will not only calm me, but help me make it through without meds.

Pretty much, they will only be there to catch the baby at this point, and help if that is needed. I want this to be the same as an at home birth, only having the safety net of the hospital in case of emergency.

Let me know what you think! Birth Without Violence

“Little Mommy”

Well, tomorrow (Thursday) marks one week from our ‘exciting’ adventure, and I’ll admit - I’m chicken! Why? Because tomorrow will be the FIRST day I will be 100% alone with the kids since last week’s action.

DH took off Monday, since I was still cramping/ contracting some, as well as having chills and sweats. I’m so glad he did, I think I took 2 or 3 little naps that day!

Tuesday, we were blessed to have one of the young girls from church come over from 8 to 1. I wasn’t sure how much I really needed her, UNTIL Tuesday had begun! Simply making a double batch of made from scratch whole wheat pancakes and scrambled eggs had me down for quite a while.

I resorted to opening the meds the doc gave me for contractions, then laid down for about an hour. I felt MUCH better after this, though still tired. Over the past few weeks, I had already made Quiet Time mandatory - even for our 4 year old that hasn’t really napped in years.

He did lay down, but didn’t sleep with the others. I let him play some games on the computer while I took my 2nd nap of the day. That afternoon brought over my aunt and grandparents with our dinner meal. DH was so grateful for this - giving him a break from fixing all the meals over the past days.

Today, my mom came over. Once again, I thought ‘more highly of myself than I ought to think’, and was quickly brought to reality. She arrived around 9 or 9:30, by which time I was already beat! I napped a little while on the couch, got a load of laundry turned on, and a shower.

Even before lunch, I could hardly hold my eyes open once again. BOY - this medicine must’ve been really bad, I can’t stay awake! After lunch, I headed back to bed, napping for an hour or so. Once she left, the little ones laid down - all sleeping except the baby. I’m not sure if it’s just his pointy bottom tooth cutting through, or if it’s more - but he’s not sleeping well.

I know he was held a lot by my dad while they kept them during our hospital stay (3 days total). So really, we’re not sure how much of it is teething, and how much is being used to being held so much. He’ll sleep in our arms, but wakes up screaming as soon as we lay him down.

He ended up having to cry from the point of my getting him to sleep and laid down the first time - I just can’t keep picking him up out of the crib and rocking him anymore. Even though I kinda want to, he’s too heavy and the dr. did tell me NO!

There was about 1.5 hours before DH got home, and that was long. I KNOW - I’m such a baby now! Thankfully, we had another family bless us with dinner - so I was able to avoid the extra time on my feet. Plus we had something healthy vs. a quick fix I would’ve had to fix (frozen meal from the store). We were even treated to homemade cookies - YUMMM!!!!

My arrangements for tomorrow got a little mixed up - so as I just found out, I’m ALL ALONE tomorrow! My main concern is how tired I’ve been getting still. The times that I’ve tried to just force myself to keep going have resulted in cramping and contractions. So while it might appear that I’m just lazy, taking naps all the time, I really am taking precautions to keep this little one inside a little longer too!

I do have another young girl coming Friday for a few hours, and am beginning to think that maybe this will be working out for the best. I’ll have one day to jump back in, and then help on Friday since I know I’ll be EXHAUSTED!

One thought that did hit me earlier, as I was telling DH how I’m not looking forward to being by myself tomorrow - is that tomorrow probably won’t be near as hard/ bad as my first day that I’ll be alone with 4 children!! (Once the baby is born)

Til next time,

“Chicken” Little Mommy

I’ve had many questions about cloth diapers, and have come across someone with some answers! I made a list, and Michelle, from Snooty Booty Diapers, LLC has been gracious enough to take the time to answer them!

Hope this info helps some of you too! Let’s get started:

*What’s really so bad about disposables? They are much more convenient, no washing, just throw it away!
This is a hard question to answer, as so many studies draw different conclusions on whether cloth diapers or disposable diaper are better! For those who choose cloth diapers, they feel that the convenience of disposable diapers comes with a greater environmental cost. They are not comfortable with the waste that disposables create. Others dislike the many chemicals used in the diapers. They prefer more natural fabrics against their baby’s skin. Others choose cloth for economic reasons. While they require more money up-front, quality cloth diapers can be used on multiple children and will save money over time.

*How are you supposed to kill germs? It seems gross putting tee tee and poo poo in your washer.

There are several natural ways to help kill germs and keep your diapers fresh! Some people use tea tree oil in their wash. Others use vinegar. Vinegar can also be used as a natural fabric softener.

*Since hot water and the dryer is bad for PUL covers, are AIO’s not the best route?

There is a lot of debate about putting PUL in the dryer. PUL is made to withstand high temperatures. Many people believe that putting PUL in the dryer occasionally will help to reseal the PUL and keep it waterproof. I have several PUL wetbags that go in the wash and dryer a few times a week. Although a couple of years old, the PUL still looks great and is still waterproof. Quality PUL should give you few problems in the dryer. It’s still best to use low heat in the dryer, however, to preserve diaper elastic. I’ve seen more problems from elastic than with PUL.

*I’ve seen so many options as far as diapers go, what are all of the options and what do they do?

There are many kinds of diapers, and to describe them all would be a post of its own! Here’s a VERY quick rundown:

Prefolds: These are the diapers you may have seen in Babies R Us or other retailer. They are rectangles that appear trifolded. You fold them around the baby, fasten them with a pin or Snappi, and add a waterproof cover so they don’t leak.

Fitteds: Like prefolds, these diapers also need a cover. Many fitteds are made of natural fibers. Fitteds look like other kinds of diapers (all-in-ones, pockets), but are not waterproof.

All-in-ones: This is the kind of diaper that many parents who want something “like a disposable” choose at first. True to their name, all-in-ones (AIOs) are one piece and easy to put on. They come with snap or aplix closures. They are waterproof and do not need covers.

Pockets: Like AIOs, pockets are waterproof. They often have stay-dry inners to keep your baby dry. Instead of one piece, pockets have a pocket opening at the front or back of the diaper. You put an insert into this opening. Inserts can be made of hemp, microfiber, bamboo and more. The closures are identical to AIOs and just as easy to use.

Covers: Covers are what go over fitteds and prefolds to make them waterproof.

*Do I need a wet bag, or can I just use a large plastic grocery sack?

A wet bag is not essential, but it is great to have. Many people use vinyl pillowcase covers and nylon bags. The great thing about wet bags and pail liners is that they are specifically designed to be waterproof bags, rather than other items you may improvise with. Grocery bags are fine in a pinch, but you’ll probably want something a little more durable for your diaper bag. You’ll also appreciate a secure zipper to contain messes and odors while you’re out. They also make great beach and pool bags for storing wet bathing suits!

*How do I keep soiled diapers until time to wash?

A great way to keep soiled diapers is in a wet bag or diaper pail with a pail liner. To help keep the bags fresh, many people sprinkle baking powder in the bottom of the bag. There are also scented pail powders you can try. Some bags come with a place to put essential oil cloths as another way to keep bags fresh.

*What materials are best to look for? Fleece, hemp, cotton, sherpa, microfibers?

Once you decide what you want in a diaper, you’ll be able to select diapers made from those fabrics. For some, all-natural fabrics are important. Those people will choose fibers like hemp, cotton, sherpa, bamboo and wool. Bamboo and hemp are both thirsty fabrics that don’t create a lot of bulk. Fabrics like microfleece are great for a stay-dry diapers. Microfiber absorbs liquids quickly. Most people use diapers made from a variety of fabrics, but ultimately you’ll go with what works best with your baby’s skin.

*Why can I not use bleach on my diapers?

Bleach is a harsh cleaner that should not be used regularly on diapers. You’ll find that many people admit to using bleach occasionally, and some diaper manufacturers even recommend it (although sparingly). There may come a time when you’ll feel a need to bleach your diapers. Inserts and prefolds will take bleach best. If using it on PUL or diapers with elastic, try to use the smallest amount possible.

It’s best to always try and follow the manufacturer’s washing instructions. Regular use of bleach may degrade the diaper fabrics and elastics. If using bleach, run your diapers through extra rinses to ensure all bleach residue is gone. You don’t want to irritate your baby’s bottom!

WOW - Thanks Michelle! I met Michelle through a great group of moms on Mom Pack, and look forward to visting her site often! Besides her online site - http://www.SnootyBootyDiapers.com, she writes extremely helpful info on her blog - http://snootybootydiapers.blogspot.com/.

When visiting, please mention Nine Months or Less, and thank her for her helpful information!!

“Little Mommy”

All I’ve heard for years is how American’s don’t get enough calcium in our diets, but apparently that’s not true!

Over the past few days, I’ve become an expert at yet another topic - kidney stones! Praise the Lord, He allowed my one big stone and about 15 to 20 coffee ground size flakes pass over the course of 4 hours this afternoon!!

I had hoped since I had gotten some relief at the hospital, that it might’ve passed there, but when I was woke up around 1:30 to sweats, turned chills, turned cramps, etc… it wasn’t looking too good.

DH had gone out last night to get me some Tylenol - since the dr. on call wasn’t wanting to call me in anything for pain and suggested 2 extra strength every 6 hours. It did help pretty well, but needed more at 3 AM. I guess I was awake for only another 30 minutes, then sweet sleep for 4 1/2 hours - the most I’ve had in FOREVER!!

I laid around most of the morning, feeling nauseous and cramping if I moved the wrong way. It seemed strange that if I could find that ‘one’ position, and not move, it was bearable. I wasn’t going to argue, I just got there and tried to stay there - in between LOTS of water and potty breaks.

Around 11, I was convicted about how I’ve asked others to pray, and subconsciously known God was in control - but yet had NOT stopped and prayed out loud over this. So, I did - I gave the Lord my kidneys, my body - and asked Him to heal me. Then I fell asleep. I woke up to a major contraction, and laid still for a while - wanting to time any following ones.

When I got up to go potty (again), I couldn’t believe my eyes, but THERE was my ‘baby’ (ha ha) and lots of tiny little babies. It didn’t even hurt coming out - I hadn’t felt a thing! Maybe it’s just the process of coming out that hurts, and not actually the ‘moment’ itself?

Anyway, DH thinks the thing is huge - it’s about 2 mm thick by 5 mm long. I was surprised that even the little ’sugar crystal’ or ‘coffee ground’ size ones made my bladder feel as inflammed as they did for the next 4 hours. Inflammed, but nothing near impossible to handle!

So, in my research online (to see if this was indeed the stone), I came across pics plus info on calcium. In my mind, stones were from caffeine and greasy foods. But most info today says dehydration and calcium buildup. Other trigger foods that hit me hard - sweet potatoes, spinach, strawberries, then of course - milk and cheese.

My diet last week? Craving strawberry/ various fruits slushies CONSTANTLY, sweet potatoes the night before the attack, and a preg. craving for milkshakes - so 2 milkshakes from Arby’s. Then take out my morning glass of water that I had started trading for my OJ cravings.

Between being dehydrated and eating all these - no wonder! Oh yeah, another MAJOR note that most probably never consider - prenatals. Then name of mine? Cal-Nate. (Cal - calcium….) uh huh…

Prenatals have extra calcium, at least many do. But how often do drs. ever check blood levels in pregnant women? I was shocked upon my research how COMMON it is for pregnant women to get kidney stones!

But it’s really no wonder, we up our milk/ cheese intake generally, add prenatals, I wouldn’t have ever thought of sweet potatoes/ strawberries/ and spinach being harmful!!

I believe another thing I read online today said that stones are also more likely when a person if Vitamin A and D deficient. My prenatal clearly states it has no Vitamin A. This is all very strange and intriguing to me… and my confidence in the medical world lowered yet again.

My advice to pregnant moms - avoid prenatals w/ extra calcium unless you know you need it - and then ask drs. to keep tabs by doing regular bloodwork. Drink more water than you can imagine! I knew I was getting dehydrated somewhat, but didn’t go above and beyond to drink more water.

If you can see color when you potty - you aren’t drinking enough! Everything should be clear.

And for all the stories comparing to labor - it’s hard to say. Labor is shorter, but the pain isn’t just on one side - it’s both. I think the pain gets more intense in labor too… but it’s hard to say now that it’s over, I might’ve thought differently while having the attack on Thursday.

I just didn’t know what was going on, and was afraid my stomach was about to explode. I was pretty sure it wasn’t the baby, but didn’t know what was so wrong.

For anyone wondering - symptoms - twinging back pain, back spasms, front lower abdominal pain, nasuea, vomiting, uncontrollable shaking - at least these were mine. If you have any combination of these, don’t debate for an hour like I did - just get to the hospital and get some meds!

Thank you all for prayers and concerns! I’m still tired and sore, contracting some, but we’re going to be okay. I’ve got more praying to do now about the baby - that the mag overdose would’ve have hurt anything there. Other than that, I feel at peace with everything else over these past few days.

I have some more ladies wanting to share with us, and so we’ll pick back up on regular posts in a couple of days. Just another day or two of recouping!

“Little Mommy”

Here’s a post for all of our friends and family, as well as Heaven In Our Homes, Sonbeams, and NMoL readers….. Sorry, I’m beat and this is the easiest way to inform everyone of what it going on.

Well, so much for smooth sailing during this pregnancy. I usually hit a snag around 32 weeks, and thought I’d cleared it this time. “THOUGHT”

32 weeks, 6 days (Thursday) - we’re enjoying a breakfast of homemade pancakes and begin playing in the floor. I had a little bit of stuff to fix on the computer, so after playing in the floor with the little ones, I took care of that.

I felt a little tightness in my back, no big worries.. I figured I just twisted the wrong way in the recliner while typing. The nagging pain just wouldn’t go away, so I stuck a movie in for the kids to watch while I laid down. (I hadn’t slept well the night before).

From there the pain got worse, so I called DH just to let him know I was hurting, and am some point in the day I might call the dr. and need him to come home. From there it just went downhill quick. I couldn’t walk, couldn’t sit, couldn’t lie down - I just sat in the bathroom floor, crying, turned on the speaker phone, and began trying to find someone to help! Yep, I couldn’t even hold the phone up!

DD came in at one point and began stroking my hair before rejoining her brothers. After watching one show, she was ready to get up, despite my insistence that it was okay to watch another movie. “But’s it’s too much tv”, she said.

Long story short, I ended up having to call 911. My mom was working and I couldn’t get her, DH would take an hour to get home from B’ham…. The EMT’s waited until my mom got over to stay with the kids, then they took me to the hosptial. Either we weren’t going very fast, or the Jeep that rode our bumper that whole time was flying!

I can laugh about the whole EMT part now. I had to crawl to the door to unlock it (we haven’t taught the kids that one yet…), so was just sitting in the floor there when they got here. He looked at me all weird - asking what’s wrong, was I okay? HA!! Now I wouldn’t have called them if I was okay, would I??

He pushed my tummy a little and asked if it hurt, then started poking my back asking the same. Kinda reminded me about how oldest son might do a medial exam on me.

Yeah, my stomach hurt, but just on the left side, so I didn’t ‘think’ it was contractions - at least not like any I’d had before.

On my back, it hurt, but not where he was pushing. Once I showed him, oh yeah, it hurt. Then I had to figure out if it hurt when he pushed in, or when he released. COME ON!! I’m dying here…. He didn’t say much, just that they had to get me to the hospital.

I’m still not sure if he knew what he was doing, but he got me there, so that was good. Then the two EMT’s began aruging if I should be taken to the ER or L&D - no kidding. Finally, the one for the ER over-steered the other one and we went that way. They pointed us straight to L & D.

The EMT’s waited until my mom got over to stay with the kids, then they took me to the hosptial. Either we weren’t going very fast, or the Jeep that rode our bumper that whole time was flying!

Okay, back to the hospital - It’s kinda all one big blur from there. I know I kept begging for pain meds, but they wouldn’t give me anything until they checked on baby. Then they had to ask me all of these crazy off the wall questions they ask BEFORE doing anything on me!

Who cares what my highest education level was - my stomach killing me! (Sorry, I wasn’t taking the pain well…) It probably was at least 30 min. to an hour before the dr. came in and things slowly started taking place - though it was still hours before I had any bit of relief.

DH is still upset they didn’t take me to the ER, since L&D HAS to go though all the baby protocal - even though it wasn’t labor at that point. The dr. finally came over and ordered an ultrasound and meds.

The ultrasound showed that my left kidney was swollen, but that’s all they could tell. The OB kept saying he thought it was a kidney stone, but there was no blood in my urine, and it wasn’t on the ultrasound. There was by blood Thursday night, but then the pain was gone (or masked under the meds).

Well, all this prompted preterm labor, so I also had to be put on mag. That first night was going good, they had contractions down to once every 30 minutes or so. Around 3 AM, they picked back up to 3 to 8 minutes apart, so they up-ed? the mag.

I was pretty much completely (literally) paralyzed all day on Friday. DH was having to give me drops of water in a straw - I couldn’t even hardly drink or swallow without gagging. They finally checked my levels, and I was above the levels they treat at. So, they pulled off the mag. (BTW - I was still contracting while on the mag).

It took about 6 hours to finally be able to feel my teeth to chew, and regain normal sight. I had probably 5 or 6 husbands sitting next to me for a long time. (Major double vision!!)

Sat. AM - they pull out the catheter and IV’s. After lunch, they monitor me once more and release me. So, we’re back home, but still really not sure what all has gone on.

I’m a little concerned about the baby. If the mag was to the point of paralzying me, what does it do to a tiny little one? It’s heartrate did get about 20 beats slower yesterday, but seemed to be doing better today.

I’m so VERY tender in my back, having spasms a lot. We never saw a stone on the ultrasound, and despite my asking a million times, they never followed through with the 2nd ultrasound they were going to do.

My white blood cell count was up on Thursday, not sure about yesterday - they never said. I also don’t know how much more I dilated than from Friday. They were concerned about checking again, since that might retrigger the contractions.

So, we know that I’m atleast at the 1.5 cm mark, the baby was at -3 position (which they said it could go back up to floating), and I was 25% effaced. Not quite as much as I have been in previous pregnancies.

We know little about the next 7 weeks. No lifting - uh huh, how’s that possible with 3 little ones?? Lots of water - they said I was severly dehydrated when I got there. How do that know that? I had been trying to up my water…. I did definitely get a plumper face and swollen feet from all the fluids they gave.

I still am having back pain, but apparently will have to deal with it. They said there’s little to be done while pregnant. I’m just supposed to go back if/ when it happens again. So PLEASE pray that if this was a kidney stone - it’s either already passed or just disappears!

Thankfully, I didn’t get sick until I was at the hospital, so the little ones knew little about what was going on. I know now to get a bag packed (once I get some strength back), and keep some phone numbers close by. Have you ever tried to hunt down a phone book and call someone with a kidney stone?? It’s not easy! (Oh yeah, add pregnant to that!)

From reading online, calcium is a big trigger - plus the spinach salads, and strawberry fruit mix I found myself eating constantly this past week!

Please pray for wisdom as far as what is healthy to eat but won’t trigger another stone, that the stone is gone or won’t bother me anymore, and that someone the Lord would provide all we need in the next 7 weeks.

I could ‘almost’ laugh about it today - wouldn’t it be bad to go into labor and a kidney stone attack at the same time!! After all the pain from Thursday, I’m denifitely rethinking the whole ‘no pain meds’ during labor.

Honestly, my labor without an epi was better than my first with - because my water wasn’t broken until she was born vs. at the beginning of induction. Please, please first time moms - unless it’s an emergency, do NOT let them give you Pictocin or break your water. You will be in SO much pain - and it’s simply not as bad when it’s natural.

Of course, here I am saying I can’t do it already. Birthing one baby is enough, without it having to be two (the male baby - kidney stones). And my two cents on that…. It’s very similar to natural labor - it just isn’t over near as fast. Although, I wasn’t throwing up in labor….

Anyway, I’m tired, am VERY sore, still contracting - so am on meds as needed for those. The dr. this morning said her first goal was to get me to 34 weeks (next Friday). From there, 37 weeks. The baby had steriods on Thursday and Friday afternoons to get it’s lungs ready.

It sure was hard being there, looking at that empty baby bed in the room from the NICU - I am SO ready to hold this baby. Hopefully, we can make it till they consider it full term (37 weeks), and have no problems.

Oh, one last request - for anyone that knows us personally… IF you know of any young girl that would be willing to offer some extra hands, we would be more grateful than could be imagined. Just being home for a little while (the kids aren’t back from my parents yet), I’m already exhausted, cramping, and contracting.

We have a bed, and could offer a small pay.

“Little Mommy”

Hello to all the wonderful ladies joining us this week from 5 Minutes For Mom’s “Ultimate Blog Party Week”!!

This is a week long event, where ladies can share their blogs with others - meeting LOTS of new online friends. So, to all you new ladies/ readers - WELCOME to Nine Months or Less!

What is Nine Months or Less? Glad you asked!

Nine Months or Less began primarily as a blog for me to document my current pregnancy - due April 10th!! I love to write and journal, but have NO time for scrapbooking any longer. This is as good as I can do with a 4, 3, and 19 month old.

I hope to share what I’ve learned in my past pregnancies, products I’ve found useful (or not), and various other odds and ends related to pregnancy, birth, and beyond! I also hope to share one day in the future on the topic of miscarriage, as I had one myself in 2006.

I welcome new readers - and commentors! This is the most wonderful blessing God has given to me, to carry/ bear/ birth/ and raise a generation for Him! Each child is a gift from Him, and we love and cherish each one dearly.

And now, as a treat for members, loyal readers, and new readers - we’re beginning a week long event of PRIZES!!!! Each day will bring a new contest - each being open for 7 days, so check back daily! Be sure to check out our giveaways at www.HeavenInOurHomes.com and http://Sonbeams.com blogs as well!

Today’s Great Giveaway: Calendula Baby Bottom Spray and Choice of Bar Soap

Offered by: Cheeky Maiden Soap Company

 AND (Winner’s Choice)

Spray - Witch Hazel extract cools burning rashes, while Calendula Oil and Lavender Essentail oil sooth and heal the skin. Tea Tree Oil helps to eliminate yeast and bacterial overgrowth. A fine mist sprayer portions out just the right amount to make this bottle las.

Simply spritz a fine mist onto baby’s skin and follow up with a soft cloth if necessary, or spray onto a cloth or soft paper towel (wet or dry.) For extra big messes, the Cheeky Maiden Family starts with a wet wash cloth!

Soap - Winner gets THEIR pick of a soap bar from Cheeky Maiden’s line of homemade soaps! I myself love her Nettle Shampoo Bar and Breakfast Bar - and am looking forward to trying out the Plain Jane next week once it’s cured!

No worries about extra additives that bother mom or baby’s skin - it’s all natural! 

——————————-

Alright, How this contest works! Each contest is open for one week (from starting date of that contest). You can receive entries based on the following:

*1 entry for leaving a comment about something you love on the sponsor’s website

*1 entry for adding the Nine Months or Less text link to your blog or website (Leave link back in comment)

*1 entry for blogging about this contest on your blog (Leave link back in comment)

*1 entry for each $5 purchase from our Baby/ Children’s Product Page (Before tax and shipping charges)

*1 entry for joining me on Facebook (Mrs. Candace)  and plugging our site on your page

You MUST leave a separate comment for each entry. Comments will be totaled, and Random.org will choose the winning comment number! This contest ends March 27th at 11:59 PM (CST). Comments button is faint (sorry) - look down and to the right at the end of the post.

Let the fun begin! Thanks for visiting! **Don’t forget to check out our other giveaways this week, as well as my other blogs (at the top of the post)!!**

“Little Mommy”

Today, I’m having a guest post, since I know very little about this product. I was excited when Lara from Sugar Sweet Baby wrote me about her wraps, as this is something I have been very interested in myself.

With our first baby, I had found a little carrier at a yard sale - but hubby wasn’t too wild about the bright neon colors, so he put a nice ‘male suitable’ Snuggli on the registry. Well, my carrier was so flimsy, it wouldn’t hold up a newborn’s head.

His looked nice, and had a nice snap feature across the top of your back (adding extra support/ less back pain), but the legs were so tight! Our babies had chubby little legs, and these didn’t fit very well into the small openings on the Snuggli. Plus, it was pretty complicated (IMO) to get the baby in and out of.

With our last, we encountered reflux at the very early age of 2 weeks. So basically, you could get NOTHING done because he had to be held ALL of the time. The carrier (DH’s) was the only one that would support a newborn, and I couldn’t stand the hassle of getting it on and then getting him in it. We tried a sling from DH’s boss, but it too offered little support.

It was probably one of the $20-$30 ones you find at WalMart. He was pretty heavy, and so he fell to my knees the first time I tried it. I got it adjusted better, but then he still sunk so far into it that the opening closed him up and you couldn’t hardly see him. Plus, it seemed to strain my back - a common complaint of baby carriers/ slings.

While I really appreciated the offer to use it - it wasn’t doing a thing for us. That’s when I started hearing ladies at church talking about different options…. And even now I’m hearing about “Wraps”. So, Lara’s website really sparked my interest, and I’ve anxiously awaiting gettting MY wrap from her in the mail. Plus, her being a fellow WAHM - well, I LOVE supporting them vs. a big retailer.

She has different options, but due to living in hot/ humid Alabama, I’m choosing her Bamboo wrap. It’s a little more expensive than the cotton, but is a cooler material for mom and baby. After trying my share of carriers, I can understand the heat issue! You can read more about the options on her site.

Again, since I know very little about these at the moment (until I get to try my very own from her!!), here’s Lara!

As a Mom of two, I find myself thinking “I am only one person”, so Bamboo Baby Wraps have been a life saver!  I have an active 3 yr old boy, and an 8 ½ month old girl. 

I am not the type to sit around, neither is my son!  When I first had Callie in June, my son was very ready to be on the go, it was finally nice out (we live in NY).  So literally the week  after I got out of the hospital, off we went, just the three of us for a walk.  Yes, I was a little sore, but I needed  to get out of the house, I was tired of being tired! 

I wrapped my new little bundle, Callie, in a Bamboo Baby Wrap that I had made.  I “frogged” her little cute legs and she instantly was calm and content.  We took a very short walk to the park, and I was able to push Logan in the swing, while having my little girl close.   

I literally use my Bamboo Baby Wrap everyday now, from grocery shopping to taking walks. *Tip: tie the wrap before leaving the house this way when you get to where you are going, you can just place your baby in the wrap.

I love that Callie sees me putting the wrap on and gets excited!  Last week, she cut a tooth and nothing would calm her down.  I placed her in the wrap and she fell asleep for an hour and a half!  I was in heaven, since normally she only sleeps for maybe a half hour. 

I believe in what I make, and the materials I use.  Bamboo is an amazing material, it is so soft, light, airy, strong,  hypoallergenic, anti bacterial and odor free,  biodegradable, and lastly is Eco-friendly (the crops do not need to be sprayed with any chemicals to grow).  

I have tried many baby carriers, one that cost $150, and the buckles would dig into me, and my little one did not like it!  I was upset, that I spent that much money on a carrier and it didn’t even keep my baby snug.   

I do believe that Baby Wraps keep your Baby snug and comfortable without any strain on your back.  Every wrap is customized for you, so you can pick your favorite colors to express your style. 

Special - Take an additional 15% off your $30 purchase, sale ends March 1^st!

Lara

 



 (Be sure to mention you read about her product on Nine Months or Less!)

Question from a reader:

Did you ever buy those cute little pee pee tee pee’s?  The first time I saw them I was laughing prettty hard, but now I keep hearing more about them and am wondering if it would be wise to pick them up - or just deal with the whole pee thing which really doesn’t bother me anyway.

Great question!! And boy did I enjoy the laughs that went along with this idea.

I had never heard of these before, I guess I don’t get out enough - but they were pretty much what I imagined. They have a provision on their site where I can’t use the image without permission, but here is the direct link to view this - http://www.bebabean.com:80/products/pptp.aspx.

Basically, this product is a cone shape cloth product that slips over the little boy - supposedly shielding you, as the diaper changer, from any ‘missiles’ shot your way. HA HA HA  - I’m laughing all over again. (And not at the commentor - but the product)

I’m open to hear any comments/ feedback from others on this, but here’s my take:

My boys didn’t give us much trouble, we rarely had incidents with flying tee tee. I guess we had more with our first (and probably Daddy more than me??), but we just used a baby washcloth to cover him if it was going to take us more than a second to switch diapers.

I can only imagine that I’d be laughing each time I attempted to situate this cone over a little boy, and be laughing hysterically when he DID tee tee and the thing shot clear across the room! Can you see it - come on, you can and admit, you are laughing too!

I mean, I can see this handling a small trickle okay, but when our boys went - they REALLY went!

So, to answer the question - No, I’ve never bought these, and don’t forsee doing it anytime soon.

How about any of you? Have you heard of these, or had experience using them?

“Little Mommy”

There’s a strange feeling this morning (and I know what it is), but for you first time moms, let me first backtrack….

I woke up feeling great this morning! I was IN bed before 11 PM, though my body isn’t used to going to bed that early. I was probably able to fall asleep in 20 minutes or so. It felt WONDERFUL to get that extra hour of sleep last night - since the baby didn’t wake up until 7:45.

Before, I would’ve said that was way too early (which it IS early for us most days), but with the earlier bedtime, I was rested enough that it didn’t bother me.

When I mentioned to DH the other day how I’m getting tired earlier each night, he only had to say “it’s about time” with a sarcastic laugh. I am, and always have been a night owl. Let me stay up til 12 or 1 and I can get so much more accomplished. That works, unless you have children that don’t let you sleep in til 9:30.

Okay, back to this morning, I was ready to go! I didn’t turn on the computer to check mail, since I was so pepped for going full steam ahead. I had breakfast on the table by 8:30, and we were all enjoying our morning together.

Then, I picked up 18 mo. baby from his booster seat and lowered him to the floor - and there it was….

Something that was different, uncomfortably so. You’ll know it when you feel it - a very tight, pinching feeling way down low. I quickly moved the baby to my hip front my front and set him down. Okay, much better.

As the little ones played, I began washing off dishes to fill the dishwasher I’d just unloaded. Funny how we’re now doing a FULL load of dishes every day now! And there returned that very pinching, sharp, stabbing pain - like someone stabbing up you with a screwdriver or something.

I kept telling myself to ignore it, and just finish the dishes - which I did partly. I finished the dishes, but couldn’t ignore it. I quickly had to sit down!

Now, veteran moms probably know exactly what’s going on, but do any first timers know what I’m talking about?

Well, at 32 weeks and what - 3 days? - the baby is now head down! Yep, this tiny little head causes this pressure everytime as has now settled into the birthing position. And my guess is that it’s not floating anymore - but is already at one of the first positions.

With my first (at this same exact time), I was 4 cm dilated/ 50% effaced/ and the baby was at -1 position I believe. So, I’m not completely surprised that just as my previous pregnancies, my body is already preparing around the 32 week mark.

This change of events has caused me to rethink my statement made last night. Instead of waiting til 36 weeks, I WILL be keeping my appt. in two weeks now. And if the pressure gets stronger, will possibly try to get in next week too.

I called DH to tell him this morning, and not 30 minutes later, he’s calling back just to tell me he thinks I should keep my appt.

It’s exciting, knowing we’re getting so close now!! This will really limit what I’m able to do from here on out - pretty much any type of exertion will work this baby farther and farther along. As I’ve mentioned before, I haven’t ever ’started’ labor under being 4 cm dilated already - meaning, I have always been at least 4 cm at my last dr.’s visit before I end up going in to have a baby a few days later.

Oh - update on the Yucky Ducks….

I tried these out yesterday. Turns out, I do like the velcro, and can see how it fits the baby much easier. The soaker insert worked well, and the waterproof cover kept his clothes dry. He was kinda fussy, so I’m wondering if it’s just from feeling the wetness after going tee tee.

He was funny when I first put it on, patting the diaper and smiling/ laughing. He could tell it was different.

My drawbacks - the large size barely fits him!! Plus, there’s not ANY extra material, so it was rather low in the front and back. It was also large between the legs, but IMO (in my opinion), this gives more room for messy diapers.

Last night while researching the diapers trying to find more inserts (since I can simply change them instead of changing the whole diaper, if I put it on top of the diaper instead of in the pocket), I can across MANY negative reviews on these diapers.

Apparently, they are cheap in price for a reason. The low rise not providing enough coverage (can see that - always allow a size larger than you need, or maybe two) and the waterproofing failing after a month or so.

Well, reading this, I know for sure that I won’t be drying them, since this would melt down and deteriorate the PUL quicker. Overall, people said they were good for emergencies. I can see that they ARE better than the Kooshies brand I bought second hand years ago, so they aren’t 100% bad. I am glad to have some ‘less expensive’ diapers, but from here on out will be buying higher quality.

“Little Mommy”