Fellow moms, I need your help!!

Calling all moms!! Calling all moms!! If you are pregnant, a new mom, or a veteran mom, we need your help.

My childhood friend Dominique and I are embarking on a new project and we would love to include your real life experiences as part of our new project. It is easy to participate and gives you the chance to share what you have learned from your experiences as a mom. We want to hear it all; the good, the bad, and the funny.

It is easy to participate. If you answer YES to all the questions below, we would love for you to complete our questionnaire and submit your prenatal, birthing, and mommy stories.

1. Are you 18 years or older?

2. Are you pregnant? or Have you given birth at least once?

If you answered YES to both questions, you are an ideal participant. To participate, please inbox us with your e-mail address so that we can send you a consent form. You can send your request to momsisterhood@gmail.com  We must have a signed consent form before we can review your entries. After you submit the consent form you will be sent a questionnaire. We have questions for each stage of motherhood (pregnancy, birth, motherhood), so if you haven’t reached a stage, it is ok. We want to hear what you are experiencing now as well as what you have experienced in the past. We do require a separate consent form for each stage submission. For example, If you want to submit information on your birth and motherhood, we will need two consent forms (one for birth and one for Motherhood). The consent form has a section where you indicate what consent form is being submitted for the section. Now all you have to do is mail or email your entries and consent form. The deadline for entries is November 1, 2014.

We cannot wait to hear from you,

Dominique and Sabrina

8 month update and a GIVEAWAY!!

Hello everyone!!


Boy, has this month flew by. baby Doll is 8 months and is a handful. She now does not want to leave my sight. It is definitely getting harder to get thing done with a baby attached to your leg.  She doesn't even want people to hold her now. So, I have decided to try out and research some baby carriers. With football fast approaching, I will need an easy way to carry her around. I do have a moby wrap, but its gets kind of hot. The fabric is extremely thick and tends to loosen when worn for a long time. My great friend Chelsea made me a wrap that is awesome. It is so lightweight and thin, so baby Doll and I are never sweating lol. I use that one everyday!! It is always in my diaper bag. I use it at the grocery store the bank, and even got to use it at a 4th of July party. Baby Doll can bee a little squirmy, so I really want like a baby carrier. I went to a specialty store and tried on a bunch. The best one was the Tulip. Baby Doll started to fall asleep at the store lol. But the baby carrier is really expensive. I mean almost $200. As an unemployed mama, I have to conserve money. I was given some great alternatives that will give me and Baby Doll the support and comfort we need. I also met a new friend in Alabama, and she is going to give me one of her extra carriers!! I Know, AWESOME. I asked her it she had a sewing machine, because I wanted to try to make a mei tai baby carrier and she was like " I have an extra one we don't use, if you would like to try it." 


A little about my new friend Heather. She is from Maryland. I know crazy and she has a 10 month old baby girl. She also just moved here a couple of weeks ago. We met at storytime at the library, and got coffee and have hung out a bunch of times. Just coffee, the mall, and farmers market!! She even watches the Bachelorette lol We are definitely a match.


Some more good news. I was able to join a mommies walking group. It was nice. Meeting other moms, sharing stories, and finally meeting new people in the area. I met Noelle at the farmers market. (She is the one that invited me to the group). Funny thing is we were parked right next to each other and started talking. She has a beautiful baby boy close in age to Baby Doll. I was glad I went, and even got in a good work out.




So because of all the awesome stuff my friends have done I am doing a beauty giveaway. Here is how you enter:


1. Share my blog link on one of your social media sites


2. Tag me to the post.
Twitter: Brinaaze
Instagram: MrzzButler2U
FaceBook: Sabrina Azemar


3. And comment on my blog one nice thing someone has done for you lately.


I will choose a winner in 2 weeks. Here is what the winner will receive:






2 full size eye shadow bushes
perfume sample
Be A Bombshell Mascara (Full size)
Sample size face scrub
Sample size eye cream.
Makeup bag


Good luck to everyone and see ya soon!


Sabrina

7 Months!!! Time is finally flying by

Hello everyone!!


We are officially in the 7 month stage. Because I am a woman, and I love to change my mind, I would like to recant everything I said about wanting baby Doll to crawl. AHHHHHHH she is driving me nuts. I feel like all day, I am saying "No" "Don't Touch" "Let Go" "Come Back" "Stop" etc. etc. We barely have furniture after the move, but you realize why child proofing is important.


So let me start from the beginning. We have started going to The Little Gym's Little Bugs class. It is awesome and Baby doll get to interact with other babies around her age and I get to talk to PEOPLE, real people. She started just scooting, but she spoke to a little boy in Gym class and started to crawl INSTATLY!! yes people, INSTATNLY. Now I can't keep her still. There are also small ballet bars to help baby stand. Now, Baby stands in her crib, but can't sit back down. We have had some long nights of crying because she gets stuck in the standing position. So she crawls, she stands, and now she is starting to side walk when she is holding on to something. HELP ME!! I need her to stay in one place lol. I love seeing her hit milestones, but all these have happened within weeks of each other.


We have also introduced the pool. We did go last month, but with the high temperatures we have been experiencing, I have made it a very frequent thing. Luckily, I do have a very clean pool in the complex that we live in. Baby Doll loves splashing and kicking her feet; but don't you dare get her face or hair wet lol. I have dunked her a couple of times, but she has gotten hysterical, so I am going to let her do it in her own time. I do use the floaty and I also just carry her. She has been wearing her hat and doesn't mess with it. She like that it keeps the sun out of her face.


That is it for 7 months!! I do have a challenge for everyone! If I can get 4,000 views by the end of the month I will reveal a picture of Baby Doll and Big Head that was taken on Father's Day weekend.


See ya soon,


Sabrina

Prayer Request

Hello everyone!!


As we are finally getting settled in Alabama, I would like everyone to pray for me as I look for employment. I have worked since I was 14 years old, and now that I have my Master's degree, I really am asking the lord to provide me the opportunity to apply my education to a career I can be proud of. Your prayers are greatly appreciated.


Thanks
Sabrina

Long time no see

Hello everyone!

Sorry I have been M.I.A. it has been a crazy month. Baby Doll turned a half of a year lol. We also recently relocated to another state. So much has changed, so lets jump straight into it.

Baby Doll had her 6 month appointment, and passed with flying colors. She is showing up as being in the 80 percentile for her height, weight, and head circumference. She did get shots, but we had a male nurse who is awesome and gives shots so quick, she doesn't even feel them. She is a rolling machine. She rolls to get wherever she needs to go. To get a toy far away, or to find my computer cord to pull lol. She can also get herself  back to a sitting position on her own, The crazy thing about that is she first did it at my BF Whitney's house. It was too funny. She is also trying to stand up. Big Head will be lowering her crib this weekend, because she is way to close to accomplishing that goal and I do not need a major accident right now lol. She still talks my head off and loves to sing. Yes I said sing. If music is on, she will hold long notes and think she is Aretha Franklin lol. You cannot leave her unattended!! I left her on the floor with a bunch of toys to put on make up, but I realized she was completely silent. When I went to check on her, it looks like she may have ingested half of a shopping receipt. I have no Idea where she found it, but half was gone. Then she screamed at me when I took it away. lol I have also realized that she takes ownership to everything she touches, so I am aware that I have a spoiled child already on my hands lol. Everyday I love seeing her face though. She drives me completely nuts, and at the end of the day I am pooped, but I can't wait to do it again the next day. Baby Doll is out of  The blob" stage, so it is so fun to be around her because the crying is not as constant.  I have tried to give her those little puffs so she can practice feeding herself, but she does not like the taste lol. If anyone has any good finger food ideas for a sitting baby, please let me know. No teeth yet, but I am sure it is close. With all the drool and

Now lets talk about relocation with a baby. OMG do you get on a wonky schedule. Now I am still nursing so I can't just drive and drive till we reach our destination, I would probably burst lol. So we did have to take breaks to feed her. But I felt like the feeding schedule was a little off. It is hard to get on schedule when you just want to get to your destination as quick as possible. Baby Doll did a great job. No crying the whole way. She slept some, talked some, and played some. We were able to stop by my twin sis for the nigh and sleep in a hotel which was nice, but Baby doll is a bed hog. I nearly fell off the bed because she was all over the place, and I was way to paranoid. We have been in our new home for a total of a week, and I have almost everything in place. It is really nice that Baby Doll has her own room, and she is finally getting back on schedule. Because I am still getting to know the area, I spend most of my day trying to find where things are and getting lost, and finding my way again. We do have a pool in my area and We took her for her first swim. She loved kicking her feet, but didn't like going under water lol. We have to work on that.

I was a little sad leaving my friends behind. I have been able to make new friends that have little ones. So I am determined to meet moms with children in my new location. The friendships have helped me so much in the past, and I would like Baby Doll to have someone to play with as well.  I hope everyone had a great Mother's Day. For my first Mother's day, It was great. I even got a card from Baby Doll lol.

I hope everyone is doing well. Please pray for me in my new job search.

See you soon,
Sabrina

Happy 5 Months

Happy 4 months!!

Mommy mode initiated!!

Hello everyone!

I know it has been awhile, but being a mom is hard work. Riva is officially 3 months!! She is trying to roll over, and tries to talk all day long. She smiles and laughs and sleeps for 7 hours at night!! Baby doll is officially a big girl. I love the way she looks when she just wakes up. She love to Skype with her Tati Sabine and G-Ma. She is now also eating a little bit of rice cereal inside her bottle.

I don't know about other moms, but I am doing laundry like every other day lol. I don't think I've done my own laundry in a month lol. Don't Judge! I have decided Today, I am going to clean my room and the bathroom. I have been keeping Riva's nook very clean and organized, but I can't seem to keep my stuff straight. I know what I want for Christmas...a house keeper once a month lol.

So, I have been back to work for about 2 months now. Because of my awesome friend Chelsea, I was able to get a lactation room at work equipped with a mini fridge, extension cord, comfy couch,  and window shade. I am still a little late from my breaks because pumping takes more than 15 minutes for me, but I am getting it done. I am also getting the hang of securing her car seat in the car lol. You may think that is a simple task, but Baby Doll is HEAVY and I don't like using the car port thingy. She doesn't feel as secured.

I wanted to make a list of the things that I cant live without, so here it goes!!

Must-haves for 3 months:

• bathtub
• blooming bath
• play mat
• lots of books for bedtime

Things that are also new is Baby Doll loves Sesame Street, and story time at night. We watch Sesame Street on PBS about 3 times a day. it is usually the same episode, but she is completely quiet when it is on. It gives me a chance to do dishes, empty dishwasher, load the washer machine, and/or vacuum. I have mastered the one hander. I can carry Riva and do a bunch of stuff with just my left hand lol

Valentine's day is very close and I really want to get Baby Doll her ears pierced. We will see she has started evil eyeing me when she doesn't like something lol. Already showing her diva tendencies.


See you soon!
Sabrina A.

Soothing and Must-have "Oh My"

Hello everyone!!


I have had some requests for important things to know and what I've learned as a new mom. If you know me, you know I love to make lists. During my pregnancy, I had a list for my hospital bag, list for diaper bag, list for going to daycare, even a list forgoing to the doctors. It keeps me organized and in control of things; especially with a baby you can not control lol. So here are some of my list that I use on a daily basis:


To sooth a crying/fussing baby:
Every baby is different, so a lot of thing people told me to try Riva did not like. I finally found thing that worked for the both of us.

• Sitting on a medicine ball to rock her to sleep. the consistent bouncing was easy on my back and soothing for us both.
• whispering in her ear. Riva definitely loves hearing my voice especially since I know all she heard was my voice during pregnancy. I often hold her close and whisper "I love you", "I will be here when you wake up", "Everything is ok." Find what is important to you and say it to you little one.
• Create noise. I love my crib aquarium!! You can attach to the crib and it has ocean sounds music and little fishes and things. I  think purchasing a soother or noise maker is worth the money. I sometimes run the dishwasher or washer machine and the loud noise really relaxes her.
• Lights please. In the hospital it is extremely bright, so when you bring your little one home try having a night light on or the hall light on. sometimes the complete darkness keeps Riva awake, I think it reminds her of the womb too much and how she used to be awake in the dark. Once she is asleep, I turn the lights out

Must have baby items:
There are thing I cannot live without, especially with a growing baby.

• Side snap tee-shirts. They are so easy to put on and I don't have to fuss with pulling something over her head. I just snap the undershirt on and we are good to go
• A good purse. Diaper bags are cool when you are dropping the baby off at daycare or at your in-laws. It keeps her stuff together and away from every one's things, but who wants to carry 2 bags everywhere they go. I bought an awesome purse from Ross for $16. Its has straps long enough to pull over my shoulder, 2 side pockets that can be used as bottle holders, easy clean-up liner inside, and a front pocket for easy access to my cell phone and keys. Not to mention stylish, so I can wear it everywhere with everything.
• Document folder. You will be getting a lot of paperwork, so get an accordion folder. keeps shot records, doctor visits, coupons, and receipts all in the same place. Trust me your memory is officially gone now lol. I like to bring the folder with me to her appoints because its hand when the doctor ask questions about the last visit, or handing you paperwork you don't want to loose.
• Play mat. Riva is starting to grab a lot now, so her play mat is great. I can just lay her down and let her talk to herself while I do dishes or fold clothes. The hang toys give her something to play with and practice with. It is also good for tummy time. The fabric is easy to clean so she can spit up on it and its fine.
• The 3-B's. Bibs, Burp cloths, and Blankets. Babies spit up a lot even longer after feeding, so the bib keeps their clothes dry. Burp clothes are easy to carry around the house, especially when burping over the knee; using it under the chin keeps you and the baby dry lol. Blankets. receiving blankets are a must. I use them when we go outside to cover her, in her bouncer chair, to lay her down on the floor, to keep her warm when undressing her. I mean the list goes on. I have about 12 to 15. but they go everywhere.
• My nursing pillow. I have "My Breast-Friend" nursing pillow and I love it!! It makes nursing so much easier. When I don't have it, may back hurts, I can't get Riva latched on properly, and I have to burp her more.

Again, all babies are different and something will not work for you.( Riva HATES being swaddled). So tell me what your little one likes, and tell me if you tried any of my tricks!


See you soon and happy soothing,
Sabrina

Happy 2 Months

Hello everyone!!


Life as a busy mom has truly taking over!! People don't really tell you that you will love and hate motherhood both at the same time. Now, that does not mean my child, it just means the motherhood part.

But first, let me tell you about my Baby Doll!! Riva smiles when you smile at her, she tries to talk all the time, she loves story time, she can grab thing, and SHE LOVES HERSELF SOME BIG HEAD. I have to say, I am a little jealous the way they look at each other, but I am so glad that they love each other; and I know they will have a great relationship as she gets older. Today, We had her 2 month visit. At this visit, she got her immunizations, and let me tell you I was a wreck. The nurse was extremely nice, but I still was not prepared for her scream. My fiancé (Big Head) had to hold her arms. I couldn't even watch. As soon as we got home, I was spoiling her. Don't judge lol. So I held her for a good 2......ok 3 hours straight. But I felt so bad and I hate seeing her not being her normal smiley self. All is great. She is now 12 pounds 13 ounces and 22.64 inches long. And that is all breastfeeding and not eating meat!! She is in the 80 percentile :-) (proud mama).

She is still not sleeping through the nigh, but instead of me trying to get her on a schedule....we lets just say we have given up lol.... I am getting used to sleeping late and catching sesame street on PBS lol I am normally not a coffee drinker, but boy do I love me some coffee. My twin sis gave me the idea to use hot chocolate and pour fresh coffee over the mix. mmmhhhmmmm its so good. But because Riva is having dry skin I have to give up caffeine and chocolate for a while (sad day) So, I have decided, my day in the office I will have coffee, but that's it.

This month we have...Riva has...experienced the bubble guts lol. We have had to change some EXPLOSION of a diaper and once it was back to back. You would have thought I was sneaking steak juice in her bottle lol. The one thing that is hard to get used to is having time to yourself. I am a girl that loves make up and nail salons, but I haven't had the time for a pedicure. I have had to re-arrange my work schedule so that Riva is watched while I am at work, I have been late to almost...noo not almost...I have been late to EVERYTHING! I am surprised I have clocked into work on time. I have been having to pump in a bathroom stall at work, so I have been late to all my breaks when I am in the office. lol  But all day long, all I can think about is my Baby Doll and how much I miss her lol. Crazy how a person that cant talk to you has all you love and attention, not to mention you money lol. But I cant imagine anyone more perfect. I know she is truly my soul mate.

I have to be honest, I have had some great friends and family that have given me great advise. Making me feel less crazy lol.

So happy 2 months to me!!

See everyone soon

Sabrina

Vampire Diaries

Hello Everyone!!

I am writing this at 12:21 AM in the morning. My little girl is a big night owl, and we are hitting the sack at 4 am almost every night. I am not going to lie, we have had some rough nights. So I decided to start a night time ritual that allows us to kind of condition us to get ready for bed. So when I feed her at about 6 to 7 pm. I put her down and start setting the mood. Mood lighting, lullaby music (courtesy of Pandora), and the temperature in the room is just right. Then at 10 pm I feed her, and try to take a nap with her before her 1 or 2 am feeding. 

I did take her to the pediatrician to make sure she was ok. Everything is good, but I was told that it loos like I have been over feeding her. The pediatrician thought I was formula feeding her. NOPE she is chuncky of breast milk lol. She is now....almost 12 pounds and is about 6 weeks old :-) So my baby likes to eat, who am I to unlatch her early lol Clearly the doctor hasn't seen Big Head. He was a big baby as well.

Good news!! Riva does sleep in her crib. Yay!! I great friend sent me a handmade baby pod and it helps to cover her at night. She does not like to be swaddled, so this is an awesome alternative. I have been cheating and sitting on my medicine ball to bounce her to sleep lol. I have to say standing up to rock her is not comfortable. I do sing to her everyday and we listen to music all the time. I am getting nervous about going back to work. The cost of daycare is no joke, and I have like NOT working lol, but I will be ready to see my normal paycheck again lol.

Here is a random experience. The car seat thingy that allows you to just click in the car seat is annoying. I'd rather buckle and unbuckle her in and out its so much faster. My sister-in-law also graduated culinary school, and I was able to use the moby wrap which was awesome for the small space and I didn't have to lug the stroller. I have considered purchasing a stroller frame, but I don't know if I want to cough up that kind of money. Decisions Decisions.

Now I don't know if its the baby throwing me off, but I have not purchased 1 Christmas gift. HELP AMAZON!!! wish me luck lol

I hope everyone has a great Holiday and New Year.
See you next year

Sabrina

My Little Jet Setter

Hello Everyone!!!

So while my little angel take a nap, I am going to tell you all about our trip to Orlando.

Going to Orlando was slightly easier because Big Head was there to carry the baby while I handled other items through customs. I also had my moby wrap and wore that the entire time at the airport, even on the plane. Riva was asleep the entire time in that thing. Probably one of the best things I have ever purchased (thanks Craig's List lol). I was able to grab my luggage and get her in the car seat just fine. I did decide to check the car seat and stroller at the ticker counter. But with all that being said, her feeding schedule was turned upside down and we were all out of whack, which made for a very difficult evening at my mother's house. By the second day, I was able to get her back on schedule. The funny thing is, I really think Riva knew we were not at home. She just could never get comfortable. For two nights she slept in her car seat. My mother also spoiled her by picking her up even when she was just a little fussy, something that does not happen at home. I don't pick her up that much. Because of the C-section, I can't comfortably hold her throughout the night.

On the way back from Orlando, I decided that I was going to check the car seat and stroller at the gate. BAD IDEA when you are by yourself. I did not know you actually had to put both through the conveyor belt. That was crazy. So picture me holding Riva, collapsing the stroller, putting both the stroller and car seat on the conveyor belt, taking off my shoes. Then grabbing all that stuff, WHILE STILL HOLDING A NEWBORN!!! OMG and no one helped. Some women that also had babies helped be, but that's because their significant other had their stuff lol. Its all a learning experience though. By the end of customs, me and Riva were both sweating lol. This time, I feed her at her normal feeding time, changed her diaper, burped her and she was great. Because my flight was low occupancy, I was able to bring the car seat on board at no additional charge, That was Amazing!! me and the baby got a really good nap. I even nursed her on the plane. There was no one near me so I was self conscious or anything.

Overall, It was a good trip and I am glad my baby got to meet my amazing mother!! I definitely can't wait to do another trip.

Happy Two Weeks!!

Hello Everyone!

So Riva is officially 2 weeks old!  I can't believe I've been a mom for two weeks eek. I wish I could say I am getting the hang of it, but everyday seems to be a new experience lol. She used to eat every 3 hours, but now she wants to eat every 2 hours. Breastfeeding is definitely hard work, but I still like doing it. I have been able to pump often. I read somewhere that if you pump after nursing, then your  body will make more milk. I have at least 2 days worth in my freezer :-) I am trying to get ready for her daycare days in January. Co-workers at my job gave me a gift card to Babies R Us, so I used some of the money to purchase milk storage bags and bottles. The hospital gave me some as well, but not enoungh for what I am pumping lol.

On Monday I will be going to Orlando to visit my mother. I am so excited for her to see and meet Riva. I know they are going to love each other instantly. I am a little nervous about traveling on a plan with a newborn, so ant suggestion will be greatly appreciated. I read a blog saying that you should breastfeed or bottle feed during taking off to help with ear pressure. Normally, Riva is pretty 'gansta' when it comes to shots and uncomfortable visits  to the  doctor, so I don't doubt she will be fine. She is a tough sleeper. The other day she slept thorough the blender crushing ice. pretty crazy lol.

I have so much stuff to get together to travel her clothes, my clothes, diapers, wipes blankets, and more and more and more stuff lol. Should I bring the stroller? More stuff I never had to think about before. I will be flying Southwest airlines, so I am hoping they allow people with small children on first lol never noticed if southwest allows that. I did read that I should get an aisle seat so that I can walk up and down during the flight.

Well that is all for now. See you soon!
Sabrina

She is finally here!!

Hello everyone!

As some of you may know, I gave gave birth to a beautiful baby girl on November 7, 2013 at 7:04 pm.

On Wednesday, I was feeling contractions about 10 minutes apart the whole day. When I decided to go to bed early. Around 2:00 am, I was awakened out of my sleep with some intense contractions that were about 5 to 7 minutes apart. That when I decided to time them. By 3:00 am, my contractions were 5 minutes apart and lasting about 90 seconds. That when I decided to go to the hospital.

Its a little after 4:00 am, and I packed up my car checked  my listed and loaded the car seat. The drive to the hospital wasn't bad, but it did  feel like I was catching every single red light on my way there. I entered the emergency entrance and was sent to triage in the maternity wing. After about  an hour of observation, they said I was going to have my baby today and that it was time to move to my delivery room!! Yikes! I was scared and excited. That's when I decided to call my fiance, sister, mom and mother-in-law.

My water was broken about half way through labor, and that when labor got intense!! I mean like out of body intense. My fiance ended up showing up right at 10 centimeters and ready to push. After about 2 hours of pushing and no progress, my midwife and doctor said I had to have a C-section.

Oh I went HAM on them lol. There were a lot of tears. After handling labor that long, I felt defeated that I had to get a C-section. My doctor let try to go vaginal for another hour. Where We tried a bunch of different positions, but nothing worked :-( The anesthetist was called in and before you knew it I was getting wheeled into the operating room. I even had 2 nurses that stayed after their shift to be in the operating room. Big Head was also in the room. I don't remember all the details, all I remember is hearing her cay as soon as they pulled her out and seeing her face for the first time. They called out 7:04 pm. They handed her to Big Head and he went with her to the nursery as I was getting stitched together.

The doctors and nurses were amazed at how well I was doing and sent me home after 2 days. The baby passed all her test with flying colors. I know everyone wants to know her name and stats so here you go:

Riva Symiah
Born 7:04pm November 7, 2013
7 pounds 12 ounces
21 inches long

We are both now home and getting the hang of everything. She cries a lot and the first 2 nights were rough, but we are definitely getting into a routine that I can handle lol. Sometimes I find myself just watching her. I have made the decision to breastfeed and it was a little hard at first, but I am definitely enjoying that bounding time with her. I get to see my mom soon, and I can't wait for her to meet my daughter (OMG I have a daughter).

I hope to update you all on how motherhood is going so please stay tuned
See you soon,
Sabrina

Don't Judge Me!!!

Hello everyone!!

Well with only 16 days left till my due date, I have been off the vegan wagon. My amazing mom came into town and made me Haitian style oatmeal. It has carnation milk and tons and tons of butter lol. It was sooo yummy!! I also took my mom to Cheesecake Factory. She had never been, so my fiance sent me some extra money to treat her. I had a salad, but we did share a pumpkin pecan cheesecake. Man it was amazing. I almost snapped at the waitress for trying to remove the plate with one more bite left on the plate. Doesn't she know don't mess with a pregnant women and her plate lol. I also went to Popeye's, because I had a craving for biscuits. OMG so freaking good lol.

I promise, I am going to get back on the wagon. It was a minor slip. Had a great week seeing my mom, brother and twin sis!! Those kids are crazy lol. My mom did get to come to my appointment. Still just 1 cm dilated. Ugh!! Sometimes I just want her here already lol. My sister even got to see my stomach move lol It was pretty creepy looking lol. I also got to teach my sis some baking skills lol. We got to make banana bread, sticky buns, and sugar cookies from scratch.

I have been feeling some contractions, but very dull ones. It kind of feels like a menstrual cramp that grows in intensity, but then goes away. With 16 days left, she can come at anytime. I had a friend say there is a full moon next week, so you never know.

I am getting really nervous now. My stomach is definitely getting in the way, and I am definitely feeling slower and tried. It is getting harder to get out of the bed too and I have to say sitting on the toilet is so comfortable lol. My mother-in-law let me borrow her medicine ball and I love that thing. I just watch TV and sit on it, do homework, and even talk on the phone lol.

Hope everyone has a good week. See you soon.
Sabrina

3 weeks to go!!

Hello everyone!!

Well I made it to 37 weeks! I am officially OVER IT! My tail bone pain has been worse, rib pain, and using the bathroom like crazy. My doctor still says I am 1 cm dilated, and I was cleared to travel to my sister's wedding. I have been drinking a lot of tea and water. I think the only reason my feet haven't been swollen is because all the water I've been drinking. My older sis got me a water purifier for my faucet, so no more bottle water needed :-) Now I think it is important for babies to have regular  tap water, so the purifier is really for me lol.

My mom is also in town, so its been nice hanging with her. She was able to go to my appointment and hear the baby's heart beat and meet my doctor. I normally go to those appointments by myself, so it was really nice. And I even had some  Haitian style oatmeal made for me so that was definitely a plus.

I have been very irritable lately. Like people irritate me, full gas stations irritate me, and rude neighbors lol. But hey, I guess that is what come with it all. Baby doesn't move as much with so little space, but she always wants to remind me that she is in there once a day with a large stretch and sometimes a roll.

I am definitely getting really tired and experiencing some dry eye. But I guess if the baby is healthy, who cares what the other stuff is. I am so excited to see her and can't wait for my family to meet her.

3 WEEKS TO GO!!!

See you soon
Sabrina

28 days left!!

Hello everyone,

I am officially in the 9th month of my pregnancy. I had a visit with my midwife that went great. I had the take the Step B test. This test is invasive, and I should have the results on my next visit. I go to an appoint every week now. I also got a cervical exam. I found out I was 1 cm. lol don't worry that is nothing. My cervix is still pretty high and mucus plug is still intact. I am definitely getting anxious!!

I had some awesome gifts come in the mail like a bathtub, hand sanitizer, and a faucet water purifier :-) I am still trying to figure out where to store the bathtub lol, but for now its in the crib lol. Some good news is I was able to find some really cheap, but quality nursing bras at Burlington Coat Factory. A friend of mine also suggested nursing tank tops are a must have as well.

I have a new symptom, ugh. LEG CRAAMPS!! And I mean in the middle of the night. and man are they painful. I also still have lower back pain, tail bone pain, and I am extremely sleepy. I have also been extremely emotional lately. I feel really bad for my fiance, but he has been nice and just says quiet on the phone and lets me go crazy on him lol

Great news, is my mom will get to come to my next appointment. She will hear the baby's heartbeat for the first time. I don't know what it is, but no matter how crazy your mom is lol, its always nice to have her and experience my first born with her. I am a little sad I wasn't able to get an appointment when my sister came to town, but I will let her her the baby with my stethoscope.

My older sister is getting married next weekend as well. I was instructed my doctor and midwife that I will need to bring my hospital bag, prenatal history, and my birth plan if I intend to go. You aren't supposed to travel after 34 weeks, and I will make that decision as the days get closer. I was told that I could not drive for a long period of time, that I should be sitting down the whole time, and to stay relaxed. So that is what I am hoping to do. But, like I said anything can happen in a week. I am officially 36 weeks today, so technically next week my baby is full term. My midwife says that first babies either come a week early or a week late, so will will see what time she comes.

Hope everyone is having a good month. If you are not, cheer up its HALLOWEEN  soon. :-)
See you soon,

Sabrina

Awful Start to my week

Hello everyone!!

OMG I've had some crazy stuff happen and it has only been my first day off. So yesterday, while working, I broke a tooth. Yes a piece of tooth came completely off. I know crazy!! So this morning I went to the dentist. I was told I needed a Root Canal and a crown!! ARE YOU KIDDING ME!! this baby is taking my teeth too lol. If you know me and my family, we love our teeth. I love whitening them, I brush 2 times a day, I even floss every day. So why in the hek do I need a root canal, ugh!! Luckily, I do have dental insurance, but even with insurance it a crap load of money. (note to self: become a dentist). But they are saying if I wait to long the damage could be more severe, painful and even more expensive!! What the hek am I supposed to do. I have left a message for my doctor's nurse to contact me because I am only allowed Tylenol for pain medication, and with this tooth procedure I don't know if that is going to cut it. Now I am just waiting for a call back.

This Thursday will be the last week  in month 8 of pregnancy. So, my due date is definitely approaching quickly. After this appoint, I will have an appointment every week until I give birth. I feel like that is going to make the weeks go by even faster.

Also, this morning I wake up and find a rash on my hip. It doesn't itch but it is definitely red. But there is no rash anywhere else. WTF. My face and feet are also starting to swell. Before you know it, I am going to look think a butter ball with extra butter. Skin has also been extremely oily lately. I find myself touch up my make-up more than usually.

I have been having some back, tailbone and hip bone pain as well. I honestly feel like an old lady (no offense to the elderly). I only have about 5 more Saturdays of class left so I hope my little one wait just a little longer.

Just a quick follow up, see ya soon.
Sabrina

Time is running out!

Hello everyone!

So I wanted to wait to make another post after my doctor appointment. I had one today with an ultrasound. Now, don't get to excited, the baby was moving so much we couldn't even get a good picture. The technician also told me that the bigger the baby, the worse the picture can be. Oh poopie! I was really looking forward to seeing her face. The picture we did get is still cute, and I think she is going to look exactly like Big Head. Yay!!

The baby is also measuring at about 6 lbs and in is the 65th percentile. So I was told she is measuring bigger, but all seems well. The more awesome news is, I didn't gain any weight from my last visit! Woot woot!! And I have to be honest, I have been eating like a pig. I guess walking around Walmart is paying off lol. She is also head down now.

On a serious note, I did have a positive fetal fibronectin test. This test determines if have an inkling to go in to preterm labor (in la min terms). If you have a negative test you are definitely not going to go into preterm labor; if you have a positive test you could go into labor, but 80% of women go full term. I know it's kind of weird. My doctor is not worried, so I am not worried. He says he would like me to go 37 weeks, but if I go early he will be ready lol. I am glad he will I am not so sure I will lol.

I did pack my hospital bag. I was able to go to the dollar store and pick some travel items to take with me. Here are a few essential I have packed:

• toothpaste
• tootthbrush
• mouthwash
• lotion
• chapstick
• face wipes
• slippers
• bobby pins
• hair ties
• deodorant

I also had to pack a going home outfit for me. Just some yoga pants and a loose top. I also had to pack undies, nursing pads, nursing cover, and a blanket from home. I figure I would want something that smelt familiar.

For the baby, I backed her going home outfit, a hat, socks, and 2 blankets. I also packed her diaper bag, just in case we go to my mother-in-law's house (her house is a lot better for receiving visitors, without being cramped in my apartment).

I haven't felt like nesting, so I am taking that as a sign that I have some time lol. I have actually felt the opposite. I have felt like cleaning anything. I am officially  34 weeks tomorrow, and I am pretty sure my baby wants to go to my big sister's wedding to see what the fuss is about lol, but we will see.

I am nervous and excited. I do wish people would stop telling me to relax. I am relaxed, but I don't see people bending backwards to help take my trash out or bring my groceries up the stairs, so for now I still have to do those things. I do want to do a spiritual cleanse in my apartment, so if anyone had done one let  me know :-). I have been drinking 2 glasses of red raspberry tea everyday, so we will see if that helps with labor.

Hope everyone is great!
See you soon.

Sabrina

Long time no see

Hello everyone!

I am sorry its been so long since my last post. My life has been pretty boring these past couple of weeks lol. So let me catch you up on everything!

I am officially 32 weeks pregnant and only have 8 weeks to go!!! I am so happy it is almost over!! What I can say is-Why the hek are people rude to pregnant women? I don't want to hear how big I am, I'm not pregnant with twins, I am not popping out of anything, and I am walking just fine THANK YOU!!! So at 32 weeks, you can clearly see that I am pregnant. But now all I am hearing is "your so big," "are you sure you not having twins," and "don't worry, you are allowed to waddle with all that extra weight." Since when were those freaking compliments!! I have had to get rude on a couple of people and hurt their feelings. I mean I don't know if you know this, but your freaking rude! Here are some pointers: you can just say I look nice today, or how is the baby, or even do you have everything you need? You can still be polite without being an A**hole :-)

Also, I have stated repeatedly that I DO NOT want people to touch me. I am not a Buddha, nor a good luck charm; keep your hands to yourself! For personal reasons, I do not feel comfortable with people touching me. I have made that a known fact to people I interact with on a daily basis, but yet they are surprised when they are given a "love tap" denying them access. But no, they think its a joke, and try it a second time. So when I have to be rude and use force, they get upset. When you are pregnant you can let whoever you want touch you, but you cannot tell me i have to allow you to do anything when I politely have declined the first 2 times. My advise is to ask if the pregnant women would mind if you could touch her belly. I have never even given you a hug, but it fine enough to touch my mid section, how does that make sense?

Now everyone has been trying to figure out the name. Don't worry you only have 8 more weeks to find out so DON'T ask, guess, beg, or swindle because I ain't telling you. Don't worry you are not alone, my mother doesn't even know it.

Ok let talk real quick about the "baby shower" FOR THE LAST FREAKING TIME, I AM NOT HAVING A BABY SHOWER, BECAUSE NO ONE IS THROWING ME ONE!!! Now all these people want to get invited to a baby shower, but they know my family isn't here to throw me one. If you really consider yourself as a "friend" you will not need a baby shower to buy a gift. If you want to buy one, I will not decline. Me and the baby will appreciate it. But don't say-"how are you going to get gifts without one?" My family sent me a bunch of stuff, really really good friends sent me stuff, and don't worry my MAN take care of the rest. So for the phony people that want a free day of free food and booze, you got the wrong girl. And don't ask me about it again. thanks :-)

I am pretty much ready for baby. This month (October), I will be packing my hospital bag, filling out all hospital paperwork, finalizing my birth plan, disinfecting bottles, and drinking red raspberry leaf tea. Can you believe I am only 2 months away from a baby Smooth lol (everyone in college calls my fiance Big Smooth). I don't know about you, but it's about time!! I have been pregnant FOR-EV-ER!! LOL and I am ready to get my normal body and bowels back!! My next doctor appointment is in 2 weeks and I will get to have an ultrasound!! I am so excited because I haven't seen her since the anatomy scan during week 18 eek!! I can't wait! My doctor says he wants to see how big she is :-) I will let you know how it goes.

See ya soon
Sabrina