UPPAbaby Vista Jake

Yesterday, your pushchair was delivered. After much deliberation, we decided on the UPPAbaby Vista Jake.



We put it together last night and it's lovely. Hope you like it!

So that's the car seat, isofix base and the pushchair delivered. Most of the other big things are arriving next week. Hopefully we'll have the nursery a little more ready so they have somewhere to live!

Love you precious xx

Midwife 31+4 weeks

We've had a lot of snow and it hurts my pelvis to walk on it and the roads aren't very safe to drive on so i worked from home on Monday. This meant Daddy collected me from home in his Freelander to take me to the midwife. It was the first midwife appointment at the surgery that he's attended.

We talked to her about having a homebirth - despite my positive outcomes from the murmur investigation, she still wasn't keen but her manager was happy and she's said that if Birmingham Women's Hospital write to my GP to confirm that I am suitable for homebirth, that they'll plan for a homebirth. My first blood pressure reading was elevated and she did try to use that as a reason why I wouldn't be able to but she checked it again at the end of the appointment and it was absolutely fine - probably elevated initially because I'd be apprehensive about the appointment. Urine was fine, your heartbeat sounded perfect and bump measured fine. You're head down too so that's good.

I was grateful for Daddy's presence - without him, I think I would have been bullied into agreeing with her telling me I was still unsuitable. Thing is, we wouldn't be keen if there was a risk to you or to me so it's a bit insulting to have someone suggest we were taking risks when we've considered and discussed every little thing.

Fingers crossed the letter comes through and says what we need it to say.

Next appointment will be at home on 3 January (a Bank Holiday) and will be with another midwife (Jacqui will be on holiday) and then back in with Jacqui on 17 January (I have to call her on 10 Jacqui to check the letter's come through).

HypnoBirthing

Daddy and I have seen Sarah, my hypnotherapist, to do our first session of HypnoBirthing. It was really enlightening - we have to use positive language leading up to and during the birth (contractions = surges, push = breathe) and by all accounts, the birthing process should be far less painful and stressful with HypnoBirthing. The DVD's were quite amazing.

I need to change my birth plan and let the midwife looking after me know that I'll be having a HypnoBirth and then that's that. In the meantime, I will be practising some breathing exercises and affirmations. I'll also be listening to some hypnotherapy regularly leading up to the birth. Sarah has also left me with a book to read.

I'll be seeing Sarah at the end of January for another session.

Photo: 31+1 weeks

Photo: 28+4 weeks

Ante Natal Cardio Appointment

So having been booked into a cardio clinic that was full, I had a letter come through for an appointment with Mr Thompson (Ante Natal Cardiac Consultant) for today.

This morning, Daddy and I attended the appointment... and were seen an hour and a half after the time on the letter :(

Not all bad though - the lady we saw read through my notes, the reports for you and for me and listened to my heart - and then gave me the all clear. I've got a murmur yes, but it's a tiny hole that's only visible from one angle and shouldn't ever cause me a problem. No great surprise there - it's never been a problem before and it's not a problem at the moment but it's still lovely to hear. The best bit? That means I'm back to midwife care, I don't need additional hospital appointments and I can have my home birth!

So, my precious little one, I can bring you into the world wherever we choose. We're going to have a look around the Birmingham Women's and Solihull Birth Centres but I'm still keen on staying at home.

We shall see - I'll keep you posted xx

Catch up...

Hello poppet,

You seem to sleep every now and again now. I have been known to panic when you do - I'm so used to you wriggling. I'm getting used to the breaks in movement now but do love to feel the kicks and wriggles when you wake up.

I'm a bit prone to heartburn, especially if I don't eat regularly or have to bend down. No strange cravings I don't think. Generally more prone to sweet things but still enjoy my ham/bacon sandwiches. Bit headachy and I'm starting to get tired quicker than normal. Bump is steadily growing - I'm overdue a bump photo - again!! I seem to be carrying you out front, a bit like a football up my jumper - I don't look pregnant from the back apparently!

Pelvis, hips and back are still sore but osteopathy is definitely helping. She thinks my hypermobility is helping but I'm a bit worried about following Auntie Rosie. She had problems with her hips in pregnancy and it sounds like it was linked to flexibility - my hips have always been a bit prone to moving too much. I'm hoping that means my muscles are stronger from years of over compensating.

At work, my maternity leave has been approved but my boss isn't committing to my working from home some days in January or the leave I'd like in November/December. A few bits to iron out before Christmas I think.

Ante Natal classes are going well. Daddy missed the last one because he was in Barcelona for work but I had Auntie Lora as back up. I have interacted with one of the ladies by text and email this week and she seems to share my thoughts on natural birth, which is nice.

I've started buying baby things now - half price toiletries (I've tried to buy in bulk to avoid having too much to buy while I'm not working) and some essentials from Asda and Mothercare. Uncle Nick's mummy gave us some bits and bobs too, which was sweet of her. I've got an extensive list and baby budget and we're slowly ticking things off.

We'll be making a start (honestly!) on clearing the nursery this weekend so I can start buying the bigger things. We've bought some paint samples so I might have a play once we've cleared.

I really need to call Sarah (the hypnotherapist who helped me get pregnant in the first place) to book my hypnobirthing.

Phew! Reckon that's it... I'm bound to have forgotten something - I think you've stolen my brain.

Love you little one xx

28 week Ante Natal appointment

Today, Daddy and I visited Birmingham Women's Hospital for my 28 week Ante Natal appointment and the follow up for our heart investigations.

I didn't realise how anxious I was until I couldn't sleep last night. This meant I was a tired, anxious and grumpy mummy to be this morning. The appointment was at 9.30am but we waited quite a long time to be seen by the registrar. She asked how I was, checked your heartbeat and measured my bump. All fine. Next the chat about our results. Yours were in my file - clean bill of health. Mine? Not there. Echo almost a fortnight ago, report was supposed to be sent straight to maternity but no. No report. So we waited for the report to be faxed across. I had my bloods taken in the meantime but we mainly just waited.

Eventually, we were called back through and we went through my results. The report shows that my heart is functioning normally but there's a question mark over one of the valves. Presumably, the valve that's causing the murmur... She wasn't keen on the thought of me having a home birth but seemed to think the birth centre and a normal vaginal (TMI?!) delivery at term was feasible. To be on the safe side, I need to see a cardio consultant and then come back to the ante natal clinic for another follow up. I did get my Health in Pregnancy form and the form I needed for work - the forms I should have had the last time I saw the midwife.

I took my appointment booking in slip to the front desk. We queued. Birmingham Women's have a new system - I know this because there is a sign up by the area used to accommodate the queue caused by the new system. The receptionist was lovely but clearly close to a break down. She couldn't find the cardio clinic on the system. She called the consultant's secretary, who confirmed the December clinic hadn't been cancelled but advised it might not be showing on the system if it's fully booked. I need to be back at 32 weeks to have my follow up and I'm running out of weeks so the January clinic isn't an option. As she couldn't book me into the right clinic, she's booked me into the midwifery clinic with a note on the system and my notes to say I'm a cardio appointment. That's on 14 December. I just hope that's actually the day of the clinic.

This post is taking an age to write - it's a lengthly diatribe but you keep wriggling and kicking so I stop to stroke bump and talk to you. I may be here all night...

My follow up appointment is at 32 weeks. That's the 23 December...

Thank you Auntie Gill

Earlier this week, you got a beautiful handmade gift from a lovely lady at my work.


It's so fabulous and will keep you nice and snug and warm - you'll need it when we venture outside for walks if February and March next year are as chilly as they were this year.

Stresshead

No blog posts for agggggges and feel like I should have written a good few! I'll do a big catch up tomorrow after my ante natal appointment.

In the meantime, I appear to be quite a lot more concerned about the follow up appointment tomorrow than I realised and as a result, am all grumpy and worried and headachy.

You, however, seem to be a happy baby. Kicks and wriggles :) and a bump that's steadily getting bigger and bigger.

Love you precious xx

First NCT Ante Natal class

Tonight we attended our first Ante Natal class (Auntie Lora is our teacher). It was the second class but we missed the first one when we had our mini panic last week...

We were late. I had the osteopath and overran and then we got lost. Good start, eh?

It's quite hard to walk into a room full of people you don't know but we managed it and it wasn't as scary as I feared (I worry about group activities...) I was surprised at some of the ladies takes on labour and childbirth. There seemed to be a lot of pure fear and lack of knowledge - I quickly learnt that I take the knowledge I've gained from Granny, Auntie Lora and Auntie Rosie for granted.

I'm hoping I can find a likeminded lady or two to befriend. I think I've spotted a couple but I'll keep schtum for now, see how things progress in the coming weeks. The only thing that worries me is that you're due quite a lot later than the other ladies' babies - I think Auntie Lora is right and that just means they have somewhere to go just before they're due or with a new baby and we have some clued up friends when it's our turn!

I'll keep you posted. Daddy can't come to next week's cos he's away with work so I'll be on my tod...

Echocardiogram...

Had my echo on Saturday. Not really worth a post because I have to wait for the follow up to find out the results but worth noting that it's been done...

She did say nothing to worry about.

Roll on 25 November for the results...

Photo: 26+3 weeks

First osteopathy appointment

I saw the osteopath today. Her name is Karen and she was very nice, which is good - osteopathy doesn't involve many clothes.

We went through my medical history and then she examined me - I'm one of the most flexible pregnant women she'd seen apparently. She reconfirmed my SPD diagnosis and then set to work on what felt like everything between my knees and my boobs. Because of my hypermobility, a lot of my muscles are overworking to compensate for my overflexible ligaments. That's worsened by relaxin (one of the pregnancy hormones) making the ligaments even looser - and in turn, my muscles working even harder and spasming as a consequence.

My main problem areas? Hips (thigh muscles), lower back/pelvis (muscles in lower back that run to the front of the pelvis too), inner and upper inner thighs and the front of my pelvis (the muscles from my lower back and smaller muscles at the front of my pelvis). Ribcage, especially at the bottom and spinal column.

Karen can hopefully help me avoid crutches (or worse) and an overcomplicated birth. I probably need to see her quite frequently but if it means I continue to enjoy my bump, we think it's worth it. She did say a waterbirth would really help with the SPD during birth so that's one thing that's firmly staying on my birthing plan!

25+4 weeks

Time is really flying now! Hence the distinct lack of posts (rubbish Mummy). Bump is growing nicely, no hiding it now!

So, we went away for my birthday to a beautiful place in Wales called Port Eynon. We had a nice relaxing break with a beautiful sea view. Lots of good food with good company (Auntie Kerry, Uncle Mark, Auntie Hannah and Uncle John). You refused to kick anyone but me and Daddy :)

When we got home, I had a lovely treatment courtesy of Nanna at Ardencote Manor. The therapist started off by massaging my back before laying my on my back (with support so I wasn't too flat) to massage and exfoliate my feet, massage my bump, give me a facial, massage my scalp, neck and shoulders and my hands. Phew! Completely pampered.

I chased up my echocardiogram too - they've received my referral and after a little bit of persuasion, they've booked my appointment for 13 November (I've even had the letter). My follow up will be done at my 28 week appointment at the Ante Natal clinic, scheduled for 25 November.

You've been well behaved on the whole. Lots of reassuring kicks and wriggles (although a few less aimed at my cervix and my bladder would be appreciated) and even some kicks big enough to make my bump move.

My eating habits are pretty normal. Still hooked on ham and bacon but other than that, nothing unusual. I did have a sudden need for strawberry laces the other day...

I'm a bit prone to fits of crying or laughing (sometimes both) and I'm also often lacking in patience and quite snappy (although some would say that's nothing to do with pregnancy)... I've started getting tired now but not ridiculously so. I could blame that on the disturbed sleep as much as the baby growing.

My pelvis is very, very sore. Lower back pain has grown to lower back, hips, pubic bone and upper inner thigh. Moving can be quite difficult but I'm persevering with trying to strengthen my pelvic muscles. We bought a pregnancy ball to help which I haven't used yet but will soon. Also been recommended an osteopath by Auntie Lora (I'll start writing that like I've always spelt it so it's not so confusing) who I'm planning on seeing. In fact, I had booked to see her today but it didn't go to plan.

Just before I left work, I popped to the toilet to discover I'd lost quite a lot of fluid. Enough to have soaked through to trousers. It was definitely water-like, I assume colourless from wiping me and didn't smell of anything in particular. TMI but midwives ask!! You can imagine, I had a bit of a panic. I got myself to the car and called Auntie Lora, who was calm and reassuring and logical but recommended I called the midwife. I called Jacqui who said, quite bluntly, that it sounded like my waters had broken and to call the delivery suite at Birmingham Women's. This didn't help with the worry so by the time I called Daddy, I was in a bit of a flap. As your Daddy is the best Daddy ever, he made sure I was going home to call the hospital and left work to meet me at home. He also called to cancel my osteopath appointment.

The midwife on duty in the triage part of the delivery suite was very calm and reassuring but insisted I come in to get checked out. I called Daddy and then quickly listened to you on the doppler, not that you'd been particularly quiet today anyway. After I made sure you were okay, I called Auntie Lora who was very calming and called Auntie Rosie while I called Granny. By the time Daddy had collected me and we'd braved the traffic to get to the hospital, I'd spoken to Auntie Rosie and Granny too.

The midwife checked my blood pressure, urine, listened to you and inspected my underwear. Then we had to wait for the doctor. She went through my medical history and diagnosed me with SPD (my sisters both had this to varying degrees and I'm the most hypermobile so I expected it). Then she felt my tummy (you were head down) and forewarned me that she'd need to do an internal. I'll spare you the gory details - she checked my cervix (closed) and swabbed for amniotic fluid. I had twenty minutes to wait for the results.

An hour and twenty minutes later, we were told that the results were negative - it was possible that I'd had a small leak but not to worry. To take it a bit easy and to monitor closely any fluid loss.

By the time we left the hospital, the last thing I fancied was an ante natal class so I called Auntie Lora with the good news and to let her know we'd be missing our first class. She's going to do a catch up with us on Friday night. Obviously, I also called Auntie Rosie and Granny; everyone was relieved to hear that you're staying put for a while longer.

Auntie Kerry has subsequently sent me to bed (comfiest place with my sore pelvis) and I think I might be sensible and stay put tomorrow too...

Present from Daddy...

You were a lucky baby today, Daddy and I found you a babygro that we loved and Daddy insisted he buy it for you:



You will have heard AC/DC in the car when I drive to and from work.

We expect you to be a fan too little one :)

Wasn't just me who got presents...

Auntie Laura sent my presents through the post and they arrived today. Most of them were for me but one is quite clearly intended for you...



They're so cute. Auntie Laura is spoiling you already!

First kick for Daddy

We were having a sneaky birthday listen on the doppler and you kicked hard enough for Daddy to feel you through the doppler twice! We gave up listening so Daddy could concentrate on feeling you kick and you've kicked him a few times since. He's a very happy man, he's been waiting patiently to feel you for weeks.

24 weeks

Today, I was supposed to have our follow up appointment about the effects of my murmur on the pregnancy. Your appointment went swimmingly but after no sight of an appointment for me, I thought I best call and move the follow up appointment.

It took several phonecalls to several members of hospital staff, the last (and most helpful) of whom was the Consultant's secretary. She eventually managed to discover that the reason I hadn't had my appointment was because cardiology had never received my referral. She's sorted it though and they've confirmed they've received it. I need to give them a call early next week to see when they can fit me in. I'd rather it was closer to 28 weeks anyway, that way we can see how my heart does under the pressure of maximum blood volume. Must be the most accurate picture that way?

Other than that, what can I tell you? You're a wriggly little thing, mainly when I'm quiet or eating. Daddy hasn't felt you yet but we're hoping it won't be long now.

I'm still hooked on ham sandwiches for lunch... Pear and apple based things usually very successful too.

I have started a list of things we need to buy for your arrival (I'm trying to be sensible) and we even started looking at camcorders today so the more distant relatives don't miss anything.

My pelvis and back can get quite sore at times - walking seems to make it worse. Ribs too - assume that's all the stretching. Ankles and feet got puffy this afternoon after a few hours of shopping :)

We're away this weekend for some Welsh sea air in honour of my birthday. Beach walks and good food. Nice and relaxing for my lovely bump and for Mummy and Daddy (not to mention Auntie Kerry, Uncle Mark, Auntie Hannah and Uncle John).

Happy Birthday to Mummy

24 weeks pregnant and my 30th birthday. We're having some time off work and a weekend by the sea to celebrate - you might be a bit giggly on Saturday as I plan on attempting a glass of Champagne before dinner!

Today though, some shopping and lunch and maybe a virgin cocktail.

I'll do a proper post a bit later - love you precious xx

Midwife 23+4 weeks

This afternoon, I saw Jacqui - the community midwife based at my GP's surgery. She took my blood pressure (normal), tested my urine (normal) and listened to your heartbeat (lovely and strong, nice and healthy). She always manages to get some gel on my clothes, but hearing you is totally worth it.

I told her that my pelvis grinds at the back when I walk and that it's been causing me quite a lot of lower back pain. I need to be referred through Birmingham Women's to a physio for that but that she can get me an apt if I can't wait til I see them next (28 weeks). I'll see them before that anyway for my follow up apt after our heart investigations so I told her not to worry for now, I'll see how it goes. She was surprised that I had an apt at the hospital before 28 weeks so I explained about the heart checks.

I told Jacqui I wanted a homebirth and asked if it would be her team or Birmingham Women's who would look after me. She said it would be her team but that she really wouldn't recommend I have a homebirth with a heart murmur. I explained that my murmur was long standing and functional and that it had never been a problem. She said that it was still too high a risk - the increased blood volume would increase the stress on my heart anyway - not to mention the stresses of labour. Essentially, I could go from fine to the exact opposite in no time at all and I'd be an ambulance journey away from the help that could save my life - or yours, or both. She thinks there's a decent chance I won't be allowed to use the birthing unit; I may stay under consultant care for the duration. I explained that I was still waiting for my echo apt and I was hopeful to return to midwife care after the results. She apologised for being so blunt with me (she was having a bad day by all accounts) but, although I was unhappy with her answer, I appreciated her honesty.

I left the surgery more than a little disappointed - I've always imagined having my babies at home and it always seemed such an easy decision once I fell pregnant with you. That said, I wouldn't put either of our lives at risk (not that your Daddy would give me much choice if I tried to put my foot down) so if hospital is the safest option then I'll just have to make the best of it.

I spoke to Daddy, Granny and Auntie Laura (my sister that is...) and we think minimal intervention (therefore less stress on me, you and my heart) is best so if homebirth really isn't an option then I'll aim for the birthing unit. That way, we're next door to consultants who can help if we need it but I can still be left to make the birth as natural as possible if we don't need anything. If we don't need any help and everything goes as it should, then hopefully any baby brothers or sisters in the future can be born at home.

Photo: 23+2 weeks

Thank you Auntie Laura

Today Daddy collected a parcel from the Post Office. Surprise parcels are always exciting but with my birthday coming up next week, I just assumed it was an enthusiastic or particularly organised friend or relative.

When Daddy collected it, he text me to tell me the package had come all the way from Hemel Hempstead so I asked Auntie Laura if I should hold off opening it until my birthday. She said I could open it today and she never bends the birthday rules so I suspected it might be for you and it was - look!







It's a beautifully soft comforter and elephant toy - you're going to love it! Thank you very much Auntie Laura and Uncle Nigel xx

22+5 weeks

I have heartburn really bad at the moment. Seems to be from mid-late afternoon until bedtime and it's really rubbish. Doesn't seem to matter what I eat or drink :(

You're kicking more and more - at least, I'm feeling it more and more often. It'll only be a matter of time before Daddy can feel you too - he's been concentrating very hard on bump and you seem to be trying to reach him with your kicks.

Still pork biased. Sandwiches preferably bacon (breakfast) or ham (lunch). Snacking on clementines, bananas and trying to resist the sweet cravings... Not always very successful there...

We went to see Daddy's family in Wales this weekend. On Friday, Nanna listened to your heartbeat and your kicks with our doppler - she was very excited to hear you. On Saturday, we went pram test driving with Nanna. Having finally found a stockist with an UppaBaby Vista that we could have a play with, I think we've decided it's the pushchair for us. Nice and sturdy, not too heavy or bulky, not too expensive. We're going to get you a Pebble car seat too - all in black we think (seeing as we don't know if you're a boy or a girl yet). We'll brighten it all up with colours when you arrive. Uncle Rhys and Auntie Jo were pleased to see bump too - you'll be going to their wedding when you arrive but you'll only be a few weeks old so I think we'll restrict your involvement to a special babygro. We'll stay in the hotel so you and I can nap when we need to :)

We saw your Great Gran on Sunday for a few hours. She's bought you some babygros and bodysuits, a few blankets and a few other odds and bits. Great Gran and Grandad are buying your cot too - we just need to get the room ready for it!

I got sucked into a sale today and treated you to a few developmental toys - and a very cool Elmer the Elephant cuddly toy. I think they'll come in handy when we're trying to keep you amused...

I did a pilates for pregnancy DVD for the first time this evening - hopefully it'll help me keep some control over my pelvis and my back and even help me in labour. The plan is to do it two or three times a week.

I'm also trying to find a pregnancy massage to treat myself and try and release the tension in my back.

I need to remember to ask Daddy to take a bump photo this week - my bump is quite pronounced now :) Definitely need to start doing the photos weekly... I can't even blame my baby brain cos Daddy forgets too!

Love you little one xx

Fetal Medicine Department

Today, Daddy and I attended an appointment at the Fetal Medicine Department at Birmingham Women's hospital (after we collected the second piece of nursery furniture).

We had a bit of a wait (not much fun with a full bladder) but we've gotten used to that now!

The consultant who saw us reassured us from the start - even before I got my bump out. The biggest risk for babies inheriting heart defects is with holes in the heart at birth, especially if serious enough to need intervention. I didn't have a hole in my heart and certainly no intervention (my murmur is functional).

She checked all of you, taking pictures and measurements throughout - although she did tell you off a couple of times for wriggling while she tried to get a decent shot or measurement. Daddy told her we were keeping your gender a surprise so she asked us to look away from the screen at one point, so we didn't see anything that would give the game away. She paid special attention to your heart (seeing as that was the worry) but gave you a glowing report - 10/10! We even got a couple of pictures (and we didn't have to pay for them!)






Daddy showed the photos off to one of the nurses while the consultant wrote up our report - she decided you have his nose :) and was generally very complimentary. I think he even showed her the previous photos on his phone...

Our report was received from the consultant along with the reassurance that everything they could check was absolutely fine. I subsequently analysed the report on the way home and you are perfect - which came as little surprise to the faithful family members and close friends, who had already made that assumption.

Lots of kicks this evening so we're hoping Daddy will feel you soon. He does sit patiently for hours with hand(s) on bump, just in case.

We love you little one xx

Second item of nursery furniture...

Having successfully won an eBay auction last week, Daddy and I went to Stoke on Trent today to collect the second piece of furniture for your nursery (the first being the toy box Auntie Kerry and Uncle Mark bought you weeks ago). I'm not sure how to describe it - it has drawers and a cupboard with shelves... Anyway, I liked the shape and I'm going to have a play to make it ours so it should (fingers crossed) be beautiful by the time you arrive.


It looks a bit like a filing cabinet in that picture, with any luck it won't when I'm finished with it!!

Photo: 21+2 weeks

When I got up, my bump looked like this:



And then you moved...

Oooh!

I just felt you kick my hand for the first time! It was amazing. Daddy has been trying to make you do it again (mainly via the medium of poking and prodding my bump) but you're stubborn and clearly are not prepared to perform on demand just yet.

You've been a very wriggly baby today. Moving my bump around and all sorts. Some pressure on my cervix earlier which freaked me out quite a bit but it seems to have gone again so I assume that was just you having a rest low down... You do quite like to lean on my bladder and they're not a million miles apart, especially for a growing baby, so not a huge surprise I guess :)

Two out of three ain't bad?

I've had two appointment dates come through. Your fetal scan (that's to check your heart is taking after Daddy and not Mummy) and our follow up appointment with the Ante Natal Consultant. Frustratingly, no appointment for my echo yet - fingers crossed it comes through for a date before the follow up appointment, else I'll have to move things around.

So that's your scan on 12 October (that's this Tuesday) and our follow up for 28 October (my birthday!).

Love you little one xx

20 week Ante Natal appointment

Today, I took my cold to Birmingham Women's hospital with Daddy for our 20 week appointment.

First half of the appointment was the scan. This is the detailed one so we got to watch as the sonographer examined you from head to toe, measuring brain, head, torso, arm and leg bones and even taking cross sectional images to check heart, kidneys and stomach. All perfect. When she was looking at your heart, I asked if she could see heart murmurs etc at this stage. She can't apparently but as it came out following the question that I have a murmur (always been on my notes btw), she said she'd schedule me for a foetal echo to check you over. I was quite pleased to hear this - I want a home birth so as much information as we can find out pre birth, the better as far as I'm concerned. We left happy bunnies with a lovely photo:



Next, my ante natal appointment. First, blood pressure, weight and urine sample. No dramas. Then a wait for the midwife. Quite a big wait... It turned out we weren't waiting for a midwife, but for a consultant. I've been referred because of my murmur; they just want to double check my heart is coping with the "stresses of pregnancy" so I need to be under a consultant (rather than a midwife) until I've been checked.

In short, that's an ECG and an Echo for me and an Echo for you - followed by a follow up appointment with the consultant. Fingers crossed all is absolutely fine and I can go back to midwife care (and home birth). Daddy is a bit worried but it's much better to know now rather than later so despite being frustrated at the additional appointments, we're pleased they're checking everything out.

You've been a wriggly baby most of today. It makes me a very smiley lady.

19+5 weeks

I have a big fat cold and am feeling very sorry for myself. I'm not very good at being ill but am even worse when medication is limited so am in bed and grumpy. Daddy is looking after me :)

The cold has caused (from the nose blowing I assume) three nosebleeds in the past 12 hours.

Anyway, an update. This week, marmite. Marmite and cheese. So that's B vitamins and calcium... I thought I was desperate for lager so I asked Daddy to make me a shandy with a little bit of beer. I couldn't drink it - it tasted like strong continental beer to me (it tasted like lemonade to Daddy). Pelvis and lower back are still sore so I'm researching yoga and pilates.

Last week, you made Daddy's year (well, so far, I'm sure the 20 week scan will knock it off the top spot on Thursday). I was doing lots of moving around upstairs and felt a funny sensation in my tummy. You've been moving around more and more so I knew it was you, but it felt bigger. I watched my tummy in the mirror and you were moving enough to move my bump around! You were still doing it by the time I got downstairs to Daddy so he got to watch and feel. He was very excited.

Since then you've prodded and poked and done somersaults. It's a lovely feeling (even when you poke me hard!) - not regular yet but often enough to tell me you're still there and you're doing okay. The Doppler comes out every now and again so we can have a listen. Your heartbeat seems to be 156bpm.

On Friday, we went to Auntie Laura's (I need to think of a way to differentiate those, maybe you'll think of a way when you're here) for her 30th birthday party. Everyone made a fuss of my bump so that took the edge off not being able to join in with the champagne. Despite thinking I'd be ready for bed at 10.30pm we didn't leave until gone 1am! I was quite proud of myself, although we paid for it the next day. Tired Mummy (and Daddy for that matter). Still managed a big walk in the afternoon.

I meant to get Daddy to take another bump photo but we forgot so we'll do one at 20 weeks. I really must set myself reminders so we do them weekly!

When we were at Granny's, we had a play about with Auntie Rosie's Quinny Zapp pushchair. This led to much pushchair research for me so we're going to go to Mothercare and have a few test drives.

Think that's as much as my cold riddled brain can remember.

Love you, little one x

Photo: 18+2 weeks

18+4 weeks

We took a photo on Saturday but I haven't downloaded it yet - will get it up asap and then endeavour to do a weekly one. Auntie Hannah sent me a link to a blog with the most wonderful bump pictures and I really need to remember to do it more often!

Feeling much better now I've finished the antibiotics. Some lower back and pelvic pain but other than that, I'm feeling pretty good.

People have started commenting on my bump so it must have popped out a bit. Certainly the last couple of times we've listened to your heartbeat, it's been very loud and doesn't fade in and out as often so you must be growing and slowly running out of room to hide!

Speaking of running out of room, your movements seem to be becoming more frequent - or at least, more noticeable. Pokes and somersaults, nothing too pronounced but definitely there and more than butterfly kisses.

Nothing of note food-wise I don't think. Can eat baked beans again, still hooked on ham sandwiches but peanut butter has replaced the tuna. Gone right off the thought of pork steaks (much to Daddy's disgust, he bought a bumper pack last week). Still like hazelnut yogurts.

I'm much more hormonal this week; teary and sensitive. Everything feels like a personal attack so if it's affected anyone reading this - I'm really sorry!

Can't quite believe it's the 20 week scan next week - that's halfway through, how did that happen?!

Ante Natal classes confirmed and start on 8 November. Better start thinking about your nursery too...

17+6 weeks

Bump is feeling harder and more, er, bump like today.

My tummy muscles feel taught and a little overworked but it made Daddy very happy - it feels like a proper bump! He covered it in kisses but it made me giggle too hard so he had to stop :)

*sad face*

On Sunday, I noticed a burny, stingy pressure in my lower abdomen. Thinking I'd caught a UTI, I booked an appointment with the Dr on Monday.

I eventually got in to see her (one missed appointment and one huge wait in the emergency surgery slot later) and she worked out (judging by my jump at her touching my back) that my backache was a kidney infection. Oops.

I'm two days into my antibiotics and the pain in my abdomen has gone. I'm a bit achey still but I've got another three days to go so I'm sure I'll be all better by the weekend :)

Ow!

General pelvic and back achiness and stabby feeling at the very front of my pelvic bone. Assume you're having a growth spurt...

Worry

At work yesterday morning, I noticed more spotting - much the same as the spotting I had a fortnight before.

After a short conversation with Daddy and long conversation with Auntie Laura, I called Jacqui (the midwife) to see what she thought. As it's not heavy and there's no unusual cramping or pain, she didn't think there was much to worry about but said she could come to the house for a listen. So off I went for lunch to see Molly dog and wait for Jacqui.

A bit of a wait later, Jacqui arrived and had a listen. Your heartbeat clear and strong. She stressed that any increase in the bleeding should be referred to GP and heavy bleeds to A&E but that she didn't see the need for an ultrasound as she'd checked the heartbeat successfully. She did add that if the spotting continued or I was still concerned on Monday, I could come to clinic for another listen and she'd call to see if the hospital wanted to do an ultrasound just to be on the safe side. She stressed a few times that Dr Cameron specified that ladies with bleeds, no matter how slight, should refrain from work. After she left, I called a few colleagues to explain I wouldn't be in for the rest of the afternoon and I stayed on the sofa.

As I'm a worrier, Daddy and I listened to your heartbeat again before we went to sleep and again this morning (my pelvis was sore which got me worrying).

This weekend will be spent mostly taking things easy :)

Midwife appointment, 16 weeks

Today I had my first appointment with the midwife - other than my booking in appointment all those weeks ago. The student midwife who did my booking in, Karly, was with Jacqui - the midwife based at our surgery.

First they took my blood pressure - no worries there. Then she listened to your heartbeat. Karly could find it but it was only feint and kept moving away. Jacqui tried and found a very clear, very strong heartbeat - so lovely! Next up, urine sample and a blood test - bloods are for Down's syndrome testing. Urine fine, bloods sent for testing - we're likely to only hear if you have a high risk of Down's but we can ask for the results when we go in for our scan if we want confirmation.

I'm booked in with Jacqui again for four weeks after my 20 week scan - that's 25 October (three days before I turn 30).

16+4 weeks

I've spoken to the NCT and we have our places reserved on an Ante Natal course, starting in November. It's with Auntie Laura! It's a bit early but it'll give me eight weeks to have additional classes if I want to - Auntie Laura's next class finishes two weeks before I'm due so a bit close for comfort. Fingers crossed some of the ladies on the course are February due dates :)

Sickness has almost entirely gone now -unless I manage a decent lie in and awake up mega hungry or forget to eat (sorry baby, I do try but sometimes I forget I'm supposed to eat every few hours).

Back pain is bothering me - back and pelvis and hips to be precise. Had a horrible evening last Saturday when my hips were playing up. Rubbish! Thank goodness for my maternity pillow :) If it carries on or gets much worse, I'll have a word with the midwife or see my chiropractor.

Still hooked on ham sandwiches, alternated with tuna and sweetcorn - usually I have to change sandwich fillings frequently, I get bored too quick! Also loving fresh pineapple, I could get through a whole one in one sitting (I do ration myself). Hazelnut yoghurts are a favourite too and I have to have an organic hazelnut cereal bar before I get out of bed, its the only thing I can stomach before I'm properly awake. Ooh and apple and pear squash :)

I actually had a nice chat with my boss today about work and maternity leave. Just need to sit down with Daddy and see how long we can afford for me to have on maternity leave.

Bump is coming along nicely. I'll try and get a new photo up ASAP.

Photo: 15+2 weeks

Photo: 13+2 weeks

I forgot to say!

Auntie Laura had this given to her and she's passed it on to me - it was still in the original wrapping!



It's really helping me wake up less and eases my back pain when I'm in bed.

Thank you Auntie Laura!

Scary day

Yesterday was a bit of a stressful day for this Mummy and Daddy to be. In the morning, I had a repeat blood test at the hospital. The letter just said that I needed a repeat blood test so I was a little apprehensive - although Auntie Laura had been very reassuring.

We arrived at Birmingham Women's at our allocated time (Daddy came with me) and had to take a number to be seen. So we waited half an hour (thank goodness for my fig roll stash) and were greeted by the phlebotomist, who asked what bloods I needed repeating. We didn't know and the letter said nahtheeng so off she went to find a midwife.

Twenty minutes later, she came back. All my tests came back absolutely fine but they couldn't test for sickle cell because they didn't have the form. They didn't have the right form. A form that I'd completed with the student midwife when she took the first set of bloods. Frustrating but more relieving that it was so simple a fix.

After Daddy got home from work, I popped to the toilet to discover I'd been bleeding. Not 'fresh' but scary nonetheless. We went straight to Solihull A&E and were seen very quickly - only one problem, no gynae or maternity services at Solihull. Cue many calls from the nurse looking after me (who took more bloods, blood pressure and tested urine) to Heartlands who are the closest hospital with a Women's Unit. She got me a referral and off we went.

We found the Unit and were seated outside the most public consultation room ever for an hour. The lady before us was in a lot of pain; I was grateful that my bleed wasn't accompanied by cramping. We were very grateful that I carry so many snacks in my handbag, we hadn't had any dinner - thank goodness my sickness is so much better.

Eventually, we were shown downstairs to the delivery suite for an ultrasound. You appeared on the screen and had a wiggle but were generally quite content to be relatively still - I guess 11.30pm was quite late enough for foetuses. Your heartbeat was nice and strong, placenta was fine. All as it should be. Such a relief!

After they'd checked me over upstairs just to be sure (the bleeding had stopped by then), we were sent on our way.

I was very glad to be in bed that night, safe in the knowledge that all was okay and you were safe and sound.

Baby's first movements?

Wednesday night, I was curled up on the sofa and felt a definitely fluttering very low down. Subtle like butterfly kisses but not like anything I'd felt before.

I quickly text Daddy and Auntie Laura - Daddy to tell him and Auntie Laura to check. Auntie Laura thinks she felt Daniel (her first) around 15 weeks :)

I've felt you a few times since and it makes me and Daddy very smiley to imagine what acrobatics you're doing inside me.

To baby, 160810

Last night, we listened to your heartbeat before we went to sleep. We just lay in bed grinning at each other, listening. It was the clearest we've heard it and nice and easy to find.

Grow strong little one. We love you.

Mummy and Daddy xxx

Lazy lady

I have two blog posts to post here, both late. One from Saturday (bump photo) and one that I should have posted Monday. I'm going to post Monday's in a minute - albeit on Wednesday - and I'll do both bump pictures when I've taken the second on Saturday morning. Phew!

On a positive note, sickness is much more manageable. Still prone if I forget to eat and still not very good at fancying food but I'm hoping there will be an improvement across the board soon enough.

My little bump is quite noticeable, but still small. Daddy let me treat myself to a few Isabella Oliver items at the weekend and I can't wait to have a bigger bump to fill them with :o)

Auntie Kerry has found the first piece of furniture for me to renovate - a toy box. The perfect place to start to get my hand in before I source a chest of drawers or two. I might have a go at dismantling shelves this weekend so I feel like we've made a start!

13 weeks

The sickness doesn't seem to be so bad so I'm hoping that particular symptom is on it's way out. Mood swings are apparently common - I go from shouting to laughing to crying quite easily... I'm still very tired but find it harder to nap so maybe that one is disappearing too :)

I'm very into ham sandwiches now, I have two a day (one before I leave work and one before bed). I'm also still loving the tuna and sweetcorn sandwiches but I can only really have one a day with limited tuna so thank God for ham!

I can still drink and enjoy tea but my current hot drink of choice is skinny hot chocolate. Daddy is grateful that he doesn't have to rush to Starbucks every time now, I like homemade with Green and Blacks too :o) Coffee is okay but only with milk. Black coffee does not taste nice at all... Just as well everyone at work knows, I used to only drink black coffee at work (not always caffeinated) so it would have been a dead giveaway.

I have a little bump now and have noticed my hand is never far away from you. Daddy will take a photo tomorrow so we can start a bump book - I can't believe we haven't taken any before now so you can see what I looked like before. Nevermind.

I did have a hormonal moment today when I panicked that all wasn't okay (no symptoms I might add) so I used the Doppler when I came home. I was upset that I couldn't find your heartbeat, although I know it's still quite early. Daddy came home and listened and it turns out I'd heard you all along, I'd just thought it was me (Daddy listened to you and me simultaneously so he knew). Silly Mummy! I'm happy again now.

Your first present...

Auntie Kerry has bought you your first present and it's really lovely, look!









She's made sure it's suitable for you whether you're a little girl or a little boy - isn't she clever! She must love you very much already xx

Kisses for the baby

From your cousins, Amelie Boo and India. They love you already, look! :o)

Spreading the news

On Saturday, I spoke to India and Boo (two of the cousins to be) to tell them our news. Auntie Rosie put me on loudspeaker and the response to "I'm going to have a baby" was silent, wide eyed and open mouthed! This was followed by giggles and a few excited yays - the girls were excited to hear Lily Allen was having a baby so to find out Auntie Lizzie was too was even better.

Boo thinks you will be a little boy (as does Auntie Kerry). Daddy thinks you're a little girl but we don't mind either way so long as we have a healthy little one with ten fingers and ten toes.

After I got off the phone, Auntie Rosie showed the girls your photo. It took a little explaining but Boo now understands how you're tiny at the moment (to fit into my tummy). She also knows how you'll come out... That's just REALLY funny!  Not so funny for Mummy...

On Sunday, we had lunch with Daddy's family so now Grandad and Great Gran know our exciting news. I think it came as a bit of a surprise but we had a text from Grandad enthusing later that day when it had had time to sink in.

By Sunday night, we'd gone public on Twitter and Facebook too so I think it's safe to say pretty much everyone knows now.

It's lovely to have so many people so excited for us and excited to meet you :o)

First scan...

This morning, we set off to Birmingham Women's Hospital to have our first antenatal appointment (and first scan).

We waited an age to be seen but eventually we were called through to the scan. To have a picture, we had to pay £5 in pound coins, so Daddy had to go and buy some chewing gum for change but he was as quick as he could be. You appeared on screen immediately; we could even see your hands and feet!

By my calculations, I'm 11 weeks today but the sonographer says 12 weeks from the crown to rump measurement. You were very wriggly and wouldn't let the lady see the normal picture view (stubborn little thing) but eventually we managed to get a picture (albeit slightly from the back so no profile):



One thing made me a bit sad, you don't get to hear the heartbeat but our sonographer reassured us that what they see is more important and that the heartbeat is very strong.

Baby, it's so lovely to have seen you - we are the smiliest people ever I think.

Next, I was measured and weighed and then sent to see the midwife. I had a student midwife who was very sweet, if a little nervous. I had a lot of blood taken and, once we'd booked our next scan, we were sent on our way.

We've shown off your photo and everyone is very excited. Off to Wales this weekend to tell Grandad and Great Gran!

When I got home, I broke out the nearly new doppler and Mummy and Daddy heard your heartbeat for the first time. Lovely lovely lovely.

10 weeks

I was back in work last week, which essentially meant I did nothing but work, eat and sleep - with the occasional vomit thrown in for good measure. I'm doing better at not throwing up, so that's a turn up for the books. Nausea is a common theme but I'm hopeful that'll disappear soon enough. The nausea, the fatigue and the frequent urination. Fingers crossed eh?

I'm still struggling to find things I want to eat - but last week I discovered tuna and sweetcorn sandwiches are a favourite. Shame I have to limit my intake!

We took care of Auntie Rosie's littles this weekend. They were very well behaved but I learnt that early pregnancy and childcare makes for a very tired mummy to be.

We also had some exciting news about another one of your Aunties. (Younger) Auntie Laura is getting married! That's potentially three weddings in the first four months for you...

Speaking of exciting (and nervewracking for Mummy) news, our first scan is Thursday morning. We have our first antenatal appointment at 9am at Birmingham Women's Hospital. That's only three days away!

Daddy

Baby

You've got the best daddy ever. I've known he would be from the moment I fell for him, which was very shortly after I met him face to face for the first time. I didn't need it confirming but if I had had any doubts, they'd be quashed by just how amazingly wonderful he's been while I've felt so rotten the past few weeks.

He goes to the supermarket pretty much daily in an attempt to keep me eating.

He comes home at lunchtime when I haven't got the energy to make myself food but need to eat to stop being sick.

He goes downstairs when he's settled in bed cos I can't sleep before I eat *insert random food want here*

He kisses me when I've just been sick, even before I've brushed my teeth.

He puts up with my crazy mood swings; be it crying at a Morrisons advert (go figure) or shouting at him for no reason whatsoever.

He loves me through it all.

I am one lucky mummy to be and you are one lucky baby.

Daddy is one in a million and he's all ours.

Vile

So, for the past three days I've felt so wiped out and sick that I've barely left my pit. Coupled with that is a decent amount of hormonal weeping, so I'm a real bundle of fun.

I reached what I hope is an all time low this morning when I misjudged being sick (I thought I had more time) and projectile vomited at our bedroom wall. Being on my own, I also had to clear it up (after ten mins of being sick into the toilet). It also ruined my fella's surprise for me: I called Daddy to cry at him and he'd got the afternoon off so he'd be on his way home soon anyway. He wasn't going to tell me til he got here.

I was sick twice more before he got here but am now on my third slice of toast (having earlier ingested a bacon sandwich) and my second cuppa. Eating makes me feel nauseous but thus far (touching much wood) no additional vomiting.

Thank goodness for a new good book (Lisa Lynch's The C-Word). Kicked my self-pity into touch if nothing else. Incredible woman.

8 weeks gone

I am absolutely shattered this week. I'm still eating constantly to prevent being mega sick, just mega tired at the same time.

Told everyone at work on Friday, so I can be sick and flexible without the added worry of what people are thinking. Apparently my being pregnant doesn't stop my boss expecting me to work all the hours though, so I'm working on a presentation on Sunday. I'm working on how to tell him that the hours I was working pre-pregnancy aren't possible any longer...

We went to Mothercare for emergency maternity clothes today. Apparently, it turns out usually baggy jeans are no longer baggy?! Already?! Not a great choice but it'll do til I can do some Internet shopping :o)

New favourite things

Chocolate chip cookies (thank you Auntie Hannah for that suggestion!), raw carrot sticks and... roast chicken with quavers.

Seriously. Roast chicken and quavers together in a bowl after work. It's amazing.

7 weeks...

I'm doing better this week, provided I manage to eat seemingly constantly.

I really don't like baked beans anymore but other than that, nothing is really tasting wrong - yet I can be starving (and therefore be very sick) and think of nothing on Earth that I want to eat. Tea is still good :o)

I do smell EVERYTHING, through boxes and round corners. It's very odd, sometimes nice and sometimes sick making but always odd.

Had to undo my jeans after eating tonight, it's barely noticeable but we can feel a little swelling low down in my abdomen. I hold it (you) often :o)

First day back at work after the sickness started properly today. I just worked from home but I did okay. I'm a bit worried about being able to eat regularly enough to not be very sick in the office but I have a new starter in my team on Monday, so I'll have to give it my best shot.

It's really starting to sink in now and it's a lovely feeling.

Update

So, vomiting 7-8 times a day has moved on to vomiting 20+ times a day. Not nice. We went to our out of hours surgery (the Badger Clinic) Wednesday night and discovered that I was dehydrated enough to be burning my fat stores and retaining water but not enough to be put on a drip. The GP on duty suggested that I try and deal with it naturally - that is, try and put up with it. So we left with a sick bowl that looked like a small hat (yes, Daddy tried it on to make me laugh) and not much else.



Thursday morning, the midwife returned Daddy's call from the Wednesday night (he called her before NHS Direct) and stressed the importance of seeing our own GP. She wasn't happy at all about my being sick pretty much constantly - the way she saw it, I may not need IV fluids now but I would do if I carried on in the same vein. So Thursday afternoon, I saw Dr O'Gorman who shared the midwife's concerns and injected me with an anti emetic, prescribed pills and signed me off work for a week.

On Friday, Daddy spoke to my boss and his boss about my current, erm, condition. His boss was much more enthusiastic but then his boss doesn't lose an employee for up to a year... I took my new pills, one three times a day. By pill number three, I worked out I was being sick considerably less but also losing the strength in my extremities. Not fun.

This morning, Saturday, I decided no more pills. Not the ones from Thursday anyway. As yet, today has been a good day. Poached eggs on toast are very successful - if only I could do them on my own...

A little moment to mention how fabulous my sisters and my mum has been during the excessive sickness. Very thankful for such wonderful friends and family - and a Daddy to be who regularly goes out to fulfil my every whim. Why oh why don't we have shares with our local supermarket chain?!

:o(

So very sick. Goodness knows how much poor Daddy has spent on emergency trips to find possible 'cures'. Auntie Rosie is full of suggestions because she was very ill with her babies too.

Auntie Laura says that I just need to go to bed and let my body concentrate on baby making :) so in bed I am. I hate having the time off work but with no energy and vomiting a minimum of seven-eight times a day, I have little choice.

So between vomiting I cry, I assume from a combination of hormones and frustration.

Bleurgh.

Booking in...

This morning, the student midwife called about my booking in appointment. I was expecting a bit more than ten mins notice - I was in Wales!

Not a problem, we left Wales at 2.30pm and saw Karly Beasley, student midwife, at 4.15pm.

My notes are all completed and I have pamphlets about everything I could possibly imagine. Sorted.

My antenatal appointment has come through too, 5 August at 9am.

Coupled with the seemingly ever present nausea, it's finally sinking in :o)

Nanna

Yesterday, we drove from Granny's in Sawbridgeworth to Daddy's mum's in Caerleon. Daddy wanted to tell her our news and we wanted to do it in person. Needless to say, she's absolutely thrilled - smiling like the proverbial Cheshire cat, exactly as we'd hoped. She has also let us know she would like to be known as Nanna to her first and all subsequent grandchildren.

This is excellent news. My mum is already established as Granny with her other five grandchildren so I was a little concerned but fear not!

She can't wait to be able to tell people :o)

Cute

Today Daddy gave me a kiss and said he loved me before he left for work and then did the same to my belly.

Lovely.

Week 5

Two days into week five and I'm feeling nauseous pretty much all of the time. I have discovered that I can use cheese and whole wheat crackers and fizzy water to alleviate the symptoms a little but I might have to get used to the feeling for a while. The only thing that makes me uber sick is brushing my teeth - which I kinda have to do...

I have sent Daddy on the first mission for supplies; he got me stuff for today's anti sick attempt.

Oh and I'm hungry almost all the time but most of the time, I can't work out what I want to eat! Useful!

Bleurgh

Because I said yesterday evening I wasn't experiencing any major symptoms, this evening I feel sick as a sick thing and had a random weepy moment when I got home from work. Rubbish!

On a nice note, I met my community midwife today. The plan was to pop in for a sample pot (my surgery doesn't believe you're pregnant when you say you are so you have to pee in a pot for the hospital to test) but the midwife was in and asked to see me. I have my exemption application form, I've been booked in with Birmingham Women's and the midwife and I have a coupon information book thingy. Oh and I was 20mins late back from lunch. Oh! And I should have an appointment with her trainee on Sunday and then I have an appointment with her again at 16 weeks - I have a date but no time. I did ask but I still don't seem to have the time. I'll worry about that closer to the time :o)

I also have due date number two - 25 February 2011.

Four weeks and counting...

18 months of trying and it's finally happened: our first baby is on its way.  This blog will serve as my journal, some posts so I remember and some soppiness dedicated to our little one. 

We found out I was pregnant on Monday 14 June 2010 (the day my period was due).  I'm usually regular but I don't think I was actually expecting it to say 'pregnant' - I didn't even tell Daddy I was taking the test.  As soon as the test said pregnant I called him (read hollered) and he was up the stairs before the conception indicator thingy popped up to say 1-2 weeks (that's from conception, so 3-4 weeks preganant).  3-4 weeks fits in with my dates nicely and it also explains why I was a bit teary when AC\DC and Aerosmith came out at Download... We found out just before a week in Croyde Bay so plenty of time to get used to the idea and rest.  Lovely. 

I'm not sure it's sunk in just yet (even though I've taken four pregnancy tests since and they've all been positive) but my tummy is still getting lots of attention from me and from Daddy.  Today's pregnancy test (Sunday 20 June) tells me 3+ weeks from conception (5+ weeks pregnant), which is quite clever in less than a week. 

It's so early, we're keeping it to ourselves - of course, that means I've told Granny and Papa, Auntie Rosie, Auntie Laura, Auntie Kerry and Auntie Hannah.  Everyone is very excited and keeping everything crossed. 

Nothing overly exciting to report on the symptom front just yet: tired, sore boobs, overly sensitive nipples, I feel rubbish if I don't eat regularly and nauseous in the evenings.

I need to call the surgery tomorrow morning and get booked in.