Alpha fetoprotein test

So I just learned that my alpha fetoprotein test came back showing a slightly elevated risk for an open neural tube defect. My doctor said that the "normal" risk is 1 in 145 and that my risk is 1 in 140. He said that an amnio would, in his opinion, be overkill in response to these results-- and I probably would have declined anyway, since there is nothing that they can do to treat the baby in utero if it did have a defect. He recommended that I go to my ultrasound as scheduled (Oct 15) and then go back for a follow-up ultrasound 4 to 6 weeks later.

16 weeks: Time for maternity clothes

I had my 16 week appointment Tuesday and everything is good. I can't believe it's already time to book my 20 week ultrasound! It seems like I had to wait forever for the ultrasound last time; it's gone by in a flash this time around.

I finally had to pull out the maternity clothes yesterday. I only have 1 pair of shorts and 1 pair of capris that really still fit and I can't wear them every day! I guess I'm going to have to start watching my weight gain (ugh!)-- last time, I was pleasantly surprised that I didn't gain tons of weight, but this time I may have already put on 10 lbs and most of it in the last couple of weeks. I think I need to hit the gym while I still can-- but, man, is it hard to be motivated.

Nathan is getting a lot of practice in on his temper tantrums. They are still pretty low key, but they are becoming more frequent. He's learning all sorts of new words, like 'airplane' and 'bubbles.' His Aunt Laura has also successfully taught him 'booger'-- he has no idea what it means; I think that he thinks it's her name : )

How are you both doing? It must almost be time for your big ultrasound, Sarah!

Kid's say the darnedest things

One more Sunday story to share. Something you've read about in the funny stories in Parenting magazines, but be prepared, it'll happen to you someday too...

As you both know, David is very passionate about the election, so the whole family is pretty involved (did I mention opinionated too?!). Julian and David tend to watch Keith Olberman together and David hasn't been overly cautious when discussing the current administration, nor the candidates running for president.

So, at the same birthday lunch where I ate my body weight in food, my son decided to share his political views with the table - as well as the entire restaurant (which blessedly was rather empty) - by declaring in a loud voice, "Bush is Dumb." And when asked if anyone else was "dumb," declared "Bush and John McCain are Dumb."

I'm rather pleased that's as derogatory as it got, but still; I anticipate the day when my son decides to make a more cuastic statement about either the current President or candidates in a more populated setting. I just hope it's David who gets to be on the receiving end of that situation!

Eating for 2 or is it 6?

Just had to share this fun anecodote from Sunday:

We went out to lunch with the Huber family to celebrate Bill's birthday. It was about 1pm and the restaurant (Brock's in Fredericksburg) offered a brunch menu with Steak and Eggs. It sounded good and I proceeded to consume (in 1 sitting):

1 6oz sirloin steak
4 eggs (scrambled)
Potato wedges
2 pieces of toast

We then went to Carl's for ice cream directly aftewards!! Guess baby girl was HUNGRY on Sunday! =) I will say that I didn't eat dinner until about 7:30, but still, I was surprised at how much I could put away!

Lamaze?

Hi ladies!! I know I've been neglecting the blog lately. Sept has been a busy month - as I know it's been for you guys as well. I'm at 29 weeks and counting now! Hard to believe sometimes; even scarier to think that I'm only four weeks away from where I was when Julian was born. Cross your fingers and say your prayers, but so far, so good. Had my glucose screen last week and haven't heard back (which is good - they don't call unless there's a problem). I'll go in next week for my next appointment and which time Dr. D will do another ultrasound. Mostly it's a growth check; because Julian was early, she wants to take a peek at how baby girl is doing - size wise.

But here's my question for you both - did you take any childbirth classes (lamaze, bradley, alexander, etc)? And what did you think (helpful, not helpful, somewhere in between)?

Right now the idea of a VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) is on the table. And I'm inclined to try it that way if I get the chance. My window is pretty narrow for this option; it's only possible 1. IF I DON'T get pre-eclampsia and 2. IF I DO go into labor naturally. If I show signs of pre-eclampsia, then it'll be a Cesarean (when that time comes). If I don't show signs of pre-eclampsia, but look to need help starting labor (i.e. pitocin etc), then it's straight to Cesarean again. Even if it's a small window, I'd want to be prepared if I get the chance for a VBAC and am considering the Lamaze class that's offered through my OB practice. Would love to get your thoughts.

Let me know and be sure to give me the update on how you're doing!