4D SCAN - 27 WEEKS, 5 DAYS

Today was the day of our 4D scan. I was pretty nervous and excited and not really sure what to expect.

The Mum's arrived and we said our goodbyes to the boys before getting in the new car to head to the appointment.

We left in plenty of time but we arrived at the clinic on time, not early. It didn't matter though as we didn't get called in until 4pm and our appointment was at 3:45pm. I do understand now though why we were a little late. I'll explain in a bit.

I had had a can of fizzy and a couple of chocolate bars to get the baby moving as this was what I was instructed to do. I had a full bladder too which isn't essential but if the baby is in a funny position, then going for a wee might help it to move.

We did the formalities of signing the declaration etc and then I hopped on the bed and warm gel was applied to my huge tummy. It was warm because it had been on the radiator.

They lady that did the scan was Natalie and she is actually a friend of Tilly's which was a bit strange to find out as she really wanted to ask me about it at the start of the session but we didn't find out until the end.

The first part was doing the usual 2D scan of just checking around, the sex of the baby (clearly still a boy) and its general health and position. Guess what? The baby is breech! I know there is plenty of time for it to move around and I so hope it does but in my gut I really think it won't. Time will tell on that, and like Sally said, at least I could blag another scan later on.

We did get a DVD of the whole thing and there is a part on there pointing out the fact that he is indeed a he. When I work out how to put it on here, I will. But I'm sure that will be after Christmas now unless I can get Rob to help me with it.

We then started to look at the 4D images. It didn't work how I thought it would. I assumed it would be the same as a normal scan but seeing it properly if you know what I mean. But what actually happens is, they find the face on the 2D image and then flick a switch, wait for it to work for a little bit and then you see what you get. A lot of the time there is a lot of black holes, which is where there is cord, hands, arms, and in our babies case, legs and feet! Yep his feet were up over his head, just like Ellis'.

We tried for a while to get something and I had to roll over onto my right side, then onto my left side, then back to my back but we still weren't getting any good face pictures. Natalie then said to go to the toilet, walk around, get a drink, jump up and down etc and come back in 15 minutes. This 15 minutes is why we were late going in as the girl before us had the same issue and had to go back to try again. We were very lucky with this and I will explain why again later on.

I went to the loo then went outside for a walk. I managed to grab Rob who was buying coffee for the Mum's and he bought me a tea. Hot tea always gets Nugget moving. I walked around a little bit more and then we went back in.

It wasn't fantastic but it was better than before. We managed to get a few good pictures.

I love this one!

Hand and foot in front of face. We could see his fingers and toes wiggle.

Here are some short videos of the scan too.

There was a really funny moment towards the end where we were watching his hand in front of his face and it looked like he was counting as he had a hand and foot there and Rob said he had got to 10 and needed to carry on. Then we said about him telling us to get lost and that we wouldn't be surprised if he gave us the finger. Seconds later he did! We all laughed, even the sonographer who apologised for doing so. I told her not to be silly and that of course she could laugh. Bless.

We were in there for ages and at the end when she said she was all done, she asked if I was happy and I said yes but could you please do it for 10 seconds more? Cheeky I know but I knew we were her last appointment and I just wanted one more glimpse of his chubby chops.

The Mums and Rob enjoyed it and we all agreed that it looked a lot like Ellis. There were times, especially from the side angle that it looked a bit like Leo but with the full lips, chubby nose and cheeks, I think it looked just like my first born. I hope the delivery doesn't end up the same though. I can't help myself freeking out about it a bit and I have already started to read up on ways to get the baby shifting. This one web site suggested these things!

1. Visualizing the baby moving down with the head very deep in your pelvis, several times a day; especially in conjunction with positions and exercises below.
2. Swimming as often as possible. This keeps your body and pelvis loose and relaxed. Do in conjunction with headstand below if you have help.
3. Headstand - with assistance and in a pool frequently as possible.
4. Breech Tilt - begin at 32-35 weeks gestation. Do 3 times daily for 10-15 minutes each time, when you have an empty stomach, and the baby is active. Prop one end of an ironing board securely on a sofa or chair 12 to 18 inches high (or may use slant board). Lie down, bend knees but keep feet flat on board. Relax, breathe deeply, avoid tensing. May also use pillows on a flat surface to raise hips 12-18" above shoulders. Gravity pushes the baby's head into the fundus, tucks it, and baby can then do a somersault to a vertex position.
5. CD/iPod headphones - place them inside mom's pants toward her pubic bone and play classical music for 10 minutes 6-8 times a day.
6. Flashlight - try moving slowly down from the top of the uterus toward your pubic bone while you are in a breech tilt position.
7. Massage - start with your left hand at the bottom of the abdomen and your right hand just above it. Move move your hands clockwise around the right side of your tummy. As your right hand reaches the top of your abdomen, slide the left one over your right and move it down the left side of your tummy. Your left hand leads as you you come full circle, continuing clockwise. Massage gently as you would to apply lotion. Massage for ten minutes or more up to several times each day.
8. Clothespin - place on the small toe of each foot at the outside corner of the toenail; sideways so that the toenail and toepad are stimulated for 30 minutes per day, this is an acupressure point that is a "moving down" point. You can also do this with just finger pressure as you remember to do it.
9. Motion Sickness band - place with the bead four fingerwidths above the inner ankle bone - another acupressure point that is used for stimulation of the uterus. Do not use this point if you are experiencing any pre-term labor.
10. Glass of orange or other juice - follow this with a side-lying position with your hips positioned higher than your feet. Babies move more after a sugar high!
11. Pelvic Tilt- with an ice pack on the top of your tummy on an empty stomach, 10 minutes twice a day. Do this while lying on your back on the floor with knees flexed and feet on the floor with three large pillows placed under your buttocks. Try this in conjunction with headphones and visualization.
12. Cat stretch - start with all fours, then lay your head and chest flat on the floor with your buttocks in the air, as you round your back and return to all fours.
13. Knee-chest position - by kneeling with hips flexed slightly more than 90 degree, but with thighs not pressing against your tummy and your head, shoulders and upper chest are flat on a mattress for 15 minutes every two waking hours for five days.
14. Belly Relaxing followed by Inversion - Partner places a shawl, sheet, towel or rebozo under mom's hips as she lays on the floor. Lift up on the corners of the cloth and shimmy her from side to side moving your hands up and down to wiggle her belly from side to side. These should be very small movements which mom should find very relaxing. Do this for about 5 minutes. Then mother kneels on the stairway landing. Walk your hands down 2 or 3 stairs into an all fours position; have your partner support your shoulders to balance you. Remain in this position for about 5-10 minutes or as long as comfortable. Also do this on an empty stomach.
The following techniques to turn breech babies to vertex involve the assistance of a specialist or medical professional:
15. Acupuncture - find a acupuncturist who is familiar with pregnancy and knows the points to stimulate for turning a breech baby.
16. Webster's Breech Technique - see a Chiropractor who is experienced in this technique.
17. External Version - this can be done in the hospital at about 37 weeks; see an Ob-Gyn for assistance and more information.

I'm just really hoping it doesn't come to any of that, but I suppose I ought to be prepared. I need to stop getting myself worked up about it for now as like everyone says there is plenty of time for it to turn. Just want to cry though. I'll snap out of it, just a bit tired from all the excitement.

We had to wait for the photos, CD and DVD before Rob brought the car to the door for us to go home.

The Mums watched a repeat of the DVD in the back of our new car on the way home, which was pretty cool.

At home we tried to talk to Ellis about it but he was too interested in the ipad. Will try again tomorrow.

Hands and feet are puffy again tonight. Looks like that might be here to stay until the end. I'm going to be massive just like I was with Ellis. Ah well.

I'm off to do some handstands!

PUFFY - 27 WEEKS, 4 DAYS

This evening Rob has heard the heart beat, felt him moving and then tomorrow he will see him! How exciting.

I got out the shower tonight and noticed that my feet and legs are puffy. I suppose it is quite sudden but my shower was quite hot so I'm putting it down to that. A few hours have passed and they are still puffy so maybe that's just the way they will be now.

Feeling very tired at the moment but I have been very busy. I'm soldiering on like a trooper though. Well I think so anyway.

Getting excited/nervous about the scan tomorrow. Hope the weather isn't too bad but as least we have our 4x4 now so we should be okay. Will update on car soon.

Very late night again for me but I am having the lie in tomorrow which is great as I bet the kids will be in with us early anyway.

TECHNOLOGY - 27 WEEKS, 2 DAYS

Still haven't managed to work out how to put the videos on yet but will have another go on Friday when Rob is home to help me with stupid technology!

Nipples have started to sting in the last couple of days so I'm expecting them to start leaking soon.

Pain in leg is still there but I've been trying to ignore it and just getting on with it. It does feel quite muscular but was wondering if it could be a sign of a blood clot or something. I haven't checked for swelling which I suppose I should but leg colour seems fine so I'm sure its not. Sally's sister suffered really badly with a blood clot so its been brought to my attention recently. I wouldn't have given it a thought if it wasn't for that. Thankfully she is doing much better and last blood test was normal levels I believe, so YAY!

Rob keeps coming home from work, putting his hand on bump and going ah, I love it. It's so nice of him to do that and I know he isn't putting it on as such. It is a genuine feeling and it makes me feel nice as I feel like I don't particularly look nice. Every time I glance in a mirror, I never look properly, I see someone with a puffy white face, bags and just generally looking awful.

Nugget is still moving tons which is lush. Wish I could bottle the sensation and feelings you have when you feel it as the memories of this part seem to go very quickly. In fact its the biggest thing you miss when baby is out yet you can't remember what it feels like. Very strange.

Ellis rested his hand on my tummy earlier and left it there for a while which was nice. He didn't feel him move even though he did right under his hand, like father like son! I also showed him some newborn sized clothes in Sainsbury's today so that he could get some idea of how small he will be when he gets here.

Right off to do the other blog as I'm behind, again!

STETHOSCOPE - 27 WEEKS, 1 DAY

90 days to go! Next week I will be in my 3rd trimester! Crazy!

Last night I was laid in bed watching my belly wobble about and I thought I might have a go at trying to listen to his heart beat with the stethoscope that Shazza has kindly leant to me. I had a go the other night but couldn't find anything but it didn't take me long to find it last night. It was great! I loved it and will probably try doing it all the time now!

The wobble belly was Nugget kicking about. He really is a wriggler and the past 2 days he has hardly slept! He either has the hiccups, is trying to turn around or is kicking me. He gets into some funny positions but mainly he is stuck up right under my rib cage on the right side, kicking down towards my bladder and bum. Not a nice feeling and I'm looking forward to some higher kicks please.

I will try and load the videos I did later on as they are on my mobile phone so need to work that all out first.

Woke up this morning with really bad pain running down my left leg, and it hasn't improved all day. It feels like I've pulled my hamstring. I so hope it is just that. I was in and out of the car a lot yesterday so that might have something to do with it.

The evening is passing by and I have loads to do. Need to finish Rob's dinner, sort out the washing and I would like to do a topflumps blog entry as I get really behind on that. But it's already 8pm and I have yet to shower so think I may get very little done.

BIG - 26 WEEKS, 6 DAYS

Been feeling fine. I did slip on Ellis' rug last night and pulled my pelvis but it seems to have got better as the day has gone on which is great news.

Feeling tons of kicks and movement now but it is all still very low down. I've convinced myself already that this baby will be breach. I don't know why, I just have. Will try and convince Judith (midwife) to give me a late scan to double check.

Looking forward to the 4d scan next week but a little bit nervous too. It will be very strange seeing our baby's face.

Saw Naomi on Friday night and she hardly has a bump! I'm so massive in comparison to her and I'm a lot taller so you would think she would show more too. Hopefully the scan will be able to show if the size of the baby is okay for this stage.

Loving being pregnant.

25 WEEKS - 26 WEEKS, 3 DAYS

Right then here is my 25 week post when I am 26 weeks and 3 days pregnant. Better late than never!

Bump pictures and measurements first before chat.

Me with Ellis

Me with Leo

Me with Nugget.

Measurements with Leo

Weight = 12st 6lb
Tummy = 98cm
Upper arm = 29cm
Upper leg = 60cm
Ankle = 23.5cm
Neck = 33cm

Measurements with Nugget

Weight = 13st! (+1st 5lbs!!!! SHIT!) With Leo pregnancy I had put on 12lbs at this stage.

Tummy = 100cm

Upper arm = 29cm

Upper leg = 63cm

Ankle = 23.5cm

Neck = 33.5cm

So overall I am much bigger than my second pregnancy but I did start off from a higher level anyway. Never mind, I'm sure when I'm looking after 3 children aged 3 1/2 and below I won't have too much time to eat and the weight will come back off a bit quicker than before.

I've started to shop a bit for Nugget and I will soon be getting his room ready, after Christmas actually but I'm at least thinking about it.

The crib is in from the garage which needs a clean and I have to purchase a new mattress. I won't bother with mattress covers as I have loads. Will have lots of washing to do though.

I don't have much to buy really. The newborn vests and grows are barely used so they will be fine. The next size up I might get rid of some but then again I might not.

I managed to find a do do which I love. It's the same as Leo's but a different colour.

And I think I bought a coming home outfit as the one used for Leo and Ellis is too summery.

I've also bought a snow suit, which is lush! It isn't too thick so should get away with it for the first month. It didn't cost too much money so don't worry Sally.

I was supposed to see the physio and the midwife the week commencing 29th November but Leo was unwell, and still is, so I changed it and the midwife appointment was working out to be too much hassle right before Ellis' swimming lesson so I changed that too. She couldn't fit me in until 23rd December and I'll be just over 28 weeks by then. I haven't seen her since 16 weeks. That's a huge gap but normal for subsequent pregnancies apparently.

Pelvis pain has been up and down. Mostly up though and I can't complain. I do hobble about and I walk as though one leg is longer than the other. It also takes me a few steps when I get up to loosen up a bit so that I can walk freely. I haven't been wearing my stretchy bandage thing as I don't think I need it yet.

With this pregnancy I am certainly getting more painful muscle twinges. I only had it a couple of times with Leo. It's like an electric shock running down the right side of my belly button. I know it's to do with the diastases (which you can read about here) and it won't be getting better until baby is out.

Overall though at the moment I must admit that apart from hobbling and feeling a few twinges, stings etc I am feeling fine. I don't even notice I'm pregnant half the time and sometimes when I'm stretching first thing in the morning and Nugget gives me a "gentle" kick to the bladder I suddenly remember what is going on in there. Please don't think I don't think about him as I do, a lot.

My bump is massive! It really sticks out quite a long way, so does my arse and thighs mind you. I measured it yesterday, my bump that is, and I think I'm about 2 weeks over on my size! I hope I'm wrong. Ellis and Leo weren't huge babies though. They were both overdue, Leo was 8lb 1 1/2 ounces and Ellis was 7lb 13 1/2 ounces. Which is about average apparently.

I don't like the look of my bump this time for a few reasons. The excess skin from Leo hangs out at the bottom which is just plain weird and my stretch marks are horrific to me. I love looking at it with clothes on but unlike the first 2 pregnancies I tend to keep it covered up. I often catch Rob looking at it though and because I'm paranoid I think he is thinking the same thing but he says he loves it. He said he thinks it's the cutest bump I've had. That was sweet to say so.

Nugget is kicking a lot more but 99.9% of the movement is down towards my bladder and just above my pubic bone. It's very strange and I hope it moves up a bit soon so I can video some of the movement. I have had a go but it isn't working just yet. Still have time.

Boobs are huge too! They look funny really but I like them. Need to get down to Perfect Fit for a new under wired bra. I know I shouldn't be wearing one but I have to. I've not had any problems with milk supply with the first 2 and by the size of these things, I don't think I will this time either. I wonder how all that will go. When I got pregnant with Leo my boobs were still leaking and continued to do so for the whole pregnancy but this time they weren't leaking to start with and haven't started now either. Feeding Leo was a breeze in comparison to Ellis so I just hope we have the same again please.

I've started to get a bit of indigestion recently. Nothing major just a bit of acid reflux every now and then. I slept in a sitting up position the other night but that has only happened once. I'm sure more will come when baby grows a bit more.

Appetite is all over the place. Some days I'm so hungry I could just sit and eat but others like the last 2 days, I can take it or leave it.

I finally decided that I did want to go ahead with a 4d scan and so I am booked in to have one on the 18th December. I really can't wait! Mum's are coming too which will be nice and the boys are being looked after by Uncle Dave (Ellis) and Grandad Rennolds (Leo). We did want to go out for food after but Uncle Dave has to go out in the evening so we have to get back.

I am in 2 minds about posting the pictures and videos from the scan. I'm not sure if I want to keep my baby's face private or not. I share everything else (not the name) so was thinking about keeping that for us. But then I want to record it on here so I am having a dilemma. I'm pretty sure I will post it as I know very few people actually read this blog anyway.

We have also bought a new car again. Rob has picked it up but refuses to bring it back home until it has been cleaned as he is worried about my response. I know he likes it and he really wants me too, and I'm sure I will, but he just wants to make sure. It is a Land Rover Discovery 3, 2.7 tdi, 2004, automatic, dark blue, cream leather interior, it has TV screens in the back and lots of other stuff. This one we can't send back but the health check at the garage had a very positive report and we were lucky to get it as someone else couldn't get their funds together in time so it was offered to us instead. YAY!

Can't wait to meet my baba! But I'm also happy to wait if you know what I mean. I'll get a little glimpse in 9 days! That reminds me, I'm into double figures now for how long I have left. Scary stuff!

Going to start my Active Birthing classes soon and I would love for Naomi to come with me but pretty sure she isn't up for it. I just want her to come to one or two just to see what it's all about as I think you can be put off just by what it is called.

Starting my antenatal classes after Crimbo. I really want to go to them again as it's a bit of a refresher and hopefully I can help by sharing any experience that I may have. It's also nice to have a natter with other women in the same boat. I just hope that I can find someone to have the boys for me on a Tuesday morning! Any takers please?

Huge blog which I didn't really want to start but once I got going I couldn't stop! Definitely have preggers brain though as I sent a Christmas card to my sister with the name of her dog that she had put down a year ago on it and I tried to put Leo's slipper on his hand today! Very funny.

Off to chill for 2 minutes before going to bed. Doesn't make sense I know.

20 WEEK SCAN - 24 WEEKS, 2 DAYS

It's been a very long time between posts but I have been having trouble on deciding on how to actually write this one. I want to be honest about my feelings but I don't want to upset anyone that might read this. Very hard for me to explain. I was going to just cut and paste the story of the scan from topflumps, and I pretty much will but will elaborate on feelings etc.

So lets go back to the week of the scan, I hadn't been feeling quite right since my curry night with the girls but had nothing to show for it other than cramps, pains, and just generally feeling a bit sick.

Unfortunately it got rather worse on Friday which was a shame as it was the day of our 20 week scan (at 21+4 days). I was barely eating and just didn't feel right. I had quite dizzy spells too and just generally felt very tired all the time. I thought it was pregnancy related but maybe it was a bug.

Friday afternoon Mum came over at 2pm to take care of Leo and to pick Ellis up from school so that Rob and I could go for the scan. We got to the hospital and there were plenty of parking spaces which was lucky. We signed in and paid for some pictures. I wanted 4 and they were £4 each! Rob couldn't believe it when he received his change from a £20 note.

We sat waiting, me huffing and puffing because I felt so rotten and Rob huffing and puffing because of the cost of the pictures, before being called in quite quickly.

The ladies name was Tracy and she was very friendly. We went into a scan room we haven't been in before which was nice and I got up on the table and we could soon see our little Nugget on the screen.

We had a little look around and on examining the face we saw the mouth open and shut a few times. It was like it was talking to us! The examiner replayed the pictures and it was so funny to see. It's going to be a chatterbox like Ellis.

Rob's face was about an inch away from the monitor as he was trying to hunt down the male or female parts. I really didn't want to know and was so determined not to find out but after showing us the skull, brain, eyes, mouth, heart, kidneys, there it was. Both Rob and I said at the same time "it's a boy then?!" I've seen it's got a willy. Tracy laughed a bit nervously as she hadn't told us to look away etc and it was pretty obvious as she was zooming up and down the babies legs to kidneys area that there was indeed a penis.

All 3 or us spent a long time talking about it being our 3rd little boy and how my life was doomed to be seriously outnumbered, forever blue with toilet seats up and rowdy boys running and jumping around. Rob quickly turned to me and said "don't think you will be getting a 4th because of this!". I was genuinely not surprised that it was another boy but I so wish we hadn't found out at that moment as I felt the tiniest bit of excitement dissipate. The thought and hope that it could have been a little girl were gone and I now have a few months to get used to the idea of another boy.

Tracy took some pictures and at the end said she had gone a bit overboard taking pictures and not to tell the front desk. I was quite excited about that but she actually only went overboard by 1. We had 5 pictures and 4 of them are the same front on view of the skull. No hand or foot, side on profile, body, nothing. I wish I had thought to ask at the time but we were so busy talking about it being a boy that I forgot.

Back at home we told the boys and Mum the news which was all rather exciting and then I started to receive text message replies to a message I had sent out telling everyone else what had happened. I had some lovely responses back and one from Sophie (AB) made my Mum and I cry. Lush.

I had a lot of messages saying, better luck next time, have to go for a 4th then etc but I think 3 boys is enough for anyone thank you. Chances are the 4th would be a boy anyway. There was only a 1:4 chance of this one being a boy.

I am very happy that the baby appears normal and healthy and I know that pink, or blue, babies are a blessing. This still didn't stop me from crying in Asda about the fact that I would never get to buy pink stuff. It sounds so silly as I am a Mum of such amazing children that I should be sad about this stuff. Some people can't even have children of their own or struggle for a very very long time to get one, which is why I have really been struggling with my feelings recently. I feel very guilty that I am crying and upset that I will never get to experience having a daughter or being able to buy pink things when some people can't buy or experience any of it! I can't help the way I feel though and I have been a bit sad.

I shared with Rob some of what I was feeling but I'm pretty sure he doesn't know what to say. Plus it's not something he can just fix so it must be hard for him.

I will obviously get over it and I can't wait to meet my baby in March. In fact recently I seem to be wishing the time to come sooner. With the past 2 pregnancies I wanted to savour every minute but this time, although I am enjoying it for the most part, I just want him here. I want to see what he looks like, I want to give him cuddles and I want the boys to meet him.

So having said all that, I now need to get up-to-date with how I have been since then.

I am currently 24 weeks and 2 days pregnant.

My boobs and butt don't look like that!

23 week bump picture which I forgot to put on sidebar.

I have really started to feel Nugget move in the last 2 weeks. So much later than with the first 2. I try all the time to just stop for a minute to feel it but during the day when Leo is awake it is very difficult as he comes over and just gives it a wack. Ellis is better but he does jump around a lot which makes my belly wobble anyway.

I can now see the movement from outside too which has also taken a while this time and the other strange thing for me is that all the kicks and prods are very low down. I mean on my c-section scar and below! Way too low I think. Maybe from all the hard pushing with Leo, everything has sagged down that little bit further, as I know my bladder has.

Bladder is working ok. I don't get leaks but it doesn't really tell me when I need to go so when I do go I can be there for ages and I realise that I probably should have gone sooner.

I am having to get up in the night to wee too which I have never done before either. So many different things this time! Apart from the sex of the baby obviously.

The baby jumps at loud noises now so when the boys shout or something gets dropped I feel it jump about. I love feeling the movements. It doesn't get any more special than that.

My bump this time isn't very attractive, according to me anyway. I have a funny over hang at the bottom and my stretch marks are disgusting. I actually find it quite depressing how vile my skin is. I was hoping not to get any new ones this time but I'm quite itchy as the skin is stretching so maybe I will. I cream and oil up all the time so I can't be told I haven't tried to stop them.

Over the last week or so my pelvis pain under my left buttock has really kicked in. Some days it is quite bad and I hobble around like a very old person. Other days it just twinges every now and then. I'm trying really hard to do my exercises and I have a physio appointment soon so I will probably be told to wear my stretchy bandage which should help a bit for a while, hopefully. I'm also trying to not complain about it too much as when I was pregnant with Leo I was always going on about it. It's just one of those things that happens to me and I have to get on with it. As long as baby comes out ok and I'm alright, it doesn't matter. I really would love to get my stomach sorted out after though. Might look into that. Not for cosmetic reasons although that would be nice but for health reasons really. My stomach muscles are shot from 3 pregnancies, being cut for a c-section and cut for an appendectomy. Hopefully they could do something about my bladder too. That's all a long way off yet.

I am hoping to go for a 4d scan this time. We didn't with the others as we didn't have the cash but I really would like to have one done. I've found a good place recommended to us and it isn't stupidly priced. Will look into booking that soon and hopefully Mum's could come too or something.

I am also going to go back to my Active Birthing classes but I'm not quite sure when to start. Might leave it until after Christmas but then that only gives me 2 whole months! Might be enough to get my head in gear. If anything I'm feeling too cocky this time and need to be careful that I'm not over confident. Every time is a new time. Baby might be breach yet for all I know!

Right, done it now. Might leave a bit of a gap again unless something interesting happens.

HAPPY HAPPY - 21 WEEKS, 1 DAY

This pregnancy is turning out to be quite different from the first 2, although I'm still sure it will be a boy.

I haven't had pelvis pain yet which is great and I'm really enjoying this pregnancy, not that I didn't the other 2 but they were just a lot harder, and I cried more feeling sorry for myself as it was just hurting so much all the time. I hope the lack of pain continues even though the stiffness and sharp stabbing pain in my arse cheek have arrived. I think that is do with the sciatic nerve.

Things are really busy at the moment and I'm pretty sure that will continue until after Christmas now, which is great but also I feel like I'm not giving enough thought to this pregnancy and this baby. I keep forgetting! How could I? I even tried laying on my tummy this evening while chatting to Ellis, and it wasn't until it hurt that I realised I'm squashing my lickle Nugget!

Speaking of Ellis, that is another thing that is making this pregnancy so great. He is so excited too! I'm getting to share it all with him, and he understands this time. Tonight he felt it kick for the first time and was so pleased. He was very gentle and really interested in what was going on. It's really nice talking to him about it all and I love it.

The movements are still really faint actually and really, really low down. I don't remember the kicking with the boys being so far down, like under my c-section scar. I've seen it kicking from the outside but right down low. I assume that is ok!?

Last time at this stage too, my scar was burning. This time I haven't had any problems with it which has been good. Probably because all the scar tissue was stretched with the Leo pregnancy.

Looking forward to the scan on Friday. Be good to see Nugget again and check that everything is proceeding how it should. I'm still not 100% on finding out the sex or not. I suppose it depends on if everything is ok first. Rob really wants to find out and I would like to, but I also want to feel how it feels when you find out at the end. I just can't decide completely.

Bump has suddenly really popped out! I'm wearing my one pair of fat jeans everyday now and they really could do with a wash but I have nothing else. I've bought some leggings but can't bring myself to put my tree trunks in them. I've also bought some jeans but they just pull my pants down every time I move. I hate not having nice fitting clothes. I buy stuff hoping it will fit properly later but never wear it! I do the same with the boys. I buy them clothes that I think they will grow into but then I forget I have them and by the time I remember they don't fit again! I'm all confused over clothes at the moment but I'll work something out. Would really just like one pair of decent fitting jeans!

I had a fair few people today tell me how big bump was suddenly looking. I think the fact that I haven't pooed in a few days and that they didn't see me for a week because of half term has made a difference.

Busting out of my bras. Lotty has leant me some so I need to try them on. If not I'm off to Perfect Fit to get some new ones. Going to treat myself.

Nervous about scan. Hopefully have some blurry pictures to post on the weekend. I say it like that because they seem to do crap 20 week pictures. I looked at Ellis' yesterday and his were brilliant (we were at a different hospital for Ellis scans). You can see them below.

Leo's were rubbish, in my opinion. They were £2 each too. This time they are £4 each! Not sure how many we will buy yet. You have to decide before you actually see the pictures so you could end up with 4 pictures of next to nothing.

Right, that's it! I'm shattered so off to bed for some rest before Ellis comes in saying he can't sleep. I really can't be bothered tonight so if he comes in, he can stay even though he just bugs me rather than going back to sleep.

HALFWAY - 20 WEEKS

The baby measures about 6.5 inches/ 16.5 centimetres from crown to rump and is steadily gaining weight. A whitish coat of a slick, fatty substance called vernix caseosa begins to cover the baby and protects the skin during its long immersion in amniotic fluid. It also eases delivery. The baby's swallowing more this week, good practice for the digestive system. After your baby takes in amniotic fluid, its body absorbs the water in the liquid and moves the rest into the large bowel.

Here are the 20 week bump pictures and measurements.

Now...



...before.



Measurements:

Weight = 12st 9lb (+14lbs) - WHAT!
Tummy = 96cm (+2.5cm)
Upper arm = 29cm
Upper leg = 63cm (+2cm)
Ankle = 24cm (+.5cm)
Neck = 33cm (+.5cm)

I'm not too keen on doing the measurements, but I've started so I'll finish.

One think I love about my growing size are my boobs! I want to keep them please. They are full and actually have some shape to them. Please stay boobs.

I did a video diary for a change. It's about 8 minutes long but I talk constantly so it passes quite quickly.

NEW - 19 WEEKS, 5 DAYS

Nugget has been kicking me loads today which has been lush and I've tried to stop what I'm doing and just enjoy it for a bit. Certainly makes it more real to know there is a little thing in there wriggling and kicking about.

As of today, we have decided not to find out the sex of our baby. I know I will find it very hard but I'm actually very excited to find out what it is after going through the hard work of giving birth. I'm still reasonably high risk for having a normal delivery so if for any reason I need to have a c-section again, finding out what we have after might soften the blow a bit. I know I am thinking way ahead! I will buy a girl going home outfit though, just in case. ;o)

Nic had her baby boy, Harry James, 8lb 14oz in the early hours of Thursday morning. She was due to go into hospital to be induced on the Thursday so luckily she missed that. He is so cute.

Loving being pregnant and so far so good. Don't want to jinx it too much.

Seeing as I've decided what I'm doing re finding out the sex, I have now changed the poll question to what do you think we are going to have? Please vote.

Feeling tired quite a bit but the boys are waking up early, before 6am which is always a killer to see 5 something on my phone.

The new car has now gone. The garage wouldn't pay for the repairs so they asked for the car back in the end. Rob drove up this morning and got the train back. It's a bit of a shame as we are now back to car hunting. BOO!

Hopefully we will find something soon as it tends to make Rob rather unsettled. He just can't stop thinking about it, surfing about it etc.. I'm not that worried. We have plenty of time before we actually need a bigger car, so I can wait.

Not long until the 20 week scan. Can't wait to see Nugget again. Hopefully all will be okay and then it will just be trying to enjoy it until D day. Exciting stuff.

STING - 19 WEEKS, 2 DAYS

Just rubbed across my belly, around my belly button area and had a horrible stinging pain. Bit scared to touch it again, or move! I know it's to do with my stomach muscle issue, I just hope it goes away.

Not feeling too happy about that but loving feeling Nugget move under the stinging.

BOOBS - 19 WEEKS, 2 DAYS

My right nipple was stinging like crazy yesterday and so itchy! Growing time again I expect.

Still not feeling too much movement but there is some which is nice. I think I'm just too busy to notice sometimes.

The new car arrived yesterday and unfortunately after some proper checks today it was found to not be road worthy so I can't drive it yet and we are waiting to see if the repairs will be paid for by the company we bought it from. It's a shame really as it would just be nice for something to run smoothly for a change. My negative attitude about some things comes from situations like these. I have a few others in mind that make me distrusting and negative but this isn't what this blog is for.

Just sat here typing this out when I had a very funny sensation like I was going to faint. I had them before in Leo's pregnancy and I always thought it was low sugar levels but it can't be that. I've just eaten and I've been eating and drinking quite well for a few days now. Weird. I am feeling very hot and flushed though so maybe it's that.

Feeling rather drained and tired, might watch something light like Glee and go to bed early.

KICKS - 19 WEEKS

OMG! 19 weeks gone already, I am in my 20th week! It's really starting to sink in now especially as Nugget is making itself known by kicking and wriggling. I've almost been like a first time Mum trying to feel the movement this time, and it started much later than with the boys so I have actually been really worried about it.

I went out with my AB girls from my Leo pregnancy and I was sure I was feeling it move on the Thursday evening, then on Saturday 16th I was sat on the computer and I had a proper kick. I quickly led on the floor and asked Rob if he wanted to try and feel too, which he did. Within seconds of him putting his hand on my bump he felt it too. It was lush and a huge relief too. I have been feeling little bits of movement every day now but nothing major yet.

Bump is growing steadily. I'm still wearing my size 12 jeans, done up which is amazing but I don't think it will last much longer. I've been very lucky too to have been lent some maternity clothes from Sharon and Sally so I have tons of choice. Just need to get some comfy bottoms now and a jumper or two, oh and a swimming costume.

This time around I thought that as my skin has been stretched past its limit with the 2 previous pregnancies that I wouldn't get any more stretch marks. Well I think I may get some more as the old ones are going pinky again already! I hate it! No amount of cream or oil will stop it from happening but I will try it anyway just for my own peace of mind. I don't think I will be getting bump out this time as it's not nice.

Yesterday I spent the afternoon sorting through the baby clothes that have been in bags in our room since we moved. I have plenty of newborn white vests and grows and 0-3 months actually but no unisex items apart from one cardigan. So if Nugget is a girl (highly unlikely) then I would certainly be doing some shopping. Online shopping though as can't even begin to think about getting 3 kids out the door to go shopping.

New car arrives tomorrow which is really exciting and I have ordered the next size up car seat for Ellis which is scary really as he is growing up so fast.

Other than being continually covered in spots, I'm feeling fine. So much so that I keep forgetting I'm pregnant. I can still lie on my front too.

We still haven't decided if we are going to find out the sex or not yet. Rob doesn't mind so it's up to me to make the decision. Deep down I think I will find out as I'm impatient and I want to get organised, start bonding and sorting a name out. I like a girl and boy name at the moment but Rob isn't too keen on either. It will work out I'm sure.

HEARTBEAT - 17 WEEKS, 4 DAYS

I have to rewind slightly as I realised I haven't posted the video of when we heard the heartbeat.

The appointment was on Friday 30th September and Leo, Ellis and Rob came along too. It was really nice being there as a family.

I had my blood pressure done and I was told that I didn't need to give any blood as I had had an Oscar scan so the blood screening wasn't necessary. Then I laid on the bed and after a few seconds we heard the little squishy noise of Nugget's heart.

Last night I'm pretty sure I felt some movement. It was more like a kick actually but I haven't felt anything yet today. Rubbish!

Went to my physio appointment yesterday. She was really pleased with my muscle tone and said they were very strong but that the split in my tummy muscles would happen again and that we just needed to keep an eye on it. I have my exercises to do and for now I don't have to wear my stretchy bandage. If I have any pain I have to put it on and book an earlier appointment. My next appointment is the end of November when I am 25 weeks. By then my uterus will be pushing up past my belly button which is where the stretch is measured from. She was quite pleased though which made me happy.

Okay then so here are the 16 week bump picture. Take into account that Ellis took the bump picture this time.

I have also put my current measurements and what I was last time. The "from Leo" means an increase or decrease from the same stage as Leo pregnancy.

This time...

Weight = 12st 4lbs (+8lbs from Leo) (+9lbs this pregnancy) SHIT!

Tummy = 93.5cm (+2.5cm from Leo)
Upper arm = 29cm (+2cm from Leo)
Upper leg = 61cm (+2cm from Leo)
Ankle = 24cm (.5cm from Leo)
Neck = 34cm (1.5cm from Leo

Leo Pregnancy...

Weight = 11st 10lb (+4lbs)

Tummy = 91cm (+6cm)
Upper arm = 27cm
Upper leg = 59cm (+2cm)
Ankle = 23.5cm
Neck = 32.5cm

I'm not worried about the increased measurements. My starting weight was a lot higher than second time around and I didn't control my eating for the first 4 months this time either so I'm not surprised. My appetite has diminished in recent days and I'm starting to eat healthier. Better late than never I suppose.

Hoping to feel more movements in the next few days. Will post an entry if I do.

HORMONES - 17 WEEKS, 1 DAY

I realised that I'm already falling behind on this blog. I wanted to post bump pictures and measurements but just haven't found the time and energy to do it.

Anyway, I don't feel pregnant at all. I haven't felt the baby move yet which I really don't like. I had felt both the boys by now so it's very frustrating as that is one of the best things about being pregnant and I feel like I'm being robbed of special moments. I sound ridiculous I know but I can blame it on my hormones which seem to be on overdrive at the moment according to hubby. Of course I know nothing about it as my body and mind is taken over.

I've had to move up to my big bras now. 34 FF! They don't fit that well though and the wire under my arm sticks in so think I should invest in a new, better fitting bra. I've also started to wear nursing bras to bed as they are much more comfy. I really am all Mumsy now.

Sharon brought over a bag of maternity tops for me which is great. I now have loads which is really nice to have a choice in the morning. I just need to get some bottoms. I want to get 2 pairs of jeans and some leggings. I'm just trying to wait until the last possible moment to get them but I feel like that time is fast approaching.

Will try and do pictures and measurements soon.

4 MONTHS - 16 WEEKS

I told a lady today that I was 3 months pregnant. It then occurred to me that I'm 4 months gone! It is going by so quickly! Much quicker than the first 2.

I'm feeling fine, waking up with a bump now rather than a flabby belly but I can still lie on my stomach. I love having a bump and can't wait until it obvious that I'm carrying a baby in there and not just a few extra packet of crisps. Will need to do a bit of shopping though as all maternity clothes are summer stuff. Thin cotton t-shirts/vests and one pair of broken jeans.

Boobs are getting bigger and fuller which is great! I hate the saggy things I've been left with, but I can't stay pregnant forever. They do sting every now and then and I just put it down to a growing day.

Still really spotty. Most days I have new spots on my face. Don't seem to be getting them anywhere else.

Hair is staying cleaner for longer which is great as the other day I couldn't remember when I last washed it! How horrible is that.

I have my appointment with the physio soon but pelvis is so far, okay. Hope she says my tummy muscles are doing good too. I'm doing my exercises all the time.

I've just read back over my growing dollop diary and I was feeling Leo move at this stage. I'm certainly not feeling anything at the moment but will have a lie down in a bit and concentrate to see if I can feel it. I definitely felt flutters the other night but nothing much.

I will try and do my measurements tomorrow, in the morning. I know for sure I am over the weight by about 5lbs, but then again I started out at least 2lb heavier this time around.

I keep forgetting all the time! I was chucking Leo up and down this evening, which he loves by the way, but then I realised that I probably shouldn't be doing that. Also I play fight with the boys and we roll around the floor and they jump on me etc.. Very silly of me and I need to be careful.

Had a stressful few days. Been living up Mum and Dad's as the electricians were doing some work and making lots of mess. Rob was away working too so been feeling a bit alone, even though I wasn't of course. Mum and Dad were great. Dad slept on the floor and Ellis and I had his bed, and Mum gave up her getting ready room for Leo to sleep in and of course the boys are up early every morning. They were brill to just put us up like that, at such short notice too. Thank you so much xxx

My 16 week bump picture was taken by Ellis this week as Rob is away until Wednesday night so that will be too late really. I set the camera up on the tripod and he pressed the button. It didn't work that well really but I was just doing it quickly.

Pictures and figures to follow tomorrow as too tired today.

LUSH - 14 WEEKS, 4 DAYS

I have a baby growing in my belly and 2 gorgeous boys. It doesn't get much better than that! I am so happy to be pregnant again and to be expanding our family. It's going to be tough I know, but I have a great support system that will see me through and before I know it, I'll be a Grandma. I want to savour every moment of this pregnancy and every second of my boys lives.

ALREADY - 14 WEEKS, 1 DAY

Absolutely shattered today. Partly my fault though so I have tried not to complain too much, but I have moaned about it most of the day. In fact I didn't speak to Rob this evening as I text him to say there wasn't much point as I was too grumpy.

Pelvis started clicking a few days ago which is bad news and I strained it a bit running around the garden with the boys on Sunday. Trying very hard to nurse it and hopefully it will settle down again. I'm doing better than I was with Leo anyway.

I've been doing my tummy exercises religiously and my gap between muscles is still what it was which is excellent news. I checked to make sure I was referred to the physio but I still haven't heard. Should hopefully find my stretchy bandages in one of the loft bags that currently reside in my bedroom, so I can start wearing that which will help even more.

I so can't wait to feel it move. Every evening I sit still and focus, to see if I can feel anything, but nothing yet. Still very early but I did feel Leo around this time, so you never know.

Fat jeans are way too big and fall down and my normal jeans are cutting in and hurting me so not sure what to do. I don't want to buy maternity jeans just yet so will see what I have in my bags of clothes first.

Have bump pictures to post but haven't got round to putting them on the PC yet, so will do that in the next few days.

Feeling very excited still and can't wait to meet this new little person, but I just want to enjoy the pregnancy for now as it may well be the very last time I will experience it. It is for only a short time really although it can feel like forever when you are 30 + weeks and all puffy and achy.

Ages until the 20 week scan and I will be nearly 21 weeks anyway. Still not sure if we are going to find out the sex or not. It plays on my mind every day. Not in a bad way though.

Right, I'm off to do next to nothing even though I would love to do some blogging. Enough is enough for one day.

CONSULTANT - 13 WEEKS, 1 DAY

Mum and Dad were here nice and early this morning and we left straight away. My appointment was at 9am so luckily the 2+ lane was open and we got there just on time. We found a parking space right next to the building and went in.

I checked in, and within minutes I was called. Baby Nugget was soon on the screen wriggling about, arms and legs going everywhere. The hand was on the screen for ages and this is the image that remains in my mind, soooo cute! The usual checks were done and I was told that I am 13 weeks today and not 13 +1. I'm not going to change my date though. I will keep it to what the Consultant told me on Friday. So my due date changed to 15th March.

You have to buy the pictures in advance at £4 each and you have to decide how many you want. I found this whole process very annoying as I wanted to see the pictures before I bought them. I got 2 in the end but not of what I wanted. She zoomed in right on the skull and had a good frontal picture of the face which is what I wanted. I should have asked, but never mind.

These are the pictures we got today.

Back in the waiting room, we sat for 2 seconds before being called by the consultant.

We had a little chat about the past 2 pregnancies and I mentioned that I had slightly high blood pressure at the end of my pregnancy with Ellis so the consultant decided that I should have fortnightly BP checks with my midwife from 20 weeks! He is having a laugh! I had no problems with Leo so I won't be doing that.

He didn't check my pee or BP which they did last time with Leo and we were sent on our way. We got home an hour after leaving which was great!

I have to go back at 36 weeks to see the consultant to talk about induction or c-section and then I have my 20 week scan in the first week of November. Can't wait!

Feeling really happy but totally exhausted. When Rob is away I have to wait until I could fall asleep standing up before going to bed, especially in the new house as all the new sounds and bangs keep me awake. I wake a lot in the night too so I ended up starting the day off tired. It's 9:45pm and I'm ready for bed but still got some blogging to do.

Now that people are reading and hopefully catching up, I can post more as I want this to be my diary where I can just spew my guts.

It was lush seeing Nugget again today and I can't wait for the 20 week scan. I so hope I feel it move before then.

Rob and I are starting to discuss if we should find out the sex or not. I think I would like to get organised with clothes and stuff if it is a girl but then if it is a boy we need to start thinking of a name as we struggle. I don't know, it would be lush to have a surprise but it is just too long to wait. Also if it is a girl I won't have time to go shopping for pink things, which I would want to do. Oh no, what am I going to do. Must put it to a vote I think. Please vote in the poll to help me decide!

1ST SCAN PIC - 13 WEEKS

I'm feeling really happy. We have announced to everyone that I can think of and everyone has had positive comments which has been nice.

I'm still constantly hungry but yesterday I had a bad tummy so only ate my meal at lunch and then I was done. I did have an apple to see if that would help.

I'm still surprised by how big I'm getting and how quickly. I think I need to sort my diet out or I'm going to end up huge again which wasn't good.

Pelvis is really good. I get a bit of burning sometimes but other than that, it isn't even clicking. Quite pleased about that. Maybe the fact that I'm not doing line dancing has helped.

The main questions everyone asks me are, was it planned and do you mind what sex it is? Well obviously the first question is yes it was very much planned but I think we were both very shocked with how quickly we did it. Happy obviously but surprised.

And the other question is simply no. I really don't mind this time. It's strange as with Leo I really wanted it to be a girl and I was a bit upset when they said boy. I can honestly say that I won't be disappointed at all if it is another boy and I'm already convinced it is anyway. I am almost considering not finding out so that we can have another surprise at the end. I think I might be a bit too impatient for that though, plus I would have to convince Rob too as he wants to find out. 7 weeks to decide.

I have another scan and consultant appointment tomorrow which I will blog about later. But for now here is one picture of Nugget and a short video of the folks finding out. This is a private blog with invitees only so I'm sure Mum won't mind.