Happy to do so! I’m on the heavy side too so 12 hour shifts + the extra weight was killing me until I figured out the combo that works for me. hope this helps!
Crocs Women's LiteRide Pacer Sneakers https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07TD5BGBC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_X7VDFGR6K7KA844CYRK6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Compression Socks for Women & Men Circulation(6 pairs)-Graduated Supports Socks for Running, Athletic Sports https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QJ4F5N4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_8SCYEMS1F332T48MXC0Z?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
The NIPT panorama with lifelabs(Canada) went under my maiden name because I haven't received my care card with my new name yet and my OB office has my married name which has been changed with MSP so they made them send a letter to confirm I was the same person so I wont get my report until next week! I never knew how many steps to changing a name would be lol
Bummed I wont get it before the weekend but that's okay, going to order dinner tonight and watch The Adam Project on Netflix which I think is now out with my new pregnancy pillow (highly recommend a pregnancy pillow, soooo comfy! i ordered this one on amazon)
This is totally unsolicited because a new blender is expensive but we got this calphalon activesense blender last year on sale for $110 and it’s the BEST thing ever. I make copycat Panera green smoothies and the settings are so perfect that the smoothies come out tasting store bought. Also, I’ve realized that most delicious store bought smoothies have a lot more sugary fruit juice that I’d realized… so I’ve embraced that and they’re just perfect now.
I’m looking at 2 Graco ones! (Because we have Graco car seat.
This is one I’m currently looking at because I love the stand up, but I don’t like if they’re both sitting one HAS to be facing me.
I’m also looking at this one but it is only recommended for up to 40 lbs for each kid.
The first one has an option for up to 50 lbs. So I’m just not sure
Ah yeah, it's trickier when you're going to be switching practices anyway. I'm also very shy and my mind blanks when I get asked "do you have any questions?" so what I've found most helpful is to make a list before the appointment. I use a phone app, but a piece of paper works just as well.
There's also a lot of great books out there that are very helpful for pregnancy related things. I really like the Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy. https://smile.amazon.com/dp/1893005607/
It has chapters to go over all sorts of tests, and also does week by week breakdowns of what's going on for you/baby. There's also tons of good information on the internet, but it's can be a lot harder to tell what's good advice. The book is a great resource to help you feel less overwhelmed. I'm flipping through it again even though this is my second pregnancy
I love these from Amazon:
Limited-time deal: Signature by Levi Strauss & Co. Gold Label Women's Maternity Baby Bump Skinny Jeans https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JXNXL8P/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_dl_42YQ5G2J6FMPGFJMJ6QW?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I really like my Joovy Nook one. It opens outward which is easy to do with one hand and wipes down really nicely. It has a great price point and doesn't take up much space. Joovy Nook High Chair, Compact Fold, Swing Open Tray, Black https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01KQ16IVC/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_SG276BYEQ1FHG1SD9W2D
Our son's room has a wall-sized mural of animals. It's this one and I couldn't love it more. Kinda cheesy back story: I want to foster a love of animals so he has lots of animal things and most of his plushies are animals. When my relatives abroad found out the theme, they sent great animal decor too, incl. a lamp, milestone blanket, clock, etc. Since he was born I've been telling him stories about his "friends" on the wall and I get teary-eyed reminiscing of the late nights/early mornings that they kept us company.
So that's my vote :). Can't go wrong with animals!
Now for Baby #2... I'm somewhat at a loss. My husband thought of Space and Planets and tbh I really like that so that's what I want decor-wise, esp. since we don't know the gender yet. I'm not in love w/the idea of princesses (I may be in a few weeks 🤷🏻♀️) but if I end up wanting pinks and stuff, we'll just do like 85% Space w/a few girly touches sprinkled throughout.
So that's another idea!
Fisher-Price Healthy Care Booster Seat https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00CSAWIOQ/
It's kind of bright, but all plastic and easy to clean. Straps into any chair you already have and it's small enough to travel with easily. We used it until my son decided he was done with it a week before he turned two but he would have fit in it for a lot longer. I like the flexibility to use it with or without the tray. The tray is a little small, though, so some dishes are too big and don't fit well
Like the other user, I recommend a weighted mask!
I have [this one,](barmy weighted sleep mask for women and men (0.8lb/13oz, 3 colors) weighted eye mask for sleeping, eye cover blocks light helps relaxation and night sleep, comfortable blackout sleeping mask, black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HJR2RL2/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_M3G4F3CYBJT2QM7TX6Q0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1) and I'm pretty happy with it! It's soft and the beads inside can be moved around to get a good fit to your face/eyes☺️
Yep, it helps dull the pain from my forehead, this is the one I have, it’s a bit flimsy but it works well. I got it as a gift last Valentine’s Day
IMAK Compression Pain Relief Mask and Eye Pillow, Cold Therapy Headache, Migraine, Sinus Pain, Patented, Universal Size, Great for Travel & Sleep, Blocks Out Light https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001HTYJLO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_K4X2G0J92E71YFJM15GR?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
PharMeDoc Pregnancy Pillow, C Shaped Full Body Pillow with Light Grey Jersey Cover https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MXPJCNT/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_PCKC7VR4G32J690QKYX6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 this one! I absolutely loved it my first pregnancy. The cover comes off too so you can wash it.
Oh my response wasn't clear 🙃. How to talk so little kids will listen is by a different author. Amazon link here. Though I have the audiobook version since, with a toddler, i dont have much time to sit and read anymore.
I'm relatively small chested, and love these Coobie bras from amazon; https://www.amazon.com/Coobie-Seamless-Scoopneck-Beaujolais-Full/dp/B01C67I6B4/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=2VGM6GQRGF8C&keywords=coobie+seamless+scoop+neck+bra&qid=1645121535&sprefix=coobie+seamless+scoopneck+bra%2Caps%2C68&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&smid=A2CLUBTO00MUKH&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzVzJOTFZZMVpWVE0wJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNjY2MzkwTjAyOEJVUU1BOFVGJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTAxNDA3NDEzRFhCODAxOUdMMkUmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl
They only come in two sizes so they have a good amount of stretch and have thus far been accommodating without feeling tight!
For breakfast, I eat a bowl of instant oatmeal with a fried egg on top. The oatmeal is easy to tolerate and the egg gives a protein/fat boost.
I swear by this protein powder: Link
It's lemonade flavored, so it isn't triggering at all and gives some protein when most other sources are difficult to stomach.
Don't put them in the dryer!!
Also here is a link for knock-offs under $30. I have a few pairs of both and now prefer the knock offs.
HeyNuts Essential https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B092QTNB3Y/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_YDSSEMF98JTA3R37PZ6E?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Yes, a nightlight for night changes and feeds is key! We have this cute chick one that is dimmable and portable.
I second the puppy pads and want to plug specifically ones with a waterproof bottom. Ugly but we use this for every thing. Great for changing tables. Great for changing in the park or car. Great now that we're potty training my oldest. I can't believe these have held up to three years of weekly washing.
The Proper Pet Washable & Reusable Pee Pads for Dogs - Puppy Training (2-Pack) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GRN85K8/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_glt_i_XQ5ZGACFX5M81AW9PARQ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
PS the best two sources I found for formulating questions were:
I know some people swear by the solid plastic changing pads so pee can't leak in, but I definitely preferred to use fabric changing pads with a waterproof backing over any old changing pad/surface. Hear me out. When my dude would pee during a diaper change on a hard surface, the pee would run and pool and soak everything. If he peed on the changing pad, it would absorb right away so it wouldn't spread. We got a bunch so we could throw them in the wash and grab a new one as needed. These are the ones I use: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07R5DX6RQ
I have tried a bunch of humidifiers (I have dry eye disease so I need them for another reason) and I like this one the best: https://www.amazon.com/Honeywell-HUL535W-Cool-Humidifier-White/dp/B00KNBKJFW/ref=sr_1_5?crid=7GY36NDYY7S&keywords=honeywell%2Bhumidifier&qid=1644509816&sprefix=honeywell%2Bhumidifier%2Caps%2C262&sr=8-5&th=1
I have pregnancy rhinitis too and it is so annoying. Not much helps me. I am using Flonase and keeping the humidity up and just praying I'm one of the people whose rhinitis magically goes away.
I know some people have already said a cool mist humidifier, but I wanted to plug this particular one we found after 3 years of trying different ones. It has an option to have NO stupid blue light shining in the baby's face! (Sorry for Amazon link) LEVOIT Humidifiers for Bedroom Large Room (2.4L Water Tank), Cool Mist Vaporizer for Home Whole House, Quiet for Baby Kids Nursery, Ajustable 360° Rotation Nozzle, Auto Shutoff, Night Light, BPA-Free https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VZDXV2D/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_7PJAKA1KZEXRH1J853R8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Here are the ones I bought during my last pregnancy iloveSIA Womens Seamless Nursing... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00O6M1I0Y?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Calvin Klein Women's Modern... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0861WFZ4C?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
The first ones are full coverage. You can't wear low cut shirts with them. But they are comfortable. The second one is less coverage and I didn't like feeling like my boobs were falling out haha. Towards the end of breastfeeding when my breasts weren't quite as firm anymore this is the one I wore (I'm actually wearing right now lol.)
My favorite nursing only bras are probably these from Amazon.
Auden brand at Target has great options with and without underwire.
My favorite pumping/nursing bras are from Ollie Gray. They are a little pricey, but I really like the quality and wish I bought them earlier!
My favorite face lotion: La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm
I had really dry skin after my first baby and I have very sensitive skin so I tried this one. I’ve been using it ever since. It can make your skin look dewy so you can either pat your skin later or just use it for night. I quit using any other skincare! Just this brands face wash and lotion and I’ve had the best skin in years.
I had my rings resized after my last baby, but during that pregnancy I wore this and it was perfect! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07RKMD1CJ/ref=ppx\_yo\_dt\_b\_search\_asin\_title?ie=UTF8&th=1&psc=1
If anyone is struggling with terrible constipation like I was, I want to put you on to what has helped me! I put a link to the magnesium I got from Amazon. I take 3 pills before bed at night and have been sooo regular. What a relief! nbpure Mag O7 Oxygen Digestive System Colon Cleanse and Detox Capsules
I got this recliner and basically lived in it during the newborn stage. Still use it every day and she's 14 months now. Can't wait to rock my new babe in it!
Since you mentioned popping lemon candies...you might like this: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089GZCBN8?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2_dt_b_product_details. It's a lemonade-flavored protein powder. Easy to sip on and it gives you some protein (which God knows is hard to find edible sources of right now).
STM and had horrible morning sickness first time, second time has started to hit now too. The only thing that really worked for me were sea sickness bands. I tried B6 and unison tabs, but none of it really worked well like the bands. They look silly, leave marks and don't work 100%, but I would notice a difference on days I didn't wear them to work.
Here's the ones I use: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001F731N0/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_Y54B5JNT3XMK019NTJJ2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Side note: if you do drive a lot or commute, you can buy the barf bags they have at hospitals and on airplanes too. Definitely barfed on my way to and from work more than once while stuck in traffic 🙃
I LOVED seeing the black with gold feet. I was drooling at th [Amazon.com Evolur Loft Art Deco 3-in-1 Convertible Crib](evolur loft art deco 3-in-1 convertible crib in black, greenguard gold certified, 54.75x30x45.5 inch (pack of 1) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B089HSJGDC/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_SMFV0FZ13XAZ29362Q29) but it stops at a Daybed and that makes me sad 😭
We got the Delta Emery crib for our first, I just hate that big hump on the back of the crib so much😂 My SIL is artistic and I'm getting jealous because she painted a mural for her first boy and now she's painting for #2 due in July and I'm like UGH I gotta step my game up!!
I need a crib recommendation. We are giving our newest baby the crib we already have (since that bedroom is right next to ours) and putting our 14 month old into the room down the hallway. We want a new crib for the 14 month old
The issue is that we want a crib like this... where it's a rectangle and its flat on ALL sides of the crib.
My husband also wants one that turns onto an adult bed (4 in 1 OR 5 in 1) so daybeds are a no-go. (I loved my day bed growing up, but he refuses to let that be the final stage for her bed as she grows up)
It's so hard to find a good color too:( the room shes moving into is a dark Emerald green and will have a beige/cream colored accent wall. I may even add in paneling to break up that wall a bit. I want to fix up her room since she'll be in there for about 3 years. Maybe add in gold accents or something.
I got these EZ melts. They're okay, have a bit of the fake sweetener taste, but the orange is not as sickening as I was worried they would be, and they really do "melt" super fast when you chew them
I got basic under the bump cotton underwear from Amazon for my last pregnancy. They worked great. I wore them all the way through
I have this one for our living room. I see it's now on sale so I might buy another one for our bedroom. honeywell air purifier
These are 25 mg each! I'm currently using them. b6
I’m finding this book to be helpful. The Pregnancy Workbook: Manage Anxiety and Worry with CBT and Mindfulness Techniques https://www.amazon.com/dp/1648768377/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_5S8MT85B9288D45YT69G?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I haven't started taking Unisom this time but last time I took it and B6 every night before bed. I'm vegan so I take a B12 supplement every day anyway that also has B6--this is the one I use. Honestly I still had pretty awful "morning" (all day) sickness during my first trimester last time, but maybe it would have been worse without it? No idea! Unisom definitely helped me sleep.
This was my #1 most brutal symptom in my first pregnancy. By my third trimester it was taking me 3-4 hours to fall asleep at night because my legs were so restless, it was insane. I have just started to notice it creeping in this time. Things I used last time with minimal relief: magnesium cream, epsom salt baths, Natural Calm, compression socks, weighted blanket. I think I am going to try this this time, because honestly I can't handle this again! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07P3JJ2YK/ref=ox\_sc\_act\_title\_1?smid=AIPAGW5BQIR21&psc=1
PHOENISING Womens Boyfriend Style Drawstring Retro Fabric Jeans https://smile.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01JOU8URQ/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_Q9TRP5CZWZX3F9EEY01P?psc=1 These jeans from amazon! I didn't actually have them during my first pregnancy - I bought them a few months ago before getting pregnant but I'm loving them so much now in the 1st tri I've just ordered another pair! I think they'll be comfy postpartum too, and they have like 6 large-smartphone-sized pockets! (maternity jeans are usually lacking in this department!)
Last time around I wore a lot of non-maternity long-line/tunic style tops and jumper dresses, plus Primark leggings one size up from usual. The last few weeks I avoided anything I didn't want to overstretch (I went to 42 weeks and the last week or two even actual maternity clothes struggled!) but stuff I wore up to about 8 months was fine afterwards.
Ina May Gaskin's Guide to Childbirth!
So much helpful info for first time moms who have NO idea what they have gotten themselves into! XD
https://www.amazon.com/Ina-Mays-Guide-Childbirth-Gaskin/dp/0553381156
Oh toootally - I've spent a stupid amount on pregnancy tests, but it's really making me feel calm and it's fun so I don't see the harm. Also - I never buy tests in pharmacies (except for 1 digital when I got a positive test and I simply did not believe it) - you can get 3 FRER for 10 bucks on amazon! https://www.amazon.com/First-Response-Result-Pregnancy-Packaging/dp/B000052XHI