I really hate computers.
And you would think that with the trouble we have - we would be experts at backing-up our information, but we never learn....
I'll get more to that later.....
Fredrik came home pretty early today because he had an emissons test for his work car. So he was home at 14.00 and yesterday we had decided that we would get some things done around town since he would be home before all the stores close.. :/ :)
So he got home and we went to the office where I have to turn in my "proof of pregnancy" paper. That took about 2 seconds.. :/ :) And then we went to the paint store and got paint for the room! So we hope to start that this weekend! :) (Even though the plans of painting for this afternoon were completely shot.)
And a couple of days ago we received an ad in the mail for a washer and dryer, they were on sale, about 2000 sek (300$) off each one, so we thought that we would go buy them. And there was a store in Säffle (about 15 minutes away) - which was awesome that we didn't have to drive all the way to Karlstad (1 hour away). So we got there and ordered the washer and dryer and we also ordered a freezer for the basement! We might should get them some time next week (I think). So now we have no money. :D
But the washing machine is an "A+" with electricity and the dryer is a "B." So, that should help save money in the long run! And they both hold 7 kg (~15 lbs.). (Most hold about 5-6 kg.) So we think we made a good buy! :)
And the freezer is desperately needed. We have a tiny freezer with the fridge.
After feeling slightly guilty about spending so much money... :D We came home and I made some homemade pizza for dinner (super yummy btw).. and while it was baking - I turned on the computer - and the computer kept restarting itself.
So, the computer (desktop PC) has completely died. We think it is either mechanical or electrical.
So for the last couple of hours (about 3-4) "we" (Fredrik) has been trying to get it to work, and we managed to get Linux going, so that we could get to the harddrive and try to save all my stuff!! So we've managed to get some files and pictures. And now Fredrik is going through his stuff seeing what he wants to save (or what is prudent to save).. So that we can reinstall the stupid !¤%&#@ computer. And then we still don't know if it is going to work. For awhile, I thought Fredrik was going to through it down the basement stairs, when he mentioned just going and buying me a new laptop. (Which is tempting, but I refuse to have the new Windows Vista.) :/
So right now I am on Fredrik's laptop trying to write all that we got done today.. :/ :)
I slept SO well last night! I only had to get up once during the night! I felt so refreshed, like a new person.. :/ :)) But I think last night I realized why I've been feeling so icky - the constipation that I had in the first trimester has definitely returned.. :/ So I think that is giving me lots of belly aches.
And I have heartburn ALL the time now.. :/ Thankfully I have some amazing pills from the US that get rid of it right away. Anything I eat gives me heartburn, and when I lay down.. :/ (In the US - they say if you have lots of heartburn that your child will have a LOT of hair.) :)) But right now I am blaming it on the salami that I put on the pizza.. :/ :))
I think that is all for now..
Time for some ice cream and to drag Fredrik away from the computer so that he can not stress about it too much.
P.S.
Those of you that might have e-mailed me, I apologize, but it might be awhile before I get back to you... :P
D.S.
Friday, August 31, 2007
34th Week of Pregnancy
What changes are occurring with your body?
Typically the amount of amniotic fluid peaks between 34 and 36 weeks. At 37 weeks the amount of amniotic fluid begins to decrease to allow more room for the baby. The amniotic fluid is reabsorbed by your body, which also increases the amount of room that the baby has to move. You may begin to notice that your baby's movements feel different.
How big is your baby?
Most likely your baby is somewhere between 15 ½ to 17 ½ inches (39-44 cm) long and weighs around 5 to 5 ½ pounds (2250 - 2475 g).
What is happening with your baby?
During the last several weeks, we have discussed that your baby's body has begun to fill out with the formation of fat under his/her skin. This is an important part of development because these fat stores will help him/her to regulate their body temperature once they are born.
The central nervous system is continuing to mature, and the lungs are well developed. While most healthcare providers would ideally like you to carry up to 38 to 40 weeks, your baby has a good chance at surviving outside of your uterus at this time.
Typically the amount of amniotic fluid peaks between 34 and 36 weeks. At 37 weeks the amount of amniotic fluid begins to decrease to allow more room for the baby. The amniotic fluid is reabsorbed by your body, which also increases the amount of room that the baby has to move. You may begin to notice that your baby's movements feel different.
How big is your baby?
Most likely your baby is somewhere between 15 ½ to 17 ½ inches (39-44 cm) long and weighs around 5 to 5 ½ pounds (2250 - 2475 g).
What is happening with your baby?
During the last several weeks, we have discussed that your baby's body has begun to fill out with the formation of fat under his/her skin. This is an important part of development because these fat stores will help him/her to regulate their body temperature once they are born.
The central nervous system is continuing to mature, and the lungs are well developed. While most healthcare providers would ideally like you to carry up to 38 to 40 weeks, your baby has a good chance at surviving outside of your uterus at this time.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Too much fun!!
Here is a screenshot of my game.. :/ :D
I am the yellow and all those little, tall things are my armies. :)) (The Egyptians are the tan, tall thingies.) I'm building up my military to go after the Egyptians. :))
I spent all my money, though, doing it.. :( I had over 600 000 florins, but now I have very little money.. :(
Much better.
I slept much better last night!
I don't think the sleeping would be as bad if I didn't have to get up 5 times to go to the bathroom.. :/ I used to have to get up maybe only 2 times at the most, but now.. I probably average 4 times a night.. :/ I try to not drink anything too late, to try to lessen the severity of trips, but it doesn't really matter.. :/
The first time I got up.. was around 3 I think, and I walked into the bathroom, and Caesar was sitting in the bathtub... ?!?! Just sitting there, looking at me. I asked him what he was doing in the bathtub, but he had no explanation.. :/ He was sitting to one side facing the door (under the faucet). I was thinking that maybe he was going to pee in there again, which he hasn't done in months. But he wasn't trying to go to the bathroom, he was just sitting there. So I lifted him out and let him go outside.. :/ :)
He is a very silly cat.. :/ :)
But now it is breakfast time. :)
I realized that I felt icky yesterday because I had a slight tummy ache, which I don't have today. But now I am really hungry.. so .. FOOD!
I don't think the sleeping would be as bad if I didn't have to get up 5 times to go to the bathroom.. :/ I used to have to get up maybe only 2 times at the most, but now.. I probably average 4 times a night.. :/ I try to not drink anything too late, to try to lessen the severity of trips, but it doesn't really matter.. :/
The first time I got up.. was around 3 I think, and I walked into the bathroom, and Caesar was sitting in the bathtub... ?!?! Just sitting there, looking at me. I asked him what he was doing in the bathtub, but he had no explanation.. :/ He was sitting to one side facing the door (under the faucet). I was thinking that maybe he was going to pee in there again, which he hasn't done in months. But he wasn't trying to go to the bathroom, he was just sitting there. So I lifted him out and let him go outside.. :/ :)
He is a very silly cat.. :/ :)
But now it is breakfast time. :)
I realized that I felt icky yesterday because I had a slight tummy ache, which I don't have today. But now I am really hungry.. so .. FOOD!
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
A walking zombie.
I did NOT sleep well last night. :/ The worst night so far. :/
I couldn't fall asleep and then I woke up and I was sooo tired. My eyes were glued shut.. :/ I rested a little in bed today when Fredrik got home from work. But I have just been a complete zombie today. :/
It is so difficult to get anything done - I just walk around and know that I should be doing something but never remember what it is I should be doing.. :/
My friends keep having their babies early.. :/ :) Ours will probably arrive very late. :)
A friend just recently had her baby 13 days early..!
I have been working a bit with the baby shower. Working on invitations, stuff like that. The hosts are leaving stuff like that up to us, just easiest - with who to invite, etc.. Fredrik helped me put the final decision on the invitation.
And I think we have a final decision on paint color for the room! We decided earlier this evening. We picked a slightly darker color, figuring that it will be lighter once painted and dried (which is what happened with the other room).
So because of the poor sleeping, I've not felt too good today. Had a headache for awhile. I might try to take a nap before we head to the grocery store a little later.
I've been playing Medieval Total War. I'm Spain. :) I got rid of the French and English quite easily, but now the Egyptians are giving me a little bit of trouble, they are the aggressive country in this round of playing. I've already taken all of Northern Africa, Scandinavia, and I've just gotten rid of the Germans and I'm heading into Eastern Europe. :) The game is a lot of fun. :)
I've been trying to watch the World Championships in Track and Field in Japan during the morning hours. Always fun.
Fredrik has his fishing thing tomorrow. I think it is around 14.00 or something like that is when it starts. No idea how long it will last but they will be fishing somewhere south of Bengtsfors.
But now I think I am going to try to go rest for a little while. So I can make it through the store. :D
I couldn't fall asleep and then I woke up and I was sooo tired. My eyes were glued shut.. :/ I rested a little in bed today when Fredrik got home from work. But I have just been a complete zombie today. :/
It is so difficult to get anything done - I just walk around and know that I should be doing something but never remember what it is I should be doing.. :/
My friends keep having their babies early.. :/ :) Ours will probably arrive very late. :)
A friend just recently had her baby 13 days early..!
I have been working a bit with the baby shower. Working on invitations, stuff like that. The hosts are leaving stuff like that up to us, just easiest - with who to invite, etc.. Fredrik helped me put the final decision on the invitation.
And I think we have a final decision on paint color for the room! We decided earlier this evening. We picked a slightly darker color, figuring that it will be lighter once painted and dried (which is what happened with the other room).
So because of the poor sleeping, I've not felt too good today. Had a headache for awhile. I might try to take a nap before we head to the grocery store a little later.
I've been playing Medieval Total War. I'm Spain. :) I got rid of the French and English quite easily, but now the Egyptians are giving me a little bit of trouble, they are the aggressive country in this round of playing. I've already taken all of Northern Africa, Scandinavia, and I've just gotten rid of the Germans and I'm heading into Eastern Europe. :) The game is a lot of fun. :)
I've been trying to watch the World Championships in Track and Field in Japan during the morning hours. Always fun.
Fredrik has his fishing thing tomorrow. I think it is around 14.00 or something like that is when it starts. No idea how long it will last but they will be fishing somewhere south of Bengtsfors.
But now I think I am going to try to go rest for a little while. So I can make it through the store. :D
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Week 34
Your baby measures about 19.8 inches (48 cm) from head to toe and weighs about 5 pounds (2,25 kg). Baby is probably settling into the head-down position, although it might not be final. Organs are now almost fully mature, except for lungs, and the skin is pink instead of red. Fingernails reach the ends of fingers, but toenails are not yet fully grown. Baby might have lots of hair. Movements are less frequent because of the tight fit.
Your uterus hardens and contracts as practice for labor, known as Braxton Hicks contractions, but you may not feel them yet. Your pelvis has expanded and may ache, especially at the back. Uterus is pushed hard against your lower ribs and your rib cage may be sore, and your navel is probably pushing out as a result of your abdomen being stretched.
Your uterus hardens and contracts as practice for labor, known as Braxton Hicks contractions, but you may not feel them yet. Your pelvis has expanded and may ache, especially at the back. Uterus is pushed hard against your lower ribs and your rib cage may be sore, and your navel is probably pushing out as a result of your abdomen being stretched.
Windows.
Forgot to mention this yesterday!
One day when Fredrik went to work, there was a window person there, from a business in Bengtsfors. So Fredrik stopped and talked to him and the guy gave Fredrik the boss's number. Fredrik called and and gave, as best as he could, what we want for the windows. And the guy said he would get back to us.
He called yesterday and gave an estimate: 21 000 SEK (3000$), which is ½ of what we thought. :/ :)) We are not sure if that covers ALL the little extra costs, but wow! (It still might change, once he comes and looks at things, or whatnot.) So, we are still waiting for the first guy that was here to give us an estimate. And then we'll probably contact the 2nd guy and maybe have him come out and give a more definite price.
We still want to contact a carpenter and see what they might offer to replace the windows (instead of just a window place). Farmor thinks it might be cheaper.
So, at least we finally have "a" number to go by.
One day when Fredrik went to work, there was a window person there, from a business in Bengtsfors. So Fredrik stopped and talked to him and the guy gave Fredrik the boss's number. Fredrik called and and gave, as best as he could, what we want for the windows. And the guy said he would get back to us.
He called yesterday and gave an estimate: 21 000 SEK (3000$), which is ½ of what we thought. :/ :)) We are not sure if that covers ALL the little extra costs, but wow! (It still might change, once he comes and looks at things, or whatnot.) So, we are still waiting for the first guy that was here to give us an estimate. And then we'll probably contact the 2nd guy and maybe have him come out and give a more definite price.
We still want to contact a carpenter and see what they might offer to replace the windows (instead of just a window place). Farmor thinks it might be cheaper.
So, at least we finally have "a" number to go by.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Scrabble.
Fredrik and I played scrabble last night (Alfapet). We only have a Swedish version of the game - I bought it to have a fun way to practise Swedish. :) Although Fredrik refuses to let me use a dictionary, which I think is unfair! We haven't played in awhile (used to play all the time), but I found it hidden away in a box last night after we decided to play.
Our parent group meeting today was slightly boring.. :/ :) I tried my best to stay awake, but it is difficult when it is so much repetition of what I already know. :/ This evening we went over: delivery (watched a clean, nice, quiet video) and pain medication options.
After the meeting the midwife came over and asked how I am doing, and I complained about having trouble sleeping. But I did mention that sleeping on the couch is helping. I slept much better last night than I have in awhile.
But during the meeting she mentioned about when to go to the hospital and when we should pack our hospital bags, etc.. I think the next meeting we will be going over our stay at the hospital, what will happen, etc ...
Before the meeting, we stopped at a paint store and picked up very many paint swatches to try to decide what color to paint the room. A version of light green is what we are going by right now. :) Nothing too: green, yellow, blue or institutional ........ :/ :D We'll see what we come up with.
Yesterday I sanded the little bookshelf and then today we also bought some base paint. So hopefully I can start on that tomorrow. If we can quickly decide on what color we want for the room, I don't think it will take much longer to finish everything.
CSI (Las Vegas) is on soon - the only show that I make a point of watching. (I try to catch Law & Order when it is on, as well as Scrubs, South Park, etc.. - but CSI I make time for.) :)) It reminds me a little bit of my past life = life before Fredrik/Sweden.. ;)
Hmmm.. Trying to think if there is anything else. Karl-Astrid took a very long nap today and didn't move for quite a while, which is very unlike him/her. But then during the meeting, he/she didn't stop moving for one second - So, always making a ruckus when it is most undesired.
We really want to get a trip in to the summer house some time soon. We want to make another trip to Svinesund to get to the baby store to try to buy some more things we need (like a diaper garbage pail, etc..). We would have bought them by now, but with no store around here - it is difficult. :(
Ehhh... I think that is all for now... :/ :)
I stay pretty bored all the time. I've been keeping myself sane by playing The Sims 2 religiously since we moved here, but I haven't played it for a couple of days now, so I think I have used up that resource. I've been thinking about starting a petition to bring Åhlèns (a small department store chain) to Åmål.. :))
Our parent group meeting today was slightly boring.. :/ :) I tried my best to stay awake, but it is difficult when it is so much repetition of what I already know. :/ This evening we went over: delivery (watched a clean, nice, quiet video) and pain medication options.
After the meeting the midwife came over and asked how I am doing, and I complained about having trouble sleeping. But I did mention that sleeping on the couch is helping. I slept much better last night than I have in awhile.
But during the meeting she mentioned about when to go to the hospital and when we should pack our hospital bags, etc.. I think the next meeting we will be going over our stay at the hospital, what will happen, etc ...
Before the meeting, we stopped at a paint store and picked up very many paint swatches to try to decide what color to paint the room. A version of light green is what we are going by right now. :) Nothing too: green, yellow, blue or institutional ........ :/ :D We'll see what we come up with.
Yesterday I sanded the little bookshelf and then today we also bought some base paint. So hopefully I can start on that tomorrow. If we can quickly decide on what color we want for the room, I don't think it will take much longer to finish everything.
CSI (Las Vegas) is on soon - the only show that I make a point of watching. (I try to catch Law & Order when it is on, as well as Scrubs, South Park, etc.. - but CSI I make time for.) :)) It reminds me a little bit of my past life = life before Fredrik/Sweden.. ;)
Hmmm.. Trying to think if there is anything else. Karl-Astrid took a very long nap today and didn't move for quite a while, which is very unlike him/her. But then during the meeting, he/she didn't stop moving for one second - So, always making a ruckus when it is most undesired.
We really want to get a trip in to the summer house some time soon. We want to make another trip to Svinesund to get to the baby store to try to buy some more things we need (like a diaper garbage pail, etc..). We would have bought them by now, but with no store around here - it is difficult. :(
Ehhh... I think that is all for now... :/ :)
I stay pretty bored all the time. I've been keeping myself sane by playing The Sims 2 religiously since we moved here, but I haven't played it for a couple of days now, so I think I have used up that resource. I've been thinking about starting a petition to bring Åhlèns (a small department store chain) to Åmål.. :))
Sunday, August 26, 2007
33 weeks
This week your baby weighs a little over 4 pounds and has passed the 17-inch mark. He's rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look and his skeleton is hardening. The bones in his skull aren't fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for him to fit through the birth canal. These bones don't entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as his brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.
Aqueduct pictures.
HERE are our pictures from our trip yesterday.
We really had a nice time. :) I am very greatful for Fredrik coming up with the idea. I think he knew I needed to get out and away from the house for a little while.
We decided that Fredrik can start painting the ceiling! Right now it is .. not an off-white color but a dark cream color, and it is just nasty.. :/ :))
Last night I watched Memories of Murder. Fantastic film! It is one of my favorites. It was one of the first Asian films that we watched, from South Korea. It is a detective movie and it is.. one of the best films I have ever seen.
We love watching Asian movies, especially horror movies, but it is difficult to buy them in Sweden. We always want them with English subtitles instead of Swedish subtitles (Fredrik is more picky on this than I am), then they have to be imported from England or the US, and then they become super expensive. So, we always try to stock up on some on our trips to the US.
Right now we are getting ready to run to the store and pick up some more paint brushes. And I need to find me a new sudoku puzzle book. :P
I'm anxious to pack our hospital bag, but it is way too early for that yet. And Fredrik has his trips coming up anyways that he has to use the small overnight bag for, so that is good in a way that he has to go away - otherwise I would be packed already.. :D
We have our first new roses growing outside!
I'm really anxious to finish the room up.. :/ I want to get all the Baby's furniture back in the room.. :/ :) Anxious to make the crib up and put things on the walls, etc ... Not sure it is as much of a Swedish thing as it is an American thing with fixing up the Baby's room. There are a few theme ideas in Sweden, with characters, but nowhere near like in the US, where you can buy complete room sets of just about anything.
Okay, I think Fredrik is ready to go to the store, so that is my cue to finish up. :)
We really had a nice time. :) I am very greatful for Fredrik coming up with the idea. I think he knew I needed to get out and away from the house for a little while.
We decided that Fredrik can start painting the ceiling! Right now it is .. not an off-white color but a dark cream color, and it is just nasty.. :/ :))
Last night I watched Memories of Murder. Fantastic film! It is one of my favorites. It was one of the first Asian films that we watched, from South Korea. It is a detective movie and it is.. one of the best films I have ever seen.
We love watching Asian movies, especially horror movies, but it is difficult to buy them in Sweden. We always want them with English subtitles instead of Swedish subtitles (Fredrik is more picky on this than I am), then they have to be imported from England or the US, and then they become super expensive. So, we always try to stock up on some on our trips to the US.
Right now we are getting ready to run to the store and pick up some more paint brushes. And I need to find me a new sudoku puzzle book. :P
I'm anxious to pack our hospital bag, but it is way too early for that yet. And Fredrik has his trips coming up anyways that he has to use the small overnight bag for, so that is good in a way that he has to go away - otherwise I would be packed already.. :D
We have our first new roses growing outside!
I'm really anxious to finish the room up.. :/ I want to get all the Baby's furniture back in the room.. :/ :) Anxious to make the crib up and put things on the walls, etc ... Not sure it is as much of a Swedish thing as it is an American thing with fixing up the Baby's room. There are a few theme ideas in Sweden, with characters, but nowhere near like in the US, where you can buy complete room sets of just about anything.
Okay, I think Fredrik is ready to go to the store, so that is my cue to finish up. :)
Week 33
By now, you have all the amniotic fluid you are going to have and the amount will remain consistent until delivery. Your baby’s brain continues to grow, and increase the size of his head. Your baby continues to develop fat deposits under the skin, changing the color of his skin from red to pink. If you're having a boy his testicles have moved from their location near the kidneys through the groin to the scrotum. If you are having a girl, her chlorus is relatively prominent. Your baby is approximately 17.5 inches (44 cm) long and weighs a little over four pounds now (1,8 kg).
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Short roadtrip.
Today we went on a short roadtrip to an aqueduct that is very nearby, outside of Mellerud. We go past it often, but this was the first time that we actually went "to" the aquaduct (canal). First time we stopped and looked over the bridge was on the way to get Fredrik fitted for his tux for our Swedish wedding. :)
In the small store there, we bought the Baby a little something. :) A cute moose, that has very loose legs and arms.
Fredrik remembers there being much more stuff there; glass blowing, a handicraft store, etc ... But none of it was there and he was a bit disappointed. But we looked around plenty, seems like there was some kind of car show there, and I took lots of pictures of course. :)
Then we drove back to Åmål and went to a very nice restaurant that Farmor recommended. The food was very yummy.
Fredrik has been sleeping in the couch now for awhile, and Caesar is sleeping on the couch in the office. :/ :)
______
I've been trying to upload photos to Fotopages since we've been home, but the website isn't working. So, I'll get them up soon and share them!
This evening we watched a British show about people that regret becoming parents.. :/
Saying all this while their little ones are running around infront of them.
And then we started on the room and we got a lot done, but we ran out of material.. :( So we'll have to get some more on Monday. Not sure we can do any work until then.. :/
In the small store there, we bought the Baby a little something. :) A cute moose, that has very loose legs and arms.
Fredrik remembers there being much more stuff there; glass blowing, a handicraft store, etc ... But none of it was there and he was a bit disappointed. But we looked around plenty, seems like there was some kind of car show there, and I took lots of pictures of course. :)
Then we drove back to Åmål and went to a very nice restaurant that Farmor recommended. The food was very yummy.
Fredrik has been sleeping in the couch now for awhile, and Caesar is sleeping on the couch in the office. :/ :)
______
I've been trying to upload photos to Fotopages since we've been home, but the website isn't working. So, I'll get them up soon and share them!
This evening we watched a British show about people that regret becoming parents.. :/
Saying all this while their little ones are running around infront of them.
And then we started on the room and we got a lot done, but we ran out of material.. :( So we'll have to get some more on Monday. Not sure we can do any work until then.. :/
Friday, August 24, 2007
T-50 days.
Around 7 weeks left now.. :/ :)
We decided to not work on the room tonight. :/ :) We are both pretty tired, because I didn't sleep well last night, and if I toss and turn, then he doesn't sleep very well either.. :/ I have decided to give in and ask the midwife for something to help me sleep, or something to help me fall asleep. Until then, I think I am going to sleep downstairs, so that Fredrik can get a good nights rest without me disturbing him.. :/
But a break on the room - we will definately finish it this weekend, and probably start some painting, so no time worries, and I think we need to rest. :) I've done lots of cleaning the last couple of days and it has been super warm.
Fredrik is going through an obsessive phase with Blocket and he found some puppies on there and taunted me with them.. :(
I want puppies.. :(
(but they are only for sale for hunters) .. :(
Fredrik was maybe going to Smögen today, but he will be going on Monday instead. And on Monday we have our 2nd parent group meeting (föräldrarutbildning).
*think*
I talked to some Americans in Sweden, and asked around if anyone has ever given birth at the hospital we are going to (Näl in Trollhättan) - and a woman actually knows several people that have given birth there and she said that everyone was very pleased with the hospital and staff. And she said that Fredrik WILL be able to stay there with us! YAY! :) But she also gave me two hotel/hostel places that he can stay at in town just incase. :) So that was some good information to receive. :)
And I also talked with another woman, she has a 4 month old, and I talked with her about getting the American passport. She said she thought like I did - if we don't register the baby's birth in the first place, then it technically isn't a US citizen then we don't have to go through the process of getting a passport, etc --- She said she ended up calling the Embassy and asking, and got laughed at - because I guess the Immigration people in the States aren't as unclever as one might hope, and it can't and won't happen that the child can get through Immigration without its American passport. Since I am the mom, and the mom is American, then the child has to have an American passport to enter the US. So, it seems like we are going to have to go through the whole process afterall... :/
But the woman did give me some good info. She gave me a number to call to speed up the interview date. And she said it didn't take but 3 weeks after the interview to get the passport in the mail. She said that even if they don't get everything in time, then you can contact them, and they will give us a temporary passport that is good only for the trip, until we get the real one. She said that they had as much time as we will have (less than 2 months) to get all the paperwork done, filled, the interview scheduled, and passport in-hand- before their trip to the US this past Spring.
So, annoying that we have to get it done, but good to know that time won't be that much of a problem!
I still have to get my Swedish passport.. :/ :) But luckily our police station in town takes applications.
I've written my birthing plan for us to put in our folder to take to the hospital. :) And today I translated it to Swedish. I think I might have Fredrik look over it though, just to make sure I didn't accidently write something strange, like, "Don't put jello on my toes."
We still have to call and reserve a car seat, but still plenty of time for that.
We've been looking at birth announcements and trying to narrow down our choices so that that process will be easier after Karl-Astrid arrives.
I'm sure I'm forgetting lots of stuff, but right now I want to go make some chocolate-oatmeal cookies. :) MMMmmmm... :)
We decided to not work on the room tonight. :/ :) We are both pretty tired, because I didn't sleep well last night, and if I toss and turn, then he doesn't sleep very well either.. :/ I have decided to give in and ask the midwife for something to help me sleep, or something to help me fall asleep. Until then, I think I am going to sleep downstairs, so that Fredrik can get a good nights rest without me disturbing him.. :/
But a break on the room - we will definately finish it this weekend, and probably start some painting, so no time worries, and I think we need to rest. :) I've done lots of cleaning the last couple of days and it has been super warm.
Fredrik is going through an obsessive phase with Blocket and he found some puppies on there and taunted me with them.. :(
I want puppies.. :(
(but they are only for sale for hunters) .. :(
Fredrik was maybe going to Smögen today, but he will be going on Monday instead. And on Monday we have our 2nd parent group meeting (föräldrarutbildning).
*think*
I talked to some Americans in Sweden, and asked around if anyone has ever given birth at the hospital we are going to (Näl in Trollhättan) - and a woman actually knows several people that have given birth there and she said that everyone was very pleased with the hospital and staff. And she said that Fredrik WILL be able to stay there with us! YAY! :) But she also gave me two hotel/hostel places that he can stay at in town just incase. :) So that was some good information to receive. :)
And I also talked with another woman, she has a 4 month old, and I talked with her about getting the American passport. She said she thought like I did - if we don't register the baby's birth in the first place, then it technically isn't a US citizen then we don't have to go through the process of getting a passport, etc --- She said she ended up calling the Embassy and asking, and got laughed at - because I guess the Immigration people in the States aren't as unclever as one might hope, and it can't and won't happen that the child can get through Immigration without its American passport. Since I am the mom, and the mom is American, then the child has to have an American passport to enter the US. So, it seems like we are going to have to go through the whole process afterall... :/
But the woman did give me some good info. She gave me a number to call to speed up the interview date. And she said it didn't take but 3 weeks after the interview to get the passport in the mail. She said that even if they don't get everything in time, then you can contact them, and they will give us a temporary passport that is good only for the trip, until we get the real one. She said that they had as much time as we will have (less than 2 months) to get all the paperwork done, filled, the interview scheduled, and passport in-hand- before their trip to the US this past Spring.
So, annoying that we have to get it done, but good to know that time won't be that much of a problem!
I still have to get my Swedish passport.. :/ :) But luckily our police station in town takes applications.
I've written my birthing plan for us to put in our folder to take to the hospital. :) And today I translated it to Swedish. I think I might have Fredrik look over it though, just to make sure I didn't accidently write something strange, like, "Don't put jello on my toes."
We still have to call and reserve a car seat, but still plenty of time for that.
We've been looking at birth announcements and trying to narrow down our choices so that that process will be easier after Karl-Astrid arrives.
I'm sure I'm forgetting lots of stuff, but right now I want to go make some chocolate-oatmeal cookies. :) MMMmmmm... :)
Thursday, August 23, 2007
33rd Week of Pregnancy
What changes are occurring with your body?
The top of your uterus is a little over 5 inches (13 cm) from your belly button. Your total weight gain should be between 22 and 28 pounds (10-13 kg). [I've probably gained around 10 pounds (4,5 kg).]
You may wonder if you will be able to tell when your water breaks (also called rupturing of the membranes). This is the breaking of the fluid filled sac (amniotic fluid) surrounding the baby. Only 1 in 10 women experience a dramatic gush of the amniotic fluid, and even then it usually happens at home, often in bed. Sometimes the amniotic sac breaks or leaks before labor begins. This may be just a small trickle. It is common to be uncertain about whether leaking fluid is amniotic fluid or urine. Many pregnant women leak urine in the later stages of pregnancy, so be sure to have it checked. If you think your membranes have ruptured, you should call your healthcare provider.
How big is your baby?
Your baby is approximately 15 ¼ to 17 ¼ inches (38-43 cm) long and weighs between 4 ½ to 5 pounds (2 025-2 250 g).
What is happening with your baby?
Your baby’s skin is beginning to look less red and less wrinkled. Fat stores are continuing to be deposited under his/her skin. His/her bones are all beginning to harden except for the skull. The skull needs to remain soft and pliable for delivery.
What should you plan for this week?
Have you discussed an episiotomy with your healthcare provider? An episiotomy is a surgical incision occasionally necessary to enlarge the vaginal opening to help deliver your baby.
Many women and healthcare providers prefer not to go through an episiotomy unless it is absolutely necessary.
The practice of performing episiotomies during delivery is becoming a less frequent occurrence. According to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), episiotomies can actually cause more problems than if natural tearing were to occur. Read more about episiotomies and talk to your doctor or midwife about your concerns.
The top of your uterus is a little over 5 inches (13 cm) from your belly button. Your total weight gain should be between 22 and 28 pounds (10-13 kg). [I've probably gained around 10 pounds (4,5 kg).]
You may wonder if you will be able to tell when your water breaks (also called rupturing of the membranes). This is the breaking of the fluid filled sac (amniotic fluid) surrounding the baby. Only 1 in 10 women experience a dramatic gush of the amniotic fluid, and even then it usually happens at home, often in bed. Sometimes the amniotic sac breaks or leaks before labor begins. This may be just a small trickle. It is common to be uncertain about whether leaking fluid is amniotic fluid or urine. Many pregnant women leak urine in the later stages of pregnancy, so be sure to have it checked. If you think your membranes have ruptured, you should call your healthcare provider.
How big is your baby?
Your baby is approximately 15 ¼ to 17 ¼ inches (38-43 cm) long and weighs between 4 ½ to 5 pounds (2 025-2 250 g).
What is happening with your baby?
Your baby’s skin is beginning to look less red and less wrinkled. Fat stores are continuing to be deposited under his/her skin. His/her bones are all beginning to harden except for the skull. The skull needs to remain soft and pliable for delivery.
What should you plan for this week?
Have you discussed an episiotomy with your healthcare provider? An episiotomy is a surgical incision occasionally necessary to enlarge the vaginal opening to help deliver your baby.
Many women and healthcare providers prefer not to go through an episiotomy unless it is absolutely necessary.
The practice of performing episiotomies during delivery is becoming a less frequent occurrence. According to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), episiotomies can actually cause more problems than if natural tearing were to occur. Read more about episiotomies and talk to your doctor or midwife about your concerns.
New room pictures.
I finally remembered to put the pictures on.
No worries, the white you see is the plaster behind the transparent material, which won't be seen of course after painting begins. :) We are pleased with how it is going. And because of the doors, window, fireplace wall, and slanted ceilings - there really isn't that much left to do! After this process, we will paint the ceiling, fireplace wall, inside the doorframe, and around the window.
Couldn't sleep.
Ughh.... couldn't sleep last night at all... :/
I finally fell asleep and then I woke up for a potty break. When I got back in bed, this "thing" inside of me was going crazy.. :/ It felt like the Baby was pushing its shoulder and arm against my side and desperately trying to get out.. :/ :)) It was very strong, sorta scary in a way.. :/ :))
But I couldn't fall back asleep because it was so warm upstairs.. :/ So, I finally went downstairs at 03.00, and got in the couch. And I fell asleep pretty quickly.
I am having more and more trouble sleeping.. :/ I think it is mostly because of position.. :/ I could never fall asleep before unless I was on my tummy.. :/ And now I can't sleep on my tummy at all.. :/
Discussed it with the barnmorska (midwife) at the last appointment - she asked how I was sleeping - and she said that it isn't too much of a problem if I get plenty of rest during the day. Which I do.
Btw, I fixed the editing problem with blogger ... seems like it was a problem a few months ago, and doing some research on the Internet, I found a way to fix it ... So, all is well in the blogging world... ;)
I'll put some pictures up soon, of the room, after I jump in the shower.
I finally fell asleep and then I woke up for a potty break. When I got back in bed, this "thing" inside of me was going crazy.. :/ It felt like the Baby was pushing its shoulder and arm against my side and desperately trying to get out.. :/ :)) It was very strong, sorta scary in a way.. :/ :))
But I couldn't fall back asleep because it was so warm upstairs.. :/ So, I finally went downstairs at 03.00, and got in the couch. And I fell asleep pretty quickly.
I am having more and more trouble sleeping.. :/ I think it is mostly because of position.. :/ I could never fall asleep before unless I was on my tummy.. :/ And now I can't sleep on my tummy at all.. :/
Discussed it with the barnmorska (midwife) at the last appointment - she asked how I was sleeping - and she said that it isn't too much of a problem if I get plenty of rest during the day. Which I do.
Btw, I fixed the editing problem with blogger ... seems like it was a problem a few months ago, and doing some research on the Internet, I found a way to fix it ... So, all is well in the blogging world... ;)
I'll put some pictures up soon, of the room, after I jump in the shower.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
No pictures... :/
Not sure if it is my blogger that is acting up with the tools, pictures, etc.. but it is really annoying.. :/ :)
Hmmm..
The window guy showed up a little early today and he wrote down what we were interested in and he measured the windows, etc ... and he said he would get back to us in a couple of days with some estimates. Now we have to contact a few other places, and try to make sure we can get the best deal, as windows in Sweden are extremely expensive, and we want to make sure we get our money's worth!
He did say that it would take 7-10 weeks to manufacture the windows, and then 2 days installation.
Fredrik and I have been working on the room! He found a hidden paint store in town that had the next supplies that we needed. So we did a little last night and a little tonight, and we hope to get the next step (with the walls) done by Friday evening. I would put up pictures, but I can't.. :P
We are all doing well.. :)
The Baby is thumping away in my tummy.. :) And we are watching a friendly soccer match between Sweden and the US that is in Gothenburg. We had thought about trying to go, but we are just a little too busy right now (we really want to get the room done asap).
Caesar has bad breath.. :/ It's really nasty.. :/
Hmmm..
The window guy showed up a little early today and he wrote down what we were interested in and he measured the windows, etc ... and he said he would get back to us in a couple of days with some estimates. Now we have to contact a few other places, and try to make sure we can get the best deal, as windows in Sweden are extremely expensive, and we want to make sure we get our money's worth!
He did say that it would take 7-10 weeks to manufacture the windows, and then 2 days installation.
Fredrik and I have been working on the room! He found a hidden paint store in town that had the next supplies that we needed. So we did a little last night and a little tonight, and we hope to get the next step (with the walls) done by Friday evening. I would put up pictures, but I can't.. :P
We are all doing well.. :)
The Baby is thumping away in my tummy.. :) And we are watching a friendly soccer match between Sweden and the US that is in Gothenburg. We had thought about trying to go, but we are just a little too busy right now (we really want to get the room done asap).
Caesar has bad breath.. :/ It's really nasty.. :/
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Week 33
Your baby measures about 19.4 inches (48 cm) from head to toe and weighs about 4.4 pounds (1 980 g). The next few weeks will mark lots of growth in the baby. The fetus will gain more than half its birth weight in the next seven weeks. Baby begins to move less now as it runs out of room and curls up with knees bent, chin resting on chest and arms and legs crossed.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Finally done.
We changed cars today. :)
Fredrik called at 10.20 (he woke me up) and told me that he would come home early today and that we would go switch cars! So, now we have a Volvo in the driveway. :) I'll take some pictures tomorrow, but Blogger isn't wanting to let me add pictures, so if it is working tomorrow, I'll add them, if not, I'll add them when it is working.
I'm sorta happy to have changed cars ... :) I think Fredrik is, too.
Can't complain too much, though .. Not only did he give us what we expected for our car, and 4 000 sek off the car we bought, but when we showed up today, he had also put 4 brand new tires on the car (and we got a set of winter tires, too).
The chimney fixer-person also called today and he said they have a flat fee of rebuilding the fireplace: 26 000 SEK (3,700$). He said that it would probably be best, and give a better result to take down the entire fireplace and rebuild the whole thing (instead of doing only the top part). He said the earliest he can get to it is October, and that it then has to sit for 2 months before it can be used.
And the window place also called today! And they will come over on Wednesday at 10 to give us an estimate on changing the windows in our small food room (breakfast room).
Fredrik will be coming home around lunch time tomorrow, and after eating, he will go to a place in Åmål where he is going to be working for a few days. He is happy to be working close to home for a short while. And if this project goes well, his boss said they then should be getting much more work in Åmål (which Fredrik is pleased about).
So, things are slowly coming together. :)
Today, I made a list of phone numbers to take to the hospital with us. So Fredrik will have a ready list to call people and let everyone know how things are going.
Yesterday I washed the last pile of baby clothes that we had ... and the washer decided to behave very poorly, and didn't run the spin cycle at all (no matter how many times I ran the setting). So, I eventually rang the clothes out myself and threw them in the dryer. And we seem to think the dryer is giving up, too.. :/ Because it has to work double to get out the water.. So, we still need to look into getting new ones. Just not easy to run an hour to Karlstad to look at things.. :/ :)
But the clothes ended up washed and dryed in the end. :)
And today I picked out (probably too many) baby clothes to take with us to the hospital, and they are already packed in the baby's bag. :) (A "little" early, I know - but I'm anxious.) :P
Pictures tomorrow! (If it is working.)
Fredrik called at 10.20 (he woke me up) and told me that he would come home early today and that we would go switch cars! So, now we have a Volvo in the driveway. :) I'll take some pictures tomorrow, but Blogger isn't wanting to let me add pictures, so if it is working tomorrow, I'll add them, if not, I'll add them when it is working.
I'm sorta happy to have changed cars ... :) I think Fredrik is, too.
Can't complain too much, though .. Not only did he give us what we expected for our car, and 4 000 sek off the car we bought, but when we showed up today, he had also put 4 brand new tires on the car (and we got a set of winter tires, too).
The chimney fixer-person also called today and he said they have a flat fee of rebuilding the fireplace: 26 000 SEK (3,700$). He said that it would probably be best, and give a better result to take down the entire fireplace and rebuild the whole thing (instead of doing only the top part). He said the earliest he can get to it is October, and that it then has to sit for 2 months before it can be used.
And the window place also called today! And they will come over on Wednesday at 10 to give us an estimate on changing the windows in our small food room (breakfast room).
Fredrik will be coming home around lunch time tomorrow, and after eating, he will go to a place in Åmål where he is going to be working for a few days. He is happy to be working close to home for a short while. And if this project goes well, his boss said they then should be getting much more work in Åmål (which Fredrik is pleased about).
So, things are slowly coming together. :)
Today, I made a list of phone numbers to take to the hospital with us. So Fredrik will have a ready list to call people and let everyone know how things are going.
Yesterday I washed the last pile of baby clothes that we had ... and the washer decided to behave very poorly, and didn't run the spin cycle at all (no matter how many times I ran the setting). So, I eventually rang the clothes out myself and threw them in the dryer. And we seem to think the dryer is giving up, too.. :/ Because it has to work double to get out the water.. So, we still need to look into getting new ones. Just not easy to run an hour to Karlstad to look at things.. :/ :)
But the clothes ended up washed and dryed in the end. :)
And today I picked out (probably too many) baby clothes to take with us to the hospital, and they are already packed in the baby's bag. :) (A "little" early, I know - but I'm anxious.) :P
Pictures tomorrow! (If it is working.)
32 weeks.
By now, your baby is just shy of 4 pounds and is nearly 17 inches long, taking up a lot of space in your uterus. You're gaining about a pound a week and roughly half of that goes right to your baby. In fact, she'll gain a third to half of her birth weight during the next 7 weeks as she fattens up for survival outside the womb. She now has toenails, fingernails, and real hair (or at least respectable peach fuzz). Her skin is becoming soft and smooth as she plumps up in preparation for birth.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Lazy weekend.
We are having a lazy weekend. :) Just doing things around the house, odd and end things.
Yesterday, I oiled our oak furniture and washed some clothes and baby sheets. Today I am going to wash up the last bit of baby stuff.
Fredrik sanded the room and it looks great. I also sent him to the store.. I love sending him off to the store because he always comes home with lots of yummy stuff... :D
Yesterday we watched the making of The Devil's Rejects (one of our favorite films). And that was pretty long (2½ hours).
We had a nice, quiet, simple day together. :) And today will be even more simple and lazy.. :P :D
The room process is on hold until we can find a place to buy the next materials we need. We are having a difficult time finding it in town, and the closest place to find it it seems is an hour an either direction.. :/ :)
Caesar has been acting a little funny the last week or so --- I mean, he usually begs for food, but he is going to an all extreme now. He didn't go out last night, and he won't go out today.. So this morning Fredrik gave him a deworming pill, and we hope that might take care of any problems that are causing him to be very hungry all the time. He slept with us last night, and woke us up by playing with our toes under the cover (one of his favorite games since he was a kitten).
Yesterday I also finished up a game that I made for the baby shower in December.
And then I printed out a couple of different lists of items you want to make sure you take with you to the hospital in your hospital bags. Have to start thinking about packing all that stuff.
We read the info that we got from our hospital, and early release is being released before 72 hours. The baby is in-room at all times (was sorta hoping for out-of-room).. :/ :)) And I don't think that Fredrik will have the option of staying with us in the hospital. So, we are going to try to find a hotel or something so that he can be close by, and doesn't have to drive 3 hours every day to come visit us. Which will be expensive, but worth it having him close by so that he can spend as much time with us as possible. :) (Who knows, the hotel might be cheaper than driving so much - with gasoline prices.) :/ :))
Yesterday, I oiled our oak furniture and washed some clothes and baby sheets. Today I am going to wash up the last bit of baby stuff.
Fredrik sanded the room and it looks great. I also sent him to the store.. I love sending him off to the store because he always comes home with lots of yummy stuff... :D
Yesterday we watched the making of The Devil's Rejects (one of our favorite films). And that was pretty long (2½ hours).
We had a nice, quiet, simple day together. :) And today will be even more simple and lazy.. :P :D
The room process is on hold until we can find a place to buy the next materials we need. We are having a difficult time finding it in town, and the closest place to find it it seems is an hour an either direction.. :/ :)
Caesar has been acting a little funny the last week or so --- I mean, he usually begs for food, but he is going to an all extreme now. He didn't go out last night, and he won't go out today.. So this morning Fredrik gave him a deworming pill, and we hope that might take care of any problems that are causing him to be very hungry all the time. He slept with us last night, and woke us up by playing with our toes under the cover (one of his favorite games since he was a kitten).
Yesterday I also finished up a game that I made for the baby shower in December.
And then I printed out a couple of different lists of items you want to make sure you take with you to the hospital in your hospital bags. Have to start thinking about packing all that stuff.
We read the info that we got from our hospital, and early release is being released before 72 hours. The baby is in-room at all times (was sorta hoping for out-of-room).. :/ :)) And I don't think that Fredrik will have the option of staying with us in the hospital. So, we are going to try to find a hotel or something so that he can be close by, and doesn't have to drive 3 hours every day to come visit us. Which will be expensive, but worth it having him close by so that he can spend as much time with us as possible. :) (Who knows, the hotel might be cheaper than driving so much - with gasoline prices.) :/ :))
Friday, August 17, 2007
Pojke vs Flicka #3
Pojke vs Flicka
Boy vs Girl
I found this cute list on a random Swedish woman's pregnancy site and I thought it was neat. :) We have our own "wive's tales" about if it will be a boy or girl, so it is neat to see something in Swedish about it. Some of it doesn't apply to us yet, so I'll go through it now, and keep updating it as time goes on. :)
Du kommer att få en pojke om... (You're going to have a boy if...)
• din bebis hjärta slår med mindre än 140 slag/minut (your baby's heart beats less than 140 beats/minute) No.
• du bär magen "framåt" (your stomache is forward) No.
• du bär bebisen långt ner (the baby is low) No.
• du blir vackrare under graviditeten (you become prettier/more beautiful during the pregnancy) Not sure I should be the judge of this one.
• du inte var illamående de första tre månaderna (you were not sick during the first 3 months) Slightly naucious for a little while, but never threw up once!
• dina pupiller utvidgas när du tittar på dig själv i spegeln minst en minut (your pupil widens when you look at yourself in the mirror for at least a minute) Stayed about the same. No difference in the end.
• du vill äta salt och proteinrik mat, som ost och kött (you want to eat salt and protein rich foods, like cheese and meat) No.
• dina fötter lättare blir kalla (your feet become cold easier) Always have cold feet.
• du gör en pendel av din vigselring och en bit tråd, hänger den över magen och den svänger i cirklar (make a pendulum with your wedding ring and a piece of thread, hang it over your stomach and it swings in circles) Yes! Each time.
• du får torr hy (you have dry skin) Nope.
• du lägger din ålder då du blev befruktad till numret på månaden du blev befruktad och svaret är ett jämnt nummer (take the number of your age when you became pregnant plus the number of the month you became pregnant and the answer is an even number) 27 years + 1 for January = 28! Even number.
• du fått tjockare och blankare hår under graviditeten (you get more thicker and shinier hair during pregnancy) No.
• håret på benen växet fortare under graviditeten (the hair on your legs grows faster during pregnancy) Actually growing slower and thinner.
• du lättare får huvudvärk (you get headaches easier) The headaches come and go, nothing more than normal.
• du sover med huvudet mot norr (you sleep with your head to the North) Nope! To the South.
• du spontant visar händerna med handflatan nedåt ifall någon ber att få se dem (if someone asks to see your hands, you automatically show your hands with palms down) Nope.
• du sover på vänster sida (you sleep on your left side) Right or left side.
• din urin är klargul (your urine is a clear-yellow) No.
• du luktar starkt från hela kroppen då du ätit vitlök (you smell a lot from your whole body when you eat garlic) No.
• om ditt förra barns första ord vad "pappa". (your previous child's first word was "dada") Doesn't apply.
Du kommer att få en flicka om... (You're going to have a girl if...)
• din bebis hjärta slår fortare än 140 slag/minut (your baby's heart beats more than 140 beats/minute) Average of 150-160.
• du är rund runtom, inte bara framåt (your are more round in the middle, not only outwards) A small bubble that is pretty wide.
• du bär bebisen högt (your baby is high) Very high.
• du inte alls blev vackrare under graviditeten (you didn't become at all prettier during pregnancy) Not sure I should be the judge of this one.
• du var illamående de första tre månaderna (you were sick during the first 3 months) Nope!
• dina pupiller inte utvidgas när du tittar på dig själv i spegeln minst en minut (your pupils do not widen when you look at yourself for at least a minute in the mirror) Stayed about the same. No difference in the end.
• du vill äta sötsaker som juice, frukt och godis (you want to eat sweet things like juice, fruit, and candy) Definately having a sweet-tooth now: chocolate.
• du gör en pendel av din vigselring och en bit tråd och den svänger från sida till sida när du håller den över magen (make a pendulum with your wedding ring and a piece of string and then hang it over your stomach and it swings from side to side) Nope.
• din hy är mjukare än vanligt (your skin is softer than normal) Used to have very dry elbows, now always super soft.
• du är mer känslosam än vanligt (you are more emotional than normal) Yes. :/ I can just go through the TV channels and just catch a glimpse of Oprah and start crying.. :/ Rather annoying actually.....
• du spontant visar dina händer med handflatan uppåt om någon ber att få se dem (when someone asks to see your hands, you automatically show them palms up) Yes.
• du inte luktar starkt efter att ha ätit vitlök (you don't smell strongly after eating garlic) Correct.
• du lägger din ålder vid befruktningen till numret på den månad du blev befruktad och svaret är ett udda tal (you add your age, when you became pregnant, with the number of the month you became pregnant and the answer is a odd number) Nope.
• ditt hår blivit tunnare och mer glanslöst under graviditeten (your hair has become thinner and less shiny during pregnancy) No. Hair has stayed the same.
• du sover på höger sida (you sleep on your right side) Left or right side.
• du sover med huvudet mot söder (you sleep with your head towards the South) Yes! (South-East)
• din urin är mindre klargul (your urine is less clear-yellow) Yes.
• ditt förra barns första ord var "mamma". (your previous child's first word was "mama") Doesn't apply.
Räkning (Findings) :::
Pojke: 4 green / 12 red
Flicka: 12 green / 3 red
Boy vs Girl
I found this cute list on a random Swedish woman's pregnancy site and I thought it was neat. :) We have our own "wive's tales" about if it will be a boy or girl, so it is neat to see something in Swedish about it. Some of it doesn't apply to us yet, so I'll go through it now, and keep updating it as time goes on. :)
Du kommer att få en pojke om... (You're going to have a boy if...)
• din bebis hjärta slår med mindre än 140 slag/minut (your baby's heart beats less than 140 beats/minute) No.
• du bär magen "framåt" (your stomache is forward) No.
• du bär bebisen långt ner (the baby is low) No.
• du blir vackrare under graviditeten (you become prettier/more beautiful during the pregnancy) Not sure I should be the judge of this one.
• du inte var illamående de första tre månaderna (you were not sick during the first 3 months) Slightly naucious for a little while, but never threw up once!
• dina pupiller utvidgas när du tittar på dig själv i spegeln minst en minut (your pupil widens when you look at yourself in the mirror for at least a minute) Stayed about the same. No difference in the end.
• du vill äta salt och proteinrik mat, som ost och kött (you want to eat salt and protein rich foods, like cheese and meat) No.
• dina fötter lättare blir kalla (your feet become cold easier) Always have cold feet.
• du gör en pendel av din vigselring och en bit tråd, hänger den över magen och den svänger i cirklar (make a pendulum with your wedding ring and a piece of thread, hang it over your stomach and it swings in circles) Yes! Each time.
• du får torr hy (you have dry skin) Nope.
• du lägger din ålder då du blev befruktad till numret på månaden du blev befruktad och svaret är ett jämnt nummer (take the number of your age when you became pregnant plus the number of the month you became pregnant and the answer is an even number) 27 years + 1 for January = 28! Even number.
• du fått tjockare och blankare hår under graviditeten (you get more thicker and shinier hair during pregnancy) No.
• håret på benen växet fortare under graviditeten (the hair on your legs grows faster during pregnancy) Actually growing slower and thinner.
• du lättare får huvudvärk (you get headaches easier) The headaches come and go, nothing more than normal.
• du sover med huvudet mot norr (you sleep with your head to the North) Nope! To the South.
• du spontant visar händerna med handflatan nedåt ifall någon ber att få se dem (if someone asks to see your hands, you automatically show your hands with palms down) Nope.
• du sover på vänster sida (you sleep on your left side) Right or left side.
• din urin är klargul (your urine is a clear-yellow) No.
• du luktar starkt från hela kroppen då du ätit vitlök (you smell a lot from your whole body when you eat garlic) No.
• om ditt förra barns första ord vad "pappa". (your previous child's first word was "dada") Doesn't apply.
Du kommer att få en flicka om... (You're going to have a girl if...)
• din bebis hjärta slår fortare än 140 slag/minut (your baby's heart beats more than 140 beats/minute) Average of 150-160.
• du är rund runtom, inte bara framåt (your are more round in the middle, not only outwards) A small bubble that is pretty wide.
• du bär bebisen högt (your baby is high) Very high.
• du inte alls blev vackrare under graviditeten (you didn't become at all prettier during pregnancy) Not sure I should be the judge of this one.
• du var illamående de första tre månaderna (you were sick during the first 3 months) Nope!
• dina pupiller inte utvidgas när du tittar på dig själv i spegeln minst en minut (your pupils do not widen when you look at yourself for at least a minute in the mirror) Stayed about the same. No difference in the end.
• du vill äta sötsaker som juice, frukt och godis (you want to eat sweet things like juice, fruit, and candy) Definately having a sweet-tooth now: chocolate.
• du gör en pendel av din vigselring och en bit tråd och den svänger från sida till sida när du håller den över magen (make a pendulum with your wedding ring and a piece of string and then hang it over your stomach and it swings from side to side) Nope.
• din hy är mjukare än vanligt (your skin is softer than normal) Used to have very dry elbows, now always super soft.
• du är mer känslosam än vanligt (you are more emotional than normal) Yes. :/ I can just go through the TV channels and just catch a glimpse of Oprah and start crying.. :/ Rather annoying actually.....
• du spontant visar dina händer med handflatan uppåt om någon ber att få se dem (when someone asks to see your hands, you automatically show them palms up) Yes.
• du inte luktar starkt efter att ha ätit vitlök (you don't smell strongly after eating garlic) Correct.
• du lägger din ålder vid befruktningen till numret på den månad du blev befruktad och svaret är ett udda tal (you add your age, when you became pregnant, with the number of the month you became pregnant and the answer is a odd number) Nope.
• ditt hår blivit tunnare och mer glanslöst under graviditeten (your hair has become thinner and less shiny during pregnancy) No. Hair has stayed the same.
• du sover på höger sida (you sleep on your right side) Left or right side.
• du sover med huvudet mot söder (you sleep with your head towards the South) Yes! (South-East)
• din urin är mindre klargul (your urine is less clear-yellow) Yes.
• ditt förra barns första ord var "mamma". (your previous child's first word was "mama") Doesn't apply.
Räkning (Findings) :::
Pojke: 4 green / 12 red
Flicka: 12 green / 3 red
None of this really means anything but it is fun anyways. :))
Everything is pointing to a girl = then we know Baby will definately be a boy.. :D
Thursday, August 16, 2007
As promised ...
... some pictures of the room!
I finished the second layer of plaster today. Next we are going to detach the radiator from the wall and drill in screws there (into the drywall) and plaster that. THEN, Fredrik will start sanding. And after that, we will finally be ready to continue to the next step. :)
I really wanted to have a short bookcase to put in the room, for baby books and toys. We were going to get something cheap from IKEA (the cheapest thing we could find) - but when we were at the summer house a few weekends ago visiting with Fredrik's parents, he asked if we could steal a short bookcase from there. And farmor gladly agreed. :) Fredrik's grandfather made it (morfar) many, many years ago from sugar boxes. So we will just sand it and repaint it and it will be passed on to another generation. :)
And I was supposed to share pictures of the blanket that I'm making:
Fredrik and I picked this yarn out while we were on one of our trips to Estonia. (They have really, really cheap yarn there!) I didn't have the correct amount of yarn per color to complete the book pattern - so I took the main.. idea of the pattern and made my own pattern! It is a little too narrow, I wish I had made it wider, but I will continue in length until the yarn runs out. But the narrowness will make it good to tuck Karl-Astrid into the carseat. :)
I like it, though. :) I think it is purdy. :))
And of course, to close with a picture of Mr. Kitties sleeping:
I finished the second layer of plaster today. Next we are going to detach the radiator from the wall and drill in screws there (into the drywall) and plaster that. THEN, Fredrik will start sanding. And after that, we will finally be ready to continue to the next step. :)
I really wanted to have a short bookcase to put in the room, for baby books and toys. We were going to get something cheap from IKEA (the cheapest thing we could find) - but when we were at the summer house a few weekends ago visiting with Fredrik's parents, he asked if we could steal a short bookcase from there. And farmor gladly agreed. :) Fredrik's grandfather made it (morfar) many, many years ago from sugar boxes. So we will just sand it and repaint it and it will be passed on to another generation. :)
And I was supposed to share pictures of the blanket that I'm making:
Fredrik and I picked this yarn out while we were on one of our trips to Estonia. (They have really, really cheap yarn there!) I didn't have the correct amount of yarn per color to complete the book pattern - so I took the main.. idea of the pattern and made my own pattern! It is a little too narrow, I wish I had made it wider, but I will continue in length until the yarn runs out. But the narrowness will make it good to tuck Karl-Astrid into the carseat. :)
I like it, though. :) I think it is purdy. :))
And of course, to close with a picture of Mr. Kitties sleeping:
32nd Week of Pregnancy
What changes are occurring with your body?
The top of your uterus can now be measured about 5 inches above your belly button. Because the top of your uterus is so high, you may begin to have trouble breathing or feel short of breath. This is due to the pressure that your growing uterus is placing on your diaphragm. This same pressure may also cause an increased amount of heartburn.
Most likely you are gaining about a pound per week. Your blood volume has increased by 40% to 50% during the past 32 weeks. This allows your body to accommodate both you and your baby. This increased volume is also important because it makes up for the amount of blood you will lose during delivery.
How big is your baby?
Your baby is anywhere from 15 to 17 inches (38-43 cm) long and weighs between 4 and 4 ½ pounds (1 800 - 2 025 g).
What is happening with your baby?
Your baby is continuing to grow. His/her toenails and fingernails have formed. The lungs are continuing to mature but will not reach full maturity for several more weeks. Your baby’s skeleton has completely formed, but his/her bones are very soft and pliable.
What should you plan for this week?
If you have had a complication free pregnancy, you most likely have been seeing your healthcare provider on a monthly basis. Around this time though, your healthcare provider will ask you to begin making visits every two weeks. This will continue over the next four weeks, and then you will begin going once a week.
The top of your uterus can now be measured about 5 inches above your belly button. Because the top of your uterus is so high, you may begin to have trouble breathing or feel short of breath. This is due to the pressure that your growing uterus is placing on your diaphragm. This same pressure may also cause an increased amount of heartburn.
Most likely you are gaining about a pound per week. Your blood volume has increased by 40% to 50% during the past 32 weeks. This allows your body to accommodate both you and your baby. This increased volume is also important because it makes up for the amount of blood you will lose during delivery.
How big is your baby?
Your baby is anywhere from 15 to 17 inches (38-43 cm) long and weighs between 4 and 4 ½ pounds (1 800 - 2 025 g).
What is happening with your baby?
Your baby is continuing to grow. His/her toenails and fingernails have formed. The lungs are continuing to mature but will not reach full maturity for several more weeks. Your baby’s skeleton has completely formed, but his/her bones are very soft and pliable.
What should you plan for this week?
If you have had a complication free pregnancy, you most likely have been seeing your healthcare provider on a monthly basis. Around this time though, your healthcare provider will ask you to begin making visits every two weeks. This will continue over the next four weeks, and then you will begin going once a week.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Presents galore!
We received a package from Mormor and Morfar today with some baby stuff. :)
A fleece blanket - very soft and cuddly.
Some baby pants. :) We have lots of onesies, but the pants are important, too. So these will come in very handy.
Two long length gowns that the baby can wear for a VERY long time. Something for Baby to grow into. A bib and a burp cloth. And when looking at this, I realized that we don't have any receiving blankets/burp cloths.. :/ :)) So, we need to add that to our shopping list. And another set of 4 newborn t-shirts and an adorable set of booties that Fredrik absolutely fell in-love with. (He loves the little baby shoes.) :)
A set of 6 baby socks (try to keep the washer from eating them). And a musical toy from IKEA. :) My parents took a day trip to a nearby State with some friends to go shopping at IKEA.
And the toy that I wanted. :)) I'm one that isn't into having sooo many toys for children. But this one was a must-have!
I'm anxious for the baby to show up, so we can buy something other than green clothes! :D
And I lost yesterday.. :( I didn't get to watch Law & Order.. :)))
So instead I worked on a baby blanket that I'm making. :) (I'll try to get a picture of that on here as well as the baby's room.)
I didn't work on the room at all today - today we are taking a break. :) Tomorrow I will start working again and see how far I get.
The security system was installed today! Very pleased with that. :) It will very much be worth the money. And it is very easy to work. The guy that was here was very nice. And he definately knew the best place to put everything, especially the camera.
Some very close friends where my parents go to church have a 9 month old boy, and they have offered to let us borrow all of their stuff when we visit in December. And that is super nice! :) So we will have a carseat and stroller to use and not have to worry about all of that. They knew that we couldn't bring our stuff with us and wanted to help us out. :) Very sweet. :)
And along with the baby presents, we received some movies for our anniversary, and I think that we are going to watch one very soon. :) So, I should go get ready for that!
I'm anxious for the baby to show up, so we can buy something other than green clothes! :D
And I lost yesterday.. :( I didn't get to watch Law & Order.. :)))
So instead I worked on a baby blanket that I'm making. :) (I'll try to get a picture of that on here as well as the baby's room.)
I didn't work on the room at all today - today we are taking a break. :) Tomorrow I will start working again and see how far I get.
The security system was installed today! Very pleased with that. :) It will very much be worth the money. And it is very easy to work. The guy that was here was very nice. And he definately knew the best place to put everything, especially the camera.
Some very close friends where my parents go to church have a 9 month old boy, and they have offered to let us borrow all of their stuff when we visit in December. And that is super nice! :) So we will have a carseat and stroller to use and not have to worry about all of that. They knew that we couldn't bring our stuff with us and wanted to help us out. :) Very sweet. :)
And along with the baby presents, we received some movies for our anniversary, and I think that we are going to watch one very soon. :) So, I should go get ready for that!
Week 32
Your baby measures about 18.9 inches (48 cm) long from head to toe and weighs almost 4 pounds (1 800 g). It fills almost all the space in your uterus now, either lying with the head up or sometimes still with enough room to do somersaults. A layer of fat is forming underneath the thin, wrinkly skin. Baby's practicing opening his eyes and breathing.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
T-60 days.
We are now into the 8th month.. :)
Forgot to mention yesterday that at the parent group, out of the 7 couples, we were the only married couple.
We are doing well today. :) I just finished up the plaster on the drywall. (Fredrik spent the afternoon mowing.) Not sure if I am going to wait a day and make sure everything is dry before starting a second layer of plaster (where needed). I guess I will know tomorrow when I look at everything. :)
Our midwife appointment went well today. :) The appointment was at 14.30, but we didn't get in to see her until 15.00.. :/ :)
She tested my urine and no protein, so she didn't do a glucose test or iron test. Blood pressure was 130/65. And baby's heartbeat started high at 158-159, and then slowed down to 150-155, she gave an average of 154. (She tried to get the heartbeat on the left side - but as always..... Baby was on the right side.) :)
She asked if we enjoyed the meeting yesterday and asked if I am always so quiet and never say anything. :D
Took my weight, and it was right about the same as last time, and she asked if I was eating. :P
And she said that as long as I don't lose weight.. (A little different opinion than my first midwife, huh?)
She gave us some info books about the Maternity Ward at our hospital, and a number to call to reserve our rental car seat. And she said I can go ahead and fill out what I would like (or wouldn't like) during our stay at the hospital, the Birthing Plan.
Next appointment is Monday, September 3rd. :)
Tomorrow I will try to put up some updated pictures of the room. Fredrik is putting his foot down about not letting me do the sanding of the plaster.. :P He won't even let me in the room. (The stuff is pretty bad for you I guess.) So, after I finish the second layer (at least something that I can do during the days to make the whole process faster) of plaster, he will start sanding, then we will put a layer of thick.. paper stuff.. :/ :) Then paint the ceiling and the fireplace. Paint the walls, and then finally the flooring and then the molding.. *pant*pant*pant*
We actually might have figured out what color we want to use in the room! While we were in the store today buying more plaster, Fredrik said he is afraid that a too light color will just be too bright. There are two windows in two different directions, giving the room light all day long ... So, we found a very nice dark shade of green (close to sage I guess), and I think we might go with this one. Maybe best to go with the first one we like, instead of finding 5 others that are also "okay" and then taking a month to decide... :/ :)
Blah blah blah.. :P Have to go fight Fredrik for the TV.. Law & Order is on soon, and so is a football match at the same time...
Forgot to mention yesterday that at the parent group, out of the 7 couples, we were the only married couple.
We are doing well today. :) I just finished up the plaster on the drywall. (Fredrik spent the afternoon mowing.) Not sure if I am going to wait a day and make sure everything is dry before starting a second layer of plaster (where needed). I guess I will know tomorrow when I look at everything. :)
Our midwife appointment went well today. :) The appointment was at 14.30, but we didn't get in to see her until 15.00.. :/ :)
She tested my urine and no protein, so she didn't do a glucose test or iron test. Blood pressure was 130/65. And baby's heartbeat started high at 158-159, and then slowed down to 150-155, she gave an average of 154. (She tried to get the heartbeat on the left side - but as always..... Baby was on the right side.) :)
She asked if we enjoyed the meeting yesterday and asked if I am always so quiet and never say anything. :D
Took my weight, and it was right about the same as last time, and she asked if I was eating. :P
And she said that as long as I don't lose weight.. (A little different opinion than my first midwife, huh?)
She gave us some info books about the Maternity Ward at our hospital, and a number to call to reserve our rental car seat. And she said I can go ahead and fill out what I would like (or wouldn't like) during our stay at the hospital, the Birthing Plan.
Next appointment is Monday, September 3rd. :)
Tomorrow I will try to put up some updated pictures of the room. Fredrik is putting his foot down about not letting me do the sanding of the plaster.. :P He won't even let me in the room. (The stuff is pretty bad for you I guess.) So, after I finish the second layer (at least something that I can do during the days to make the whole process faster) of plaster, he will start sanding, then we will put a layer of thick.. paper stuff.. :/ :) Then paint the ceiling and the fireplace. Paint the walls, and then finally the flooring and then the molding.. *pant*pant*pant*
We actually might have figured out what color we want to use in the room! While we were in the store today buying more plaster, Fredrik said he is afraid that a too light color will just be too bright. There are two windows in two different directions, giving the room light all day long ... So, we found a very nice dark shade of green (close to sage I guess), and I think we might go with this one. Maybe best to go with the first one we like, instead of finding 5 others that are also "okay" and then taking a month to decide... :/ :)
Blah blah blah.. :P Have to go fight Fredrik for the TV.. Law & Order is on soon, and so is a football match at the same time...
Monday, August 13, 2007
Parent group meeting.
Fredrik is drilling in the last bit of screws now. We ran out last night, so he bought some on his way home today. And I spent today filling in holes, etc in the drywall. I enjoy doing it, actually. :) I have a bit of a.. compulsive disorder, so it suits me well to make sure everything is filled in evenly.. :/ :))
We had our parent group instruction meeting today. :) It was fun. :) I didn't say much of course. :/ :) Fredrik actually said a few things when the men split off to their group. :)
We started the meeting by introductions. :) I said my name and where I am from and then I said that I don't say much in Swedish and that my husband would be doing all of that. :D
There were... 7 pregnant women. :) All but 2 had their significant others with them. The first is due in about 2 weeks. And we are by far the last due. The closest date to ours is the beginning of October.
And we got together with our significant other and discussed a few questions. And then we had a little snack. We then split into a men/women group and just chatted about a bit of stuff. And then we got together with our significant other and we had to draw a picture of what we think the child will look like. :D Which was.. a lot of fun. :)
We gave the child a puff of blonde hair on the top of its head (like Butters), green eyes, and we put the child in a red dress, and named her Freja. :) And then we were supposed to decided how we think the child will be: astronaut or sports star, etc.. And we drew some books and Fredrik explained that we are determined the child will be a nerd. (That it is inevitable.)
And then when we have our first meeting with our children, we will get the picture back and then compair our picture to the child.. :D Should be fun. :)
Then we did some relaxation breathing. And we were supposed to receive homework but we went over time with almost ½ an hour, so they just let us go.
It was fun. :) I wish I wasn't so shy and talked more.. :/ :) But it is a little difficult when most of the people know each other already or recognize each other.
One woman already has a little boy (maybe 2 yo), and another woman had 2 children (10 yo & 6 yo), and she was having twins!.
The next meeting is in 2 weeks, but at a better time from 5-7. And tomorrow we have our midwife appointment.
And I keep forgetting to share this, but we have bought a car. :) On Friday we went ahead and fixed the papers for the Volvo. So, some time this week we will exchange cars. :) He gave us what we expected for our car, and then he took off 4000 sek (600$) off the price of the car we bought, so, not too bad a deal.
I think in a way we are sorta releaved to switch cars.. :/ :) Like Fredrik said today, having the BMW, we are so... careful and worried all the time about any little scratch, etc... Not like we won't be careful with the Volvo, but at least we won't.. stress about something happening to it.. :/ :))
So, we bought a 2005 Volvo V70 2.5T (210hp). :) I don't have any pictures to share because they already took it off the internet by Saturday morning ... so you'll just have to wait! :) But it is dark gray metallic, half-leather seats, it has a hitch, engine warmer (which is great for winter), etc.. etc.. We are happy that the interior is dark, much, much easier to keep clean, especially with baby spills. :) I think we are going to be very happy with our new family car. :)
So, now our insurance and taxes for the car will be MUCH less.. :/ :) Thank goodness we haven't had to pay the insurance yet, as it is almost 10 000 sek ( ~1500$).
Trying to think if there is anything else that I've forgotten to mention...
Barely 2 months left now before Karl-Astrid will decide to show up. :) We've been sending telepathic messages that he/she is more than welcome to show up any time after our 38th week. :)))
We had our parent group instruction meeting today. :) It was fun. :) I didn't say much of course. :/ :) Fredrik actually said a few things when the men split off to their group. :)
We started the meeting by introductions. :) I said my name and where I am from and then I said that I don't say much in Swedish and that my husband would be doing all of that. :D
There were... 7 pregnant women. :) All but 2 had their significant others with them. The first is due in about 2 weeks. And we are by far the last due. The closest date to ours is the beginning of October.
And we got together with our significant other and discussed a few questions. And then we had a little snack. We then split into a men/women group and just chatted about a bit of stuff. And then we got together with our significant other and we had to draw a picture of what we think the child will look like. :D Which was.. a lot of fun. :)
We gave the child a puff of blonde hair on the top of its head (like Butters), green eyes, and we put the child in a red dress, and named her Freja. :) And then we were supposed to decided how we think the child will be: astronaut or sports star, etc.. And we drew some books and Fredrik explained that we are determined the child will be a nerd. (That it is inevitable.)
And then when we have our first meeting with our children, we will get the picture back and then compair our picture to the child.. :D Should be fun. :)
Then we did some relaxation breathing. And we were supposed to receive homework but we went over time with almost ½ an hour, so they just let us go.
It was fun. :) I wish I wasn't so shy and talked more.. :/ :) But it is a little difficult when most of the people know each other already or recognize each other.
One woman already has a little boy (maybe 2 yo), and another woman had 2 children (10 yo & 6 yo), and she was having twins!.
The next meeting is in 2 weeks, but at a better time from 5-7. And tomorrow we have our midwife appointment.
And I keep forgetting to share this, but we have bought a car. :) On Friday we went ahead and fixed the papers for the Volvo. So, some time this week we will exchange cars. :) He gave us what we expected for our car, and then he took off 4000 sek (600$) off the price of the car we bought, so, not too bad a deal.
I think in a way we are sorta releaved to switch cars.. :/ :) Like Fredrik said today, having the BMW, we are so... careful and worried all the time about any little scratch, etc... Not like we won't be careful with the Volvo, but at least we won't.. stress about something happening to it.. :/ :))
So, we bought a 2005 Volvo V70 2.5T (210hp). :) I don't have any pictures to share because they already took it off the internet by Saturday morning ... so you'll just have to wait! :) But it is dark gray metallic, half-leather seats, it has a hitch, engine warmer (which is great for winter), etc.. etc.. We are happy that the interior is dark, much, much easier to keep clean, especially with baby spills. :) I think we are going to be very happy with our new family car. :)
So, now our insurance and taxes for the car will be MUCH less.. :/ :) Thank goodness we haven't had to pay the insurance yet, as it is almost 10 000 sek ( ~1500$).
Trying to think if there is anything else that I've forgotten to mention...
Barely 2 months left now before Karl-Astrid will decide to show up. :) We've been sending telepathic messages that he/she is more than welcome to show up any time after our 38th week. :)))
Sunday, August 12, 2007
31 weeks
This week, your baby measures about 16 inches long. He weighs a little over 3 pounds and is heading into a growth spurt. He can turn his head from side to side, and his arms, legs, and body are beginning to plump out as needed fat accumulates underneath his skin. He's probably moving a lot, too, so you may have trouble sleeping because your baby's kicks and somersaults keep you up. Take comfort: All this moving is a sign that your baby is active and healthy.
Renovation update.
So, here are some newer pictures of our progress. :)
We took up the flooring on Friday.
Beautiful flooring underneath. But not well enough kept to be able to use. The floor is so uneven and so badly done, that there really isn't any way to try to even it out, just hope for the best. :/ :)
There is also wood behind the walls.
A very thin layer of drywall to help even out the walls and make it easier to paint later.
Last night Fredrik screwed in lots of screws into the drywall and I measured the rest of the walls. Fredrik's parents have joined us again today, so we hope to get a bit more done (even though the battery powered drill has decided it doesn't want to work). :/ :))
And we've decided to not replace the radiator! Because we'd have to have a plumber come and do it and we just aren't interested in that.. :/ :))
Fredrik was freaked out again this morning while laying in bed with his hand on my tummy feeling the baby move. :))
I'm hungry.. :/ :) Going to have to eat something. :P Only grabbed a banana and some milk for breakfast.
Last night Fredrik screwed in lots of screws into the drywall and I measured the rest of the walls. Fredrik's parents have joined us again today, so we hope to get a bit more done (even though the battery powered drill has decided it doesn't want to work). :/ :))
And we've decided to not replace the radiator! Because we'd have to have a plumber come and do it and we just aren't interested in that.. :/ :))
Fredrik was freaked out again this morning while laying in bed with his hand on my tummy feeling the baby move. :))
I'm hungry.. :/ :) Going to have to eat something. :P Only grabbed a banana and some milk for breakfast.
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Friday, August 10, 2007
Very nice evening. :)
I had a very nice evening yesterday and I think Fredrik did, too. :)
He got home a bit late, though. :( But we were fine with time. :) The Belgians made him run to Trollhättan to pick up some equipment they "need." So he didn't get home until 17.00. But we got gone quickly and ate on the way. And we were able to go by a building store and we bought the flooring for the room! 300 sek for 1.2 sq.meters (45$ for 16 sq.feet). We bought 11 boxes, for 13.2 sq.meters (176 sq.feet). And that should be slightly more than what we need for the room (the room is 13 sq.meters). We had almost 2 full boxes left last time we did a room, so we decided to buy as close as possible to the needed amount (cause we don't make mistakes). ;) So about 3500 sek for the flooring, and we don't think that is too bad. :) (500$ for 175 sq.feet). We managed to get the same exact kind as we had in the other room! :) So we are very happy about that. (And it is thick flooring, 14 mm.)
So the room is going to look fantastic. ;) :))
And we went to the movie place and picked up our preordered tickets. The movie was great! :) It could have easily been 3 hours longer to get all the plot aspects in, but they did as well as they could. It is the thickest book of the series, and the plot is completely full ... so it is impossible to get everything in there. But the effects were great, and of course the actors, as well. :)
We got home around 00.30 and the stars were bright and beautiful last night. :) (I studied astronomy in school, and I became very hooked, and I love looking at the stars and planets - I've even had the pleasure of seeing Saturn's rings, thanks to my teacher.) :)
Karl-Astrid has the hiccups right now.. :/ He/she gets them at least once a day. :/ :) It just feels like a very rhythmic, soft thumping in my belly. :) And of course they always come from my right side, where they head ususally is.
Caesar was very klingy when we got home last night. He didn't want to go out, and when we got in bed, he joined us! And slept with us. So I think he missed us. :/ :) He doesn't usually sleep with us, unless there is one of us in bed.
Fredrik's parents will be joining us tomorrow.
Oooh..! Fredrik finally got ahold of the car place yesterday! And since Fredrik was going by where the car is located, he decided to stop and look at it and it looked great. He called me today and suggested that we go and take a look at it (in Mellerud) and test drive it and let them see our car. And see when we can do a car switch. :) So, I suppose it is ours if we decide we like it. :) Hopefully we can get everything taken care of as soon as we can. Some good news!
He got home a bit late, though. :( But we were fine with time. :) The Belgians made him run to Trollhättan to pick up some equipment they "need." So he didn't get home until 17.00. But we got gone quickly and ate on the way. And we were able to go by a building store and we bought the flooring for the room! 300 sek for 1.2 sq.meters (45$ for 16 sq.feet). We bought 11 boxes, for 13.2 sq.meters (176 sq.feet). And that should be slightly more than what we need for the room (the room is 13 sq.meters). We had almost 2 full boxes left last time we did a room, so we decided to buy as close as possible to the needed amount (cause we don't make mistakes). ;) So about 3500 sek for the flooring, and we don't think that is too bad. :) (500$ for 175 sq.feet). We managed to get the same exact kind as we had in the other room! :) So we are very happy about that. (And it is thick flooring, 14 mm.)
So the room is going to look fantastic. ;) :))
And we went to the movie place and picked up our preordered tickets. The movie was great! :) It could have easily been 3 hours longer to get all the plot aspects in, but they did as well as they could. It is the thickest book of the series, and the plot is completely full ... so it is impossible to get everything in there. But the effects were great, and of course the actors, as well. :)
We got home around 00.30 and the stars were bright and beautiful last night. :) (I studied astronomy in school, and I became very hooked, and I love looking at the stars and planets - I've even had the pleasure of seeing Saturn's rings, thanks to my teacher.) :)
Karl-Astrid has the hiccups right now.. :/ He/she gets them at least once a day. :/ :) It just feels like a very rhythmic, soft thumping in my belly. :) And of course they always come from my right side, where they head ususally is.
Caesar was very klingy when we got home last night. He didn't want to go out, and when we got in bed, he joined us! And slept with us. So I think he missed us. :/ :) He doesn't usually sleep with us, unless there is one of us in bed.
Fredrik's parents will be joining us tomorrow.
Oooh..! Fredrik finally got ahold of the car place yesterday! And since Fredrik was going by where the car is located, he decided to stop and look at it and it looked great. He called me today and suggested that we go and take a look at it (in Mellerud) and test drive it and let them see our car. And see when we can do a car switch. :) So, I suppose it is ours if we decide we like it. :) Hopefully we can get everything taken care of as soon as we can. Some good news!
31st Week of Pregnancy
What changes are occurring with your body?
You may have noticed a yellowish or creamy substance that has begun to leak from your breasts. This substance is called colostrum or pre-milk. Colostrum is the first stage of breast milk that occurs during pregnancy and lasts for several days after the birth of the baby. It is also much thicker than the milk that is produced later in breastfeeding.
Not all women leak colostrum, but either way, this is considered normal. You may notice that the leaking only occurs at certain times of the day. If you experience leaking during the day, you may want to invest in some nursing pads that can be placed in your bra to absorb the colostrum.
Many women begin to experience Braxton Hicks contractions during the last several weeks of pregnancy. Braxton Hicks contractions can begin as early as the second trimester; however, they are most common in the third trimester. The muscles of your uterus tighten for approximately 30 to 60 seconds or as long as 2 minutes. Braxton Hicks are also called "practice contractions" because they will prepare you for the real thing, and you can practice the breathing exercises you are learning in your childbirth classes.
How big is your baby?
Your baby is continuing to grow and has reached 15 inches (38 cm) in length and weighs anywhere from 3 ½ to 4 pounds (1575-1800 g).
What is happening with your baby?
Your baby is continuing to develop a layer of fat under his/her skin. This is in preparation for his/her arrival into the world and gives the baby more of a newborn appearance. During the next several weeks your baby will really begin to put on the weight. Remember the average size of a newborn is about 7 ½ pounds (3420 g) and 19 to 21 inches long (48-53 cm).
You may have noticed a yellowish or creamy substance that has begun to leak from your breasts. This substance is called colostrum or pre-milk. Colostrum is the first stage of breast milk that occurs during pregnancy and lasts for several days after the birth of the baby. It is also much thicker than the milk that is produced later in breastfeeding.
Not all women leak colostrum, but either way, this is considered normal. You may notice that the leaking only occurs at certain times of the day. If you experience leaking during the day, you may want to invest in some nursing pads that can be placed in your bra to absorb the colostrum.
Many women begin to experience Braxton Hicks contractions during the last several weeks of pregnancy. Braxton Hicks contractions can begin as early as the second trimester; however, they are most common in the third trimester. The muscles of your uterus tighten for approximately 30 to 60 seconds or as long as 2 minutes. Braxton Hicks are also called "practice contractions" because they will prepare you for the real thing, and you can practice the breathing exercises you are learning in your childbirth classes.
How big is your baby?
Your baby is continuing to grow and has reached 15 inches (38 cm) in length and weighs anywhere from 3 ½ to 4 pounds (1575-1800 g).
What is happening with your baby?
Your baby is continuing to develop a layer of fat under his/her skin. This is in preparation for his/her arrival into the world and gives the baby more of a newborn appearance. During the next several weeks your baby will really begin to put on the weight. Remember the average size of a newborn is about 7 ½ pounds (3420 g) and 19 to 21 inches long (48-53 cm).
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Happy Anniversary, Älskling! :)
I woke up to a very nice e-mail this morning that Fredrik sent from work. :)
4 years today we have been married. :)
He is going to try to come home a bit early from work, if he can, so that we can leave asap and look around as much as possible in town.
And it seems like we are having a security system installed. :/ :))
A woman came by about a week after we moved in and wanted to talk about it and I said I had no idea, and she said she would come back in a month. She came back and I said we really weren't that interested right now, and she said she would come back in another month ... and she came back yesterday evening. And Fredrik gave in and let her come in and give her presentation.
It took over an hour.. :/ :) And the price was very decent (1000$ for installation / 7500SEK) and then 250 sek a month (35$) fee. And we will get a lower cost then for our homeowners insurance because of the security system. So it will probably even out the monthly cost in the end. We thought it might not hurt with our month long visit to the US in December. And with the baby showing up, we will be taking longer and longer trips to the US, and longer trips to the summer house.
So we will get a system installed with magnetic detectors on our 3 house-exiting doors. And also a camera installed inside the house (house-pet proof) when the alarm is turned on. And a smoke detector that will be their responsibility to make sure it always works properly and the battery is working. And a couple of key-chain button things, that I have no idea what are for and I forgot to ask Fredrik about.. :P
She looked around in every room.. I think she was just nosy.. :D She was absolutely in-love with the house, and was looking at everything else more than the doors and windows.. :/ :) But she was pleasant. And it will be installed next Wednesday by a guy named Lennart.
4 years today we have been married. :)
He is going to try to come home a bit early from work, if he can, so that we can leave asap and look around as much as possible in town.
And it seems like we are having a security system installed. :/ :))
A woman came by about a week after we moved in and wanted to talk about it and I said I had no idea, and she said she would come back in a month. She came back and I said we really weren't that interested right now, and she said she would come back in another month ... and she came back yesterday evening. And Fredrik gave in and let her come in and give her presentation.
It took over an hour.. :/ :) And the price was very decent (1000$ for installation / 7500SEK) and then 250 sek a month (35$) fee. And we will get a lower cost then for our homeowners insurance because of the security system. So it will probably even out the monthly cost in the end. We thought it might not hurt with our month long visit to the US in December. And with the baby showing up, we will be taking longer and longer trips to the US, and longer trips to the summer house.
So we will get a system installed with magnetic detectors on our 3 house-exiting doors. And also a camera installed inside the house (house-pet proof) when the alarm is turned on. And a smoke detector that will be their responsibility to make sure it always works properly and the battery is working. And a couple of key-chain button things, that I have no idea what are for and I forgot to ask Fredrik about.. :P
She looked around in every room.. I think she was just nosy.. :D She was absolutely in-love with the house, and was looking at everything else more than the doors and windows.. :/ :) But she was pleasant. And it will be installed next Wednesday by a guy named Lennart.
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Week 31
Your baby measures about 18 inches long (45,7 cm) from head to toe and weighs about 3.5 pounds (1575 g). Rather than hearing vibrations, baby's nerve endings in his ears are connected now so that he can hear distinct sounds, like familiar voices and music.
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Kall sommar - små bebisar
Cold summer - small babies
I hope my translation will suffice:
En kall sommar ökar risken för extrem undervikt hos nyfödda. Det visar en undersökning av hur svenskars hälsa påverkas av vädret. Blivande mödrar kan må sämre och ha svårare att återhämta sig under kyliga sommarmånader, jämfört med varma. Tidigare forskning har visat att dåligt väder påverkar stressnivån i kroppen och kan därmed även orsaka för tidiga födslar.
I hope my translation will suffice:
A cold summer increases the risk for extreme under weight in new born babies. A study shows how Swede's health is influenced by the weather. Expecting mothers can feel worse and have more difficult pregnancies during cooler summer months, compared with warmer months. Earlier research has shown that bad weather influences the stress level in the body and can even cause premature labor/births.
Icky.
I feel sorta icky today.. :/ Not sure why. Maybe an upset stomach combined with the heat..
It is a bit warm today ... and the house gets so stuffy. :/ It is cooler upstairs, so I went up there for awhile.
We worked on the room some yesterday. I tore off more of the walls and Fredrik took off the last bit of molding and the window frame. This week we hope to paint the ceiling and tear up the flooring.
We are a bit displeased with how the walls look. The texture isn't so great, so we have a different plan of what to do with the walls: add a very thin layer of walling in the entire room. That way we have nice flat, even walls, and we can just paint over that. Annoyingly, the crowning is attached to the ceiling, it is a built-in, fixed thing, and it isn't removable. So, that makes everything a little more interesting.. :/ :)
But the biggest job is still going to be to even out the floors, or make them better. You can just look at the floor and see the slanting.. :/ Farmor and Farfar are coming over on Friday, and we hope to get some tips from Farfar on how to fix the floor well. And hopefully Farfar can help us take out the radiator, so we can paint behind it and then replace it as well.
Updated pictures of the room:
Of course the baby's room has the best view of the lake.. :P :)
Of course after the trees filled in, the view is a bit more blocked. :) But we definately have the best view on the hill. :)
We received a paper in the mail today about our parent classes! That starts on August 13th, from 16-18.00. So, Fredrik will have to come home a bit early. They will go over stuff about delivery, breast feeding and parenting in general. It should be fun. :) Everyone there is expecting around the same time. We will meet 5 or so times. And then start meeting up again after the last baby is born and then continue the meetings for the first year or so. So, it will be a good little play-date for the baby and a great way for us to meet some people and hopefully make some friends. :)
We've been trying to figure out what to do for our anniversary. We both had forgotten about it, and my mom called and remined me about it by asking if they could send us a few movies as a present (which we gratefully accepted). So, we were figuring to just go to a café/restaurant in town or something for dinner. But last night Fredrik suggested we go to Karlstad (about an hour away) and see the new Harry Potter film! And have something for dinner there before the movie. The move time we'd have to go to is the 9PM showing.. :/ :)) The only other showing before that is at 6, and that doesn't give us enough time for him to get home and shower and for us to get to the town and have dinner and get to the movie. So, now we have plenty of time to eat and hopefully look around in the town, and maybe buy the flooring for the room.
Fredrik is slightly worried about me having to go pee during the movie.. :P (2h15m) And I told him I would hold it. :/ :))
Our first anniversary we rented a house a bit farther north in Sweden and spent a week there. And that was a fantastic trip. :) We went fishing and hiking and that was a lot of fun. :) Next year will be the 5th, so we hope to do something nice, then, too. :) My parents will be here, so either they can babysit, or we can take them along for a trip as well. Maybe back up north to the rented house we are "in-love" with? :) Maybe we can talk about that. :) In July, go to Denmark, and then in August a Swedish roadtrip. :)
My parents haven't been farther north than Stockholm! So, we need to take them at least a bit farther up.
Nothing is more beautiful than northern Sweden ... except maybe Norway.. ;) :))
A handful of my pictures from the trip.
It is a bit warm today ... and the house gets so stuffy. :/ It is cooler upstairs, so I went up there for awhile.
We worked on the room some yesterday. I tore off more of the walls and Fredrik took off the last bit of molding and the window frame. This week we hope to paint the ceiling and tear up the flooring.
We are a bit displeased with how the walls look. The texture isn't so great, so we have a different plan of what to do with the walls: add a very thin layer of walling in the entire room. That way we have nice flat, even walls, and we can just paint over that. Annoyingly, the crowning is attached to the ceiling, it is a built-in, fixed thing, and it isn't removable. So, that makes everything a little more interesting.. :/ :)
But the biggest job is still going to be to even out the floors, or make them better. You can just look at the floor and see the slanting.. :/ Farmor and Farfar are coming over on Friday, and we hope to get some tips from Farfar on how to fix the floor well. And hopefully Farfar can help us take out the radiator, so we can paint behind it and then replace it as well.
Updated pictures of the room:
Of course the baby's room has the best view of the lake.. :P :)
Of course after the trees filled in, the view is a bit more blocked. :) But we definately have the best view on the hill. :)
We received a paper in the mail today about our parent classes! That starts on August 13th, from 16-18.00. So, Fredrik will have to come home a bit early. They will go over stuff about delivery, breast feeding and parenting in general. It should be fun. :) Everyone there is expecting around the same time. We will meet 5 or so times. And then start meeting up again after the last baby is born and then continue the meetings for the first year or so. So, it will be a good little play-date for the baby and a great way for us to meet some people and hopefully make some friends. :)
We've been trying to figure out what to do for our anniversary. We both had forgotten about it, and my mom called and remined me about it by asking if they could send us a few movies as a present (which we gratefully accepted). So, we were figuring to just go to a café/restaurant in town or something for dinner. But last night Fredrik suggested we go to Karlstad (about an hour away) and see the new Harry Potter film! And have something for dinner there before the movie. The move time we'd have to go to is the 9PM showing.. :/ :)) The only other showing before that is at 6, and that doesn't give us enough time for him to get home and shower and for us to get to the town and have dinner and get to the movie. So, now we have plenty of time to eat and hopefully look around in the town, and maybe buy the flooring for the room.
Fredrik is slightly worried about me having to go pee during the movie.. :P (2h15m) And I told him I would hold it. :/ :))
Our first anniversary we rented a house a bit farther north in Sweden and spent a week there. And that was a fantastic trip. :) We went fishing and hiking and that was a lot of fun. :) Next year will be the 5th, so we hope to do something nice, then, too. :) My parents will be here, so either they can babysit, or we can take them along for a trip as well. Maybe back up north to the rented house we are "in-love" with? :) Maybe we can talk about that. :) In July, go to Denmark, and then in August a Swedish roadtrip. :)
My parents haven't been farther north than Stockholm! So, we need to take them at least a bit farther up.
Nothing is more beautiful than northern Sweden ... except maybe Norway.. ;) :))
A handful of my pictures from the trip.
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