Oh-Baby

Special Moments

2011-12-14T17:49:00.000-08:00

I remember when I first got pregnant and I was experiencing scary troubles that made me terrified for my baby. I was so scared that I was going to lose this baby and I felt so helpless to do anything about it. So I did what I could, I talked to my baby. I rubbed my belly and begged my baby to hold on in there. I promised that there was a wonderful family waiting out here to love him/her and all the baby had to do was hold on. Well, I am over half-way through this pregnancy now and we are holding on together. And this evening, while my son was kicking me, I looked down and wrapped my arms around my belly (this is the closest I could get to holding my baby boy) and we talked again. I thanked him for holding on, I thanked him for being strong. With tears in my eyes, I talked to him and he kicked and squirmed like he was trying to talk back. It may seem a bit silly but it was wonderful as I loved on my baby, so grateful that we get to go through this together and that soon, I will get to hold him for real.

Special Moments

2011-12-10T16:27:00.000-08:00

I love the active moments. I love the moments when my little man is in there, kicking and poking and making himself known. It feels like a private conversation between he and I. I feel so bonded with him in those moments. I want these moments to go on forever. It is the most special part of being a mom.

Appointment

2011-12-08T18:58:00.000-08:00

I saw my doctor today. My blood sugars are stable enough for now, my blood pressure is fine, and I haven't gained any weight in 3 weeks. I have gained enough overall for us not to be concerned about it. And my little prince is doing fine in there. So all in all, it was a good appointment.

Trying

2011-12-07T17:09:00.000-08:00

I am trying hard to eat healthy and do the best I can. I do have to tell you that it is HARD when I am pregnant. And . . . to be honest, I don't always succeed. When I am craving something bad for me, it is so much harder to resist when I am pregnant. How do other women do this??? I have no idea. I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow, I hope I didn't gain too much since my last one.

Introducing!

2011-11-25T11:19:00.000-08:00

I would like to introduce you to my New Little PRINCE!!!!! It appears I am going to be adding a some blue to my family! I am so excited to be having this adventure and I am thrilled that Prince Charming gets to be daddy to a little boy.

Today!

2011-11-25T05:32:00.001-08:00

My Ultrasound is today. Keep your fingers crossed for me that the baby shows it's wares and I get to know whether we will be a family of little princesses or whether a little prince will be joining in the fun! And that whatever the gender is, the baby is healthy!

Countdown!

2011-11-24T09:57:00.001-08:00

tomorrow by this time, I should be looking at my baby with the ultrasound technician! I hope he/she cooperates and lets me know whether to buy blue or pink!

Healthy Baby club

2011-11-18T05:51:00.000-08:00

I was out a Healthy Baby Club today. It was nice to get a chance to chat with the moms. The nurse was there this time and she had silicone models of babies at different gestational ages. I was amazing to hold a baby in my hands that was 2 weeks younger than my little monkey is right now. It looks so sweet and real, it brought tears to my eyes thinking how real it made my baby to me.

I have to admit that I have been a bit overly hormonal the last few days. I don't mean to be and I try to control my reactions, but I know that I am more sensitive and more easily overwhelmed than I usually am. When I can feel that I need help because I am sick and overwhelmed with it all, I ask Prince Charming for help and he is always quick to help. So at least he and Princess Belle are understanding. I have to give Princess Belle credit, she has been so completely helpful the last little while. She is thrilled with life right now and she is anxious to help in any way she can.

Appointment

2011-11-17T05:51:00.000-08:00

I saw my doctor again. He seems to be seeing me every two weeks, I guess that is because I am considered high risk. I don't mind, I enjoy every chance to check on my little one possible.

I told him how I changed my diet to suit me better and showed how my sugars have improved since doing so. He said it is working and we will leave well enough alone for now.

He checked my blood pressure, which isn't high right now. He did say that my dizzy spells were related to my blood pressure and to make sure to sit down and be careful when I get them.

I should be able to get a good Ultrasound view of my baby next week. I can't wait to see if I have another girl or if I am having a boy!

Reminiscing

2011-11-16T05:50:00.000-08:00

It is late and I am tired, but I was just thinking and remembering bringing my babies home from the hospital, the wonder of it, the joy of it. I am so blessed to be doing this again. All of my babies have worn the same pair of snugly jammies home from the hospital. I have them hung up on the wall in the girls room. I guess it won't be long before, I have to take them down, wash them and pack them up in a bag to be worn again. Do you get honestly think anyone could be any more lucky than me??

Look at those chubby cheeks! Too bad they didn't stay that way, they look absolutely munchable!

Tuesday Talk

2011-11-15T05:48:00.000-08:00

I walked down the mall today. And let me tell you this pregnant body does not move like it used to. Before I was pregnant, I walked down there, almost every day, sometimes more than once if I felt like getting out of the house for a while. But, today? By the time I got back, I was walking at a snails pace, holding my back and my hips! I was sooo sore!!!! Who knew that walking could hurt my back like that??

On the upside, I dropped by the Sears Optical here in St. John's to check on the progress of my glasses prescription. he had me pick out frames while I was there. Scott, the man who works there was wonderful. He hand-picked out dozens of frames, had me try them on and was quick to put back the ones that didn't suit me. He knew what would look best on me and what would work best with my ridiculously high prescription (and thus thick lenses). He then proceeded to work magic and to get me a deal where I could get sunglasses too! And between him and the manager, they managed to get me them at NO EXTRA COST!!!! They were wonderful and helpful and really took the time to get me the best glasses for me at the best price! He doesn't get a commission, he gets paid no matter what kind of glasses I get or if I don't get any at all, but he is kind enough and diligent enough to do a wonderful job!

Changes

2011-11-14T03:47:00.000-08:00

Given that my body is rebelling against spending my pregnancy on a vegetarian diet for gestational diabetes, and given that I have been steadily gaining a lot of weight since I started trying, I have decided to make a change. I have to eat for my diabetes, but I am going to try to eat by the South Beach diet. I am going to cook this way for the whole family. Prince Charming is on board, as he wouldn't mind losing a few pounds himself. I am not going to do phase 1, as I am pregnant and I don't want to be restrictive. I simply want to concentrate on a healthy diet with good carbs and lower bad fats.

So here is my plan:

A diet including all foods from phase 1 and phase 2:

BEEF Lean*
* Lean meat has 10 gram or less total fat and 4.5 grams or less of saturated fat per 100 gram portion (30 grams is about 1 oz)
All hot dogs (beef, pork, poultry, soy) can be enjoyed occasionally (once/week) if they are at least 97% fat free (contain 3-6 grams of fat/serving).

POULTRY (SKINLESS)

SEAFOOD

PORK

SOY BASED MEAT SUBSTITUTES

CHEESE (Fat Free or Reduced Fat )

EGGS

MILK/DAIRY
DAIRY
(2-3 cups allowed daily, including yogurt)
Yogurt - artificially sweetened non-fat flavored yogurt (limit to 4 ounces daily and avoid varieties that contain high fructose corn syrup)
Greek Yogurt nonfat
Low-fat milk (fat-free and 1%)
Low-fat plain, vanilla, or artificially sweetened soy milk (4 grams of fat or less per 8 ounce serving). Be sure the product does not contain high fructose corn syrup

BEANS/LEGUMES
fresh, frozen or canned (without added sugar)
(Start with 1/3 - 1/2 cup serving)

FRUIT (3 total servings daily)
Apples - 1 small or 5 dried rings
Apricots - 4 fresh or 7 dried
Banana, medium-sized (4 oz.)
Blueberries 3/4 cup
Cantaloupe - 1/4, or 1 cup diced
Clementine 1
Grapefruit - 1/2
Grapes - 15
Honeydew 1/8 melon or 1 cup diced
Kiwi - 1
mandarin oranges 2
Oranges - 1 medium
Raspberries 3/4 cup
Strawberries 3/4 cup

VEGETABLES
may use fresh, frozen or canned without added sugar, eat a minimum of two cups with lunch and dinner

Asparagus
Broccoli
Brussels Sprouts
Cabbage (green, red, Napa, Savoy)
Cauliflower
Cucumbers
Eggplant
Garlic
Green Beans
Kale
Lettuce (All varieties)
Mushrooms (All varieties)
Onions
Parsley
Peppers (All varieties)
Radishes (All varieties)
Sauerkraut
Spinach
Squash, Spaghetti
Squash, Summer
# Yellow
# Zucchini
Tomato

NUTS AND SEEDS
(Limit to one serving per day as specified. Dry roasted recommended.)

FATS/OILS
Up to 2 Tbsp. of the following fats or oils are allowed daily.
Monounsaturated oils are particularly recommended.

Monounsaturated Oils
canola
olive (particularly extra-virgin)

Other Fat Choices:
Avocado - 1/3 whole = 1 TBS oil
Guacamole - 1/2 cup = 1 TBS oil
Mayonnaise - Regular - 1 TBS
Mayonnaise - Low Fat - 2 TBS (avoid varieties made with high fructose corn syrup)
Olives (Green or Ripe) 15 = 1/2 TBS oil
Salad Dressing - 2 TBS. Use those that contain 3 grams of sugar or less per 2 TBS. Best choices contain canola or olive oil. Low carb salad dressings may also be used if they meet these guidelines.
TRANS FAT FREE Spreads 2 TBSP.

SEASONINGS AND CONDIMENTS
All spices that contain no added sugar
Broth
Coconut Milk -Light
Lemon Juice
Salsa (check labels for added sugar)

Use the following toppings and sauces sparingly (check labels for added sugar and MSG)
Cream Cheese, fat-free or light - 2 TBS
Hot Sauce
Low carb condiments, may only be used if they are transfat free and contain no added sugar.
Sour Cream, light and reduced-fat - 2 TBS
Soy Sauce - 1/2 TBS
Steak Sauce - 1/2 TBS
taco sauce 1 Tbsp
Worcestershire Sauce - 1 TBS
Whipped Topping, Light or Fat-Free - 2 TBS

SWEET TREATS (Limit to 75-100 calories per day)
Candies, hard, sugar-free
Chocolate powder, no-added-sugar
Chocolate syrup sugar free
Cocoa powder, baking type
Fudgsicles, no sugar added
Gelatin, sugar-free
Gum, sugar-free
Jams and jellies, sugar-free
Popsicles, sugar-free
Syrups, sugar-free

BEVERAGES
Decaf Coffee and Tea
Diet, decaffeinated, sugar-free sodas and drinks
Herbal teas (peppermint, chamomile, etc.)
Note: caffeinated coffee or diet sodas with caffeine added are allowed, but limited to 1 - 2 servings per day

WHOLE GRAINS AND STARCHY VEGETABLES
(Start with one daily serving, gradually increase to up to 3 or four total servings daily.) Unless otherwise stated, choose whole grain products that have 3 grams of fiber or more per ounce.

Bagels, small, whole grain - 1/2, or 1 oz.
Barley - 1/2 cup cooked
Bread 1 oz.
Buckwheat 1/2 cooked
Cereal Cold: choose ones with 6g or more fiber and 8g or less sugar
Cereal Hot: serving sizes vary check the label for recommended amount. Choose whole grain and slow-cooking varieties (no instant types) with at least 3g fiber and no more than 2g sugar.
Couscous, whole-wheat or Israeli - 1/2 cup cooked
Crackers, whole grain with 3 grams of fiber or more per ounce and no trans fats
English muffins, whole grain - 1/2, or 1 oz. (most contain 2.5 grams of fiber per half a muffin—varieties varieties with 3 grams of fiber are the best choice.)
Pasta Whole wheat is best choice - 1/2 cup cooked (3 grams of fiber or more per 1/2 cup)
Pasta Soy is second best choice - 1/2 cup cooked (3 grams of fiber or more per 1/2 cup)
Pita, stone-ground or whole wheat - 1/2, or 1 oz. (most contain 2.5 grams of fiber—varieties with 3 grams of fiber are the best choice.)
Popcorn, 3 cups popped, Air popped, Microwave, plain, no trans fats
Potato, sweet, small (considered a starchy vegetable; count as a starch/grain serving)
Pumpkin (considered a starchy vegetable; count as a starch/grain serving)
Quinoa, 1/2 cup cooked
Rice - 1/2 cup cooked (basmati, brown regular converted or parboiled, wild)
Tortillas, 100% whole grain, 3 grams of fiber or more per ounce, no trans fats
Winter squash (considered a starchy vegetable; count as a starch/grain serving)
Yams, small (considered a starchy vegetable; count as a starch/grain serving)

OCCASIONAL TREATS
Chocolate (sparingly)
- bittersweet
- semisweet
pudding, fat free, sugar free (one serving per day permitted)

************************************************** ********
Foods to AVOID
BEEF
Brisket
Jerky, unless homemade without sugar
Liver
Prime Rib
Rib steaks
Skirt Steak

POULTRY
Chicken, wings and legs
Duck
Goose
Turkey, dark meat (including wings and thighs)

PORK
Bacon
Honey-baked ham
Pork rinds

DAIRY
Ice Cream
Milk 2% or whole
Soymilk whole
yogurt cup style and frozen

CHEESE
Full Fat

VEGETABLES
Beets
Carrots
Corn
Green peas
Potatoes, white
Potatoes, sweet
Pumpkin
Turnips (root)
Winter squash
Yams

Condiments
ketchup
cocktail sauce

BEVERAGES
Alcohol of any kind, including beer and wine
fruit juice all types
milk, full fat and 2%
powdered drink mixes containing sugar
soda and other drinks containing sugar
soymilk with more than 4g fat per 8 oz serving

************************************************** ********

Complaining!

2011-11-08T05:19:00.000-08:00

Can I just say how much I am hating the diabetic diet. It isn't the food, it is the regulation of everything. I get up, test my sugar, eat my breakfast right away. Two hours later, I test my sugar, eat my snack. Two hours later, I test my sugar and eat my lunch. Two hours later, I test my sugar and eat my snack. Two hours later, I test my sugar and eat my supper. Two hours later I test my sugar and eat my snack. Two hours later, I test my sugar and go to bed! And everything I eat has to be a certain number of carbs accompanied with protein. I hate that it is regimented. I hate that I eat when I don't want too.

I never realized before how few carbs I usually eat in the run of a day. A lot of my favorite meals are proteins like tofu accompanied by lots of carb free veggies, or just lots of veggies with a little carbs. This whole thing is taking a lot more adjusting than I thought. And with the idea that the nurse told me that she suspects I am just diabetic, this whole regimented schedule looms before me in a never ending expanse and I really don't like it.

I do it for my baby. I would do anything for my baby, but if I am a diabetic after this baby is born, I don't know if I will be able to keep this up forever!!!

Soo sick

2011-10-31T17:21:00.000-07:00

I am so very sick right now. I guess my little monkey does not enjoy me trying to sort out a way to eat to match my diabetic diet. Honestly, the biggest problem is I have to eat more often than I am used to and it is really bothering me. And today, I woke up with a headache so bad that it is making it hard to function at all. I did manage to put it aside enough to get things ready for the kids, but that was largely due to Prince Charming helping out when I just couldn't do it anymore.

Balancing

2011-10-29T16:49:00.000-07:00

I am having issues trying to adjust my diet, balancing my carbs and proteins while finding ways to fill my nutritional needs while battling the morning sickness that eating the right balances seems to bring. UGH, sickness sicks.

Thoughts

2011-10-24T09:16:00.000-07:00

I am having a moment where I can hardly believe that in a few short months, I will be holding a brand new baby in my arms. I look around at my house filled with love, laughter, adorable little faces, and little arms that wrap around my neck (or my legs) and hold on so very tightly, little hands that pat my back in a hug and I wonder how I got to be so very blessed. No matter if this lovely little person growing inside of me is a girl or a boy, I know that there will be joy unbounded when he/she arrives. The fact that I get to love and care for four little people is so special that I can't even believe how lucky I am. I may not have any money, but there is not one person in the world who is richer than I am.

Belly Pic

2011-10-23T04:51:00.000-07:00

This is really bad taken in my awful bathroom in the mirror, but here is a belly pic. I had a hard time staying completely sideways and taking the pic, I kept turning into the pic a bit and that makes my butt look GIGANTIC!

23 Quick, No Fuss Meals

2011-10-22T15:47:00.000-07:00

Now a lot of people know that if you are looking to eat a healthy plant-based diet, there are wonderful blogs out there with a vast assortment of recipes and info. One of my faves is "The Happy Herbivore". I find her recipes are in a very similar style to the way I cook, they are accessible and I enjoy that. I just found a post on her blog that I had to share!

23 Quick, No Fuss Meals

23 Quick, No-Fuss Meals: Still crave the ease and simplicity of a ham and cheese sandwich? No problem! Make any of these fast and almost instant meals!

Simple Stir-Fry: Combine equal parts soy sauce with sugar and set aside. Cook frozen mixed stir-fry vegetables according to packaging instructions (microwave!). Toss with soy sauce mixture and serve over a plate of cooked rice or quinoa. Edamame (soybeans) and/or tofu chunks make a nice addition.

Blissful Burrito: Spread a thin layer of vegetarian refried beans (or regular cooked beans) into a tortilla or wrap. Add salsa and any leftovers you have such as rice, quinoa, vegetables or greens. Roll up and voila!

Penny-Pinching Pad Thai: Toss cooked (and still hot!) rice noodles or pasta with 2 tbsp smooth or crunchy peanut butter and a dash of hot sauce. Cook frozen mixed stir-fry vegetables according to packaging instructions (microwave!) and toss with noodles. Garnish with crushed peanuts if desired.

Fast Fajitas: Mix fajita seasoning packet with water as directed. Cook fresh or frozen bell peppers until cooked, but still crisp. Toss with fajita mixture and cook as directed. Slap into tortillas and voila!

In a Hurry Curry: Mix 1 tsp curry paste with 1 cup coconut milk or non-dairy milk over medium heat to form a sauce, whisking in more paste if desired. Cook frozen mixed vegetables according to packaging instructions (microwave!) and smother with curry sauce. Tofu chunks and/or a side of rice make a nice addition.

Tasty Tofu Scramble: Break a block of firm tofu into chunks. Mix with 3 tbsp nutritional yeast, 1 big squirt Dijon mustard, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp turmeric and ½ tsp cumin and cook until warm, stirring frequently. Add a splash of non-dairy milk if it starts to stick. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add salsa, leftover veggies or beans to expand this dish. (video on happyherbivore.com/courses)

Pita Pizza: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce or pizza sauce on a pita. Add any toppings you like: vegetables, faux cheese, faux meat — even leftovers. Bake 5–10 minutes at 350 F. Don’t be afraid to try crazy combinations!

Smashing Smoothies: Blend 2 cups frozen fruit with 1 cup non-dairy milk or juice, or a combination of liquids. Add oats, ground flax seeds or a fresh banana for a fuller meal. Great combos: pineapple chunks with non-dairy milk and OJ; strawberries and vanilla non-dairy milk; banana, strawberries and chocolate non-dairy milk. Mixed berries, plain non-dairy milk and flax seeds.

Quickie Quesadilla: Smash a cooked sweet potato into a tortilla or wrap. Add beans, cooked greens and/or corn and fold over. Heat each side in a skillet if desired. Serve with vegan sour cream and/or fruit-flavored salsa over top.

Crazy Corn Soup: Cook 1 lb. frozen corn according to directions (microwave!). Blend into a creamy soup with 1/4 cup non-dairy milk and voila! Chipotle powder or hot sauce takes this soup to a fiery new level! (Recipe from happyherbivore.com)

Sassy Salsa Soup: Place 1 cup black beans, 1 cup salsa and 1½ cups vegetable broth in a blender, pureeing until smooth. Transfer to a saucepan, add 1 cup frozen corn, more black beans as desired, 1/2 tsp cumin and hot sauce to taste. Cook until thoroughly warm. Crumble tortilla chips over top and serve. Fresh avocado and/or cilantro also make a nice addition.

Mama’s Mexi- Dip: Combine vegan sour cream (or silken tofu blended with a few drops of lemon or lime juice) with ⅓ cup salsa or 1 packet taco seasoning. Serve with refried beans and tortilla chips. Guacamole also makes a nice addition. If you have extra time, make a layered dip.

Better BLT: Combine vegan bacon with lettuce, tomato and vegan mayo, avocado slices or hummus between two slices of bread or toast. You can also use a wrap.

Ancient Aztec Salad: Combine 1 cup corn with ½ cup black beans, ¼ cup cooked quinoa and fresh tomatoes. Squeeze lime juice over top. Serve warm or chilled. This can also be served over lettuce with tempeh slices or in a wrap. (Recipe from happyherbivore.com).

Terrific Teriyaki: Combine 1 can chickpeas with ¼ cup teriyaki sauce, 1 tbsp hot sauce and 1 tbsp sugar (optional) cook over medium heat until the chickpeas turn brown and the liquid absorb. Serve over greens or rice with fresh pineapple or mango salsa. (Recipe from happyherbivore.com).

Sensational Salsa Chickpeas: Combine 1 can chickpeas with 8 ounces of salsa. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until liquid has absorbed. Eat with lettuce wraps and sliced veggies. (Recipe from happyherbivore.com).

Cha-Cha Chili Macaroni: Combine 1 can of vegetarian chili with cooked pasta and a little tomato sauce if desired. Corn and/or fresh avocado slices make a nice addition. You can also add hot sauce to spice it up.

Outstanding Oatmeal: Cook 1 serving plain oatmeal according to directions. Mix with 4 to 8 ounces of plain soy yogurt. Add fresh fruit such as berries or banana slices and nuts, such as sliced raw almonds, on top. Drizzle with agave nectar or pure maple syrup. You can also add seeds, dried fruits or ground flax seeds.

BBQ’ed Baked Potato: Slice baked potato in half and smother with vegetarian baked beans. Serve with a side of frozen greens cooked according to package (microwave!).

Two-Minute Tacos: Combine 2 cups TVP with 2 cups hot water and 1 packet taco seasoning, stirring to incorporate. Once TVP has reconstituted (all water has been absorbed), make tacos or a taco salad.

Nice Rice Nori Rolls: Place chopped raw vegetables, such as bell peppers, cucumbers and carrots, with sliced apples or avocado, plus cooked rice or quinoa in the center of a nori sheet and roll up. Dip in soy sauce if desired.

Tangy Tempeh: Cut tempeh in half. Boil in water for 10 minutes. Drain, pat dry and smother in a tangy barbecue sauce. Serve on a bun with pickle slices and a side of cooked mixed vegetables.

Happy Hummus Wrap: Line a tortilla or wrap with red pepper hummus. Pile in fresh veggies such as sprouts, cucumbers, carrots, bell peppers, celery and white mushrooms, all sliced thin. Roll up and enjoy.

Woohoo!

2011-10-21T18:06:00.000-07:00

I am totally doing a happy dance right now. I felt the baby kick! At first it was gentle and I wasn't sure, then it was a little more firm poke in the same spot and then it was a third time and there was no mistaking it. I was sitting with my knees up against my belly and I guess the baby was crowded!! I LOVE it!

I was talking to some moms at a mommy group I am in about nutrition today. I found out that I am doing really really well now with this new devotion to healthy eating that I have had again. I am so motivated to feed my baby well and to do good things for this baby. (I do occasionally have a craving slip, but overall, I am doing well.)

I am anxious to meet with the nutritionist about Gestational Diabetes though, because I honestly don't remember anything beyond, sugar is bad, count your carbs and protein is good.

Quick Update on prenatal appointment

2011-10-20T18:33:00.000-07:00

Well, I went to the doctor today. There was a delay because he had been up all night delivering a baby and he was behind. So I went next door and did something to make me feel better. My hair has been bugging me for a while, I hate dealing with it when I am trying to get comfortable in bed and it was really hot on my neck, so I CHOPPED off all my hair. I have a pixie cut. The hairdresser was scared to do it because my hair was down to my waist, but she said that she really liked it and that it really suited me. Prince Charming and the girls seem to agree. Princess Magpie kept looking at me in awe and saying, "You are Mommy!"

And on to my baby check-up. We couldn't detect the babies heartbeat because the baby was too busy jumping around and doing acrobats, but I figure if she/he was feeling good enough to be jumping around and dancing, she is good enough for me. I am in my second trimester, I am no longer bleeding and my baby is active. I am good. The bad news is that I have Gestational Diabetes. When I had the test, I stopped by a coffee shop and had a coffee and a little sweet after it was over and it seems that sweets on top of that awful sugar drink they give you was not good for me and when I thought my sugar was low and making me feel really confused and foggy, it was actually really really super-high. So it looks like it is Gestational Diabetes again for me.

I would also like to point out that I am in my SECOND TRIMESTER!!!! Here's to better days with less fear of loss!

healthy days.

2011-10-18T09:19:00.000-07:00

I have been doing so well with my eating. I haven't been giving in to the horrible cravings. I have been eating overnight oatmeal with fruit and flax seed for breakfast. Tofu Scramble with veggies is what is for lunch. Typically, supper is rice and some sort of veggies. last night it was long grain rice, salsa, kidney beans, and corn. OMG was that YUMMY! And usually an extra thick smoothie made of frozen fruit and Lite Silk Milk. I feel so much better. I am still on bedrest and have been taking it easy, but the reward that the bleeding has stopped is wonderful.

Lunch today

2011-10-16T07:02:00.000-07:00

Spicy Salsa! Tofu Scramble

Ingredients (use vegan versions):

1/2 a small red onion
3/4 cup salsa
12 oz. extra firm tofu
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
olive oil (2 tablespoons or so)

Directions:

Chop the onion up and throw into a pan with the olive oil. Saute over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, or until onion is translucent.

In a medium bowl, mix salsa, tofu, and turmeric. Pour mixture into pan with onion and saute for about 5-10 minutes, depending on how browned you like your tofu.

Serves: 2

So glad to be back.

2011-10-16T06:58:00.000-07:00

I will be filling in updates here later this evening. I just wanted to post that I am back in all my healthy eating, vegetarian glory! I bought just bought tofu and I CAN'T WAIT to get at it and make me a nice big tofu scramble for lunch. I had coffee with vanilla silk coffee creamer and a nice big bowl of oatmeal this morning and it was a wonderful way to start my day. I am so glad to be back to being a healthy me. I have to confess that after the morning sickness passed, the craving started and I gave in to each and EVERY one! It was NOT GOOD! So I am here to be better and be healthy.

UPDATE

2011-10-12T09:17:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to update you guys on things. My pregnancy seems to be going okay. The bleeding has stopped and I am taking it SUPER easy. I had been having a stressful, busy couple of days and it is possible I was over-doing it. So, no more of that. I intend to relax, enjoy my kids and not stress about the things I can't get done as much as possible.

Pray for me.

2011-10-11T09:15:00.000-07:00

Had a scare last night. I was bleeding and I went to the ER to get checked. My cervix was closed, the baby's heartbeat was strong and the baby was active and moving around. They said all that was a good sign. I am worried, but it has stopped now and I am taking it easy. So keep my baby in your thoughts and prayers guys.

My Babies

2011-10-06T07:23:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics of my other girls when they were babies, even before they left the hospital.

Princess Belle - 2002

Princess Magpie - 2008

Princess Snifflefritz - 2009

Funny

2011-10-04T07:23:00.000-07:00

at 1

What a Day!

2011-09-30T07:22:00.000-07:00

I went to get that awful 3-hour glucose test yesterday. You know, the one that they give you that sickly sweet drink that you try not to vomit and then they stick you with a needle every hour.

So my adventure started with drinking the drink. Shortly afterwards, I began to feel really sick and really really tired. I was so tired, I was afraid I was going to fall asleep right there in the waiting room, so I got up to walk around the hospital. I listened to nurses complaining that they didn't have enough places to sit and take a break away from other people. I wandered some more and tried desperately to pry my heavy lids open. I wandered past dozens of bathrooms and in one I noticed a long padded table. I touched it and though to myself that if after my next needle, I didn't feel more alert, I was going to lock myself in that bathroom and lie on that table and take a nap. (LOL, I didn't).

After my next shot, the exhaustion began to wear off and I noticed all the children getting their needles. I have to tell you, I would not want to work in a place that made scared children cry all day long like a blood collection clinic does. I noticed that there was a funny trend. Babies tended to cry when they got their needle, but most toddlers didn't. It seemed like the worst cases of needle terror were older kids. Kids from ages about 7 - 12 were terrified. I watched them come in with tear-stained faces grasping mom's arms so tightly their little knuckles were white. I watched as one tried to run away and had to be dragged screaming back into the room. I listened as screams of terror and "I DON'T WANT A NEEDLE!!" rang through closed doors. I watched as an adorable 4 or 5 year old girl with Down's Syndrome, stomped out of the room, with tears streaming down her face, her little arms crossed in indignation that they were purport such an atrocity on her!

After my last needle of the day, I went down to the coffee shop and picked up a coffee and then walked through the hospital towards the exit when my blood sugar dropped so dramatically that it scared me. Suddenly, I was weak, shaking, my legs were wobbly, my brain was fuzzy, I was confused and I got a TERRIBLE headache! I passed by another coffee shop and pulled open my wallet and saw one lonely dollar in there. I couldn't think straight at all and money was beyond my comprehension at that point. Like a little kid who doesn't understand money, I explained my situation to the coffee shop guy and asked him what baked, sugary thing I could get for a dollar he pointed out my options and then suggested that maybe a bottle of juice would be better and suggested I go over to the fridge and get a bottle of juice. I did and even in my brain-addled state, it seemed to me that there was no way this big bottle was less than a dollar and when I went to the counter to ask him and pay, he waved me off saying, "No, I got this one." He was my knight in shining apron and hair net. I guzzled the juice and was soon feeling my sugar come back up.

The whole day of blood sugar testing and blood sugar dropping took it's toll on me though and I spent the whole rest of the day feeling sick and miserable with an awful headache. I was told I may need to do this test again at 28 weeks, I sincerely hope not!

On a side note, I am hoping that the fact that I lost so much weight before getting pregnant and the fact that I weigh less even now than I did at the beginning of any of my other pregnancies will mean that I don't get Gestational Diabetes this time.

Preventing Pre-eclampsia

2011-09-28T18:11:00.000-07:00

I am doing okay, still marvelously sick with morning sickness and miserable most of the day, but I wouldn't give that up. If I suddenly started feeling better before the first trimester was over, I would be a mess of worry. So I look at it as my miserable little reassurance and I don't mind too much.

I know I am probably destined to have Pre-eclampsia butI thought I would look up tips on preventing it anyway. Here is what I found:

It has been suggested that increasing dietary fiber can prevent preeclampsia. The study suggests that out of 383 women, the ones who consumed more than 24 grams of fiber a day (the top 25% for consumption) has a 51% reduction in the risk for preeclampsia.
Dr. Tom Brewer also claims that with the Brewer Diet, preeclampsia can be prevented. On the website it says… “It’s not genetics. It’s not random. The cause is NOT unknown. Toxemia CAN be stopped. PreeclampsiaA-toxic-condition-developing-in-late-pre… CAN be stopped. Best of all, YOU can stop it!
The simple prevention methods are to be sure to drink lots of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine.
The following medications and supplements have been extensively studied for their potential to prevent preeclampsia: * calcium (for example, Os-Cal); * fish oil supplements (for example, Promega); * supplements with vitamins C and E; and * baby aspirin (for example, Ecotrin Adult Low Strength). However, large studies have not shown calcium supplementation, baby aspirin, or fish oil supplementation to be beneficial in preventing preeclampsia. Early studies with vitamins C and E show a possible beneficial effect, but larger studies should be conducted before these agents can be broadly recommended. .

Snack and drink ideas

2011-09-26T11:53:00.000-07:00

Here are some healthy ways to satisfy between-meal hunger pangs:

An apple and a palmful of almonds or walnuts
A slice of whole-grain toast spread with 1 tablespoon of a protein-packed almond butter
A 6-ounce glass of skim milk (or non-dairy milk) and a banana
Low-sodium vegetable juice
Sparkling water with a splash of pomegranate juice and a few sprigs of mint
Carrot juice with a splash of orange juice
Vanilla- or chocolate-flavored sugar-free soy milk over ice

Top tips for eating well

2011-09-25T17:51:00.000-07:00

Eat a good breakfast. Here's where you set the stage for your day. A breakfast with protein, fat, carbohydrates, and fiber will make you feel better the rest of the day.
Eat small meals with snacks in between, rather than three bigger meals.
Include protein in every meal and snack, and avoid foods with refined sugar or processed white flour. This helps your blood sugar levels stabilize and keeps hunger at bay.
Work fruits and veggies into your meals in creative ways: Toss assorted chopped vegetables into your breakfast eggs, or sprinkle shredded zucchini or carrots into low-fat quick breads. Apple and cucumber slices make great additions to sandwiches. Add apple chunks, dried cranberries or currants, or chopped dried apricots to salads.
Focus on folate: Plus-size women, according to a study, may need more folic acid than smaller women, so it's essential to take a daily prenatal vitamin with 1 milligram of folic acid both before and during pregnancy.
Choose unsaturated good fats (olive, canola, peanut oils) over saturated and hydrogenated bad fats (animal fats, palm oil, margarine).
Use a food diary to keep track of your food and nutrient intake so you can make sure you're getting enough good stuff. It's also useful for tracking your mood and hunger levels so you can spot patterns you may need to change.

UPDATE

2011-09-25T17:48:00.000-07:00

I am still trying really hard to take it easy. It is just not in my nature to get Prince Charming to do so much for me, but he and Princess Belle have been wonderful. I think my little episode scared them too.

I can't wait until next grocery day, I have put my healthy foods in the budget and I just can't wait to dig right in and enjoy them all!

Scary Stuff

2011-09-24T05:24:00.000-07:00

Well, I had a bit of a scare yesterday. I had some spotting. Having lost a baby in the past, I was terrified and kind of assuming the worst. But after I was checked out, it had stopped and both the baby and I are fine. It was only a little bit and I haven't had any since. So, I am going to take it easy for the next little while and think positive thoughts.

Had an Appointment

2011-09-22T07:59:00.001-07:00

I got to see my little monkey today. The baby was jumping around and happy. It made my heart glad to see that little heart beating so steadily. I saw my baby, he/she is fine in there, growing and happy and doing okay. I will admit, I cried with relief right there in the doctor's office.

Excited!

2011-09-21T16:34:00.001-07:00

If I am lucky, I get to see the baby tomorrow. I am so excited. It will mean so much to see this little monkey. I am nervous, and I hope everything is okay in there. I just keep telling myself that I wouldn't be so sick and tired if my hormones weren't doing their thing.

What a difference!

2011-09-19T17:26:00.000-07:00

Can I just say that being pregnant with you first baby at 29 is WAAAY different than being pregnant with your fourth baby at 39. This is tough stuff. I am so tired all the time. I am trying to get out and do some walking and be active, but when I do, I am WIPED out! It is a good thing I lost 40 lbs before I got pregnant because this pregnancy is already kicking my butt and I can't imagine how hard it would be 40 lbs heavier!

Salad!

2011-09-17T17:45:00.000-07:00

I am doing pretty well. I went out today with the sole purpose of getting me some much needed veggies and I am so happy with the yummy salad fixings I got. I just really love my veggies and I feel it when I am not getting enough of them. Even Princess Belle was excited to see the salad fixings and chomping at the bit to dig into them too.

I have been having heel pain after my walks the last couple of days. I was reading up on it and they say that the cause is weight gain causing my feet to flatten. Which is lovely but I have gained hardly any weight. My weight it shifting to the front though, so maybe the cause is a change in the way I walk or a change the balance of weight on my feet.

On a positive note, my increase in sleep and water has really helped my headaches and my nausea! I am so glad.

Since I tend to have some difficulties with iron when I am pregnant, I was looking up some info on that. Here is what I found out:

Good sources of iron are whole grains, dried beans, dark green leafy vegetables, blackstrap molasses, tofu, spinach, beet greens, bulgur, prune juice, and dried fruits.

There are a few little tricks you can use to get the most iron out of these iron-rich foods.

Be sure to include foods rich in vitamin C (such as orange juice) in your diet every day. This vitamin will help your body absorb iron.
Cooking in a cast-iron skillet can help you get more of this mineral.
Cut back on caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea, and colas; they interfere with the body's ability to absorb iron.

Dumb Doctor

2011-09-14T17:38:00.000-07:00

You may remember that I mentioned that the doctor (not the specialist) had called me about some bloodwork. Well, my doctor is apparently a bit stunned. First he couldn't figure out why I was there and all I could say was, "Well, you asked me to come." Then he figures out that it was about the bloodwork I did when I was only 4 weeks pregnant. He said the HCG number was low. Then he looks at me, calculates how far along I was at the time and says it was fine and I didn't really need to come in at all. So, I stressed about this appointment when if he had just read my whole chart he could have seen everything is fine. For the record, I looked at the number and then looked at the chart I have for HCG and it was actually a little higher than the range for 4 weeks. It wasn't low, it was a little HIGH! I am so glad I won't be seeing him for this pregnancy anymore.

My headache is gone today. For the last two days, I have been concentrating on getting as much more sleep as my kids will allow and drinking more water and maybe that is helping.

Headaches

2011-09-13T17:22:00.000-07:00

I have been having a lot of headaches the last week or so. It is tough and I have been looking for ways to help out since I can't take ibuprofen like I usually would.

One thing I found out is that dehydration can contribute and I haven't been drinking as much water since I ran out of lemon juice to put in it. So, I will definitely get back on top of that.

Warm baths have been helping to. I guess it helps to relax me.

I know the two youngest ones sudden urge to not sleep is not helping at all.

still at it

2011-09-12T17:07:00.000-07:00

I am still working on getting healthy, but headaches and morning sickness are making it difficult.

The doctor called about some bloodwork he wants to discuss. So now I have to wait until Wednesday to make sure everything is okay.

I am hoping to go out on Thursday and get some nice healthy groceries. I am craving some yummy healthy veggies and salads and soups.

Iron

2011-09-10T08:03:00.000-07:00

I am concerned about iron, because I have had low iron in the past. So, in my research, I have been looking at vegetarian sources of iron. Here is what I have found:

enriched grain products like rice,
eggs,
leafy green vegetables,
broccoli,
Brussels sprouts,
sweet potatoes,
dried beans and peas,
raisins,
prunes,
peanuts.

So, I am going to play with my menu to see if I can come up with one that has enough iron in it.

goals

2011-09-08T17:45:00.000-07:00

Here are my goals for this pregnancy

Number one of course is just to have a happy, healthy, baby. Everything else is and will always be secondary.
Use Babyfit to plan my meals to try to get everything I need for the baby in a healthy way. This includes: eating high fibre foods, avoiding sugars as much as possible, eating calcium rich foods, look into ways to increase my iron intake, eat a variety of veggies,
Try to relax as much as a busy mom of three (soon to be four) kids can. Don't stress over things as I truly believe that a stressed mom has a stressed baby.
Try to get some extra activity in, even if is just going for walks with Princess Belle.
Limit myself to one instant coffee a day. (No perked as it is too tempting to make a full pot and drink it myself)
Cook more in my cast iron pan because it can increase the iron content of my foods.

Sample day

2011-09-07T14:29:00.000-07:00

Here is an idea for one day. I am not getting enough iron in there, but I am meeting every other requirement. I just have troubles getting in my iron on a vegetarian diet. I am really open to suggestions.

Breakfast
Silk, Unsweetened Soymilk
Spinach,
Tofu, firm

Lunch
Beans, red kidney
Bread, mixed-grain
Cucumber (with peel),
Red Ripe Tomatoes
Hummus
Romaine Lettuce
Carrots,

Dinner
Basmati Rice
Mushrooms, fresh,
Spinach
Mixed Vegetables
Cabbage
Sesame Seeds
Sunflower Seeds

Snack
Almonds

Starting out.

2011-09-07T14:17:00.001-07:00

I am working on trying to have a healthy pregnancy. I know I always get pregnancy inducded high blood pressure but I really don't want to have Gestational Diabetes this time. I know I may get it anyway. I know my family has a history of Diabetes and I know that I have had it with my last two pregnancies. But I intend to give it a run for it's money this time.

I also have been working on being healthy and I don't want to let that go just because I am pregnant. So, I am working on BabyFit to come up with healthy menus that can work for me. I am having troubles getting in enough iron and so I am working on that.

This will be a journey. I am 39 years old. I am pregnant with my fourth baby and I am overweight. I just really want to end up in as good a place as possible when I get to hold this beautiful baby in my arms.