Diva's Mommy Blog

2013-09-20T12:00:00.001-05:00

It has been a very long time since I updated the blog. My lil Ashten has cut teeth, crawled, said "Dad-Dad", learned to walk and had his first birthday. In other words, he's not my little baby anymore, he's a big boy. Time has flown by so fast. I still remember the day I brought him home like it was yesterday.

I have not had time to do everything that I have wanted because having a little one around upsets any schedule that you try to set for yourself. Hopefully, I can make time to do regular updates. We shall see. In the meantime, here's a recent pix of my little man.

2013-03-02T09:43:00.001-06:00

MIA UPDATE

2013-01-21T00:55:00.001-06:00

Just a quick note to say hi to everyone. Unfortunately, if it's not one thing it's another. My baby is getting over this new strain of the flu. It has hit pretty hard in the Memphis, TN area. And it's been mostly small children.

He's so young that it's not a whole lot of medication that he can take so he's just been soldiering through. I've rubbed him down and slathering him up with whatever I could but he's been sick since the first part of the month. Although he hasn't had any fever lately and he has been oked to go back to daycare, he is still congested and coughing, and not 100%.

And in the mist of already feeling horrible, he just cut his first tooth! WTF you said!? Same thing I said when the dr told me what was going on. He has been gnawing on yours an his fingers for over a month now. He has even managed to get his toes in his mouth. He is not even five months old yet and his tooth has broken through the gum. Slobbing, gnawing, pooping, and crying galore.

So yeah, it's been chaos around my house and not a lot of time for reading. And since he has been using me for his snot rag, I've caught the end of his sickness. I took my flu shot back in October so I didn't get the flu, but I still got sick. As close as I was to all the coughing and sneezing and in my face, I knew I was bound to come down with something. I'm a little better, probably at 70% but I'm bouncing back.

My oldest son also took the flu shot and he's been a snot rag too but he has not come down with anything yet. Hopefully it will miss him and we will feel better soon.

Review: Vtech Baby Lullaby Bear Crib Projector

2012-12-31T09:00:00.000-06:00

Description (from WalMart website) $14
The VTech Lullaby Bear Crib Projector helps put your little one to sleep effectively. The VTech baby projector is a smart design that not only helps your baby fall asleep, but also familiarizes her with music and nature sounds. The projector has a volume control switch for when you need to lower the music. The timer setting feature makes it easy for moms to set the toy to play continuously for three, five or 10 minutes. It is easy to attach this Bear Crib Projector to the crib.

This VTech baby projector is one of the best children's musical toys. All you need to do is press the round teddy bear button to play lovely lullabies and peaceful music. You can also change the sound effects and music, as well as the soothing images that are projected onto the ceiling.

VTech Lullaby Bear Crib Projector:

Includes several lullabies, classical works and nature sounds

Attaches easily to crib

Time-setting function allows mom to activate the unit for 3, 5 or 10 minutes

2-mode selector switch for lullabies or nature sounds

Dimensions: 2.8"W x 5.5"H x 1.6"D

Requires 4 AA batteries (included)

Review:
I had such high hopes for this cute little gadget, but it just didn't work out.

Pros: For the price I thought it was a gem. I had my eye on it long before my Ashy Poo got here. Every shopping trip to WalMart, I would always swing by the baby aisle and let him see it.   I'm a firm believer in letting my babies try out toys before I purchase them so I don't end up with a closet full of unwanteds. My little man seemed to be entertained by it. It was good for drawing and keeping his attention. He was content to stare at it and the projected images.

Cons: I didn't care for the voice. Al thought it was creepy, he was like, "Ma, what is that? Are you trying to scare the baby or something?" And the worst part was that I tried countless times to get it to attach to the crib but the strap just would not stay. I tried to reposition it several times so that the locking mechanism would catch but it kept falling.

Although my baby loved it, I just couldn't risk it coming undone and ending up smacking him in the face or something. At his young age, he is still pretty strong and even if I rigged it up to stay put, he probably would have found a way to tug it loose and hurt himself. The other con that I didn't like was the clearness of the projection. I guess it's okay from a child's stand point, but if I'm spending money on something, I want to get the most bang for my buck.

Verdict: I only kept it for two day so I didn't take any personal pix of it. For something that will be entertaining my Ashy Poo on the daily, I will probably shell out a few extra dollars to get something better. Cute and it works, but not dependable. If you can find a way to secure the straps, give it a go, but if you don't want the hassle (raising my hand), pass and pick up something else.

Oh, and although I purchased this at WalMart for $14, Amazon has the ridiculous notion that someone is going to pay $29.99. Stop laughing, some people swear by Amazon-but shop around before you buy because the Vtech website has it for $12.99.

Would Not Buy

Two Months Of Cuteness

2012-11-27T09:00:00.000-06:00

Today Ashten is three months old, so here is a look back on what he was doing and what he looked like when he was two months.

What He Learned How To Do

Fake cough to get my attention
Baby talk nonstop
Use my breasts for a binky and pillow
Give the cutest smile every on demand
Lean towards anyone that reached for him
Try to hold his bottle
Discovered his feet and hands and can't stop playing with them
Try to pull up when you hold his hands
Keep his binky in his mouth if he wants to and snatch it out when he's tired of it

What I'm Glad Happened

Baby acne and cradle cap are almost gone
Got better at taking his bottle with next to no spit up, but still demands the breast when it's time to go to sleep
He is sleeping better at night and during the day

Next Month Goals

Getting him out of my bed and into his crib
Getting him to take only bottles and save the breasts for pumping

Busy and nosy...never missing a thing

Naptime is the best time of the day

Cranky because he needed a nap

Hello, what's your name?

Happy he can sit up without falling over...much

Ready for his close up.

Big boy right after his two months shots

Playtime!

One Month Of Cuteness

2012-11-17T10:04:00.001-06:00

It's been a tiring two and a half months with my Ashy Poo but seeing him smile has been worth all the sleepless nights and tears that we have both cried trying to learn each other.

Since I have neglected to do a monthly post for his little milestones, I'll just do a picture gallery and make a note to myself to do monthly updates. Here is the first month of cuteness.

First bath. Yes, he cried and peed in the water, but after we changed it and put him back in, he exhaled, relaxed, and really liked bath time.

Just random cuteness

Asleep on my bed. For some reason he loathes his crib and won't set foot in it.

Sitting in my sister's lap. She got a good five minutes out of him before he threw up all over her.

Quality time with big bro, Al.

Breasts and Bottles

2012-11-10T09:00:00.000-06:00

This is another post that sat in my draft folder for awhile because I didn't have time to finish and post. I updated it at the bottom to show how our progress is going.

It has been a real minute since I've had time to post...wait, to tell the truth it has been a minute since I've been able to do anything since Ashten got here. He has been a total blessing and I love him to death, but my little man has me totally twisted.

Mad about being put in the car seat.

First of all, I think I returned to work too early. I went back the week after he turned one month. Although I really didn't want to, I needed to. For one, bills still need to get paid, and two, I just felt like I needed to breath...without smelling baby poo...and I felt like I was getting depressed sitting at home with my baby. Even though I miss him like crazy while I'm gone, I needed a change of scenery and the more I sat at home, the weight wasn't coming off.

Anyhoo, introducing him to bottles was a disaster at first. I did continue to breast feed. I pumped and put milk in bottles for him to drink while I was at work and I breast feed him the rest of the day and night. But that didn't work for long because my milk supply decreased so I had to supplement with formula. No matter how much encouragement my lactation consultant and dr gave, nothing helped with increasing my milk supply. I found out the hard way that stress is not good for mommy or baby.

We started out giving him Gerber Good Start which I don't think he liked. We had to make 4 oz bottles because he would throw up 2 oz. I went back and forth to his dr trying to explain to them that it might just be possible that my baby's tummy was just not agreeing with this particular formula. There was only so many times that I was going to watch my baby throw up milk from his nose and mouth. And yeah the first few times, I was scared to death and when he cried, I cried. I called the docs office every day and they just kept reassuring me that it was just his immature digestive system getting use to bottle feedings and formula. Okay, I listened for awhile, but I'm a firm believer that if things don't work, try something else until you find what works.

So, we went to Enfamil. It was a slow start, but eventually he took to it. So I returned to having a happy baby that was full and gaining weight. Phew! This just goes to show you that sometimes you have to go with your instincts because with all the training doctors have, they fail to see that what works for one person, doesn't always work for another person. I know they mean well, but in my personal opinion, I think I am going to skip the family practice when it comes to my children and opt for a pediatrician. To me family practices are less personable and deal with general stuff. A pediatrician is skilled in children's care and they give the child more personal attention.

UPDATE

We've had some good breast feeding days and some bad ones that required a formula feed. I have now gotten in the habit of pumping and storing what I can and not stressing when I don't have enough. It's true that your diet, how much water your are drinking and your stress level affects your supply. I use to get upset when I had to break out the formula, but now I'm glad that I have accepted that I'm not supermom and rather than starve my baby because I can't produce enough milk, it's okay to supplement. I only do it enough so that I can build myself back up and keep him from going hungry.

It usually takes me a day or two to get back right. Normally what I do is send formula to the daycare while I am at work. I pump during the day and store that for later. I then strictly breast feed when I get home for the rest of the evening and night. This gets me back on track and he goes back to all breast milk in the bottle or from the source. I'm still learning, but we are getting there.

Breast Engorgement....Hello Dolly!

2012-10-30T18:34:00.002-05:00

This post was originally written back in September. It has been sitting in my draft folder because I have been either too busy or too tired to finish it.

Before I start with this rant, I just want to say that I no longer envy big chested women. I will gladly keep my C cups. Personally, I find big breasts to be a pain in the ass and I no longer wish to look like Dolly Pardon. Mission: Deflate.

Okay, so I was worried about my milk coming in. I really couldn't remember what to expect because I didn't exclusively breast fed with Al like I'm planning to do with Ashten. My goal is one year.

My milk started coming in on Thursday night, that was two days after I gave birth. It came in so fast, I thought I was having a heart attack or something. I remember feeling full chested and unable to breathe a little bit. My back started hurting and when I held up my breast, I could notice the obvious difference. I hadn't bought a nursing bra yet, but I knew that would be first on my list because those puppies hurt in my regular underwire bra. Can you say too, too small? I normally wear a 38C-that's pre pregnancy but with a nursing bra, I found the 42 D to be the most comfortable.

The next nite which was Friday, I noticed that I had become engorged, and boy were my breast twice their normal size and heavier than a bitch. Seriously, I was having back pain just holding these girls up. I hadn't planned on taking in pain meds, but I ran to the pharmacy to fill that Ibuprofen prescription! After several massages, breast feeding marathons, cold and hot compresses, I'm in day two of breast engorgement and not happy at all. Ashten is still nursing on demand which can be anywhere from every thirty minutes to every hour or hour and a half, but my breasts are draining slowly. I even bought an electric breast pump to help, but so far it's done nothing but hurt instead of help. I'll have to wait until my breast are less sensitive before I use that thing again!

Update

The pump that I was using was the Evenflo Single Electric Breast Pump and even after the engorgement, it still hurt to use it. I ended up getting an EnJoye Double Pump from my local WIC office. And thank God for the lactation consultant. I was in her office a lot because I was having a hard time getting him to latch on properly and he preferred only one particular breast. To hell with the other, he wouldn't take it so we went through a spell where he was gaining weight slower than he should. But all is well because he was up to 11 pounds at his last visit.

EnJoye

Just Throw It In The Bag...What I Took In My Hospital Bag

2012-09-24T09:00:00.000-05:00

I originally wrote this before I gave birth, but had it on draft and never posted it. So, I was going through my drafts and decided to just update it and post it anyway. Rather than tell you what I had in my bag, I just updated it to the things that I took that I actually used or needed.

Keep in mind that every hospital is different so you might want to check with yours to make sure that you have everything that you need and leave the stuff at home that you don't need because the hospital will be giving you quite a few things to take home with you.

What Was In My Hospital Bag

Personal hygiene stuff-comb, brush, toothbrush, toothpaste, chapstick, deodorant, soap, ponytail holders, and lotion. Trust me-it's better you pack these things because you never know how stingy the hospital is with personal hygiene stuff. All I got was soap, no toothbrush or toothpaste and they were stingy on the sanitary pads.
Sanitary pads-the ones that had did not stick to my panties and they shifted around a lot causing a lot of accidents. You will thank yourself for bringing the ones you are use to wearing
Socks because the floors are always cold and I got tired of searching for my slippers when I needed to get to the bathroom with the quickness.
Nursing bras for easy access. I left the tank tops in my suitcase because at that point everyone had already seen everything and I wasn't as concerned with modesty nor was I looking forward to having boob juice and spit up on them-less clothes to wash when I get home
Nursing pads just in case your milk comes in before you leave the hospital-mine came the night I left and boy did that hurt!
Warm bathrobe (because I am very cold natured)
Laptop and charger because I'm a Facebook fool and posted baby pix nonstop. I also needed to keep up with my online class.
Cell phone and charger- gots to call my peeps!
List of friends and family to call and text once baby gets her-yeah know the ones that you're not Facebook friends with
Pediatricians name, address, and phone number -because hospital will ask and you want to go ahead and make an appt for your baby
My insurance card
Pens and notebook for jotting down info
Gum and candy for dry mouth
Snacks because you don't want to spend an arm and a leg in the high priced vending machines-I was surprised that the hospital food was good and they let me order what I wanted and as much as I wanted.
2 Extra pillows-for comfort, hospital pillows feel like bricks! And can you believe I left mine on the living room couch!

In Ashten's bag

2 or 3 cute baby outfits, hats, socks to chose from for pix and going home in
Medical binder (something I put together with page protectors so that I can keep my paperwork and all new paperwork they give me for baby all in one place. This is what I will be keeping copies of his insurance card, shot record, ss card, and other important copies (not originals) in so I can have easy access to them. This came in handy because they give you so much paperwork and reading material.
2 soft baby blankets-I know hospital will give me some but they are always so rough
Newborn diapers-the hospital gave us diapers and wipes but I already had tons of newborn diapers with the umbilical cord cut out. I figured he wouldn't stay small for long so I was going to use up all those newborns and save the size ones the hospital gave us for later. And plus, I hated folding down the tops of those diapers so they didn't touch the cord clamp. It grossed me out.

Review: Munchkin Diaper Change Organizer

2012-09-23T12:28:00.001-05:00

Product Description (from Target website) $17.39

Storing diaper-changing gear has never been easier than with this handy organizer. Manufactured by Munchkin, this organizer easily attaches to a crib, door or changing table with adjustable hook and latch fasteners. It features eight storage pockets of various sizes—perfect for all the essentials.

Holds and stores clothes, towels, diaper changing supplies and more
Offers 8 handy storage areas for all your diaper change needs
Just attach it to a dresser, crib, changing table, wall or door
Holds more than 50 diapers
Easy to assemble
Frame Material: Canvas
Care and Cleaning: Wipe Clean With a Damp Cloth
Dimensions: 21.0 " H x 19.0 " W x 18.0 " D
Weight: 1.8 Lb.

This was actually one of the first purchases that I made when I found out I was pregnant. I have been meaning to do a review on it for some time now. It has been hanging crib side since the end of May and I have had no problems out of it.

First of let me say that this is a handy little doo dad. I didn't spend a lot of money on but is so worth having. It holds countless amounts of diapers. I can't even tell you how many but the first time I loaded it, I put at least three jumbo newborn little snugglers on the outside and two or more packs of size one on the inside.

It's plain and simple but it coordinates with my Winnie the Pooh crib sheet. It holds way more than the other more fancy, decorative, and pricey ones that I originally looked at.

From the reviews I read, some stated that it looked cheap, sagged too much, and the velcros that held it up did not work.

The pictures online and on the packaging make you think that the upper portion of the organizer is sturdy, but it's not. Check out the online pix above and my pix below so you can see the difference. The only way I see it being that sturdy is by having something else supporting it.

Here's my take on those points: To me it doesn't look cheap, just plain. It's cloth and for seventeen bucks, you're not going to get top notch, but it does the job. As far as the sagging, I did put some items in the top portions such as wipe containers and lotion bottles. I noticed that it did not hold these items well because there is only cardboard in the bottom of each section to hold it up. Now I only put diapers in it and holds them, but again the upper sections still sag because they don't have much support. I have not had a problem with the velcros. Once I attached them to the side of the crib, they have never weakened. Of course I have never put anything heavy in the organizer so I don't know what everyone else is doing that putting pressure on the velcros for them to loosen. The most weight I have put on the organizer is a regular wipe case or a small bottle of lotion or shampoo.


This was what I had in it before. See how many diapers you can fit on the outside. LOTS! Top middle section doesn't have as much sag to it because I have the bottom section stuffed with lots of diapers to give it some support. And if you stuff the bottom sections, they will support the top sections better too.


This pix was taken from the side and shows how it sags and droops. I don't have the bottom sections stuffed so that you can see how it needs to be supported.

Overall, I still found the product very useful. All I needed was a central place to stack a lot of diapers and it does just that. I give it three happy baby faces.

Good Product

UPDATED

Here are new pix to show the velcro straps. The first is a back view and the side is a frontal view. The product description states that it has hooks, but they are adjustable velcro straps. And my straps have never come undone because I still only use it for diapers and small diapering stuff.

View from the back or inside of the crib

View from the front or outside of the crib

Introducing Part 2...The Birth Story

2012-09-01T11:11:00.000-05:00


Ashten Marven 8/28/12 9:58pm 8lbs 10z

Ashten is four days old today and I am just now getting a chance to go to the bathroom without him being attached to my boob. I have been asking a thousand questions about this because it seems like this child never gets enough to eat. It is true, in the first few days, all a baby does it eat, sleep, and poop. And don't forget the glorious crying spells that you have to figure out which cry is for what.

I nurse, he naps, he cries, I pray. I'm so glad that I'm not using formula because I would be in such big trouble and financial debt right now and he's not even a month old yet. Let the learning begin...

Okay, so from the beginning, here's what happened:
On this past Tuesday, which was my official due date. I woke up to my freaking air being out and some serious back and abdominal pressure. I wasn't really hurting, but it was uncomfortable enough for me to have to sit down rather than try to walk it off. At this point, my water hadn't broken, I hadn't had any major contraction action, and I had only seen a little blood in the bathroom so my mucus plug had not come out yet.

I called the dr office just see what they would say and they told me to go to the ER just to get checked out. This was around lunch time so everyone that I could count on was either at work or out of pocket so I drove myself, suitcase, car seat, and baby bag in tow. I got to labor and delivery about 2 and got hooked up to the monitors and found out that I had been having some mild contractions. Whaaaa?

Within 20 minutes, the nurse said that I had had four significant contractions and the doctor would be in shortly to see if I was dilated. I questioned the nurse about how many centimeters I'd need to be before they kept me because I realized that after I got there, I wasn't so ready to go into labor just yet. Yeah, like I had a choice. Anyhoo, she said that since today was my due date and if I was at least 2 to 3, I might as well get comfortable because I was having a baby...today.

So the docs came in and I was two. They said they would give me another hour to see how I progressed but they decided to admit me anyway. Within an hour to an hour and a half, I went from 2 to 6 centimeters and the pain started kicking in. At first, I was dealing with it because it started out as just lower back pain, but then it moved to lower back and abdominal pain and I could actually feel my baby coming down my cervix with each contraction. It kinda felt like an involuntary urge to push something out. It wasn't painful, just very uncomfortable but distracting enough that I couldn't focus on managing my pain anymore. At this point, I was ready for my epidural.

With Al, the epidural took all the pain away. With Ashten, I didn't have that luck. It took the pain away for awhile and I could actually feel the medicine as it came into my body. It kinda felt like something cool flowing into my veins and that freaked me out. That along with starting to feel the edge my contractions. At about 8 centimeters, my rapid progression came to a halt. They had me turn on my sides because whichever side I laid on would thin out, but the other side didn't. And which each side I laid on, the epidural was less effective. I ended up getting a dose of something else to numb the edge that I was feeling.

When I was finally ready to start pushing, they slapped an oxygen mask on me and we went to work. Seriously, it took a good two to three pushes and Ashten was out. That involuntary urge to push that I was having was Ashten working his own way out so I really didn't have to do much work in the end. Good thing because I was in such la la land and it helped that my team of doctors and students (at this point I didn't give a damn about who was or wasn't there, just wanted this baby out) were the bomb. I actually remember hearing one of the doctors say, "Ok, lets have this baby" and everything went quickly with no complications. He was born at 9:58pm and weighted 8lbs and 10 ounces.

The pain that I felt was an absolute nightmare and I can't image having to feel that for hours on hours during a natural birth. Call me a punk, I'll take that. And I thought the epidural would work it's magic for me, but I suspect they kept my dosage low because they really wanted me to feel the urge to push unlike I did when I had Al. With Al I was totally numb, but with Ashten, I still had feeling in my vagina because I felt a burning sensation as he was making his way out. The weird part about it was that both legs had gone completely numb but I could still lift my hips when they cleaned me up.

I didn't tear enough to need stitches, but I did have a little stinging when I went to the bathroom which I needed to do about thirty minutes later. In the end, this time around, nothing was what I expected, but everything that I could have hoped for. The hospital was great, the doctors and nurses were great. I'm in love with my little noise maker and we are both just thanking God that we had a safe delivery.Bi

Introducing....

2012-08-29T10:14:00.001-05:00

Well, I am happy to report that I had Ashten Marven last night at 9:58pm. He weighted in at 8 pounds and 10 ounces. I will do a detailed post later but here is my little man's first pix!

Nesting? WTH? I Don't Do Nesting...Or Do I?

2012-08-27T17:53:00.000-05:00

Throughout most of my pregnancy, I have not been a go freak. I have not really wanted to get out of the house because it was so hot and I didn't want all the attention that preggers people get. But since I'm due this week, I haven't been able to sit my butt down.

I have been here and there, picking up stuff for the house and baby like I'm going to be shut in for months. I don't know what has come over me, but I know it's wreaking havoc on my swollen feet and heavy stomach.

I'm still thinking of a million things that I need to get but now I'm pooped. I know I shouldn't be driving because I have to literally fall into the car and physically lift my right leg just to get it in the car. Al laughs at me and Ashten's father said I should sit my a** down before I pop the baby out on the front seat. Whatever! I've been trying to keep on my feet because I've heard that lots of walking in the final days helps bring on labor and makes for an easy labor. Well, whoever said that needs to be smacked for spreading lies because so far nothing has happened.

I can say that I did pick up the last things on my to do list. And, I finally found a Moby wrap. It cost me about $50 but I will get sooo much use out of it. I even learned how to tie it correctly on the first try using a teddy bear. It was a little awkward with my big belly but at least I know I'll have plenty of fabric to work with. It wasn't as bad as some of the reviews made it out to be. Actually it's very simple to do because the instruction booklet shows pictures. Now if you can't follow the pictures, most likely you don't need one. I might actually do a vlog once Ashten gets here. We'll see. For now, I am going to concentrate on sitting my butt down and being patience. Now if I don't have this baby by Friday, you will see a totally different side of me, so let us pray...

Pregnancy Week Wrap Up: 39 Weeks

2012-08-26T03:28:00.000-05:00

1. How far along am I? 39 weeks with only days to go. Woohoo!

2. How much weight have I gained? I gained three pound so I’m at 210. OMG! It feels like about half of that is my pregnant belly!! And if one more person asks me if I'm having twins, I am going to go crazy! Can't a pregnant girl enjoy her extraness without insensitive people making a big deal out of it? And why people feel the need to tell you how big you are is just plain rude!

3. What changes have I notice in my body? My God. Does being pregnant with boys always wreak havoc on your body? This is my second and it seems like it got worse with each one. Therefore, I do not feel the need to try a third time. My feet are still swollen. My left one in particular because I dangle it off the couch a lot when I’m suppose to have them both propped up. I have to sit down a little more because Ashten is getting heavier by the day. My lower back pain especially on my left side has returned with vengeance.

4. Advice my doctor is giving me? Just be ready. It will happen any day now.

5. How am I sleeping? Still getting my sleep in the am hours. I wonder is this a sign of what is to come when Ashten gets here…up all night and sleep during the day?

6. Best moments of the week? I finally got my big fat toes done because I couldn’t see them anymore. I know they were in horrible shape when I went to the salon but I didn’t care. I needed those bad boys done ASAP! I also got a new mattress set. I said I was going to replace my old one before Ashten got here but kept putting it off. I figured that with the new comfy mattress, I’d be able to return to my bed, stretch out, and get rid of some of these aches and pains. A lie! It was sooo comfortable when I lay down on it in the store but when I got it home I realized I’d need help every time I got up. It didn’t look so high in the store, but I see I’m going to have to climb in and out of this bad boy so it’s best if I go back to the couch for this last week.

7. What food(s) am I craving? I think this last week has me wonky because I’m craving tuna and chicken salad with macaroni and cheese on the side.

8. What food(s) I can’t stand? Still none to report.

9. What am I looking forward to this week? The ride to the hospital. I’m just so ready that it’s all I can think about.

10. What have I accomplished on my “To Do Before Baby Gets Here List”? I bought a baby carrier this week because I’m just not into the bulkiness of strollers and I want to be hands free. I picked up one in Target without looking at reviews and when I got it home, I was like WTH. I couldn’t understand how you put it on and it had no hip support so back to Target it will go. I have been leaning towards a Moby wrap but didn’t want to shell out the xtra $$$ or figure out how to tie it. I’m actually looking for comfort and convenience so I can breastfeed any and everywhere so I’m thinking that the Moby just might be a good investment.

11. What I still need to accomplish on my “To Do Before Baby Gets Here List”? I need to find a reliable and affordable electric pump. I want to go ahead and find one so when I go back to work I’m not in such a big rush to just pick up anything. Still researching this.

12. Pregnancy thoughts for the week? Dear Ashten, please come…like now…and end my physical pain. I love you sweetie, but you are seriously putting a hurting on your mommy. It hurts to walk, it hurts to sit, and truth be told, it basically hurts all over. Show me some mercy and just come already!

Pregnancy Week Wrap Up: 38 Weeks

2012-08-21T21:28:00.001-05:00

1. How far along am I? 38 weeks

2. How much weight have I gained? I gained one pound so I’m at 207.

3. What changes have I notice in my body? My feet are swollen no matter how many times I put my feet up. I’ve noticed more pressure in my lower abdomen and an uncomfortable feeling in my lower back when I stand. No contractions yet but I do feel my stomach tightening every now and then.

4. Advice my doctor is giving me? Do a final check of my hospital bag and load it in the car just in case. Plan the quickest route to the hospital and get to the ER when my water breaks.

5. How am I sleeping? Still not getting enough, but the naps will have to do for now. Stomach is getting bigger and making it hard for me to get comfortable on the couch or any sitting position without good back support.

6. Best moments of the week? Love it when I go out to eat because pregnant ladies always get extra food without even having to ask! I’m such a greedy little girl because I should be saying something sentimental here, but all I can think about is feeding my fat face. LOL!

7. What food(s) am I craving? I’m back to my Olive Garden fix. Chicken scampi, I’ve even learned how to make it at home. Delicious and with more sauce! And I put away two salads with extra tomatoes. I hate Italian dressing, but I have always loved their dressing. Didn’t touch the breadsticks for some reason. I even took them home and still didn’t touch them. And I usually love their breadsticks.

8. What food(s) I can’t stand? Still none to report.

9. What am I looking forward to this week? Going into labor—seriously! Not looking forward to the pain, but just ready for something to happen.

10. What have I accomplished on my “To Do Before Baby Gets Here List”? Finally got everything in my hospital bag so I am ready to go. Also got Ashten’s bag packed. I am ready to get the show on the road, just waiting on my little man to give me the go.

11. What I still need to accomplish on my “To Do Before Baby Gets Here List”? Still looking for a good firm mattress for the crib. Everything that I’ve run across says that it’s firm but it always feels to soft and squishy to me. Plus the reviews I read on the web say that they make sounds when baby moves and rolls over or doesn’t support baby when they start standing. I want to get a good one the first time around so that I don’t have to replace it later.

12. Pregnancy thoughts for the week? I thought I wanted my doc to strip my membranes to try and start labor early, but now that I think about it, I don’t. I would just rather wait until my little sweetie is ready for the world. Even though he is getting more painful to carry, I’m still going to wait for him to make his own grand entrance.

Am I There Yet?

2012-08-21T07:58:00.000-05:00

I've been up all night with menstrual like cramps off and on. They have been really mild. It's kinda like you feel when you know that your period is coming but it hasn't come yet type of feeling. I know it's not actual labor yet because they have been too sporadic to really mean anything. But at least something has started to happen. Thank God! Hopefully it will continue over the next few days and I'll land myself in the hospital this weekend.

The awful lower back uncomfortableness and the heaviness of my tummy has minimized a little bit so that's a relief. I think Ashten has eased up on me because he knows his time is coming. I'm still not convinced that he is in the face down position because I am feeling too much movement way above my belly button. Hopefully he is just extra long because I swear I could feel his feet kicking high in my tummy. I go to the doctor's tomorrow so they can expect a long Q and A with me. Hope they are not in a rush, because I'm about to burst their bubble.

One Tired Mommy

2012-08-17T18:33:00.000-05:00

Gah....this week has really been tiring for me. I have tried to keep myself together and do as much as I can but my body is making me remember just how close my due date is. I am super sleepy and super tired.

As of today, I have twelve more days to go and feeling every day. Usually, I'm able to go out to appointments, have a little lunch or go to the grocery store for at least an hour or two with no problem. As long as I get home and put my feet up a bit, I'm good to go when Al gets home from school.

For the past two days, I've been feeling pressure in my lower abdomen and a dull uncomfortable feeling in my lower back. I even have to bring a chair to the kitchen to sit in while I cook or wash dishes. No contracts yet, but it hurts more than usual to stand and even walk. I swear I've had the same cramp in my left thigh for three days that just won't go away. I don't know what is going on with the left side of my body, but seems like whenever I have pain or uncomfortableness, it always lingers on that side.

I feel like my belly has ballooned over night AGAIN. Tee shirts that I wore last week are now showing the bottom of my belly. This is soo not cute. But at this point, ask me if I care. If I offend someone, tough titties!

And through all this, my sweet little baby boy has dropped, but he is still bouncing off the walls of my uterus. I thought that once a baby dropped they would have less room to move around-A Lie! He is still very active and still balling up in the middle of my stomach. I didn't get stretch marks with Al, but I am anticipating them with Ashten. He has truly pushed and shimmed himself enough room in my tummy to move around as he pleases.

I had my weekly appointment on Wednesday and since I've been begging for relief, my doctor says that she will strip my membranes at my next visit. Of course I researched it online and now I'm a little scared because some say it works and others say it didn't work. I'm just afraid to go through the pain or uncomfortableness without having any results to show for it. I didn't get a pelvic exam, which I though was odd since I haven't had one since I got tested for GBS at 35 weeks I think. But I didn't push the issue because I'm not excited about letting them poke around down there until it's absolutely necessary. Plus I didn't want to spend twenty minutes trying to get back into my clothes and shoes.

Oh, one of the girls that was in my Lamaze class that shared a due date with me, had her baby this past Wednesday. I am sooo jealous! Anyhoo, I've already got my feet up and I feel a nap coming on, so we'll see what happens...hopefully I go in labor this weekend...we'll see...

Pregnancy Week Wrap Up: 37 Weeks

2012-08-10T03:13:00.003-05:00

1. How far along am I? 37 weeks and officially full term!

2. How much weight have I gained? I still weight 206 from my 36 week check up so I haven’t gained anything.

3. What changes have I notice in my body? I’m assuming that Ashten has “dropped” because I know have use of my lungs again and don’t get out of breathe as much. Everyone is commenting on how cute I look pregnant because they say that from the back you can’t tell that I’m pregnant because I’m

all baby. I notice that I’m getting little moles on my face, but they are all tiny and run in the family so the doctor says they are nothing to worry about.

4.

Advice my doctor is giving me? Got a new doc this week and I love her. She just had a baby, hers in 8 weeks so she is full of good mommy advice. The main thing she’s stressing is that I watch for signs of labor. My Lamaze instructor told me to do early labor at home as much as I could, drink plenty of water, and walk around as much as I could and not to come to the hospital until I was sure it was show time. She said that if I get there too early, I will be miserable because they will immediately get me in bed and won’t allow me to get up and move around. I was also told to continue doing my Kegel exercises, mini squats, and to practice my breathing.

5. How am I sleeping? I can get comfortable, still on the couch, but my sleeping pattern is still off. I might fall asleep around 9 or 9:30, but wake up around 12 or 1 in the morning and be up until 3. (I’m writing this post at 2:30am) This sucks because school has started and I have to be back up at 6 to make sure Al gets to school. It’s a good thing that he is riding the bus this year because I wasn’t sure how I was going to manage dropping him off and picking him up. I still grab a quick nap here and there and it makes me feel a little better.

6. Best moments of the week? Ashten’s dad is still convinced that we are having a girl (I’ll save that story because it is not blog friendly) so he bought a car seat with pink flowers…ican’t!!! Poor man, I have really put him through some changes these last few months so I let him slide and just exchanged it for a boy friendly color. This is what I get for insisting that he go pick one out when he’s the type of guy to just give you the money and let you do what you need to do. I knew he’d try to teach me a lesson, so I’m going to let it slide. Now if the crib mattress comes with pink flowers, he won’t get a pass!

7. What food(s) am I craving? I think I’ve shunned all healthy foods and took full advantage of my condition by stuffing my face with the good stuff week. I discovered a new soul food restaurant and I’ve been enjoying catfish, homemade mac and cheese, candied yams, smothered pork chops and cabbage. Oh, and my love of orange juice is back!

8. What food(s) I can’t stand? Again, I’m not turning down anything this week. If it comes close too close, it’s as good as eaten. I have noticed that I haven’t wanting anything sweet lately. I love almond snickers but I’ve had one in the refrigerator for a week and haven’t touched it yet.

9. What am I looking forward to this week? I would really like to go in labor early. I’m just so ready for Ashten to be here. Al is too excited and can’t wait for little brother to stop making me so tired. I do get a lot of hugs from Al because he sees how tired and achy I am so I soaking up all the mommy love.

10. What have I accomplished on my “To Do Before Baby Gets Here List”? Got car seat and baby bag is on the way. I order a baby backpack from Wal-Mart that has ubber space for everything. I just had I did site to store instead of shipping it to the house. I called myself trying to save on sales taxes but it just makes the shipping process 3x slower. I also started a medical notebook for Al and Ashton. I got this idea from a flyer I received at the baby expo this past spring. I’ve put all of their personal and medical info in a three ring binder with those clear page protectors so that I can have copies of insurance cards, birth certificates, shot records, docs numbers, emergency contacts, medication they take, and other stuff ready in case there’s an emergency and we need to get up and out quickly and I don’t have to spend time hunting things down. Everything is right there in the book.

11. What I still need to accomplish on my “To Do Before Baby Gets Here List”? I need to update my baby scrapbook. I don’t think I’ve done anything to it since before my baby shower-that was back in June. I also need to write my birth plan so I make sure that everyone is on the same page. I also have pix of me as my belly has gotten bigger that I need to send out to be developed so I can add them to the scrapbook. I need to find some soothing music to play while at the hospital. I need to make a list of people to call who will want to visit Ashten when he gets here. I also need to find a baby carrier of comfortable sling so that I can wear him hands free.

12. Pregnancy thoughts for the week? I have recently realized that I am not Superwoman and I can’t get up and go like I use to, I’m simply too big. I actually need to stop driving, but I probably won’t, I’m so hard head, I’ll probably try to drive myself to the hospital!! But I have realized that even although I want to walk around as much as possible to try to make the baby come earlier, I really need to kick back and relax a little. My house is a mess and I’m a mess, but in three weeks, I’ll be a bigger mess so I might as well get used to it.

Do You Wash Before Putting Baby In It?

2012-08-03T20:03:00.000-05:00

I just had this random thought when I got Ashten's car seat today. Am I paranoid because I want to wash the fabric before I put him in it? And what about the fabric on the bouncy seat that I have?

I ask this because I always wash clothes before I wear them because you never know who has been touching them or where they have been. Just because they still have that new smell and are still in the store, who is to say that they haven't been tried on, been all over the floor, or has already been home with someone and is a return?

Isn't this the same with stuff like this that contains fabric? What about the chemicals on that might make your baby break out or have an allergic reaction? I'm not sure about anyone else but when I return something, I try to put it back in the box the way I got it and try to tape the box back up as best I can because I know I don't want to purchase something that looks jacked up so when I return stuff, I don't return it jacked up because someone else may be buying it.

What are your thoughts on this?

Pregnancy Week Wrap Up: 35 Weeks

2012-07-28T17:35:00.001-05:00

1. How far along am I? 35 weeks

2. How much weight have I gained? I weight 202 so I’ve only gained one pound since last week.

3. What changes have I notice in my body? I’ve had another belly growth spurt. Until this week, I was still able to paint my own toes. Granted I had to maneuver around my belly and mainly paint from one side, but I could do it. Now I cannot. I’m also having little pains behind my belly button. The doctor says it’s nothing but it still hurts.

Advice my doctor is giving me? Be prepared. She said that at this stage and measurement (he measures at 38 weeks instead of 35) I could go at anytime although she would rather Ashten “cooked” at least two more weeks. She also advised me to prop my feet up more to keep swelling out of my legs and feet. But she did say that it’s important to get up and walk around so I don’t have that much round ligament pain in my hips. My Lamaze instructed told me that I need to start doing Kegel exercises and mini squats with my back against the wall. She said this would help when I have my legs in the stirrups waiting for baby to come, they won’t be so achy and tired.

5. How am I sleeping? Still can’t sleep well at night even though I’m still on the couch propped up with a million pillows. I go to the bathroom at least every hour or so to empty my bladder. If I don’t it makes me very uncomfortable. I may fall asleep around 11 or 12 but wake up again around 2 or 3. I think I finally get sleepy again around 5 or 6. Catnaps during the day are where I get most of my rest.

6. Best moments of the week? My son hugging me, rubbing my belly, and saying that he can’t wait until his little brother gets here. (Tear)

7. What food(s) am I craving? Olive Garden’s salad and chicken scampi. Oh and Popeye’s mashed potatoes. I haven’t been eating a lot of chicken lately, been on fish and vegetables so it’s good that I’m getting my love of chicken back. No wonder I’ve been packing on the pounds lately, huh?

8. What food(s) I can’t stand? Nothing that I put in this face turns me off, everything is good.

9. What am I looking forward to this week? I love my new Lamaze class. The one at the hospital where I’m delivering was sooo boring but this one is such fun and I’ve learned a lot.

10. What have I accomplished on my “To Do Before Baby Gets Here List”? Absolutely nothing. I’ve been busy getting Al’s school shopping done. Oh, I did add some more stuff to my hospital bag that my Lamaze coach suggested.

11. What I still need to accomplish on my “To Do Before Baby Gets Here List”? Still haven’t gotten a car seat yet or a baby bag yet. I don’t know why, I guess I’m just looking for something in particular.

12. Pregnancy thoughts for the week? I want this baby out now! I’m hurting but I really just want my baby.

35 Weeks...And Counting

2012-07-25T21:38:00.000-05:00

I am officially 35 weeks preggers today. Only five more weeks to go (sigh). I visited my doctor today. This visit was suppose to be scheduled for next week and would have been my last two week visit, but since the office has been so backed up with appointments, they got me in a week earlier. And since I'm now seeing them every week, I've got an appt on Monday.

I guess all the weight I had been bragging about not gaining suddenly decided that it wanted to jump on me these last weeks. Last week I weighted in at 201 , that was a five pound gain in just two weeks. So this week I only gained one pound so I'm at 202. And trust me, I feel every ounce of it. I've given up trying to dress cute and opted for anything that fits and keeps me cool in these 100 degree temperatures.

My blood pressure has been the same for the past two weeks at 110/60 so they say that's good. The one thing I wasn't expecting today was to have that GBS bacterium test. I knew it was coming but the always tell me what they are going to do so I'm prepared but they didn't. Not a big fan of the vaginal exams that I'm going to been having often, nor was I thrilled about the anal prob. Not cool.

Then I got a new doc today because mine was an intern and she's moving to Wisconsin. I don't want her to leave and I definitely don't want to have to get to know a new doc. I'm spoiled on my current doc and I dread going round and round with my new doc about getting that freakin Essure. Of course they want to know what type of birth control you will be using and when she took a look at my signed paper work she went in. I'm guessing they are getting a commission or something for talking patients into getting that crap because they sing such high praises for it. So damn sorry but I am not a follower, I know what I want and I don't care if I have to go outside their little circle to get it. I'm not sure what birth control I will be getting until then, I'm still checking that out. I'm just completely sure that I don't want any implants, period.

Another thing my new doc told me is that at 35 weeks, I measured at 38. WTH? So I read this article at Babycenter.com for a better understanding. My doc says that it's okay. She says that she would rather me be having a larger baby than a smaller baby. She also said that if I happen to go into labor at this stage, since the baby is larger than normal, most likely they won't try to stop the labor. Now I'm stressing because Ashten's father already has four kids, all of which were 9lb babies. What have I gotten myself into? Hopefully, Ashten is not big, just longer like Al was. Let us pray...

Yep Still Preggers

2012-07-23T09:57:00.000-05:00

I've been MIA, but I've been on the move. These last few weeks have flown by and I'm looking for the next five weeks to fly by too. Wednesday will mark 35 weeks for me and I am so anxious to be holding my baby boy in my arms!

He has really been taking me through some changes lately. OMG, I feel like a total hot mess! My back hurts, my stomach hurts, my hips hurt, my feet are swollen, and I can't get a good night's sleep to save my life! I swear Ashten is punishing me for having him so late in life. I remember pain and uncomfortableness with Al, but to this extent-hell no.

I just know that I am going to have stretch marks that no amount of cocoa butter can fix. I know they say that towards this end of the pregnancy the baby has less room to move around but I know this to be a lie. I am worried because Ashten tends to spend most of his time lying vertically instead of horizontally. Each time I go to the doctor, he is always head down in the correct position, but when I get him home, he attacks. As if that isn't painful enough, it's like once he gets in this position, he balls up right in the belly button area. Can we say painful!!

I started my Lamaze class last week. Actually, I started a Lamaze class at the hospital that I'm delivering at but it's at 7pm and I just didn't like the fact of being in the streets at that time of night and it's 30 minutes away. And the class was boring. Luckily I had signed up for another one at another hospital that is about ten minutes away (really wish I would be delivering at this hospital too) and the teacher is enthusiastic and makes class fun.

I also told you that I had started school. Well after completing a three week orientation class, I am now in my third week of class. It's been tough. I haven't been in school in two years so it's taking some getting used to and planning. I'm going on line to University Of Phoenix and it's taking a lot of time online but I am determined to get my degree in Human Resource Management. At this point, I think I'm just going to skip the associates because I'm thinking that I already have enough credits to go ahead and get my bachelors instead of wasting time and money with getting that associates certificate. Most of the companies and jobs that I"m looking into are asking for a bachelors anyway so the associates would be a waste of time anyway. And like I said, I've got enough credits to be classified anyway, I was just so amped up to get the associates as a halfway point, but figuring in the money, it doesn't make sense.

Oh, and looking back on the blog, I noticed that I never posted anything from my baby shower. I am so disappointed in myself for this because I was so excited and had so much fun. I promise I will do a back post about it. And speaking of showers, although I'm laid off for the summer, we have been having meetings and touching base so that we can plan for next season (tax lady here), my coworkers had me a diaper shower. Yes, a diaper shower. Since no of them were able to come to the shower they got together and did this for me. Luv them! Looks like I won't be buying diapers for a couple of months. Luv it!

Well, that's about it for updates. When I get this school thing down pat, hopefully I'll have more time to blog before my little man gets here. Maybe I'm speaking too soon because Al will be back in school in two weeks and it's new school and new uniforms for him so I'll have to see how that goes.

Death To Round Ligament Pain!!!

2012-07-13T21:18:00.001-05:00

I have had round ligament pains since forever and I can't wait to feel some relief. I've told my doc about it and she just keeps telling me that my child bearing hips are just getting ready for the big event. I didn't think that was as funny as she did.

This is mainly the reason why I don't sleep in my bed anymore. It's like if I lie down, when I get back up, my groin area hurts so bad that I am tempted to spend my last six and a half weeks sitting down because that seems to be the only thing that helps. Another thing that helps is wearing a support belt around my belly to keep my stomach lifted. The only thing about that is that it's so hot that wearing the belt for long lengths of time makes me hot and causes me to sweat.

I want my body back. I just keep telling myself, six and a half more weeks...

Pregnancy Week Wrap Up: 30 Weeks

2012-06-24T19:46:00.001-05:00

1. How far along am I? 30 weeks

2. How much weight have I gained? I weight 192 so I’ve only gained one pound in the last two weeks.

3. What changes have I notice in my body? I’m not comfortable sleeping in my bed anymore. No matter how many pillows I use, I wake up with pain in the leg and hip that I sleep on and it’s difficult
for me to breathe. Now I’m sleeping semi upright in a comfy chair with my feet propped up and feel so much better. I’ve stopped drinking every time I go to the bathroom so my one to two hour bathroom breaks have been stretched out to three to four hours which equal more sleep. Ashten’s kicks aren’t as powerful as they have been being. It used to feel like he was socking me in the

stomach with all his might but now they have gotten lighter. He is moving and turning over and changing positions a lot more. This is what is hurting the most because it feels like he is super long and he’s trying to stretch my stomach out of shape. I’m starting to notice the Braxton Hicks. I have been having those for awhile but just didn’t know what they were. Also, the belly wrap is helping with keeping my stomach up so that I don’t have as much pelvic pain when I stand.

4. Advice my doctor is giving me? Watch out for warning signs of premature labor and don’t be afraid to call her when I have questions or concerns. Keep taking care of myself and rest more with my feet up. Make sure that I get into a Lamaze class and get some breast feeding advice so I’ll be ready and encouraged to actually do it.

5. How am I sleeping? Sleeping better since I got out of my bed.

6. Best moments of the week? I’ve been trying to get Al to feel my belly when Ashten is kicking because he’s been asking question when he sees him moving across my stomach. He thought it was gross at first but now he hugs me and rubs my stomach and it’s afraid of it. My nephew Jon also asked to feel my stomach when Ashton is moving and thought it was cool that he kicked back when he pokes my stomach.

7. What food(s) am I craving? Subway is the bizness! I am obsessed with their ham and cheese on Italian herb and cheese with provolone, mayo, tomatoes, lettuce, bell peppers and onion. I also get tuna with the same things on it, but I read that I should only eat tuna once a week so I’m dealing. I also love grape kool aid and grape soda. Twinkies are my new Bffs too.

8. What food(s) I can’t stand? I usually love Subway’s meatball sub, but since I’ve been pregnant, it’s giving me heartburn so I have to stay away from it. I also use to love orange juice-namely Simply Orange. I use to drink a half gallon in a day or two but can’t stand it now.

9. What am I looking forward to this week? I’m going to my coworker’s daughter’s baby shower this weekend. More baby shopping. She missed my shower because she had her baby a month early so I’ll get to see her new baby girl.

10. What have I accomplished on my “To Do Before Baby Gets Here List”? Got my baby shower done and out of the way. I’ve been washing baby clothes and putting together baby stuff in preparation. Now I have a good idea of what I still need so I can finally go shopping without worrying about getting stuff that I already have. I also made up my mind on the pediatricians that I want to take Ashten to. I’ve called and set up a tour and Q and A just to make sure

11. What I still need to accomplish on my “To Do Before Baby Gets Here List”? I still need to clean out my bedroom closets as well as Al’s. I’m a pack rat and should have done this a long time ago. Since I had the bright idea to not move into a bigger place when I was suppose to (which I will definitely do when my lease is up) I have limited space and really need the closet space for baby stuff and just need to declutter Al’s room.

12. Pregnancy thoughts for the week? Being pregnant is fun one minute but tiring the next. I am just so ready to be holding my baby and playing with him. I’m also ready for my body back. I could be wearing some really cute outfits this summer! On the other hand, I hate how hot it is outside and pregnancy is making it 200xs worst. I don’t think I’ll be going outside again until October.

Review: Munchkin Baby Care Cart

2012-06-22T09:00:00.002-05:00

Product Description (from Target website) $22.59

Get your organizational skills on a roll with this organizing cart that keeps all your baby’s essentials within reach. Diapers, towels, clothing, accessories and changing supplies are where you want them no matter where you are. The large bottom bins hold your larger, heavier items, while the top keeps the little things at your fingertips.

Features: Hook and Loop Attachment Straps, Multiple Compartments
Material: Cotton
Care and Cleaning: Wipe Clean With a Damp Cloth
Dimensions: 34.0 " H x 31.0 " W x 14.5 " D
Weight: 7.5 Lb

Since I have limited space in my house at the moment, I saw this little cart in Target and purchased it about a month ago. I had read a few reviews that said the product was a bad idea and wasn't worth the money but honestly at that price what would you expect. It's not going to be the best of the best but it is sturdy and usable if you put it together correctly and don't put heavy objects on it.

All the pieces from the box

Anyway, I put it together yesterday and didn't have any major problems with it. Just so you know, I am one of those people that hates to read directions and that's probably why it took me over an hour to get it together. I do suggest that you use an electric drill or screwdriver (got one at Wal Mart for around $10 to $15 dollars) instead of a regular screwdriver. It's so much easier and you can get the screws as tight as you need them without any effort.

All finished!

The only real problem I had was that like most wooden things that you have to put together, the pre drilled holes are a joke. That's why I recommend the electric drill. To make some of the pieces fit, I had to predrilled the holes a little further so they would actually fit. I did end up splitting the wood on one the legs but once I got the cart together, you couldn't even tell that I had missed up. The cart does have a little wobble to it but it's still sturdy enough to hold up without me having to prop it against something like on of the reviews I read stated.

Finished cart with some baby stuff on it. It's really roomy!

Another problem that I had was that one of the wheels fell off as I was rolling the cart into my room. I put the cart together in my living room so I'd have more space. The wheel and the little screws that held it in place just feel off. Since I had already put stuff on the cart, I just decided that I'll fix it later. It's nothing major and can be easily fixed. And it still does not need to be propped up against something. It's still standing on it's own. I just know not to move it again or maybe I'll just take all the wheels off because I really don't need to roll it anywhere once I get it set up anyway.

Well damn! Everything was going so well...

Overall for the money that I paid for it, it is a good buy. Some of the reviews that I read were less than favorable but it's a cloth cart, it's cute and it does give me the space that I needed. If the wheel hadn't come off, I would have given a 4 rating, but since it did, it only gets three happy baby faces!

Good product