David’s Favorites at 9 months

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Conceal it

dfavs

I nearly have a 9 month old on my hands. That’s kind of hard to believe. His first birthday will be here before I can say sweet potato.

David’s world pretty much revolves around sweet potato anything these days. He loves them. He loves the sweet potato puffs so much that I’m confident he’d eat an entire container in one sitting.

He’s getting better and better at picking them up with his fingers. I look forward to placing small chunks of food in front of him and letting him pick them up! I’ve tried bananas and even small bits of avocado, but he does not like either. I’ll continue to reintroduce them as he may just need to get used to the flavor!

He’s sitting up really well and is sitting up for his bath time now. I got a soft mat* to put on the bottom of the tub, and picked up the classic foam letters/numbers too! He loves to chew on them.

His attention span is getting longer as I read him a few short books. I handed one over to him and he immediately started to chew. It took .001 seconds for him to start wearing down the corner of said book and I remembered receiving an “indestructible” book at a baby shower and grabbed that out of the cabinet.

We flipped through it, then I handed it over and watched him to to town on it. And nothing happened accept pages crumpling. I love these books and highly recommend them if you have a baby that loves to chew!

Any and everything is a hammer to David, so I found a cool toy on Amazon that he can actually hammer things with! OF COURSE he likes to stick the handle of the hammer in his mouth so he needs to be closely supervised while he plays with it, but lately he’s thrown the hammer to the side and is focusing on chewing on the blue ball.

His efforts are ineffective, but hey, at least he’s occupied for a bit as he works on it!

David2

A little morning play time while Grits takes a nap. 

I know I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it for the rest of my life, but every stage is gets more and more enjoyable. He’s giggling more, smiling plenty, and it’s just so cool to see him learn new skills.

He’s officially on the move these days too. He’s “army crawling” all over the place. I’ve already plugged the empty electrical sockets with plugs but we need to handle the lamp cord issue. Any tips? We can hid most behind our furniture, but there are some that we don’t have that option with.

As far as the new baby goes, all is well! Justin and I have the anatomy scan (which is also when parents can find out the sex of the baby) in 2 weeks! As of this moment, we are going to wait and find out when the baby is here in February. I absolutely loved knowing with David, and I think if I didn’t have him to distract me right now, I would not be able to wait a few more months to find out!

david1

This may just be my favorite picture of him thus far. 

I’m feeling better than ever now that my first trimester is more than over with. I’m 17 weeks and my energy has returned! Any nausea I had has passed and I’m trying to stay healthy and active. I’m not working out (like, heart rate up working out) at all. I know that being in good shape last time helped me recover from the c-section quickly, so now that my energy is back and the weather is cooling off, I’m going to try to be more disciplined to get moving. I can only hope for a recovery as great as my last one was (I will have a scheduled c-section, by choice)!

I’m savoring these last few months with just David, but am very excited to meet the little baby I can feel kicking around in February!

*since I wrote this post I found that the mat doesn’t stick well to the bottom of the tub. Just fyi.

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Marie says · 09.10.14

Love the update and glad to hear you are feeling better!

Just curious as to why you chose to, and will again, have a c-section? I’m just curious. I’ve had no children but hope to someday and I’m always interested to know others POV’s!

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Kate says · 09.10.14

Everyone’s situation is completely unique, so know that this is just a personal decision for me–although a vbac is an option because there was no medical reason that required a c-section in the first place (David was breech, that’s all), I’m not interested in taking any risks with having a vbac. I had a great experience with a c-section and the idea of doing that again sounds much more appealing than the unknown. Again, just a personal decision for Justin and I. 🙂 Like I said, each case is unique and each doctor is going to guide their patients differently.

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Marie says · 09.10.14

I think it’s awesome that you’re able to make that decision confidently! You know your body better than anyone and you must have great doctors!

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Kate says · 09.10.14

I had a c-section with first after I could no longer push and I am built small. 3 1/2 years later had a successful vbac and plan to with third. From research and Dr. I was told unless you had 2 years between you could not try a vbac. Would your dr and hospital let you if you would have?

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Steffi says · 09.10.14

I would like to know too why you choose to have a c-section?! I had my first son in May and even if it was not an easy journey I think natural birth was a great experience.

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Kate says · 09.10.14

Everyone’s situation is completely unique, so know that this is just a personal decision for me–although a vbac is an option because there was no medical reason that required a c-section in the first place (David was breech, that’s all), I’m not interested in taking any risks with having a vbac. I had a great experience with a c-section and the idea of doing that again sounds much more appealing than the unknown. Again, just a personal decision for Justin and I. 🙂 Like I said, each case is unique and each doctor is going to guide their patients differently.

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Msykes says · 09.10.14

Hi Kate- thank you for being so willing to discuss your c-section. I am 36 weeks and planned to have a natural birth, just to find out that I have a breech baby and will likely have a c-section. Though they can try to turn her, the procedure sounds risky to me and only has a 50% chance of working. I feel like c-section is the safest option for us at this point. Anyways, your blog and stories helped me be more comfortable with the whole decision. Much appreciation and good luck with your new little bean!

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Amy says · 09.10.14

Msykes – just wanted to let you know that my firstborn was also breech and I ended up having her turned and it was a pretty safe procedure that for some reason has a bad reputation! It took about 5 minutes and we were in the hospital and they wouldn’t do the procedure (ECV) until a c-section room was open just in case something were to go wrong. I ended up having an emergency c-section anyways for completely different reasons but I was able to have a vbac with my second child and the recovery from the vaginal birth was SO much better! I’m not trying to persuade you one way or the other, but if you had your heart set on a vaginal birth, I would definitely consider having your baby turned! Remember that all procedures and births can be risky!

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Msykes says · 09.10.14

Hi Amy- thanks for your thoughts, but vaginal birth in and of itself was not what was important to me. I wanted to have a natural unmediated birth bc I feel that it’s the safest. Now that natural unmedicated child birth is off the table for me (the evc procedure where I am requires and epidural and then pitocin to induce labor right after), I’d rather have a c-section. Everyone’s reasoning is different and I’m glad it worked out for you, but I’ve done research and I think a scheduled c-section will be the best (and safest) birth for us. There is only about a 50-50 shot of the turning being successful with first time babies anyways.

meredith says · 09.12.14

It has a bad reputation because (A) it is not effective, there is a 50/50 chance that the baby will flip right back around, and (B) it is not safe for the baby to flip that far into a pregnancy. The fact that you say “I don’t know why it has a bad rep” means that you need to do more research.
Sorry for getting angry, but my daughter flipped on her own at 38 weeks and sadly passed away due to getting wrapped up in her cord. I do not take it lightly when people suggest turning the baby as if there are no repercussions. Personally, having a healthy baby is more important to me than having some dream delivery instead of a C-section. I applaud Kate for putting safety first.

Jenna Taylor says · 09.10.14

Now might be a good time to start a little training concerning the lamp cords if you haven’t already. They’re something he’ll have to live with, so establishing some boundaries now while he is less mobile will help you in the long run. There’s always going to be that curiosity for things like cords and outlets. Now that my David is 3, I combat that curiosity by having take care of plugging in the fan or vacuum for me when I need them. After being taught how to properly use these things, he takes pride in being able to help mommy and curbs that curiosity…but we started long ago with teaching him not to touch, and then training when the time came. You seem like such a great mommy and I can’t wait til February to find out what your precious little baby is! We’re waiting with ours also, due in 7 weeks 🙂

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Andrea says · 09.10.14

Buybuybaby is my mecca for all things baby proofing. If they don’t have it there, you likely will either have to move the lamps to a location more secure or just supervise. We have mainly overhead lighting but moved a few lamps up higher where the cord wasn’t dangling.

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Melissa says · 09.10.14

You should supervise your children…that is what parents are suppose to do. You shouldn’t have to move everything in your house to have a child….. just be a parent, do your job and watch them and teach them. They will have to deal with things in the house all their lives. If you don’t teach them now not to touch certain things they will never learn. When you go out in public and other peoples homes they will touch everything and break stuff which makes people not want to be around you. Other people and places are not going to move stuff just because you didn’t teach your child when they were younger. It doesn’t take them long to learn. It’s life….they will be told “no” alot.

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Christina says · 09.10.14

How rude … Nobody has the right to post obnoxious, condescending responses like this unless you’ve raised the “perfect child” yourself …

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Krsmith says · 09.10.14

That is the most obnoxious and naive comment that i have ever read! There is no possible way that you can keep your eyes directly on your kid(s) ever second of every day! There are times that a mother needs to use the restroom, answer the doorbell, check on the dinner she is cooking, etc. And it is completely ridiculous to think you are going to pick your kid up and take them with you every time, which is why baby-proofing is a necessity!

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Danielle says · 09.10.14

Wow, do you even have children? I’m guessing not.

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Milly says · 09.10.14

Melissa did you teach your children that alot is not a word?

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Andrea says · 09.11.14

this is funny because my son until he was a great deal older was never out of my sight except for just a second here or there to attend to something. I just can’t watch my child 24/7 without fail. That’s the beauty of babyproofing it mitigates the changes something will go wrong. Also you can be watching and supervising your child and in the three seconds it takes you to cross the room they’ve pulled down something onto themselves. They aren’t always responsive to being told “no”. We’re all just doing the best we can.

I am obviously never going to be able to make my home 100% safe- it just isn’t possible. But part of my parenting and what I feel being a good parent involves- is creating an environment where my child can learn and safely explore. The anxiety of having to always say no don’t touch that, or move breakables out of the way just gets in the way of having a good time. He has his lifetime to learn to not touch things- and gets a healthy dose of it now when we visit friends and family. I just think at home we should be able to let our hair down and relax a bit.

But in my response- when I mentioned just supervise. I meant only supervise- as in not in addition to babyproofing and supervising together. I can tell you have some feelings/judgements on babyproofing and I am sure you employed them in your home and were moderately successful. Every home is different and every situation is different. I encourage you to give people a bit more latitude/grace when you are responding. I am a good mom- not a perfect one and I will continue to do what works best for me in my home.

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Amarou says · 09.10.14

I too am curious as to the repeat section “by choice”. The quick recovery with a vbac would be a blessing. Major abdominal surgery with a toddler and newborn doesn’t seem like a wise choice. Longer hospital stay, unable to lift David, higher risk of infection. Do research vbac a bit more.

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Kate says · 09.10.14

I typed up a response to the first comment if you want to read it 🙂 And a quick recovery from a successful Vbac, would yes, be a blessing. Assuming it’s successful, right? I have no way of knowing what this next delivery will be like, but my recovery last time was very quick and easy (virtually no pain). I will have help from my husband and mom ( and would regardless of what delivery method I went with) and I’m sure I’ll need it!

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Melinda says · 09.11.14

I have had 3 c-sections. I was offered the choice of a VBAC with my 2nd son, but chose to go with a repeat. It was what I was comfortable with. I can say each c-section was an easier recovery than the one before. There are no guarantees with any birth, so I think the best thing to do is go with what you’re most comfortable with.

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LillyB says · 09.10.14

I think Kate’s done her research! Vbac not for everyone

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Iana says · 09.10.14

I think it’s great that Kate has options. I had a vbac and the recovery was absolutely awful, so bad that I would much rather have a c-section if/when we have another baby. Seven months later, and I’m still recovering. So SO many stitches. Good thing this baby came out cute!

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Jamie says · 09.10.14

I had an emergency c-section with general anesthesia the first time and a VBAC the second time. My c-section recovery was amazingly easy and virtually pain free while my VBAC was the opposite. I had lots of pain and had an endometrium infection to boot. How to birth your babies is very personal. A VBAC was very important to me and I am happy that I experienced it even if it wasn’t an ideal experience, but the decision is so personal and shouldn’t be forced on anyone.

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Rachel says · 09.10.14

Those indestrucible books are great aren’t they? Paper is one of my little guy’s favorites, so it was nice to be able to give him something to indulge that desire to crumple and destroy.

I am tempted to wait to find out the sex on our 2nd, but I don’t know if I’d be able to stand it! I envy your steadfastness. So exciting!

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Allie says · 09.10.14

This post should be renamed to “Dave’s Faves”

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Kate says · 09.10.14

ha, yes. Next time that’s what I’ll do!

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Mandy says · 09.10.14

These outlet covers work great for hints already plugged in! My 16 month old was constantly unplugging the lamp and tv.

http://www.amazon.com/Safety-1st-Plug-Outlet-Covers/dp/B00FP1XKVK/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1410355969&sr=8-5&keywords=Outlet+covers

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Danielle says · 09.10.14

I have these also, and definitely recommend them! 🙂

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Erin says · 09.10.14

Also love these. Just installed them and they are a dream!

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Shyanna says · 09.10.14

I love Wednesday!! It is my favorite day of the week because I get to see pics of this sweet little munchkin!! It is so awesome to see every week how he is changing from a tiny baby into this little person. And his hair is getting so thick! He is just adorable.

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Jessica says · 09.10.14

I have never once commented, but I can’t help myself. Some of you people are ridiculous! It sounds like Kate has researched her options and knows the benefits and risks of both a vbac and repeat csection. Perhaps we should acknowledge that Kate knows herself, her body and her situation more than any of us relative strangers and respect her choice to do what she feels is best for her without attacking her and pushing what we think is “best”!! Again I am a first time commenter, but it seems like every post that isn’t about hair or concealer people are just waiting to make snarky comments! I love everything you write!

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Colleen says · 09.10.14

Totally agree with you!! 🙂

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Katy says · 09.10.14

That is the territory she has chose when you have a blog. If she allows comments she has to deal with all comments. People are entitled to their comments just like she is entitled to write about what she wants to. I am sure she is fine with the comments….she is making money off the blog….she gets paid no matter what comments are posted. I like Kate and her blog but most people put her on to high of a pedestal.

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Aimee says · 09.10.14

I completely agree! Thank you for saying something.

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Carla says · 09.10.14

If you don’t feed the trolls they will finally give up and go away!

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Tracy says · 09.10.14

Funny you would know that….. If it were a “glowing” comment nothing would of been said.

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Bretlynn says · 09.10.14

I totally agree Jessica! Just because there is the option to comment doesn’t mean a person needs to share every rude and judgmental opinion that comes to them.

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Aleassa says · 09.10.14

Agreed!

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Tilly says · 09.10.14

Jessica. It’s a public blog. It’s fair for anyone to comment.

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Jessica says · 09.11.14

You are correct. While this is a public blog, there is still the point of being kind. I highly doubt anyone would make half of these snarky snide comments if you were speaking to someone face to face.

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Lo says · 09.11.14

I would.

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Christina says · 09.12.14

Snark and sarcasm are simply a part of some peoples personalities. It isn’t necessarily them being rude it’s just them. I am one of those people who is sarcastic, snarky, and brutally honest. I am that way with other people and I expect to receive it as well. Princess Kate needs to grow a thicker skin and all of the rabid vanilla-army mommy fanatics who seem so desperate to protect her at all costs need to take a chill pill and have a seat. This is real life.

Emily says · 09.12.14

Totally agree Christina! To many people trying to hold the pedestal up.

Brett says · 09.10.14

I have a 4 year old and a 1 year old and I found they have a much easier time picking up mushy finger foods if you first cut up the banana, etc. and put it in a bowl and sprinkle the baby cereal on the banana pieces to coat them pretty well. Makes them much more “grabbable”(?). We never even used cereal as a meal, just used it for coating foods like banana, peach, etc.

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Kate says · 09.10.14

That’s a great idea–thank you!

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Mylene says · 09.10.14

I love this idea! Thanks for sharing.

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Colleen says · 09.10.14

Ah, I love reading your David posts. And I really like your explanation for a repeat C-section. As you said, it’s a personal decision and you have to do what’s right for you. I’m struggling with making the decision myself. I had a C-section due to a breech baby boy – also in December (but 2012) and also had a very positive experience!! I’m now 18 weeks along with baby 2 – also due in February!! and I need to decide on C-section or VBAC. The thing that I don’t want most of all is to go for a VBAC and have it end up a C-section. P.S. I’m also from northern IL… so many similarities!

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Debbie says · 09.10.14

I love that you are waiting to find out the gender of baby #2! My husband and I found out with our first but decided to wait with our second. When I was in labor, in the hospital having #2, we asked the nurses and later, the doctor, not to say the gender when the baby came out. They were so cooperative and when the baby was born, my husband looked and then he got to tell me, “It’s a little girl!!” I’ll never forget the sound of excitement in his voice when he told me. It was a precious memory we will always share. Good luck and congratulations on your upcoming arrival!

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Katie says · 09.10.14

That is a wonderful story!! It made me smile! 🙂

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Merril says · 09.10.14

I had my second C-section in March of this year. It was great knowing my oldest was taken care of before we went to the hospital and having a schedule set with my parents to look after her (no midnight surprises). Recovery from your second is much smoother than the first since you and your body already know what to expect and what the limitations are. Knowing this, I was out of the hospital 2 days after delivery and mostly back to normal within a week. The hardest part was that you cannot pick up your older child for a few weeks following the delivery. We set up steps for her to get onto the bed so I could snuggle with her without having to lift her up. Worked out great! I think you’re making a great choice and only YOU can make this choice.

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Julie Spady says · 09.10.14

Love the update! Two babies…you are very lucky! I have two also. They are now 22 and 25. They were both adopted because we had years of infertility issues. I was SO happy for you as your journey unfolded!

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Briana S says · 09.10.14

Just supervise him around the lamps- easy. I literally did not child proof a single thing in my home. Just watched my daughter and taught her what was “no no” She learned really quick. Better than wasting a ton of money on child proofing.

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JNJxn says · 09.10.14

He is such a doll, Kate!!! So glad to hear you are feeling better!!

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Kate says · 09.10.14

thank you!

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Angela says · 09.10.14

Wow, he is growing so fast. He has such a great smile!

My husband and I did not find out the sex of either of our two little girls. I love surprises so for me finding out would be like snooping for gifts before x-mas.

http://palsywalsyblog.blogspot.ca/

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Lindsay says · 09.10.14

I love seeing posts like this from you because CT was born the day before David was. So they are practically identical as far as milestones. CT is picking up food, but it doesn’t go anywhere near his mouth (ironically because everything else does) so he isn’t feeding himself yet. He also loves the puffs, but I have to be careful because he has started to choke a few times.

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Gretta F says · 09.10.14

Hi Kate, LOVE your blog (found you by researching hair several moons ago). But wanted to offer my sincere thanks to you – for voicing your opinion, your styles, your stumbles, your highly praised tutorials and your thoughts and so much more. SO many times I have learned something that I should have KNOWN (hello cosmetology license holder over 15 years here!) Don’t get me wrong, I read some of the things you blog, and if they don’t pertain to me, then I move along. Since my babies are 8 & 11 and I am not in the baby making mode of my life stage, I enjoy reading about your discoveries with David, but know that phase is over with now. What made me decide to comment was, the people who think you have to justify your decision making! If you don’t agree – just move along, life is some much simpler when you realize what is important and what isn’t! You have to make the best decision for your life; your body; your family. God luck, and bless you and Justin; I didn’t have the patience to wait on either baby, I wanted to know asap (with my oldest boy I JUST knew he was a boy! Had his name all ready to go, soon as it was confirmed he WAS Logan Russell! And that was that! My 2nd son, a little harder to name, and we didn’t pin that one down until I was almost 8 mths along Shane Robert) Shew – how time flies!

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Kate says · 09.10.14

Appreciate your support Gretta! thank you!

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Christina says · 09.10.14

I find it sad that some commenters feel the liberty to be so condescending and just downright rude… I bet they wouldn’t have the cajones to say these things in person 😉

Kate I applaud you for just allowing us faithful readers in to see a glimpse of your personal life … I for one find it refreshing that you’re able to combine the outer beauty (hair tutorials and makeup reviews) with the inner beauty (life with your husband, baby and family) … I’ve moved on from many a blog that I felt just didn’t fit into my early 30s lifestyle but I keep coming back to yours (and it doesn’t hurt that you have such a tasteful eye for such a simple, pretty monochromatic design) 🙂 God bless you …

and for all you haters, go find a new hobby and leave this still-new momma alone! She’s got enough to deal with, without your ugly attitudes…

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Tilly says · 09.10.14

Where did you sign up for the Vanilla Mommy Army? Relax.

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Lo says · 09.10.14

Where did you sign up for the Vanilla Mommy Army? Relax.

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caroline says · 09.10.14

Hi there! I’m also due in February with my second child after adopting our first just earlier this spring! With our first, she is starting to get to the point where she may be able to sit up in the bathtub soon. We have the other Skip Hop whale accessories, but didn’t get the bath mat as there were poor reviews on Amazon about it not sticking well to the bottom of the tub. Have you had any issues with that? It’s so cute that I really want to give it a shot, and I would love to hear an “actual person’s” experience rather than anonymous reviews!

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Kate says · 09.10.14

Yeah, mine doesn’t stick at all : /

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caroline says · 09.11.14

Well, boo!! I was hoping you’d get the good one. I’ll keep looking for something adorable…be sure to post if you find anything!

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Mom of a toddler says · 09.10.14

I used an inflatable tub inside the big tub when my little guy was first sitting up in there. Worked pretty well as a transition.

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Danielle says · 09.10.14

Love seeing posts like this. My daughter is about to turn 4 (OMG where does the time go?!?) and I had a c-sec with her, also due to being breech. We are currently TTC our second and as of right now, I’m pretty positive that I will choose a scheduled c-sec as well. For the same reasons as you, I had a fantastic experience with my first, recovered quickly, and overall just happy with how things turned out.

So, long story short, do what you feel is best for YOU and YOUR family, but know you are absolutely not alone in your decision. 🙂

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Jass says · 09.10.14

Hi
Can you tell how you sleep trained david? How you deal with growth spurts n teething?
I have a 3 month old who is not sleeping well

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Angie Schrock says · 09.18.14

Hi! I am not sure what your baby’s schedule is during the day, but I would highly recommend the book “Baby Wise, The gift of of nighttime sleep”. It talks about a schedule during the day (eat, awake, then sleep…in that order). Keeping them awake during their feedings ensures a FULL feeding and not snacking here and there. Then they need to learn to fall asleep on their own. Babies thrive on dependency and when they know they have it, they tend to be MUCH happier babies and start sleeping through the night. I have 4 children (4th was just born a couple weeks ago and is going 5hrs at night between feedings and 3.5 to 4 hours between feedings during the day). Now this style isnt for everyone, but I thought I would suggest it since it has worked for me. Good luck!!

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Jessica says · 09.10.14

I have only read a few of the comments but sadly have already seen too many critical people! I kno Kate ‘opens herself up to opinions’ by having a blog but it is seriously ok ones business to question her delivery choices. If you are curious about her thought process, that’s fine, but to tell her she needs to do more research and her decision isn’t a wide choice? Unacceptable. There are those of us who have had a c section by choice or not (in my case, not) and had a great experience. Like Kate, I had a very easy recovery and have talked to others how have delivered vaginally and had more difficult recovery than me. Every person and situation is different and it’s Kate’s right to choose what is best for her family without other moms telling her what’s best.
Also, Kate, in regards to baby proofing, you may want to consider stove knob covers too! I never thought of it until the day my son and I were walking around the kitchen and I realized he was already tall enough to reach them! 🙂 Live the pictures of the kitties hanging by David…so sweet!

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Stacy says · 09.10.14

+1ing “Dave’s Faves”

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Rachel McCoy says · 09.10.14

Just had to comment and say that my little guy who was born the day after David is OBSESSED with the lamp cord, too! It’s crazy! We have a floor lamp in our living room that he makes a beeline for every time I put him down. He’s army crawling, and this morning I put him in the middle of the room, stepped into the kitchen for a second and YEP there he is after that lamp cord! Loved reading this, especially since my guy and your guy are so close in age. It’s so fun, isn’t it? Loving this stage, challenges and all.

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Justine Brickner says · 09.10.14

Hi Kate, I just thought I would share what my 9 mo. Old did with a hammer! :). He liked to stand near a chair, and I was sitting in it with my iPad laying on the side of it, he took that little plastic hammer and smacked the home button once and it shattered my screen! Needless to say, 9 mo olds and plastic hammers are pretty strong! Lol!

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Lise B says · 09.10.14

Kate, I really enjoy your perspective and all your advice. Thank you for giving hopeful mamas like me lots of hope, knowledge, and lots to study on!

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Lisa says · 09.10.14

Pick up a bath mat at target. You can get one that runs end to end in the tub. Once David is mobile, he will want to explore the tub and trying to wrangle a wet baby into a small place where the mat is, is nearly impossible. They aren’t cute, but they are highly functional. One of the best baby products I’ve purchased and I recommend it to everyone!

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allison martin says · 09.10.14

Best of luck to you, I too had two back to back c-sections. Piece of cake. The worst part had nothing to do with the csection, it was having two under two! What were we thinking? lol. I wouldn’t do it over, but man I wouldn’t change a thing. Thanks for letting us join you on your journey. 🙂

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Blair says · 09.10.14

Kate, I love reading about your little one! He is just precious-and I can’t wait to see your second little one in February. However, I was wondering if you were going to be doing anymore hair tutorials and “real” fashion posts? I’m a 22 year old college student who is not interested in having children anytime soon, and I am finding it hard to relate to posts anymore. I know Wednesday is “David Day” and I never saw the survey results, but just wondering if this is going to become more of a mommy blog, and steer away from hair/beauty? Congrats again, can’t wait to see the gender of your new baby! Wishing for some more hair tutorials soon!

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Lindsay says · 09.10.14

I love reading your reviews of things and seeing your posts on David and baby items helps me pick gifts for new moms and my future self. Thank you!

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valerie says · 09.10.14

Here’s a little FYI that I can lend to you. I’ve had zero success with any of the bath toy holders. I’ve purchased the Skip Hop net with the suction cups, a Pelican that is supposed to stay on the edge of the tub while the toys reside in the beak/gullet and my best toy keeper has been a medium sized plastic basket with holes to drain the water that I found at the dollar store. If you find something better, please post.

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Nikkei says · 09.10.14

Hi Kate! My daughter is just a few days younger than David! One of her favorite recipes for avocado is one we call bananacado. I mash up bananas and avocados together she loves it! I’get found cutting things bigger helps her eat them more easily. I cut the avocado in big wedges so she can hold them in her fist. Also with bananas. Since I’ve done that she’s gotten better at picking up her puffs.

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Megan says · 09.10.14

My daughter was gifted that Hape toy for her first birthday and now, 7 months later, it is still a favorite! Even her 4-year-old cousin loves it. It definitely is a toy with some longevity, unlike the ones that are interesting for 5 minutes then forgotten.

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Caroline@CreatePretty says · 09.10.14

Hi Kate! We used the inflatable rubber ducky for bath time. I transitioned both my kids to the ducky around 6 months and they stay in it until 13-14 months. It is SO NICE because there’s no risk of them flailing around and if they do fall the ducky is super squishy! Also it has a hot tab inside that tells you whether the water is too hot. No matter how careful you are, distractions arise. Also it takes barely any water and I just hung it over the curtain rod to dry! http://www.amazon.com/Munchkin-White-Inflatable-Safety-Ducky/dp/B00BNEBL6E/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1410371770&sr=8-2&keywords=munchkin+rubber+ducky

We never had an issue with lamp cords. I’d say just pull them out of sight- out of sight out of mind.

Also good for you for making a decision that is right for YOU. I have had 2 c-sections. First was emergency. But I never want to be in that state of unknown limbo again. I’d have 10 more C’s if needed. You are very wise for making a decision based on what’s best for you. There will always be haters either way 🙂

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Lucy says · 09.10.14

Hi Kate, forgive my curiosity but are you having a boy or a girl ?
David is a wonderful baby.
My husband and I want a baby soon so your posts are very helpful. Thank you.

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Caroline@CreatePretty says · 09.10.14

She said in the post that she has her anatomy scan in 2 weeks but that right now they are choosing not to find out.

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Lucy says · 09.11.14

Thank you. 🙂

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Elizabeth says · 09.10.14

I can’t find what I have, but I did find these on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/KidCo-KO-078-Outlet-Plug-Cover/dp/B001SKKW0E to keep little ones from playing with outlets that you need to have things plugged into. It’s easy to find stuff for outlets you aren’t using, it’s a lot harder to find things for outlets you do use.

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Anna Lena says · 09.10.14

Hi Kate! I had my son a little over a year ago through emergency c-section. The doctors then told me that I should wait at least a year to get pregnant again so the uterus is less likely to rip once it grows again. But I really want my first two kids to be close together. Did your doctors tell you to wait too? Are there any precautions you have to take? Does your doctor treat this pregnancy as a risky one at all? I really don’t mean to scare you or anything. I’m just interested in your experience regarding that “issue”
I love love love your blog! And David couldn’t get any cuter! Such a chubby little sweety pie 🙂

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Shanna says · 09.10.14

As a Sonographer, I just have to thank you for how you referred to the anatomy ultrasound! Most people really think the entire purpose of that scan is to find out the gender, but honestly that is the least of our concerns when checking your little babe from head to toe. Very refreshing to hear that you are looking forward to the scan as a whole, not just the boy/girl scoop! Hope all goes well 🙂

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Emily F says · 09.10.14

Hey! Random comment… I have to use Feedly to tell me when new blog posts are available because I read waaaay too many blogs. 🙂 (I know.. using a reader isn’t the best. But I try to click over to the site to read if I’m not at work.) But I was noticing that I hadn’t seen a notification from your blog since the “Just a Minute” post. And since it had been such a long time, I decided to pop over to your blog and let you know that you were missed…. when I saw that you had been blogging all along and feedly just didn’t get the memo. So i added you to feedly again. Now the new posts show up, and your blog is listed twice – with the original ending at the “just a Minute”post. Anyways.. that’s a long story to say that some people might not know that you are back, if they had the same issue as me. So I wanted you to know that it happened. Or maybe I’m just special. 🙂 So, maybe disregard? ha! 🙂 But I’m glad you are back! And I caught up on all of the posts I missed! I love your blog! Side note: I have serious respect for you for handling the people who question everything you do or attack you for your choices. Your blog is awesome and I love that you share with us! It’s your life. You make your own decisions. If you want to wear orange eye shadow – rock it! If you want to have a second c-section – Good for you! It’s your body and your baby, I know you’ve made the best decision for you. 🙂 (a very late) Welcome back!

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suzanne says · 09.10.14

Wow….just scrolled through on my way down to the bottom and some folks were pretty out of line. I LOVED hearing that David enjoys the board book that you have! I love to give expecting moms a small basket of board books….some good ones at this age, have large, simple illustrations and limited text. Books about babies and their lives, animals, colors and objects in their world are perfect.(Goodnight Gorilla) Also perfect are “peek-a-boo” books, like “Where’s Spot”. (I’m a reading teacher) Our 3 daughters are all grown now (well 14, 18 and 21) and we have some favorites that have been put back together with clear packing tape. A necessity bcz they will chew them and sometimes be rough. Great places to buy them is Marshalls and TJ Maxx. All three of our kids have ADORED books from a young age and some of my fondest memories are of sitting with them in my lap, reading a book. They would toddle over to the book basket , get a book and back up and plop in my lap. Sweetness!:)

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Mom of a toddler says · 09.10.14

So glad I’m not the only one with clear packing tape on the books… I also shop the library used book sales. Happy reading!

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Mom of a toddler says · 09.10.14

So I think the amount of childproofing you do depends on your comfort level. I started out as a “just say no” but quickly grew weary of saying nothing but “no!” One thing that worked for us was to create a safe zone, we used his bedroom, where we totally baby proofed and felt comfortable leaving him to play alone for those times when you need to do that. We put a baby gate across his doorway and he was fine. We also placed a few strategic cabinet locks on the cabinets with cleaning products, but otherwise he has pretty much learned to stay out of things that can hurt him. We always say “hot” around the stove, etc.– you will find what works for you.

So glad you are feeling better. Enjoy the second trimester!

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Christine says · 09.10.14

Hi Kate!
To help baby proof our home, I took large plastic storage bins/totes with lids that were filled with outgrown baby clothes (or blankets) and placed them in areas of our house I wanted the baby to stay away from (like areas with cords, sharp edges, etc.). I admit it makes the house look pretty cluttered but it sure helped out this momma! Sometimes my babies would get into the bins so I’d put the bins upside down or you could just use bins with hard to open latches. Also extra tall bins help since it makes it harder to crawl on!
I’ve been reading your blog for over a year. Yours is one of the very few I read regularly–I really enjoy all types of your posts and find them very relatable. And David is seriously super cute!

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Anita says · 09.10.14

I’m not getting into the debate about c-section, natural birth but wanted to mention a cheap and easy bath time solution.

Although I’ve not used this method personally it’s only because I didn’t hear about it until after my girls were perfectly fine sitting in the tub unassisted.

Several friends have turned to the simple plastic laundry basket (Like this one: http://www.target.com/p/sterilite-1-5-bu-medium-rectangular-laundry-basket-white/-/A-13771721#prodSlot=medium_1_7&term=laundry+basket).

The reason they like using the basket is that it helps the baby sit up without the fear of falling over and hitting their head on the tub all while keeping their bath toys closer to them. It’s also a simple clean up because you let the water out of the tub and turn the basket over.

I’d suggest trying to use one if the mat doesn’t seem to work out for you.

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Bella McIntyre says · 09.10.14

I’m glad that you bravely state that, by choice you will have a repeat c-section. I went the same route as you, first c-section due to my daughter being breech and just had my second, a little boy in July and opted for a scheduled repeat c-section, by choice. I could’ve tried for a vbac but just like you opted to not chance anything. I had a very pleasant first experience and my second was even better. I hate how I felt like I had to explain myself regarding opting to have a cs again. You go girl! 😉

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Melissa says · 09.10.14

Kate — just wondered if you took the blog feed off Feedly — it no longer publishes there and I was missing it. I figured you were taking a longer break than you originally had planned but then came the actual blog to find that I had missed out on an entire week. Excited to catch up but missed seeing you on Feedly.

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Tricia says · 09.10.14

Those book are great, aren’t they?! We have a few and my little guy loves to chew on them. We are also big lovers of the Plum Organics puffs! I was going to look up that bath mat, but was bummed to hear that it didn’t work very well. I was told to also try putting a folded bath towel in the bottom of the tub so they don’t slip. I know it’s more laundry, but I’m going to give it a try.

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Leigh says · 09.10.14

My oldest son is 3 and he still eats puffs. He absolutely loves them. You are so great for being open about having another c-section. I’ve had 2 c-sections (my first was breech and my second was an emergency, although I had one scheduled) and every time I mention it, I receive very negative feedback. Good for you for knowing your body and doing what you feel is best.

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Holli says · 09.10.14

I love reading about David and what he’s doing at different stages. My little guy was born on the same day 🙂

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Michele says · 09.10.14

I have also had 2 C-sections and I wouldn’t have done it any differently. I have had a few people give me some negative feedback or tell me I was “uneducated” for having them but I think it just goes with the territory. I look at it as the way God designed me to give birth and it’s really not their business anyway. Also, I didn’t think recovery the second time around was that bad. Good luck and know that you have many readers praying for you and your growing family! =)

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Jennifer Appleton says · 09.10.14

My first is due in a month. I’ve never heard of these indestructibles books before. I’m so glad you posted about them! I think I know what “Junior” will be getting for Christmas haha 🙂 Thanks for posting a round up of favorites! (And thanks for the follow up on the bath mat because I had been looking at that one, too!)

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Emelyn says · 09.11.14

What an adorable boy! I love reading your blog. So glad to hear that your nausea has gone away. Hang in there, mama!

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Theresa @ AMomInTheMaking says · 09.11.14

Kate,

I got outlet covers for our lamp from Babies R Us… they still leave the cord exposed, but at least your baby can’t pull out try to replug in the cord. My only hesitation would be you want to make sure your lamp has a small plug.

When we bought them it didn’t work on all our outlets because the plug (on some of our things) were too big to fit inside the cover. Lamps are probably fine, but it was a problem that I hadn’t though about 🙂

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Jessica says · 09.11.14

David is so adorable! Glad you are comfortable with your decision to have a scheduled c-section & I hate that so many people are being negative. It is your body & your decision! I had one last July at 40w6d due to failure to progress after 36 hours of labor. I went into labor on my own, but my cervix never dilated enough. I was ok with it at that point & just wanted my baby to arrive safely! We are hoping to become pregnant again next year…my OB advised waiting at least a year. I don’t know which route I will choose – VBAC or c-section. I will just have to see how my body does with the next pregnancy & make an informed decision when the time comes. Our bodies were designed to do such amazing things & I am still in awe of the whole pregnancy & birth process! Good luck to you & I hope your recovery goes as smoothly with baby #2!

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kristin says · 09.11.14

Instead of a tub mat I always used a regular washcloth for my children to sit on. Helped keep them from slipping! Saves money too, since I already had them in my closet.

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cleta says · 09.11.14

try this as a tub mat…http://www.buybuybaby.com/store/product/puj-reg-nbsp-tub-in-soft-infant-bath-in-white/1017173928?Keyword=puj…it’s considerably more expensive but I’ve been using mine sine little girl was taking baths in the sink. it has magnets that stick together to make the infant tub and bonus the magnets stick to the tub when they are older.

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Lisa says · 09.11.14

I just have to pipe in. I don’t usually comment but I feel as though I had to. For some reason decisions we make as parents seem to bring on the biggest debates and people just can’t help but bring their claws out. Maybe it’s because parenting has no set right or wrong in most cases but to think of making the wrong decision for the little life that means more to you than your own is heart wrenching, so we attack others to make ourselves feel vindicated. I am unfortunately guilty of it myself. But I will tell you, I made the decision to have an all natural birth, I chose to breastfeed and both have been successful and the physical recovery easy but you know what, my journey into motherhood has been so hard! I insisted on all of these decisions that I had read all of the information on and knew all of the statistics about and still emotionally I am a mess. Maybe if I had been a little less concerned about doing what statistics said was the “most important decisions” and said “you know what, my baby will be born safely and will always be fed” maybe my mind set would have been different, maybe I would have been a bit less hard on myself, and maybe I could have entered motherhood with a bit more grace. Being a mother is SO HARD! It is the most beautiful journey I have ever been on but it is hard! We all as mothers need to lift each other up, not pull others down. It takes a village to raise our babies, lets be more of a village. Kate, you are a wonderful mother and your baby is beautiful. Your next baby will be too. I hope if you ever need a “mommy pick me up” you can know that there are a band of others out there that would agree

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Stephanie says · 09.12.14

I love this comment!! Lisa, you are so right. It does take a village and we need more mommies to share that vision 🙂

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Jessica says · 09.11.14

I have a 16-month old and you’d actually be surprised how quickly he loses interest in something! Maybe David’s different in this respect, but with cords like lamps and the vacuum, we’ve told him no and redirected him and now I’d say it’s a non-issue. Also we just moved into a new apartment and their light sockets have this little panel behind them that moves to the side when you plug something in. Makes it so that nothing except a plug can go in the outlet 🙂 Isn’t that awesome?!

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Kay says · 09.12.14

We have a white bath mat with multi-colored circles from target. Munchkin I believe? Have had it for months and it doesn’t budge on the floor of the bathtub! =]

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Angie Schrock says · 09.18.14

Hi Kate!!! David is adorable! And congrats on baby #2. Like you, I found myself in the same situation with our 2nd. Our 1st was breech, so we had a scheduled c section. Our 2nd was delivered 22mo later via c section. I have had a total of 4 successful c sections, but wanted to share with you my experience bc of the unknown and learning A LOT when one has multiple c sections.

Bc our 1st and 2nd child were not 2yrs apart from birth to birth, my original incision from previous c section started pulling apart (uterine incision) creating what they refer to as a window. Bc of the discovery of this window on my uterus during the birth of our 2nd child, we were advised to wait a minimum of 2 yrs before getting pregnant again to give that incision on the uterus time to heal.

Our 3rd child was delivered via c section 3years later. That pregnancy/delivery was better bc of the time span between the previous c section and the new one. I did still have a window with the 3rd delivery, but it wasnt as bad. We were advised again by our OB that we could have another, but needed to wait again to get pregnant to give that incision time to heal.

God clearly had other plans and when our 3rd was 11mo old, we found out we were pregnant!! Trust me when I said I was terrified of the condition my uterus was in and “could it handle” another pregnancy so close to the previous pregnancy/c section?? I had to put 100% trust in God knowing this was HIS baby and HIS blessing. I did have a rough pregnancy bc my incision did start pulling apart MUCH earlier in the pregnancy (probably bc it didnt have as much time to heal) and I had to be admitted to the hospital around week 29 and had to stay until the baby was delivered. This was a rough time for our family, but again, God provided….childcare, visitors at the hospital, etc. I had a sono every week from perinatalogy specialists to sono/view the growth of that window. By week 34, we were unable to tell if the window was still growing, but thought it best to continue to stay in the hospital under close observation (a uterine window can easily rupture and if this happens, patients tend to not make it to the hospital in time….more for baby’s sake than their own). By God’s grace, we delivered our 4th, healthy, beautiful baby Sept 3rd, 2014 via c section, only my “window” was a “sliding glass door”. It was larger than the size of her head, and one of the biggest my OB has seen. Being in the hospital for almost 8 weeks was rough to say the least (esp when we had a 6, 4 and 18mo old at home) but God carried us though.

I am not telling you all of this to scare you, please, I sure hope I haven’t…that was not my intention, but merely to inform you and to consider asking your Dr to check your prior uterine c section for a window (they do this by external and internal sono, and they should be able to tell around 30 – 33 weeks). Dont ignore any lower abdominal pain or cramping like feeling. These can be indicators of a “window”. (I was not aware of this with our 2nd and brushed off the indicators/signs to “i am pregnant, therefore i am going to be uncomfotable”. It was a good thing i decided to mention them at my 35 week appt bc a sono did reveal i had a window and i was sent straight to the hospital bc i was also having regular contractions – which can cause a window to rupture, so she was delivered 4.5 weeks early, but a healthy baby).

Like I said, I have had 4 healthy, beautiful children, all delivered via c section. Everyone heals completely different and who knows, you could be completely fine!! But i just wanted to share my experience bc of my lack of knowledge in the matter at the time, and I wish I would’ve known. I have learned a lot in re to high risk pregnancies and uterine windows. Good luck and we will be praying for a safe and healthy delivery and another beautiful baby!!

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