2 Months Postpartum

I hope you had a Merry Christmas! I sure did! It's been awhile since I've had the time to blog. So this is basically an update. The baby was born on October 17. He is so cute! So far his big brother loves kissing him and putting the pacifier in his mouth. He wants to share his food and toys with his baby brother so badly. I have to constantly remind him that he's just a baby.

I thought it would be harder with two kids, but so far it's pretty easy. This baby is very different from my first. He loves a lot of comfort!! Don't they all, but with my first he was pretty calm. Once fed and diaper changed he would stay down and simply look around until he fell asleep. This baby however prefers I hold him all day and all night! Love him!

Baby's Weird Habits
He sleeps with his head on one side and tilted so far back it almost touches his shoulders. When he wants to be held and I'm occupied doing something(like cooking)...he sucks his hand or his top lip. I try to avoid him from doing so with a pacifier, but sometimes he prefers to spit it out and suck his lips.

My Body

I am back to my pre-pregnancy weight(125lbs), however my stomach still needs a lot of work. I recently bought a splint to speed up the process. So far I've had some success, but my cravings for cakes and tarts over the holiday haven't been much of a help.

Labor and Delivery
I ended up having another C-section, because the baby was not engaged. As much as I wanted to have a successful VBAC..it just did not happen. Overall, the entire process went well and my baby is healthy. If you would like more details, contact me. I'm grateful to God.

I'll try my best to post every week on Fridays. Follow me on facebook at heartmamavi.
Share, Comment , & Subscribe. Here's a virtual pina colada on me HAHA!

  

Peace and love,

 

HeartMama

33 Week Prenatal Update!Please Read!

Prenatal Updates
On Monday was my 33rd week prenatal visit. My midwife confirms the operation report is good and we can proceed with having a successful VBAC. She also recommended that I drink Red Raspberry Leaf tea 1 cup a day and at 36 weeks two cups everyday. WARNING: She advised me that if I started having contractions/cramps/any pain/discomfort stop drinking the tea until I reach 36 weeks, and then drink 2 cups a day.
Check out this link: http://www.bellybelly.com.au/pregnancy/raspberry-leaf-pregnancy-red-raspberry-leaf-tea#.UjCb5U7D_ug

This will help with making labor progress faster and open up my pelvis. She also suggested that I do 10 squats daily and at 36 weeks as much as possible. Also sitting with your legs open (like I have a choice lol) also helps open up the pelvis. So I'm following her suggestions and being hopeful that it helps.

Baby Preparation
Having another son is awesome, because I don't have to buy much.
My Baby list consisted of:

• Mattress (*Won't be necessary until the 3rd month)
• Size 1 diapers (*Newborn diapers are usually too small)
• Socks (* Can't reuse my son's they're so worn out)
• Towels & Washcloths
• Nipples & Bottles
• Baby Wash
• Brush & Comb
• Diaper Bag
• Bottle Brush

I got mostly all the items on my list from my awesome family/friends and some items I got for free online. So far I washed the bassinet, arranged my son's clothes that way I know which bag has the 3 mths clothing...etc., and that's about it.


Heartmama Update
My weight hasn't changed since my last prenatal visit; I am still 145lbs and my stomach is 41.5 inches. Yay!! Unfortunately, I still have a ridiculous cupcake craving.

Blueberry, Banana Nut, Cookies & Cream, and Mocha Chocolate cupcakes were delicious!

I probably should've taken a better pic, but hey it does the trick. Here's my belly pic.

So usually I relax my hair, but I haven't for almost 3 months now....so I've decided to go natural. Had enough of the chemicals. So I'll also post some updates on my natural hair journey. Here's my 1.5inch new growth.

So far in terms of typical pregnancy symptoms...my neck got darker, no pregnancy look on the face, boobs did not get any bigger Yay!!!, and that's about it. The only thing that has changed significantly is the size of my belly lol.

I'll post some pictures of my cute baby stuff , belly bump..etc., in the near future. Let me know if there are any specific topics you would like me to discuss. Have a blessed day and do remain
amazing!

OMG! 30 Weeks Pregnant!

Finally, I'm 30 weeks pregnant! My last visit was last week. I now have to visit the doctor every two weeks.  Everything's going great so far. My pre-pregnancy weight was 125 and my doctor suggested that I gain only 25lbs. I am currently 145lbs. So only 5 more pounds to go! Keep me in your prayers.

With my first pregnancy I had a C-section. For this pregnancy I have decided to have a VBAC(Vaginal Birth after Cesarean).  I've done my research and I feel it's a great option plus I'm an excellent candidate.  Right now my midwife says they have to obtain information on my operation records to find out if the incision on my uterus is vertical or horizontal. The external incision is horizontal, but she states sometimes the surgeons cut the uterus vertically. Strange! If it's vertical that means another C-section, but if it's horizontal "it's a go".

Anyways I pray that everything is in order for a successful VBAC. I will give more updates. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.

Heart Mama: Sex During Pregnancy

Heart Mama: Sex During Pregnancy: Thanks to my new Facebook page Heartmamavi, I was able to receive a topic suggestion. What is sex like during pregnancy? With this pregna...

Sex During Pregnancy

Thanks to my new Facebook page Heartmamavi, I was able to receive a topic suggestion. What is sex like during pregnancy?

With this pregnancy, sex is much more enjoyable. I'm thinking it's because I'm not as uncomfortable being pregnant as I was in my first pregnancy. Plus, I haven't gained as much weight and I pretty much feel the same way I felt at 3 months. I think what helped the most is before sex even  happens, you and your partner should find positions that works for the both of you. That way when sex is about to happen the moment isn't killed by trying to figure out what position works/will work.
I would recommend:

• Use pillows to support the belly in "doggy style" positions and side positions
• Being on top is always an awesome position 
• Use lubrication as necessary if you're in air-conditioned or fan on with no sheets settings
• Keep the lights on as always... will make you feel more comfortable knowing your partner finds you highly attractive with a huge watermelon in your belly :)
• Use a chair with a sturdy backrest to hold on to while your partner relaxes
• Avoid tiles and hard floor settings, can be extremely uncomfortable obviously
• Sitting on a "not too high" table is another comfortable position while your partner does most of the work
• Days when you don't want to be too physical, oral sex works!
• During sex try not to think too much about your belly and focus on pleasure

Pregnancy can cause you to be tired at times, but don't let this affect your sexual life with your partner. Try to boast your energy by exercising and eating super foods.  I hope this helps. Remember everyone is different so what works for me, might not work for you. Let me know what works or worked best for you all.

With Love,

HeartMama

Heart Mama: Follow me on Facebook & Twitter

Heart Mama: Follow me on Facebook & Twitter: Hey everybody! I know it's been a while since I've posted. But everything's going great so far. I am now 22 weeks. According to ...

Follow me on Facebook & Twitter

Hey everybody! I know it's been a while since I've posted. But everything's going great so far. I am now 22 weeks. According to my pregnancy app, the baby is the "length of a spaghetti squash"; the size of my belly makes me think the baby's much bigger.

I finally decided to start a Twitter account and a Facebook page just for my blog. So follow me on Twitter https://twitter.com/Heartmamavi and on Facebook at Heartmamavi.

With Love,

HeartMama

Midway Through Pregnancy

Guess what!!!! I'm 20 weeks. That's right I'm halfway through my pregnancy. I went to the doctor today and she said everything looks "perfect". So I'm pretty happy about that. Because the last visit she was talking about bacteria and anemia....I was a bit alarmed about that. I wish to share videos and more detailed picture, but I'm respecting my love. He's a bit "old fashion" lol!! Anyways I can share with you an image of what my belly looks like at 20 weeks. So far I've only gained 10lbs (pre-pregnancy weight 125) which I'm proud of.

Cute Lil Baby Boy Belly

Chat with yal later!!!

 

 

With Love,

 

HeartMama



My Husband Is Always Right!!!

Why does it seem like my husband is always right about everything? So we went for the ultrasound and while the lady was going over my belly...I saw a penis! I was the first to notice it. With that said...ITS A BOY! I'm super excited to meet my second lil' boy. My hopes is for him and his brother to have an awesome relationship.

Right now our living situation we have 1 additional bedroom. So it works out perfectly. Hopefully, by the time we do have a girl we will have all the space she needs. I saved all my son's baby stuff. So the only expenses I have with this baby is the cost for delivery and my doctors visits. I am grateful.

I have another doctors appointment this week. So I'll find out the results of the ultrasound. So now the big challenge is coming up with a boy name. My husband wants to name him either Bones, Samson, or Barak. All of which I do not like at all!

 

Have a blessed day and feel free to share your comments. Keep me in your prayers. Let me know if you have two sons, or all boys, and how is to deal with them?

 

With Love,

 

HeartMama



Two More Days Until the Ultrasound

I am so excited that this week my husband and I will finally get to see our bundle of joy inside my womb. He thinks it's a boy and I think it's a girl, but whatever sex the baby is we will both be content once our baby is healthy. We haven't searched for name options yet, Hubby wants to wait until he knows for sure what gender the baby is. This should be very interesting. He thinks he's right about this, because he was right about our son...so we'll see. Having a boy would be cool too. He'd get to use his big brother's stuff and my son would have a little brother to tumble around with. But a little girl would be cool too...I could get to do all the Mommy and daughter things.

Today was such a productive one for me, I taught my son his lessons, did some light cleaning, and cooked a soup for dinner. It came out pretty good. I'm not a huge fan of soups, but when I do attempt to make something I try my best to make it taste good.

Chicken soup

Anyways, I'll keep you all updated on everything. Let me know if there are any hot topics you'd like me to talk about. Have a blessed day!

With Love,

HeartMama

Healthy Baked Turkey Patties

I intended on making a lasagna today, but Hubby suggested I make patties. Then all of a sudden I started craving patties. I had some ground turkey in the freezer so I decided to make them healthier than the typical fried patties.

Step 1

First make the dough:
2 cups flour
1/2 shortening
1/2tsp curry
salt to taste
cold water

Mix the flour, curry, and salt. Then add shortening...with a fork mix them together until the flour looks like little balls. Then add cold water gradually to form a dough. Around 1/4 cup more or less. Refrigerate for about 4 hours. Then remove from refrigerator and let stand for 20 minutes.

Step 2

Then with a rolling pin...roll the dough out and cut in circles using a cutter or a cup( I used a cup).

Should look like this.

 

Step 3

The Filling:

In a pan heat some olive oil. Then add onions, pepper, and garlic. Let cook till onions are transparent. Then add ground turkey. Cook turkey till brown. Throw off all excess water. Then add thyme, 3/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1tsp vinegar, 1tbsp rum, 1 tbsp. tomato paste. Mix these ingredients together then add 1 cup of water and simmer for 5-10mins. Add salt and pepper to taste. You can add other seasoning such as paprika, oregano, garlic powder...etc. for added flavor.

Cook mixture until it's brown.

Step 4

Last step fill patties with filling.Using a fork press edges together.

Edges should look like this.

 

 

Step 5

 

Bake in 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30 minutes or until brownish.

 

Serve and Enjoy!!!! Any questions or comments feel free to share.

 

With Love,

 

HeartMama

Yummy Sweet and Sour Chicken!!

It's easier to order Chinese takeout/delivered, but it's healthier to create your own take on some of your favorites. My favorite is Sweet n Sour Chicken. Below I'll give you a few easy steps to create this dinner.

Step 1

To make the sauce: bring to a boil 1/2c unsweetened pineapple juice, 1/2c lime juice, 1/2 tbsp. arrowroot, 1/2c ketchup, 1/2 vinegar, and 3/4c brown sugar. Boil until the sauce is thick and all the sugar has dissolved.

Step 2

Whatever chicken parts are your favorite, coat them with seasoned flour and fry on both sides in extra virgin olive oil.

Step 3

After your chicken is golden brown or somewhat brown put them in a shallow baking pan, add the sauce, and then bake for 30mins in 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Should look somewhat like this or better!

Step 4

Complete your sides. With my chicken,  I made noodles and watercress. To make noodles boil then stir fry(with 1tbsp olive oil) with vegetables of your choice.

 To prepare watercress...boil 1 cup of water, turn heat off, add watercress, stir and let sit for 5 minutes.(Optional: add a little salt and pepper to sides).

Step 5

Serve and enjoy.

Any questions or comments please share.

With Love,

Heart Mama

Tonight's Dinner: Curry Coconut Salmon

Some of my many joys are cooking and baking. I was born and raised in the Caribbean, therefore most of my foods are inspired from the Caribbean culture. Tonight I made Curry Coconut Salmon. Below I will give you step by step instructions on how to make this delicious yet simple meal.

Step 1
Bring to a boil 1 can of coconut milk, 1/2 tbsp. curry powder, 1 tbsp. lime juice, chopped onions, chopped watercress, 2 minced garlic, 1 tbsp. arrowroot(for thickening), and seasoning to taste(salt, pepper, garlic, paprika, oregano, thyme). Boil for 8mins.

It should look like this.

Step 2
Chop your salmon.

 

Step 3
I did not take a picture of this step, but coat the salmon with olive oil. Season to taste. In skillet heat both side till they're brown. This will give the salmon some texture. Another option is to cook the salmon in the sauce made above in Step 1 and ignore Step 3.

It should look like this...blackened salmon.

 

Step 4
Prepare your sides. I made mines with brown rice and broccoli then serve. Happy Eating!!!

Looks tasty huh? It was! :)

 

Hope you enjoyed this recipe. Any questions or suggestions let me know.

With Love,

Heart Mama

Heart Mama Update

ALERT: This is an update so I'm jumping in and out of various topics. Bear with me. :-)

On May 1st, my son celebrated his 2nd birthday. Just when I thought he was growing up, it seems like he has taken one step backward. Recently, he has been crying a lot more than usual, tantrums are rampant, disobedience has increased,  he frequently wants to be held, hugged, and kiss. Some of my friends suggested that his reaction can be due to my pregnancy. It's not the easiest situation to handle especially with an increased level of hormones, but I always remind myself that he won't be a toddler forever.

I made my first fondant decorated cake!!

If you're wondering how I'm coping with being 4 months pregnant plus dealing with a 2 year...let's just say, some days I wake up and wonder, what have I done to myself!!!! But most days after admiring the beautiful 2 year old I helped to create, it makes this pregnancy journey all worthwhile. Some days I have a burst of energy, and other days I feel nauseous and lazy.

Next topic, I waited until 3 months to go for my first prenatal visit. I was taking my prenatal vitamins on most days (when I actually remember to take them), and I ate balanced, healthy meals. However, yesterday the doctor called and said that I have to come to the office tomorrow, because my lab results showed that I have anemia and bacteria in my urine. I know what you're thinking, this could've been detected/treated much sooner. Procrastination got the best of me.

I've always had an issue with low blood so I know how to increase the count in less than no time. I usually drink fresh cocoa imported from Dominica(for tea), eat lots of green vegetables, soups, and beans. Works every time! So I'm remaining optimistic about this entire situation.

On June 5, I'll be having my first ultrasound. My husband wanted to wait till the end to find out what the sex of the baby is, but I want to know. I told him I could find out and not tell him, but he believes I cant keep a secret. lol!!! It doesn't matter what sex the baby is I just want a healthy baby. But knowing helps me to be more organized and prepared. If it's a boy, I have all my son's things saved up, but if its a girl I'd like to add a little pink to the collection.:-) Either way we'll be ecstatic.


My son at 21weeks (2011).

Feel free to comment on any of the topics. If you have some suggestions feel free to share. Have a blessed day!!

With love,

HeartMama

Baby Making Attempt #5

Technically it has been 6 attempts, but I decided not to count the 6th, because we tried just  a couple days before my expected period. With that said, the past five months has been filled with much  disappointments and pleasures all together.  It was So hard knowing that we were healthy and ready and still unable  to get pregnant.  It was a tough journey but guess what!!!???  I'm pregnant!!!!!!!! Yayyyyyy!!!!!!
So I know.... you're probably wondering what we did differently. So we did some research and we saw that sperm could survive in the females body for a few days. For the past few we've been having sex every other day, every other couple days, or... few days.We  believed that they would survive between the days we missed. However  this month we figured the sperms aren't surviving; probably they exited with gravity.  So we had sex everyday, even two times a day on the most fertile days, which was two/three days before expected ovulation and POOF!!! My period is gone!!!!
So for all those out there trying,  don't give up, and try this method. It worked for us and maybe it will work for you.
Have a blessed day. Please leave any  comments or questions you may have.  I will definitely respond.