Making Room for Baby

Yes, I'm making room for baby's exit. I've started all my little exercises that are supposed to aide in a faster or easier delivery. I also have raspberry tea extract on hand, but can't bring myself to take it. I've also started the process of gathering items for my hospital suitcase. I'm still surprised with some of the items, but I'll get to that in a minute.

Where am I learning all of these things??

From our NCT antenatal class.

What else have I learned??

I'm not ready for this birth thing.

Our class consists of two Saturdays and one half day for the ladies. So far, we've made it through one Saturday. This is actually a neat program. The NCT (National Children's Trust) offers antenatal, postnatal and breastfeeding courses. The classes are very small and the people in the class are based on where you live and your due date. Our class is made up of six couples. Unfortunately because we were not able to sign up at the beginning of our pregnancy, we were put in a class with a group that is in a different area. It's close (by Texas standards), but they will all be delivering in a different hospital than we will. However, I hope that we will walk away with a few friends. One of the main reasons I wanted to sign up for this course versus something that was offered by the NHS.

Our instructor seems like a great lady and very familiar with practices in other countries. She has spent several years in the States and Australia, as well as other countries (you see how well I take notes in class). I was glad to have someone that was familiar with the process that we are used to - well, not from personal experience, but from what we used to as a nation and from what my friends have always told me. Also, the baby book I've been following over the course of the pregnancy is a US book.

Based on all that, this is what I would expect with a US delivery (I'm sure my friends that are mommies will step in and correct me). Labor starts, drive to hospital, get in a bed, wait for a 3cm, get an epidural, sigh of relief, stay in bed, doctor comes in and catches the baby. I know it's not easy, but very straight forward - it's the norm in the US.

Here, they really encourage you to stay on your feet or knees. They supply those giant exercise balls, birthing pools and beds that sectioned into three parts to allow your tailbone to point down. It all makes sense, really. I mean, let gravity help out, right? Plus the position of your tailbone when lying down creates a barrier for the baby to "escape."

Although I'm in total agreement with all of this, part of me wants to just be in the bed, strapped to machines. Not on all fours or on my knees.

Because they suggest you be on your knees or feet during labor, epidurals are not as common here. Less than 50% of the women in the UK have them. The main form of pain relief is happy gas and a TENS machine.

I'm sure most of you are familiar with happy gas. Should I be shocked that Scott and I were the only ones in the class that raised our hands when asked "Who here has tried it?" No, but I kind of was. Yes, happy gas the same stuff you get at the dentist. Except it's not free-flowing, it's self-administered through a tube that is breathed it in like an inhaler. And not that reassuring as a form of pain relief, if you ask me...

A TENS machine is a device that you attach on either side of your spine in various locations on you back. It sends electric signals that after about 30-minutes to an hour allows your brain to stop receiving the signal of pain from your contractions. It's very common and most pharmacies and hospitals rent them to you about 3-weeks prior to your due date. You must start these at home when your contractions begin because it can take so long to block the signal. Also, this should go without saying, but you should remove it if you plan to have a water birth.

I'm not totally convinced I want an epidural, but I am so relieved that it is an option for me. I was extremely worried that it wouldn't be offered.

Our instructor keeps mentioning how long the average labors of first time mothers are. This is also something that is stressing me out, a bit. I hope I'm as lucky as my mother and sister-in-law. Only a few hours of labor (or less) and then it's over.

Oh, yeah... the suitcase. Here are things that we are asked to bring to the hospital. I'm only going to list the things that I would have expected the hospital to provide or that I just couldn't figure out:

Comfortable clothes (that you deliver in - like a hospital gown)

ice (yes, ice), bring your own ICE.

wash cloth

bendy straws - I thought those were almost exclusive to hospitals

hot water bottle or heating pad

breast pads and other "ladies things" for after baby's birth

towels, your own towels

For baby:

diapers (errrr, nappies)

baby hat (wasn't that always a cute souvenir from the hospital??)

cotton balls (cotton wool, here)

olive oil (wth?? are we cooking up something??)

Surprising what the hospitals don't provide here. But, again... who knows what the hospitals in the US are charging insurance companies for a nappy and cotton balls. All I know is that I might have to pack TWO suitcases to hold all this crap. I take less stuff when I go on vacation!

So, I guess I'll have more to report after our next class, which I guess involves what to do after you have this little creature. And after your mother leaves you to go back home.

OH! I totally forgot to mention how surprised I am at how well Scott is doing in this class. I mean, I'm not surprised that he's doing well... but, that he actually seems glad that he's gone. This is someone that wouldn't even watch some birth show on tv. I think he's taken more away from the class than I have and I know he'll be the one to remind me of all the things we've learned. He's definitely the rock in our little family, and this is event is no exception.

Changes

When my mother spent some time in India she said she enjoyed it so much more when she decided to stop thinking of ways that the country needed to change. Of course she was referring to piles of garbage heaped on the ground and people urinating freely in the streets.

I realize, too, that I keep wanting to change things here. But, I guess if it were like home then I might as well have stayed put. However, I think if I could implement just a couple of changes, I could possibly become a gazillionaire.

The first is something like an MLS and a CCS service when it comes to real estate. When we told Erryl, our estate agent, how things worked at home when it came to real estate listings and showings, he was blown away at how much easier it was on everyone involved.

I've mentioned this before, but here if you want to view a property, you must call the listing agent or listing company to view it. The person looking to buy the property pays the estate agent fees, too - which kind of stinks because after a day of showing you HIS listed properties and you go with something else, he's SOL... some other agent gets the money. Erryl especially loved the idea of CCS (centralized showing service), since they don't have key boxes here, the listing agent meets you at every single property to let you in. CA-RAZY.

The other thing that I would like to introduce here is this fantastic, new device called a fax machine. Oh, and email, too.

Actually, most of the UK probably knows what it is, but the NHS has no clue. Yes, yes... I've been pretty hard on the NHS, and today is no exception.

Did you know that here, you keep your own medical records??? And if I'm traveling (being pregnant), I should have my records on me at all times??? This is incase I have to go to another hospital while away - or have to go to an ER not at my assigned hospital. I have to admit, I feel kind of naughty being able to look over my own records, but that's not the point.

I guess I shouldn't be surprised that when a hospital has to post a banner stating that they are "open 24-hours for you" that I also shouldn't be surprised when they can't make a phone call or a use the fax to get information. Simple things that could remedy the situation of someone keeping their records on them at all times.

The other reason I bring this up is that I did get in with my future hospital. This is the hospital that is closest to where we will be living. I guess getting out of the hectic city, they aren't quite as busy and bookings go much faster. YES! And, I must say that they are super friendly. However, I had to go through the exact same 2-hour question and answer list that I had just completed at another hospital two weeks ago. Seems like there could be some kind of computer link for a "national" healthcare. But, that would just be too easy. Now, I have to go back in to meet an OB... which I just did at the other hospital last week. Wouldn't it be easier AND save money to just have that other OB fax over the blood work results instead of taking another pint of my blood?? Guess not. Maybe they are stockpiling blood for vampires... yes, that craze has hit here, too.

But, like I said... if I didn't want to experience something new and different, I could have stayed home.

The good news is that everything is still normal (a whole week later). Scott and I start an antenatal class this Saturday. Not sure I'm ready to know about all this labor and delivery stuff. But, I do think that the midwives seem to offer a more supportive environment than what we are used to at home. And though I'm not really looking forward to the actually birthing process, I think I'm glad I'll be able to experience with a midwife. And for my parents... yes, it's in a hospital and yes there are doctors incase of emergencies.

Another Snag... (and I don't mean the one on my sweater)

I should have known that things were moving along too smoothly. I was beginning to accept life here and that things were finally working to our favor.

Yesterday started out great. Although it started out waiting over 2 hours in at the antenatal clinic at St. Mary's hospital, we did get to see a doctor and got a scan (sonogram). Oh, and that was with an appointment. But, everything is normal and on schedule. Baby's weight has me a little concerned that we might be ahead of schedule. Shoot.

After a quick bite at a Lebanese sidewalk cafe, we headed out to Ikea to do some shopping for the new house. In fact, we got most of the furniture ordered with the exception of the dining room - which has to be picked up in store (well, purchased in-store, but can be locally delivered). So, after a long day of decision making, we headed back to the hotel to put our feet up. Shopping is definitely hard work, and if you've never been to Ikea, just compare it to walking about 10-miles through a winding maze, with no quick way to really get to what you need.

If you'll remember, our move date is June 28th, about a week and a couple days from now. However, yesterday evening, Scott received an email from the relocation company that the current tenant will not be able to leave the premises as early as promised. It could now be as late as July 15th. It appears that the property she is buying has hit a snag. And once again, I'm appalled at how the system works here.

To be fair, she did originally say the date in July, but when we asked if the property would be available earlier, we were told a quick "yes, June 28th." The entire reason we didn't go with a property in Chiswick that, to be honest, we could probably be in by now. Although promised a date, it seems that she still has the right to remain in the property. Leaving us in the hotel another two plus weeks.

Let me explain why this is so disheartening. One... my mother arrives the day before we can now move into our new place. Two... we just ordered a couple thousand pounds (£ not lbs, well... it could be lbs) of furniture to be delivered a day or two after our promised date. Three... and the biggest, we now only have a week, maybe two, to get things moved and assembled before I give birth. Oh, and this could slow down me getting in with the hospital in that area, so... I may just be "popping in" to give birth, without having seen the facility or met a midwife or doctor there. Hopefully I can get in, because if I just pop in, and they are busy, I think I'm shuffled off to another place. I might have that wrong, but I've read of such nightmares.

There is a chance that we can take possession before this date, but I've really lost all hope that it will happen. Let's just say that I'm definitely not holding my breath.

I feel so bad having my mother show up, only to assemble furniture and to help set up a house. She just moved herself. I feel terrible that I will not be as able to assist in moving things around because I'm sure by that point I won't want to leave the sofa. I really hope that "MINI" decides to stay put until his delivery date. Because if he doesn't, he will only have one outfit, one blanket and the pram from his stroller to sleep in. Unfortunately, the rest of his items are in our ground shipment, which arrives to our new place when we do.

So, what have I learned so far??

Don't move to England when you are unable or don't have time to deal with snags. Move there before you get pregnant, or have children, don't bring or acquire any pets, bring a good sense of humor (which I think I've left in the US) and bring Mylanta. You'll need it.

The Sun is Shining

...and in more ways than one!

Yes, the weather has been sunny and warm (well, with the exception of expected rain today). Yesterday was quite muggy and felt a little like home, except about 20 degrees cooler. I was definitely surprised to find a tan line on my feet at the end of the day. I didn't think that was possible around here, especially since every other ad on tv is for spray on tanner.

Two other reasons the sun is shining on us is.... drumroll, please....

YES! We found a place to live!! What a huge relief. It was between an attached house in Cobham, or a below ground floor flat in Chiswick. The Chiswick flat was great, except for the kitchen. I think a 3-year old designed the layout. Also, the garden was not terribly large, and with it being below ground level, we didn't think we would have much air flow during the summer months. I know I've mentioned this before, but you have to think about noises and airflow when windows are open because on warm days, windows are all you've got. Well, that and a fan.

I've mentioned Cobham before, but I'll remind you why it's always a debate... it's in the country. Not a bad thing, we like the country... but, it is about a 45-minute commute for Scott. However, we've been told that even areas like Chiswick can be the same amount of time if the tube lines are down (which is often with some lines). To get to Cobham, Scott will take the overland train. Faster speeds and fewer stops means about 15-minutes longer than a normal commute to Chiswick. We hope. However, Scott has the ability to work from home a few days a week. Good for him, good for me, good for bonding time with junior.

The house is great! The only downfall is that it is a two-bedroom place. So, for all you visitors, we will either have a sleeper sofa for you or an awesome, large, tall air mattress. I've heard they've made great advances with the air mattresses, so I may go that route. The plus (and I would really be lying if I said these things did not factor in on my decision) is that there is a washer AND a separate dryer!!!!! HOLY COW!! I stopped dead in my tracks the moment I noticed that. I think everyone knew that this place was it. Also, we will have a nice large side-by-side American refrigerator, another rarity!!! Not that we keep a lot of food in the house, but we do like COLD beverages and this way we won't have to keep restocking the fridge! Unlike the dorm room fridges in the other places. Other features were a large garden and a large green area in front of the house. Also, a large green field across the street, and friendly people that greet you as they ride by on their bicycles. It's about a 15-minute walk to the high street and about the same to the train station. We will have a really easy drive to Heathrow to pick up any guests that fly in. And of course, we're already shopping for a car. The high street in Cobham has a lot of the same shops that you find in any other area of London. Also in Cobham is an American school, so I've heard the American population is pretty high. Cobham is home to Scott's favorite football club's training facility, Chelsea. I've heard several of the players and wags live there (not that I care, but some of you might think that's cool). Also, Cobham is very close to the large estate homes where John Lennon, Ringo Starr and other rock legends lived in the 60s and 70s. Several other "villages" of about the same size, some larger, are all within a 5-minute drive of Cobham. Have I sold you on it, yet??

I know we are farther out than we planned, and guests may not be as excited about that, but I think they will enjoy winding down in Cobham at the end of a busy day in town.

The other good news?? Well, we finally have an appointment with a midwife. Can you believe it?? About three weeks ago, I did an online self-referral to another hospital in London. They scheduled me in for the 9th of June. I have mixed feelings. Though I'm glad and it is at the hospital I wanted, I know I will have to start the process over, again. I think this hospital is a stretch to get to when we move. However, I've been told that hospitals outside of town are much more accommodating because they aren't as crowded. In fact, Epsom (the hospital I would probably go to when we move) has a walk-in antenatal clinic. Yay!! I hope to get a scan soon (sonogram). We haven't seen the little one for quite some time, now. But, he reminds me throughout the day that his arrival is getting close. He has kicking and hiccuping sessions multiple times. Most big movements seem to be around midnight. It's kind of funny to see your stomach make sudden jolts all on it's own. I know very soon those movements will be gone because it's getting close to the time where he will be too big to move around much. Not looking forward to the foot in the ribcage stage.

Our moving date is at the end of June. I hope that the next few weeks fly by faster than any other. In the meantime, I'm making my list of furniture items and doing some online shopping. I think we'll have to plan a trip to Ikea... but, perhaps during the week. You'll know what I mean if you've ever been to Ikea on a weekend.

Feeling Kind of Guilty

Yes, I'm feeling a little guilty after yesterday's post. I mean, yes things are getting down to the wire, and yes I hate NHS and yes... we still don't have a home. But, I've neglected to mention some of the things we have done over the last week or two. Just so people know it's not all doom and gloom. Everyday.

If I've gained any weight, I am blaming it on my pregnancy. It's definitely not because of all the great restaurants we've found. Actually, I think I'm doing well... not that I've had access to a midwife to tell me these things. Shoot, there I go again.

Anyway, so far my favorite place is great for mexican food. It's called Wahaca. If this place were at home, I'm sure it would be the correct spelling of Oaxaca. Besides that one little irritating factor, this place is awesome. They have a great menu, using in-season veg, local meats and the freshest of dairy products. You can order a traditional dinner with sides or they have a tapas-style selection. Awesome! A great way to sample different things and getting a taste of what they are all about. We've been there twice, so far. My favorite is the new potato taquito, topped with a salad of lettuce, feta, tomatoes and a spicy sauce.

While we are on mexican food, I'll also mention that Cafe Pacifico was as close to TexMex as we will find. I had the cheese enchiladas... I mean, you can't get more TexMex than that, so a great meal for judging. Recently opened is a Chipotle, with more to come (I have this on good authority) and Cantina Laredo will be opening in a few weeks. So, sounds like the Tex Mex bug has bit London.

We've had some great Middle Eastern food at a place down the road called Nar. It was hard to pinpoint what nationality the menu was, so I'm just going to say Mediterranean. There were a few Lebanese items as well as Greek and Turkish. I always prefer Lebanese food in London to home. The lamb is so delicious in the dishes where I am used to beef (the all-American substitute). This, of course, cannot include the foods that my grandmother cooked. Her cooking still reigns supreme. Beef or not.

There is a great little pub down the road from where we are staying. It's called The Rose. I wouldn't consider it a gastropub, but they seem to pay great attention to the food they serve. We frequent this place at least once a week. Good pub grub and gourmet, alike.

In Clapham Common, the place I now know I would like to live, has a great high street. Loads of vendors... flowers, seafood, olives, nuts, veg. And great stores like a local cheesemonger, clothing, TKMaxx (yes, tK). This place is also known as Nappy Valley. You know... diapers. Looks like a great place to have a little one AND a social life.

One day we went to the Museum of London. Recently re-opened this past week with an entire new wing. It starts with London... before it was London, goes through Londinium, middle ages, black death, fire, rebirth, war, war, right on up through the current day. Very interesting and fairly interactive bits for children. Especially in the new wing.

We journeyed out to Kew Gardens and spent a few hours there. We also became members, so that we can take visiting guests. Also... the places we are looking to live are close in proximity to Kew and we hope to be able to go often. Kew is HUGE. In fact, we didn't even cover much, though we were there forever. We are saving the treetop walkway for another visit, but it's something that we both can't wait for. Perhaps a weekday trip when the park isn't so busy. Kew is the home of the world's oldest pot plant... in case you needed a bit of trivia today.

So far my favorite place that we've visited is The Chelsea Flower Show. This is a HUGE event that happens once a year in London. The Queen even attends the day before it opens. There is also a daily hour-long television show during the entire week of Chelsea. We went on Friday, the day before it ended. Which, I found to be a great day to go. I learned a lot about the flower show from the televised show... so I went in only to be MORE impressed knowing the amount of work that goes into it. There are about 20 gardens on display. They are very large gardens, too. These are planned for about 15 mos, grown in a location, dug up, transported and replanted at Chelsea. And I'm talking real trees. Not the little wimpy trees you buy at Lowes to plant in your yard. I mean TREES. Full grown trees. On display were also Urban Gardens for smaller spaces. These were more artistic and whimsical, but still impressive. What talents. We also walked through a massive pavilion where nurseries show of their newest varieties of plants but all displayed artistically. And probably my favorite, though the smallest was a pavilion of floral design. You can tell, in all areas of this show, that these people are masters of their art.

I have also signed up for and attended a crochet class. A girl from NY teaches it at a yarn store on Carnaby St. For those of you that know sixties fashion, you will know this is where it all started. Neat area, containing one of my all time favorite London stores (though I can't afford it), Liberty. Anyway, the class was fun and I can't wait to go this week. Actually, I'm the only one crocheting, everyone else is learning to knit. So far, I've learned to chain stitch. I've got a long way to go.

We keep trying to get to the Golden Hind, but either we decide to go on a day where they are closed for lunch or we aren't in the area. Drew says this is the BEST place for fish and chips. Urban Spoon seems to agree with him. I'll let you know!

Here are some links to places mentioned:

http://wahaca.com/flash/main.html

http://www.cafepacifico-laperla.com/

http://www.therosepublondon.co.uk/

http://www.museumoflondon.org.uk/

http://www.kew.org/

http://www.rhs.org.uk/

Also, if you want to see some of my photos from around London, here is my flickr site:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/arrtx1/