Baby's Break

Just about an hour ago I started freaking out because it occured to me that I hadn't felt the baby move at all since late last night. Usually he is rolling and kicking like crazy but he has been so inactive today. I know I am prob. being really paranoid but I decided to call and leave a message for the OB requesting a quick listen to the heart. I think I need to hear that heart beat to convince myself fully he is ok. I did feel him roll around about an hour ago but again nothing since then so I will just have a little listen and rest assured.

On a lighter side, because work was a lot lighter today I had the opportunity to get some of my "baby chores" done. (It is amazing the long list of things you have to consider when you are having a baby.)

- Pediatrician:
I can't tell you how crazy it is to be considering what doctor will be his doctor. I love it because it is so concrete!! I am trying to go by what baby center and other pregnancy websites recommend in terms of when you should be doing what and next week it is find your baby's doctor. I have to say those websites are really valuable!
Today I scheduled a meet and greet with the pediatrician recommended by Maggie. I have to say I already love their office. They are open 364 days a year and even have appointments as late as 7 p.m. This is so perfect for a working couple!! Not to mention the secretary was super nice on the phone and had no problem guiding me through a lot of the things I wouldn't know on my own. Their office is close to our house too which I think will be really helpful for when the little guy is sick.

-To Daycare or Not to Daycare?:
My ever continnuing quest for good daycare has lead me to look into a place called Sugar Plums which is right down the street. I scheduled a visit with them on my lunch shift but I asked about their pricing and they are pretty high as well. So far we can't find any daycare facilities under $1400/mo. and that is a big ouch. Actually I don't even make that much a month so with that option it is almost best if I don't continue (too bad I love my job). I am going to check the place out anyway though it is within walking distance although everything around here is just too whopping to imagine. I have done some research on in-home daycares (ie providers who are using their homes as their daycares) and I have found some people who are recommended in Howard County. Trouble with that one is I don't think I can get Stan comfortable with leaving the baby with them. I heard that these places are usually a lot cheaper but one piece of advice I learned is when you put your child with an in-home daycare facility you have to find other sources to watch your kid when the provider is sick or when they want to take their vacations. Plus I have a little tramatic memories of my own courtsey of Bev Stork's place.

-Maternity Leave:
I am trying to schedule a time where my supervisor and I can get together to discuss this. Although barring any unplanned issues I do know my last day will be December 5th.

- Nursery:
Have the paint chips and the wallpaper now all we have to do is purchase the paint and then we are ready to go. We are thinking next weekend (since Stan is really busy with work this weekend).

-Name Search:
I think we know what the name is now. I am not really going to make any formal announcements though because you never know until the no going back time.

-Birthing Classes:
We are all set for classes in Labor from October 13th to November 10th. I figured hearing that in small doses maybe for the best.

-Hospital Tour:
Scheduled for November 5th

-Breastfeeding Class:
Scheduled for November 13th although I am still not really sure how much you can learn without the baby there

There's more but that is all I can think of to tackle at this point.