I am an aunt, and I read The Happiest Baby on the Block before I babysat my three month old nephew for the first time for several days while my brother and his wife took a little vacation. It gave me a lot of confidence and I learned a lot about what babies like. Good luck! I know you and Don will be awesome parents!
You are looking so bright and healthy! I love watching your videos and seeing you happily preparing for baby girl! You are indeed nesting. Our Jennifer (DIL) is due in June. We are so excited. I wish you and Don the very best. I know your baby girl will be in a good, safe home surrounded by plenty of love. I wish every baby could enjoy having a life that is safe for them with loving parents like you and Don and our Jennifer & Jason. Stay well and have fun anticipating baby girl! Hugs. Susan
I'm 25 and a graduate student in California. I've been watching your videos for a while and I never really wanted kids (they stress me out) but watching these videos has made me warm up to the idea. You just seem so happy! My sister had two miscarriages before she was able to become pregnant so I understand how excited you must be to have a healthy baby. Congratulations :)
These weekly updates are still a highlight of my week! Seeing how happy you are and appreciative of all the support and encouragement from everyone just brings a smile to my face. Gymboree was one of my favorite stores for my daughter. Those blankets you received are too adorable :)
You are such a delight to watch! When you said it takes you a long time to be comfortable with people in your real life, it made me realize how lucky we all are who watch you and get to know you this way! Even though (I think) I'm older than you (39), you inspire me so much and I enjoy seeing your life, if only snippets. You're a lovely person and I can't wait to see be a mommy!
FYI- I am actually a postpartum doula, which I had never heard of when I was pregnant...we go into the home after you give birth to assist with any baby care needs, questions, etc. much less "invasive" than labor/delivery doula, you should definitely look into that!
I love these updates! Hope you are feeling better!! I am 7 weeks pregnant finally after 3 1/2 years of infertility. I love watching your videos especially the pregnancy ones!
Thank you for sharing your update Jen! It's so random, my husband walked in as I was watching this vlog with, and says. "She looks different" I told him, "Yesssss she's pregnant!" he's watched you in passing as I have your vlogs on. and he says to me, "She is glowing! " 😂 It's so rare for him to pick up on these things! I of course teared up and told him all about how very blessed you are to have babygirl! I pray the rest of your pregnancy goes smoothly and your delivery is quick and easy! I know you are going to be a great mother and Don a great dad! thank you so much for letting us be part of this journey! Hugs and kisses to you four! 💖
So happy for you Jen. Nothing warms my heart more than to see a baby come into this world that is loved and cherished by the parents. A really good book I would recommend is Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child. I used these techniques on both of my kids and they are still awesome sleepers! My 4 year old was sleeping for 10 hours a night at 3 mos! Unfortunately my milk stopped because there was no more nightly feeding 😢
I was flabbergasted at how well the crying techniques worked from the Happiest Baby on the Block book. I hope you are as happy with the book as I was :-) What an exciting time!
Hi Jen! First, I wanted to say congratulations on your pregnancy!! That is so exciting!! Secondly, I wanted to describe better what a doula is. A doula is a woman who is trained and very knowledgeable about pregnancy, labor, and childbirth. Her job is to emotionally support the mother in labor, keeping mama informed about what's going on and how to help her through each contraction. Whereas most everybody else is focused on baby{not a bad thing!}, she mothers the mother {mama needs lovin' too. Plus, it's shown, mama's who are mothered in labor better bond with and are more mothering to their babies}. Doulas have significantly helped the mother have a good birth experience. Yes, there is pain, but pain has a purpose; it means baby is making her way to this world. You do not have to suffer; suffering is different than pain and will not help you have a good birth experience [ this is yet another way a doula can help you- support you in your choices & / or help you find positions/ techniques to make contractions easier, for lack of a better term}. Remember, this is hubby's first time too; he needs as much help/ guidance/ encouragement of a doula and ideas to better help/ support you for the birth of your baby. As a side note, actually now is the best time to hire a doula [if so be you want to]. You have the option to interview as many doulas you'd like. You will know the perfect doula for you because you will connect, you will feel safe, and you can trust her that she will support you and your choices whatever they may be. Another thing that I would like to point out is that labor is when you will be most vulnerable to do whatever your care provider says to do to save you baby [and absolutely there are times when baby or mama is in danger.]. Now is really the best time to educate yourself in labor and set up your birth plan. Do you want an epidural? Do you want pain relief medications? How do you think you want to handle the pain? Would you be disappointed if you had a c-section? Do you want to eat/ drink during labor? Do you want to move around during labor? If you had to stay in bed, would you want to find positions that you can move in while still in bed? Do you want immediate skin-to-skin with baby? Do you want to breastfeed her? Who do you want to hold her first. What are your thoughts on immediate vs. delayed cord clamping? How would you feel if you got something you didn't want? Or didn't get something that you did want? How does your care provider feel about what you want? Will he/ she support you in your choices? These are some questions that I would recommend thinking about to get what you truly want in you birth experience. Most importantly, realize that you were made to , that you can do this! Childbirth is so so beautiful especially when mama has that good birth experience that she wants [whether at home or at the hospital, medicated or non-medicated, vaginally or by c-section]. Much love, Lauren
Hello Jen! I know you said you would not be videoing the baby shower (which I totally understand!) But I do hope that you do a baby shower haul, if not that's ok as well. Plus, these videos will be something your child treasures. Praying for you and your health!
Baby 411 is my go to baby shower gift. Great choice! It's SO helpful to have on hand when you have those questions in the middle of the night about something that is going on with your baby.
I loved your view on labor. Enjoy your pregnancy, deal with your labor and then enjoy you baby/ new family. Labor is the shortest amount of time spent in this entire process and I feel people spend entirely too much time focused on it. It's actually a very small price to pay in the grand skeem of things.
Have you and don made any progress on names? I know you probably won't release her name until she's born but I was wondering if you guys have found a naming style you like or even have any you agree on yet?
Hi Jen! Congratulations to you and Don on your baby girl!!! I am so happy for the 2 of you. I'm going through fertility issues myself due to PCOS and i understand the long road that you both had to walk down to finally have this blessing. I'm not sure if you have answered this already in previous videos but will you be getting an epidural? or will you try to do everything as natural as possible?
I soooo enjoy these weekly pregnancy updates and I'm very excited for you and Don. You're going to be such wonderful, loving, parents. "Baby Girl" is a lucky little girl :-) I hope you don't get "the bug". Drink your tea and rest. Wow, 28 weeks....how time flies.
Will you do a children's book collection video? Also, do you plan on doing Vlogidays? We'd love it! Or could you Vlog everyday (with a camera) for at least a whole week in December, if you don't want to do the whole month? That's my question. Thanks!
Looking great Jen! Just a suggestion for the closet doors - when you take out the doors put in a tension rod, and hang curtains instead of doors. Hope you're well!
Would you ever consider a video on mental health? I feel like you would have wonderful insight. Love your videos! You're doing so well with your pregnancy
Jen, so glad you are true to yourself regarding privacy etc. You are good inspiration to people to stay true to who they are yet open to listening to options. ;-)
Hi Jen! I recently started watching your channel and I love your vids! I also just would like to stay that until your snap vlogs, I thought your dog in the background of the video was a pillow. No joke!
Please talk more about your little lady's movements, kicks etc. I'd love to hear more of how u feel her, rolling, jabs, or how are her movements. Is don able to feel her yet? Does she have patterns to her movement? Do u feel her more at night erc thanks! Love your program
Are you planning on doing a final "pregnancy" update for the week after she is born? I know you will be very busy as a new mama but I'm sure I'm not the only one who would love to hear you talk about how everything went, the story of when you went into labor, how you have been feeling since giving birth, etc. It would be sweet to see it all come full circle in a final update. Get well soon, Jen!
Do you have any thoughts or ideas on when or if you're going to have family portraits taken at some point after the baby comes? Are you going to try to stay in the hospital for the first few days after the baby is born?
Are you going to be watching any birthing videos? I'm not sure if they show you any videos at any of the classes that you are planning on taking, but I was curious if you are going to watch any to get an idea of different birthing scenarios or if you are just going to wait and take it as it comes. I've heard that watching videos has made some soon to be mother's more nervous about the delivery and for others it was a good preparation for them so they know what to expect. I'm so happy your pregnancy has been going so well. You look great!! :D
+Meghann Wright I've decided not to do blackouts at least for now as I want her to be able to nap wherever she is and not be dependent on a super dark room if that's what she's used to.
Are you planning to film videos in advance so you have things to post right after Baby Girl is born? Since you probably, and hopefully!, will be spending a lot of your time concentrating on getting to know your new baby. I hope you have another great week and take care of yourself!
All of my pregnancy fears are related to the health of the child. I'm 30 and we've been thinking about kids. But I'm just not ready to jump into the chance of the emotional pain. Maybe one day :)
Hope the bug didn't get you and you're feeling better! Always good to hear all is going well...you look great and I bet you're having fun with the nesting... At one point you'll want to set up your own delivery plan....and make sure your doctor (and Don of course!) is well aware of it -- so they're prepared to support your wishes. Research pros and cons of all your options. These are things you'll probably go over in your birth classes. Such exciting times ahead for you! Wishing you and Don the best!
so excited for you and Don...no matter what...and it as you know is 10000000000% up to you what you and Don decide to share...we're here if you want to share a little of your birth story or a lot...I think th emore you do share you're be happy to share with baby Ross as she grows up but again up to you of course...wish you all well!!
Here's a possible question for next week, Jen. Do you plan to teach your baby girl sign language (when she's ready for it) to reduce communication frustration until she can use words to get her needs met?
Dear Jen, I seen your snap video of you at the paint store. I was very surprised when you didnt pick out a purple. I was at Benjamin Moore this morning to pick up paint for my daughters room and some of the purples were beautiful, we really loved the lilac!, Are you painting just the one color or are you going to add something else?. When we put together the nursery for our daughter we had a beautiful murral of a castle painted one one wall with unicorns in a field of flowers.
+jannette wood We're just doing the wall color and then we'll add a little artwork. Once the furniture comes in with the big dresser hutch there actually won't be a ton of wall space between that and the windows. I've seen lots of beautiful photos of nursery murals, though, and they're lovely!
I would definitely recommend a doula. They are great if you want support before you go to the hospital beacuse usually you only go once you are in active labor. However, they are really more necessary if you want a natural birth because many nurses don't know a lot about natural pain relief and positions etc plus the doctor is usually only there to deliver not during the labor. They are also amazing support for your husband and can really help them help you. It is probably not too late to look into it and just think of them as a nurse that would be there. As someone else mentioned there are usually siginificantly less interventions with doulas.
Please do some research on the importance of newborn screening. Each state screens for a different list of disorders, and not all states do a routine second screen at a couple weeks after birth. I know you like to be informed and this is an important topic to know about.
Are you still planning to do a video on your prenatal fitness regimen or have you already? I'm 14wks pregnant and struggling to find some good prenatal workouts. Very interested to see what you have been enjoying and what has been working for you.
There are actually two types of doulas; one helps with birth and one helps postpartum through all of the things you never thought about (even if you read every book out there). For some, a doula can reduce stress while allowing you the chance to fully recover. A skilled postpartum doula can even reduce or prevent postpartum depression. I don't see it as too late at all to investigate considering such services. The thought of focusing all attention on baby girl and bonding with her rather than the chores of also running a house sounds heavenly in my opinion.
My sister has a "maid", a girl that comes once a week, the association hires "landscapers" (all houses but they have an association) and they only pay $20 a month individually and she hires a plumber or electrician or carpenter when she needs one, not a handyman which costs a lot less. Who has a handyman on retainer? No body. My sister's husband is a 30 year old pilot and only makes about $140,000 a year. Not "wealthy" by any means. My co worker who makes $16 an hour has a "maid" once a week. This is not "wealthy". Millions of people live like Jen have "maids" once a week and are not wealthy. If you're going to criticize someone for being rich pick someone who is actually rich.
Enjoy your videos! As a die hard Minnesota resident, I want to help with the Mayo book pronunciation it is MAY-O Clinic not MY-YO Clinic. We are fortunate to have one of the very best health care facilities in the world in our state. I am waiting for your out and about fall/winter videos. I love the shopping videos and your out and about videos in the Chicago area. My best to you and the fam!
I am also very private and modest, and I only allowed medical staff and my husband in the delivery room. For some reason I was hyper aware during labor. Every time there was a knock at the door, I looked over and yelled, "Who is it??" There were some medical interns making the rounds, and I think they were trying to feel out which moms would let them attend a live birth. Needless to say I was not one of them! Some women's inhibitions fly out the window during labor, but I was the exact opposite.
you have such a healthy attitude regarding the upcoming birth of your baby girl. And the only people you will need are your husband and the well trained medical staff who will take excellent care of you and baby.
Are you still planning on going to Utah right after Christmas like in past years? You may have answered that already, but pregnancy brain is getting me. Congratulations on your baby girl! Also, do you have a name for her and just keeping it secret or have you not decided yet?
+Danielle Devers No, we won't be traveling to Utah again until the summer most likely. And yes, we're keeping the name private until after she is born.
I would still look into a doula. The actual rates of complications are significantly less with births attended by doulas. You still have time to check it out, just interview one. You'll be surprised how much your shyness goes away when you are in labor, dying from pain, and having somebody there who can help you focus and help relieve your pain. They just provide support that our spouses can't... because our spouses aren't women who have given birth LOL
Such a pretty baby bump. Are you having your little one at a birthing center or a hospital? As for your shyness, I can relate. Have you ever done a video on how you overcame any vlogging or TH-cam fears? It would be very helpful. tfs.
Jen could you maybe wear a unicolored top when you show your bump? I think it would show the difference a bit better :) love your updates and I always look forward to them
+Jane Smith I know they went in 2014. But I thought they were going again this year for some reason. I just watched the packing for Italy video from a couple months ago and now I realize she was talking about packing for last years trip. Thank you :)
How long is the average stay for American ladies in hospital once their babies are born? Do many people opt for traditional births, i.e. delivery suite then hospital room or is there a shift towards birthing suites where you deliver and stay in the same room?
Actually the average stay is 1.6 days. Hospitals have to offer 2 days(48hrs) by law but an overwhelming majority of women don't stay 2 day. And 96 hrs is 4 days.
You and don will be great parents! I hope you guys do another video where r u and don answer questions! Can't wait to meet baby girl through camera. If u decide to show her. Like once she is born and than that's it
I can't see the 22 pounds of weight gain! You look beautiful and not different than 28 weeks ago. Besides the bump! ;-) :-) I'm so happy for you. I wish you all the best for your little family!
Love hearing how you and baby girl are doing. I have a question for you - Do you and Don practice any kind of religion and will you have a baptism for your baby girl? Thanks for taking us along on your pregnancy journey.
+Stacey Shaw I choose to keep our religious views and practices private and will continue to do so after Baby Girl is born. I hope you can understand why :)
I was exactly like you in that I did not want anyone with me except my husband. I think my mother was a little hurt she didn't get invited in, but I just wasn't comfortable with it. However, after-the-fact I did wish that I would have had a professional photographer in the room for me. My girlfriend asked me to come in and be her support system (because she didn't think her husband could handle it -- and he couldn't; I ended up being a support for him as well!) and while I was there I took photos of the birth experience. (Nothing graphic.) She said she has always treasured those photos. I know you are probably even less likely to have a birth photographer than a doula, but I am just wondering if you've thought about it. I wish I could go back and do it over for myself. (By the end of the birth experience there is no such thing as privacy anyway! You simply get to a point where you don't care anymore!)
I am an aunt, and I read The Happiest Baby on the Block before I babysat my three month old nephew for the first time for several days while my brother and his wife took a little vacation. It gave me a lot of confidence and I learned a lot about what babies like. Good luck! I know you and Don will be awesome parents!
You are looking so bright and healthy! I love watching your videos and seeing you happily preparing for baby girl! You are indeed nesting. Our Jennifer (DIL) is due in June. We are so excited. I wish you and Don the very best. I know your baby girl will be in a good, safe home surrounded by plenty of love. I wish every baby could enjoy having a life that is safe for them with loving parents like you and Don and our Jennifer & Jason. Stay well and have fun anticipating baby girl! Hugs. Susan
I'm 25 and a graduate student in California. I've been watching your videos for a while and I never really wanted kids (they stress me out) but watching these videos has made me warm up to the idea. You just seem so happy! My sister had two miscarriages before she was able to become pregnant so I understand how excited you must be to have a healthy baby. Congratulations :)
These weekly updates are still a highlight of my week! Seeing how happy you are and appreciative of all the support and encouragement from everyone just brings a smile to my face. Gymboree was one of my favorite stores for my daughter. Those blankets you received are too adorable :)
You are such a delight to watch! When you said it takes you a long time to be comfortable with people in your real life, it made me realize how lucky we all are who watch you and get to know you this way! Even though (I think) I'm older than you (39), you inspire me so much and I enjoy seeing your life, if only snippets. You're a lovely person and I can't wait to see be a mommy!
FYI- I am actually a postpartum doula, which I had never heard of when I was pregnant...we go into the home after you give birth to assist with any baby care needs, questions, etc. much less "invasive" than labor/delivery doula, you should definitely look into that!
+SuperMommyFour How interesting! TFS :)
I love these updates! Hope you are feeling better!! I am 7 weeks pregnant finally after 3 1/2 years of infertility. I love watching your videos especially the pregnancy ones!
+FibroFightingBarbie Congratulations!
I'm a nurse and during my maternity section of school we all watched the happiest baby on the block video, it has great tips!
Thank you for sharing your update Jen! It's so random, my husband walked in as I was watching this vlog with, and says. "She looks different" I told him, "Yesssss she's pregnant!" he's watched you in passing as I have your vlogs on. and he says to me, "She is glowing! " 😂 It's so rare for him to pick up on these things! I of course teared up and told him all about how very blessed you are to have babygirl! I pray the rest of your pregnancy goes smoothly and your delivery is quick and easy! I know you are going to be a great mother and Don a great dad! thank you so much for letting us be part of this journey! Hugs and kisses to you four! 💖
So happy for you Jen. Nothing warms my heart more than to see a baby come into this world that is loved and cherished by the parents. A really good book I would recommend is Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child. I used these techniques on both of my kids and they are still awesome sleepers! My 4 year old was sleeping for 10 hours a night at 3 mos! Unfortunately my milk stopped because there was no more nightly feeding 😢
The gruffalo is my favorite. I love when my boy picks it at bed time :) the whole collection is brilliant.
I was flabbergasted at how well the crying techniques worked from the Happiest Baby on the Block book. I hope you are as happy with the book as I was :-) What an exciting time!
Hi Jen!
First, I wanted to say congratulations on your pregnancy!! That is so exciting!!
Secondly, I wanted to describe better what a doula is. A doula is a woman who is trained and very knowledgeable about pregnancy, labor, and childbirth. Her job is to emotionally support the mother in labor, keeping mama informed about what's going on and how to help her through each contraction. Whereas most everybody else is focused on baby{not a bad thing!}, she mothers the mother {mama needs lovin' too. Plus, it's shown, mama's who are mothered in labor better bond with and are more mothering to their babies}. Doulas have significantly helped the mother have a good birth experience. Yes, there is pain, but pain has a purpose; it means baby is making her way to this world. You do not have to suffer; suffering is different than pain and will not help you have a good birth experience [ this is yet another way a doula can help you- support you in your choices & / or help you find positions/ techniques to make contractions easier, for lack of a better term}. Remember, this is hubby's first time too; he needs as much help/ guidance/ encouragement of a doula and ideas to better help/ support you for the birth of your baby.
As a side note, actually now is the best time to hire a doula [if so be you want to]. You have the option to interview as many doulas you'd like. You will know the perfect doula for you because you will connect, you will feel safe, and you can trust her that she will support you and your choices whatever they may be.
Another thing that I would like to point out is that labor is when you will be most vulnerable to do whatever your care provider says to do to save you baby [and absolutely there are times when baby or mama is in danger.]. Now is really the best time to educate yourself in labor and set up your birth plan. Do you want an epidural? Do you want pain relief medications? How do you think you want to handle the pain? Would you be disappointed if you had a c-section? Do you want to eat/ drink during labor? Do you want to move around during labor? If you had to stay in bed, would you want to find positions that you can move in while still in bed? Do you want immediate skin-to-skin with baby? Do you want to breastfeed her? Who do you want to hold her first. What are your thoughts on immediate vs. delayed cord clamping? How would you feel if you got something you didn't want? Or didn't get something that you did want? How does your care provider feel about what you want? Will he/ she support you in your choices? These are some questions that I would recommend thinking about to get what you truly want in you birth experience.
Most importantly, realize that you were made to , that you can do this! Childbirth is so so beautiful especially when mama has that good birth experience that she wants [whether at home or at the hospital, medicated or non-medicated, vaginally or by c-section].
Much love,
Lauren
Hello Jen! I know you said you would not be videoing the baby shower (which I totally understand!) But I do hope that you do a baby shower haul, if not that's ok as well. Plus, these videos will be something your child treasures. Praying for you and your health!
Prayers that if you get the bug it is mild. You are going to be an awesome mom, you already are!
Baby 411 is my go to baby shower gift. Great choice! It's SO helpful to have on hand when you have those questions in the middle of the night about something that is going on with your baby.
I loved your view on labor. Enjoy your pregnancy, deal with your labor and then enjoy you baby/ new family. Labor is the shortest amount of time spent in this entire process and I feel people spend entirely too much time focused on it. It's actually a very small price to pay in the grand skeem of things.
Have you and don made any progress on names? I know you probably won't release her name until she's born but I was wondering if you guys have found a naming style you like or even have any you agree on yet?
I know you aren't saying, but have you guys settled on a baby name
We took off the large bi-fold closet doors in our daughter's room and replaced them with curtains. Love this!
Pregnancy land! Love it! So happy for you and Don. =)
Hi Jen! Congratulations to you and Don on your baby girl!!! I am so happy for the 2 of you. I'm going through fertility issues myself due to PCOS and i understand the long road that you both had to walk down to finally have this blessing. I'm not sure if you have answered this already in previous videos but will you be getting an epidural? or will you try to do everything as natural as possible?
baby girl will be the luckiest baby to have you 2 as her parents you are the most deserveing couple love and best wishes to all 4 of you from the UK
Enjoyed the video. That lamb is so very sweet. I pray you are feeling better soon.
Hard to believe I was born at 28weeks 25 years ago! I was really blessed and I am a happy and healthy young woman..Jen you look very happy :-)
I look forward to your updates every week! Winnie is the cutest! I can't wait to see what Winnie will think of baby girl.
I soooo enjoy these weekly pregnancy updates and I'm very excited for you and Don. You're going to be such wonderful, loving, parents. "Baby Girl" is a lucky little girl :-) I hope you don't get "the bug". Drink your tea and rest. Wow, 28 weeks....how time flies.
Jenn, love all your videos. Wondering if you have thought about how your schedule might change after baby is born? Will you post less frequently?
That question was addressed in the beginning of this video.
Will you do a children's book collection video? Also, do you plan on doing Vlogidays? We'd love it! Or could you Vlog everyday (with a camera) for at least a whole week in December, if you don't want to do the whole month? That's my question. Thanks!
Looking great Jen! Just a suggestion for the closet doors - when you take out the doors put in a tension rod, and hang curtains instead of doors. Hope you're well!
Would you ever consider a video on mental health? I feel like you would have wonderful insight. Love your videos! You're doing so well with your pregnancy
The time is flying.Won't be long.Our grand baby is due March 19th.:)
Your hair is really growing fast. Love these updates :)
Jen, so glad you are true to yourself regarding privacy etc. You are good inspiration to people to stay true to who they are yet open to listening to options. ;-)
Hi Jen! I recently started watching your channel and I love your vids! I also just would like to stay that until your snap vlogs, I thought your dog in the background of the video was a pillow. No joke!
+N. R. I get asked all the time in person if she is real....even when she's walking alongside me!
Please talk more about your little lady's movements, kicks etc. I'd love to hear more of how u feel her, rolling, jabs, or how are her movements. Is don able to feel her yet? Does she have patterns to her movement? Do u feel her more at night erc thanks! Love your program
+Corina Landaverde Will do :)
Are you planning on doing a final "pregnancy" update for the week after she is born? I know you will be very busy as a new mama but I'm sure I'm not the only one who would love to hear you talk about how everything went, the story of when you went into labor, how you have been feeling since giving birth, etc. It would be sweet to see it all come full circle in a final update. Get well soon, Jen!
+darakristi I don't know if I'll be able to do a final pregnancy update, but I do hope to share my labor & delivery story after baby arrives
I can't wait to see the nursery after it's painted!!
Do you have any thoughts or ideas on when or if you're going to have family portraits taken at some point after the baby comes?
Are you going to try to stay in the hospital for the first few days after the baby is born?
My kids love Gymboree blankets as well there amazing
That little golf outfit ... omg, beyond adorable!
Are you going to be watching any birthing videos? I'm not sure if they show you any videos at any of the classes that you are planning on taking, but I was curious if you are going to watch any to get an idea of different birthing scenarios or if you are just going to wait and take it as it comes. I've heard that watching videos has made some soon to be mother's more nervous about the delivery and for others it was a good preparation for them so they know what to expect. I'm so happy your pregnancy has been going so well. You look great!! :D
+healthyeatingalways I think they'll show us one or two in our upcoming classes.
having blackout curtains is really beneficial during nap time
+Meghann Wright I've decided not to do blackouts at least for now as I want her to be able to nap wherever she is and not be dependent on a super dark room if that's what she's used to.
Are you planning to film videos in advance so you have things to post right after Baby Girl is born? Since you probably, and hopefully!, will be spending a lot of your time concentrating on getting to know your new baby.
I hope you have another great week and take care of yourself!
Your little girl will be healthy and beautiful !!
+Cici Rodrgz Thank you!
All of my pregnancy fears are related to the health of the child. I'm 30 and we've been thinking about kids. But I'm just not ready to jump into the chance of the emotional pain. Maybe one day :)
Hope the bug didn't get you and you're feeling better! Always good to hear all is going well...you look great and I bet you're having fun with the nesting... At one point you'll want to set up your own delivery plan....and make sure your doctor (and Don of course!) is well aware of it -- so they're prepared to support your wishes. Research pros and cons of all your options. These are things you'll probably go over in your birth classes. Such exciting times ahead for you! Wishing you and Don the best!
so excited for you and Don...no matter what...and it as you know is 10000000000% up to you what you and Don decide to share...we're here if you want to share a little of your birth story or a lot...I think th emore you do share you're be happy to share with baby Ross as she grows up but again up to you of course...wish you all well!!
Here's a possible question for next week, Jen. Do you plan to teach your baby girl sign language (when she's ready for it) to reduce communication frustration until she can use words to get her needs met?
are you guys going to use cloth diapers, or disposable and if disposable would you do the organic ones or normal ones like pampers.
Dear Jen, I seen your snap video of you at the paint store. I was very surprised when you didnt pick out a purple. I was at Benjamin Moore this morning to pick up paint for my daughters room and some of the purples were beautiful, we really loved the lilac!, Are you painting just the one color or are you going to add something else?. When we put together the nursery for our daughter we had a beautiful murral of a castle painted one one wall with unicorns in a field of flowers.
+jannette wood We're just doing the wall color and then we'll add a little artwork. Once the furniture comes in with the big dresser hutch there actually won't be a ton of wall space between that and the windows. I've seen lots of beautiful photos of nursery murals, though, and they're lovely!
I'm so excited for your baby to be here :) I am a babyholic! Lol!
You look great! Thank you for sharing your updates 💞
Can't wait for the reveal of the nursery! :)
Jenn, will you be having a 3D ultrasound for baby?
I would definitely recommend a doula. They are great if you want support before you go to the hospital beacuse usually you only go once you are in active labor. However, they are really more necessary if you want a natural birth because many nurses don't know a lot about natural pain relief and positions etc plus the doctor is usually only there to deliver not during the labor. They are also amazing support for your husband and can really help them help you. It is probably not too late to look into it and just think of them as a nurse that would be there. As someone else mentioned there are usually siginificantly less interventions with doulas.
Wow Jenny your skin looks amazing. Come to San Diego the weather is so great you'll fight that cold easily.
I think Halppy should be a new medical word haha (:
+Ashlee K I agree ;)
Please do some research on the importance of newborn screening. Each state screens for a different list of disorders, and not all states do a routine second screen at a couple weeks after birth. I know you like to be informed and this is an important topic to know about.
Are you still planning to do a video on your prenatal fitness regimen or have you already? I'm 14wks pregnant and struggling to find some good prenatal workouts. Very interested to see what you have been enjoying and what has been working for you.
+Nicole Pauly Yes, for sure :)
I loved baby 4-1-1 for quick reference with both my babies :)
How do you plan to take care of yourself after birth? Any self care ideas? What are your thoughts on postpartum depression?
There are actually two types of doulas; one helps with birth and one helps postpartum through all of the things you never thought about (even if you read every book out there). For some, a doula can reduce stress while allowing you the chance to fully recover. A skilled postpartum doula can even reduce or prevent postpartum depression. I don't see it as too late at all to investigate considering such services. The thought of focusing all attention on baby girl and bonding with her rather than the chores of also running a house sounds heavenly in my opinion.
+Jane Smith I have a maid, landscapers, and a handyman and I still have chores. :)
My sister has a "maid", a girl that comes once a week, the association hires "landscapers" (all houses but they have an association) and they only pay $20 a month individually and she hires a plumber or electrician or carpenter when she needs one, not a handyman which costs a lot less. Who has a handyman on retainer? No body. My sister's husband is a 30 year old pilot and only makes about $140,000 a year. Not "wealthy" by any means. My co worker who makes $16 an hour has a "maid" once a week. This is not "wealthy". Millions of people live like Jen have "maids" once a week and are not wealthy. If you're going to criticize someone for being rich pick someone who is actually rich.
Enjoy your videos! As a die hard Minnesota resident, I want to help with the Mayo book pronunciation it is MAY-O Clinic not MY-YO Clinic. We are fortunate to have one of the very best health care facilities in the world in our state. I am waiting for your out and about fall/winter videos. I love the shopping videos and your out and about videos in the Chicago area. My best to you and the fam!
So very happy for you!
I am also very private and modest, and I only allowed medical staff and my husband in the delivery room. For some reason I was hyper aware during labor. Every time there was a knock at the door, I looked over and yelled, "Who is it??" There were some medical interns making the rounds, and I think they were trying to feel out which moms would let them attend a live birth. Needless to say I was not one of them! Some women's inhibitions fly out the window during labor, but I was the exact opposite.
Me too.
you have such a healthy attitude regarding the upcoming birth of your baby girl. And the only people you will need are your husband and the well trained medical staff who will take excellent care of you and baby.
You look amazing!
Are you still doing acupuncture?
+Shay EmeraldGypsyHeart Yep! I love it :)
AWESOME!!! Is there a routine designed for pregnancy or is it geared to the individual?
Can't believe how time is flying :)
Are you still planning on going to Utah right after Christmas like in past years? You may have answered that already, but pregnancy brain is getting me. Congratulations on your baby girl! Also, do you have a name for her and just keeping it secret or have you not decided yet?
+Danielle Devers No, we won't be traveling to Utah again until the summer most likely. And yes, we're keeping the name private until after she is born.
I would still look into a doula. The actual rates of complications are significantly less with births attended by doulas. You still have time to check it out, just interview one. You'll be surprised how much your shyness goes away when you are in labor, dying from pain, and having somebody there who can help you focus and help relieve your pain. They just provide support that our spouses can't... because our spouses aren't women who have given birth LOL
jen you are so nice and kind GOD BLESS YOU
Such a pretty baby bump. Are you having your little one at a birthing center or a hospital? As for your shyness, I can relate. Have you ever done a video on how you overcame any vlogging or TH-cam fears? It would be very helpful. tfs.
+Kiki Doll I'm planning on going to a hospital
Jen could you maybe wear a unicolored top when you show your bump? I think it would show the difference a bit better :) love your updates and I always look forward to them
Bump-a-licious, might steal that word in the future 😆☺️
Bump-a-licious, already stolen. Was used on the Ellen Show and two TH-cam pregnancy channels. I love it too.
Did I miss your Italy trip? Or did y'all decide not to go because of your pregnancy?
+Jane Smith I know they went in 2014. But I thought they were going again this year for some reason. I just watched the packing for Italy video from a couple months ago and now I realize she was talking about packing for last years trip. Thank you :)
did the baby furniture get delivered in the Utah home?
How long is the average stay for American ladies in hospital once their babies are born? Do many people opt for traditional births, i.e. delivery suite then hospital room or is there a shift towards birthing suites where you deliver and stay in the same room?
1 day for normal births, 4 days for C sections.
+apfelprincess45 I believe it's actually somewhere between 48 and 96 hours post delivery at my hospital
Actually the average stay is 1.6 days. Hospitals have to offer 2 days(48hrs) by law but an overwhelming majority of women don't stay 2 day. And 96 hrs is 4 days.
Have you bought the bassinet that you will be using in your bedroom?
+twiggylynn1978 We registered for it :)
you really remind me of Sue from The Middle :) kind and always happy
You and don will be great parents! I hope you guys do another video where r u and don answer questions! Can't wait to meet baby girl through camera. If u decide to show her. Like once she is born and than that's it
+Lizzy Tenison We def will but probably not until closer to our due date
I can't see the 22 pounds of weight gain! You look beautiful and not different than 28 weeks ago. Besides the bump! ;-) :-) I'm so happy for you. I wish you all the best for your little family!
+Sari LovesXmas Aww thanks...but I'm definitely plumper esp in the middle ;)
Could you share more on how much baby girl is moving. How much are you able to feel at this stage? Can you see her moving yet?
+Josette Sculley thanks
JENNIFER...it's May-o Clinic (with a long a). Hahaha!!!
Jen, great video. Just wanted to point out that the Mayo Clinic is pronounced like the Mayo you put on sandwiches. 😉
+Amber H. Thanks! I can never remember ;)
Will you post a baby shower gift haul? :)
..question: How is Don and you planning to fund your child's education? Need more of Don's POV on things... Please!
Hey Jen - Big Savings on Target Baby Gear- lots of gift cards and $$ off
Love hearing how you and baby girl are doing. I have a question for you - Do you and Don practice any kind of religion and will you have a baptism for your baby girl? Thanks for taking us along on your pregnancy journey.
+Stacey Shaw I choose to keep our religious views and practices private and will continue to do so after Baby Girl is born. I hope you can understand why :)
I was exactly like you in that I did not want anyone with me except my husband. I think my mother was a little hurt she didn't get invited in, but I just wasn't comfortable with it. However, after-the-fact I did wish that I would have had a professional photographer in the room for me. My girlfriend asked me to come in and be her support system (because she didn't think her husband could handle it -- and he couldn't; I ended up being a support for him as well!) and while I was there I took photos of the birth experience. (Nothing graphic.) She said she has always treasured those photos. I know you are probably even less likely to have a birth photographer than a doula, but I am just wondering if you've thought about it. I wish I could go back and do it over for myself. (By the end of the birth experience there is no such thing as privacy anyway! You simply get to a point where you don't care anymore!)
Steiff is pronounced Sty-ff (emphasis on the i not the e)
Also they are considered heirloom toys. Never remove the button tag from its ear. A very lovely gift.
I have a question for next week: Would you like to share your birthday with baby girl?
+Plan With Anita I wouldn't mind, but that won't happen as my doctor won't let me go past 42 weeks which falls before my birthday.
How often are you feeling baby girl move and kick now?
You got that Mommy Glow 🎠
jen when baby girl is born are you going to have an introduction video so we can all meet her
+Harlie Quinn Yes
what kind of dog is that?
Hang curtains as the closet doors. That's what I'm doing in my baby boy nursery
Can you do more Target hauls?
+Cassy Militaru For sure :)
Are u going to vlog the labor
Are you going to announce the name of your daughter or are you keeping that under wraps?