Hola Chicas,
I was up at 3am this morning with Braxton Hicks contractions… they’re becoming stronger and a bit more frequent. So so scary. To take my mind off of them, I ate a cup of yogurt and watched Sunday’s episode of Boondocks (OMG… ‘cross dressing for Christ’… epic episode). This was pretty effective for a while, but I’ve been quite anxious lately and my mind wanders a lot.
I have a due date of August 20th, but I know she’s not gonna hang out until then. I’ll be considered full term on July 30th… and I feel deep down that sister girl will be making her big debut shortly thereafter (seriously, it feels like she’s gonna fall out my butt). So all of this was racing through my mind this morning at 3am… I’m NOT ready… she IS ready, and ain’t waiting on me…the nursery is still currently a junky office… I haven’t read all of my ‘parenting books’ yet, and the biggest anxiety provoking thought of all, ‘will I even be a good mom?!’ Before July gets here, I need to sit my ass ‘on the couch’ and let y’all therapize me :0) No joke. I plan to do a post very soon on my thoughts on impending motherhood.
This was supposed to be a short post. All of the above was to explain why I decided to take a trip to Tarjay today. We’re not ready. Period. And I need to rectify that. I’ve got a living room full of baby stuff from you gals (thank you!), fam, and friends, and we haven’t done our part yet. My sweet granny sent me money to buy a bassinet for baby back in April, and I had yet to do so. I went today and bought the super cute sleigh style bassinet to go in my room, plastic tubs to pack up the office, and this super cute headband. I know we’re always on the hunt for cute cheap accessories… this is an easy one to snag 🙂
It was not in the hair department. There’s a section when you first walk in to most Targets… it’s near the Juniors department, and has like a ‘celeb’ theme. There’s always colorful scarves, big handbags, and jewelry. Well, they had three headbands on display– a brown one, a black one, and a color that is escaping me right now. They’re going for $6.99 and are adorable! I was rocking a bun today and after the lady rang me up, she asked if I wanted to put the band in a separate bag. I told her, ‘nope, I’ll wear it, lol’. And I did… it totally jazzed up my bun 🙂
I’ll probably go back tomorrow and get the other colors. I like that it doesn’t give me a headache (most headbands do), and has what looks like a goody ouchless headband underneath the material to keep it from sliding off. Flawless design… couldn’t have made it better myself 😉 Oh, and the flower is detachable!
Later Gators,
Nik
p.s. Packing up the office today… any takers to come and put the crib, changing table, bassinet, bouncer, stroller, and jumperaoo together? Oh, and why in the hell does one little person need so much (colorful) stuff?! Good grief!
i wonder if I could still find that headband.. i've been looking but… cant find any 🙁
Hey, I am writing to get advice on bringing my natural curls back. I am 20 and I have never had a perm a day in my life. My hair is naturally curly but due to all of the years of flat ironing it, the texture has changed and its not as curly as it once was. I would like my curls to be more tamed and to last for a while (for about a week). Is there anything I can do to put on it to bring my curls back?
Congratulations on your journey to motherhood! As a Professional Auntie, I'm sure all the other professional aunties and mothers in your life can tell you that you will have your challenges but nothing can compare to the love and joy you'll feel for your child. 🙂 Also I finally found the Hollywood Intuition headbands at my local Target (Farmington Hills) in black and brown. It also came in white but there weren't anymore. They are extremely cute. Again congratulations from Alicia, Professional Auntie to Dominique, Janea, Crysilyn and Cydney!
I am still searching for this too cute headband. I am visited several targets in my area to no avail. Anyone find it in the Houston area?
Unique style for a headband. Pretty fashionable and elegant. Nicely done.
Nikki, you had me out again on Thursday night looking for these headbands. I've been searching for different color flowers to adorn my hair! So, this was a two-in-one opportunity that I could not pass up!! A headband and a flower that can be worn alone. I'm here to tell you, perseverance pays off!! After about 30 minutes of circling and searching the accessories area, pulling up CN.com on my Blackberry to provide a visual reference for three different Target sales staffers, perusing the Health and Hair section while remaining cognizant of the fact that you said these could not be found there, and roaming the "special" hair products aisle in the make-up section to no avail, I took one last stroll through the scarves and purse section. Lo and behold, through the bars I spot what appears to be headbands, walk to the other side and confirm my suspicions. One white and one brown headband with detachable flower packaged by "Hollywood Intuition!!!" Ah ha!!! The "celeb" section of which the Target staffers seemed unaware. I snagged them both. No other colors, unfortunately. The elastic goody band was too tight/small for me to use, but there is sufficient elastic within the wider headband to properly control and smooth my front. Very cute.
And, as to your concerns, I concur with what many have said above. You will be better than fine, you will be GREAT!!
Best wishes,
Shelli
I'm late but so what LOL… Impending mommy-hood is scary whether it's your first or fifth kid. I completely understand how you feel but trust, the mommy gene has already kicked in. Your worrying is part of what makes you a good mommy. Miss lady is lucky to be coming into the world with a mommy like you. ust remember, it's a learning process for both you and baby and you will both love every minute of it.
Fall out ya butt….tooo funny. You'll be absolutely fine Nikki. Keep with that humour and don't panic!
It's me..pinkydamone..I just had a daughter 4 months ago, so I understand EVERYTHING that you're going through. lol..I was on bedrest, so I was waaay more miserable. And yes..it does feel like the baby is gonna fall out, and yes that's normal! But I can not stress this enough…ENJOY THESE last few days….BECAUSE THE END IS NEAR! It will be the most amazing time, but you will be overwhelmed and tired in the beginning. Make sure you just relax and enjoy your pregnancy!
i fell in love w/the head band, went out and got the black one and i finally brought giovanni products, will be trying it on my hair this weekend. i love your blog. keep up the good work, it's an inspirational to all of the naturals and transitioners out there
Nikki, God gave you all that you need. So don't worry about "the stuff", because there is always stuff and it seems to just grow, especially with little girls, I know I have 2 little women that have more clothes and accessories than me. All that beautiful gift you are about to receive really needs is you and your hubby's undivided love and attention. Relax and enjoy every moment, every pain and every tear…..there is NOTHING in this world like be a mom for the first time.
awww…don't worry..you're gonna be a great mommy! all of the anxiety will go away once you see your little princess!
sounds like someone is in the nesting phase!! and those braxton hicks contractions are preparing you for actual labor contractions. i suggest reading up on the stages of labor to prepare yourself for what to expect and also to make your labor and delivery as stress free as possible for yourself, your husband and you little lady.
anyhoo, super cute headband. did they have any other colors???
Nikki…I love this headband!!! You look so cute!!! 🙂 Braxton Hicks prepare your body for labor and can often be mistaken as such, however there are significant differences. http://pregnancy.about.com/cs/laborbasics/a/bhctx.htm This is a good link.
If your actual due date is 8/20/10, you will not be full term until 2 weeks before that date. (38 wks) The lungs, as you probably know are the last organs to fully develop and you need to definitely carry the baby as close to your due date as safely possible. You also should increase you water intake during this summer as dehydration can cause you to go into labor. 8 to 10 8oz glasses are appropriate. Your visits to your OB will become weekly within your last 4 wks of pregnancy. During this time you will be checked for dilatation. (At least during one of these visits). Be cognizant of danger signs and keep your OB's after hours number at hand.
You and your husband will be excellent parents!!! God bless you and your family during this blessed event!!!
Hey, I saw that headband when I was in Target a couple of days ago. So much for my imagination cause I never pictured it looking so FAB…must be your hair! LOL
Don't worry about the Mommy thing….you're causing yourself way too much stress and anxiety needlessly. There's no way you could rationalize the love you will feel for that child the first moment you see her. The Mommy thing will just take over from there. There's nothing you have to "do" and there's nothing you really have to "learn." A lot of times we read and read to help with the anxiety and uncertainty, but when the baby actually comes we go into autopilot…anything we can't work out, family and friends rush over to fill in the blanks. When little Miss Homegirl gets an attitude and you're trying to figure her out, book learning will be out the window honey!!!! Use what precious little energy you have and try to get things in the house in order just so YOU have some peace of mind. As long as little Miss has Mommy and Daddy loving on her and taking care of her, she would care less if she napped in the junky office, snug as a bug in a rug in a file cabinet drawer. JK! (It's true though) LOLOL Take it easy on yourself girl and get some rest!!!
Nikki,
Thanks for sharing about this stylish headband! It goes perfectly with a big bun.
By the way, how did you get your edges to cooperate and stay so smooth?
Cute headband Nik! im so gonna get it and no worries you are going to be a great mommy! Praying for you and your fam and for a safe delivery! :o)
I went to Target on my lunch break today and found 1 headband they were exactly where Nikki said they would be 🙂 Thanks Nikki, now I must stalk every Target in town to find the other colors lol 🙂
Luv, Luv, Luv this post. I guess Tarjay will be out of headbands by the time I get there.
As everyone has stated, you will be fine…but there is one thing that you should be aware of, and nobody told me with my first child…even though you feel like you can't take anymore and your baby wants to jump out TODAY…she just may decide to hang out in there until the due date. I got my hopes up because the braxton hicks were kicking my butt and my lil guy came out a week past his due date! End the end, I wouldn't have changed a thing.
I agree with the ladies above. Your post reminds me of when I was pregnant. And I had just moved so there was boxes everywhere and I couldn't lift a thing. I was bored crazy and told my belly I'm ready you can come now. LOL Rule 1. I learned was she had her own agenda whether I was ready or not. When I finally put her room together on my due date with my lil brother I figured oh well I guess she'll come next week. As soon as I went to lay down to rest from a hard days work of putting together her room my water broke! I then realized I didn't get enough sleep I am not ready for a newborn she can't come right now. But after she was born everything came naturally for me, but for hubby it took him 2 weeks before he changed her diaper cause he said he didn't want to mess up her lady parts…lol I realized half the stuff we had, we never used or she grew out of it quickly or didn't like it. So for baby 2 I know to Keep it Simple. Just love that baby, have plently of diapers, and be surprised by all the things you will be doing on 3 hrs of sleep. The only thing you need in tact is the carseat so you'll be ready to bring her home safely.
lol@ The baby about to "fall out your butt".. funniest thing I've read today! You'll do just fine Nikki… I'm not a mom, but I think the anxiety is normal for most new mothers. You'll do great! Plus your a therapist.. who better to guilt trip that baby. That will all come in handy in the future. 😉
The headband is so cute. I like it a lot. As for the baby, don't worry. Everything will be alright. I have 3 kids. My youngest is 10 months old. She came early and was over 8 pounds, so most of the clothes and shoes we bought were too little. LOL! I was not ready to deliver a big baby! It was a learning experience with each child but enjoyable. If she comes early, no biggee. If my last one had come on the due date, she would have been over 9 pounds! Hey Nikki, your baby is just ready and excited to meet you and her dad! God bless you and your family!
I understand I am just tired this trimester which is number 3 I haven't bought any baby furniture or decor for her room. The room is just sitting there empty I need help! It would be nice to have a baby shower this time around but, I can't depend on that. The baby won't need all of that stuff most of it is for us anyway. Good luck and God Bless.
Cute headband.
And in reference to baby girl, she won't need all that stuff. That stuff tends to be for us and to make us feel better. It'll be funny to see you post in a year about the stuff you never used. And even though the parenting books help some, ultimately, your maternal instinct will kick in. You'll do a lot of things differently and you'll find that you're the perfect mother for your little angel. Just get ready to enjoy the ride (a wonderful one it is) that is motherhood and enjoy every precious millisecond of it!
OOooooooo so happy i saw this I'm headed to target ASAP after work for my headbands!! Headbands have been a lifesaver for me during my natural hair journey
First Off I Gotta Get that Headband!!
I Would Love To Come Help You But I'm Stuck In St.Croix For The Moment :~(
Don't Worry About Being A Good Mother Because You're Going To Be Great, Because You Are A Great Person.
All You Need To Be Ready For Is All That Extra Crazy Love You're Going To Feel The Moment You See And Hold Her :~D
Just Relax And Breathe Deeply :~D
No one is ever ready. Oh, and if no one has told you, the baby figures you out first. In other words, she will school you. Don't worry. If folks do this over and over again — I did it twice! — it can't be all that bad.
I agree with all of the posters above. She just needs you, clean diapers, and something good to eat. She won't use most of that other stuff for weeks or even months. Well, she will need that bassinet, but the other stuff can stay in boxes. And where is Mr. Curly Nikki? Put him to work!
One last piece of advice. There's no need for a high chair. They now have these little plastic seats that fasten to any regular chair and can be pulled to the table. They cost less money and take up far less space.
Best wishes for a quick and painless delivery.
Hey Nikki…. You are too cute, this is your nesting time, and you need to really rest, just sit down, put your feet up and rest. The fact that you are soooo worried about being a good Mommy, is complete indication that you are GOING TO BE A PHENEMONAL MOTHER. All of the books and advice in the world will put your mind at ease for now, but when it all comes down to it, your husband, your baby and you will figure it all out together.
By the way I am Mommy to three boys, my oldest will be 10 my second son is 3 and my baby is 7 months(today) and I am still learning new ways to do things. It will all work out, and she will be completely in love with you.
All of the baby stuff, is nice but she probably won't even use half of the stuff she has. Diapers, love, food, and more diapers, are the necessities . You will be fine… keeping yourself looking fab and enjoying your pregnancy will make this last couple of weeks breeze by…
Cute Headband, it looks great with your bun… Have a great day!
Thanks ladies for the support and positive comments. I keep hearing that this magical mommy drive and intuition will kick in… I can't wait to experience it. It sounds pretty powerful 🙂
Until then, I'll just keep myself busy and try to think positive.
The brand name of the headband is Hollywood Intuition. I couldn't find it online, but like I said, it's in stores near the Juniors department, next to all of the colorful 'hollywood' themed stuff… like sun glasses, jewelry, hats, bags, and scarves. I'm going back today after my last appointment. I want the other two!
Hey Nik,
I'd like to echo what everyone has been saying. Baby needs love, mommy, food and diapers. No worries. All of the "baby gear" is really for the adults. Also, as her arrival gets closer (not necessarily due date) something in you will rev up and you'll tie up all of your lose ends. Don't worry.. You'll be ready. :-)Now, lets see if I have this attitude when my first one comes in January. LOL
BTW: Cute headband! I might have to swipe it.
1) Being a mom is scary…at first
2) As soon as you see your baby girl for the first time, you will instantly be in love
3) You will not know what you are doing for most of the time, but your instincts will kick in and after a couple of weeks it will be 2nd nature to you
4) the whole 2nd nature thing might take longer for your husband, or it might not. i wish someone had told me that men can be clueless to the point of deer-in-headlights with regards to baby…be prepared to learn a lot more about your mate…for better or worse (hopefully better)
5) Nursing (if you plan to do it) can be very difficult (some women and their babies have absolutely no trouble at all. Others have a bit of a challenge, either the mother or the baby…)
6) There are some things about motherhood that are downright wrong, but most are great
7) Your body will get back to normal, don't even stress about that…it's your mind that might take a bit longer…sometimes motherhood makes you forgetful, or in my case down right stupid…lol
8) PRAY, PRAY, PRAY
email if you want!
I'm going to get that headband ASAP!
😀
thanks Nikki!
You'll be a wonderful mom, don't worry..just pray for guidance =)
That headband is gorgeous; it looks so elegant with your bun.
Hi Nikki – everything will be fine. Try not to stress over it. Take it easy for the next month.
Love the headband … Will be going to Target purchase.
What you're feeling is normal and for me, at least, it never completely went away. My son is five and I still worry that I'm not doing enough of this or enough of that. One of the best lessons I learned is NOT to compare myself to other mothers or get overly concerned with what people think as long as I know I'm doing my best. Everyone is different and has her own way of doing some things or not doing things. My son is healthy, smart and happy so I figure I must be doing something right. It helps the stressing when I focus on that. For me, the stressing started with breast-feeding. I could never get the of hang of it and had to stop after a few weeks. Just couldn't take the pain/discomfort and couldn't produce enough milk most the time when I was doing it. This tore me up inside that I was a "bottle feeder." Might as well have been called a "bottom feeder" for taking this route. (The "good" moms around me were all breastfeeding!) Anyway, I eventually got over it and my son is fine. So all of this is to say do you. Don't compare. As long as your kid is healthy and happy, you're doing fine. And get ready for the know-it-all or Nazi Moms who try to make you feel inferior when you don't do things their way. Don't let them get to you if you happen to run into that type.And you will run into that type–in the parks, the playgrounds, playgroups, Gymboree, daycare etc. I've met some amazing supportive moms and I've met some mean, judgmental and overly competitive ones. Surround yourself with the later. And oh, a lighter note, the headband is so cute!
omg. . . I saw that boondocks episode. Riley was like "Granddads gonna need to have 'no homo' tattooed on his forehead after this." lmao that ep. was too crazy.
Anyways well at least you know you have a lot of support and positivity surrounding you, I wish you and your baby/family the best. You deserve it. =]
You are too funny! This post is classic. you'll be fine when the time comes, great even. No book in the world will help! Love the headband, thanks for the heads up!!
Gorgeous hair Nikki. That headband is dope and I'll definitely be going to pick up the black one. You'll be a great mommmy, don't worry!
I have no motherly tips for you since I'm not one yet. I did want to say that if I lived anywhere near you I would totally come and help you put stuff together! also, I believe the fact that you even have those questions means that you'll do a great job at being a mom, I have a feeling that once the little girl comes things will fall into place. congratulations again!!
http://pinkpopmash.blogspot.com.
Nikki,
After they get here the instructions download as you need to be updated. The bond you share with your lil princess will make motherhood an intuitive journey. BTW the parenting books only apply in an ideal situation not when its 2 am you are crying with the lil person. Many blessings!!!
Make sure you are drinking your water!! 90% of the time braxton hicks are due to boderline dehydration.. with it being so hot, try to stay hydrated, and if/when they start, try sipping on a glass of water. most of the time they will subside…
The fact that you're concerned about being a good mommy answers your question: YOU WILL BE A GREAT MOMMY!
It's easier said than done, but try not to worry about your little princess coming before everything's ready. Trust me…she won't notice it a bit! It will all fall into place just like afrohippie stated. And, if something isn't done when she makes her grand entrance, don't sweat it…Just enjoy the precious gift you've been bestowed with your hubby, family & friends.
Love the headband…Here I come Tarjay 🙂
You'll be an excellent mother! And everything will come together and work out just like it always does.
I'm a little disappointed. I made an impromptu trip to Tarjay (just walked back in the house) but I came home empty handed…well at least sans cute headband(s). I didn't even see where they would have been. Would you be able to give me the product number so I can call my local stores? PLEASE??!! Yes I am begging. =)
Girl you are going to be a good mother, don't worry. I know it's first time jitters but honestly it's going to be like second nature to you once she gets here. My husband and I are currently expecting baby number three so I can say I have been through your stress but you got it. Oh yeah and that's a cute headband going to go get one.
OH you will do a great job..don't worry MOTHERHOOD COMES NATURALLY… 🙂
i laughed so hard when i read this……lawd!
I'm sure you'll be great! good luck!
The whole being a good Mom thing, it just comes naturally. Nothing can prepare you for being a Mommy, it happens on its own. Once you look at this perfect, tiny person, all the instincts kick in and take over.
PS: The headband is adorable!
Super cute head band I will be making a trip for those tomorrow 🙂
As far as the baby you will be just fine it all comes rushing to you…you wanna talk about not being ready my daughter came 3 month early(1lb 10oz) so ready wasn't even a thought. Babies need mommy diapers and food all that other stuff is for the grown folk lol calm down take it easy and do what you can….:) good luck to you and stop shopping so i'll stop lol
Have you purchased a Maya Wrap yet? They are awesome for nursing, handling things around the house or running errands w/ baby. Also, I know I'm not huge on the boards, but I used to work as a breast feeding counselor. I would be happy to answer any questions you have.
Nikki,
I wasn't ready and you know my little bit is fine. We had purchased 3 sets of onesies- that's it!
My aunt got the stroller and car seat, my parents got the bassinet and my co-workers hooked us up. Other than picking up a breast pump and some diapers the day we got home we had very little "in order".
Let me know if you have any questions and I'll put you on the couch.
Nikki you are a mess! She won't use HALF of the things you are putting together. Trust me LESS is best when it come to them lil "boogers". LOL!! If she has a place to sleep, diapers, and a place to put her clothes you are all set! No stress!
And don't worry about being a good mommy. That will come to you once you hold her in your arms. (You do know how to hold her right?? LOL)
the headband is super cute!!!
Don't worry about "being ready." Everything will fall into place…I promise!
I'll be in Chapel Hill in a couple week to pick up my little one so I'll come over and help you put everything together. LOL