The Red Tent

[Nyree]

It's baaaaack!!!

Inspired by a book of the same name, it's a place to share your moon time with other women.

A blurb about the book:

this novel reveals the traditions and turmoils of ancient womanhood - the world of the red tent.

So when Aunt Flow knocks on the door, come & hang out in the tent :)

[Hailstorm]

Oh thank the goddess this is back!! I'm in here all on my lonseome it seems...oh well more tim tams for me then bwahahaha, had a good workout this monring so no cramps but unfortunately got the usual AF headache been trynna up the water and just popped some nurofen so it doesn't get to bad...hanging on the puter doesn't help either....

[mummabare]

nah Im here....no timtams, no coke..its all rather tragic right now :P

[Merlion]

well i'm still trying to figure if im supposed to be here or not. best i can figure AF maybe a week overdue. but i need my last most but i got lost. :(

[Beckstar]

I am here, as of last night. Still getting my natural rhythm back after being on the OCP for a couple of years. I think it was a new moon recently, so hopefully I am ovualting with the full moon? That would be easy to keep track of.
Do any of you chart your cycles? We have learned in detail how to do it (at uni) so we can reccommend it to our patients. I think I might start tracking this month.
:Becky lays back on the cushions and enjoys the serenity of the tent:
(Unfortunately I have a busy day, classes then clinic....)

[Hailstorm]

I cannot belive how heavy my flow is this month.... wondering if it has anything to do with the amount of excermacising I'm doing? any one know anything about flwo increase during excercise?

[Donna]

I'm in as of yesterday morning. T13 is in with me, her cycle is still making it's way to regular... poor darlin is suffering worse than me atm.

I have my new pretty present pads on the line, I can't wait to use them properly tomorrow instead of giving the 'comfort' test first!

T13 has started using her cloth at home too :) I think she is going to go full time at home with them YAY!

[Nyree]

wondering if it has anything to do with the amount of excermacising I'm doing?

See - exermacising is baaaaaad for you :2lol

I'm day 26, but I think this is going to be another 6 week cycle :(

[ali_celt]

According to how goddamn HUNGRY I have been over the last few days, and how achey sore my boobs are, I'll be with you in about a day and a half. Or something.

Puts me right on the stupid 3week cycle I've been stuck in for ages, too. Grrrrr over it.

[jodiemiller]

I'm waaay overdue this month (and obviously not preggers). Had my first twinge of achiness this morning so Flo must be on her way.

[emd]

I probably should use this to track my cycle. So I can be careful not to get pregnant. Bah, who am I kidding, I'd love an accident! Even though it would be terribly inconvenient and stressful.

I've been in the tent for a few days but hope to be outta here soon.

[Donna]

Can I totally recommend this site.
I've used it for over 12 months now, and darn hecky it's fab.
http://monthlyinfo.com/home

[Phoenix]

I am new to IP so this is a little wierd but....

Aunty Flo is my unwelcome visitor, she has overstayed her welcome for over 3 weeks and only goes home for 2 weeks and again overstays her welcome. I AM EXHAUSTED!! And an emotional mess really.

I am hoping to be out of the tent for a longer time but we will see. I have pretty much given up on being normal again.

I should prob mention that I was incredibly regular and then I had bubs almost a yr ago and it has been a mess.

So I guess I will be seeing everyone around this tent!

[Merlion]

well i guess pregnancy is not going to be for me. Well this afternoon had bad cramping lo-behold i wiped my myself (OOPS TMI) and bloody AF started. Oh well one day it will happen. NOt using any protection since D was born so don't know whats happening with my body. have some interesting caramel chocolate ice-cream swirl so good with marshmallows and duo flavoured cone

[Nyree]

Phoenix - have you had your hormones tested at all?

[Moneypenny]

so I am back in the tent after a 23month break. Feels good to be back, but wistful at the same time..... My babe is no longer so small. I have already had a 'welcome back' pressie from Bec that has taken care of my sugar requirements

[Beckstar]

Pheonix (and Merlion) Chaste tree (Vitex Angus) is a great herb for regulating menstrual cycles. I would reccommend seeing a good practitioner (or at least attending our student clinic) rather than just buying from the HFS and self prescribing.

[Phoenix]

I am off to the doctor tomorrow, I had some testing done at the beginning and wasn't happy with the doc so have changed, I think they have to start again. Off to the hosp with little one so will chat more soon. Thank you

[Savannah]

I cannot belive how heavy my flow is this month.... wondering if it has anything to do with the amount of excermacising I'm doing? any one know anything about flwo increase during excercise?

It apparently increases your flow but shortens it. You just pass it all faster. ykwim?


I'm here too as of last night. No headache, no cravings, no mood swings, no pain. Happy with that. It's heavy today though.

[Hailstorm]

That makes sense as it's really really lightened up today thanks

[Kathryn]

Pheonix (and Merlion) Chaste tree (Vitex Angus) is a great herb for regulating menstrual cycles. I would reccommend seeing a good practitioner (or at least attending our student clinic) rather than just buying from the HFS and self prescribing.

Can you post (or PM) me the clinic details B?

I've been seriously all over the shop last month. Not sure what's going on. Fingers crossed things will be a bit easier this month. :sad

[Merlion]

i hate AF she needs to get back on her train and go back home. my pads leaked through last night and now i have my beautifully clean sheets (put new ones on Sun night) in the washing machine. NOT HAPPY JAN!!! I'm cranky and crampy and have a sore shoulder (pulled a muscle in it last week) and two kids who are running around circles around me literally

[cherish]

I'm in.. and thanks to writing down my days this month.. (had to have a blood test on day 20) I have had a 28 day cycle.. good to know..

usually I have quite bad pms.. but not really this month. I was a bit touchy the other night with Mark.. but not explosive like I have been, a few twinges yesterday- and craving for chocolate. had a bit of a sore spot in my boob- but that's about it.. very unusual for me.

so the stuff my doc has me on is obviously working well.. I haven't stuck religiously to my diet- but I have been taking magnesium every day.. must have been quite deficient! Now to remember to take the zinc!

[jodiemiller]

I'm still waiting!

[mrs fox]

I am not here yet but I wanted to say that I just finish the thread name sake aka The Red Tent...Wow! wow.wow.wow.
I only got it on Thursday and I do not think I have read a book that quick since high school.
I am going to practise my honey bread so I can bring some next time I am here.......I also have a huge ache to do some womens work....off to find a blind to dust or something. :2lol

[ali_celt]

I am here as of this afternoon. Typical, right in the middle of the market - but luckily I was prepared and I tell you, organic bamboo velour on your bits is divine *grin*

tomorrow (and possibly tonight) will be painful painful but I'll manage

[Kathryn]

I'm hovering at the door. Still crossing fingers for a normal cycle.

[mummabare]

left the tent 2 days ago.

[Karena]

I'm here as of this morning. I'm actually disappointed as today is our wedding anniversary and I'm bummer about AF arriving. Oh well. I had been waiting since Thurs for her to arrive.

[Savannah]

I'm out. It was easy this time. No pain, headache or anything. Such an improvement to what I've been having.

Leaving a block of choc on the counter on my way out ladies. Enjoy!

[Merlion]

i'm one leg in the door the other out the door. very light bleeding should be out tomorrow morning

[jodiemiller]

I'm in at last and feeling totally cruddy today. Thanks for the choccie Savannah!

[SeaStar]

tap tap tap
I am waiting to come in here but nothing yet.

[Harmony]

I'm in, a more normal cycle this time, a tad over 30 days, normal flow, normal cramping. Didn't do much today, just laid around with the girls and by evening the cramping was a lot less, yay it worked! Have to be out all day tomorrow though...

[froggie]

I'm in here as of today, unfortunately, but least I'm in good company :)

[Donna]

LOL How long can she linger?! Still in *just*. DD has been in and out so quick this month! Oh to be young again LOL

She'll be shattered when she gets home from school, 2 new squishy cloth pads arrived for her today. She was hoping they would arrive before AF finished!

[SeaStar]

Here I am, Not too bad today, hard to cope without some chocolate, went to do my 30min gym circuit , don't know if I will manage that tomorrow, 2 morning shifts of work too!

[Merlion]

i'm out of here as of this morning. have some yummy choc mud fudge my parents brought back from tasmania willing to share.

[Kali]

I like that site donna! It is so simple and easy :D

[Rinelle]

I'm gonna be in here any day now.... waiting... waiting... for the damn PMS to go!

[Nyree]

Why is it that AF waits until you've got clean sheets on the bed???

So yeah, in as of Tuesday morning.

[jodiemiller]

Oh Ny, that's a nuisance. I'm feeling much, much better today. The worst is over! Yay!

[Karena]

Bugger Ny.

I'm on the way out, but could technically still be in here gossiping with Ny :2lol

[jodiemiller]

*offers Junee's Green Grove (http://www.greengroveorganics.com.au/)chocolate or licorice of choice to all residents of the Red Tent*

[Donna]

mmmmmm yum....... mmmmmmmm......

[SeaStar]

still here and do I have headaches this time, must need a bit of a Iron boost, anyway sticking to the diet and coping.

[Donna]

I'm out as of today :)

[cherish]

I'm out- see ya.. was rather a non event for me really.. hope that continues

[Karena]

I'm out...*leaving some choccie on the shelf for the next lovely woman who arrives* Bye until next month

[Hailstorm]

*dashes in to take a nibble of Karena's choccie, even though she knows she's not meant to be here as AF left a while ago and isn't due back for a few weeks.... dashes out again*

[soulmama]

I'm here today... been feeling crap so it sure explains that! :(

*nibbles choc but doesn't really want it..*

*sigh*

[Rinelle]

I'm in as of today. Finally. Hopefully this means my mood and energy level will improve!

[Snoozie]

weeeeee hihi all

can I blame this for breaking my tmx? lol

Had serious lack of energy yesterday and stabby head pains today.

[Aine]

sadly i enter here i thought for sure i would have another 6 months up my sleeve lik ei did with willow but ....no AF made her gentle return this week i guess though it does mean i could try and slip in one more before the man with the scissors visits Adam... sh dont tell him

[Kali]

Mine returned 3 cycles ago. Very early I thought. I feel your pain Mon! I like the break breastfeeding gives me but this break was too short.
I am lined up waiting to come in. All the symptoms but the big red one. *sigh*

[ali_celt]

aaaand... I'm out. Finally.

Not so bad with the stomach aches and boob aches this time round. Still flooding out of everything under the sun though *sigh* I suppose I really DO have to get that looked at.

[Aine]

yes ALI YOU SHOULD oh sorry didnt mean to yell at you but yes

[Nyree]

I'm out.

Cycle not too bad, but the gastro-kinda thing going on at the same time really sucks!

[SeaStar]

I am heading out too!

[Kali]

I am still not in yet and almost a week overdue. Ashley has been breastfeeding twice as much since my last period. Could I be missing my period because of the extra milk he is now taking?

NO I AM NOT PREGNANT!!!!!

Just thought I would add that before you all start stalking me :2lol

[lizlea]

yep, feeding more will affect your periods. With all of mine I got them back at around 10 months but they were very irregular for some months depending on feeding. Especially if they had a lot of night feeds.

[soulmama]

Moody and achey... and it's day 3... chocolate is ok for breakfast isn't it?? :tongue_smilie

[Savannah]

Absolutely! I will be your enabler >hands SM some Green & Blacks<

[soulmama]

:kiss Savannah!

Saved! :D

[Snoozie]

I want some too darnit! lol

I think I have cocoa powder around here somewhere.... Chocolate and avocado cake?? hmm...!!!

[Rinelle]

I'm pretty much out of here! Catch you all next time.

[jodiemiller]

Me too. Take good care everyone!

[Nyree]

AF had one last hurrah! I *think* I can say I'm out now.

Kali - we wouldn't have even thought that....but now you've put the idea in our heads..... ;)

And yes CM - perfectly fine any time of day :D

[Kali]

Still waiting. All my symptoms have disappeared so I think I won't be coming in here, unless I wear a white dress in public today.....

[soulmama]

Dare ya Kali... ;)

My cycle is soooo out of whack... I can't wait for it to settle down again. :confused1

[lizlea]

I am here as of last night. Feel really blah this time, haven't felt this bad for ages. And probably tmi but I just can't stand the feel of tampons this time - maybe cos I recently has thrush as well? Tried one of dd's disposable pads but I can't stand the smell of them. Thank goodness for cloth hey......

boy I sound like a fussy little whinger....

if you're quick I will share my dark choccy......

[Kali]

I am in here finally from the 4th. Pass the chocolate, lots of chocolate!

[Esther]

I might be coming in too. Will see tomorrow. It would make the last few days more understandable. Just have some spotting. Not sure how tmi it gets in this thread :) Bubs is just 4.5 months but I got it back about a month earlier with my boy.

[mummabare]

I think I should be here by now, I don't know where AF is.

[Kali]

interesting........ maybe you need some stalking......

i am out as of a couple of days ago.

[Phoenix]

back here again as of a few days ago. Icecream has been devoured! Feeling better!

[emd]

I'm in as of an hour ago. Thank goodness for this thread so I can track my cycle! Looks like it was almost exactly one calendar month since I started last time, although it dragged on for a while last month with spotting. And thank goodness for cloth pads - I don't have to keep track of my cycle just to make sure I have tampons in the house!

One thing I've noticed since getting back on cycle properly is that I don't get a warning cramp anymore. I used to be exactly 28 days (never late), and although I never got cramps as such, I would get a bit of lower abdomen discomfort about two hours before it started. I used to use it as a warning to get ready - so I rarely had to soak underwear. Otherwise, it's all working just like I'm 21 again. Can't complain, I guess. But I'm going to eat chocolate tonight anyway.

[Phoenix]

I am so excited! I just had my first normal visit from AF in around a year, oh and the other 10 months that I was pregnant for! Jumping up and down in excitement! WOO HOO

[mummabare]

oh look here she is....
Im in tha tent homies...wheres the chocolate?

[emd]

It's funny y'know, I don't normally have much interest in chocolate... except the day before AF til a couple days into it.

[Lee]

I was expecting to be in here like 3 or 4 weeks ago.... no sign yet...

[emd]

Waiting is frustrating. I'm someone who thrives on certainty, so it drives me nuts when things don't happen when I expected them to.

Found another positive in arrival of AF: this means I'll have my next cycle well before Christmas travels. Yay for convenience!

[mummabare]

em Im the same.

I knew she would come right before sarah blasko concert...coz you know....shes good with timing like that.

[Rinelle]

*plonks herself down in this thread, stalking Lee.*

[Lee]

LOL.... well... there have been certain.... out-of-the-ordinary amorous occurrences lately...

[Rinelle]

Hehe. Now that's just teasing :)

[emd]

Darn it, now we all have to stalk Lee... and of course, the more you stress about it being late, the more late it becomes.

[Lee]

I hadn't even really thought about it much, apart from, "Gosh, must be due pretty soon."
Then I sat down and added up the dates and kind of went, "Oh.... that late, huh? Well... fancy that..."

And added to the... recent activity.... it just seemed a bit coincidental.

But I'm sure it's nothing.... I keep telling myself not to get my hopes up...

[Phoenix]

I was wrong *huffs* no such thing as normal! Not needing any chocolate, just lots of cuddles.

[emd]

Welcome in Phoenix, it's nice to have you here!

[Lee]

*cuddles* for Phoenix


Well no sign yet.... I think if there is still no sign by next Thursday, which will be 64* days since the last one started.... I will have to sort out a test. If I buy them online do they come in incriminating packaging? Because (for various reasons) I don't want Mark to know that I suspect anything just yet.

*Was due after 28-32 ish days.... so...

[mummabare]

*holds breathe* will you please be brave and go purchase one from somewhere...coz I don't know how long I can hold my breathe for ;)

oooh AF is here, and as BORING as ever. Really someone tell this chick to get a life, she ruins everything.

Thats probably a bit melodramatic, I'm just annoyed I can't go swimming with cloth pads on...will have to console myself with chicken cuddles.

[soulmama]

Ummm... discreet packaging would have to be a necessity one would think. ;)

Go on.. go buy some tests.. I'm soooo not patient!! :hyper :hyper

*and since I can now not have anymore, I have to live vicariously through everyone else who can and is! :blushing*

[mummabare]

just..u know....stalking...lol

[Hailstorm]

I'm in as of like 15 minutes ago....

Been to busy to notice any signs

Lee I'm pretty sure you can buy a heap of tests for really cheap on ebay though I'm not sure on how accurate they would be...good Luck dear faerie :kiss

[emd]

I buy them at the supermarket, not the chemist. I buy all my embarassing stuff at the supermarket, so I can freak out the conservative old man in the line behind me. No, actually, it's because pharmacy sales staff sometimes want to offer helpful advice - but Woolies checkout operators just want their shift to be over and don't give a rat's what I'm buying.

Go test Lee! Inquiring minds want to know!:yes

[Savannah]

Oh yes, you have to get a test!

[Merlion]

i thought i might be ovulating today (very armorous today and the past few days) just worked out i'm on day 25 so she should be due soon.

[Nyree]

Officially joining the bandwagon of Lee's stalkers :yes

Myself - I just realised that I pretty much completely missed prime time :angry, so I'll probably be here is a couple of weeks. Looks like I'll be back to a 'normal' cycle length after a couple of 6-week'ers.

[Merlion]

oops stalking Lee too. Forgot to mention it

[Mercurious]

The ones one Ebay work perfectly. If you don't get some soon Lee you will end up with lots of odd packages suddenly arriving fromIP friends!

Maybe a Drs visit would be cheaper.

[spiralgirl]

stalking Lee :)

I hope to not be in here for a very long time on my own business! my egg collection is tomorrow and i hope to be very well and truely up the duff after that

[Hailstorm]

Hope to not see you in here for aaaaaaggggggges T :)


Bleeding pretty heavily today, minor cramping but I'm to excited my new nephew to care

[emd]

Good luck T, hope this place is of no use to you for the next year or so!

I think I'm almost done. It's only been a couple of days, don't hate me for being lucky in how my body works.

[Lee]

Hehehe I have stalkers.

No sign of AF yet.

:D

[mummabare]

oh im so excited...T with all my heart...hoping to not see you in here for ages :D

And Lee...ditto :D!!

*will continue stalking duties in the morning*

[Lee]

If you don't get some soon Lee you will end up with lots of odd packages suddenly arriving fromIP friends!


Hey there's an idea! Someone send me one in a package with something else in it too so when DH asks, "what's that?" I can say, "oh, X sent me some fabric, how sweet of her" or whatever.

See, this being sober thing makes buying stuff really tricky. Even online. Because I am prone to irrational panic. :D

[Hailstorm]

I'm just here cos I saw that Lee posted :2lol

[Nyree]

Lee's gonna have a baaaaaabyyyyyy ;)

[Hailstorm]

Are you just saying that or are you saying that Ny?

[emd]

Oh, I think I'm outta here. But am still stalking Lee...

[Nyree]

Are you just saying that or are you saying that Ny?

I think it's a "just saying" it for now.....but maybe more? Dunno. Mixed messages.

[Hailstorm]

ooooooh....so it's a case of the mysterious mystery then hey? ;)

[Nyree]

Only one person can tell us for sure ;)

[Hailstorm]

Yeah and she's being totally stubborn :2lol

Luv ya Lee :kiss

[Phoenix]

Oh now I too am stalking to see if there is exciting baby news from Lee and Spiral Girl! I am so clucky! bock bock!

I am pretty sure I am meant to be out of here so here is to hoping AF isn't just ducking out for a small siesta.

[ali_celt]

I'm here. Again. *sigh*

[Lee]

Yeah and she's being totally stubborn :2lol

Luv ya Lee :kiss

Hehe.

You people crack me up.

Seriously someone send me one. :yes I need to know if I can drink alcohol (responsibly) on this madcap road trip.

[Lee]

Oh, no sign of AF yet btw.

Did I mention that tomorrow it will be 4-5 weeks overdue?

LOL

[Hailstorm]

LEE!!! Are you normally pretty regular? any other signs?

[spiralgirl]

yes lee i think we really need to know - someone send her a test please.....with some fabric....or something.....

[Phoenix]

Well I got the results back from my blood test today and had a cry when I found out that I didn't have a hormonal imbalance. I wish it was something that I could put my finger on and say 'oh so that is what I have to do to fix it.'

So tired. Sniff.

[Lee]

*big squishy hugs* Phoenix

[~chelle~]

I am very happy to be here with no erratic depression (yet)...my hormones have been crazy in recent months, with 2-3 black black days.

Now, the rediculous thing is, that there are herbs I can take for it, but never remember to make some for myself. If there is one things I need to learn as a herbalist, it's to look after myself FIRST!!! You ahve no idea how hard that is! Or maybe you do?

So, T? Lee? Anyone???

[spiralgirl]

i have an emby trnsfer Friday Chelle- so then its 2 weeks wait to find out if im preggers....

and yep nobody EVER looks after themselves first....well not any Mamas I know anyway!!!

[Karena]

Not due in here for another week but stalking Lee.

I just looked in my drawer and unfortunately I have no tests left. But the ebay ones work great.

[Lee]

Yah but I have literally no monies. Well... $3. ROFL

[Nyree]

PM me your bloody address woman :P

[cherish]

I think I'll be in shortly.... feeling a bit emotional today

[jodiemiller]

Hey, I still have an unused HPT in the bathroom drawer and DH had his vasectomy over a year ago! It ain't serving me. Can send - effortlessly.

Find a GP who bulk bills and don't forget to pee in the jar first thing in the morning.



But I do admire women who don't go for the instant gratification. I mean actually getting that little pink or blue line doesn't change a thing....

[Lee]

PM me your bloody address woman :P

Hehe. I'm not brave enough to argue with that, so...


done.


:D :D

[sarah bean]

i just came here to stalk lee but then remember ha! i actually am currently ditching my innards at an alarming rate, so could be here anyway without having to confess to stalking at all. Yay me. (not, ugh.)

huge phoenix :( sucks :(

yay nyree! soon she can put us all out of our misery lol. though seriously, like 5 weeks? aint no maybe bout that, baby.

sticky emby vibes from tomorrow SG!!!

[Nyree]

OK people - Tests on their way to Lee - we'll all know next week......won't we, Lee ;)

[Hailstorm]

woo!! did you make it look all inconspicuous and stuff?

I'm still kinda half in, not sure if I'm finished jus yet so not willing to give up my spot in the tent yet....well at least not until my faerie friend over there pees on a stick and tells us all what hormones are or aren't in her urine :2lol

[~chelle~]

I'm amazed...I haven't had a blue day yet!!! It must be the multi's I'm taking.

Oh, but how embarrassment...yesterday morning I got changed in a hurry and left undies on the bed - they were dirty, and had the yucky "here I am, your period" telltale sign. I had just gotten home and sat dow on the bed (remember we're in a caravan still), and Isaac arrived home and came to cuddle me, spotting my dirty undies. He said "oh, my God, that's disgusting!" and the look of horror on his face...

Well, Chelle, if you're going to live in a caravan with a teenage boy, you are going to have to be a little diligent about getting rid of your dirty undies immediately.

[Lee]

woo!! did you make it look all inconspicuous and stuff?

I'm still kinda half in, not sure if I'm finished jus yet so not willing to give up my spot in the tent yet....well at least not until my faerie friend over there pees on a stick and tells us all what hormones are or aren't in her urine :2lol

You have such a way with words, Kyls. *sighs blissfully* That was almost poetry.

[Lee]

And LOL, Chelle....

[Lee]

OK people - Tests on their way to Lee - we'll all know next week......won't we, Lee ;)


Oh yes... *nods manically*

[Hailstorm]

*sits on edge of seat in anticipation of the next chapter in the story of Lee's innards*

*leans too far on seat and falls taking the bowl of choc coated macadamia's with her, gets up hoping no one saw, dusts off choc coated macadamia's and places back on table, saunters out cooly*

[sarah bean]

*leans too far on seat and falls taking the bowl of choc coated macadamia's with her, gets up hoping no one saw, dusts off choc coated macadamia's and places back on table, saunters out cooly*
bwahahahhaa

[Nyree]

*thinks Lee's head's going to fall off with all the nodding she's been doing this week!*


woo!! did you make it look all inconspicuous and stuff?

Ordered from eBay & had shipped direct to Lee, but they did say their packaging was all inconspicuous & stuff ;)

[Hailstorm]

Cool so the words 'pee on my contents to reveal your future' aren't plastered all over the package then?

[Nyree]

Not unless "Parcels will be plain and unmarked for privacy and security" is code for "the words 'pee on my contents to reveal your future' are plastered all over the package" :great

[Mercurious]

Do you think Starflower or EPO can bring on a period early? It seemed Aunty Flo thought she should chaperone my night away in Byron Bay with my beloved one.

[cef77]

Damn that AF! She always manages to show up at the most inconvenient of times!!!

[Mercurious]

Yes, party pooper. No beach for me!

[cherish]

oh sorry.. enjoy Byron regardless hey! and find a beloved for me!

[mummabare]

Im out as of yesterday...but kind in...coz you know *stalking* stuff ;)

[cherish]

I'm in as of last night- feeling good- slightly crampy but nothing bad

[Nyree]

I started in the wee hours of the morning. Not sure of the time exactly, but I was in the hospital waiting room at the time. Caught offguard, as I was not expecting AF for a few days, so I actually wondered of the excruciating pains & vomiting & stuff were m/c related, but the test was -ve (the rest was an allergic reaction to a herbal tablet I took). So I threw on some leggings before getting into the ambulance, but no undies. Still cramping, but the bleeding has slowed right down. Nice to be close to my stash of clothies & my own bed now, though!

[mummabare]

((hugs)) nyree I hope your feeling better xxx

[cherish]

hugs nyree- sounds really awful for you. hope you're feeling better.

[Hailstorm]

((HUGS)) Ny :kiss

[Nyree]

Thanks all. Just regular bleeding & blahness now :)

[mrs fox]

I am in.
been 6 wks, so I was starting to freak out that my purchase of cloth got me preggo....but woo hoo AF here. So I am not pregnant and I get you use my new cloth.

I know sugar is the norm but I have some left over veggie rice paper rolls to share.

[Nyree]

I have some left over veggie rice paper rolls to share.

I'm in! :)

[Karena]

I'm in, bringing in my huge stash of choc i bought on the weekend. Doing ok, not to many cramps and a nice easy flow.

[Nyree]

Bring on the choc! Welcome, m'dear :kiss

[Mercurious]

Hugs Ny.

[Savannah]

I think I'm on my way in. Feeling extra amorous and craving chocolate today and felt emotional yesterday.

[Karena]

Thanks Ny, feeling good actually, no cramps and the gastro has left me so I'm doing ok. Just settling in for the week,

[littlemissnaughty]

I resent coming in here this week. Last month took a holiday so I'm totally out of whack, not really sure if I'm early or not.

[mrs fox]

wierd.........i am out, not even 2 days worth...HMMMMM, i'm a bit concerned

[Karena]

Hi Little Miss, just like Sat night huh???? Here some choc Hon :)

[SpringMumma]

Wow - I'm not in, but just checking up - I'm now on the edge of my chair just WAITING to hear about Lee!

Hope everyone else is enjoying their choc and feeling okay.

[Snoozie]

I'm here. This has been the worst lead up to my period I can remember for a long time. I've been emotional all over the shop and now I have thigh/calf cramps.

Doesn't help I haven't had anywhere near enough water generally let alone given the recent heat. Had 3 glasses of water and cramps have subsided a fair bit.

I'm waiting to hear about Lee too.

How's everyone else going?

[Nyree]

Still here. Heavy, but runny, so had to break out the emergency sposie pads whilst waiting for the others to dry on the line. Really should be sewing more pads instead of typing here, but oh well! :2lol

Sorry to hear it's a bad one for you, Snoozie. Get yourself some magnesium, too ;)

[Snoozie]

I think it's also the first period I haven't taken my preg and breastfeeding multis for. I might have to but some more. I got a new bottle a couple of months ago and they have a really pungent smell and when you put the tablet on your Tongue it tastes gross!!! I did read on he bottle that they'd changed it somewhat since the last bottle I purchased but still!

Anyone use blackmores and have same issue? Think I'll suck it up tomorrow and buy a new bottle.

[jodiemiller]

C'mon, Lee doesn't need to pee on a stick now. She is surely pregnant!

I'm in. Feeling OK. Hate the monthly skin breakouts tho'.

I take Swiss Women's Formula. It doesn't taste that great either.

[cef77]

I'll be here in the next few days, my skin thinks it is 15 again and I have been performing transfiguration and chaning into a blubbering puddle on the floor!!! Looking forward to my first visit in the IP red tent.

[Nyree]

Gee - it's busy in here ATM!

[~chelle~]

I'm out. Just stalking.

[Snoozie]

Lol. I'm here.

[cef77]

YAY!! I'm in the IP red tent for the very first time, feeling emotionally fragile, bloated and a bit blah.

But I come bearing gluten free passionfruit slice!!!! Who wants some????

[jodiemiller]

Ooh, I'll give it a try Catherine! Welcome back. It has been so long!

[Savannah]

I'm still not in, though it's not unusual for me to be late. I've had all the signs that it was arriving though and now they've passed. I might miss this month completely I think.

[cef77]

I was in on exactly day 28! That never happened when I was using chemical contraception. I am LOVING that my body is running on its own steam.

**passes a slab of passionfruit slice to Jodie**

[Beckstar]

Hey there, I am here again, has been since Monday, however with all the study and stress I haven't been giving myself any tent time! I really only took some time this morning when I rinsed the cloths and watered my plants.

[Merlion]

i'm in here as of an hour ago. had karate last night and then came home to bleeding

[Nyree]

Last day today, me thinks

[Rinelle]

I'm in as of today.

[jodiemiller]

Welcome Tamara.

[Rinelle]

Thanks Jodie. :)

[Snoozie]

I think I'll be exiting too... weird month!

[Karena]

Think I'm on my way out too, hope not to see you next month Ny :2lol

Bye everyone until next month

[cherish]

see you everyone.. I'm out!!

[cef77]

I'm here and oh so bloated and heavy and blah!!!! But, not a lot of cramping, so that's okay.

I have a questions for cup users. I have recently got a Diva Cup and am struggling to feel comfortable when I use it. This could be tmi, but it feels like it will fall out???? Is very uncomforatble sitting etc. Any ideas ladies?

[Nyree]

hope not to see you next month Ny

Thanks hon, but I'll be here. Have to avoid TTC this month so I can go to my Dad's 60th in 9 months - already bought the plane tickets!

[Merlion]

AF is not a b*tch this month she's seems to be nice about the cramping but heavy on the bleeding. well that means AF would probably be due at christmas while we are driving 5 hours away great oh great

[SeaStar]

I have been in since Thursday, still sticking to the diet ans I find this the hardest time. I have now lost 10kg and 40cm in measurements. I am nearly half way to my goal weight!!

[Snoozie]

Well done Sea Star! Wish I had your motivation. :)

[Nyree]

:yeah:

[jodiemiller]

Go SeaStar!

Catherine, the cup does sit in the lower half of the vagina, and the stem can sometimes *just* be felt from the outside. So sitting down, especially on day 2 or 3 when cervix is low and flow is heaviest, can cause leakage. You can cut a fraction of the stem (use a sharp knife on a board as scissors will cut crooked and leave a 'snip' that germs and stains can invade). If you push it higher it won't form a neat seal and you'll also have leakage. It does take a while to get used to, but it cannot fall out. On day 1, 2 & 3 my pelvic floor does feel weak and heavy anyway so I totally get that feeling you're describing.

[Mum2ATeam]

I'm new here, so not sure how this works, but I'm in.

DD2 is only 4.5mths! I'm feeling very ripped off. :cry_smile This is my first time of things starting back up naturally cause I went on the mini pill after the older two, so I didn't know how long I'd get, but was hoping for a bit longer.

I'm feeling very Blah, not very crampy, just tired and yuck. Wish I could pig out on choc, but GF DF choc tastes disgusting. Oh, and DH is being a tosser. :angry

Does anyone know if it's possible to ovulate twice (a week apart) in the same cycle? I would have thought that the hormone levels would have changed too much in a week to allow a second one?

[jodiemiller]

I don't know for sure, but I imagine it's quite possible to ovulate within a few days of each other, from both ovaries. I've had the lunar menstrual cycle explained to me numerous times - not sure I find it plausible or not but I've certainly had my share of unexplainable symptoms so maybe there's something to the theory.

I'm out of here as of today. Leaving Junee Organic Dark Choc-coated Almonds for anyone needing a fix. See you next month!

[cef77]

Bye Jodie, I thought I was outta here, but my body has other ideas and my period had had another resurgance!!!

On a bragging note, this is my first month using ALL cloth products!!!! I'm feeling very proud of myself.

[Rinelle]

I'm out of here too. Bye all.

[Phoenix]

well, finished on the 17th and back in here already. I thought things were becoming normal again but I was wrong.

So sitting back, enjoying the mint slice biscuits and passing the box around.

[Rinelle]

Darn, I knew I left too early. *sneaks back in for a mint slice biscuit*

[jodiemiller]

:2lol

[lindylou]

I'm in...and very appreciative to be sharing a mint slice! Damn I love those. I am feeling quite blergh in this heat and cramping badly when I am standing...I only starting getting this 'undercarraige' pain since DS3 was born. Maybe something to do with weak pelvic floor?

[Blossomtime]

I'm here today and happy to see I'm bleeding with the full moon. Its a big round egg yolk of a moon tonight :D It also explains why my body wanted to go earlier than usual this cycle.

Oh and Ny, there's your answer ;)

[cef77]

Yay! Finally outta here.

Bye, see you next month :)

[Nyree]

Oh and Ny, there's your answer

Hmmmmm....wonder what it was then??? :huh

Oh well....have one of these on me :chocolatebunny:

[Bee]

Thinking I'm getting VERY close... I get these disgusting pimples just before my bleed these days, anyone else get that?

[cef77]

Yep, my skin seems to think it is 15 just before I bleed!

[Nyree]

Mine too :(

[Savannah]

I'm in as of this morning. I had begun to secretly hope that DH's vasectomy hadn't worked but alas, alack and so forth.

[mrs fox]

Hellooooo, this better not be a 2 week thing, cause I got Xmas on the beach in 1 1/2 weeks......and I have to move

[Merlion]

oopsie forgot to come in to say i am out of here as of mon. oh well better late than never i guess

[Hailstorm]

I'm O'ing ATM but feels like AF....can I have some mint slice?

[Phoenix]

sure Kyls!! Bahahah

[Hailstorm]

Excellent *squishes in next to Phoenix*

[Nyree]

I'm O'ing ATM but feels like AF

I think that big mother of a full moon is messing with us this month ;)

[soulmama]

Another one waiting... think I've been a little stressed lately... come on AF! :sarcastic

[melchpeppi]

im not in, Im just visiting :D. Will be awhile before Im back in here, is it ok if I visit the ladies every now and then?

[Hailstorm]

Wouldn't have it any other way Mel :)

[melchpeppi]

Phew, thankyou :D. Nice to keep in touch with y'all!

[lindylou]

I'm still here, but only just! Just ate a substantial quantity of Ferrero Rochers...somebody please take some before I polish off the lot! ;-)

[Hailstorm]

Umm I'll take them even though I'm not O'ing and AF isn't here for a couple more weeks but YUMMMM!!!!!

[lindylou]

all yours kyls!

[spiralgirl]

bleeding......releasing.....this is what would have kept you warm and helped you grow, this is your lifeline leaving me.....

[Mum2ATeam]

I'm leaving. See you all next month. *hands the GF DF mint slices on to the next person* :)

[Phoenix]

Oh Spiralgirl. *tears* and then ((hugs))

[cef77]

:realbighug:
bleeding......releasing.....this is what would have kept you warm and helped you grow, this is your lifeline leaving me.....

[Mum2ATeam]

Hugs Spiralgirl

[Nyree]

Tackling Kyls for the Rochers & hugging SG at the same time

[Bee]

love to you SG...

I'm in here as of yesterday, feeling really achey, almost like I remember late pregnancy felt, sore pelvis and upper legs.

I'm feeling really positive about my periods at the moment, I do not have to fear pregnancy at all these days, a bit hard when you are single, but I also have sovereignty over my body again, and I'm never letting that go again.

[Phoenix]

I am out (fingers crossed) as of yesterday! Leaving another packet of mint slice biscuits just because they rock!

[Kali]

I am in, a couple of weeks late, but ash is still putting on weight so i am happy :D

[Blossomtime]

I'm wandering out... there's a block of Maya Gold over there in the corner if anyone wants it...

[soulmama]

*pounces on choc* :whistles

:kiss

[Phoenix]

*sulks back in and grabs handfulls of chocolate*

[Kali]

pass all the chocolate my way. better on my hips than yours.......

[Savannah]

Hugs SG.

I'm still quite heavy tonight. Normally I have a heavy and fast period but this time it is drawn out and steady. I need to up my greens I think, that always seems to make a difference.

[SpringMumma]

I'm in. Feel like I could eat a whole kilo of chocolate in one sitting, but otherwise okay - not grumpy or teary which is a nice change!

[lindylou]

Passes Ingrid the new box of Ferrero's ;) I am out of here as of yesterday...I'll be back in between Chrissy and New Year!

[Lee]

Hugs SG.

I am in, finally. 7 weeks late... wonder what that was about.


I think the universe might be trying to tell me something.

[Savannah]

I've been wondering how you were going Lee.

[Nyree]

Phew - must be a relief, Lee

[Kali]

I am out and just in time it looks like :2lol

[spiralgirl]

lee- wonder if i should give you hugs or say yay??? im guessing you feel a mixture of emotions? SO im going the hug xxx

[marmee]

I'm in - who has the chocolate?

Feeling good, though. Yep - this last month was shit. Time for it to be washed away. Release the woman in me. Release the strength.

[mummabare]

im in...early. Should have known by the chocolate feast I had and the three pimples that appeared overnight.

Hugs to those that need em xxx

[Phoenix]

I am out now too! Hooray. Glad you will be free for the hospital tomorrow Kali. Not nice to have AF visit while in hospy.

[emd]

Holy frig. I really am bleeding like a 21 year old all over again. Thanks to this thread, I've worked out that I have a precisely 28.5 day cycle (yes, predictable to within a few hours). And that I have a strange urge to eat chocolate the day before bleeding starts, normally I'm not a big fan of chocolate blocks.

[Hailstorm]

EM I had that exact same cycle when I was 18 AF would arrive at around 6pm every 28th day!!!

[SpringMumma]

I'm out! Short and sweet this time.

*passes half-eaten box of Fererro's to Marmee on my way out the door*

[Lee]

lee- wonder if i should give you hugs or say yay??? im guessing you feel a mixture of emotions? SO im going the hug xxx

Thanks, SG...

I know in practical terms it probably will make things much smoother that I'm NOT pg this soon... but of course I was still massively disappointed, even though I tried not to be...

Time for some talking with the menfolk and seeing where to go from here. It's definitely a physical possibility for me to fall pg soon (if everyone was up for it), at this point, for which I am profoundly thankful.... it's just the mental/emotional/practical bits to work out.

Got a few options at this point.... trying to decide if the husband is worth bringing along for the ride, actually.... it's a bit tricky really. Perhaps that should be another thread altogether.

Anyway, thanks for the hugs.

I'm actually really quite enjoying the bleed this time around. Normally the first 24 hours are only survivable (and I mean that literally... I go so nuts with the pain I feel suicidal) with a ton of pills, and alcohol.... and seeing I'm not drinking anymore, I was sober... and I also only took 2 pills at 2am when I positively couldn't get to sleep. The rest of it's been pretty... well, not cruisy, but bearable. I think it's the more raw food I've been eating, so I'm totally sticking with that.

[emd]

Lee, the healthy eating and lack of alcohol may well have a lot to do with the reduced pain this cycle. Hope it continues to run smoothly until it's done.

I don't get cramps usually, and I'm not generally moody. But this arvo I feel like listening to Music To Slash Your Wrists By. Have just been listening to Don McLean's Vincent and feel like having a big cry. Nothing to do with bleeding, though. More likely the change in weather. I am a Sunshine person - the sun went behind the clouds after lunch, and I've felt sad ever since. Sometimes I think I should live in Darwin.