We arrived at the hospital within 10 minutes… calling family along the way letting them know what was going on. We parked in “stork parking” and headed inside to the second floor. For some reason, the desk didn’t have our file, so check-in took a little longer than expected. Once the paperwork was done, we were directed to the labor and delivery hall. A nurse (Emily) met us at the door, checked my weight, and took us into an exam room where I was given a gown to change into before the examination got started.
The nurse put a blood pressure cuff on my arm and a fetal heart rate monitor on my stomach. She then took a piece of paper to check to see if my membranes had actually broken (some kind of test that changes the color of the paper to blue if a woman’s water has broken). Well, the nurse confirmed that my water had broken, so I would be staying the night. The baby was doing great, but my blood pressure was a little high (which is pretty normal for women to have higher blood pressure when they check-in). So, I was moved from the exam room to a labor and delivery room. The nurse (still Emily) told me that Dr. Lacy was on call for the weekend, and he would come in to meet me soon, but she would be our nurse until 7:00 am. So, I gave her a copy of my birth plan and after looking it over. The main thing I mentioned in the birth plan was that I wanted to hold off on pain meds for as long as I could. I wasn’t against them, but I wanted to see how far I could go on my own… and when I wanted them, I would ask for them. I also mentioned that as long as things were progressing naturally on their own, I would didn’t want to use any augmenting drugs. Emily seemed to be fine with what was in the plan. And when Dr. Lacy came by to introduce himself, he seemed fine with everything too.
Dr. Lacy was not the doctor that I had been seeing for the past 9 months, but I was pretty familiar with who he was… at least by name. At least 3 of the ladies that work with me at City Hall are Dr. Lacy’s patients. In fact, he delivered 3 children years ago for 2 of my 3 co-workers, and he delivered a friend’s baby boy in May. So, even though I had to use an on-call doctor, I was happy that it was someone I had heard so many good things about.
(Back to the labor & delivery…)
When the doctor checked me around 8:00, I was only 1 cm dilated and the baby’s head was still fairly high (-2). Dr. Lacy said that he was going to head home for the evening, but not to worry because he lived close by. He also guessed that I wouldn’t deliver until the morning. So, I was pretty much told to hang out for the night, and if I didn’t progress enough overnight, they would start me on pitocin in the morning. So, the wait started… and the contractions started coming. At first, they weren’t too bad. But as the night continued, so did the contractions with increasing intensity. I tried sitting up, walking around some (usually to the bathroom and back and a few laps around the room), sitting on a birthing/exercise ball, and even trying to push/pull through the contraction pain, but the pain continued and my body started shaking because of it. Around 10:30 or so, my sister (Catherine) showed up. It was great to have her there. She provided some comic relief, and she was a great support system.
The contractions and shaking were getting pretty bad, and I started discussing with Dusty (in between contractions) that I may want to ask for an epidural soon. He started asking questions and trying to make sure that I was sure I wanted to get pain meds since I had stated the whole time that I wanted to go without the pain meds as long as possible. But with each stronger and longer lasting contraction, I was getting more and more confident that I wanted an epidural. Shortly afterwards (around midnight), the nurse came back in to check me again, and I was still only at 1 cm… but Emily mentioned that my cervix was so soft she had stretched it to 4 cm. It was then that I asked for an epidural – being that far away from “push time” and having contractions as strong as they were… there was no way I would be able to handle the pain without help.
By 1:00 am, the anesthesiologist was in my room, finished with the procedure, and talking to Dusty about the Greek system at Clemson. I was amazed at how quickly the epidural started working. The nurse told us that she would leave us alone for a while and let us rest… she would check in on us again around 5:00 am. So, we “rested.” Catherine and Dusty may have gotten a little sleep, but I wouldn’t say that I slept. With a blood pressure cuff going off every 30 minutes, the lights from the monitors by my head shining bright, and the constant thoughts and questions going through my head, it wasn’t possible to get sleep. But the time passed fairly quickly. At 5:00 am, Emily came in to check my progress, and she was surprised to report that I was 10 cm, but the baby’s head is still kind of high. Because of that, Dr. Lacy recommended that we start the pitocin to see if that would bring the baby down a little more. The pitocin certainly did something – it brought on stronger contractions that I could feel pretty strong, so the nurse called in the anesthesiologist’s assistant to increase the dose of medicine I was getting.
At the shift change at 7:00 am, the baby’s head was still high, but I was told that I would be able to start pushing soon. Dr. Lacy came in and said that he wanted me to push for a little while, and hopefully it would bring the baby’s head down. I started pushing around 8:00 am, and the new nurse said that she thought I was making some progress. Dr. Lacy came back in around 9:00 am to check again. According to him, the baby’s head was still too high. He told me that I would be able to push for another hour, but if things didn’t change, he would recommend a c-section. With the determination of not wanting to have a c-section, I pushed with every bit of energy I had left in my body. As I pushed, Dusty and Catherine said they were able to see the baby’s head (which was covered with dark hair)! The nurse said that she could tell I had definitely made some progress. So an hour later, Dr. Lacy came back in and again said he couldn’t see much progress. He would give me another 15 minutes, but he thought a c-section would be the safest way to deliver. When those 15 minutes passed, he checked again, and then he reported that the baby’s head was still high, but the problem was that it hadn’t turned the way it was supposed to. So, he wanted to schedule the operating room to deliver with a c-section. My sister then commented that the good news was, that we would have a baby in 30 minutes… to which the doctor replied it may be more like an hour because of the prep and what not. Well, about that time, I started getting extremely intense pains in my back that didn’t let up. Yep, I was experiencing back labor – and honestly, it was miserable.
Because of that pain… they rushed me back to the operating room and started moving along faster than Dr. Lacy had planned. Within minutes, I was on the operating table, and the procedure was underway. Dr. Lacy saw that I had a scar on my abdomen already from a skin graph, and he must have read my chart from where Dr. Shelley (my doc) and I had discussed making the incision over the same scar that was already there. So, in he went, and out she came! I heard her cry, and it made me cry too. She continued to cry for what seemed like forever, and then the nurse placed her on my chest. I didn’t get to hold her for long… and I don’t even think that counts as holding your baby when you can only use one hand to touch her. Very shortly after they placed her on me, they took her to the nursery. I stayed on the table, got stapled up, and was then moved to recovery.
The nurse who was with me during recovery told me that the only thing I had to do to be able to leave recovery and get to my room and baby was move my feet and lift my knees. So she asked me to try… and I was able to do both right then. She smiled and told me I won’t be there long! But then she took my blood pressure and it was really high. She gave me some kind of meds to help bring it down, but it didn’t work as quickly as she hoped. So, I ended up in recovery longer than either of us expected. She continued to check my blood pressure, and then she explained that she had to press on my stomach to make sure I didn’t have any hemorrhaging. She warned it would hurt (and I had heard it was the worse part of having a baby). The warnings couldn’t prepare me for the pain I felt… it was intense, and every time they did it (which was probably 6 or 7 times while I was there) – it hurt! But after surviving that pain, I was cleared to go to my room (even though my blood pressure was still quite high).
I spent a little time getting in my new bed and getting checked out by my new nurse. My sister came in briefly to tell me that she was taking the grandmothers to get some lunch so that Dusty and I would have some uninterrupted time with the baby. She also mentioned that she was beautiful, and Dusty had done a great job of keeping everyone else from seeing her before I was able to have time with her. Once the nurse was done checking everything possible, Dusty came in with Reese.
For the first time, I was able to actually hold that precious baby girl that had been growing in me for the last 9 months. I couldn’t get over the fact that a couple of hours ago, that priceless baby was in me. And just like that, she was here! She’s absolutely perfect – and I don’t think I have ever seen a more beautiful baby (I know I’m a little bias).
No, things didn’t go the way I wanted them to go. I didn’t want a c-section… and to be honest, I was still upset by it for several days. I didn’t feel like I really had an opinion – in my mind, I could have tried harder, or we could have tried something else. But now, I’m just thankful that this sweet girl is home and seems to be thriving. It’s hard to remember what life was like before her… and though I’m extremely tired most of the time these days, I wouldn’t trade it for anything in this world.
Reese was safely delivered… and at the end of the day, that’s the most important part and the end of this “birth story.”
11.04.2010
11.01.2010
Birth Story... part 1
In between feedings and napping (which isn’t happening as much as I would like)... I have taken some time to finally write out Reese’s birth story.
When we had our first ultrasound, Dusty and I made bets as to when Baby Harrison would arrive. I predicted October 1, even though most of my family predicted she would come in September since it’s such a birthday filled month in my family. I guessed she would hold out until October and come on the 1st. Dusty predicted she would arrive on the 7th. I don’t know if he had a real reason for his prediction, but the 7th was his guess all the same.
Fast forward 7 months. Thursday night (September 30), we went to Anderson (with my hospital bag in tow… just in case) to celebrate a friend’s birthday. Anderson (for those who aren’t familiar with the area) is about 20-30 minutes from our house. It’s also the city where the doctor’s office and hospital I where would deliver is located. After dinner with friends and a quick trip to Best Buy, we headed back to Clemson and unloaded the hospital bag from the car. Later that night, I went to sleep, but when I woke up to use the bathroom, I had trouble falling asleep. The only thing that went through my mind was the fact that it was October 1, and if my prediction was right… I could be a parent REALLY soon. I had so many questions go through my mind that night… Is she really coming today? When will it happen? Will I start having contractions – and what do they feel like? Will my water break? How long will labor last? Who will come down to visit and when? The questions kept coming, and the sleep never came back that night.
That morning, I decided that I might as well go to work for a few hours because sitting around the house thinking about the date and the baby’s possible arrival would drive me crazy. I got a little later start (because I was exhausted), but I made it to work and did what I could while there. Before I left, I made sure I tied up all the loose ends I could think of since my due date was on Sunday (10/3). I said my goodbyes (in case it was the last time for a while) and headed home to hopefully take a nap. But once I got home, the nesting started up again. I cleaned as much as I could and did everything that I could see to do before Dusty got home. When he got home, we decided that we would head to dinner for our anniversary – our three year anniversary was going to be the following Wednesday (10/6), but since we knew that we may not be able to go out then because we could have a baby by then, we thought we might as well celebrate with dinner out while we were baby free.
We headed to Anderson (again with hospital bag in tow… just in case) to have dinner at a Japanese steakhouse. We pulled in to the parking lot, and Dusty got out and waited for me to get out too. As I reached for the door handle I felt a pretty sharp cramp followed by a warm stream of liquid that seemed to be leaking from my body. I quickly opened the door and told Dusty that I was pretty sure my water just broke. I got out of the car, with fluid continuing to run down my leg, and Dusty excitedly asked… So are we going to the hospital now? I thankful had a packed bag in the car, so I told him that I would go inside to the bathroom and make sure it wasn’t just my bladder (which I hadn’t lost control of yet, but just to be on the safe side…), change my undies and get a pad, and we could go from there. But while I was inside, he could go ahead and call my sister to give her the heads up to head to SC.
When entering the restaurant, the hostess asked if we needed a table for two, where I simply asked if I could use her restroom first. She pointed in the direction of the restrooms. In the bathroom, there was a much bigger “gush” when I sat down with a continued trickle, and as I changed, I was pretty confident that it was time to head to the hospital. When I was a little more composed, I met Dusty at the door and told him we should go.
(to be continued…)
When we had our first ultrasound, Dusty and I made bets as to when Baby Harrison would arrive. I predicted October 1, even though most of my family predicted she would come in September since it’s such a birthday filled month in my family. I guessed she would hold out until October and come on the 1st. Dusty predicted she would arrive on the 7th. I don’t know if he had a real reason for his prediction, but the 7th was his guess all the same.
Fast forward 7 months. Thursday night (September 30), we went to Anderson (with my hospital bag in tow… just in case) to celebrate a friend’s birthday. Anderson (for those who aren’t familiar with the area) is about 20-30 minutes from our house. It’s also the city where the doctor’s office and hospital I where would deliver is located. After dinner with friends and a quick trip to Best Buy, we headed back to Clemson and unloaded the hospital bag from the car. Later that night, I went to sleep, but when I woke up to use the bathroom, I had trouble falling asleep. The only thing that went through my mind was the fact that it was October 1, and if my prediction was right… I could be a parent REALLY soon. I had so many questions go through my mind that night… Is she really coming today? When will it happen? Will I start having contractions – and what do they feel like? Will my water break? How long will labor last? Who will come down to visit and when? The questions kept coming, and the sleep never came back that night.
That morning, I decided that I might as well go to work for a few hours because sitting around the house thinking about the date and the baby’s possible arrival would drive me crazy. I got a little later start (because I was exhausted), but I made it to work and did what I could while there. Before I left, I made sure I tied up all the loose ends I could think of since my due date was on Sunday (10/3). I said my goodbyes (in case it was the last time for a while) and headed home to hopefully take a nap. But once I got home, the nesting started up again. I cleaned as much as I could and did everything that I could see to do before Dusty got home. When he got home, we decided that we would head to dinner for our anniversary – our three year anniversary was going to be the following Wednesday (10/6), but since we knew that we may not be able to go out then because we could have a baby by then, we thought we might as well celebrate with dinner out while we were baby free.
We headed to Anderson (again with hospital bag in tow… just in case) to have dinner at a Japanese steakhouse. We pulled in to the parking lot, and Dusty got out and waited for me to get out too. As I reached for the door handle I felt a pretty sharp cramp followed by a warm stream of liquid that seemed to be leaking from my body. I quickly opened the door and told Dusty that I was pretty sure my water just broke. I got out of the car, with fluid continuing to run down my leg, and Dusty excitedly asked… So are we going to the hospital now? I thankful had a packed bag in the car, so I told him that I would go inside to the bathroom and make sure it wasn’t just my bladder (which I hadn’t lost control of yet, but just to be on the safe side…), change my undies and get a pad, and we could go from there. But while I was inside, he could go ahead and call my sister to give her the heads up to head to SC.
When entering the restaurant, the hostess asked if we needed a table for two, where I simply asked if I could use her restroom first. She pointed in the direction of the restrooms. In the bathroom, there was a much bigger “gush” when I sat down with a continued trickle, and as I changed, I was pretty confident that it was time to head to the hospital. When I was a little more composed, I met Dusty at the door and told him we should go.
(to be continued…)
10.12.2010
Baby Reese has arrived!
I won't write much for now, but I at least wanted to post a quick something informing those who may not know that our baby is here! :)
Reese Buchanan Harrison was born on Saturday October 2, 2010 at 10:29 am by cesarean delivery. She weighed 7 lbs and 13 oz and measured to be 21 inches long. She has dark brown hair and dark blue eyes (for now at least). She is absolutely precious to us, and we feel so blessed that she arrived safely.
Her birth story will come when I have a little more time to write it. But until then... I'll just say that she's home!
And for your viewing pleasure... here's my favorite picture of her from our stay at the hospital.
Reese Buchanan Harrison was born on Saturday October 2, 2010 at 10:29 am by cesarean delivery. She weighed 7 lbs and 13 oz and measured to be 21 inches long. She has dark brown hair and dark blue eyes (for now at least). She is absolutely precious to us, and we feel so blessed that she arrived safely.
Her birth story will come when I have a little more time to write it. But until then... I'll just say that she's home!
And for your viewing pleasure... here's my favorite picture of her from our stay at the hospital.
9.29.2010
39.5 week appt -- we're getting closer!
Being the first appointment after lunch definitely has its advantages! The wait was pretty short, and I was in and out of there and back at work within 30 minutes!
The normal procedures happened again… urine sample, blood pressure (129/87) and weight were all checked. Then it was back to an exam room to undress from the waist down and wait to be “checked” again. Dr. Shelley came in, measured, and listened to the heart-rate with the Doppler. After saying that everything looked good… she got ready to check my cervix.
There was still “a little pressure” this time around… but it didn’t feel as uncomfortable as last week. When she finished she reported that I was 1 cm, 90% effaced, and the baby’s head was at -2. I kindly asked her to explain… to which she said that I had completely dilated to 1 cm; my cervix has thinned out to nearly nothing, and the baby’s head has dropped significantly and is in the pelvic area. So there has been great progress since last week! My follow-up question was… when’s she coming? Dr. Shelley laughed and said she didn’t know, but it could be any time. She reported that she told a patient the same thing yesterday at 2:30, and this morning when she checked charts online, she noticed that same patient had delivered overnight!
Before I left, I had her look over my birth plan. Most everything on there seemed fine, and she even gave me a suggestion for a birthing position that seemed to work best for alleviating pain. With that checked, she said she would go ahead and make an appointment for next week. But we somewhat joked about her coming this weekend! I told her that I have guessed she would come October 1. So, she mentioned that it would work well for her schedule, but if baby didn’t come by then… she would see me next week at my appointment.
Here’s hoping that the current tropical depression and low pressure it brings will allow us to meet sweet pea this weekend as opposed to possibly needing to be induced later!
The normal procedures happened again… urine sample, blood pressure (129/87) and weight were all checked. Then it was back to an exam room to undress from the waist down and wait to be “checked” again. Dr. Shelley came in, measured, and listened to the heart-rate with the Doppler. After saying that everything looked good… she got ready to check my cervix.
There was still “a little pressure” this time around… but it didn’t feel as uncomfortable as last week. When she finished she reported that I was 1 cm, 90% effaced, and the baby’s head was at -2. I kindly asked her to explain… to which she said that I had completely dilated to 1 cm; my cervix has thinned out to nearly nothing, and the baby’s head has dropped significantly and is in the pelvic area. So there has been great progress since last week! My follow-up question was… when’s she coming? Dr. Shelley laughed and said she didn’t know, but it could be any time. She reported that she told a patient the same thing yesterday at 2:30, and this morning when she checked charts online, she noticed that same patient had delivered overnight!
Before I left, I had her look over my birth plan. Most everything on there seemed fine, and she even gave me a suggestion for a birthing position that seemed to work best for alleviating pain. With that checked, she said she would go ahead and make an appointment for next week. But we somewhat joked about her coming this weekend! I told her that I have guessed she would come October 1. So, she mentioned that it would work well for her schedule, but if baby didn’t come by then… she would see me next week at my appointment.
Here’s hoping that the current tropical depression and low pressure it brings will allow us to meet sweet pea this weekend as opposed to possibly needing to be induced later!
9.24.2010
1st "Check" at 38.5 wks
The first day of fall (and a full moon) had many people predicting that Baby Harrison would make an early appearance. So, when I went to the doctor’s office for my appointment, I hoped that I would have some good news!
I may even like going in the afternoon better… because I certainly didn’t have to wait very long to be called back. I had my weight and blood pressure checked as usual. Then I waited in the nurse’s office area for a room instead of going back out to the waiting room. A few minutes later I was led to an exam room and asked to undress from the waist down because Dr. Shelley would be “checking” me at this appointment.
When she came in, she mentioned that I had lost .5 a pound since last week… but that everything else looked good. She started by measuring (38 cm) and listening to the baby’s heartbeat (both were normal). Then she explained that she was going to check my cervix… It would just feel like a little pressure. I’m not sure what her explanation of pressure is – because it’s certainly not the same as mine! It wasn’t that it was painful, but it was very uncomfortable! She concluded that I was “a fingertip, 50%, and a little high.” Obviously, I had to ask for an explanation. A fingertip describes the dilation of my cervix – had she been at the knuckle… I would be 1 cm, but I’m not quite there. I understood the 50% – that is the softness or ripeness of my cervix. A little high describes the location of the baby’s head. I could have probably told her that she was a little high before she checked because I can clearly still feel where she is located (just under my ribs).
So, unless my water were to break, it was very unlikely (in her opinion) that my baby would come on this full moon. I will see her again on Wednesday September 29 (in Clemson) to be checked again and see what progress I’ve made. But until then… we continue to wait. I am excited that “something” is happening, and while I would love it if she decided to come on out… I’m okay that she’s not here quite yet. She will come when she’s ready, and if she’s not ready yet, that’s okay. I mean, it’s not like she’s past her due date yet. So, I have no reason to worry. And knowing that my body is making some progress to get her here is pretty encouraging.
I may even like going in the afternoon better… because I certainly didn’t have to wait very long to be called back. I had my weight and blood pressure checked as usual. Then I waited in the nurse’s office area for a room instead of going back out to the waiting room. A few minutes later I was led to an exam room and asked to undress from the waist down because Dr. Shelley would be “checking” me at this appointment.
When she came in, she mentioned that I had lost .5 a pound since last week… but that everything else looked good. She started by measuring (38 cm) and listening to the baby’s heartbeat (both were normal). Then she explained that she was going to check my cervix… It would just feel like a little pressure. I’m not sure what her explanation of pressure is – because it’s certainly not the same as mine! It wasn’t that it was painful, but it was very uncomfortable! She concluded that I was “a fingertip, 50%, and a little high.” Obviously, I had to ask for an explanation. A fingertip describes the dilation of my cervix – had she been at the knuckle… I would be 1 cm, but I’m not quite there. I understood the 50% – that is the softness or ripeness of my cervix. A little high describes the location of the baby’s head. I could have probably told her that she was a little high before she checked because I can clearly still feel where she is located (just under my ribs).
So, unless my water were to break, it was very unlikely (in her opinion) that my baby would come on this full moon. I will see her again on Wednesday September 29 (in Clemson) to be checked again and see what progress I’ve made. But until then… we continue to wait. I am excited that “something” is happening, and while I would love it if she decided to come on out… I’m okay that she’s not here quite yet. She will come when she’s ready, and if she’s not ready yet, that’s okay. I mean, it’s not like she’s past her due date yet. So, I have no reason to worry. And knowing that my body is making some progress to get her here is pretty encouraging.
9.20.2010
T-minus 13 days (and counting)
We have made it to the last 2 weeks until our due date! It’s really kind of hard to believe… but here we are. Now the anticipation of sweet pea’s arrival is building at an incredible rate! I think that the unknown is the hardest part of the process.
As the next couple of weeks approach, I find myself wondering when she will make her debut. How and how long will labor and delivery go? What date and time will she choose to make her arrival? What will she look like – from hair and eye color to facial shape and hair length? How much will she weight and how long will she measure? I’m certainly ready to meet her!
I find myself thinking about the next steps too. Is there anything else that needs to be done before baby is born? Dusty would say that I have definitely been nesting in the last week or so. But when I’m cleaning and rearranging, I don’t know that it’s completely necessary. So, does that mean we’re ready!? I know that no one can really prepare us for what it will be like to be parents. It’s a huge life change… we know. But it’s not even something that can really be prepared because there are still so many unknowns.
I’m definitely a “type A” personality, so the waiting and unknown isn’t something that I’m a fan of by any means. But I am trying to tell myself to relax and let that whole control thing go… it’s not like I have much of a choice. I know that she will come when she’s ready; I would just like to have an idea of when that is going to be.
She certainly hasn’t calmed down in there at all! She obviously doesn’t have the space to kick and punch like she used to… but that hasn’t stopped her from squirming and trying her best to stretch out in there! I’m still very thankful she’s active, but I am not enjoying her recent activity as much as I did in the beginning. I have felt much more movement lower down, even though she hasn't committed to dropping yet. And I am feeling some cramping from time to time... usually it's not very painful. But from what the doc said last week, that's what I want to feel. Her movements make my ribs hurt though. Even when she isn't pressing against them, they feel kind of sore thanks to the continuous pushing she tends to do.
Sleeping is becoming something that only happens every other day or so. I typically fall asleep with no problems, but several times a week, I have problems falling back asleep after getting up to use the bathroom during the middle of the night. I have had several nights where I lay in the bed for 3 hours or so without being able to sleep… and the tendency is for that to happen every other night during the week. This pattern of course doesn’t help me out. I’m already tired and not sleeping makes me a little more on edge than I would be otherwise.
The swelling also continues. My feet and ankles have been particularly puffy lately. And my poor fingers continue to be sore from the extra fluid that has taken residency in my knuckles. But I know the end is in sight! I even got a preview of it this morning! Yesterday, I wore tennis shoes all afternoon and evening (I even had to tighten the laces at one point). At small group, I kept my feet propped up on a stool the entire time I was there. And when I went to bed, I put 2 couch pillows under the sheets and kept my feet up all night. This morning… I woke up and looked down to find the skinniest ankles and feet I have seen in months! I was so excited about them I took pictures! For those who don’t understand… I’m posting the comparison of what I have been used to and what I have missed.
"the Norm" (these days)
"the missed"
I know that sweet pea could come anytime at this point. But I also know that first babies don’t tend to be early. However, I am holding on to the hope that maybe she’ll want to join the rest of us September babies and make her entrance into this world a few days early. Whenever she gets here, one thing's for sure… I’ll be ready and ecstatic to meet her!
As the next couple of weeks approach, I find myself wondering when she will make her debut. How and how long will labor and delivery go? What date and time will she choose to make her arrival? What will she look like – from hair and eye color to facial shape and hair length? How much will she weight and how long will she measure? I’m certainly ready to meet her!
I find myself thinking about the next steps too. Is there anything else that needs to be done before baby is born? Dusty would say that I have definitely been nesting in the last week or so. But when I’m cleaning and rearranging, I don’t know that it’s completely necessary. So, does that mean we’re ready!? I know that no one can really prepare us for what it will be like to be parents. It’s a huge life change… we know. But it’s not even something that can really be prepared because there are still so many unknowns.
I’m definitely a “type A” personality, so the waiting and unknown isn’t something that I’m a fan of by any means. But I am trying to tell myself to relax and let that whole control thing go… it’s not like I have much of a choice. I know that she will come when she’s ready; I would just like to have an idea of when that is going to be.
She certainly hasn’t calmed down in there at all! She obviously doesn’t have the space to kick and punch like she used to… but that hasn’t stopped her from squirming and trying her best to stretch out in there! I’m still very thankful she’s active, but I am not enjoying her recent activity as much as I did in the beginning. I have felt much more movement lower down, even though she hasn't committed to dropping yet. And I am feeling some cramping from time to time... usually it's not very painful. But from what the doc said last week, that's what I want to feel. Her movements make my ribs hurt though. Even when she isn't pressing against them, they feel kind of sore thanks to the continuous pushing she tends to do.
Sleeping is becoming something that only happens every other day or so. I typically fall asleep with no problems, but several times a week, I have problems falling back asleep after getting up to use the bathroom during the middle of the night. I have had several nights where I lay in the bed for 3 hours or so without being able to sleep… and the tendency is for that to happen every other night during the week. This pattern of course doesn’t help me out. I’m already tired and not sleeping makes me a little more on edge than I would be otherwise.
The swelling also continues. My feet and ankles have been particularly puffy lately. And my poor fingers continue to be sore from the extra fluid that has taken residency in my knuckles. But I know the end is in sight! I even got a preview of it this morning! Yesterday, I wore tennis shoes all afternoon and evening (I even had to tighten the laces at one point). At small group, I kept my feet propped up on a stool the entire time I was there. And when I went to bed, I put 2 couch pillows under the sheets and kept my feet up all night. This morning… I woke up and looked down to find the skinniest ankles and feet I have seen in months! I was so excited about them I took pictures! For those who don’t understand… I’m posting the comparison of what I have been used to and what I have missed.
"the Norm" (these days)
"the missed"
I know that sweet pea could come anytime at this point. But I also know that first babies don’t tend to be early. However, I am holding on to the hope that maybe she’ll want to join the rest of us September babies and make her entrance into this world a few days early. Whenever she gets here, one thing's for sure… I’ll be ready and ecstatic to meet her!
9.15.2010
37.5 Week Appt
This morning, the doctor’s office waiting room was only half full! There were a couple people ahead of me, but they were called back fairly quickly. So, the initial wait wasn’t that long. By 10:30, I had been called back to give the normal urine sample, weight, and blood pressure checked and had been asked to go back to the waiting room to wait for an exam room to open!
Again, the wait for a room wasn’t very long, but the wait for Dr. Shelley to come in was about the same. Dr. Shelley came in and let me know that the strep culture came back negative (so no antibiotics during delivery) and asked me if I was planning on getting a flu shot soon… I told her I was going this Friday. She just reminded me of the importance of protecting me and the baby with it, but that it was necessary to get it 2 weeks before she gets here.
She then measured and commented that we were all the way up there (I guess that’s normal/good). And the baby’s heartbeat sounded strong and steady (as usual) with the Doppler! I thought that she would check to see if my cervix had softened or if I had dilated any, but she said that she would check me next week. Before leaving, she asked had been having any contractions or cramping. I told her that I wasn’t sure about contractions (at least not anything painful yet), but yesterday I had a pretty bad cramp for about 20 seconds in my pelvic area. Dr. Shelley told me that was a good sign! She explained that small cramping is usually how the cervix ripens (softens), and especially with first babies, you want to feel small cramping in the lower abdomen area instead of the intense all-over contractions that don’t do much to soften the cervix. One more good thing she mentioned was that she thought the baby's head was down because her heart rate was found lower on my belly… to which I commented that I was pretty sure her rear was just under my ribs. She laughed because she experienced the same thing, with kicking and movement on the right side of her body. We joked about sitting with our hand(s) resting just under our ribs for the majority of the day because of those movements and at least attempting to keep them under control!
But that was it. I have an appointment scheduled for next Thursday September 23 (the first day of fall and the next full moon) at the Anderson office (which is also at the hospital)! I would love to walk in and hear that I’ve dilated enough to be admitted and have the baby, but I’ll try to keep myself in reality and know that it’s not very likely! Until then, we continue to wait for Sweet Pea to arrive!
Again, the wait for a room wasn’t very long, but the wait for Dr. Shelley to come in was about the same. Dr. Shelley came in and let me know that the strep culture came back negative (so no antibiotics during delivery) and asked me if I was planning on getting a flu shot soon… I told her I was going this Friday. She just reminded me of the importance of protecting me and the baby with it, but that it was necessary to get it 2 weeks before she gets here.
She then measured and commented that we were all the way up there (I guess that’s normal/good). And the baby’s heartbeat sounded strong and steady (as usual) with the Doppler! I thought that she would check to see if my cervix had softened or if I had dilated any, but she said that she would check me next week. Before leaving, she asked had been having any contractions or cramping. I told her that I wasn’t sure about contractions (at least not anything painful yet), but yesterday I had a pretty bad cramp for about 20 seconds in my pelvic area. Dr. Shelley told me that was a good sign! She explained that small cramping is usually how the cervix ripens (softens), and especially with first babies, you want to feel small cramping in the lower abdomen area instead of the intense all-over contractions that don’t do much to soften the cervix. One more good thing she mentioned was that she thought the baby's head was down because her heart rate was found lower on my belly… to which I commented that I was pretty sure her rear was just under my ribs. She laughed because she experienced the same thing, with kicking and movement on the right side of her body. We joked about sitting with our hand(s) resting just under our ribs for the majority of the day because of those movements and at least attempting to keep them under control!
But that was it. I have an appointment scheduled for next Thursday September 23 (the first day of fall and the next full moon) at the Anderson office (which is also at the hospital)! I would love to walk in and hear that I’ve dilated enough to be admitted and have the baby, but I’ll try to keep myself in reality and know that it’s not very likely! Until then, we continue to wait for Sweet Pea to arrive!
9.08.2010
Baby and belly update!
To start with... I guess I could update the world on last week's doctor's appointment. The wait was longer than normal... so bad that they took me back to check my weight, b/p, and get a urine sample, and then sent me back to wait some more. This was the dreaded strep b test too. So, they did that... which was definitely NOT pleasant! Other than that... I am still measuring where I'm supposed to be, and the baby's heart rate still sounds good and steady.
For the second appointment in a row, I had questions about some symptoms that I have had. I have started to wake up during the night and in the mornings with pretty bad pain in my fingers. I would guess it's almost like arthritis in my knuckles (even though I am not really sure what that feels like). So, I asked if that was normal... and come to find out – it is! Dr. Shelley told me that it was possible I was experiencing carpal tunnel (brought on by pregnancy). She shared that she had it when she was pregnant and that it got so bad that she had to have injections in her wrists because she couldn’t feel her fingers. She suggested that I sleep in wrist braces at night. I tried to explain that I hadn’t lost feeling in my fingers, I just had really sore joints (much worse in the mornings but as the day went on, they got better). She said that it was possible that it was just from the fluid that was pooling in my hands. And that if that was the case, massage would really be the only thing that would help it. So, her final words were to try the braces and we would check on it at the next appointment. Well, as much fun as it sounds like to buy and try braces that may not even help, I decided to try sleeping in an ace bandage one night to test out her theory. If it helped, I would be willing to get the braces, but why spend money on something that might not work. Good thing I went that route! I woke up during the night to use the bathroom (as usual), and my fingers were so swollen on the hand in the bandage that I could barely make a fist. And you talk about pain… it was much worse than the hand that wasn’t wrapped. So, I have self diagnosed that it’s just the fluid that is causing them to ache. And I’ll just have to suck it up! The good news (according to Dr. Shelley) is that in 4-6 weeks, I won’t have that problem anymore.
Baby has been kind of crazy lately! At least, she’s been making my belly look like it’s holding an alien in there! I no longer find it “fun” or even comfortable to feel her moving around. She is getting kind of rough on my insides, and as she runs out of space to move around, I find her trying to push (or kick) out of my right side – just under my ribs. There seems to be a foot about half way down my rib cage that won’t stay where I try to encourage her to keep it. And a big rounded something (my guess is her backside), sits slightly to the right just under my chest bone most of the time, gets shoved into my ribs and often times it makes me short of breath as she tries to stretch. Obviously she hasn't figured out that my side is NOT an exit. But it makes me feel good to think that she is at least wanting out!
I never understood women who wanted their child to be born early. It was mind-blowing to me when women mentioned wanting their body back and counting down the days more for the pregnancy to be over than for baby to actually be here. But in the last week or so, I have found that I am getting to that point. I would be perfectly fine (and happy) if this little one decided to arrive early (as her mom, aunt, and dad did) – even though I know it’s not likely. And while I wouldn’t say that I am looking forward to the pregnancy being over more than I am to welcoming baby… I am ready for my body back. I’m ready to sleep and move around easier again. And this morning was the first time I thought to myself just how exciting it would be to wear my normal clothes again (even though I know it may not be for a while still)!
From what I hear from others, it’s normal to feel this way (so that’s good). So with 3.5 weeks until d-day, I can confidently say I’m ready! But while I wait, I guess we could finish up the nursery and getting the house ready (more on that next time).
Until then… here are updated belly shots (as requested) from 30 and 36 weeks.
For the second appointment in a row, I had questions about some symptoms that I have had. I have started to wake up during the night and in the mornings with pretty bad pain in my fingers. I would guess it's almost like arthritis in my knuckles (even though I am not really sure what that feels like). So, I asked if that was normal... and come to find out – it is! Dr. Shelley told me that it was possible I was experiencing carpal tunnel (brought on by pregnancy). She shared that she had it when she was pregnant and that it got so bad that she had to have injections in her wrists because she couldn’t feel her fingers. She suggested that I sleep in wrist braces at night. I tried to explain that I hadn’t lost feeling in my fingers, I just had really sore joints (much worse in the mornings but as the day went on, they got better). She said that it was possible that it was just from the fluid that was pooling in my hands. And that if that was the case, massage would really be the only thing that would help it. So, her final words were to try the braces and we would check on it at the next appointment. Well, as much fun as it sounds like to buy and try braces that may not even help, I decided to try sleeping in an ace bandage one night to test out her theory. If it helped, I would be willing to get the braces, but why spend money on something that might not work. Good thing I went that route! I woke up during the night to use the bathroom (as usual), and my fingers were so swollen on the hand in the bandage that I could barely make a fist. And you talk about pain… it was much worse than the hand that wasn’t wrapped. So, I have self diagnosed that it’s just the fluid that is causing them to ache. And I’ll just have to suck it up! The good news (according to Dr. Shelley) is that in 4-6 weeks, I won’t have that problem anymore.
Baby has been kind of crazy lately! At least, she’s been making my belly look like it’s holding an alien in there! I no longer find it “fun” or even comfortable to feel her moving around. She is getting kind of rough on my insides, and as she runs out of space to move around, I find her trying to push (or kick) out of my right side – just under my ribs. There seems to be a foot about half way down my rib cage that won’t stay where I try to encourage her to keep it. And a big rounded something (my guess is her backside), sits slightly to the right just under my chest bone most of the time, gets shoved into my ribs and often times it makes me short of breath as she tries to stretch. Obviously she hasn't figured out that my side is NOT an exit. But it makes me feel good to think that she is at least wanting out!
I never understood women who wanted their child to be born early. It was mind-blowing to me when women mentioned wanting their body back and counting down the days more for the pregnancy to be over than for baby to actually be here. But in the last week or so, I have found that I am getting to that point. I would be perfectly fine (and happy) if this little one decided to arrive early (as her mom, aunt, and dad did) – even though I know it’s not likely. And while I wouldn’t say that I am looking forward to the pregnancy being over more than I am to welcoming baby… I am ready for my body back. I’m ready to sleep and move around easier again. And this morning was the first time I thought to myself just how exciting it would be to wear my normal clothes again (even though I know it may not be for a while still)!
From what I hear from others, it’s normal to feel this way (so that’s good). So with 3.5 weeks until d-day, I can confidently say I’m ready! But while I wait, I guess we could finish up the nursery and getting the house ready (more on that next time).
Until then… here are updated belly shots (as requested) from 30 and 36 weeks.
9.03.2010
So much to say... so little time.
I have so many things that I would like to blog about. But the amount of things won't fit in the amount of time I have to blog. So, I'll do write what I can and try to write again soon about what I don't get to today.
NANCY CAROL HIGGINS: 9/21/1956 – 8/27/2010
I wanted to take a minute to say something about the loss of my dad’s sister, Nancy, last week. As I was getting ready to leave work, my cell phone kept ringing (2 calls from my dad, 1 from my sister who I had just spoken with about 30 minutes prior, and 1 from my mom). As I closed down my computer, I called my mom back, and she informed me that Aunt Nancy had drowned in Lake Gaston earlier that day. Even now, a full week later, I can’t really believe it.
Dusty and I had already planned to head up to Winston-Salem for the day to go to a baby shower (honoring us) on Saturday. So obviously our plans changed a little. As my family was coming together in Roanoke Rapids to mourn the unexpected loss of my aunt, we decided to join them after the shower. With service plans up in the air, we weren’t sure when we would make it back to SC, so we left the dogs with Dusty’s mom and went straight to my grandmother’s house.
It was nice to see my 2 uncles and my dad together again. I have tried, but I can’t remember the last time they were all together. But it was sad that it took something so drastic to bring them together again at my grandmother’s house. We stayed in Roanoke Rapids until Monday afternoon, when we decided we needed to come back to SC. Dusty had a big cookout on campus with Greek IV Tuesday night, and I had a doctor’s appointment on Wednesday morning. And the arrangements still weren’t set in stone, but we knew they would be at the end of the week. So, it really made the most sense for us to come home. The hardest part of leaving was probably knowing that I wouldn’t be able to come back for whatever arrangements were made.
As the week has progressed, I have spent more time thinking about Nancy. I have had some sad feelings over the loss, but I also have had sad feelings for her. I have heard some unsettling stories from this week in Roanoke Rapids involving family. And it’s sad to me that those stories are part of what she dealt with in her time on this earth. She didn’t have the happiest childhood, and she hasn’t had the most glamorous adulthood. But when I think of Nancy… I think of how beautiful she was... inside and out. She was really a stunning woman with small frame, long brown, curly hair, sparkling green eyes, and a picture-perfect smile. And she loved to pour love out! She loved family… especially her nieces and nephews, and she always wanted to be whatever people needed her to be. Nancy truly was beautiful, and I hope that people will remember the inside and out when they think of her.
Last night, the family received friends and family who knew Nancy. I was told by a couple of different people that there were a lot of people in attendance of the visitation. Although the obituary was very basic and made it seem like she didn’t have much family, the number of people that came out clearly showed that she was loved by many! Today, a service was held to celebrate her life. I have yet to speak with anyone at home to hear how it went, but I can imagine it was a beautiful as she was!
I’m sorry that I wasn’t able to make it to be a part of the celebration and the mourning with family. But today also marks us being 1 month away from our due date! And as much as I wish I could have been there, I know that it’s best for me (and sweet pea) to be here because the travel and emotional drain would have been too much for this pregnant girl to handle. I will certainly miss Nancy Higgins, and I’m sorry that sweet pea will never know her and that Nancy wasn’t able to meet her either. But I hope and pray that she will at least grow up hearing about her. And that somewhere along the way, I can show my baby girl how Nancy would have loved her and played with her. From makeup to dress up, Nancy was certainly a favorite to little girls who were blessed enough to know her!
NANCY CAROL HIGGINS: 9/21/1956 – 8/27/2010
I wanted to take a minute to say something about the loss of my dad’s sister, Nancy, last week. As I was getting ready to leave work, my cell phone kept ringing (2 calls from my dad, 1 from my sister who I had just spoken with about 30 minutes prior, and 1 from my mom). As I closed down my computer, I called my mom back, and she informed me that Aunt Nancy had drowned in Lake Gaston earlier that day. Even now, a full week later, I can’t really believe it.
Dusty and I had already planned to head up to Winston-Salem for the day to go to a baby shower (honoring us) on Saturday. So obviously our plans changed a little. As my family was coming together in Roanoke Rapids to mourn the unexpected loss of my aunt, we decided to join them after the shower. With service plans up in the air, we weren’t sure when we would make it back to SC, so we left the dogs with Dusty’s mom and went straight to my grandmother’s house.
It was nice to see my 2 uncles and my dad together again. I have tried, but I can’t remember the last time they were all together. But it was sad that it took something so drastic to bring them together again at my grandmother’s house. We stayed in Roanoke Rapids until Monday afternoon, when we decided we needed to come back to SC. Dusty had a big cookout on campus with Greek IV Tuesday night, and I had a doctor’s appointment on Wednesday morning. And the arrangements still weren’t set in stone, but we knew they would be at the end of the week. So, it really made the most sense for us to come home. The hardest part of leaving was probably knowing that I wouldn’t be able to come back for whatever arrangements were made.
As the week has progressed, I have spent more time thinking about Nancy. I have had some sad feelings over the loss, but I also have had sad feelings for her. I have heard some unsettling stories from this week in Roanoke Rapids involving family. And it’s sad to me that those stories are part of what she dealt with in her time on this earth. She didn’t have the happiest childhood, and she hasn’t had the most glamorous adulthood. But when I think of Nancy… I think of how beautiful she was... inside and out. She was really a stunning woman with small frame, long brown, curly hair, sparkling green eyes, and a picture-perfect smile. And she loved to pour love out! She loved family… especially her nieces and nephews, and she always wanted to be whatever people needed her to be. Nancy truly was beautiful, and I hope that people will remember the inside and out when they think of her.
Last night, the family received friends and family who knew Nancy. I was told by a couple of different people that there were a lot of people in attendance of the visitation. Although the obituary was very basic and made it seem like she didn’t have much family, the number of people that came out clearly showed that she was loved by many! Today, a service was held to celebrate her life. I have yet to speak with anyone at home to hear how it went, but I can imagine it was a beautiful as she was!
I’m sorry that I wasn’t able to make it to be a part of the celebration and the mourning with family. But today also marks us being 1 month away from our due date! And as much as I wish I could have been there, I know that it’s best for me (and sweet pea) to be here because the travel and emotional drain would have been too much for this pregnant girl to handle. I will certainly miss Nancy Higgins, and I’m sorry that sweet pea will never know her and that Nancy wasn’t able to meet her either. But I hope and pray that she will at least grow up hearing about her. And that somewhere along the way, I can show my baby girl how Nancy would have loved her and played with her. From makeup to dress up, Nancy was certainly a favorite to little girls who were blessed enough to know her!
8.25.2010
33-week Appt, Maternity Pics, and Baby Shower #1
I had my first bi-weekly appointment last week. Although the wait was longer than normal, the appointment itself wasn't. It was still pretty routine. The only real difference was this time when the nurse asked how I was feeling. Usually, my response is fine. But this time, I responded by telling her I had beed tired, and I had started to experience some swelling in my feet and ankles. So, when I finally got to see the doctor, she measured and listened (as usual), and then we discussed the swelling.
I had my first bi-weekly appointment last week. Although the wait was longer than normal, the appointment itself wasn't. It was still pretty routine. The only real difference was this time when the nurse asked how I was feeling. Usually, my response is fine. But this time, I responded by telling her I had been tired, and I had started to experience some swelling in my feet and ankles. So, when I finally got to see the doctor, she measured and listened (as usual), and then we discussed the swelling.
One thing I really like about my doctor is that she has been through it before, so she has practical experiences and advice to share. She had one of her sons on October 9, and she experienced the same swelling in her last month or so of her pregnancy. She told me that it's normal, and since my blood pressure was still normal, I didn't have anything to worry about as far as health goes. But she gave me several suggestions to help with the swelling. She mentioned the ones that I had heard several times before (drink lots and lots of water, prop your feet up at night, sleep on your left side, try to move around some during the day instead of sitting all day). But she also mentioned a few new suggestions. Apparently, if you tap your foot and keep your calf muscles moving, it will also keep the fluid moving throughout the body instead of allowing it to pool in the feet. She also said that I needed to wear shoes that would cover the top of my foot... by doing this, the fluid wouldn't be able to settle in my feet. However, it may start to settle in my ankles and calves instead. Hmm, just a thought, but I think I would rather have swollen feet than cankles! Dr. Shelley also warned me that the swelling could come back after the baby is born. So, if it happens, I shouldn't be alarmed, it's normal and will eventually go away. To help easy my worries, she said that she would continue to check it but that it really wasn’t anything to worry about at this point. At least she’s aware!
For the first time since Mother’s Day (and the last time before baby), I got to spend the weekend in Roanoke Rapids with family! It was nice to be “home” again, but it wasn’t what I would have called the most restful weekend. Saturday was a very busy day, but it was both productive and love-filled.
It all started with Dusty and I having some maternity photos taken by my cousin. We had done some research of different poses that we liked, and the night before, we came up with an idea of where to go and what poses to do at each location. With that in mind, we were under the impression it wouldn’t take very long to knock it out. Well, the wardrobe changes and the travel time between locations helped to extend out the time it took to get them done. Thanks to my cousin Warrie for being patient with me in my grumpy spells. I know that being in the heat didn't bring out the best in me. But she did great, and I think that there are some great pictures! Some of our favorites are posted on facebook (you can try this link). After finally getting some lunch and resting a little in the A/C, it was time to get ready for my first baby shower!
My sister was the official hostess (I think), but my mom, grandma, and aunts all pitched in. The room looked great… with the absolute cutest “sweet pea” cake and most useful, beautiful diaper cake I think I’ve ever seen! There was a great turn out too. I had friends and colleagues that I had worked with when I lived in Roanoke Rapids along with family (close and extended) and family friends. We were blessed with everything from a bassinet to a stroller/car seat set and everything in between (bouncy seat, carriers, clothes, diapers, and some toys). This little girl is going to be set! And we felt so loved and cared for by the amount of things people were kind enough to get us. Now, I just have to work on getting out all those thank you notes!
Before wrapping it up, I might as well add a little baby update. I don’t know if I have mentioned this or not, but sweet pea has been hanging out on my right side. I don’t know if that’s something that is normal or not. But that’s what she does. At night, and sometimes during the day, there is a bulge on the right side of my stomach. I often feel boney nudges under the ribs on my right side too. And in the last few days, it’s as though she is pushing herself out as much as possible. I have heard that it’s good that she’s active, but her movements aren’t the most comfortable things to feel all the time. And at times, I notice that I feel short of breath… thanks to sweet pea of course! I am obviously thankful for an active, healthy baby. But I must admit that at this point… if she wanted to come on out, I’d be good with it. :)
I had my first bi-weekly appointment last week. Although the wait was longer than normal, the appointment itself wasn't. It was still pretty routine. The only real difference was this time when the nurse asked how I was feeling. Usually, my response is fine. But this time, I responded by telling her I had been tired, and I had started to experience some swelling in my feet and ankles. So, when I finally got to see the doctor, she measured and listened (as usual), and then we discussed the swelling.
One thing I really like about my doctor is that she has been through it before, so she has practical experiences and advice to share. She had one of her sons on October 9, and she experienced the same swelling in her last month or so of her pregnancy. She told me that it's normal, and since my blood pressure was still normal, I didn't have anything to worry about as far as health goes. But she gave me several suggestions to help with the swelling. She mentioned the ones that I had heard several times before (drink lots and lots of water, prop your feet up at night, sleep on your left side, try to move around some during the day instead of sitting all day). But she also mentioned a few new suggestions. Apparently, if you tap your foot and keep your calf muscles moving, it will also keep the fluid moving throughout the body instead of allowing it to pool in the feet. She also said that I needed to wear shoes that would cover the top of my foot... by doing this, the fluid wouldn't be able to settle in my feet. However, it may start to settle in my ankles and calves instead. Hmm, just a thought, but I think I would rather have swollen feet than cankles! Dr. Shelley also warned me that the swelling could come back after the baby is born. So, if it happens, I shouldn't be alarmed, it's normal and will eventually go away. To help easy my worries, she said that she would continue to check it but that it really wasn’t anything to worry about at this point. At least she’s aware!
For the first time since Mother’s Day (and the last time before baby), I got to spend the weekend in Roanoke Rapids with family! It was nice to be “home” again, but it wasn’t what I would have called the most restful weekend. Saturday was a very busy day, but it was both productive and love-filled.
It all started with Dusty and I having some maternity photos taken by my cousin. We had done some research of different poses that we liked, and the night before, we came up with an idea of where to go and what poses to do at each location. With that in mind, we were under the impression it wouldn’t take very long to knock it out. Well, the wardrobe changes and the travel time between locations helped to extend out the time it took to get them done. Thanks to my cousin Warrie for being patient with me in my grumpy spells. I know that being in the heat didn't bring out the best in me. But she did great, and I think that there are some great pictures! Some of our favorites are posted on facebook (you can try this link). After finally getting some lunch and resting a little in the A/C, it was time to get ready for my first baby shower!
My sister was the official hostess (I think), but my mom, grandma, and aunts all pitched in. The room looked great… with the absolute cutest “sweet pea” cake and most useful, beautiful diaper cake I think I’ve ever seen! There was a great turn out too. I had friends and colleagues that I had worked with when I lived in Roanoke Rapids along with family (close and extended) and family friends. We were blessed with everything from a bassinet to a stroller/car seat set and everything in between (bouncy seat, carriers, clothes, diapers, and some toys). This little girl is going to be set! And we felt so loved and cared for by the amount of things people were kind enough to get us. Now, I just have to work on getting out all those thank you notes!
Before wrapping it up, I might as well add a little baby update. I don’t know if I have mentioned this or not, but sweet pea has been hanging out on my right side. I don’t know if that’s something that is normal or not. But that’s what she does. At night, and sometimes during the day, there is a bulge on the right side of my stomach. I often feel boney nudges under the ribs on my right side too. And in the last few days, it’s as though she is pushing herself out as much as possible. I have heard that it’s good that she’s active, but her movements aren’t the most comfortable things to feel all the time. And at times, I notice that I feel short of breath… thanks to sweet pea of course! I am obviously thankful for an active, healthy baby. But I must admit that at this point… if she wanted to come on out, I’d be good with it. :)
8.13.2010
Wedding, Vacation, and Swelling... (not necessarily in that order)
This past weekend, we were honored to be a part of an amazing event! Two Clemson Greek IV alum were married at Pawleys Island. Dusty was asked to read scripture in the wedding, so we got to see part of the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. The couple (Robert and Adrienne) met and served on the Greek IV leadership team. So, it was cool to be there as they joined their lives together. But the love that they both share for the Lord and for each other spoke volumes to those in attendance.
The rehearsal was a normal rehearsal... complete with emotions and run throughs for the next days wedding. But the rehearsal dinner was a little different. Since the rehearsal ran over a little, and the rain maybe held a few people up, we started nearly an hour late. They also had an after rehearsal party planned (after the dinner). So, we started dinner and about half way in they started toasting. The cool thing was just about everyone who stood up to speak spoke of the witness that their relationship had been. People spoke of the amount of love they shared, but also the amount of love that they each shared for the Lord. It was really quite moving to be in a room where the Spirit was so clearly there. And it was amazing to see how two young people uniting their lives together had touched the lives of their family and friends so deeply! The wedding the next day was absolutely breath-taking. The service, the dresses, the decor, the reception, the couple... everything was simply stunning. And like I said before, it truly was an honor to have been a part of it.
Since we were traveling about 4 hours to get to Pawleys for the wedding, we decided we might as well make a vacation out of it! Our thoughts were that we haven't had a real vacation this summer (certainly not at the beach) and this will be the last opportunity to really vacation before the baby gets here! So, with that in mind... we headed to the wedding festivities with the "vacation" mindset. We were fortunate to stay at the home of a different Greek IV alum. The Poston family were extremely gracious and made sure we were well fed and provided for the entire time we stayed with them. They even offered to let us stay at their home for the few days we planned on staying after the wedding. But we had already made reservations and paid for a hotel, and we didn't want to impose on them, so we thanked them and spent the remainder of our time alone.
We really enjoyed our time at the beach (even if we did come back with some pretty bad sunburn). And before we left the Postons, we were given a gift certificate for 2 free boat tour passes. So, before we left on Tuesday... we enjoyed a boat tour of some plantations and were then dropped off on the lighthouse island to explore and collect shells. Dusty went out in hopes of finding TONS of sand dollars, but he came back with several big conch shells! I was impressed with his findings! And although it was pretty hot outside... it was a fun (free) way to wrap up our time at the beach.
Finally, as previewed in the title... swelling. I think I mentioned some swelling in the camp post. So, it's not something that is completely new to this pregnancy. However, the swelling that has started happening over the past week has been pretty miserable (to look at mainly). I have had some slight swelling in the afternoons, but usually by the next morning (after sleeping on my left side and propping my feet up) it's gone. Well, since this past wedding weekend... it hasn't really gone away. The swelling is primarily happening in my feet and ankles (and somewhat into my calves -- suddenly cankles comes to mind). And while it goes down some at night... it isn't going away! And it's getting worse as the days go by. I have read that I should drink lots of fluids to help flush out the water my body is retaining, but that hasn't helped. I have also read that propping up my feet when sitting and moving around some should help... but it doesn't. I even called the doctor today because I was worried about it... and the nurse said it's normal but there isn't much you can do. So, I guess I will ask the doctor when I see her on Wednesday. A little swelling is one thing... but I don't think this is normal!
Otherwise, the baby is still moving all the time and other than being tired... I feel fine. Let's just hope with a weekend ahead and rest (hopefully) in my future this too will pass! :)
The rehearsal was a normal rehearsal... complete with emotions and run throughs for the next days wedding. But the rehearsal dinner was a little different. Since the rehearsal ran over a little, and the rain maybe held a few people up, we started nearly an hour late. They also had an after rehearsal party planned (after the dinner). So, we started dinner and about half way in they started toasting. The cool thing was just about everyone who stood up to speak spoke of the witness that their relationship had been. People spoke of the amount of love they shared, but also the amount of love that they each shared for the Lord. It was really quite moving to be in a room where the Spirit was so clearly there. And it was amazing to see how two young people uniting their lives together had touched the lives of their family and friends so deeply! The wedding the next day was absolutely breath-taking. The service, the dresses, the decor, the reception, the couple... everything was simply stunning. And like I said before, it truly was an honor to have been a part of it.
Since we were traveling about 4 hours to get to Pawleys for the wedding, we decided we might as well make a vacation out of it! Our thoughts were that we haven't had a real vacation this summer (certainly not at the beach) and this will be the last opportunity to really vacation before the baby gets here! So, with that in mind... we headed to the wedding festivities with the "vacation" mindset. We were fortunate to stay at the home of a different Greek IV alum. The Poston family were extremely gracious and made sure we were well fed and provided for the entire time we stayed with them. They even offered to let us stay at their home for the few days we planned on staying after the wedding. But we had already made reservations and paid for a hotel, and we didn't want to impose on them, so we thanked them and spent the remainder of our time alone.
We really enjoyed our time at the beach (even if we did come back with some pretty bad sunburn). And before we left the Postons, we were given a gift certificate for 2 free boat tour passes. So, before we left on Tuesday... we enjoyed a boat tour of some plantations and were then dropped off on the lighthouse island to explore and collect shells. Dusty went out in hopes of finding TONS of sand dollars, but he came back with several big conch shells! I was impressed with his findings! And although it was pretty hot outside... it was a fun (free) way to wrap up our time at the beach.
Finally, as previewed in the title... swelling. I think I mentioned some swelling in the camp post. So, it's not something that is completely new to this pregnancy. However, the swelling that has started happening over the past week has been pretty miserable (to look at mainly). I have had some slight swelling in the afternoons, but usually by the next morning (after sleeping on my left side and propping my feet up) it's gone. Well, since this past wedding weekend... it hasn't really gone away. The swelling is primarily happening in my feet and ankles (and somewhat into my calves -- suddenly cankles comes to mind). And while it goes down some at night... it isn't going away! And it's getting worse as the days go by. I have read that I should drink lots of fluids to help flush out the water my body is retaining, but that hasn't helped. I have also read that propping up my feet when sitting and moving around some should help... but it doesn't. I even called the doctor today because I was worried about it... and the nurse said it's normal but there isn't much you can do. So, I guess I will ask the doctor when I see her on Wednesday. A little swelling is one thing... but I don't think this is normal!
Otherwise, the baby is still moving all the time and other than being tired... I feel fine. Let's just hope with a weekend ahead and rest (hopefully) in my future this too will pass! :)
8.04.2010
She's found my rib cage!
That's right -- sweet pea has found a new place to play. And my rib cage is not happy about it! It's been going on for probably 2 or 3 weeks now, but it's not something I expect to "get used to" anytime soon (or ever). And from what the doctor said today... it will only get worse. PERFECT! The cool thing though is that I have started being able to feel her. Not like, I feel her moving, but when she jabs her little heel (I think) into my rib cage, I can push on my belly and feel a hard spot where she is. When we were at camp, I was pretty excited to her her press her entire body against my hands as I rested. So, while it isn't the most comfortable feeling in the world, it's really rather amazing to actually feel her!
So like I said, I had another doctor's appointment this morning. I have decided that it doesn’t really matter how early my appointments are, there will still be a good amount of waiting time regardless of the location. I guess it’s something I should come to expect. But I think the Clemson location seems to move a little faster than the Anderson location -- which was good for me since my appointment was in Clemson this morning. Either way, my appointments are pretty routine at this point.
I got called back on time. And like every other appointment, I gave a urine sample before having my weight and blood pressure checked. According to the nurse, everything seemed fine. She asked if I have been having any problems, and as usual… I answered no. She gave me a few handouts on 3rd trimester and labor & delivery information to read over before taking me to an exam room to wait for Dr. Shelley.
When Dr. Shelley came in, she started by measuring my belly (around 32 centimeters). I guess it doesn’t matter that the baby isn’t in the middle of my stomach during the measuring process, because it was very clear that she was laying on the right side of my stomach. Anyways... next Dr. Shelley got the gel and Doppler ready! Sweet pea’s heartbeat was heard right away (no searching required)… it sounded strong and very steady.
Dr. Shelley briefly mentioned the handouts I had gotten and said that if I had any questions after reading over everything to simply let her know. She also scheduled my next set of appointments for every 2 weeks for the next 6 weeks. At the end of those appointments, I will be 37 weeks along (which is really hard to believe)!
As I said earlier I mentioned that the baby had found my rib cage, and she told me that I would probably start to get sore from the inside out as the baby continues to get bigger and starts running out of space! I told her that my belly button area had been sore from time to time, and she said that was normal, and it would probably get worse before it was over. But she reaffirmed that it was normal, and it’s just one of those things that we get to go through.
That was it – basic and relatively quick. My next appointment has been scheduled for August 18 (my mom’s birthday). Then… we have 2 more in September before going to every week appointments after my birthday! Time is flying by, and thankfully we're still doing well!
So like I said, I had another doctor's appointment this morning. I have decided that it doesn’t really matter how early my appointments are, there will still be a good amount of waiting time regardless of the location. I guess it’s something I should come to expect. But I think the Clemson location seems to move a little faster than the Anderson location -- which was good for me since my appointment was in Clemson this morning. Either way, my appointments are pretty routine at this point.
I got called back on time. And like every other appointment, I gave a urine sample before having my weight and blood pressure checked. According to the nurse, everything seemed fine. She asked if I have been having any problems, and as usual… I answered no. She gave me a few handouts on 3rd trimester and labor & delivery information to read over before taking me to an exam room to wait for Dr. Shelley.
When Dr. Shelley came in, she started by measuring my belly (around 32 centimeters). I guess it doesn’t matter that the baby isn’t in the middle of my stomach during the measuring process, because it was very clear that she was laying on the right side of my stomach. Anyways... next Dr. Shelley got the gel and Doppler ready! Sweet pea’s heartbeat was heard right away (no searching required)… it sounded strong and very steady.
Dr. Shelley briefly mentioned the handouts I had gotten and said that if I had any questions after reading over everything to simply let her know. She also scheduled my next set of appointments for every 2 weeks for the next 6 weeks. At the end of those appointments, I will be 37 weeks along (which is really hard to believe)!
As I said earlier I mentioned that the baby had found my rib cage, and she told me that I would probably start to get sore from the inside out as the baby continues to get bigger and starts running out of space! I told her that my belly button area had been sore from time to time, and she said that was normal, and it would probably get worse before it was over. But she reaffirmed that it was normal, and it’s just one of those things that we get to go through.
That was it – basic and relatively quick. My next appointment has been scheduled for August 18 (my mom’s birthday). Then… we have 2 more in September before going to every week appointments after my birthday! Time is flying by, and thankfully we're still doing well!
8.03.2010
Oh you can't get to heaven cross the Brooklyn Bridge... you've gotta cross the dam at Laurel Ridge!
I thought about waiting to post until tomorrow (since I have a doctor’s appointment in the morning), but I decided I would go ahead and at least update on the past several weeks. And tomorrow, if I have the time, I will update on the doctor’s appointment in a separate post.
Since my last post… Dusty and I went on our annual “vacation” to Laurel Ridge for Sr. High camp. This year was obviously a little different than the past 5 years we’ve been on the mountain… since I’m now 7 months pregnant!
I had been given some great advice before heading up the mountain from a girl who had been there the previous month (who was also 7 months along in her pregnancy). So, I felt pretty prepared. But family and friends telling me I was tough (or crazy) for thinking about it made me a little anxious. The heat factor was something that I was extremely worried about ahead of time too! I mean, it’s typically 10 degrees cooler on the mountain than here in Clemson or in Winston, but even in the 80s… living without air conditioning for a week of your pregnancy isn’t something that most people willingly put themselves through. I was determined to be there though!
I was told ahead of time that I wouldn’t have a small group. Brad was looking out for me, and while I wasn’t exactly excited about that at first… it really ended up being a blessing! I didn’t sleep well – thanks to several factors like snoring cabin mates, constantly being hot, uncomfortable beds, and sweet pea thought it would be fun to play after lights out. So, not having a small group allowed me to have a morning nap time every morning! My campers were pretty quiet during free time too. So, again, there was a little extra time devoted to making up for sleep from the night before. The heat wasn’t THAT bad… until probably Thursday or so. And even then… it was bearable sitting outside in the shade.
It was great to be on the mountain though. The counseling staff got along well together. And it makes my heart happy to see familiar faces and spend time with friends that I miss. Everyone agreed that the campers this year were great. Above all… God was clearly present at Sr. High Camp.
Laurel Ridge is such a significant place to us. Laurel Ridge is the place where we met. It’s the place that we both came to a year later, open to God’s call on our lives and simply ready to serve and ended the summer together. It was on the same mountain that Dusty asked me to marry him. And no matter how crazy a week at camp seems, it’s the place we return every summer to refuel and give back.
Dusty and I joked about how sweet pea will be able to say that she has been coming to camp since she was in the womb! And my prayer as I look back at the time we have shared there – this summer and in the years past – is that it will continue to bring joy and life to our growing family and others that get to experience the mountain top experience of being that much closer to God. As one counselor so clearly puts it… God lives at Laurel Ridge!
Since my last post… Dusty and I went on our annual “vacation” to Laurel Ridge for Sr. High camp. This year was obviously a little different than the past 5 years we’ve been on the mountain… since I’m now 7 months pregnant!
I had been given some great advice before heading up the mountain from a girl who had been there the previous month (who was also 7 months along in her pregnancy). So, I felt pretty prepared. But family and friends telling me I was tough (or crazy) for thinking about it made me a little anxious. The heat factor was something that I was extremely worried about ahead of time too! I mean, it’s typically 10 degrees cooler on the mountain than here in Clemson or in Winston, but even in the 80s… living without air conditioning for a week of your pregnancy isn’t something that most people willingly put themselves through. I was determined to be there though!
I was told ahead of time that I wouldn’t have a small group. Brad was looking out for me, and while I wasn’t exactly excited about that at first… it really ended up being a blessing! I didn’t sleep well – thanks to several factors like snoring cabin mates, constantly being hot, uncomfortable beds, and sweet pea thought it would be fun to play after lights out. So, not having a small group allowed me to have a morning nap time every morning! My campers were pretty quiet during free time too. So, again, there was a little extra time devoted to making up for sleep from the night before. The heat wasn’t THAT bad… until probably Thursday or so. And even then… it was bearable sitting outside in the shade.
It was great to be on the mountain though. The counseling staff got along well together. And it makes my heart happy to see familiar faces and spend time with friends that I miss. Everyone agreed that the campers this year were great. Above all… God was clearly present at Sr. High Camp.
Laurel Ridge is such a significant place to us. Laurel Ridge is the place where we met. It’s the place that we both came to a year later, open to God’s call on our lives and simply ready to serve and ended the summer together. It was on the same mountain that Dusty asked me to marry him. And no matter how crazy a week at camp seems, it’s the place we return every summer to refuel and give back.
Dusty and I joked about how sweet pea will be able to say that she has been coming to camp since she was in the womb! And my prayer as I look back at the time we have shared there – this summer and in the years past – is that it will continue to bring joy and life to our growing family and others that get to experience the mountain top experience of being that much closer to God. As one counselor so clearly puts it… God lives at Laurel Ridge!
7.13.2010
28-week Appt
This will be relatively short.
I had normal prenatal doctor's appointment this morning. My blood pressure was low (that's good), my weight had increased (I guess that's good), my belly measured 29 cm (which is a cm ahead of the week I'm on... so that's normal), and the baby's heart was steady (that's great).
I also learned that my glucose screen came back just fine. And my iron count was excellent. The doctor wondered if I was taking suppliments or craving red meat since my blood count hadn't really dropped like most women's tend to do. Lucky for me, my prenatal vitamins from Walmart (along with my normal diet) are working wonders for my iron!
Next appointment will be in 3 weeks... from that point on, my appointments will come every 2 weeks until the last month I think (when they will be scheduled every week).
So, I guess that just proves that the beginning of the third trimester is going well for me and our sweet pea! :)
I had normal prenatal doctor's appointment this morning. My blood pressure was low (that's good), my weight had increased (I guess that's good), my belly measured 29 cm (which is a cm ahead of the week I'm on... so that's normal), and the baby's heart was steady (that's great).
I also learned that my glucose screen came back just fine. And my iron count was excellent. The doctor wondered if I was taking suppliments or craving red meat since my blood count hadn't really dropped like most women's tend to do. Lucky for me, my prenatal vitamins from Walmart (along with my normal diet) are working wonders for my iron!
Next appointment will be in 3 weeks... from that point on, my appointments will come every 2 weeks until the last month I think (when they will be scheduled every week).
So, I guess that just proves that the beginning of the third trimester is going well for me and our sweet pea! :)
7.12.2010
Childbirth Education Class
Saturday, Dusty and I attended our childbirth education class. The classes are not a requirement, but since this is our first child, and since we don’t have much of a clue about the labor and delivery process or newborn care... I thought it would be in the best interest of our child (and our sanity) to take the class.
The options for taking classes included... 4 weekly classes that met on either Tuesday or Thursday nights OR an all day Saturday class. Because of our busy schedule, we decided that the Saturday session would work out much better for us. So, we showed up to AnMed (the hospital where we plan on having our baby) at 9:00 to be informed on whatever they thought we should know. We didn't have a real idea as to what to expect. I knew that a tour of the "labor and delivery" hall and the "mom& baby unit" would be included, but I wasn't sure what information we would be told. So, with little real expectations, I would say that it was a good class.
The instructor informed us on all kinds of things from the anatomy of pregnancy, to different interventions that may be used during the labor and delivery process, to infant care. We learned about the signs of labor and went over when to go and when to wait. Having never done this before... it was great information and extremely helpful! We also watched 2 birth videos -- 1 of a woman giving natural birth and 1 of a hospital delivery (including the use pain medications and an episiotomy). Although the videos weren't the most "pleasant" things to watch... getting some ideas about pain management techniques (as opposed to drugs) was quite helpful since at this point, it's my preference to not have pain meds.
The tour of the hospital rooms was one of my favorite parts of the day. We went into a labor & delivery room, and a nurse came in and explained the equipment in the room and the "rules" as to what is allowed and what is not (examples include cameras are allowed, but no videos can be taken of any medical procedure). It was helpful to just be in the room ahead of time, and the nurse showed us the way that the bed maneuvers and lights position and change for the delivery. It was also nice to walk from the delivery room, past the nursery (which will be baby's next stop), to the mom and baby unit where we will spend the remainder of our time.
The infant care section was especially helpful. I mean, I have held a newborn, and I have fed a newborn, and I changed many a diapers... but there are things that I haven't done with babies. So, I was very appreciative to be shown how to sponge bathe a baby and told how often this should be done. It was also helpful to hear about different skin conditions that babies may naturally have so that we don't freak out over everything that may not seem normal to us! While I have at least a little experience with babies, Dusty does not. So, even if he doesn't admit it, I think he was glad that he attended the class to see how you hold a baby and change a diaper (we will probably practice this at home some before she arrives). And I hope that he at least feels a little more comfortable with what his role in the delivery room is going to be as a coach.
I would say that besides being pretty informative... it has made us think a little more about what we would like to happen. We obviously know that we can't really "plan" the delivery, but we can have preferences. And making a birth plan is something that we will be thinking about over the next couple of months, so that, when the time comes, we are prepared to at least speak up and have an opinion about the whole thing.
It's hard to believe... but I'm now only 12 weeks away from my due date! The third trimester is officially here, and glancing at the busy calendar ahead of us, I am sure that the next several weeks will fly by! It's certainly exciting, and at times a little overwhelming. But regardless of if we feel ready or not, we are definitely looking forward to meeting our little sweet pea whenever she decides to arrive! :)
The options for taking classes included... 4 weekly classes that met on either Tuesday or Thursday nights OR an all day Saturday class. Because of our busy schedule, we decided that the Saturday session would work out much better for us. So, we showed up to AnMed (the hospital where we plan on having our baby) at 9:00 to be informed on whatever they thought we should know. We didn't have a real idea as to what to expect. I knew that a tour of the "labor and delivery" hall and the "mom& baby unit" would be included, but I wasn't sure what information we would be told. So, with little real expectations, I would say that it was a good class.
The instructor informed us on all kinds of things from the anatomy of pregnancy, to different interventions that may be used during the labor and delivery process, to infant care. We learned about the signs of labor and went over when to go and when to wait. Having never done this before... it was great information and extremely helpful! We also watched 2 birth videos -- 1 of a woman giving natural birth and 1 of a hospital delivery (including the use pain medications and an episiotomy). Although the videos weren't the most "pleasant" things to watch... getting some ideas about pain management techniques (as opposed to drugs) was quite helpful since at this point, it's my preference to not have pain meds.
The tour of the hospital rooms was one of my favorite parts of the day. We went into a labor & delivery room, and a nurse came in and explained the equipment in the room and the "rules" as to what is allowed and what is not (examples include cameras are allowed, but no videos can be taken of any medical procedure). It was helpful to just be in the room ahead of time, and the nurse showed us the way that the bed maneuvers and lights position and change for the delivery. It was also nice to walk from the delivery room, past the nursery (which will be baby's next stop), to the mom and baby unit where we will spend the remainder of our time.
The infant care section was especially helpful. I mean, I have held a newborn, and I have fed a newborn, and I changed many a diapers... but there are things that I haven't done with babies. So, I was very appreciative to be shown how to sponge bathe a baby and told how often this should be done. It was also helpful to hear about different skin conditions that babies may naturally have so that we don't freak out over everything that may not seem normal to us! While I have at least a little experience with babies, Dusty does not. So, even if he doesn't admit it, I think he was glad that he attended the class to see how you hold a baby and change a diaper (we will probably practice this at home some before she arrives). And I hope that he at least feels a little more comfortable with what his role in the delivery room is going to be as a coach.
I would say that besides being pretty informative... it has made us think a little more about what we would like to happen. We obviously know that we can't really "plan" the delivery, but we can have preferences. And making a birth plan is something that we will be thinking about over the next couple of months, so that, when the time comes, we are prepared to at least speak up and have an opinion about the whole thing.
It's hard to believe... but I'm now only 12 weeks away from my due date! The third trimester is officially here, and glancing at the busy calendar ahead of us, I am sure that the next several weeks will fly by! It's certainly exciting, and at times a little overwhelming. But regardless of if we feel ready or not, we are definitely looking forward to meeting our little sweet pea whenever she decides to arrive! :)
6.28.2010
My NEW Favorite Pastime!
I guess it started shortly after I could feel the baby moving around. But as she has grown and gotten stronger, I am falling more in love with watching my belly move!
Now granted -- I am not seeing a foot or hand pressing out yet, but she is a strong little girl. And at this point, she is moving with enough "gusto" to make my stomach bounce around quite a bit!
Last week (week 25) was the first time that I thought: you know, it will be nice to have my body back... to not have this ever growing belly, and not have something slowing me down and keeping me so dang hot this summer. But even with that thought going through my mind from time to time, I still can't get over how cool it is to see her move. I know it will be much different when she gets here, but she is already amazing me with how she seems to be all over the place!
Most of the time she moves a little higher than my belly button (usually towards my right side). But she also squirms around in my lower abdominal area, and at times, it feels like she is using my bladder as a punching bag. I wish that I could see her moving around. Because while it is sometimes pretty obvious that she's punching or kicking, there are other times when I can't decide what in the world she could be doing in there... it's as if she is dancing around doing the worm or simply shaking her whole body. I am anticipating a time in the next few months when the movement will be less "fun" for me -- more of a pain than a joy. But until she starts making my insides hurt... I'm going to enjoy every moment of it!
I know it may not seem that cool to most people that my new pastime is watching my belly to watch my baby move. But to me, I can't think of a more enjoyable way to spend my spare time. :)
Now granted -- I am not seeing a foot or hand pressing out yet, but she is a strong little girl. And at this point, she is moving with enough "gusto" to make my stomach bounce around quite a bit!
Last week (week 25) was the first time that I thought: you know, it will be nice to have my body back... to not have this ever growing belly, and not have something slowing me down and keeping me so dang hot this summer. But even with that thought going through my mind from time to time, I still can't get over how cool it is to see her move. I know it will be much different when she gets here, but she is already amazing me with how she seems to be all over the place!
Most of the time she moves a little higher than my belly button (usually towards my right side). But she also squirms around in my lower abdominal area, and at times, it feels like she is using my bladder as a punching bag. I wish that I could see her moving around. Because while it is sometimes pretty obvious that she's punching or kicking, there are other times when I can't decide what in the world she could be doing in there... it's as if she is dancing around doing the worm or simply shaking her whole body. I am anticipating a time in the next few months when the movement will be less "fun" for me -- more of a pain than a joy. But until she starts making my insides hurt... I'm going to enjoy every moment of it!
I know it may not seem that cool to most people that my new pastime is watching my belly to watch my baby move. But to me, I can't think of a more enjoyable way to spend my spare time. :)
6.24.2010
Hey y'all!
OK, I think this may be my first-ever blog post, but "I reckon" now is as good a time as any! Plus, as my beautiful bride has mentioned, this is a season of firsts in our lives! Going back a couple years: first home together, first year(s) of married life, first time ever pulling for Clemson in anything (except when they play the Heels, of course), and now our first baby...and a baby girl at that! Raising a daughter will definitely be new territory for me, but Christin and I couldn't be more excited.
I mainly wanted to get on here just to say I did, but since I'm here, I must say that Christin has been great through this whole pregnancy so far. A little more tired, sure, but who wouldn't be, right? Seriously, it's been awesome to watch the baby grow and start to move around recently, and to hear my wife get more and more excited about carrying her. Yep, I am blessed to have these two in my life, along with family and a great group of friends. I am grateful for this season of life and for a God who is ever-faithful and loving--in good times and tougher times. This just so happens to be one of the good times.
Here's to hoping and praying for a continued smooth pregnancy (and a cooler summer), a baby girl who grows up healthy and strong to love the Lord and for God's continued blessing and protection on our new family...and on you people--anyone who might actually be reading this.
First blog post in the books,
DCH
6.23.2010
glucose screen and the requested belly shot
Monday morning I went in to have my glucose screen done before work. I have yet to hear anything back, so I hope that means that my sugar levels were normal. The test itself wasn't as bad as I imagined it would be.
Thankfully, there is a lab in Clemson that I am able to go to instead of having to go to the hospital in Anderson to have my lab work done. The best thing about the Clemson lab (other than being so much closer) is that the wait time is much less. In fact, when I went in, I only waited about 5-10 minutes before the technician came out to get me my "drink." I had been warned that it would taste like flat Sprite, but when she came down the hall with a red bottle of liquid, I knew that it wasn't going to be the flat Sprite I had prepared myself for. Instead, I was given a "fruit punch" flavor drink. The tech poured part the liquid into a cup for me, but there was still plenty left in the bottle as she explained that I had 10 minutes to drink the entire thing. To prepare myself a little better, I asked what it tasted like. She kind of laughed and said she didn't know, because she had never had it. But she had been told that it tasted like watered-down kool-aid. With that, I started drinking! I drank as quickly as I could... probably finishing the bottle in 3 minutes. And watered-down kool-aid was not exactly what I tasted! Instead, it was more like fruit punch flavored soda, but without the carbonation. It wasn't terrible, but it certainly wasn't what I would choose to drink first thing in the morning.
The next hour consisted of me simply waiting in the lobby area. At first I felt a little queasy from the extremely sweet drink, but after about 10 minutes, my body adjusted to it I guess. I had been advised to take a book along, since I would have to wait between the time I was finished and the time they could take my blood. But the lobby wasn't the quietest place I've ever been. The lab is actually in the same building as a doctor's office. And apparently, it's a very busy office! With 3 different ladies around the front desk the majority of the time... I think only one was answering the phones that never seemed to stop ringing! So, while I seemed to be "reading" my book, I don't feel like I made it very far! It felt like I waited for at least an hour and a half to be called back to the lab area to have my blood drawn, but when I was called back, I noticed that it had only been an hour. The drawing blood part was a breeze, and didn't take any time. So, now I guess I wait some more.
Dr. Shelley told me at my last appointment that as long as my sugar levels were normal, I won’t have to go through any more testing. But if anything was abnormal, she would need to send me back for a longer screening. IF I have to go through the glucose tolerance screen, I will need to be there for 3 hours… and I have already decided that I will be taking a portable DVD player with headphones because I am don’t think I can handle the waiting again unless I have a serious distraction!
Other than that… things are still going well. Sweet pea is moving a lot! And I have noticed that one of my favorite evening activities is laying down on the couch and watching her move! For some reason, it never gets old to me. I mean, I obviously feel her moving on the inside, but to my belly “bounce” around because of her movements is better than watching anything else. It just makes me think of how blessed I am that God has given me the opportunity to carry a baby and experience all the miraculous development stages she goes through. How cool to be a woman and get to experience that great privilege!
In other news, I have been asked to post “belly shots” by a couple of different people. And while I have been trying to take them every 4 weeks… I don’t LOVE the 24 week pictures. This actually 24 weeks and 5 days… and this picture was taken close to 10:30pm. I’m also not crazy about the outfit because the shirt is too big, and I don’t think it does the best job of showing what it’s supposed to show. But with all that said… I’m posting anyways! And I'll try to do better with the 28 week shot. Enjoy!
Thankfully, there is a lab in Clemson that I am able to go to instead of having to go to the hospital in Anderson to have my lab work done. The best thing about the Clemson lab (other than being so much closer) is that the wait time is much less. In fact, when I went in, I only waited about 5-10 minutes before the technician came out to get me my "drink." I had been warned that it would taste like flat Sprite, but when she came down the hall with a red bottle of liquid, I knew that it wasn't going to be the flat Sprite I had prepared myself for. Instead, I was given a "fruit punch" flavor drink. The tech poured part the liquid into a cup for me, but there was still plenty left in the bottle as she explained that I had 10 minutes to drink the entire thing. To prepare myself a little better, I asked what it tasted like. She kind of laughed and said she didn't know, because she had never had it. But she had been told that it tasted like watered-down kool-aid. With that, I started drinking! I drank as quickly as I could... probably finishing the bottle in 3 minutes. And watered-down kool-aid was not exactly what I tasted! Instead, it was more like fruit punch flavored soda, but without the carbonation. It wasn't terrible, but it certainly wasn't what I would choose to drink first thing in the morning.
The next hour consisted of me simply waiting in the lobby area. At first I felt a little queasy from the extremely sweet drink, but after about 10 minutes, my body adjusted to it I guess. I had been advised to take a book along, since I would have to wait between the time I was finished and the time they could take my blood. But the lobby wasn't the quietest place I've ever been. The lab is actually in the same building as a doctor's office. And apparently, it's a very busy office! With 3 different ladies around the front desk the majority of the time... I think only one was answering the phones that never seemed to stop ringing! So, while I seemed to be "reading" my book, I don't feel like I made it very far! It felt like I waited for at least an hour and a half to be called back to the lab area to have my blood drawn, but when I was called back, I noticed that it had only been an hour. The drawing blood part was a breeze, and didn't take any time. So, now I guess I wait some more.
Dr. Shelley told me at my last appointment that as long as my sugar levels were normal, I won’t have to go through any more testing. But if anything was abnormal, she would need to send me back for a longer screening. IF I have to go through the glucose tolerance screen, I will need to be there for 3 hours… and I have already decided that I will be taking a portable DVD player with headphones because I am don’t think I can handle the waiting again unless I have a serious distraction!
Other than that… things are still going well. Sweet pea is moving a lot! And I have noticed that one of my favorite evening activities is laying down on the couch and watching her move! For some reason, it never gets old to me. I mean, I obviously feel her moving on the inside, but to my belly “bounce” around because of her movements is better than watching anything else. It just makes me think of how blessed I am that God has given me the opportunity to carry a baby and experience all the miraculous development stages she goes through. How cool to be a woman and get to experience that great privilege!
In other news, I have been asked to post “belly shots” by a couple of different people. And while I have been trying to take them every 4 weeks… I don’t LOVE the 24 week pictures. This actually 24 weeks and 5 days… and this picture was taken close to 10:30pm. I’m also not crazy about the outfit because the shirt is too big, and I don’t think it does the best job of showing what it’s supposed to show. But with all that said… I’m posting anyways! And I'll try to do better with the 28 week shot. Enjoy!
6.17.2010
We're having a HEAT wave... and I'm not a fan!
I will start by saying that things are still going well. The heat, however, is not a friend of mine! The high temperatures have not fallen below 90 in over a week now... and it looks like they are going to stick around even longer (another week at least). Obviously the humidity here in SC does not help ANYTHING! And I am doing my best to stay inside and hydrated... but it's still HOT! The scary part to me is that we aren't even officially into the summer yet. And these temperatures are a lot more common in the "dog days" of summer -- typically in mid-late July through mid-late August. With June highs now in the 90s (about 10 degrees higher than the average), I think I will need to invest in a lot of tank tops and shorts/skirts to prepare for the July-August months... especially since I will enter and sweat through my third trimester around that time!
So I guess that the opening sentence should be changed to read... except for the heat, things are going well! :) I had another doctor's appointment last week. It was fairly short, and pretty basic. I gave the normal sample, blood pressure check, and weight check. I was given "homework" at this last visit -- a glucose test that should be performed between now and July 11. I was told that the test is a normal procedure at this point in the pregnancy, and I should allow 2 hours to complete it. Hopefully, it won't take THAT long. But I'll keep you posted! The rest of the appointment consisted of listening to sweet peas heartbeat. The difference was that this visit didn't require any searching to find the swooshing of her heartbeat, and it sounded much stronger/louder than the previous visits. And I had my belly (or uterus) measured. Dr. Shelley explained that at this point, the measurement taken (in cm) should be within 1-2 cm of the week of the pregnancy. So, at the visit, I was 23.5 weeks along and measured 25 cm. According to Dr. Shelley, that's perfect! So, I'll go with it!
I'm so thankful for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby thus far! May the next 3.5 months be just as enjoyable! :)
So I guess that the opening sentence should be changed to read... except for the heat, things are going well! :) I had another doctor's appointment last week. It was fairly short, and pretty basic. I gave the normal sample, blood pressure check, and weight check. I was given "homework" at this last visit -- a glucose test that should be performed between now and July 11. I was told that the test is a normal procedure at this point in the pregnancy, and I should allow 2 hours to complete it. Hopefully, it won't take THAT long. But I'll keep you posted! The rest of the appointment consisted of listening to sweet peas heartbeat. The difference was that this visit didn't require any searching to find the swooshing of her heartbeat, and it sounded much stronger/louder than the previous visits. And I had my belly (or uterus) measured. Dr. Shelley explained that at this point, the measurement taken (in cm) should be within 1-2 cm of the week of the pregnancy. So, at the visit, I was 23.5 weeks along and measured 25 cm. According to Dr. Shelley, that's perfect! So, I'll go with it!
I'm so thankful for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby thus far! May the next 3.5 months be just as enjoyable! :)
6.01.2010
Our Baby is no longer an "It"
Well, we're officially PAST half way at this point... and we know what we're having. It's a girl! :)
We hit the 20 week mark on May 16, and to "celebrate" we got to have our mid-term ultrasound on that Wednesday (May 19). It seemed more like a celebration that Dusty made it back safely from camp. Dusty had been at Rockbridge (a YoungLife camp that InterVarsity rents out for several weeks to hold camps for college students) for 2 weeks. While he was away, we kept reminding each other that we would get to find out what our baby was when he got back! So, while Dusty was away... it was something to help pass the time and look forward to his return and the actual appointment (of course).
The morning of the appointment was much calmer than I thought it would be. Our last appointment in Anderson (as opposed to Clemson where all our other appointments have been) was quite rushed. We slept in and had to rush to get to the doctor's office, then since we were late... we had to wait. This time, Dusty got up for a meeting at 7:00 am, and he came back to get me a little after 8:00. So, we were on the road by 8:15 to make our 8:55 ultrasound appointment.
As soon as we walked in, the tech asked if we wanted to find out the gender of the baby. When we said yes, she asked what our thoughts were... I mentioned that I thought it might be a girl but only because that was the only thing that I had sort of felt the whole time, but I wasn't positive one way or the other. Dusty only asked how often those feelings were right. With that out of the way... we started the ultrasound.
The image was amazing from the start! The last time we saw the baby... it looked like a little teddy bear almost with very short limbs. This time, the first image revealed very long legs and a backside. I was pretty sure at that point... it was a girl. But the technician said that she hadn't determined yet. She took several measurements... head size, length of the legs, looked at the spine (and noted how beautiful it was), and then listened at her heart rate (a perfect and very stead 156). After the "work" part of the ultrasound was done... she went back to the legs and asked if I wanted to call it. It's a girl -- no doubt about it!
She then pointed out her arms face and arms which were facing us, making her face look like the scream painting. She wasn't very active for us, but she seemed to be very comfortable and cozy laying on her side. The tech tried for 5 minutes (literally) to get her to roll over on her back so we could get a catch of her profile. She had me roll on one side, then the other, and back to my back. And the whole time, little big continued to cuddle up and squirm around on her side. At one point, she seemed to get somewhat frustrated by moving her hands in front of her as though she was saying, "I'm trying to look cute for you, and I already showed you what you wanted to see -- what else do you people want from me!?" Shortly afterwards, she slowly rolled back and gave us a glimpse of her sweet profile! Here are some of her pictures:
The doctor's appointment followed, and we learned that this one is growing well! She was in the 92% when we had the ultrasound. According to her size, the ultrasound tech estimated her due date a week ahead of when she is schedule to be here. But Dr. Shelley didn't change our due date. She just suggested that I mentally prepare for a little bigger baby than we had originally thought I might have. The dr. said that her size is fine, but it would be easier if I were a few inches taller. But she looks great and she is obviously getting everything she needs to be getting.
The past few weeks have been pretty cool, as far as her developement goes. She has been moving around on a pretty regular basis. I first really noticed her movement the last week that Dusty was gone. I just noticed that it was the first time I was certain it was baby movement, not gas or stomach stuff. Since then, she has almost gotten in a schedule of moving. About 30 minutes after I eat, she starts getting pretty active. And Dusty got to feel it too! Friday afternoon, I sat very still on the couch and watched my belly move a little as she kicked. Saturday night, I asked if he wanted to try to feel her moving around. He laid beside me on the couch, and within a couple of minutes, she let him have it! It was one of the stronger kicks I've felt so far.
It's really quite amazing. And while I know that we're 5 months along, so it's certainly real. Knowing that I'm carrying a SHE and no longer an it, and feeling and seeing her move around, really makes it very real! Now the name game begins, and shopping and nursery planning will be a fun summer project as we wait for the remaining 4 months to meet our little sweet pea! :)
We hit the 20 week mark on May 16, and to "celebrate" we got to have our mid-term ultrasound on that Wednesday (May 19). It seemed more like a celebration that Dusty made it back safely from camp. Dusty had been at Rockbridge (a YoungLife camp that InterVarsity rents out for several weeks to hold camps for college students) for 2 weeks. While he was away, we kept reminding each other that we would get to find out what our baby was when he got back! So, while Dusty was away... it was something to help pass the time and look forward to his return and the actual appointment (of course).
The morning of the appointment was much calmer than I thought it would be. Our last appointment in Anderson (as opposed to Clemson where all our other appointments have been) was quite rushed. We slept in and had to rush to get to the doctor's office, then since we were late... we had to wait. This time, Dusty got up for a meeting at 7:00 am, and he came back to get me a little after 8:00. So, we were on the road by 8:15 to make our 8:55 ultrasound appointment.
As soon as we walked in, the tech asked if we wanted to find out the gender of the baby. When we said yes, she asked what our thoughts were... I mentioned that I thought it might be a girl but only because that was the only thing that I had sort of felt the whole time, but I wasn't positive one way or the other. Dusty only asked how often those feelings were right. With that out of the way... we started the ultrasound.
The image was amazing from the start! The last time we saw the baby... it looked like a little teddy bear almost with very short limbs. This time, the first image revealed very long legs and a backside. I was pretty sure at that point... it was a girl. But the technician said that she hadn't determined yet. She took several measurements... head size, length of the legs, looked at the spine (and noted how beautiful it was), and then listened at her heart rate (a perfect and very stead 156). After the "work" part of the ultrasound was done... she went back to the legs and asked if I wanted to call it. It's a girl -- no doubt about it!
She then pointed out her arms face and arms which were facing us, making her face look like the scream painting. She wasn't very active for us, but she seemed to be very comfortable and cozy laying on her side. The tech tried for 5 minutes (literally) to get her to roll over on her back so we could get a catch of her profile. She had me roll on one side, then the other, and back to my back. And the whole time, little big continued to cuddle up and squirm around on her side. At one point, she seemed to get somewhat frustrated by moving her hands in front of her as though she was saying, "I'm trying to look cute for you, and I already showed you what you wanted to see -- what else do you people want from me!?" Shortly afterwards, she slowly rolled back and gave us a glimpse of her sweet profile! Here are some of her pictures:
The doctor's appointment followed, and we learned that this one is growing well! She was in the 92% when we had the ultrasound. According to her size, the ultrasound tech estimated her due date a week ahead of when she is schedule to be here. But Dr. Shelley didn't change our due date. She just suggested that I mentally prepare for a little bigger baby than we had originally thought I might have. The dr. said that her size is fine, but it would be easier if I were a few inches taller. But she looks great and she is obviously getting everything she needs to be getting.The past few weeks have been pretty cool, as far as her developement goes. She has been moving around on a pretty regular basis. I first really noticed her movement the last week that Dusty was gone. I just noticed that it was the first time I was certain it was baby movement, not gas or stomach stuff. Since then, she has almost gotten in a schedule of moving. About 30 minutes after I eat, she starts getting pretty active. And Dusty got to feel it too! Friday afternoon, I sat very still on the couch and watched my belly move a little as she kicked. Saturday night, I asked if he wanted to try to feel her moving around. He laid beside me on the couch, and within a couple of minutes, she let him have it! It was one of the stronger kicks I've felt so far.
It's really quite amazing. And while I know that we're 5 months along, so it's certainly real. Knowing that I'm carrying a SHE and no longer an it, and feeling and seeing her move around, really makes it very real! Now the name game begins, and shopping and nursery planning will be a fun summer project as we wait for the remaining 4 months to meet our little sweet pea! :)
5.13.2010
Almost half way there!
As the title of the post says... I'm almost half way through this pregnancy! Sunday officially marks my 20th week, and it's really kind of hard to believe!
As the halfway point approaches, all I can do is be thankful! I'm thankful that I haven't had any morning/afternoon/evening sickness thus far. I'm thankful that I haven't had any "growing" pains yet. And I think I'm thankful that I have (only) gained about 10 pounds at this point.
I will admit that I am still awaiting movement. I know that I wrote before about possible movement, but since that was weeks ago and I haven't felt anything since then... I have decided that what I felt wasn't what I thought. At my last appointment (a couple weeks ago), Dr. Shelley said that it may be another month before I would feel anything. Even if I only have a couple of weeks left before that "month" she spoke of is over, I'm getting excited about feeling it. Then again, Dr. Shelley also said that I should try to be thankful that I'm not feeling anything too soon either, mainly because she has had several women come in and ask if it were any way to get their babies to stop moving around so much! So, I guess I will just continue to wait... patiently (or as patiently as I can).
The excitement continues to build for other reasons too! Next week, we are scheduled to have our mid-term ultrasound. This ultrasound is a time for the doctors to make sure that everything is developing like it should, and it's a time for all of us to find out what gender baby we're having! I have heard that women have an instinct about that, and from what I have heard, that's true for some women, but not for me. Maybe it's that I don't have a preference, so that makes my "instinct" less noticable. But it's true... I don't care what it is! I am just getting excited to see what it looks like at this point! When a friend had her ultrasound, she brought the DVD back and showed us at work. It was truly amazing to me to see how her soon-to-be son moved and showed personality at just 19 weeks! It was also pretty surprising to me how clear the images were and clearly you could point out features and fingers and toes. So, with her ultrasound images in my mind... that's what I am looking forward to! I just want to see how this little one is moving and developing!
In other news... I'm ready for Dusty to come home! He's been gone for the past week and a half for InterVarsity. It's not like these 2 weeks away are anything new. It's just that this year, I have missed him being here more than normal. As a friend said last night... pregnancy makes the heart grow fonder! :)
I'll be sure to post something next week after we find out what this "critter" (as my mom called it) is. But until then... anyone wanna take their guess as to whether it's a boy or a girl?
As the halfway point approaches, all I can do is be thankful! I'm thankful that I haven't had any morning/afternoon/evening sickness thus far. I'm thankful that I haven't had any "growing" pains yet. And I think I'm thankful that I have (only) gained about 10 pounds at this point.
I will admit that I am still awaiting movement. I know that I wrote before about possible movement, but since that was weeks ago and I haven't felt anything since then... I have decided that what I felt wasn't what I thought. At my last appointment (a couple weeks ago), Dr. Shelley said that it may be another month before I would feel anything. Even if I only have a couple of weeks left before that "month" she spoke of is over, I'm getting excited about feeling it. Then again, Dr. Shelley also said that I should try to be thankful that I'm not feeling anything too soon either, mainly because she has had several women come in and ask if it were any way to get their babies to stop moving around so much! So, I guess I will just continue to wait... patiently (or as patiently as I can).
The excitement continues to build for other reasons too! Next week, we are scheduled to have our mid-term ultrasound. This ultrasound is a time for the doctors to make sure that everything is developing like it should, and it's a time for all of us to find out what gender baby we're having! I have heard that women have an instinct about that, and from what I have heard, that's true for some women, but not for me. Maybe it's that I don't have a preference, so that makes my "instinct" less noticable. But it's true... I don't care what it is! I am just getting excited to see what it looks like at this point! When a friend had her ultrasound, she brought the DVD back and showed us at work. It was truly amazing to me to see how her soon-to-be son moved and showed personality at just 19 weeks! It was also pretty surprising to me how clear the images were and clearly you could point out features and fingers and toes. So, with her ultrasound images in my mind... that's what I am looking forward to! I just want to see how this little one is moving and developing!
In other news... I'm ready for Dusty to come home! He's been gone for the past week and a half for InterVarsity. It's not like these 2 weeks away are anything new. It's just that this year, I have missed him being here more than normal. As a friend said last night... pregnancy makes the heart grow fonder! :)
I'll be sure to post something next week after we find out what this "critter" (as my mom called it) is. But until then... anyone wanna take their guess as to whether it's a boy or a girl?
5.04.2010
Dr's Appointment and Mini-Vacation!
We seem to be moving right along with this pregnancy. This week, I'm 18 weeks along, and we as far as I can tell... things are still good.
We had another doctor's appointment last week. Dusty was able to make this one, but it was pretty basic. Again, we listened to the heartbeat with the Doppler. And again, it took a minute to find it. Just about the time Dr. Shelley found it, the sound stopped because the baby moved away from it. But for the brief moment we did have sound, it was reassuring! Other than that, my blood work came back as all negative except my A+ blood type, which is what was supposed to happen. I'm still not really sure what all they did, but apparently I don't have any diseases that I can pass on to my unborn child. So, that's good.
Along with doctor's appointments, life is good too! Dusty and I were able to take a mini-vacation to Asheville last weekend. It was nice to get away and spend time with each other, especially with work and other commitments keeping us pretty busy. We had some good suggestions of things to do, so we stayed entertained but not too busy while we were gone! We joke that we did nothing but eat, and looking back, it kind of seems that way, but what we ate was good and what we did was fun and relaxing! For example, our first night there, we saw Avatar while having pizza (and beer for Dusty) at the Asheville Pizza & Brewing Company. The next day, we walked around Biltmore Village and stopped in to the Biltmore McDonald's (as seen on the Food Network, but was somewhat disappointing in person) to split a small Happy Meal before a real lunch at Papa's & Beer (again, just beer for Dusty). Friday night was a fun evening downtown with Wes (Dusty's brother) and Valerie (his girlfriend) watching the "live entertainment" as we waited to be seated for dinner at Tupelo Honey Cafe. Saturday was a little different as far as the day goes... after breakfast, we headed to the west side of town so I could enjoy a prenatal massage -- that was great! After meeting back up with Dusty, we had a quick lunch, and then enjoyed an hour or so riding on the Blue Ridge Parkway! I think that the parkway is one of my favorite places to be and driving it is one of the most relaxing things on earth! The rest of the afternoon was spent shopping, which was pretty fun since the things we bought were some maternity clothes for me! And to kind of wrap up our weekend, we had a nice dinner out at the Corner Kitchen back at Biltmore Village.
All in all, it was a great weekend! And we had lots of wonderful time to spend together before the summer travel and fall baby get here! Back to baby... our next appointment is in 2 weeks when we will get the opportunity to find out the gender of the baby! :) I think I'm most excited about seeing the updated version of what the little one looks like at this point! We're pretty excited, and I guess that the next post will be one that you'll certainly want to tune in to! Maybe we should start taking a poll to pass the time... :)
We had another doctor's appointment last week. Dusty was able to make this one, but it was pretty basic. Again, we listened to the heartbeat with the Doppler. And again, it took a minute to find it. Just about the time Dr. Shelley found it, the sound stopped because the baby moved away from it. But for the brief moment we did have sound, it was reassuring! Other than that, my blood work came back as all negative except my A+ blood type, which is what was supposed to happen. I'm still not really sure what all they did, but apparently I don't have any diseases that I can pass on to my unborn child. So, that's good.
Along with doctor's appointments, life is good too! Dusty and I were able to take a mini-vacation to Asheville last weekend. It was nice to get away and spend time with each other, especially with work and other commitments keeping us pretty busy. We had some good suggestions of things to do, so we stayed entertained but not too busy while we were gone! We joke that we did nothing but eat, and looking back, it kind of seems that way, but what we ate was good and what we did was fun and relaxing! For example, our first night there, we saw Avatar while having pizza (and beer for Dusty) at the Asheville Pizza & Brewing Company. The next day, we walked around Biltmore Village and stopped in to the Biltmore McDonald's (as seen on the Food Network, but was somewhat disappointing in person) to split a small Happy Meal before a real lunch at Papa's & Beer (again, just beer for Dusty). Friday night was a fun evening downtown with Wes (Dusty's brother) and Valerie (his girlfriend) watching the "live entertainment" as we waited to be seated for dinner at Tupelo Honey Cafe. Saturday was a little different as far as the day goes... after breakfast, we headed to the west side of town so I could enjoy a prenatal massage -- that was great! After meeting back up with Dusty, we had a quick lunch, and then enjoyed an hour or so riding on the Blue Ridge Parkway! I think that the parkway is one of my favorite places to be and driving it is one of the most relaxing things on earth! The rest of the afternoon was spent shopping, which was pretty fun since the things we bought were some maternity clothes for me! And to kind of wrap up our weekend, we had a nice dinner out at the Corner Kitchen back at Biltmore Village.
All in all, it was a great weekend! And we had lots of wonderful time to spend together before the summer travel and fall baby get here! Back to baby... our next appointment is in 2 weeks when we will get the opportunity to find out the gender of the baby! :) I think I'm most excited about seeing the updated version of what the little one looks like at this point! We're pretty excited, and I guess that the next post will be one that you'll certainly want to tune in to! Maybe we should start taking a poll to pass the time... :)
4.23.2010
Movement?
As the pregnancy continues, I have noticed that I am really looking forward to new milestones! The newest one that I am extremely anxious for is feeling movement!
According to everything I have read (from books to online articles), the first movements can be felt anywhere from 16-22 weeks. I have also read all of the different descriptions of what it feels like too... it feels like butterflies fluttering, fish swimming, gas bubbles, etc. But I wanted to make sure that when I feel it, I know what it is! So, all week, I have been anxious to feel SOMETHING!
While I know that it's not very likely that I will feel something this early (even if some do), I still think that I might have felt some movement on Wednesday evening! When I got home, I laid on the couch and started talking to Dusty about the day. Just before getting up to fix dinner... I felt something. It was sort of like fish swimming or gas bubbles. It felt like my stomach feels when it rubbles and growls, but it was different then a stomach growl, and it was in the same location that the heartbeat was heard at my last doctor's appointment.
Whether it was movement or not, I still don't know. I haven't felt anything since then, but I will have a much better idea as to if that feeling Wednesday night was the baby or not when I start to feel stronger, more consistent movement!
For now... I'm going to say that I felt it! :)
According to everything I have read (from books to online articles), the first movements can be felt anywhere from 16-22 weeks. I have also read all of the different descriptions of what it feels like too... it feels like butterflies fluttering, fish swimming, gas bubbles, etc. But I wanted to make sure that when I feel it, I know what it is! So, all week, I have been anxious to feel SOMETHING!
While I know that it's not very likely that I will feel something this early (even if some do), I still think that I might have felt some movement on Wednesday evening! When I got home, I laid on the couch and started talking to Dusty about the day. Just before getting up to fix dinner... I felt something. It was sort of like fish swimming or gas bubbles. It felt like my stomach feels when it rubbles and growls, but it was different then a stomach growl, and it was in the same location that the heartbeat was heard at my last doctor's appointment.
Whether it was movement or not, I still don't know. I haven't felt anything since then, but I will have a much better idea as to if that feeling Wednesday night was the baby or not when I start to feel stronger, more consistent movement!
For now... I'm going to say that I felt it! :)
4.20.2010
The news is out...
We're expecting! We waited to break the news to the world when we reached the second trimester... which just so happened to be Easter Sunday! Though our immediate family was in the loop long before the 14 week mark, it was exciting to get to tell other friends and the rest of our extended family. And it was pretty significant to us that we were able to share our news on such a significant holiday!
In an attempt to keep track of this pregnancy (since I've never been through this before), I plan on using this as a place to keep up with doctor's appointments and momentus occasions that will happen along the way. With that being said... I'll start by saying that my LMD was December 27, so based on that date, our expected due date is October 3. We have now had 2 doctor's appointments that I will give more detail on in a bit, and we plan on finding out what we are expecting in about a month. This will be the first grandchild for both of my parents, and the second for Dusty's mom (though it will be the first one in a while for her since Sophia is 8), but still kind of the first for Dusty's dad.
To back track a little... we officially quit "preventing" at the end of October. So a few months passed and no news. By January, I felt very hopeful, but didn't want to set myself up for disappointment. But around the same time I accompanied friends to Orlando to pick up the Haitian boy they were adopting, I realized that I hadn't started yet. I was pretty tired all week, but I blaimed that on the fact that I had only gotten about 4 hours of sleep in over 40 hours earlier that week. Well, once I realized that the dates lined up correctly, and nothing was happening, I decided to take a pregnancy test. I took it first thing when I got up on January 28th, and before I could put the test on the counter to wait for results, the "pregnant" line started showing up. I jumped in the shower and started getting ready as normal, but the thoughts going through my head were anything but normal. When I got out of the shower, I checked the test again to confirm that it was a positive result. I wasn't sure what or how to tell Dusty. But when I opened the bathroom door, I called to him (he was still asleep) and simply said... Honey -- I'm pregnant. He quickly picked his head up and replied with "Really?" The next few minutes are kind of a blur... I think it was a mix of excitement and nervousness. And while we wanted to call everyone we knew, we tried to contain ourselves because we didn't want to get too excited too quickly, especially since we were only 4.5 weeks along.
The next several weeks slowly moved by. And though I was a little tired, I didn't really experience many of the "typical" pregnancy symptoms. I called to make an appointment when I was about 6.5 weeks along, but the appointment they gave me was still 3.5 weeks away. I will admit that those 3.5 weeks felt like they would NEVER pass! When the time finally came for our first appointment, I was 10 weeks along, and eager to see the doctor. Still not experiencing any symptoms, I wanted to make sure everything was okay.
Our first appointment was scheduled for March 8, and it started a little rough. I had set my alarm the night before to allow us PLENTY of time to make it to Anderson (about 25 minutes away), but I had silenced my phone the night before at church meeting and didn't even think to unsilence it. So, when I woke up on that Monday morning, I saw realized that we needed to be leaving in 10 minutes! Obviously, I felt the need to shower, espcially since I wasn't sure what this first appointment would entail. Dusty was great... he quickly got ready and tended to the dogs while simply waiting for me to finish up. Because we were running late, I called the doctor's office, and was told that they would still see me, but since we were late we would have to be worked back in to the morning work scheudle. We waited for what seemed like (and may have been) an hour before I was called back to answer some questions and have my blood pressure checked. I was also informed that I would be having an internal ultrasound that morning to confirm the pregnancy, but the wait would continue since the ultrasound rooms were backed up.
I guess it was another 30 minutes passed before they called us both back. Once in the ultrasound room, I changed into the lovely papertowel-like sheet and waited some more! Waiting for the doctor made me start to get anxious. What if things weren't okay? What if the baby wasn't as developed as it should be at this point? What if there were multiple babies? I expressed my anxiety to Dusty and he pointed out a verse on the wall... Philippians 4: 6-7: Do not be anxieous about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transends all understand, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Very shortly after being comforted from reading that the doctor came in!
The ultrasound got underway, and the most adorable image instantly popped up on the screen.
In an attempt to keep track of this pregnancy (since I've never been through this before), I plan on using this as a place to keep up with doctor's appointments and momentus occasions that will happen along the way. With that being said... I'll start by saying that my LMD was December 27, so based on that date, our expected due date is October 3. We have now had 2 doctor's appointments that I will give more detail on in a bit, and we plan on finding out what we are expecting in about a month. This will be the first grandchild for both of my parents, and the second for Dusty's mom (though it will be the first one in a while for her since Sophia is 8), but still kind of the first for Dusty's dad.
To back track a little... we officially quit "preventing" at the end of October. So a few months passed and no news. By January, I felt very hopeful, but didn't want to set myself up for disappointment. But around the same time I accompanied friends to Orlando to pick up the Haitian boy they were adopting, I realized that I hadn't started yet. I was pretty tired all week, but I blaimed that on the fact that I had only gotten about 4 hours of sleep in over 40 hours earlier that week. Well, once I realized that the dates lined up correctly, and nothing was happening, I decided to take a pregnancy test. I took it first thing when I got up on January 28th, and before I could put the test on the counter to wait for results, the "pregnant" line started showing up. I jumped in the shower and started getting ready as normal, but the thoughts going through my head were anything but normal. When I got out of the shower, I checked the test again to confirm that it was a positive result. I wasn't sure what or how to tell Dusty. But when I opened the bathroom door, I called to him (he was still asleep) and simply said... Honey -- I'm pregnant. He quickly picked his head up and replied with "Really?" The next few minutes are kind of a blur... I think it was a mix of excitement and nervousness. And while we wanted to call everyone we knew, we tried to contain ourselves because we didn't want to get too excited too quickly, especially since we were only 4.5 weeks along.
The next several weeks slowly moved by. And though I was a little tired, I didn't really experience many of the "typical" pregnancy symptoms. I called to make an appointment when I was about 6.5 weeks along, but the appointment they gave me was still 3.5 weeks away. I will admit that those 3.5 weeks felt like they would NEVER pass! When the time finally came for our first appointment, I was 10 weeks along, and eager to see the doctor. Still not experiencing any symptoms, I wanted to make sure everything was okay.
Our first appointment was scheduled for March 8, and it started a little rough. I had set my alarm the night before to allow us PLENTY of time to make it to Anderson (about 25 minutes away), but I had silenced my phone the night before at church meeting and didn't even think to unsilence it. So, when I woke up on that Monday morning, I saw realized that we needed to be leaving in 10 minutes! Obviously, I felt the need to shower, espcially since I wasn't sure what this first appointment would entail. Dusty was great... he quickly got ready and tended to the dogs while simply waiting for me to finish up. Because we were running late, I called the doctor's office, and was told that they would still see me, but since we were late we would have to be worked back in to the morning work scheudle. We waited for what seemed like (and may have been) an hour before I was called back to answer some questions and have my blood pressure checked. I was also informed that I would be having an internal ultrasound that morning to confirm the pregnancy, but the wait would continue since the ultrasound rooms were backed up.
I guess it was another 30 minutes passed before they called us both back. Once in the ultrasound room, I changed into the lovely papertowel-like sheet and waited some more! Waiting for the doctor made me start to get anxious. What if things weren't okay? What if the baby wasn't as developed as it should be at this point? What if there were multiple babies? I expressed my anxiety to Dusty and he pointed out a verse on the wall... Philippians 4: 6-7: Do not be anxieous about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transends all understand, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Very shortly after being comforted from reading that the doctor came in!
The ultrasound got underway, and the most adorable image instantly popped up on the screen.
As Dr. Shelley zoomed in toward the head and hands, our precious little one waved its little arm! Dr. Shelley asked it if it was going to wave at us, and then made the comment that she had never seen that so early. Then she said she would listen for the heartbeat. It took a minute to come up, but she centered on the heart and the swooshing sound quickly came out. The heartbeat was right around 160, and Dr. Shelley said it sounded good. Once measured, she said that the baby was on track (technically 4 days ahead of where it should be).
The appointment was a joyous time for us, and we were so pleased with how things were going. Since, then I have had another appointment, where again they checked my weight and blood pressure, but also asked all kinds of health questions and had me give a urine sample. By the time I saw the doctor, all she need to do was use a doppler to hear the heartbeat again. An assistant (who was in training) used the doppler, and about gave me a heart-attack when she couldn't pick up the heartbeat. Thankfully, Dr. Shelley advised her to try in a different place, and once she landed on Dr. Shelley's advised spot... instant swooshing sound (in the 160s again). :)
As for now... I guess it's so far so good. I am now 16 weeks (and 2 days), and I go back again April 28. Still no symptoms, and until the last week or so, I haven't really been looking pregnant. When I take some pictures this week, I will try to post them. Other than that, we are very excited and the fun of guessing what it will be has already started. Dusty is rooting for a boy (of course), but I really don't have a preference! I am just getting excited about seeing the little one again.
1.27.2010
A happy ending... for 1 Haitian orphan!
I just wanted to take a minute to put an update on our trip to Orlando this week.
We left Central at 2:00 am. We drove through the night and the next morning, arriving at the airport around 11:00. Upon arriving, we learned that the only thing we could do was wait... possibly up to 24 hours for processing. The primary reason for the long processing (we later found out for ourselves) was that there were so many different government departments involved. There was instant frustration when we learned that Beth and Justin couldn't get back to see Will (the orphan they are adopting) or Beth's mom (who had escorted Will from Haiti). We were told we would have to wait in a designated area (near the baggage claim and "food court").
Once we were directed to where we were supposed to wait at the airport, we were joined by a few other families in the same situation. A PR representative from one of the governing departments came by and tried to explain what was going on at that point. We were told that the incoming orphans were classified into 1 of 3 categories. Category 1 meant that the adoption had been finalized before the earthquake... all the paperwork has been previously filed (by both Haitian and American governments) and once it was processed at the airport, the child would be released to his/her new parents. Category 2 meant that all the paperwork was finished but had not yet been processed. As long as the papers were all together (with the parents at the airport), a criminal background check would be performed and the child would probably be released to the new parents. Category 3 was a little less promising... if the child was categorized as a 3 it meant that the paperwork had not been finished, and even with a background check of the parents, the child would probably be sent to a temporary housing situation (even if the new parents were there).
Will was somewhere between Category 2 and 3. Beth and Justin had everything together and with them, but part of the problem was that their home study was out-of-date. The frustrating part of that situation was that they had a home study done, but the lady who had performed the study had not yet finished putting it together and submitting it. So, while we waited, Beth frantically called everyone she could thing of to try to get the home study sent to the airport. Having things sent and copied also seemed to be a problem... for several hours, we didn't have a fax number to get things sent directly to the Department of Homeland Security at the airport. So our plan started to change from waiting to Justin and I planning on coming back to SC.
Justin and I decided that we would hang out until around 5:00, and the plan was that if we didn't hear anything at that point, we would head home and Beth would stay in Orlando with her uncle (who had been at the airport with us all day). Shortly after making that decision... things started to change.
Around 4:30, from out of nowhere, and without any updates prior to that point... a representative came out and said they were ready to release Will to Beth and Justin's custody! With that, the entire mood changed, and excitement started to spread! It was incredible to see families who had been waiting for a couple of days come out of the "holding area" with their newly adopted children! And then, it was Beth and Justin's turn to reunite with Will!
They went back, and with the minor hiccup of Beth having to come back out for her ID, they soon came out themselves with their child and Beth's mom! Will was adorable! He only spoke creole, so Beth's mom translated for him. But he continued to say "Goodbye!" to everyone he passed on his way down the hall toward the door! Everyone had smiles stretched from ear to ear and eyes that were filled with beautiful tears of joy!
The long day wasn't quite over with the extremely long ride home... especially for a child who had been awake for nearly 36 hours and had never had to ride in a restricting car seat. But the tears and struggle of getting home couldn't have been more rewarding because Will was with us! It's the excitement he showed to be with his new mommy and daddy that will never leave my memory or my heart!
Welcome home Will!
We left Central at 2:00 am. We drove through the night and the next morning, arriving at the airport around 11:00. Upon arriving, we learned that the only thing we could do was wait... possibly up to 24 hours for processing. The primary reason for the long processing (we later found out for ourselves) was that there were so many different government departments involved. There was instant frustration when we learned that Beth and Justin couldn't get back to see Will (the orphan they are adopting) or Beth's mom (who had escorted Will from Haiti). We were told we would have to wait in a designated area (near the baggage claim and "food court").
Once we were directed to where we were supposed to wait at the airport, we were joined by a few other families in the same situation. A PR representative from one of the governing departments came by and tried to explain what was going on at that point. We were told that the incoming orphans were classified into 1 of 3 categories. Category 1 meant that the adoption had been finalized before the earthquake... all the paperwork has been previously filed (by both Haitian and American governments) and once it was processed at the airport, the child would be released to his/her new parents. Category 2 meant that all the paperwork was finished but had not yet been processed. As long as the papers were all together (with the parents at the airport), a criminal background check would be performed and the child would probably be released to the new parents. Category 3 was a little less promising... if the child was categorized as a 3 it meant that the paperwork had not been finished, and even with a background check of the parents, the child would probably be sent to a temporary housing situation (even if the new parents were there).
Will was somewhere between Category 2 and 3. Beth and Justin had everything together and with them, but part of the problem was that their home study was out-of-date. The frustrating part of that situation was that they had a home study done, but the lady who had performed the study had not yet finished putting it together and submitting it. So, while we waited, Beth frantically called everyone she could thing of to try to get the home study sent to the airport. Having things sent and copied also seemed to be a problem... for several hours, we didn't have a fax number to get things sent directly to the Department of Homeland Security at the airport. So our plan started to change from waiting to Justin and I planning on coming back to SC.
Justin and I decided that we would hang out until around 5:00, and the plan was that if we didn't hear anything at that point, we would head home and Beth would stay in Orlando with her uncle (who had been at the airport with us all day). Shortly after making that decision... things started to change.
Around 4:30, from out of nowhere, and without any updates prior to that point... a representative came out and said they were ready to release Will to Beth and Justin's custody! With that, the entire mood changed, and excitement started to spread! It was incredible to see families who had been waiting for a couple of days come out of the "holding area" with their newly adopted children! And then, it was Beth and Justin's turn to reunite with Will!
They went back, and with the minor hiccup of Beth having to come back out for her ID, they soon came out themselves with their child and Beth's mom! Will was adorable! He only spoke creole, so Beth's mom translated for him. But he continued to say "Goodbye!" to everyone he passed on his way down the hall toward the door! Everyone had smiles stretched from ear to ear and eyes that were filled with beautiful tears of joy!
The long day wasn't quite over with the extremely long ride home... especially for a child who had been awake for nearly 36 hours and had never had to ride in a restricting car seat. But the tears and struggle of getting home couldn't have been more rewarding because Will was with us! It's the excitement he showed to be with his new mommy and daddy that will never leave my memory or my heart!
Welcome home Will!
1.25.2010
God is Good!
I want to share an amazing story with the world... and this is the best way I could think to do it!
A couple from our church has been working on adopting a little boy from Haiti. They met this little boy at an orphanage in 2008. Since then, they have been working on paperwork that include everything from house studies to blood work. In the fall of 2008, this couple took in a foster child. The little girl quickly made an impact on their life, and they knew that they wouldn't be able to give her back. So, they started working on the adoption process for her. By September of 2009, the little girl was legally adopted and became a permanent member of their family. However, their family still wasn't complete.
This past Christmas, the couple told us about the process and the current updates on their on-going paperwork for their Haitian child. When looking at a time line, they thought that it would be pretty unlikely for the little boy to be here before Christmas of 2010.
Then... the earthquake hit Haiti. At first, the main concern was that he was okay. Luckily, he wasn't in the capital and was safe and sound with the couple's family (who happen to be missionaries in Haiti). And while so many orphans were being flown out of the country to American families who had been waiting for them... our friends hadn't filed all of their paperwork by the time the earthquake hit. So, there was no guarantee that they would be able to get their little boy out of the country any sooner.
But as the title of this post says... God is good! And prayer is so powerful! With that being said... I am so extremely excited to share with you that their child is on a plane on his way to Orlando. In order to get him, the family must meet the child at the airport. So, as I write this... I am waiting for them to come and pick me up. I am so honored to get to go on this adventure with them. I can't explain how honored I am to witness this reunion. And I am so incredibly moved by God's goodness and power. No there paperwork wasn't done. And no they didn't have all the documents that they needed. But God is so much bigger than we are... and he is so much greater than we can imagine!
Praise God for the miracle of getting this child to his new home. And I just ask that if you are reading this, you will join me in praying to the transition for this young boy and his new family. It will be hard, but everyone involved is so incredibly ready for the challenge!
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