We arrived at Triage around 11 and were greeted by my friends J and T, walking the halls. Forrest and I went on to check in, and once we were hooked up to the monitors, found my contractions to be every 4 minutes, lasting 1 minute. I was checked, and was 1.5 cm, 60% effaced, and -2 station. Not wanting to send me home, they had me walk the hospital halls for an hour to come back and be checked again. We walked, and walked.... and walked....... I had to stop and breathe through the worst contractions, rocking side to side, holding on to the railing on the wall. After an hour, we went back, and rested. We tried to get some sleep (to no avail), and at 1:30 am, I was checked again. Thankfully, I'd made some progress. I was 3 cm, and 60%. They made me get up again and walk. This time, I was able to walk with J, while Forrest and T hung back and chatted. It was quite a joy to have my friend there, going through what I was going through. Looking back, it made the whole experience that much easier.
I wasn't checked again until 5 am, and I was still 3 cm. The nurse assured me that they were working on getting a room for me. She then encouraged me to keep walking, as my contractions were now starting to space out, and we didn't want labor to stall. As we walked out into the hallway, another woman was being wheeled into triage. Her face was calm, collected, and a bit tired. I leaned in to Forrest and said something along the lines of, "she can't be in labor, she looks too good". We met up with J & T and continued to walk. 5 minutes into our walk, the nurses station bursts into energy with women yelling out things, and running everywhere. We stood to the side of the hallway, and suddenly, out of triage, a nurse runs out carrying a baby. J's eyes and mine meet, and we realize that the woman who'd just been wheeled in had delivered her child in triage. She'd checked in at 10 cm (how on earth she was as calm as she was, is beyond me), and delivered in 2 minutes, almost in the toilet! They wheeled her out of triage and to her room, and we continued to walk while they cleaned triage up.
Our wait for a room was delayed even further at this point, since the triage-delivery lady had taken my room. We waited another hour, and finally, at 6 am, I was checked in to a room. At 6:30, my doctor came in, noticed my contractions spacing out (they were down to every 10 minutes apart now) and tried to convince me to start pitocin. I resisted, asking if there wasn't another method, and he suggested breaking my water. He checked me, and I was 5 cm, 70% and 0 station, so he broke my water. Forrest and tried to get some sleep, but I was too excited to sleep.
Around 8 am, the doctor came back to check on me, and my contractions still had not picked up. He was worried that my labor was stalling, and again encouraged the pitocin. We talked at length about the pitocin, and Forrest and I talked it over. At this point, I was pretty exhausted, having not slept a wink in 24 hours. We decided that it was probably best to go ahead and at least try a very low dose of pitocin. Within 30 minutes, my contractions picked up, and around 9:30 am, I asked to see the anesthesiologist for my epidural. We had the most thorough doctor in the world, who explained all of my options for pain relief... including some I hadn't considered. I decided to go with the epidural, since I'd had a good experience the first time with it. They inserted my epidural, and all seemed to be doing well until my blood pressure suddenly dropped. I suddenly felt awful, like I was withdrawing into my body, and started throwing up. Thankfully, the doctor was right there to administer whatever medication it was that was needed to counteract the drop in pressure. He had explained the possibility of this happening to us before it happened, so it wasn't quite as surprising as it could have been. I think it helped Forrest the most, as he was able to remain calm, knowing this was a common side effect.
Around 10:45, my doctor came back, checked me ant I was 6 cm, 90% effaced, and +1 station. I was incredibly exhausted at this point. Our family had arrived sometime that morning, and we finally sent them home at 11. We told them we'd call when I hit 10 cm, and started pushing so that they could be there shortly after the birth. Once everyone had left, Forrest and I were able to sleep. We took a good 45 minute nap (a heavy, deep nap at that) and woke up refreshed.
At 2 pm, I was having incredibly painful pressure on my pelvis, so much so that I requested a second dose of the epidural medication. After they upped the medication, the doctor checked me and announced I was 10 cm. Shortly after, I felt this incredible urge to push. I mentioned it to the doctor who gave me strict orders not to, since they hadn't gotten everything set up. I had to breathe through 5 minutes of setup, which by far was worse than any part of the labor thus far. The doctor told me to try one push, as he wanted to get an idea of how long it'd take. He asked me how long I pushed with Shepherd, and I responded 45 minutes. He then smiled and said, okay, we're aiming for 4 minutes this time. I laughed, totally thinking he was kidding, and pushed. He stopped me on the count of 3, and turned and told the nurses to get ready. He turned back and said, okay, push again. We pushed through one 10 count push, and then to the count of 2 on the second push, and the baby's head was out. One final push and she was here. I was able to hold her immediately, and cried. Forrest looked at me and asked me what her name was (I'd been having second thoughts on the name, and just decided I'd wait to see how I felt when she was born). I cried, and immediately responded, "Colette Rachel". She was beautiful....
Monday, September 24, 2007
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Oh, Hi!!!
That's right, I have a blog, don't I? And I haven't posted in quite a while, eh? So I guess some of you are wondering what the heck happened to me (or not). You see, I have a very good reason... a super great reason, actually.
It's called being a mother to two kids who are only 18 months apart. That combined with the numerous trips to the doctor (more on that in a minute) and a serious lack of sleep have made time on the computer a rare treat, and time to blog a rarity. So please forgive my absence. I really am okay.
As to the doctors visits, poor little Colette seems to have developed a nice little milk allergy, complete with bloody stools that have sent me climbing the walls with worry. Do you guys know how awful it feels to change your daughters diaper, and see blood, and know it's your fault because you drank dairy? Granted, I know that it's not really "my fault" because I was unaware of the allergy, but still... it still sucks. So that accompanied by her reflux (our family has a history of GERD, something Shepherd had too) has had us at the doctors quite a bit. Thankfully, both problems seem to be getting better. After only 3 days on Zantac, Colette began packing on the pounds (she'd only gained 4 oz the week before, and gained 5 oz in 3 days after Zantac). Also, in the last few days, she has begun to pass stools without blood in them, which makes me feel a million times better. I've been off dairy for almost a week now, so it looks like we're seeing some improvement.
As to how Shepherd is doing, he seems to have hit a weird stage. He's Jekyl and Hyde.... one minute pleseant as can be, and the next, he's thrashing on the ground in a fit of rage because how dare I deny him a cookie!!!!! The world must end now!! God save us!!! *sigh* I'm chalking it up to the whole transition with the baby, even though he absolutely loves the baby and hugs her and kisses her all the livelong day. My hunch is that he's missing out on attention, and he's not quite able to pinpoint why that is (which, duh!! the baby!). Hopefully, things will settle back down.
But despite all of that, I feel that I've been able to transition from a parent of one to a parent of two fairly easily. Yes, we have our moments, but honestly, it hasn't been that bad. I may be exhausted, but it is so worth every minute of sleep that I'm not getting to have both of my children. I wouldn't trade it for anything in this world...
It's called being a mother to two kids who are only 18 months apart. That combined with the numerous trips to the doctor (more on that in a minute) and a serious lack of sleep have made time on the computer a rare treat, and time to blog a rarity. So please forgive my absence. I really am okay.
As to the doctors visits, poor little Colette seems to have developed a nice little milk allergy, complete with bloody stools that have sent me climbing the walls with worry. Do you guys know how awful it feels to change your daughters diaper, and see blood, and know it's your fault because you drank dairy? Granted, I know that it's not really "my fault" because I was unaware of the allergy, but still... it still sucks. So that accompanied by her reflux (our family has a history of GERD, something Shepherd had too) has had us at the doctors quite a bit. Thankfully, both problems seem to be getting better. After only 3 days on Zantac, Colette began packing on the pounds (she'd only gained 4 oz the week before, and gained 5 oz in 3 days after Zantac). Also, in the last few days, she has begun to pass stools without blood in them, which makes me feel a million times better. I've been off dairy for almost a week now, so it looks like we're seeing some improvement.
As to how Shepherd is doing, he seems to have hit a weird stage. He's Jekyl and Hyde.... one minute pleseant as can be, and the next, he's thrashing on the ground in a fit of rage because how dare I deny him a cookie!!!!! The world must end now!! God save us!!! *sigh* I'm chalking it up to the whole transition with the baby, even though he absolutely loves the baby and hugs her and kisses her all the livelong day. My hunch is that he's missing out on attention, and he's not quite able to pinpoint why that is (which, duh!! the baby!). Hopefully, things will settle back down.
But despite all of that, I feel that I've been able to transition from a parent of one to a parent of two fairly easily. Yes, we have our moments, but honestly, it hasn't been that bad. I may be exhausted, but it is so worth every minute of sleep that I'm not getting to have both of my children. I wouldn't trade it for anything in this world...
Friday, September 07, 2007
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
18 Months
Shepherd,
You turned 18 months old last week (or rather a week and a half ago). As usual, I was behind in writing your letter, and then something unexpected happened. Your baby sister was born 2 weeks early. So here I am, almost 2 weeks late, reflecting over the last month.
Your 18th month was hard for me, since I was GREAT with child. Your energy level had shot through the roof, and keeping up with you proved to be a big challenge. There were mornings I'd wake up crying, knowing I couldn't play all the games you wanted to play. There were nights I'd lie awake wondering how you would handle such a huge transition from being an only child, to becoming a big brother. I mourned the loss of exclusive time with you, absent of any distractions, and I mourned your loss of having our undivided attention and love. However, I was reminded time and again that this was an important step in our families lives. You would learn to share the spotlight... our hearts would grow and expand to hold all of our love for you, and for your new little sister. This was an adventure, I'd tell myself... and it will be okay.
Then, just as you'd turned 18 months, your little world was turned upside down. One night, mommy and daddy put you to bed, not knowing it was your last night being alone with them. The next day, you woke up to find Gram and Grandaddy taking care of you. Mommy and Daddy were at the hospital, anxiously awaiting your baby sisters arrival. The next day, you came to visit Mommy and Daddy in the hospital, and met your baby sister for the first time. And since then, you have loved her, and constantly beg to "holdit".
As far as you go, you continue to amaze us with your knowledge and how quickly you pick things up. It took only 15 minutes to teach you where your cheeks were, and you instantly were able to point out everyone else's cheeks. You're starting to put words together now... words like, "daddy shoe" or "daddy tool". You'll break out a "daddy hat" every now and then, and point to "daddy phone" when he's home. Now, if you'll notice a pattern, most of those words are about daddy. The only thing you point out as "mommy's" is the diaper bag or the van. And even then, you don't know the words for bag or van, so it's just "mommy!".
Shepherd, I think the thing I love most about you is the tenderness in your little toddler heart. A few weeks ago, there was a humongous wasp flying around in the kitchen while we ate breakfast. I hate wasps. They sting and hurt. So I took my sandal off, and promptly squashed that sucker flat. You took all of this in, and as soon as I'd killed the wasp, you broke into the most heartbreaking cry. You looked at me in horror, and screamed as I tried to comfort you. You'd have thought I had killed a tiny little kitten, not a venemous, evil wasp! At first I chalked it up to the loud noise of my sandal hitting the window, but then days later, as a big spider scurried across the floor, I stepped on it, and produced the same reaction from you. I guess we won't be telling you that those hot dogs you love to eat are made from "moos" (cows) anytime soon.
But by far, the best thing about this past month has been a renewed perspective of how much you really have grown. After coming home from the hospital, and holding you, I realized how much has changed in 18 months. Time has flown by, and for a moment, that first night home, time stood still as I rocked you in my arms for bed. You curled up on my chest, snuggled your face into my neck, and slowly drifted into sleep. As your breaths grew deeper, knowing you were asleep, I allowed myself a few tears... tears of joy for how much you've grown, yet tears of sorrow for how fast it has gone. I kicked myself for all those moments I had wished you'd just "grow up already!" and held you tight. I promised myself I'd try harder to enjoy each moment... to savor each and every day, because time passes so fast... and before I know it, you'll be a young man, no longer able to sit in my lap and fall asleep.
I love you, Pumpkin... with all of my heart.
Happy 18 months,
Mommy
You turned 18 months old last week (or rather a week and a half ago). As usual, I was behind in writing your letter, and then something unexpected happened. Your baby sister was born 2 weeks early. So here I am, almost 2 weeks late, reflecting over the last month.
Your 18th month was hard for me, since I was GREAT with child. Your energy level had shot through the roof, and keeping up with you proved to be a big challenge. There were mornings I'd wake up crying, knowing I couldn't play all the games you wanted to play. There were nights I'd lie awake wondering how you would handle such a huge transition from being an only child, to becoming a big brother. I mourned the loss of exclusive time with you, absent of any distractions, and I mourned your loss of having our undivided attention and love. However, I was reminded time and again that this was an important step in our families lives. You would learn to share the spotlight... our hearts would grow and expand to hold all of our love for you, and for your new little sister. This was an adventure, I'd tell myself... and it will be okay.
Then, just as you'd turned 18 months, your little world was turned upside down. One night, mommy and daddy put you to bed, not knowing it was your last night being alone with them. The next day, you woke up to find Gram and Grandaddy taking care of you. Mommy and Daddy were at the hospital, anxiously awaiting your baby sisters arrival. The next day, you came to visit Mommy and Daddy in the hospital, and met your baby sister for the first time. And since then, you have loved her, and constantly beg to "holdit".
As far as you go, you continue to amaze us with your knowledge and how quickly you pick things up. It took only 15 minutes to teach you where your cheeks were, and you instantly were able to point out everyone else's cheeks. You're starting to put words together now... words like, "daddy shoe" or "daddy tool". You'll break out a "daddy hat" every now and then, and point to "daddy phone" when he's home. Now, if you'll notice a pattern, most of those words are about daddy. The only thing you point out as "mommy's" is the diaper bag or the van. And even then, you don't know the words for bag or van, so it's just "mommy!".
Shepherd, I think the thing I love most about you is the tenderness in your little toddler heart. A few weeks ago, there was a humongous wasp flying around in the kitchen while we ate breakfast. I hate wasps. They sting and hurt. So I took my sandal off, and promptly squashed that sucker flat. You took all of this in, and as soon as I'd killed the wasp, you broke into the most heartbreaking cry. You looked at me in horror, and screamed as I tried to comfort you. You'd have thought I had killed a tiny little kitten, not a venemous, evil wasp! At first I chalked it up to the loud noise of my sandal hitting the window, but then days later, as a big spider scurried across the floor, I stepped on it, and produced the same reaction from you. I guess we won't be telling you that those hot dogs you love to eat are made from "moos" (cows) anytime soon.
But by far, the best thing about this past month has been a renewed perspective of how much you really have grown. After coming home from the hospital, and holding you, I realized how much has changed in 18 months. Time has flown by, and for a moment, that first night home, time stood still as I rocked you in my arms for bed. You curled up on my chest, snuggled your face into my neck, and slowly drifted into sleep. As your breaths grew deeper, knowing you were asleep, I allowed myself a few tears... tears of joy for how much you've grown, yet tears of sorrow for how fast it has gone. I kicked myself for all those moments I had wished you'd just "grow up already!" and held you tight. I promised myself I'd try harder to enjoy each moment... to savor each and every day, because time passes so fast... and before I know it, you'll be a young man, no longer able to sit in my lap and fall asleep.
I love you, Pumpkin... with all of my heart.
Happy 18 months,
Mommy
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Some Photos!
Thought I'd post some updated photos of the little girl since coming home. She's so beautiful!! Things are going super great, and Shepherd is adjusting quickly to the idea of the "bee-bee" staying here. He wants to go "night-night" with Colette in her crib, he gives her hugs, and this morning, he asked to "holg it" (seriously, Justin, he said "holg it" just like you used to!!). I'm working on the rest of the Birth Story, bear with me... it's a lot harder bloggin this time around! :)
Toes!!
Baby Hair!!!
Cutiepie!!
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Birth Story: Part 1
It started Wednesday morning. I called my friend "J" who was due the day before to see how things were progressing for her. She said after the doctor had stripped her membranes, she'd started having some mild, irregular contractions that had continued until that morning. We planned to meet up at the mall that afternoon to walk, hoping to get her contractions regular and send her into labor. We met and walked for close to 2 hours, stopping from time to time to look around a store or two. We waddled from Sears to Macy's and back again, trying to figure out if she was having contractions (this was her first pregnancy). Finally, Shepherd had enough of the walking while being confined to a stroller, so we wrapped up our walking, and said our goodbyes. As my friend walked away, I joked, "See you at the hospital tonight!!" (Really meaning that I hoped she'd go into labor... I had no intentions of going into labor that night).
On the drive home (around 4), I noticed some contractions, irregular, and strong. I sighed and chalked it up to false labor again. I'd already had several nights with episodes of regular strong contractions lasting several hours only to fizzle out, so I wasn't getting my hopes up. Shepherd and I got home, and started piddling around the house, playing with his toys, and getting supper ready. Around 5, I noticed that my contractions were pretty regular now, and if I guessed, I'd have to say they were about 5 minutes apart, not that I started timing them, because this? This was false labor, my friends. Forrest got home, and insisted we start timing the contractions. They were lasting a minute long, coming 3 1/2 to 4 minutes apart. Again, unconvinced that this was true labor, I waited for another hour. I checked again around 7, and they were still the same interval and length. I'd been timing the contractions for 2 hours, and with them not letting up, decided to call my friend "S" who has 4 children (all under the age of 6), and who also happens to be a nurse. She said for me to drink a ton of water, walk around the block for an hour, and then see if the contractions were still regular. My mom came over, and we walked. The walking only made the contractions come harder and last longer, so after 30 minutes, I was ready for a break. We sat in the living room, and timed them again, with them coming every 3 minutes and lasting a full minute. We timed them for 30 minutes, and then I realized I'd had regular contractions that I'd been timing for 3 hours now (non-timed, 4 hours). I called another friend who is a nurse at my OB, and told her what was happening. She suggested I go on in, as she knew that the Labor and Delivery at the hospital had been packed out lately, and beds were short in number. She said if I wanted an epidural (and boy, oh boy, was I going to want one), I needed to go on in. I hesitated. I still wasn't completely convinced that this was true labor, and even if it was, I probably would be more comfortable at home. But something in the back of my mind reminded me that I would most definitely want that epidural. I showered, packed my things, straightened up. Forrest packed the car, got ready, and we called my parents to comeback over to watch Shepherd.
Once we got in the car, I decided to call my friend "J" to let her know that I was on my way to the hospital, and to see how she was doing. Her husband answered the phone, and let me know that they had been at the hospital since 10 (it was 10:30) and that they'd see us in a little bit. I laughed, not believing the fact that I'd be laboring with my friend. Maybe, just maybe our children would be born on the same day after all!!
On the drive home (around 4), I noticed some contractions, irregular, and strong. I sighed and chalked it up to false labor again. I'd already had several nights with episodes of regular strong contractions lasting several hours only to fizzle out, so I wasn't getting my hopes up. Shepherd and I got home, and started piddling around the house, playing with his toys, and getting supper ready. Around 5, I noticed that my contractions were pretty regular now, and if I guessed, I'd have to say they were about 5 minutes apart, not that I started timing them, because this? This was false labor, my friends. Forrest got home, and insisted we start timing the contractions. They were lasting a minute long, coming 3 1/2 to 4 minutes apart. Again, unconvinced that this was true labor, I waited for another hour. I checked again around 7, and they were still the same interval and length. I'd been timing the contractions for 2 hours, and with them not letting up, decided to call my friend "S" who has 4 children (all under the age of 6), and who also happens to be a nurse. She said for me to drink a ton of water, walk around the block for an hour, and then see if the contractions were still regular. My mom came over, and we walked. The walking only made the contractions come harder and last longer, so after 30 minutes, I was ready for a break. We sat in the living room, and timed them again, with them coming every 3 minutes and lasting a full minute. We timed them for 30 minutes, and then I realized I'd had regular contractions that I'd been timing for 3 hours now (non-timed, 4 hours). I called another friend who is a nurse at my OB, and told her what was happening. She suggested I go on in, as she knew that the Labor and Delivery at the hospital had been packed out lately, and beds were short in number. She said if I wanted an epidural (and boy, oh boy, was I going to want one), I needed to go on in. I hesitated. I still wasn't completely convinced that this was true labor, and even if it was, I probably would be more comfortable at home. But something in the back of my mind reminded me that I would most definitely want that epidural. I showered, packed my things, straightened up. Forrest packed the car, got ready, and we called my parents to comeback over to watch Shepherd.
Once we got in the car, I decided to call my friend "J" to let her know that I was on my way to the hospital, and to see how she was doing. Her husband answered the phone, and let me know that they had been at the hospital since 10 (it was 10:30) and that they'd see us in a little bit. I laughed, not believing the fact that I'd be laboring with my friend. Maybe, just maybe our children would be born on the same day after all!!
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Home!
We're home!!! We were discharged yesterday around 11 am, allowing us to settle in at home. Shepherd is adjusting well to the "bee-bee" and loves running up to her and rubbing her hair, saying "hay!" over and over. Last night, I knelt down beside Shepherd's high chair with Colette so that he could get a better look at her. He grabbed a piece of cheese and tried offering it to her. I smiled, thanked him, and told him Colette couldn't eat cheese yet... that she only drinks milk. He put the cheese back, grabbed his sippy cup, and tried to give it to her. It was the sweetest thing I've ever seen, and I totally lost it crying. :)
So we're home... hopefully, I'll get cranking on the birth story soon. :) Thanks for all of your well wishes and congratulations. They truly mean the world to us.
So we're home... hopefully, I'll get cranking on the birth story soon. :) Thanks for all of your well wishes and congratulations. They truly mean the world to us.
Friday, August 24, 2007
Happy Birthday, Colette!
(This is Forrest, Corinne's husband.)
Just wanted to let everyone know that Colette was born to two ecstatic (and very tired!) parents yesterday at 2:57 pm! She is 7 lbs. 3 oz., 20 inches long, and was born healthy and active.
Corinne is doing wonderfully, as there were no complications, and is already up and about and taking care of the new little one. She will most likely come home sometime tomorrow.
She's already begun writing about the incredible birth story and we have tons of pictures to upload. (Here's a quick pic to pique your appetite!) More to come in the next few days.
Thanks to all for your thoughts and prayers!
Just wanted to let everyone know that Colette was born to two ecstatic (and very tired!) parents yesterday at 2:57 pm! She is 7 lbs. 3 oz., 20 inches long, and was born healthy and active.
Corinne is doing wonderfully, as there were no complications, and is already up and about and taking care of the new little one. She will most likely come home sometime tomorrow.
She's already begun writing about the incredible birth story and we have tons of pictures to upload. (Here's a quick pic to pique your appetite!) More to come in the next few days.
Thanks to all for your thoughts and prayers!
Thursday, August 23, 2007
this is it! UPDATED!!
hello everyone, this is corinne's brother, justin. i'm updating you all on corinne's status, and the first thing to say is that she has been admitted at the hospital in winston-salem. last i spoke with her, she was 3 cm. dilated and 50% effaced, which means the time is most likely upon us. i'm waiting to hear word from them again, but i'm sure i'll be updating this as soon as i get word. so we're just getting ready to welcome the new baby girl into our lives!
ok so i'm talking to corinne right now. as of 1 pm, she's 7 cm. dilated, 90% effaced, plus 1 station. the doctors started a little bit of pitocin because labor was slowing down. everyone is doing fine, and corinne says "this is a much better birthing experience than the last one, even though the last one was good."
check back for more updates throughout the day.
ok so i'm talking to corinne right now. as of 1 pm, she's 7 cm. dilated, 90% effaced, plus 1 station. the doctors started a little bit of pitocin because labor was slowing down. everyone is doing fine, and corinne says "this is a much better birthing experience than the last one, even though the last one was good."
check back for more updates throughout the day.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
37 weeks
First off, a hearty congrats are in order for Reesh and Devinder (and of course little Lily) over at 2 Pink Lines on the birth of their second daughter, Nadia. I have to say, I'm awfully jealous of the name, since it was my number one pick for a girls name, but didn't sit right with Forrest. :) So congratulations to you all!
Second off, I'm finally full term. Which means my body has kicked into high gear with all sorts of contractions. In fact, yesterday, I had a day full of semi-regular contractions. They tapered off towards the afternoon, only to ramp up again last night. The PA at my doctor's office checked me at my appointment yesterday, and said the baby was low (between -2 and -1 station), my cervix is still thick, and I'm a "fingertip" dilated. So... there's some progress. Today I haven't had many contractions, but the few I've had were intense and put a lot of pressure on my pelvic girdle. So, we'll see when it all happens.
My mother-in-law and father-in-law are placing bets on when the baby will be born (not literally, yo, just for bragging rights) and I thought, why not include you guys in on the game?
Cathy has voted for August 28th.
Jim, for September 1.
Bear in mind, my due date is September 7, that Shepherd was born right on time, and that there's a full moon on the 28th. That is all information they are privy too, so you now have all the information needed to make an educated guess as to the birth date.
Hey, I may even throw in a nice little surprise... a gift card to somewhere or something like that. So, happy guessing!! And here's hoping I don't have to wait 3 more weeks in this heat to see this baby. :)
Second off, I'm finally full term. Which means my body has kicked into high gear with all sorts of contractions. In fact, yesterday, I had a day full of semi-regular contractions. They tapered off towards the afternoon, only to ramp up again last night. The PA at my doctor's office checked me at my appointment yesterday, and said the baby was low (between -2 and -1 station), my cervix is still thick, and I'm a "fingertip" dilated. So... there's some progress. Today I haven't had many contractions, but the few I've had were intense and put a lot of pressure on my pelvic girdle. So, we'll see when it all happens.
My mother-in-law and father-in-law are placing bets on when the baby will be born (not literally, yo, just for bragging rights) and I thought, why not include you guys in on the game?
Cathy has voted for August 28th.
Jim, for September 1.
Bear in mind, my due date is September 7, that Shepherd was born right on time, and that there's a full moon on the 28th. That is all information they are privy too, so you now have all the information needed to make an educated guess as to the birth date.
Hey, I may even throw in a nice little surprise... a gift card to somewhere or something like that. So, happy guessing!! And here's hoping I don't have to wait 3 more weeks in this heat to see this baby. :)
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Early Riser
So, usually I wouldn't complain about it being 7:20 am and being wide awake. If you'd asked me a month or so ago, I'd have told you it was pure heaven to sleep until 7:00. But see, the thing is, Shepherd has been sleeping in until 8 or 8:30, and some days even 9:00. I know... you hate me, right? And today, I'm really not complaining about Shepherd waking earlier, because really, that would be incredibly unfair.
Today... I'm annoyed at the neighbors stupid burgler alarm that went off at 6:20 this morning, and didn't stop for a good 10 minutes. So I've been up since then, unable to go back to sleep... yet trying so hard, as Shepherd was still sleeping. But now, as it's 7:30, I can hear him through the monitor, talking and laughing at his toys. I know I should go get him... but would it be so bad to let him play in there until he gets cranky? Because these eyes? Just won't stay open any longer.....
Today... I'm annoyed at the neighbors stupid burgler alarm that went off at 6:20 this morning, and didn't stop for a good 10 minutes. So I've been up since then, unable to go back to sleep... yet trying so hard, as Shepherd was still sleeping. But now, as it's 7:30, I can hear him through the monitor, talking and laughing at his toys. I know I should go get him... but would it be so bad to let him play in there until he gets cranky? Because these eyes? Just won't stay open any longer.....
Monday, August 06, 2007
Hot and Hott
So last week, while hanging out with some friends at Starbucks, I was suddenly struck by the urge to, well... you know, potty. I get up, and there in the seat is the most beautiful ass-print of sweat. I'm totally rocking the ass-sweat look these days, it's HOTT!
I bring this up because it's a relatively new thing to me, this butt sweat thing. I've poured over my archives with my first pregnancy, and nowhere do I mention the massive amounts of sweat that pour out of my body. I'm guessing it has something to do with the fact that my 9th month being pregnant was in January, and this time around, it's smack dab in the middle of August. Not only so, but it is HOT outside. This week temperatures are supposed to soar into the upper 90's (Wednesday, 98 degrees... heat index 104) (I'm sweating right now just thinking about it).
It's so hot, that I'm only taking cold showers now, and even those I'm dreading because I have to blow dry my hair. Yes, I have to. Otherwise, it'd be days before my hair would dry, and even then, it develops this funky smell and feel to it. So on the days that I do shower (which isn't often enough) (I know, you were just DYING to know that) my internal thermostat gets so out of whack that I can't seem to get cool. Just last week, I almost passed out at church from the heat... even though everyone else said it was rather cold in the building. The doctor checked me out Monday and said he thought it was a combination of heat, the baby not dropping and sitting in my ribcage, and sitting down that did it, so no more Sunday morning showers for me.
In other news, the baby seems to have dropped. We'll find out Friday if any progress is being made, but I've had some pretty rough Braxton Hicks contractions, accompanied by some wonderful pelvic pain from the baby engaging. I keep hoping that I'll be a little early, but then I realize that these last few weeks are the last weeks that Shepherd will have my full attention... so I'm trying to give him 100% attention and do as much as I can with him, which is getting harder and harder to do, being 9 months pregnant and all.
Well, I'm going to go curl up in front of the fan on our bed and take a quick nap while the little man is down for his. I'd better enjoy the rest while I can!!
I bring this up because it's a relatively new thing to me, this butt sweat thing. I've poured over my archives with my first pregnancy, and nowhere do I mention the massive amounts of sweat that pour out of my body. I'm guessing it has something to do with the fact that my 9th month being pregnant was in January, and this time around, it's smack dab in the middle of August. Not only so, but it is HOT outside. This week temperatures are supposed to soar into the upper 90's (Wednesday, 98 degrees... heat index 104) (I'm sweating right now just thinking about it).
It's so hot, that I'm only taking cold showers now, and even those I'm dreading because I have to blow dry my hair. Yes, I have to. Otherwise, it'd be days before my hair would dry, and even then, it develops this funky smell and feel to it. So on the days that I do shower (which isn't often enough) (I know, you were just DYING to know that) my internal thermostat gets so out of whack that I can't seem to get cool. Just last week, I almost passed out at church from the heat... even though everyone else said it was rather cold in the building. The doctor checked me out Monday and said he thought it was a combination of heat, the baby not dropping and sitting in my ribcage, and sitting down that did it, so no more Sunday morning showers for me.
In other news, the baby seems to have dropped. We'll find out Friday if any progress is being made, but I've had some pretty rough Braxton Hicks contractions, accompanied by some wonderful pelvic pain from the baby engaging. I keep hoping that I'll be a little early, but then I realize that these last few weeks are the last weeks that Shepherd will have my full attention... so I'm trying to give him 100% attention and do as much as I can with him, which is getting harder and harder to do, being 9 months pregnant and all.
Well, I'm going to go curl up in front of the fan on our bed and take a quick nap while the little man is down for his. I'd better enjoy the rest while I can!!
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Friday, July 20, 2007
17 months
Shepherd,
I sit here typing this as you sit beside me, eating your breakfast and chatting away. Some of what you say makes sense, and other words are just groups of syllables strung together that sound convincingly like a foreign language. At times, you talk about the man in the picture hanging on our dining room wall, the one of the old man with a beard praying. You used to point to him and make your sign for beard, and smile proudly. Lately, however, you've been pointing to him and signing "bear", which is comical, since I'm sure if the old man were real, he'd be quite burly and bear-like.
The other day, I bought you a pair of knock-off crocs (yes, mommy is cheap and refused to pay $25 for a pair of shoes you'll outgrow in no time). You absolutely adore these shoes, and each morning, you wake up chanting "sue! sue! sue!" By the time I reach your room, and get you out of bed, you're begging to put them on. You love all shoes, quickly pointing out our shoes, and always trying to put our discarded shoes back on our feet. There is one problem, however. Your feet can get quite smelly during the course of the day. This has led to a fun game at diaper time, where I take your shoes off, smell them, and proclaim "stinky!!" You love this game, and you try so hard to put the two words together. Last week, you succeeded as you removed your shoe, smelled it, and proclaimed "stinky sue!!"
Your climbing skills have accelerated so fast, that I can't keep up with you anymore. I've found you standing atop the coffee table, dancing on the kitchen table, and most recently, scaling the brick wall in our sunroom, only to perch yourself precariously on the window ledge. I beyond terrified to find you there, and it prompted numerous neurotic google searches on "when to transition from crib to bed". I'm terrified you'll climb out of your crib and fall and hurt yourself, however, you've shown no interest in climbing out of your crib, and are usually content to be in there. However, those google searches did show me that you are growing up so incredibly fast. You're one month away from being 18 months... exactly one and a half years... and I'm amazed at all that has changed.
I'm so excited to be a part of this journey with you. I'm blessed to be with you daily, to watch you grow, learn, and explore the world around you. I could not have asked for anything more fulfilling than this... being your mommy. I love you little man.
Happy 17 months!
-"Nonny"
I sit here typing this as you sit beside me, eating your breakfast and chatting away. Some of what you say makes sense, and other words are just groups of syllables strung together that sound convincingly like a foreign language. At times, you talk about the man in the picture hanging on our dining room wall, the one of the old man with a beard praying. You used to point to him and make your sign for beard, and smile proudly. Lately, however, you've been pointing to him and signing "bear", which is comical, since I'm sure if the old man were real, he'd be quite burly and bear-like.
The other day, I bought you a pair of knock-off crocs (yes, mommy is cheap and refused to pay $25 for a pair of shoes you'll outgrow in no time). You absolutely adore these shoes, and each morning, you wake up chanting "sue! sue! sue!" By the time I reach your room, and get you out of bed, you're begging to put them on. You love all shoes, quickly pointing out our shoes, and always trying to put our discarded shoes back on our feet. There is one problem, however. Your feet can get quite smelly during the course of the day. This has led to a fun game at diaper time, where I take your shoes off, smell them, and proclaim "stinky!!" You love this game, and you try so hard to put the two words together. Last week, you succeeded as you removed your shoe, smelled it, and proclaimed "stinky sue!!"
Your climbing skills have accelerated so fast, that I can't keep up with you anymore. I've found you standing atop the coffee table, dancing on the kitchen table, and most recently, scaling the brick wall in our sunroom, only to perch yourself precariously on the window ledge. I beyond terrified to find you there, and it prompted numerous neurotic google searches on "when to transition from crib to bed". I'm terrified you'll climb out of your crib and fall and hurt yourself, however, you've shown no interest in climbing out of your crib, and are usually content to be in there. However, those google searches did show me that you are growing up so incredibly fast. You're one month away from being 18 months... exactly one and a half years... and I'm amazed at all that has changed.
I'm so excited to be a part of this journey with you. I'm blessed to be with you daily, to watch you grow, learn, and explore the world around you. I could not have asked for anything more fulfilling than this... being your mommy. I love you little man.
Happy 17 months!
-"Nonny"
Monday, July 16, 2007
Prayers
Please be praying for Sam and baby Thomas. For an update on both of them, click over to Debi's site.
Monday News
Because I'm lazy... we're doing bullets today:
-Click over to It's a Wonderful Life!! for some awesomely awesome news from Sam at Sunday School Rebel.
-Shepherd has chickenpox. Yes... he was vaccinated. No... I don't know where he go it. Yes... it's a mild case. Thankfully it doesn't seem to be bothering him too much.
-My 32 week checkup was today. I'm measuring 33 weeks, and my cervix is "soft". Perhaps my hunch that this lil' one will be a tad early is correct. We'll see. Everything checked out fine, and I've been instructed by the OB to find a pool and swim 3 days a week to relieve the pelvic pain I've been having. You don't have to tell me twice!! :)
-Our house is immaculatly clean. Forrest and I spent all day Saturday cleaning. The only thing that's out of place is the two piles of laundry to be folded that are on my couch. Once they're gone... my house will be perfect. Let's see how long this'll last.
-Hearty congratulations to Chris and Beth who sold their house.
-Shepherd is still down for a nap, so I'm going to go catch a few zz's before he wakes up. Hope you all are having a wonderful Monday!!
-Click over to It's a Wonderful Life!! for some awesomely awesome news from Sam at Sunday School Rebel.
-Shepherd has chickenpox. Yes... he was vaccinated. No... I don't know where he go it. Yes... it's a mild case. Thankfully it doesn't seem to be bothering him too much.
-My 32 week checkup was today. I'm measuring 33 weeks, and my cervix is "soft". Perhaps my hunch that this lil' one will be a tad early is correct. We'll see. Everything checked out fine, and I've been instructed by the OB to find a pool and swim 3 days a week to relieve the pelvic pain I've been having. You don't have to tell me twice!! :)
-Our house is immaculatly clean. Forrest and I spent all day Saturday cleaning. The only thing that's out of place is the two piles of laundry to be folded that are on my couch. Once they're gone... my house will be perfect. Let's see how long this'll last.
-Hearty congratulations to Chris and Beth who sold their house.
-Shepherd is still down for a nap, so I'm going to go catch a few zz's before he wakes up. Hope you all are having a wonderful Monday!!
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Wide Open
This past week has been a crazy week. Crazy-good, not crazy-bad. Shepherd is more and more mobile (if it's possible) and runs until he is worn slap out. I mentioned the climbing yesterday, which is still going on, and then there's the running. Lord have mercy, the running. I watched him this morning as he ran around the playground, and it honestly looked as though his feet never touched the ground. He is so fast, and wide open. Yes, there are moments I gripe and complain about how active he is, but for the most part, I am so grateful for his energy. He keeps me busy (which I so desperately need) in addition to keeping me in shape. I had a co-worker of my mother's tell me today that I was one of the few pregnant women she'd seen actually get skinnier while I was pregnant. Granted, she didn't mean I was fat before, what she meant was that I'm all belly, and every other part of me seems to have either shrunk due to weight loss, or shrunk in comparison with the monstrous belly that I have. It's true... I feel huge, even though I have 57 more days to go (roughly 8 weeks). The only downside to getting huge is that it is harder and harder to keep up with the little man. I'm wanting to chase him around the house, to crawl around with him, and play, but more and more, it's difficult to get down on the ground and then get back up. Not only so, but by late evening, I'm so sore around my pelvic girdle, it's all I can do to get undressed. Have any of you gone through this with a very active toddler while pregnant? Any suggestions on things to do (bearing in mind the TV does nothing for him, and neither does quiet sit-down activities such as drawing or puzzles)? I try to get out and do something every day, mostly for my own sanity. If we do decide to stay home, I usually find my house in complete disarray by days end, books strewn everywhere, toys littered throughout the house, making pick-up a not so pleasant task (remember? the pelvic pain?). My options right now mostly involve the play area at the mall that's fenced in. I'm debating having Forrest and my Dad fence off the backyard (which wouldn't take TOO much to do, as one side is already fenced in). I'd love to go to the park, but Shepherd's way faster than I am, and I cannot keep up with him. Maybe one of these days, we'll get a jungle gym type thing for the backyard, get the yard fenced in, and I can just watch him run and run and run from the comfort of my own backyard, while sipping virgin daquari's and enjoying my huge, pregnant belly.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
T-R-O-U-B-L-E
Shepherd has totally figured out how to climb onto the coffee table in the living room. Not only does he do this, but he'll get up there, spin in circles getting dizzy, completely unaware of the dangers of being dizzy at such heights. Oh yeah, and this morning I caught him on the kitchen table, after turning my back for 10 seconds to stir the oatmeal on the stove. Am I screwed or what?
Monday, July 02, 2007
Weekend Recap
This past weekend, we traveled to the mountains of NC for a little getaway with my parents. We took Shepherd along not really knowing what to expect. He was wonderful. I am constantly amazed at my son and his ability to engage people. We had so much fun playing with him, and just resting in the little cabin on the side of the mountain. It didn't matter that Shepherd had a nasty cold, I had bronchitis, and Forrest was getting the same cold Shepherd had... we were on the side of a mountain, with a beautiful view of the valley below. We spent time reading, hanging out, watching reruns of LOST (we officially got my parents hooked), and taught Forrest how to play Rook. How anyone goes through life not knowing how to play Rook is beyond me, but nonetheless, he picked up fast, and we had a fun time playing a few hands (although, we still need to play a "real" game, cut-throat and all).
This morning, after Shepherd slept in until 8:40am (I KNOW!!! He actually slept in!), we headed to the pediatric opthomologist. We'd noticed that one of his eyes seemed to be wandering and at times, he appeared cross-eyed. My mother, my father, and my mother-in-law had all noticed too, so I knew it wasn't just my own paranoia. We took him in, and got his wee little eyes checked. Turns out he has Pseudostrabismus, a condition where it only appears he has crossed eyes, but in reality, he doesn't. Everything checked out wonderfully, including his eye exam to check for other problems. Poor thing had to have his eyes dialated. The nurse had me fill out paperwork, while Forrest took Shepherd in with the nurse for the eyedrops. I don't know what was worse, being in the room holding Shepherd while he screamed, or hearing his screams through the closed door as I filled out paperwork. I'm sure they were both equally horrific. But in the end, everything was fine, and we were relieved to find out my son has no vision troubles. :)
Well, little man is waking up from his nap... hopefully, his eyes have started to go back to normal and we can go outside! :)
This morning, after Shepherd slept in until 8:40am (I KNOW!!! He actually slept in!), we headed to the pediatric opthomologist. We'd noticed that one of his eyes seemed to be wandering and at times, he appeared cross-eyed. My mother, my father, and my mother-in-law had all noticed too, so I knew it wasn't just my own paranoia. We took him in, and got his wee little eyes checked. Turns out he has Pseudostrabismus, a condition where it only appears he has crossed eyes, but in reality, he doesn't. Everything checked out wonderfully, including his eye exam to check for other problems. Poor thing had to have his eyes dialated. The nurse had me fill out paperwork, while Forrest took Shepherd in with the nurse for the eyedrops. I don't know what was worse, being in the room holding Shepherd while he screamed, or hearing his screams through the closed door as I filled out paperwork. I'm sure they were both equally horrific. But in the end, everything was fine, and we were relieved to find out my son has no vision troubles. :)
Well, little man is waking up from his nap... hopefully, his eyes have started to go back to normal and we can go outside! :)
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
16 months
Dear Shepherd,
Last week you turned 16 months old. The further along we go, the closer these months seem to come together. This past month has been filled with fun. You constantly want to go outside and run around or play in the pool. Your energy has just shot through the roof, and you run at breakneck speeds across the yard, through the house, or wherever else your little feet will carry you. It's hard for mommy to keep up with you, especially with the growing baby in mommy's tummy.
You have learned a lot of new words this month, and you're even better at communicating with us than ever before. When asked what mommy has in her belly, you make the sign for baby. We're not sure you completely understand the concept of a baby in mommy's belly, but you often will pat my belly and smile at me. This week wee pulled out a lot of old baby toys such as the swing and the bouncy chair, and you've had a blast playing with them. You'll often grab a book and sit in your swing reading the book. So many changes are ahead of you as your little sister plans to make her grand entrance, and sometimes I worry about how you'll adjust. I know you'll love her, as you're so good with other kids and other babies. I guess I'm most worried about how you'll handle the change in attention you get. As much as I'm looking forward to your sister getting here, I'm also trying every moment to hold you close, and give you extra love, as I know the days of you being an only child are numbered.
This month you've really enjoyed the water. We're very excited about this as it seemed for a while you were terrified of the water in your bathtub. With the introduction of your pool, the sprinkler, and the ocean, you have completely overcome your fear and now are totally enthralled with any type of water. You would spend hours in the pool if I let you, climbing in and out, and then back in again. You run through the sprinkler giggling and squeeling, hands up in the air trying to catch the water. The ocean, however, has proved to be your favorite. You absolutely love the sand and the waves, and you run through the water stomping your feet and splashing everyone around.
Shepherd, you continue to amaze me. Being with you every day is such a joy, it's hard to imagine my life without you.
Your smile is so contagious, and your laugh, whoa boy, your laugh makes my heart just explode within my chest. You are constantly amazing us, and constantly changing. I love you so very much,
Happy 16 months, Doodlebug,
Love,
Mommy
Last week you turned 16 months old. The further along we go, the closer these months seem to come together. This past month has been filled with fun. You constantly want to go outside and run around or play in the pool. Your energy has just shot through the roof, and you run at breakneck speeds across the yard, through the house, or wherever else your little feet will carry you. It's hard for mommy to keep up with you, especially with the growing baby in mommy's tummy.
You have learned a lot of new words this month, and you're even better at communicating with us than ever before. When asked what mommy has in her belly, you make the sign for baby. We're not sure you completely understand the concept of a baby in mommy's belly, but you often will pat my belly and smile at me. This week wee pulled out a lot of old baby toys such as the swing and the bouncy chair, and you've had a blast playing with them. You'll often grab a book and sit in your swing reading the book. So many changes are ahead of you as your little sister plans to make her grand entrance, and sometimes I worry about how you'll adjust. I know you'll love her, as you're so good with other kids and other babies. I guess I'm most worried about how you'll handle the change in attention you get. As much as I'm looking forward to your sister getting here, I'm also trying every moment to hold you close, and give you extra love, as I know the days of you being an only child are numbered.
This month you've really enjoyed the water. We're very excited about this as it seemed for a while you were terrified of the water in your bathtub. With the introduction of your pool, the sprinkler, and the ocean, you have completely overcome your fear and now are totally enthralled with any type of water. You would spend hours in the pool if I let you, climbing in and out, and then back in again. You run through the sprinkler giggling and squeeling, hands up in the air trying to catch the water. The ocean, however, has proved to be your favorite. You absolutely love the sand and the waves, and you run through the water stomping your feet and splashing everyone around.
Shepherd, you continue to amaze me. Being with you every day is such a joy, it's hard to imagine my life without you.
Your smile is so contagious, and your laugh, whoa boy, your laugh makes my heart just explode within my chest. You are constantly amazing us, and constantly changing. I love you so very much,
Happy 16 months, Doodlebug,
Love,
Mommy
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