I don't know what day it is, but the evening before last wasn't great. Milo had his first vomit... not spit up, but vomit episode. Basically he gagged himself trying to find his thumb... and I think that just tickled his gag reflex. We were in the car when it happened and I pretty much freaked out. That kind of sent me back down into the pits. Then we had a rough night. So yesterday was another more difficult kind of day.
However, last night Milo slept from 9 pm- 9:30 am. He was awake for about two and a half hours from 2:30-5:00 but even with that I got 9 hours of sleep! Needless to say, today has been a good day. We even got our first non-family visitor today. My friend Kendra came over with her baby girl, which was so nice. Oh and I paid bills this morning before Milo even woke up!
I'm definitely learning that lack of sleep and other anxieties trigger the blues. I'm hoping as we have more good nights, I'll be able to better handle the other stressors as they come up. Tomorrow I have my two week follow up from the C and I am meeting with my midwife just to talk about the Baby Blues I have been experiencing. I want to make sure I have all the support I need when my mom leaves. And I thought she might have some tips for dealing with the blues.
And while we knew Milo loved being outside in the warm air, I learned today that he also really enjoys the Baby Bjorn carrier. Mommy also enjoyed this. Now I cannot wait to try out my Moby wrap (Thanks Haneys!)
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Sleep... I'm getting some.
Nathan & Milo
Kelly & Milo
I promise I won't be posting about how each night went, but we did have another great night. I'm starting to get a good grasp of what his night time hours are. I think I had been waiting a bit too long before putting him in his pajamas... and would end up stimulating him too much during his night time. The last couple nights his night time hours seem to be from about 9-9. I don't know if that is normal, but that's what they are. And (knock on wood) he seems to be on the proper daytime/night time schedule where he is awake more during the day.
Last night I put him to bed about 9:30 pm and he woke up at 12:00 am, then went back down around 1:00 am. Then he was up again at 5:00 am, then back down at 5:15. Then he slept until 9:00 am. And each time, I pretty much put him back down and he feel asleep right away. All that to say, I got about 8-9 hours of sleep! Who knew that was possible with an almost two week old?
He also showed an interest in music today. He was fussing quite a bit, and Nathan started playing some of our favorite music and he listened so contently for about 15 minutes or so. Maybe those songs are familiar from hearing them in the womb?!
And while having him sleep in the swing is allowing everyone to sleep, I am getting anxious to transition him into the crib... I'm hoping that can begin within the next couple weeks. Especially since we won't be able to take the swing with us on our trip to Morgantown and Bowling Green at the end of July. So we do have a bit of a deadline for getting him transitioned.
As always, thank you for your support and prayers.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Better Days
The past two days have gone much smoother. I'd say I've gone from emotionally fragile, to somewhat stable. :) I'm back to nursing with the nipple shield, and I'm continuing to heal very well. I'll continue to use the shield until Monday when I meet with my lactation consultant again. If she thinks we are good to lose the shield, then we will. I also want her to start with me from square one, and assume I know nothing about nursing. I definitely don't want to go down this road again. But I'm definitely feeling encouraged at this point. I'm still glad my Mom is staying for a week longer. Even if I have things under control with taking care of Milo... I think having a transitional few days is going to be extremely valuable, especially considering I'm still recovering from the C. And last night went well. I covered all the feedings/changes during the night and still probably ended up with five or six hours of sleep.
And as I mentioned before, we are trying to get out of the house at least once a day. This morning we ventured down to the Farmers Market just before they were packing up. It was a quick little outing, but nice. Then we headed to Walmart where I did my first car feeding. That's right... my first car feeding was in the Walmart parking lot.
And as I mentioned before, we are trying to get out of the house at least once a day. This morning we ventured down to the Farmers Market just before they were packing up. It was a quick little outing, but nice. Then we headed to Walmart where I did my first car feeding. That's right... my first car feeding was in the Walmart parking lot.
Friday, June 25, 2010
And yes... those of you who said 'pregnancy brain' only gets worse after you have the baby were right. I have forgot to put deodorant on twice now. I'm going to have to print off a checklist of things to do before I leave the house; 1. Brush Teeth 2. Take shower 3. Use deodorant 4. Put on clothes etc.
Happy Post
I'm feeling good and well rested, and Milo is asleep on my lap. I decided now would be a perfect time to post some of the things Milo is doing and some of the many things we are enjoying about him.
The newest thing is that Milo found his thumb this morning. From the time he was born he always had his hands by his mouth or in his mouth. And he was always trying to get that thumb in his mouth to suck on. He finally got it in this morning. He had his hand completely open with all of his fingers spread... it was pretty funny looking.
Milo loves to snuggle and nuzzle his Momma. And I think he is becoming more responsive to the kisses. He'll just kind of open his mouth and nuzzle me back... and then my heart melts.
He is also very strong. He has amazing head control and has started to push on his legs. He definitely seems older than a one and a half week old, but I guess that's what two extra weeks in the womb will get ya. Even our lactation consultant said, "That is not a newborn," and I imagine she has seen here fair share of babies.
I think I said before he loves having his diaper changed, and I can now swaddle him at night without (him) crying.
He definitely has Nathan's wrinkly forehead. When I raise my eye brows, I don't have any wrinkles... when Nathan and Milo do it, their foreheads get about six vertical wrinkles... super cute.
His current nicknames are "Piglet" because he snorts when he does his hungry cry... even before its a big cry he starts snorting. I also call him Boo Boo. I have no clue where that came from... it just came out and stuck.
I don't think he has lost any of his hair which makes this Momma very happy. Although there is a redish tint to his eye brows which I have in my hair in the sunlight. So his hair may or may not end up as dark as Nathan's.
We made our first trip to Target yesterday, which Milo slept through. We've been trying to get out of the house at least once a day. I think I really need that for my mental health. And we've done a good bit of sitting outside in the evenings, which Milo seems to really enjoy.
Milo also enjoys looking at the decorations I have on the wall. One wall has a large rectangle painting surrounded by four round things if various sizes. I think he can make out the shapes with the contrast against the white wall. And he eyes will sometimes go crossed which is also really cute (and pretty funny.)
I think that does it for now. Again thanks for your continued support and encouragement. Catherine- I like what you said about survival mode. So true. Our goal was to start him out in the crib, but has been happily sleeping in the swing. We'll make that transition later!
*I'm getting pretty quick at one handed and left handed typing!
The newest thing is that Milo found his thumb this morning. From the time he was born he always had his hands by his mouth or in his mouth. And he was always trying to get that thumb in his mouth to suck on. He finally got it in this morning. He had his hand completely open with all of his fingers spread... it was pretty funny looking.
Milo loves to snuggle and nuzzle his Momma. And I think he is becoming more responsive to the kisses. He'll just kind of open his mouth and nuzzle me back... and then my heart melts.
He is also very strong. He has amazing head control and has started to push on his legs. He definitely seems older than a one and a half week old, but I guess that's what two extra weeks in the womb will get ya. Even our lactation consultant said, "That is not a newborn," and I imagine she has seen here fair share of babies.
I think I said before he loves having his diaper changed, and I can now swaddle him at night without (him) crying.
He definitely has Nathan's wrinkly forehead. When I raise my eye brows, I don't have any wrinkles... when Nathan and Milo do it, their foreheads get about six vertical wrinkles... super cute.
His current nicknames are "Piglet" because he snorts when he does his hungry cry... even before its a big cry he starts snorting. I also call him Boo Boo. I have no clue where that came from... it just came out and stuck.
I don't think he has lost any of his hair which makes this Momma very happy. Although there is a redish tint to his eye brows which I have in my hair in the sunlight. So his hair may or may not end up as dark as Nathan's.
We made our first trip to Target yesterday, which Milo slept through. We've been trying to get out of the house at least once a day. I think I really need that for my mental health. And we've done a good bit of sitting outside in the evenings, which Milo seems to really enjoy.
Milo also enjoys looking at the decorations I have on the wall. One wall has a large rectangle painting surrounded by four round things if various sizes. I think he can make out the shapes with the contrast against the white wall. And he eyes will sometimes go crossed which is also really cute (and pretty funny.)
I think that does it for now. Again thanks for your continued support and encouragement. Catherine- I like what you said about survival mode. So true. Our goal was to start him out in the crib, but has been happily sleeping in the swing. We'll make that transition later!
*I'm getting pretty quick at one handed and left handed typing!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Worth It
While nursing is proving to be quite the challenge, our nights have been going quite well. Since I have been pumping to let myself heal, Mom, Nathan, and I were all able to take a feeding. I still had to get up each time to pump, but it was better than getting up to feed him, then still have to pump. Once I can get back to regular nursing without the shield getting up three or four times will be a piece of cake.
I have had a few women share their difficult nursing experiences with me, and I really appreciate it. It helps knowing that I am not the only person who is or has struggled with nursing. I know we will overcome these challenges. Its definitely just frustrating. But Milo is worth ever hurdle from IVF, a traumatic labor, and nursing problems... I will take it all for my son.
I think I also have a touch of the Baby Blues. Definitely not Postpartum Depression level, but just very emotionally fragile. I don't feel ready for visitors and even phone calls are difficult. I'm just grateful for my parents and Nathan. They have been very supportive and encouraging. Dad is going back to BG, but Mom is going to stay for one more week. I wish I didn't need her to stay, but I do. She has been taking care of me, so that I can focus on taking care of Milo.
Having a baby has definitely been humbling. I have always been pretty independent. From the help I needed in the hospital to the help I need now at home... I've learned that asking and taking help is not a sign of weakness. Its a sign of survival. I know that for Milo's sake, I need to get and accept help when I need it.
And on a lighter note... we are seeing early signs of Nathan's personality coming out in Milo. No one likes a dirty butt, but Milo gets VERY unhappy when he is dirty. The minute we take off the dirty diaper he stops crying and happily allows us to clean him. I've never seen a baby enjoy having their diaper changed more than Milo. I'm thinking Milo may end up having Nathan's cleaning genes. I'm definitely not going to complain. :)
I have had a few women share their difficult nursing experiences with me, and I really appreciate it. It helps knowing that I am not the only person who is or has struggled with nursing. I know we will overcome these challenges. Its definitely just frustrating. But Milo is worth ever hurdle from IVF, a traumatic labor, and nursing problems... I will take it all for my son.
I think I also have a touch of the Baby Blues. Definitely not Postpartum Depression level, but just very emotionally fragile. I don't feel ready for visitors and even phone calls are difficult. I'm just grateful for my parents and Nathan. They have been very supportive and encouraging. Dad is going back to BG, but Mom is going to stay for one more week. I wish I didn't need her to stay, but I do. She has been taking care of me, so that I can focus on taking care of Milo.
Having a baby has definitely been humbling. I have always been pretty independent. From the help I needed in the hospital to the help I need now at home... I've learned that asking and taking help is not a sign of weakness. Its a sign of survival. I know that for Milo's sake, I need to get and accept help when I need it.
And on a lighter note... we are seeing early signs of Nathan's personality coming out in Milo. No one likes a dirty butt, but Milo gets VERY unhappy when he is dirty. The minute we take off the dirty diaper he stops crying and happily allows us to clean him. I've never seen a baby enjoy having their diaper changed more than Milo. I'm thinking Milo may end up having Nathan's cleaning genes. I'm definitely not going to complain. :)
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Nursing (Caution Potential TMI)
This post may contain Too Much Information. But as always, I feel it is important to be honest and open.
My last post about nursing indicated it takes great determination, and I am finding that out now more than ever.
Its hard to know what is normal, and what is not. How sore do you have to be before it signals a potential problem?
When we left the hospital nursing was going very well. Milo's weight gain demonstrated I am producing good milk and he is eating it very well. I felt like we were on the right track. Well over the past few days my nipples became cracked and bleeding. Nursing quickly became extremely painful. That is when I knew I really needed to seek help. So I met with our lactation consultant who made me aware of the fact that my nipples were more damaged than I even realized.
I think after I was on my own at home, my positioning was off just slightly. Milo was still able to eat just fine, but it was taking a huge toll on me. Our lactation consultant helped me see where my mistake was and showed me how to fix it. Nathan ran out, on the spot, and bought a nipple shield which is a frustrating but life saving contraption. The nipple shield took the pressure off of the nipple, so I could still nurse without the toe curling pain. Milo will suck on anything, so while it annoys all of us, we're still able to nurse. I was also prescribed a healing nipple cream that will cause healing beyond what the mild Lansinoh can do. But our lactation consultant also thought it would be a good idea to pump for the next 24-48 hours to give myself a chance to heal.
Now I love nursing my son. And I was initially fearful that pumping and bottle feeding for a day or so could potentially hinder future nursing. But after evaluating Milo's eating... we all decided it shouldn't be a problem. Our lactation consultant gave us a Madela hand pump, and sure enough it worked very well. I was able to pump twice so far today. And Milo took the bottle without hesitation. My plan at this point is to pump/bottle feed twice, then nurse once, then repeat. That way we are still keeping up with the nursing. And after I begin to heal and take away the bottle... I am certain Milo, my little piglet, will go back to exclusive nursing. He's not the kind of baby who won't eat just because he doesn't like what is giving him the milk. She also confirmed that giving Milo the pacifiers is almost a necessity at this point.
I'm still at risk for infection, so I may end up on a preventative antibiotic. But we are confident that if we focus on my healing, I'll still be able to nurse Milo.
Emotionally, I'm still adjusting. There is a lot to process, and its hard to process the whole experience on such sleep deprivation. But I have great support, so whenever the tears start flowing... I have someone there to pick me up.
My last post about nursing indicated it takes great determination, and I am finding that out now more than ever.
Its hard to know what is normal, and what is not. How sore do you have to be before it signals a potential problem?
When we left the hospital nursing was going very well. Milo's weight gain demonstrated I am producing good milk and he is eating it very well. I felt like we were on the right track. Well over the past few days my nipples became cracked and bleeding. Nursing quickly became extremely painful. That is when I knew I really needed to seek help. So I met with our lactation consultant who made me aware of the fact that my nipples were more damaged than I even realized.
I think after I was on my own at home, my positioning was off just slightly. Milo was still able to eat just fine, but it was taking a huge toll on me. Our lactation consultant helped me see where my mistake was and showed me how to fix it. Nathan ran out, on the spot, and bought a nipple shield which is a frustrating but life saving contraption. The nipple shield took the pressure off of the nipple, so I could still nurse without the toe curling pain. Milo will suck on anything, so while it annoys all of us, we're still able to nurse. I was also prescribed a healing nipple cream that will cause healing beyond what the mild Lansinoh can do. But our lactation consultant also thought it would be a good idea to pump for the next 24-48 hours to give myself a chance to heal.
Now I love nursing my son. And I was initially fearful that pumping and bottle feeding for a day or so could potentially hinder future nursing. But after evaluating Milo's eating... we all decided it shouldn't be a problem. Our lactation consultant gave us a Madela hand pump, and sure enough it worked very well. I was able to pump twice so far today. And Milo took the bottle without hesitation. My plan at this point is to pump/bottle feed twice, then nurse once, then repeat. That way we are still keeping up with the nursing. And after I begin to heal and take away the bottle... I am certain Milo, my little piglet, will go back to exclusive nursing. He's not the kind of baby who won't eat just because he doesn't like what is giving him the milk. She also confirmed that giving Milo the pacifiers is almost a necessity at this point.
I'm still at risk for infection, so I may end up on a preventative antibiotic. But we are confident that if we focus on my healing, I'll still be able to nurse Milo.
Emotionally, I'm still adjusting. There is a lot to process, and its hard to process the whole experience on such sleep deprivation. But I have great support, so whenever the tears start flowing... I have someone there to pick me up.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Three Parts
Part One: Milo's First Dr. Appointment
This morning we took Milo to his first Dr. appointment. I tried to time his feeding/napping appropriately and made sure to dress him in an outfit easy to get him in and out of. And it went very well. He wasn't very happy after they stretched his leg out to get his length... and we did do a crash nursing session while waiting for the Dr. But it really went very well. He was a perfect gentlemen for our Dr. His umbilical cord stump is looking great... his circumcision wound is healing beautifully, and he is a perfectly healthy baby boy. They weighed him today. At birth he weighed 9lb 8 o; he weighed 7lb 13oz Friday morning... this morning he weighed 9 lb 2 oz. In three days he gained over a pound! We have no doubt he is eating well.
Its pretty sweet... when he gets hungry and I'm not moving fast enough for him... he starts to do thing snorty kind of thing... so I call him my little piglet. Then after he eats... he does that thing we all do after Thanksgiving dinner where we find the nearest couch and kind of pass out in a bit of a food-induced drunken state. That's what Milo does... he just passes out with a smile on his face. We call it being "milk wasted." :)
Part Two: Nursing
I wanted to make a post about nursing. I realized that I painted a wonderful easy picture of nursing. And for those mom's out there who breast fed... you know it is not always wonderful and easy. I wanted to make sure I did not pass on any illusions that breast feeding is easy. I was very determined to breast feed, as was a good friend of mine. And we are both still breast feeding. But, you have to have the determination because in the beginning it can be hard. And I say that having a baby who came out a pro nurser... it is really more of getting myself to his level of expertise.
The goal of this post is not to discourage or cause fear or anxiety about nursing. But as I have always said, I think it is important to be honest and open as a way to empower and equip one another.
Milo will be a week old tomorrow evening. In that time, I have experienced great joy in nursing, I mean joy like nothing else. But as I said, nursing can be hard. Caution: TMI... You may have to combat bleeding nipples, leaking nipples, engorgement, pain, and all kinds of other hurdles. I had women talk about this to me, so I knew all of those things were possible. But as my friend experienced... she reached a point within the first week where she wanted to quit. But she pressed on, and is now nursing her baby with ease. I have yet to reach a point where I have wanted to quit, but I understand how and why some women do.
After dealing with major engorgement twice, I've learned what to do to prevent it, and how to get it under control quickly. I learned that Lansinoh Lanolin stuff is without question an essential. I have a tube in every room of the house and in the diaper bag. While there have been very difficult times within the first week of breast feeding... I am learning quickly and it is definitely getting easier. And similar to childbirth... the pain is completely worth it once you just get through the tough stuff.
So if you mom-to-be and you have hopes of breast feeding... know that it is no walk in the park in the beginning and takes a lot of determination, but certainly worth it.
And on a side note... most hospitals also provide a free lactation consultant service to help with any and all issues that may arise from help on latching on to positioning. I was blessed with THE best night nurse who was with us every night of our hospital stay. She was the one who helped Milo nurse immediately after my c section. Anyway... her help and knowledge was so important in Milo and I getting a good start. And even still, I'm going to be meeting with our childbirth education who is also a lactation consultant just to get some extra tips or advice.
Part Three: Foot
I think I told you about that horrible interthecal experience that has caused a persistent pain in my left foot. Well its still there. I was instructed to call back on Monday or Tuesday if it hadn't eased up at all. And it hasn't. What concerns Nathan and I is that we feel as though there is something they're not telling us. After my wonderful night nurse, finally made someone realize I needed to talk to the anesthesiologist... the anesthesiology department quickly became very attentive to me. And then I was told that the entire department of anesthesiologist and CRNAs were made aware of my case in case it didn't go away. So their concern, kind of gave Nathan and I some cause for concern. Granted... I can still walk and the pain isn't debilitating... but still. So tomorrow I'll have to call back in and let them know there has been no change.
This morning we took Milo to his first Dr. appointment. I tried to time his feeding/napping appropriately and made sure to dress him in an outfit easy to get him in and out of. And it went very well. He wasn't very happy after they stretched his leg out to get his length... and we did do a crash nursing session while waiting for the Dr. But it really went very well. He was a perfect gentlemen for our Dr. His umbilical cord stump is looking great... his circumcision wound is healing beautifully, and he is a perfectly healthy baby boy. They weighed him today. At birth he weighed 9lb 8 o; he weighed 7lb 13oz Friday morning... this morning he weighed 9 lb 2 oz. In three days he gained over a pound! We have no doubt he is eating well.
Its pretty sweet... when he gets hungry and I'm not moving fast enough for him... he starts to do thing snorty kind of thing... so I call him my little piglet. Then after he eats... he does that thing we all do after Thanksgiving dinner where we find the nearest couch and kind of pass out in a bit of a food-induced drunken state. That's what Milo does... he just passes out with a smile on his face. We call it being "milk wasted." :)
Part Two: Nursing
I wanted to make a post about nursing. I realized that I painted a wonderful easy picture of nursing. And for those mom's out there who breast fed... you know it is not always wonderful and easy. I wanted to make sure I did not pass on any illusions that breast feeding is easy. I was very determined to breast feed, as was a good friend of mine. And we are both still breast feeding. But, you have to have the determination because in the beginning it can be hard. And I say that having a baby who came out a pro nurser... it is really more of getting myself to his level of expertise.
The goal of this post is not to discourage or cause fear or anxiety about nursing. But as I have always said, I think it is important to be honest and open as a way to empower and equip one another.
Milo will be a week old tomorrow evening. In that time, I have experienced great joy in nursing, I mean joy like nothing else. But as I said, nursing can be hard. Caution: TMI... You may have to combat bleeding nipples, leaking nipples, engorgement, pain, and all kinds of other hurdles. I had women talk about this to me, so I knew all of those things were possible. But as my friend experienced... she reached a point within the first week where she wanted to quit. But she pressed on, and is now nursing her baby with ease. I have yet to reach a point where I have wanted to quit, but I understand how and why some women do.
After dealing with major engorgement twice, I've learned what to do to prevent it, and how to get it under control quickly. I learned that Lansinoh Lanolin stuff is without question an essential. I have a tube in every room of the house and in the diaper bag. While there have been very difficult times within the first week of breast feeding... I am learning quickly and it is definitely getting easier. And similar to childbirth... the pain is completely worth it once you just get through the tough stuff.
So if you mom-to-be and you have hopes of breast feeding... know that it is no walk in the park in the beginning and takes a lot of determination, but certainly worth it.
And on a side note... most hospitals also provide a free lactation consultant service to help with any and all issues that may arise from help on latching on to positioning. I was blessed with THE best night nurse who was with us every night of our hospital stay. She was the one who helped Milo nurse immediately after my c section. Anyway... her help and knowledge was so important in Milo and I getting a good start. And even still, I'm going to be meeting with our childbirth education who is also a lactation consultant just to get some extra tips or advice.
Part Three: Foot
I think I told you about that horrible interthecal experience that has caused a persistent pain in my left foot. Well its still there. I was instructed to call back on Monday or Tuesday if it hadn't eased up at all. And it hasn't. What concerns Nathan and I is that we feel as though there is something they're not telling us. After my wonderful night nurse, finally made someone realize I needed to talk to the anesthesiologist... the anesthesiology department quickly became very attentive to me. And then I was told that the entire department of anesthesiologist and CRNAs were made aware of my case in case it didn't go away. So their concern, kind of gave Nathan and I some cause for concern. Granted... I can still walk and the pain isn't debilitating... but still. So tomorrow I'll have to call back in and let them know there has been no change.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Pictures
Grandpap and Grandma Morgan and Milo
One of many, many, many portraits of our favorite little photo subject.
Kiss number 2,653 of 6,354.
Grandma and Grandpa Rothrock and their first grandchild, Milo.
Milo's first car ride, home from the hospital.
Milo making his kissy lips.
Grandma and Grandpa Rothrock meeting Milo for the very first time.
Milo in a perfect Mommy swaddle... I adore this picture!
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My sleeping boys... I had just woke Nathan up to hold Milo while I ran to the bathroom.
The first time Mommy laid eyes on her beautiful son.
Sleep
Happy Father's Day! Milo was sweet enough to plan his arrival at a time that would bring all of the Father's in my life together. And of course, this being Nathan's first Father's Day, the day is extra special.
In the spirit of maintaining the openness that I've kind of based this blog on... I wanted to make a post about our first days home, first nights in particular.
Of course, the hormones play a huge part in these early days post delivery. I have had plenty of crying episodes since being home. Not sad, just overwhelmed. And I quickly realized I have no problem taking care of Milo. I feel confident in meeting all of his needs, especially since nursing is going so very well. What was overwhelming me, was that I wasn't sure how to take care of myself.
Our first night home was OK. Milo did fine. He kept up with his pattern of eating, sleeping, and pooping through the night. I was the one who didn't do so well. First of all, our plan was to start Milo in his crib from the very beginning, but I knew I'd want him close by, so we moved his crib into our bedroom. Well about ten minutes into our first night home, I realized not only was I not comfortable sleeping in bed (because of my incision) but I still felt too far away from Milo. I needed to have him much closer. So I ended up in the living room with Milo sleeping in a newborn infant seat thingy while I tried to doze in the LayZBoy between feedings. I ended up only sleeping about two hours total. And I didn't wake Nathan because there wasn't really anything I especially needed him to do. I knew quickly I needed to figure some things out.
Yesterday evening, I started to cry as we geared up for another evening, and again I felt overwhelmed. Luckily we had our parents there and they rallied together and moved some things around in the bedroom and helped me kind of establish a game plan. We moved the crib next to the bed with about a foot or two between. That way, I can see him right beside me while I'm laying in bed. Then we took a good nursing chair into the bedroom and set up a table for all of the nursing goodies I might need. We also set up a sound machine that also projects a soothing, moving night scene.
So I refocused before bed, said a prayer, and hoped to at least get Milo to sleep a couple stretches in the crib. And of course I hoped to sleep a couple stretches as well.
I cannot be more pleased with how last night went. Milo did not sleep a couple stretches in the crib. He slept in the crib all night. He woke every 1-2 hours to nurse, which I needed to keep the engorgement under control (which it is.) And after he ate, I'd lay him back down in the crib, still slightly awake and he'd fall asleep until it was time to get up again. And I, too, was able to sleep in bed between feedings. I truly could not have hoped for a better second night at home.
And as far as sleeping crutches... yes we are using a few right now. We swaddle Milo in an Aden and Anais blanket, which is a fabulous muslin blanket perfect for summer swaddling. We also used the sounds machine and projector. But my biggest concern is getting Milo comfortable sleeping in his crib. We can transition out of the sleep crutches later.
And something that many of you may find controversial is the pacifier. We have begun using a pacifier. But what about nipple confusion?? Well... once breast feeding has been established, nipple confusion is no longer an issue. And you may find it hard to believe, but we definitely have breast feeding well established. Even the nurses in the hospital realized Milo was probably just fine to go ahead and introduce a pacifier. Milo is a nursing machine! His nursing alone is what managed my engorgement and within 24 hours. We don't use the pacifier often because he pretty much only cries when is wet or hungry. But I did use it twice to help Milo fall back asleep in his crib last night. And we have used it during a diaper change or two. The pacifier may not be for everyone, especially this early, but it is working quite well for us. And if at any point, we feel like it is being counter productive, we'll simply reevaluate.
I feel very rested this morning, and I am very encouraged by last night.
In the spirit of maintaining the openness that I've kind of based this blog on... I wanted to make a post about our first days home, first nights in particular.
Of course, the hormones play a huge part in these early days post delivery. I have had plenty of crying episodes since being home. Not sad, just overwhelmed. And I quickly realized I have no problem taking care of Milo. I feel confident in meeting all of his needs, especially since nursing is going so very well. What was overwhelming me, was that I wasn't sure how to take care of myself.
Our first night home was OK. Milo did fine. He kept up with his pattern of eating, sleeping, and pooping through the night. I was the one who didn't do so well. First of all, our plan was to start Milo in his crib from the very beginning, but I knew I'd want him close by, so we moved his crib into our bedroom. Well about ten minutes into our first night home, I realized not only was I not comfortable sleeping in bed (because of my incision) but I still felt too far away from Milo. I needed to have him much closer. So I ended up in the living room with Milo sleeping in a newborn infant seat thingy while I tried to doze in the LayZBoy between feedings. I ended up only sleeping about two hours total. And I didn't wake Nathan because there wasn't really anything I especially needed him to do. I knew quickly I needed to figure some things out.
Yesterday evening, I started to cry as we geared up for another evening, and again I felt overwhelmed. Luckily we had our parents there and they rallied together and moved some things around in the bedroom and helped me kind of establish a game plan. We moved the crib next to the bed with about a foot or two between. That way, I can see him right beside me while I'm laying in bed. Then we took a good nursing chair into the bedroom and set up a table for all of the nursing goodies I might need. We also set up a sound machine that also projects a soothing, moving night scene.
So I refocused before bed, said a prayer, and hoped to at least get Milo to sleep a couple stretches in the crib. And of course I hoped to sleep a couple stretches as well.
I cannot be more pleased with how last night went. Milo did not sleep a couple stretches in the crib. He slept in the crib all night. He woke every 1-2 hours to nurse, which I needed to keep the engorgement under control (which it is.) And after he ate, I'd lay him back down in the crib, still slightly awake and he'd fall asleep until it was time to get up again. And I, too, was able to sleep in bed between feedings. I truly could not have hoped for a better second night at home.
And as far as sleeping crutches... yes we are using a few right now. We swaddle Milo in an Aden and Anais blanket, which is a fabulous muslin blanket perfect for summer swaddling. We also used the sounds machine and projector. But my biggest concern is getting Milo comfortable sleeping in his crib. We can transition out of the sleep crutches later.
And something that many of you may find controversial is the pacifier. We have begun using a pacifier. But what about nipple confusion?? Well... once breast feeding has been established, nipple confusion is no longer an issue. And you may find it hard to believe, but we definitely have breast feeding well established. Even the nurses in the hospital realized Milo was probably just fine to go ahead and introduce a pacifier. Milo is a nursing machine! His nursing alone is what managed my engorgement and within 24 hours. We don't use the pacifier often because he pretty much only cries when is wet or hungry. But I did use it twice to help Milo fall back asleep in his crib last night. And we have used it during a diaper change or two. The pacifier may not be for everyone, especially this early, but it is working quite well for us. And if at any point, we feel like it is being counter productive, we'll simply reevaluate.
I feel very rested this morning, and I am very encouraged by last night.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Home
I wanted to post again real quick while Milo finishes a nap.
We are home now and happy to be getting settled in with our new son. On the last day in the hospital I ended up getting a spinal headache which is where fluid leaks out of the puncture sight from my interthecal and spinal block. Because of the complications we had, the main treatment option isn't really a good option for me. Really our only option was caffeine. Even though when breast feeding we're told to avoid the caffeine... it is the only option for combatting the spinal headache at this point. It seems to be helping though and Milo doesn't seem affected by it. Hopefully it'll go away soon!
Speaking of breast feeding... Milo has been a natural since birth. The first feeding where I just had to lay there right after surgery and the nurse did all the work and every feeding afterwards has been excellent. His first few feedings, he nursed for 20 minutes on both sides... and boy is he a little Hoover! My milk started coming in at the hospital and is now in full swing. Last night went very well except I was terribly engorged, but luckily with lots of feeding... I seem to have it under control. After each feeding, Milo now enters a state of intense satisfaction... where he basically passes out... we call it being milk wasted. :) So breast feeding is definitely going very well despite the engorgement issues.
Oh and I have to tell you about Milo's feet! They're huge. At birth his footprints didn't fit in the box... and I put him in some footed jammies (0-3 months) and they just barely fit. I don't know if that means he is going to be tall or just have big feet. :)
Nathan and I are both just so in love with Milo, and we are enjoying getting to know our beautiful little miracle.
I could go on and on about just how smart and charming and handsome our son is... but what else can you expect from a new mom?!
And I'll try to post more pictures soon.
We are home now and happy to be getting settled in with our new son. On the last day in the hospital I ended up getting a spinal headache which is where fluid leaks out of the puncture sight from my interthecal and spinal block. Because of the complications we had, the main treatment option isn't really a good option for me. Really our only option was caffeine. Even though when breast feeding we're told to avoid the caffeine... it is the only option for combatting the spinal headache at this point. It seems to be helping though and Milo doesn't seem affected by it. Hopefully it'll go away soon!
Speaking of breast feeding... Milo has been a natural since birth. The first feeding where I just had to lay there right after surgery and the nurse did all the work and every feeding afterwards has been excellent. His first few feedings, he nursed for 20 minutes on both sides... and boy is he a little Hoover! My milk started coming in at the hospital and is now in full swing. Last night went very well except I was terribly engorged, but luckily with lots of feeding... I seem to have it under control. After each feeding, Milo now enters a state of intense satisfaction... where he basically passes out... we call it being milk wasted. :) So breast feeding is definitely going very well despite the engorgement issues.
Oh and I have to tell you about Milo's feet! They're huge. At birth his footprints didn't fit in the box... and I put him in some footed jammies (0-3 months) and they just barely fit. I don't know if that means he is going to be tall or just have big feet. :)
Nathan and I are both just so in love with Milo, and we are enjoying getting to know our beautiful little miracle.
I could go on and on about just how smart and charming and handsome our son is... but what else can you expect from a new mom?!
And I'll try to post more pictures soon.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Milo Oliver
First things first... Yesterday at 10:07, just seconds before 10:08 (significant because that's what time we were married, only in the am.) Nathan and I finally met our perfect, handsome son, Milo Oliver. Milo weighed a healthy 8lb 9oz and is 20 inches long. He has his Dad's beautiful dark hair.
Right now as he lays asleep on my chest, I cannot even begin to put into words what I am feeling. If you are a parent... you know.
The past day and a half has been a whirlwind of excitement, exhaustion, pain, and joy. I'll try to sum up yesterday's events. I guess you could call this Milo's birth story.
1:30 am I woke up with contractions after only being asleep about an hour and a half or two hours. After the second contraction, I knew without a doubt I was in labor. I did exactly as my midwife instructed and labored at home until contractions were about 3 minutes apart and strong enough that I could not walk or talk through them. By the time we got to about 3 and a half minutes apart.... I told Nathan I was ready to go to the hospital. And I mean... I was ready. So we made it to the hospital around 5 am. My plan was to go drug free, but I knew the hospital had the jacuzzi tub and I was ready to start trying some natural methods of pain management. Unfortunately in triage... I was still only dilated to 2cm. But based on the amount and strength of my contractions they knew I needed to be admitted. So we were taken to our room. Our midwife had another patient in labor, so she went back and forth between us for the first few hours.
I labored and labored. I labored on the ball, in the chair, in the bed, walking the hall, in the tub. I found an incredible amount of relief in the warm bath. Even though my contractions were still just 3 minutes apart, I was able to reach a deep enough state of relaxation to doze between contractions while soaking. And I must say... I had the breathing down to perfection.
I figured I had to be close to 10 cm, as I had been laboring for many hours by this point, but the next check showed that I was only to five. So on I labored some more. Again, I labored in the tub. And the next check showed that I was still only dilated to 5 cm. At that point, I had labored 100% drug free from 1:30 until about 4:00. The next step was to start Pitocin to try to increase the intensity and frequency of contractions in hopes of getting to 10 cm. But after laboring for that long on about two hours of sleep, I was exhausted. I knew that there was no way I could handle Pitocin contractions with out some kind of relief. It was at that point, that I started asking to have a csection. I had hit my wall and I just wanted it to be over.
But Denise, knowing what I had hoped for Milo's birth, didn't want to see me go from a drug free labor straight to surgery. So we went ahead and agreed to the Pitocin. I also was given a mild narcotic to help me relax between contractions. It felt good, but it did nothing for relief during actual contractions. So I went another two hours with no relief from the actual contractions. I then asked for an intrathecal which is a shot given in the back by an anesthesiologist. It was then about 6:00 before the anesthesiologist showed up, which was over 16 hours into my labor.
The fun thing about the intrathecal was I had to remain completely still through very intense contractions while they repeatedly poked a needle into my back. The nurse anesthesist had a very difficult time just because of the anatomy of my spine. So I had to lay perfectly still through contractions and pokes for 45 minutes until she finally called the anesthesiologist to come do it.
The intrathecal gave me great relief for a couple of hours. During that time I had progressed to 7 cm but that was after laboring for almost 18 hours. I had hit my wall back at 5 cm. And the intrathecal had worn off too, so even during the c section prep and spinal... I was still have the intense contractions.
The decision to do a c section was not taken lightly by my midwife. She knew what our hopes were and we did everything we could to uphold those. But in the end the c section was definitely the right choice. And while I don't love that we are now seeing some mild effects of the drugs he was exposed to, we know we did everything we could before taking that route.
Yesterday was certainly the longest day of our life. It was traumatic for both us. It pushed Nathan beyond his emotional limit having to watch me and still support me going through all that.... it pushed me beyond any emotional and most definitely physical limits I had. But the minute I heard my son cry, it was worth every single ounce of energy. We fell in love immediately.
Nathan was able to cut the umbilical cord and go to the nursery with Milo during the first few minutes. And really, I was able to hold Milo probably within about 20 minutes. And we started nursing immediately as well. I had to lay flat, so our nurse pretty much did all the work while I laid there. But Milo proved to be an excellent eater. His first three feedings lasted 20 minutes on each side. So while labor and delivery was not easy, breast feeding has certainly gone very well so far.
He truly is a miracle baby that we have been praying for, for a long time. In fact, we've been praying for him by name for a long time. While we certainly considered other names, Milo was the baby we had been praying for. And just in case you were curious, Milo means peaceful and is also the Greek word for apple. And yes, his initials are MOM... and after yesterday... I think I deserved to be the namesake of his initials. :)
Thank you for your prayers and support. And I look forward to each of you getting to know our beautiful son.
And let me just add that it has seriously taken me an entire day to write this post!
Monday, June 14, 2010
41 Weeks and 4 Days
Today's appointment went well. I am still only dilated about 2 cm. My midwife, Denise, stripped the membranes a bit, which they have done the past couple appointments now... its basically a rough exam. Anyway... we discussed the plan for Wednesday morning assuming not too much changes between now and then. We will start with a drug called Cytotec, then likely break my water a few hours later. We are very hopeful that will be enough to get labor going. And we now know that whether I deliver tonight or Wednesday... Denise will be the midwife to deliver, which I am very pleased with. I know I would have been in excellent hands with either, but I always feel relaxed and comfortable with Denise. And even though we are inducing, it will still be done very thoughtfully and with as little intervention as possible. All in all I feel comfortable with Wednesdays plan. And we ended with another NST that Baby once again passed with flying colors. Please continue to keep all three of us in your prayers.
Sunday Evening Pictures
While we are all waiting... I thought I'd post a few pictures from yesterday evening at the airport.
Nathan and our little friend James... who will undoubtedly be a pilot himself one day.
Kelly, still pregnant.
Fred and Linda, all buckled in and ready to go.
Slightly out of order, but everyone getting settled into the plane.
Fred and Linda smooching in the back of the Cady (pre-flight). :)
Nathan and our little friend James... who will undoubtedly be a pilot himself one day.
Kelly, still pregnant.
Fred and Linda, all buckled in and ready to go.
Slightly out of order, but everyone getting settled into the plane.
Fred and Linda smooching in the back of the Cady (pre-flight). :)
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Events
This weekend turned out to be quite eventful... unfortunately not baby related eventful. Yesterday our friends Marcia and Charles invited us all over for a wonderfully relaxing dinner in the back yard. Today, we took Nathan's parents to Bay City and played 18 holes of mini golf. Nathan and I tied... Fred beat us by two points... and Linda, well Linda did GREAT for not having played in a very long time. ;) Then Marcia and Charles, who are both pilots, offered to take Fred and Linda up for an evening flight. Linda was hesitant, but decided to go. They ended up thoroughly enjoying the flight over the Saginaw Bay.
That doesn't sound like a lot, but I am pooped! It was a very cloudy day, but the kind of cloudy day they are talking about when they say you can still get a sunburn. I'm not fried, but definitely pink! So between the sun I obviously got and being very, very pregnant... I am completely worn out. So I am about 15 minutes away from much needed sleep. {My parents figure as tired as I am... I'll probably end up in labor tonight.}
Baby wise... I have an appointment tomorrow afternoon where we will check my progress again and make our plan as far as how we will go about inducing on Wednesday. I'm still hopeful we will not have to induce... or that if we do induce... breaking my water will be enough.
Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers. And let me add... as much as I really, really, really want to have this baby... I still love being pregnant!!
That doesn't sound like a lot, but I am pooped! It was a very cloudy day, but the kind of cloudy day they are talking about when they say you can still get a sunburn. I'm not fried, but definitely pink! So between the sun I obviously got and being very, very pregnant... I am completely worn out. So I am about 15 minutes away from much needed sleep. {My parents figure as tired as I am... I'll probably end up in labor tonight.}
Baby wise... I have an appointment tomorrow afternoon where we will check my progress again and make our plan as far as how we will go about inducing on Wednesday. I'm still hopeful we will not have to induce... or that if we do induce... breaking my water will be enough.
Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers. And let me add... as much as I really, really, really want to have this baby... I still love being pregnant!!
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Friday, June 11, 2010
41 Weeks
Today's appointment was OK. I am 100% effaced and dilated 1.5 cm. I had another non stress test that looked great... that is after Baby decided to wake up. The nurse grabbed my belly and shook it and this kid still didn't wake up... but finally did wake up and let everyone know it was doing just fine. The nurse also said I was having contractions about every ten minutes. They are just not strong enough to where I really notice them. All in all I cannot complain because it seems as though things are still happening. Oh and I gained 1 lb so my total is about 29lbs.
We did have the induction discussion. I really do not want to be induced unless I have to, so my induction is scheduled for Wednesday morning the 16th unless of course the baby comes before then. My next appointment will be on Monday where I will once again be checked for progress... then depending on how things look, we'll determine the most appropriate route for induction. I'm hoping if it gets to that point... we can just break my water and that will be enough to get labor moving.
Please say a prayer for me. I am really hoping to meet this baby this weekend! I'm afraid I have done too good a job of making this baby cozy and comfortable.
We did have the induction discussion. I really do not want to be induced unless I have to, so my induction is scheduled for Wednesday morning the 16th unless of course the baby comes before then. My next appointment will be on Monday where I will once again be checked for progress... then depending on how things look, we'll determine the most appropriate route for induction. I'm hoping if it gets to that point... we can just break my water and that will be enough to get labor moving.
Please say a prayer for me. I am really hoping to meet this baby this weekend! I'm afraid I have done too good a job of making this baby cozy and comfortable.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Thank you for your prayers. All of Linda's test results came back normal. Stress is definitely the likely culprit.
Fred and Linda, Nathan's parents, have actually decided to come on up to Michigan tomorrow afternoon. It'll be nice to have some company while I continue to wait, and it'll be a much needed get away for Fred and Linda.
And tomorrow morning is my 41 week appointment. I was really hoping I wouldn't make it to that appointment, but I have. And I suppose we'll be having the induction discussion. I'm hoping that I have made even more progress. As much as I hate the waiting, I really do not want to be induced. But I trust my midwives and we'll see how the conversation goes tomorrow.
As always... I'll keep you updated.
Fred and Linda, Nathan's parents, have actually decided to come on up to Michigan tomorrow afternoon. It'll be nice to have some company while I continue to wait, and it'll be a much needed get away for Fred and Linda.
And tomorrow morning is my 41 week appointment. I was really hoping I wouldn't make it to that appointment, but I have. And I suppose we'll be having the induction discussion. I'm hoping that I have made even more progress. As much as I hate the waiting, I really do not want to be induced. But I trust my midwives and we'll see how the conversation goes tomorrow.
As always... I'll keep you updated.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Please say a prayer for Nathan's mom. She is in the ER right now and will be kept over night for chest pains. They think its most likely stress related, but please pray that if it is something else... they will find the cause. And if not... that she would get some relief from the various stressors in her life right now. Thanks.
-Still no baby.
-Still no baby.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Past Due
Tomorrow I will officially be 6 days past my due date.
The last few days have been crazy. I feel like some crazy pregnant woman has taken over my mind. I have been emotional, tired, and in denial that the baby will ever actually come out. I even had a good sobbing episode where I told Nathan I didn't even know what to say, because I didn't know why I was crying. But as badly as I want to have this baby, I'm not ready to talk induction. Because my body continues to show that it is working and making progress, I'm confident things will start naturally. My midwives will not let you go more than 1 week and 6 days past your due date, so one way or another the baby will be here by the 16th/17th. We had another perfect Non Stress Test this morning and my next appointment is on Friday. That's about all I have to report.
Oh and this is kind of funny. I get excited every time my phone rings. But then I realize... wait... I'm not the one waiting for the phone call... everyone else is waiting for my phone call. Its almost like my initial thought is... Oh someone is calling to tell me I'm having the baby now.
The last few days have been crazy. I feel like some crazy pregnant woman has taken over my mind. I have been emotional, tired, and in denial that the baby will ever actually come out. I even had a good sobbing episode where I told Nathan I didn't even know what to say, because I didn't know why I was crying. But as badly as I want to have this baby, I'm not ready to talk induction. Because my body continues to show that it is working and making progress, I'm confident things will start naturally. My midwives will not let you go more than 1 week and 6 days past your due date, so one way or another the baby will be here by the 16th/17th. We had another perfect Non Stress Test this morning and my next appointment is on Friday. That's about all I have to report.
Oh and this is kind of funny. I get excited every time my phone rings. But then I realize... wait... I'm not the one waiting for the phone call... everyone else is waiting for my phone call. Its almost like my initial thought is... Oh someone is calling to tell me I'm having the baby now.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Reflecting UP
Have you seen the movie UP? We love this movie. The most amazing thing this movie does is tell a story of a couple and gets you personally connected and attached in the first ten minutes. I have seen this movie twice now. And there is one scene in the beginning that grabs my heart, very tightly. Even today in the video store, UP was playing and without even seeing that particular scene, just knowing it was coming up (I looked away during the actually scene) and I was fighting back tears. Its about a five or ten second scene where the wife is sitting in a doctor's office after finding out a baby will not be in her future. I'm sitting here thinking about it, and I am once again fighting tears. The first time I saw this, I cried borderline hysterically, in the movie theater. The second time watching with my parents at their house... I had tears running down my face with that big lump in your throat, and I think I even left the room.
But seeing that... where I am today, carrying a big round belly, anxiously waiting the arrival of our baby... it was just that much more emotional. I was once in that doctor's office... but here I am today getting ready to meet a brand new life that we created.
Now in the movie, they accepted being a family of two. And in real life... that is a real choice, and for many couples it is the right choice. And a choice no one but that couple can make. But I knew in my heart, that was not the end for us. We didn't know how, but we knew we would be parents. And here we are... maybe hours or days from that moment. Its a magical feeling.
But seeing that... where I am today, carrying a big round belly, anxiously waiting the arrival of our baby... it was just that much more emotional. I was once in that doctor's office... but here I am today getting ready to meet a brand new life that we created.
Now in the movie, they accepted being a family of two. And in real life... that is a real choice, and for many couples it is the right choice. And a choice no one but that couple can make. But I knew in my heart, that was not the end for us. We didn't know how, but we knew we would be parents. And here we are... maybe hours or days from that moment. Its a magical feeling.
Friday, June 4, 2010
40 Week 1 Day Update
Baby Ticker countdown thingy is no more. It went from 0 weeks 0 days to 1 week 1 day. I was not pleased with that... so its gone. :)
Last night I had my first 'false labor' experience. I don't know if that is really the right term, but I definitely had some contraction action. I immediately thought, Hmm what would my midwife tell me to do. So I drank some water and took a warm shower. It wasn't painful, but there was definitely a lot of discomfort. After about 12 minutes in the shower, all subsided, and I was able to go to sleep.
Then today I had my 40 week appointment. I told my midwife, Denise, about last night and she said that she calls that simmering... where the body is just kind of getting in labor mode. Unfortunately that doesn't tell us much about when this baby could be coming. All else looked good. In addition to the progress we knew about already... it looks like I have begun to dilate a bit. Not much, but more than a week ago... to me that is progress!
And I had lost track of my weight gain... but apparently I am up to 28 pounds. Denise was very happy with that number, and so am I. Oh and she guessed baby's weight to be about 8 lbs.
We also had a brief conversation about how different people handle labor. Denise asked how I handle stress in my day to day life. Without hesitation... I said, I cry. Well she said that how you handle stress is usually what is reflected during labor. If you cuss and get angry... that's usually what happens in labor... or if you just kind of withdraw... same thing in labor. Over the past almost 11 years, Nathan has probably dealt with enough of my tears to fill an Olympic size swimming pool... so he should be able to handle my tears in labor without a problem.
Oh and we also had a discussion about drugs. My goal is a natural labor. I am very determined, but still feel like I need to stay flexible. However, I do not want any drugs that will alter my state of mind. I don't want anything that is going to make me feel loopy or tipsy. I don't like how strong pain meds have made me feel in the past... just out of it and nauseous. So I wanted to make sure I could go straight to an intrathecal without having to mess around with the other drugs. And sure enough that is fine with them.
And I'm finding things to keep my mind busy. I'm hoping to finish my jigsaw puzzle today and I started a new book last night. So I feel much better than I did the few days before my due date. I'm still anxious to meet this baby, but feeling much more relaxed again.
Last night I had my first 'false labor' experience. I don't know if that is really the right term, but I definitely had some contraction action. I immediately thought, Hmm what would my midwife tell me to do. So I drank some water and took a warm shower. It wasn't painful, but there was definitely a lot of discomfort. After about 12 minutes in the shower, all subsided, and I was able to go to sleep.
Then today I had my 40 week appointment. I told my midwife, Denise, about last night and she said that she calls that simmering... where the body is just kind of getting in labor mode. Unfortunately that doesn't tell us much about when this baby could be coming. All else looked good. In addition to the progress we knew about already... it looks like I have begun to dilate a bit. Not much, but more than a week ago... to me that is progress!
And I had lost track of my weight gain... but apparently I am up to 28 pounds. Denise was very happy with that number, and so am I. Oh and she guessed baby's weight to be about 8 lbs.
We also had a brief conversation about how different people handle labor. Denise asked how I handle stress in my day to day life. Without hesitation... I said, I cry. Well she said that how you handle stress is usually what is reflected during labor. If you cuss and get angry... that's usually what happens in labor... or if you just kind of withdraw... same thing in labor. Over the past almost 11 years, Nathan has probably dealt with enough of my tears to fill an Olympic size swimming pool... so he should be able to handle my tears in labor without a problem.
Oh and we also had a discussion about drugs. My goal is a natural labor. I am very determined, but still feel like I need to stay flexible. However, I do not want any drugs that will alter my state of mind. I don't want anything that is going to make me feel loopy or tipsy. I don't like how strong pain meds have made me feel in the past... just out of it and nauseous. So I wanted to make sure I could go straight to an intrathecal without having to mess around with the other drugs. And sure enough that is fine with them.
And I'm finding things to keep my mind busy. I'm hoping to finish my jigsaw puzzle today and I started a new book last night. So I feel much better than I did the few days before my due date. I'm still anxious to meet this baby, but feeling much more relaxed again.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
DUE DATE
Do you see the Baby Ticker is down to ZERO!!! That's right... today was my official due date. And I survived the day. I went to the grocery store... not fun. But I came home to flowers and a note from my wonderful husband. That made my day. And I picked up a 1000 piece jigsaw puzzle which kept my busy and my mind occupied. I'll probably have it finished tomorrow, but it truly was a great distraction.
Tomorrow is my 40 week appointment with my midwife. I'm just hoping to hear that more progress has been made and that this baby sure enough will be here soon. Say a prayer!
And unless I have the baby within the next two and a half hours... I think it safe to say this baby takes after its daddy and his reputation for being late! :)
Tomorrow is my 40 week appointment with my midwife. I'm just hoping to hear that more progress has been made and that this baby sure enough will be here soon. Say a prayer!
And unless I have the baby within the next two and a half hours... I think it safe to say this baby takes after its daddy and his reputation for being late! :)
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Now What?
Yesterday's Non Stress Test again, went very well. I was told to schedule another one next Tuesday. Next Tuesday... I really hope I am not still pregnant! I'm going to be the one who is stressing if that is the case.
Last night I picked up my calendar to see what the rest of the week held for me... nothing... for the next two weeks! I have my next appointment on Friday. But that is it. It's going to be a long, boring road of waiting if this baby doesn't come out soon!
Yesterday was nice though. I had the NST and PT. Then I had the honor of watching my friend Kendra's 8 week old baby girl while she had a dentist appointment. And I have to say... she was a perfect little angel! This was the first time Kendra had left her daughter with anyone, and both Mom and Baby Girl were so brave. :) I was hoping holding another adorable little baby would make my baby jealous... but that didn't seem to work.
Last night I picked up my calendar to see what the rest of the week held for me... nothing... for the next two weeks! I have my next appointment on Friday. But that is it. It's going to be a long, boring road of waiting if this baby doesn't come out soon!
Yesterday was nice though. I had the NST and PT. Then I had the honor of watching my friend Kendra's 8 week old baby girl while she had a dentist appointment. And I have to say... she was a perfect little angel! This was the first time Kendra had left her daughter with anyone, and both Mom and Baby Girl were so brave. :) I was hoping holding another adorable little baby would make my baby jealous... but that didn't seem to work.
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