I have nothing much new to post. Fall has set in at our house and until it stops going from 70 to 30 every day, the boy's lungs will keep fighting it. We had to pull out the nebulizer tonight! Gotta love allergies.
As far the neurologist front, nothing. I called the other day and they couldn't change things. I expressed that I was concerned that we were waiting 5 weeks and the nurse really couldn't explain much more than...well that is when they could get him in. I also voiced concern about waiting for his labs that long and that response was...You could bring him down and we could draw them. She then went on to explain that they were trying to prevent a poke, which I appreciate, but his thyroid level and other levels could be COMPLETELY out of wack by then. I doubt they will be, but you never know!
The Early Development Network won't touch him...or i should say...would prefer not to touch him until the MRI is done so they know what the diagnosis is. All of this leads to delay. Delay, delay, delay.
Today he has started to stand...granted it is for seconds, and is only with locking his knees, but he was upright and thought he was pretty big stuff! I tried some resistance exercises and he didn't resist. He does try to pull himself up though and that excites me. He made it up twice, but his legs have to be just so and something has to be in front of him so he can't slide.
So now...we wait. After some advice from Jess (sister-in-law), I will call omaha again tomorrow and ask to speak to Dr. Wright and voice my concerns again!
Patience...patience, I know...but I do not have patience! :)
I again keep reminding myself that he isn't fighting for his life, although it may be altered, he isn't fighting to stay alive. It is all in perspective these days as my co-worker's little man fights for his life and waits for a heart transplant. He's 1 month older than Chris.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Darn Google
Thanks to my amazing best friend...AKA Google...I have had a few scares the last few days on top of worrying about the Chris stuff that is going on.
We had a patient that came in with a disorder that some of us nurses were unaware of, so to better our knowledge...we googled it! :)
In reading through the disorder, I learned about cafe au lait spots and after seek a picture...this was on Chris' abdomen. So again with the tears. This could be a marker for neurological defect, according to google. So I cried some more and worried. Then when in the ED at Children's on Sunday night...that story to come later...the doc said...why are you going to the neurolgist, because of the spot on his belly? The little voice in my head went....He just confirmed it, google was right, the neurologist appointment is going to be HORRIBLE in the morning.
WRONG!!! Dr. Wright stated that children need up to 5 of those spots for it to be a "deficit" related spot...otherwise...birthmark! :)
My other scare started with the same patient at work and having difficulty breathing. Chris is congested which is another thing he has always been....and he got to coughing and turned bright red, then blue. After a 1/2 dozen times of this, we ended up in the Children's Hospital ED. This over reacting mother was calmed down and probably looked like a moron. I just kept thinking, what if he does this while I'm sleeping? The Dr. in the ED...Dr. Tolo, was very nice and stated that he probably had a mucus plug and all the coughing up to getting seen, knocked it loose and he was now fine. So to bed we went!
Oy, not sure how many of those I can take! And that's just with one child!
We had a patient that came in with a disorder that some of us nurses were unaware of, so to better our knowledge...we googled it! :)
In reading through the disorder, I learned about cafe au lait spots and after seek a picture...this was on Chris' abdomen. So again with the tears. This could be a marker for neurological defect, according to google. So I cried some more and worried. Then when in the ED at Children's on Sunday night...that story to come later...the doc said...why are you going to the neurolgist, because of the spot on his belly? The little voice in my head went....He just confirmed it, google was right, the neurologist appointment is going to be HORRIBLE in the morning.
WRONG!!! Dr. Wright stated that children need up to 5 of those spots for it to be a "deficit" related spot...otherwise...birthmark! :)
My other scare started with the same patient at work and having difficulty breathing. Chris is congested which is another thing he has always been....and he got to coughing and turned bright red, then blue. After a 1/2 dozen times of this, we ended up in the Children's Hospital ED. This over reacting mother was calmed down and probably looked like a moron. I just kept thinking, what if he does this while I'm sleeping? The Dr. in the ED...Dr. Tolo, was very nice and stated that he probably had a mucus plug and all the coughing up to getting seen, knocked it loose and he was now fine. So to bed we went!
Oy, not sure how many of those I can take! And that's just with one child!
Neurologist
I must apologize that I haven't gotten back to many about this. The last few days seem like a blur. So, I will start at the beginning.
In Chris' well baby check ups, he head has always measured large. What can I say, all my children have large heads. Andrew's was 14 inches when he was born, if I remember correctly. For awhile, it was following the growth curve, so it wasn't as much of a concern, but then at his 9 month check up, it made a jump.
To add to it, he doesn't use his legs much. Yes, the little man rolls like a maniac around the room and gets into everything. I'm always amazed at what he can do from his belly, reaching 6 inches or so off the floor! Anyway, he doesn't like to use his legs. He doesn't stand much and when you try to get him to stand he just holds his legs up. Even when he is in his exersaucer/jumper he uses his hands to go in the circle.
Then he also was sweating perfusely at the oddest times. Often in the middle of the night and especially when he eats.
So, at his 9 month check up, with all of these concerns voiced, Doc. decided that it would be in his best interest to see a neurologist. I agreed.
At this point, I handled it well...until I showed up at Carhart's to talk to my mom...10 min later, and I lost it! In the middle of the store, I bawled and bawled and bawled and in between sobs I told my mom what was happening. This was the routine until about 3 days ago. That's when I was finally able to talk about it without crying.
At first our appointment was Nov. 8, but Doc was able to get that moved up to today, Oct. 11. So off we went to Omaha and met Dr. Wright, a very cheery and thorough doc who asked all sorts of questions, and brought my attention to things, that I never knew were related.
She said that she wasn't that concerned with his head, because after measuring our heads, his head circumfrence plotted out close to mine and Jason's. He's just gonna have big brains like his momma...or a lot of empty space, according to his father.
Then we spoke at length about use of his legs. I said it's been like that since day 1 and hadn't thought much of it until recently. I mean, I knew he wasn't like the older 2, but in a way chalked it up to being kiddo #3. What got me concerned was him not sitting up. He can sit up, but he can't go from a lying to sitting position, you have to put him in the sitting position. He will also not get on his hands and knees and if he does, it is briefly, for seconds. She also made notice that his legs flop, almost like he lacks muscle tone.
She then asked about his stooling habits and if his stools were hard, which they are and always have been...and then it clicked for me...was she questioning a form or something similar to spina bifida. I couldn't bare to ask...so I didn't. She also pointed out that in comparison to his hands, his feet are small. I had always thought his feet were HUGE!
So she concluded that she isn't concerned about the head...did I say that already, but the legs do have her concerned and we now have to MRI the spine to see if there is any tethering of the lower spine or a tumor that is present. We also need to contact early development to get him on a PT/OT regimen. She did state however that with the leg issue, it could just be inability to hold his weight, which is still below Drew, so maybe he needs to buck up! :)
I'm not sure that this has sank in yet. I just keep telling myself...what's the worst case scenario? He has to use a walker?...and a friend of mine has proven that this is manageable.
The good news is that he is on track cognitively, if not a little ahead said the neurologist. The bad news is the next MRI isn't until Nov. 18, which I am trying to see if we can change because I'm not sure my mental health can wonder about those things for the next 5 weeks. He will also have quite a bit of lab drawn at that time as well.
I need to thank everyone for their prayers and thoughts of encouragement and shoulders to cry on. It's not life threatening and we are very blessed to have a healthy boy, but it doesn't mean I don't worry.
In Chris' well baby check ups, he head has always measured large. What can I say, all my children have large heads. Andrew's was 14 inches when he was born, if I remember correctly. For awhile, it was following the growth curve, so it wasn't as much of a concern, but then at his 9 month check up, it made a jump.
To add to it, he doesn't use his legs much. Yes, the little man rolls like a maniac around the room and gets into everything. I'm always amazed at what he can do from his belly, reaching 6 inches or so off the floor! Anyway, he doesn't like to use his legs. He doesn't stand much and when you try to get him to stand he just holds his legs up. Even when he is in his exersaucer/jumper he uses his hands to go in the circle.
Then he also was sweating perfusely at the oddest times. Often in the middle of the night and especially when he eats.
So, at his 9 month check up, with all of these concerns voiced, Doc. decided that it would be in his best interest to see a neurologist. I agreed.
At this point, I handled it well...until I showed up at Carhart's to talk to my mom...10 min later, and I lost it! In the middle of the store, I bawled and bawled and bawled and in between sobs I told my mom what was happening. This was the routine until about 3 days ago. That's when I was finally able to talk about it without crying.
At first our appointment was Nov. 8, but Doc was able to get that moved up to today, Oct. 11. So off we went to Omaha and met Dr. Wright, a very cheery and thorough doc who asked all sorts of questions, and brought my attention to things, that I never knew were related.
She said that she wasn't that concerned with his head, because after measuring our heads, his head circumfrence plotted out close to mine and Jason's. He's just gonna have big brains like his momma...or a lot of empty space, according to his father.
Then we spoke at length about use of his legs. I said it's been like that since day 1 and hadn't thought much of it until recently. I mean, I knew he wasn't like the older 2, but in a way chalked it up to being kiddo #3. What got me concerned was him not sitting up. He can sit up, but he can't go from a lying to sitting position, you have to put him in the sitting position. He will also not get on his hands and knees and if he does, it is briefly, for seconds. She also made notice that his legs flop, almost like he lacks muscle tone.
She then asked about his stooling habits and if his stools were hard, which they are and always have been...and then it clicked for me...was she questioning a form or something similar to spina bifida. I couldn't bare to ask...so I didn't. She also pointed out that in comparison to his hands, his feet are small. I had always thought his feet were HUGE!
So she concluded that she isn't concerned about the head...did I say that already, but the legs do have her concerned and we now have to MRI the spine to see if there is any tethering of the lower spine or a tumor that is present. We also need to contact early development to get him on a PT/OT regimen. She did state however that with the leg issue, it could just be inability to hold his weight, which is still below Drew, so maybe he needs to buck up! :)
I'm not sure that this has sank in yet. I just keep telling myself...what's the worst case scenario? He has to use a walker?...and a friend of mine has proven that this is manageable.
The good news is that he is on track cognitively, if not a little ahead said the neurologist. The bad news is the next MRI isn't until Nov. 18, which I am trying to see if we can change because I'm not sure my mental health can wonder about those things for the next 5 weeks. He will also have quite a bit of lab drawn at that time as well.
I need to thank everyone for their prayers and thoughts of encouragement and shoulders to cry on. It's not life threatening and we are very blessed to have a healthy boy, but it doesn't mean I don't worry.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Great Day!
I got to thinking that I need to sit down every day and write what the boys have done, are up to or what they pulled off and got away with. However, I need to get it done before midnight! :)
Andrew amazes me every day. He wants to read and does his homework and school work well...when he's not in a hurry! He was so helpful today. He emptied the dishwasher and vacuumed the living room...granted I had to do half of both tasks, I didn't mind! And before you turn me in for child labor...he was compensated for his chores. He also helped me mow which made my day. It goes by WAY faster when there are 2 of us working on it. He was fantastic until the storm came through. He HATES storms. Needless to say...he's in my bed.
Matthew...what a silly boy! He's been my snuggler the last couple days. I'm not sure what's going on, unles Lily's arrival has affected his world as well. He wants to bad to be independent and to have the same things and responsibilities that Andrew does, but when asked to follow through on them he is very happy to regress! He ate hot lunch with Andrew today and believe it or not he ate it well. He is loving Mommy being home more.
Mr. Christopher. Talk about a kid with personality. He is so laid back and happy I'm not sure what to do with him. He was fine until Miss Lily came along and realized that Mommy is holding another baby! :) Now he has to keep me in his sight at all time. He doesn't say much, but when he can't see me I hear him say "Mom" and then when I come around the corner to praise him, I just get a grin from ear to ear and this look like..."What are you talking about?" He is so close to crawling. Right now he just kind of rolls back and forth on his stomach until he gets to where he wants to go...Needless to say, he can cover ground in no time flat!
I will try to keep this up. The boys love to read their Mom's thoughts about them! Until tomorrow, Sleep well my boys!
Andrew amazes me every day. He wants to read and does his homework and school work well...when he's not in a hurry! He was so helpful today. He emptied the dishwasher and vacuumed the living room...granted I had to do half of both tasks, I didn't mind! And before you turn me in for child labor...he was compensated for his chores. He also helped me mow which made my day. It goes by WAY faster when there are 2 of us working on it. He was fantastic until the storm came through. He HATES storms. Needless to say...he's in my bed.
Matthew...what a silly boy! He's been my snuggler the last couple days. I'm not sure what's going on, unles Lily's arrival has affected his world as well. He wants to bad to be independent and to have the same things and responsibilities that Andrew does, but when asked to follow through on them he is very happy to regress! He ate hot lunch with Andrew today and believe it or not he ate it well. He is loving Mommy being home more.
Mr. Christopher. Talk about a kid with personality. He is so laid back and happy I'm not sure what to do with him. He was fine until Miss Lily came along and realized that Mommy is holding another baby! :) Now he has to keep me in his sight at all time. He doesn't say much, but when he can't see me I hear him say "Mom" and then when I come around the corner to praise him, I just get a grin from ear to ear and this look like..."What are you talking about?" He is so close to crawling. Right now he just kind of rolls back and forth on his stomach until he gets to where he wants to go...Needless to say, he can cover ground in no time flat!
I will try to keep this up. The boys love to read their Mom's thoughts about them! Until tomorrow, Sleep well my boys!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
New Backpacks
School starts tomorrow and I got the boys new backpacks this year. Andrew didn't need one, but I got him a good one with the threat that he doesn't get another one til junior high.
As we were getting ready tonight for school in the a.m. I notice that Matt is franctically digging through his bag and so I asked him what he was looking for and he says..."My new phone."
He carries a toy phone with him most places so I thought I would clarify..."what phone."
His reply..."The phone that came with my bag. It's not in here. We have to take it back!"
There was a tag pointing out the media aspects of the bag with a picture of a phone on it!
As we were getting ready tonight for school in the a.m. I notice that Matt is franctically digging through his bag and so I asked him what he was looking for and he says..."My new phone."
He carries a toy phone with him most places so I thought I would clarify..."what phone."
His reply..."The phone that came with my bag. It's not in here. We have to take it back!"
There was a tag pointing out the media aspects of the bag with a picture of a phone on it!
Wednesday, March 03, 2010
Oh BOYS!
There are always a thousand things that I want to write down or blog real quick everyday, but since Chris has arrived, that doesn't happen so well! Today, just reminded me how fast the boys are growing up.
Andrew got his hair cut today and sat in the chair to get it cut and usually I just tell them to cut it short, but this time he wanted it cut this way, but not that way and this short on the side and medium short on the side. Then reminds me it's shot night (allergy shots) and then helps Grandma Shoe out at the paper. He then returns home to play outside for a bit to then help clean the living room and by this time...it is time for bed! I look at him and wonder where time has gone! He is getting so big!
Matthew...let me just sum him up by this...he comes up to me tonight and says...Mom, I want to go to China tomorrow! You can come too! I'm not sure where he comes up with this stuff. While Andrew was helping clean up the living room Matt bursts into a full out bawling session. I asked what the matter was and he informed me that he was baling and that Andrew has ruined his hayfield. Oy vey!
I know I'm gonna blink and then be celebrating Chris' first birthday! He's more and more smiley every day. He's just so content and laid back...for now! We are still dealing with the RSV and although the breathing treatments are getting fewer and further between, the nasty cough is still around and harsh. He coughs up nasty stuff and then chokes on it. He doesn't like when I go in with the little sucker to help him out! He's learning that things are going on when he's sleeping because he's starting to fight his sleep! All of thise before he hits 3 months!
Andrew got his hair cut today and sat in the chair to get it cut and usually I just tell them to cut it short, but this time he wanted it cut this way, but not that way and this short on the side and medium short on the side. Then reminds me it's shot night (allergy shots) and then helps Grandma Shoe out at the paper. He then returns home to play outside for a bit to then help clean the living room and by this time...it is time for bed! I look at him and wonder where time has gone! He is getting so big!
Matthew...let me just sum him up by this...he comes up to me tonight and says...Mom, I want to go to China tomorrow! You can come too! I'm not sure where he comes up with this stuff. While Andrew was helping clean up the living room Matt bursts into a full out bawling session. I asked what the matter was and he informed me that he was baling and that Andrew has ruined his hayfield. Oy vey!
I know I'm gonna blink and then be celebrating Chris' first birthday! He's more and more smiley every day. He's just so content and laid back...for now! We are still dealing with the RSV and although the breathing treatments are getting fewer and further between, the nasty cough is still around and harsh. He coughs up nasty stuff and then chokes on it. He doesn't like when I go in with the little sucker to help him out! He's learning that things are going on when he's sleeping because he's starting to fight his sleep! All of thise before he hits 3 months!
Monday, February 15, 2010
8 weeks
Wow...8 weeks...that seems crazy!!! I can't believe it!
Mr. Christopher went in for his check up today and weighs 11 pounds 10 oz and is 23 3/4 inches long! Although that seems like he is doing awesome...which he is...in comparison, Drew was 10 lbs at 2 weeks and I can't seem to find Matthew's!
Christopher woke up this morning smiling and giggling in reaction to those around him!!! He's such a laid back kiddo, but when he has his mind made up...WATCH OUT!
Mr. Christopher went in for his check up today and weighs 11 pounds 10 oz and is 23 3/4 inches long! Although that seems like he is doing awesome...which he is...in comparison, Drew was 10 lbs at 2 weeks and I can't seem to find Matthew's!
Christopher woke up this morning smiling and giggling in reaction to those around him!!! He's such a laid back kiddo, but when he has his mind made up...WATCH OUT!
Sunday, February 07, 2010
All worked up!
I put Chris in his swing tonight so I could get a couple things done before I needed to feed him one last time!
I looked over and his arms were flailing and he was huffing and puffing, looking off to the right! The minute his hand hit the toy giraffe that is on his swing...he calmed down...until he moved his hand that is! :)
Then the cycle began again!
I looked over and his arms were flailing and he was huffing and puffing, looking off to the right! The minute his hand hit the toy giraffe that is on his swing...he calmed down...until he moved his hand that is! :)
Then the cycle began again!
Monday, February 01, 2010
Plan B
Well...we lasted on formula until about 10:30 last night as Jason and I could take any more of hearing Chris scream after each bottle! This wasn't our baby! So we gave him a big bottle of breastmilk and 30 seconds later he was content and asleep on my lap. He woke up 90 min later and had another bottle of breastmilk, but then he slept for 6.5 hours!! That was awesome compared to the previous night of him screaming for hours at a time!
I called Dr. K's office today to report that we gave it 31 hours, but he was screaming after each bottle so we went back to breastmilk and if he had any more to say! I was able to report that his jaundice had lessened, but wasn't gone!
He called back and said that although it was good that it was lessening he wanted to try to do 1 4oz bottle a day, with optimal being 2! This was a little better, knowing I could have him calmed down by bedtime. However, he barely drinks 2 oz of formula at a time...how is my little man gonna eat 4? I mean, it's already bothering his tummy!
So, in tweaking his orders/suggestions, I figured we will do formula in the morning and I will still give him the 2 oz at a time because I don't need to make things worse for his tummy!
I just have to get to Friday! My goal is 8 oz of formula for him! That's what Dr. K wants...his delivery may just be slightly different!
I called Dr. K's office today to report that we gave it 31 hours, but he was screaming after each bottle so we went back to breastmilk and if he had any more to say! I was able to report that his jaundice had lessened, but wasn't gone!
He called back and said that although it was good that it was lessening he wanted to try to do 1 4oz bottle a day, with optimal being 2! This was a little better, knowing I could have him calmed down by bedtime. However, he barely drinks 2 oz of formula at a time...how is my little man gonna eat 4? I mean, it's already bothering his tummy!
So, in tweaking his orders/suggestions, I figured we will do formula in the morning and I will still give him the 2 oz at a time because I don't need to make things worse for his tummy!
I just have to get to Friday! My goal is 8 oz of formula for him! That's what Dr. K wants...his delivery may just be slightly different!
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Breastmilk vs Formula
I have busted my nuts these last 6 weeks...yes 6 weeks! Can you believe it?! :) Anyway, been working my tail off trying to get this breastfeeding thing to work and to have enough milk for Christopher. He's remained jaundiced and when at 5 weeks we took him to meet Dr. K...he was very alarmed by his color. He checked his bili and it was 12.2 and that's where it's been hanging out!
Dr. K was worried that his liver wasn't functioning right, but his direct bili was 0, so that was a good result and showed his liver was fine. He also did a CBC and although everything was fine, he was slightly anemic. So in true Dr. K fashion, he was worried that something else could be going on.
When he talked to me on Friday, he suggested putting him on formula for a couple days to see if the jaundice would go away and then he would know it was breastmilk jaundice! Although, I knew this worked, I wasn't too set on it! I pondered it Friday and thought...ya know...I'm just gonna keep nursing him because I've worked so hard to get it to work and I am doing this to help protect him against allergies or lessen them maybe!
When Dr. K called Saturday morning to check on him and discuss things again and expressed how worried he was and that he would probably do more testing if we didn't do the formula test just to make sure that he didn't have another hemolytic disease or something!
After crying to Jason about how frustrated I was that I had worked so hard and that I was scared to give it up because I was afraid he wouldn't go back to breast milk again, we decided that if he saved him pokes it was in Chris' best interest!
We started formula at 4 p.m. yesterday and let me just say, last night was hell! He doesn't like the formula, which yay for me in a way...boo for my sleeping pattern! He just screams at times. For 6 weeks, he has done not much more than whine or fuss for a couple minutes, but this is screaming! He's not content what so ever!
I feel horrible, but will be glad when this trial is done in the next few hours.
Dr. K was worried that his liver wasn't functioning right, but his direct bili was 0, so that was a good result and showed his liver was fine. He also did a CBC and although everything was fine, he was slightly anemic. So in true Dr. K fashion, he was worried that something else could be going on.
When he talked to me on Friday, he suggested putting him on formula for a couple days to see if the jaundice would go away and then he would know it was breastmilk jaundice! Although, I knew this worked, I wasn't too set on it! I pondered it Friday and thought...ya know...I'm just gonna keep nursing him because I've worked so hard to get it to work and I am doing this to help protect him against allergies or lessen them maybe!
When Dr. K called Saturday morning to check on him and discuss things again and expressed how worried he was and that he would probably do more testing if we didn't do the formula test just to make sure that he didn't have another hemolytic disease or something!
After crying to Jason about how frustrated I was that I had worked so hard and that I was scared to give it up because I was afraid he wouldn't go back to breast milk again, we decided that if he saved him pokes it was in Chris' best interest!
We started formula at 4 p.m. yesterday and let me just say, last night was hell! He doesn't like the formula, which yay for me in a way...boo for my sleeping pattern! He just screams at times. For 6 weeks, he has done not much more than whine or fuss for a couple minutes, but this is screaming! He's not content what so ever!
I feel horrible, but will be glad when this trial is done in the next few hours.
I don't think so!
For those who are around Andrew a lot, they know that he is quick to respond and always HAS to respond!
The other day we were on our way to Grandma Shoe's house and Matt was trying to ask me something as I was trying to back out of the driveway. I told him to hold on a minute and in the meantime Andrew attempted to answer and this was Matthew's response:
"Andrew, I'm talking to Mom! Is your name Mom? I don't think so!"
Where he got this, I'm not sure, but 4 days later I am still getting many chuckles out of it!
The other day we were on our way to Grandma Shoe's house and Matt was trying to ask me something as I was trying to back out of the driveway. I told him to hold on a minute and in the meantime Andrew attempted to answer and this was Matthew's response:
"Andrew, I'm talking to Mom! Is your name Mom? I don't think so!"
Where he got this, I'm not sure, but 4 days later I am still getting many chuckles out of it!
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Rock-a-bye
Big Matt bought Christopher a new swing! Not only because he is an awesome best friend, but he's also Chris' godfather!
I was proud of myself when I was able to put it together. The downside is Andrew wanted to attempt the same thing and was way more help than I needed! We got it put together though with only one extra piece! Have no fear though, I did eventually figure out where that other piece went!
We did this all while Matt was with Aunt Claire! :) Needless to say...because of the new swing fascination, Matthew was in time out within 10 min of being home!
I still think Matt needs hearing aides, because the only time he hears me is when I talk loud! :)
I would also like to say...God bless the inventor of the baby swing! :)
I was proud of myself when I was able to put it together. The downside is Andrew wanted to attempt the same thing and was way more help than I needed! We got it put together though with only one extra piece! Have no fear though, I did eventually figure out where that other piece went!
We did this all while Matt was with Aunt Claire! :) Needless to say...because of the new swing fascination, Matthew was in time out within 10 min of being home!
I still think Matt needs hearing aides, because the only time he hears me is when I talk loud! :)
I would also like to say...God bless the inventor of the baby swing! :)
When I grow up!
Matthew has informed me today that he is going to be Batman when he grows up!
He did reassure me however, not to worry because he would still live with me!
He informed me that I would have to get a new bed for him because he would be bigger, but if I didn't want to he could just share a bed with me!!
I can't wait to share this story when he is 18! :)
He did reassure me however, not to worry because he would still live with me!
He informed me that I would have to get a new bed for him because he would be bigger, but if I didn't want to he could just share a bed with me!!
I can't wait to share this story when he is 18! :)
Monday, January 04, 2010
Chocolate vs Cocoa
This evening the boys were out sledding in our yard! When they hit the door Matt yells...
"Mom, we want hot cocoa!"
Andrew then informs him that it is not only called hot cocoa, but it is also called hot chocolate! They then proceeded to have a 10 min conversation on whether or not it should be called Hot cocoa or hot chocolate!
They ended up sticking with Matt calling it hot cocoa and Andrew calling it hot chocolate!
"Mom, we want hot cocoa!"
Andrew then informs him that it is not only called hot cocoa, but it is also called hot chocolate! They then proceeded to have a 10 min conversation on whether or not it should be called Hot cocoa or hot chocolate!
They ended up sticking with Matt calling it hot cocoa and Andrew calling it hot chocolate!
Astronauts
Andrew asked me tonight as we were getting home from school....
"Mom, how come when astronauts are walking toward the spaceship they are always walking in slow motion?"
I unfortunately didn't have an answer for him!
"Mom, how come when astronauts are walking toward the spaceship they are always walking in slow motion?"
I unfortunately didn't have an answer for him!
Sunday, January 03, 2010
God vs. Dog
We are sitting here eating lunch today and Andrew strikes up a conversation!
"Mom, you know how dog and God are the same?"
I gave him a sideways look and questioned where he was going with this!
"Yeah, if you turn God around it's dog and if you turn dog around it's God!"
Oh, the complex minds of a 6 year old! Love it!
"Mom, you know how dog and God are the same?"
I gave him a sideways look and questioned where he was going with this!
"Yeah, if you turn God around it's dog and if you turn dog around it's God!"
Oh, the complex minds of a 6 year old! Love it!
Church
Last night I made the decision that we are going to church as a family! We were getting ready and the boys were kind of whining that they didn't want to go and Matthew asked if Christopher was going to go and I said yes...
Matt's response...but Mom, he don't know how to pray!
Matt's response...but Mom, he don't know how to pray!
Saturday, January 02, 2010
Double Take
Please forgive me as I am sure that over the next few weeks as my hormones regulate, that you will get a lot of sappy, hormone balancing blogs, beginning with this one tonight!
I've known for the last 13 years that I've wanted to name a child Chris after...Chris obviously...but I would have to convince my other half of it! When we decided to give Christopher his name, Jason wanted to use Chris Eugene, which is exactly what my cousin's name was! I didn't care for the "Eugene" (Sorry aunt Cathy!) and I wanted my child to have it be partly his own as well...hence...Christopher!
Now, the weird part for me is when I hear Andrew call him Chris or even myself saying Chris, it's weird! Even typing it and watching as it comes out, I don't feel like "Chris" is his yet. He is very much a Christopher I know this and I don't doubt the name decision what-so-ever...especially when his dimples showed up the other day.
The hard part for me right now...keep in mind that I'm regulating hormones...is that even though it's been 13 years, "Chris" still belongs very much so with some still vivid memories! This including the last night I saw him at my confirmation...3 weeks before he died...goofing around and picking on my boyfriend at the time!! It also includes a very vivid memory of one heck of a croquet game which was the last time we were all together as a family with Chris and Beth.
And I know that in good time, the name will transition for me, but for right now, there are days it's hard to swallow! I was sitting in church tonight staring at my Christopher, with part of my heart wanting to keep this little family I have exactly like I have it, but not wanting the option of using the name Chris for the reason we did...does that make sense? I wish I had both of them!
I just remind myself that I still have the big Chris! He's very much alive in my thoughts and I'm sure some day in my Chris' actions! It's crazy how some of the things that transpired in my pregnancy and how his personality is so far that mimic his namesake!
I've known for the last 13 years that I've wanted to name a child Chris after...Chris obviously...but I would have to convince my other half of it! When we decided to give Christopher his name, Jason wanted to use Chris Eugene, which is exactly what my cousin's name was! I didn't care for the "Eugene" (Sorry aunt Cathy!) and I wanted my child to have it be partly his own as well...hence...Christopher!
Now, the weird part for me is when I hear Andrew call him Chris or even myself saying Chris, it's weird! Even typing it and watching as it comes out, I don't feel like "Chris" is his yet. He is very much a Christopher I know this and I don't doubt the name decision what-so-ever...especially when his dimples showed up the other day.
The hard part for me right now...keep in mind that I'm regulating hormones...is that even though it's been 13 years, "Chris" still belongs very much so with some still vivid memories! This including the last night I saw him at my confirmation...3 weeks before he died...goofing around and picking on my boyfriend at the time!! It also includes a very vivid memory of one heck of a croquet game which was the last time we were all together as a family with Chris and Beth.
And I know that in good time, the name will transition for me, but for right now, there are days it's hard to swallow! I was sitting in church tonight staring at my Christopher, with part of my heart wanting to keep this little family I have exactly like I have it, but not wanting the option of using the name Chris for the reason we did...does that make sense? I wish I had both of them!
I just remind myself that I still have the big Chris! He's very much alive in my thoughts and I'm sure some day in my Chris' actions! It's crazy how some of the things that transpired in my pregnancy and how his personality is so far that mimic his namesake!
Long Labor
Two weeks later, I am finally getting this memorialized, as if I need to because I'm pretty sure the whole experience in imbedded in my brain for the rest of eternity!
We went in on Dec. 18, for a cytotec induction with Mr. Christopher! He inserted one cytotec and contractions got going a little bit before 11 a.m.! They didn't start slow either, they started right off every 2-3 min apart! We used that and tried to get up with them and on the ball to ger me dilating! They stayed that close all day! Nicki Dougherty, the nurse that delivered me and helped deliver Matthew did everything in her power to help get this baby out, but he was stubborn and my dilation was slow!
Friday evening, we were still contracting, but a long way from baby...so much for each delivery gets quicker!
Around midnight - 1 a.m. the contractions began to slow down and spread and I was able to get some rest in preparation for the pitocin on Saturday morning! Amanda was good with keeping my pain meds in check so I could get good rest!
Saturday morning we were greeted by Jolene who had every intention of getting Chris to show up as soon as possible...again, this child had a mind of his own. Pit got started around 7:35 a.m. and shortly after contractions were in full swing again. It wasn't until around 9:30 that they were starting to really bother me though!
At 10 a.m. or around there, Wendell showed up to get my epidural in and after many attempts to put it in, because my back was so swollen and my husband almost passing out, I was able to rest for awhile.
The afternoon moved slowly and i was getting frustrated because I couldn't do anything because I had no use of my legs and I wasn't dilating at all it seemed. Around 5 p.m. Doc showed up and broke my water. I had so much fluid...it was all over the bed and the floor and still kept flowing out like a flippin river!!!
Dilation took off shortly after and around 7 p.m. Jolene started setting up for a delivery that we were sure that we were going to have by 8:30 p.m.! We shut my epidural off so I could feel the contractions...my request.
At 9 p.m. I was STILL a 9 and wasn't making any progress. I was starting to have this piercing pain in my right groin area after each contraction that hurt worse than the contraction so Wendell came back in to help me get comfortable, which he did a great job with. I was exhausted though. I was crying and tired and didn't know why I was crying and the only thing I could do was apologize for crying! Jason remained surprised that I was still able to cry so much.
Dr. Pete showed up around 10 and had me push a couple times to then have the truth be known as to why I was progressing so slow...Chris was positioned wrong! So now, with each contraction, I pushed and Dr. Pete tried to turn Chris. He was able to get him turned slightly after 45 min. of pushing and had hopes that he would just come now.
After another 45 min of pushing and Chris not budging what-so-ever...the decision was made to take him out via c-section. By this time it was 11:30, I was exhausted and could barely hold my own legs up any more and the piercing pain in my groin was still there, although the rest of my pain was under control.
Jason, my sister, Jolene and Dr. Pete had helped me through the longest 90 min. Dr. Pete even stayed at my bedside the entire time, holding my leg and watching Chris on the monitor! Jolene had a knee in her chest the entire time and I felt bad for it, but am pretty sure she may have been a little sore the next day! Red later told me that I was pulling on her bad wrist and Jason got what he deserved as he had got me in this predicament...HAHA!
After Dr. Pete left the room to get ready for the C-section, I lost it! I was terrified! I could feel Chris' head where I didn't think it was good! We were able to get it through my cervix, but he wouldn't budge any further! I was terrified...there were so many things going through my head that could go wrong or were already wrong!
Mariclaire was there instantly to dry my tears as well as Jason, Red and Red was calling dad to let him know the plan!
The c-section started and they got him out...but he didn't cry right away...I did! His 1 min apgar was 7 (3 points off) and I cried harder! That meant that there was something wrong...maybe not bad wrong, but something was off and I didn't know if it was for color, tone or breathing!!! He then started to whimper and finally cry...and I cried more...he was fine...then they called out his 5 min apgar...9!!! He was close to perfect (10!)!!!
Amanda and Jolene held him up and he was so long and handsome! He had some awesome markings on his head thanks to my pelvic bone and ischial spine, but he was fine! Red called it his Harry Potter scar because it looked like a lightening bolt, but was gone shortly after!!!
After everything had settled down I asked Dr. Pete if there was any chance he was coming out...I meant vaginally...Dr. Pete just laughed and Dr. Ptacek said...yeah...c-section!!
He was positioned, face up coming out towards my right thigh, rather than straight on! To top it off, the cord was wrapped around his neck, then underneath his arm and then wrapped around his body!
Once I got my hands on him, he was perfect! He looked just like his brothers and Dad was proud and so were his aunt, great-aunt and Papa Shoe...who all greeted him outside the operating room!
I couldn't ask for a better team to bring him into the world!!! Dr. Pete was a little crabby the next morning, but I chalked it up to only a few hours of sleep! I later found out that he didn't sleep much when he went home because it bothered him that he had to section me! I had a healthy baby...I didn't care too much! I just wouldn't have signed up voluntarily for a c-section!
Now, 2 weeks later, I still have the perfect baby and 2 great big boys and an amazing husband who is lacking sleep just as much as his wife! I just don't know that I'm ready to repeat all of this again any time soon!
We went in on Dec. 18, for a cytotec induction with Mr. Christopher! He inserted one cytotec and contractions got going a little bit before 11 a.m.! They didn't start slow either, they started right off every 2-3 min apart! We used that and tried to get up with them and on the ball to ger me dilating! They stayed that close all day! Nicki Dougherty, the nurse that delivered me and helped deliver Matthew did everything in her power to help get this baby out, but he was stubborn and my dilation was slow!
Friday evening, we were still contracting, but a long way from baby...so much for each delivery gets quicker!
Around midnight - 1 a.m. the contractions began to slow down and spread and I was able to get some rest in preparation for the pitocin on Saturday morning! Amanda was good with keeping my pain meds in check so I could get good rest!
Saturday morning we were greeted by Jolene who had every intention of getting Chris to show up as soon as possible...again, this child had a mind of his own. Pit got started around 7:35 a.m. and shortly after contractions were in full swing again. It wasn't until around 9:30 that they were starting to really bother me though!
At 10 a.m. or around there, Wendell showed up to get my epidural in and after many attempts to put it in, because my back was so swollen and my husband almost passing out, I was able to rest for awhile.
The afternoon moved slowly and i was getting frustrated because I couldn't do anything because I had no use of my legs and I wasn't dilating at all it seemed. Around 5 p.m. Doc showed up and broke my water. I had so much fluid...it was all over the bed and the floor and still kept flowing out like a flippin river!!!
Dilation took off shortly after and around 7 p.m. Jolene started setting up for a delivery that we were sure that we were going to have by 8:30 p.m.! We shut my epidural off so I could feel the contractions...my request.
At 9 p.m. I was STILL a 9 and wasn't making any progress. I was starting to have this piercing pain in my right groin area after each contraction that hurt worse than the contraction so Wendell came back in to help me get comfortable, which he did a great job with. I was exhausted though. I was crying and tired and didn't know why I was crying and the only thing I could do was apologize for crying! Jason remained surprised that I was still able to cry so much.
Dr. Pete showed up around 10 and had me push a couple times to then have the truth be known as to why I was progressing so slow...Chris was positioned wrong! So now, with each contraction, I pushed and Dr. Pete tried to turn Chris. He was able to get him turned slightly after 45 min. of pushing and had hopes that he would just come now.
After another 45 min of pushing and Chris not budging what-so-ever...the decision was made to take him out via c-section. By this time it was 11:30, I was exhausted and could barely hold my own legs up any more and the piercing pain in my groin was still there, although the rest of my pain was under control.
Jason, my sister, Jolene and Dr. Pete had helped me through the longest 90 min. Dr. Pete even stayed at my bedside the entire time, holding my leg and watching Chris on the monitor! Jolene had a knee in her chest the entire time and I felt bad for it, but am pretty sure she may have been a little sore the next day! Red later told me that I was pulling on her bad wrist and Jason got what he deserved as he had got me in this predicament...HAHA!
After Dr. Pete left the room to get ready for the C-section, I lost it! I was terrified! I could feel Chris' head where I didn't think it was good! We were able to get it through my cervix, but he wouldn't budge any further! I was terrified...there were so many things going through my head that could go wrong or were already wrong!
Mariclaire was there instantly to dry my tears as well as Jason, Red and Red was calling dad to let him know the plan!
The c-section started and they got him out...but he didn't cry right away...I did! His 1 min apgar was 7 (3 points off) and I cried harder! That meant that there was something wrong...maybe not bad wrong, but something was off and I didn't know if it was for color, tone or breathing!!! He then started to whimper and finally cry...and I cried more...he was fine...then they called out his 5 min apgar...9!!! He was close to perfect (10!)!!!
Amanda and Jolene held him up and he was so long and handsome! He had some awesome markings on his head thanks to my pelvic bone and ischial spine, but he was fine! Red called it his Harry Potter scar because it looked like a lightening bolt, but was gone shortly after!!!
After everything had settled down I asked Dr. Pete if there was any chance he was coming out...I meant vaginally...Dr. Pete just laughed and Dr. Ptacek said...yeah...c-section!!
He was positioned, face up coming out towards my right thigh, rather than straight on! To top it off, the cord was wrapped around his neck, then underneath his arm and then wrapped around his body!
Once I got my hands on him, he was perfect! He looked just like his brothers and Dad was proud and so were his aunt, great-aunt and Papa Shoe...who all greeted him outside the operating room!
I couldn't ask for a better team to bring him into the world!!! Dr. Pete was a little crabby the next morning, but I chalked it up to only a few hours of sleep! I later found out that he didn't sleep much when he went home because it bothered him that he had to section me! I had a healthy baby...I didn't care too much! I just wouldn't have signed up voluntarily for a c-section!
Now, 2 weeks later, I still have the perfect baby and 2 great big boys and an amazing husband who is lacking sleep just as much as his wife! I just don't know that I'm ready to repeat all of this again any time soon!
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Gingerbread House Fun!
We built gingerbread houses today as a family! I helped Matthew build his and Andrew had Dad build his!
Matthew and I started off with the basic house...4 sides and a roof! This isn't saying that it didn't collapse 3 times on me! The whole time wondering how Mariclaire gets this to work every year with 1st graders! Matt was starting to give up on me, but then we got it to stand!!! He decorated it and made sure it had a chimney and even had smoke coming out of it til that fell over as well!!! Matt made sure that since there was a chimney that there was a fire inside! It was too funny! He would give me a piece of candy to put where ever I wanted it, but repeatedly it got removed and I was then told where to put it!
Andrew and Jason had a litttle built high expectations! They started with a garage that then led to a 2nd floor and then to a roof that quickly collapsed the whole thing! This was about the last straw for Jason as the graham crackers I got decided to all fall to pieces when Jason tried to put frosting on them! After Jason got it all built, it was Andrew's time to decorate! It was covered patterns! The whole house was decorated with a pattern! So he proudly brought it over to me to show me and get his picture taken and 30 seconds after I took a picture with my phone...it collapsed! He wanted to cry, but Jason and I started to laugh and stated that we will just say that Hurricane Andrew won!! He thought that it meant that it was going to have to be thrown away, but Jason and I informed him that it means he could eat it then!!
It was an awesome afternoon filled with laughter and tears and screams (as the house fell for the 3rd time!) . I asked Jason if he wanted to repeat the activity tomorrow and he answered me quickly...NO! I think all the broken graham crackers got to him! :)
Matthew and I started off with the basic house...4 sides and a roof! This isn't saying that it didn't collapse 3 times on me! The whole time wondering how Mariclaire gets this to work every year with 1st graders! Matt was starting to give up on me, but then we got it to stand!!! He decorated it and made sure it had a chimney and even had smoke coming out of it til that fell over as well!!! Matt made sure that since there was a chimney that there was a fire inside! It was too funny! He would give me a piece of candy to put where ever I wanted it, but repeatedly it got removed and I was then told where to put it!
Andrew and Jason had a litttle built high expectations! They started with a garage that then led to a 2nd floor and then to a roof that quickly collapsed the whole thing! This was about the last straw for Jason as the graham crackers I got decided to all fall to pieces when Jason tried to put frosting on them! After Jason got it all built, it was Andrew's time to decorate! It was covered patterns! The whole house was decorated with a pattern! So he proudly brought it over to me to show me and get his picture taken and 30 seconds after I took a picture with my phone...it collapsed! He wanted to cry, but Jason and I started to laugh and stated that we will just say that Hurricane Andrew won!! He thought that it meant that it was going to have to be thrown away, but Jason and I informed him that it means he could eat it then!!
It was an awesome afternoon filled with laughter and tears and screams (as the house fell for the 3rd time!) . I asked Jason if he wanted to repeat the activity tomorrow and he answered me quickly...NO! I think all the broken graham crackers got to him! :)
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Fa la la la la!
I now know what my parents went through!
Andrew is just like me in the sense that he is always singing it seems like! Currently he is singing Christmas songs which is fantastic, however, he doesn't know all the words to all of them yet so he continually sings them wrong over and over and OVER again!
At times he just fills in...fa la la la la...when he doesn't know the words...God love him for the singing...God help my sanity!
Don't think I'm horrible though...9 times out of 10 I correct him by joining in and helping him out! It's just that 1 time usually that it gets to me!
I do love it though...he's so proud of himself!
Andrew is just like me in the sense that he is always singing it seems like! Currently he is singing Christmas songs which is fantastic, however, he doesn't know all the words to all of them yet so he continually sings them wrong over and over and OVER again!
At times he just fills in...fa la la la la...when he doesn't know the words...God love him for the singing...God help my sanity!
Don't think I'm horrible though...9 times out of 10 I correct him by joining in and helping him out! It's just that 1 time usually that it gets to me!
I do love it though...he's so proud of himself!
Darn Bed!
I've been meaning to blog this for days, but am just now getting to it!
Last week Matt had crawled into my room and when I discovered him...yes that is how stealth like he is...he had crawled clear out of his room and 3/4 of the way through my room before I heard him!
I said...Matt get to bed!
He popped up and goes..."Mom, I just can't take my bed anymore!"
Then...last night Jason and I THOUGHT he was in his bed sleeping and much to my surprise when I got up and went to the bathroom...he was laying on the floor in the doorway of his bedroom...3 inches from our door...ASLEEP!
Jason and I had to contain our laughter before we could get him picked up and put back in bed!
Last week Matt had crawled into my room and when I discovered him...yes that is how stealth like he is...he had crawled clear out of his room and 3/4 of the way through my room before I heard him!
I said...Matt get to bed!
He popped up and goes..."Mom, I just can't take my bed anymore!"
Then...last night Jason and I THOUGHT he was in his bed sleeping and much to my surprise when I got up and went to the bathroom...he was laying on the floor in the doorway of his bedroom...3 inches from our door...ASLEEP!
Jason and I had to contain our laughter before we could get him picked up and put back in bed!
38 weeks...and waiting!!!
Had you asked me 2 1/2 weeks ago if I would be still pregnant now, I would have told you no! Fortunately for Chris and unfortunately for me...I still am! :)
Checked in with the doc on Tuesday and he was concerned about my being a little dehydrated, but I informed him that I was sick the day before and it was only 10 a.m. so he can't expect miracles!! I told him he got his miracle with me hitting 38 weeks! :)
I also told Doc that I was going for an elephant pregnancy (2 years) and he just laughed at me! I stick with the fact that he doesn't totally get it since he's never felt like the size of a small country while something is jumping on your bladder! :)
Before going to the office, I had a non-stress done and Chris was himself...he kept very still until I had to start provoking him! His strip was awesome again!
We also had a ultrasound to make sure he hadn't flipped and that my amniotic fluid level was still in good condition. Needless to say I went in hoping that the fluid level was not in good shape because that would mean that we would have gotten to meet this little man! Obviously, the level was great! He just moved all over the place and kept Matthew in awe! We also learned that he has some hair! He is also making breathing motions which is a good sign!
He kept up his end of the bargain by measuring almost 8 lbs! Keep in mind that it is give or take a pound! Amanda, the sonographer, tried to encourage me by saying that she can't get "accurate" measurements because of his size and where I'm at in my pregnancy, but it wasn't that reassuring! HAHA! He doesn't feel like a "take a pound!"
I had a horrible night the other night when I started contracting around 3:30 in the a.m. and it continued throughout the day! I got good sleep last night and feel like a million bucks! Even though I wasn't feeling well the boys and I made a cake, a meal and finished wrapping presents up to this point!! So I was slightly productive!
We continue to wait...and every day it's a little bit more impatiently! Jason and I are ready to hold him, rather than poke at my belly! Matthew has gotten very quiet and reserved the last couple of days so either he knows something is happening soon or he's not sure what to think! He just keeps coming up to me and resting his head on my belly!
Andrew is plotting the big "unveiling" at school for show and tell! I told him to just hold off!
Only 1 more week at the most! The 18th is just around the corner! :)
Checked in with the doc on Tuesday and he was concerned about my being a little dehydrated, but I informed him that I was sick the day before and it was only 10 a.m. so he can't expect miracles!! I told him he got his miracle with me hitting 38 weeks! :)
I also told Doc that I was going for an elephant pregnancy (2 years) and he just laughed at me! I stick with the fact that he doesn't totally get it since he's never felt like the size of a small country while something is jumping on your bladder! :)
Before going to the office, I had a non-stress done and Chris was himself...he kept very still until I had to start provoking him! His strip was awesome again!
We also had a ultrasound to make sure he hadn't flipped and that my amniotic fluid level was still in good condition. Needless to say I went in hoping that the fluid level was not in good shape because that would mean that we would have gotten to meet this little man! Obviously, the level was great! He just moved all over the place and kept Matthew in awe! We also learned that he has some hair! He is also making breathing motions which is a good sign!
He kept up his end of the bargain by measuring almost 8 lbs! Keep in mind that it is give or take a pound! Amanda, the sonographer, tried to encourage me by saying that she can't get "accurate" measurements because of his size and where I'm at in my pregnancy, but it wasn't that reassuring! HAHA! He doesn't feel like a "take a pound!"
I had a horrible night the other night when I started contracting around 3:30 in the a.m. and it continued throughout the day! I got good sleep last night and feel like a million bucks! Even though I wasn't feeling well the boys and I made a cake, a meal and finished wrapping presents up to this point!! So I was slightly productive!
We continue to wait...and every day it's a little bit more impatiently! Jason and I are ready to hold him, rather than poke at my belly! Matthew has gotten very quiet and reserved the last couple of days so either he knows something is happening soon or he's not sure what to think! He just keeps coming up to me and resting his head on my belly!
Andrew is plotting the big "unveiling" at school for show and tell! I told him to just hold off!
Only 1 more week at the most! The 18th is just around the corner! :)
Thursday, December 03, 2009
YAY We made it...37 weeks!!!
I returned to home...my amazing home on Monday! I never knew I would be so happy to see it, but after 8 days away, I was ready for it!
I checked in with Dr. Pete on Tuesday and voiced my opinions and concerns about the horrible experience I had down there! He laughed at a few of the stories that I shared! :) I did not find them funny at the time! :) We made plans that if I have not had this stubborn child by the 18th...we are helping him along!
Everything checked out good! Did a non-stress test and after he decided to cooperate he had a good strip!
Tuesday night around 9:30 I started contracting...I didn't think much of it until the next day around 1 p.m. when I was still doing it and miserable. Most of the contractions were in my back with some awesome ones in the front as well. I didn't really care if I was contracting, I just didn't want to be miserable for no reason!
So Dr. Pete had me come down to the clinic to check things out and much to my surprise the contractions weren't for nothing! I was at 3 cms and 50% effaced and April said she could stretch me to a 4! She also said I was very soft and anterior so that when things started...watch out!! I have heard that comment before so wasn't too surprised.
For a girl who took forever to dilate with the other 2 boys, I was like...heck yeah!!! :)
I returned home to keep contracting until about 11 p.m. They stayed in my back , but had slowed immensely!
I have felt better today, minus the feeling of tripping over his head when I walk! I still remain low and do very little...especially since my Mother-in-law who is staying with me...is insistant on it!
It makes me feel guilty that she is doing all this and I am just planted on my couch or in my bed! On the awesome side...we have bought ourselves 10 more days and have hit 37 weeks which excites me!
I am back to the doctor tomorrow and have another non-stress as well! I am also counting down the days until Jason gets home! Each day I ask him to come home a day sooner!!! I was spoiled last week when I had him for 8 days! I can't wait for him to be home for a couple weeks when the baby gets here!
I checked in with Dr. Pete on Tuesday and voiced my opinions and concerns about the horrible experience I had down there! He laughed at a few of the stories that I shared! :) I did not find them funny at the time! :) We made plans that if I have not had this stubborn child by the 18th...we are helping him along!
Everything checked out good! Did a non-stress test and after he decided to cooperate he had a good strip!
Tuesday night around 9:30 I started contracting...I didn't think much of it until the next day around 1 p.m. when I was still doing it and miserable. Most of the contractions were in my back with some awesome ones in the front as well. I didn't really care if I was contracting, I just didn't want to be miserable for no reason!
So Dr. Pete had me come down to the clinic to check things out and much to my surprise the contractions weren't for nothing! I was at 3 cms and 50% effaced and April said she could stretch me to a 4! She also said I was very soft and anterior so that when things started...watch out!! I have heard that comment before so wasn't too surprised.
For a girl who took forever to dilate with the other 2 boys, I was like...heck yeah!!! :)
I returned home to keep contracting until about 11 p.m. They stayed in my back , but had slowed immensely!
I have felt better today, minus the feeling of tripping over his head when I walk! I still remain low and do very little...especially since my Mother-in-law who is staying with me...is insistant on it!
It makes me feel guilty that she is doing all this and I am just planted on my couch or in my bed! On the awesome side...we have bought ourselves 10 more days and have hit 37 weeks which excites me!
I am back to the doctor tomorrow and have another non-stress as well! I am also counting down the days until Jason gets home! Each day I ask him to come home a day sooner!!! I was spoiled last week when I had him for 8 days! I can't wait for him to be home for a couple weeks when the baby gets here!
Sunday, November 29, 2009
13 years...
I know that my sister and probably a few others...my mom and dad...would tell me to stop dwelling, which I'm not, but how do you forget a day that 13 years later you can remember moment for moment.
It was 13 years ago, on Nov. 29, that Chris was killed...along with his wife. Not my Chris, obviously, but the Chris that Christopher is being named for!
For those that didn't have the opportunity to meet him, I wish I could express how awesome he was! Now let me just say that his awesome-ness isn't only because he loved to help people, because he might just be one of the ornriest people I knew!
Many times Jason pulls things or says things that remind me of Chris and I just think...I wish you could have met him, but at times I'm glad you two can't co-conspire!
The day started off rough emotionally, because today is a day that I usually don't go anywhere, with the exception of last year for Jeff and Angie's wedding! Instead of being a hermit, I helped load my two little men up in the vehicle...okay so I sat on the couch while they left, but I got them ready...to travel to Paullina, Iowa, for Christmas with at their Great-Grandparent's.
It was very hard and emotional, but eventually was able to fall asleep and Jason and I woke up at 12:30! A much needed day to sleep in! They are almost back here and then we get to get things ready to GO HOME!!! YAY!
It was 13 years ago, on Nov. 29, that Chris was killed...along with his wife. Not my Chris, obviously, but the Chris that Christopher is being named for!
For those that didn't have the opportunity to meet him, I wish I could express how awesome he was! Now let me just say that his awesome-ness isn't only because he loved to help people, because he might just be one of the ornriest people I knew!
Many times Jason pulls things or says things that remind me of Chris and I just think...I wish you could have met him, but at times I'm glad you two can't co-conspire!
The day started off rough emotionally, because today is a day that I usually don't go anywhere, with the exception of last year for Jeff and Angie's wedding! Instead of being a hermit, I helped load my two little men up in the vehicle...okay so I sat on the couch while they left, but I got them ready...to travel to Paullina, Iowa, for Christmas with at their Great-Grandparent's.
It was very hard and emotional, but eventually was able to fall asleep and Jason and I woke up at 12:30! A much needed day to sleep in! They are almost back here and then we get to get things ready to GO HOME!!! YAY!
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Oh what a day...
My day started off with a call from Aunt Cathy to call and check on Chris and I. At that moment I had been awake for about 10 min and was feeling okay!
I was exhausted so moved out to the recliner and then once Jason got out and we got settled into our respective chairs...I passed out! When I woke up, I still wasn't feeling the hottest, but thought that I just may be still exhausted.
We ate lunch, gourmet macaroni and cheese prepared by Jason!! Jason was still stuck on turkey.
At about 1:30 my lower back started hurting in waves about every 2-3 min. My tummy wasn't hardening with each wave, but about every 15 min. This continued for about an hour before I called HOME to talk to Jolene! I know how to answer most of my questions when I am not the OB asking them!
The intermittent lower back pain progressed to the front of my abdomen and started in on a regular basis, but kept apart at about 10 min apart. I called the hospital down here to ask what they suggested, but their suggestion was to check in with my doctor at home!!!
I think I'm gonna send maps to all the hospitals in Omaha and suggest a geography lesson! Although it was a decent suggestion I could here Dr. Pete in my head going..."there isn't much I can do from here for you!" Of course though, he would give me suggestions. After that, I thought about calling Katie, a girl I wen to high school with that is an OB nurse in Sioux Falls! I just decided to grin and bear it!
I was also battling nausea off and on, but it improved long enough for me to eat a little something! Then I decided to take a shower and see if that would help! It helped alleviate the contraction discomfort for a little bit, but by the time I got out of the shower and hit the recliner again.
Now, I'm back to the recliner and the contractions are rotating between my back and my abdomen. My abdomen isn't getting tight with each one, so I will remain hanging out until they are every 5 min apart and I have to breath through them! I just keep praying that it is next week or the week after...in O'Neill!
I was exhausted so moved out to the recliner and then once Jason got out and we got settled into our respective chairs...I passed out! When I woke up, I still wasn't feeling the hottest, but thought that I just may be still exhausted.
We ate lunch, gourmet macaroni and cheese prepared by Jason!! Jason was still stuck on turkey.
At about 1:30 my lower back started hurting in waves about every 2-3 min. My tummy wasn't hardening with each wave, but about every 15 min. This continued for about an hour before I called HOME to talk to Jolene! I know how to answer most of my questions when I am not the OB asking them!
The intermittent lower back pain progressed to the front of my abdomen and started in on a regular basis, but kept apart at about 10 min apart. I called the hospital down here to ask what they suggested, but their suggestion was to check in with my doctor at home!!!
I think I'm gonna send maps to all the hospitals in Omaha and suggest a geography lesson! Although it was a decent suggestion I could here Dr. Pete in my head going..."there isn't much I can do from here for you!" Of course though, he would give me suggestions. After that, I thought about calling Katie, a girl I wen to high school with that is an OB nurse in Sioux Falls! I just decided to grin and bear it!
I was also battling nausea off and on, but it improved long enough for me to eat a little something! Then I decided to take a shower and see if that would help! It helped alleviate the contraction discomfort for a little bit, but by the time I got out of the shower and hit the recliner again.
Now, I'm back to the recliner and the contractions are rotating between my back and my abdomen. My abdomen isn't getting tight with each one, so I will remain hanging out until they are every 5 min apart and I have to breath through them! I just keep praying that it is next week or the week after...in O'Neill!
Friday, November 27, 2009
Amazing Husband!!
I know for many of you, hearing me sing his praises doesn't happen too often! I do a lot of complaining, but I thought it was about time I sing his praises, because after this week, he TOTALLY deserves it!
Today, Cindy, Jason's mom, took the boys to the Omaha Children's Museum and left Jason and I to the house by ourselves. In a way to help not only me and his mother, he cleaned the kitchen floor and entry way and emptied her dishwasher.
After that, he did 3, if not 4 loads of laundry, folded them and put them away. He did get a break for the Husker game and then he made tater tot casserole and chocolate milk shakes for 3 little boys, a pregnant wife, his sister and mother!
He did all of this while rubbing my feet and back when asked and not complaining. I'm not sure who this man is...but I am falling madly in love with him and hope he sticks around!
Even if it takes 3 more children to get him completely trained...I will greatly consider it! Okay...probably not!!
Today, Cindy, Jason's mom, took the boys to the Omaha Children's Museum and left Jason and I to the house by ourselves. In a way to help not only me and his mother, he cleaned the kitchen floor and entry way and emptied her dishwasher.
After that, he did 3, if not 4 loads of laundry, folded them and put them away. He did get a break for the Husker game and then he made tater tot casserole and chocolate milk shakes for 3 little boys, a pregnant wife, his sister and mother!
He did all of this while rubbing my feet and back when asked and not complaining. I'm not sure who this man is...but I am falling madly in love with him and hope he sticks around!
Even if it takes 3 more children to get him completely trained...I will greatly consider it! Okay...probably not!!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Amnio Clarification
I realized last night in my hours of insomniac uncomfortable-ness, I had stated that Chris' amniocentesis came back immature, but didn't explain what Doc had said about it!
After the results came back immature and I was still contracting, I laid there and cried and cried and cried. I was so scared that if the contractions continued, I would have a baby that wasn't ready to be born and would end up on the vent!
It wasn't until the next morning when Doc explained that just because his lungs are immature, does not necessarily mean that he would be on a vent! He said that all he may need is a little oxygen.
Talk about calming a mother's nerves!!!
After the results came back immature and I was still contracting, I laid there and cried and cried and cried. I was so scared that if the contractions continued, I would have a baby that wasn't ready to be born and would end up on the vent!
It wasn't until the next morning when Doc explained that just because his lungs are immature, does not necessarily mean that he would be on a vent! He said that all he may need is a little oxygen.
Talk about calming a mother's nerves!!!
Proud Moment
For the last few weeks we have been drilling Matthewa about his numbers and colors and speech. This last couple weeks Aunt Mariclaire has been working on his alphabet!
Today, he came to me and handed me a piece of paper with his name on it! He had written his own name! No help, no nothing!!! Just an M-a-t-t!
I was so proud of him!!! I still have the paper! What a long ways he has come in a couple of weeks!!!
Today, he came to me and handed me a piece of paper with his name on it! He had written his own name! No help, no nothing!!! Just an M-a-t-t!
I was so proud of him!!! I still have the paper! What a long ways he has come in a couple of weeks!!!
Baking Continues
After a very rough night last night, the day didn't start off much better!
Last night I was uncomfortable and very restless. I was up and down and around and couldn't get come comfortable in bed. Jason rubbed my feet, my hands and my back over and over to get me comfortable, but it wasn't working!
I was up a million times throughout the night to get up and walk around or go to the bathroom. At one point I woke up with a lot of pressure in my rectum and got very nervous, but after walking around, it went away.
I woke up swollen and puffy and cramping something fierce! I just laid in bed and hoped for it to go away. After a little bit things slowed down and I got up and showered and Matthew helped me with my hair and make up! :) All of this to hit the couch in the living room! :)
I just didn't feel right...and obviously I didn't look like it because everyone commented on it!
The Thanksgiving table was brought to me and filled my belly! I began to feel better, but got tired!
The funny thing was that the louder the room got today, the more Chris decided to kick and head-butt me! Luckily nap time came for the kids and Chris settled down!
I still don't feel that awesome, but that's okay! The cramping kind of comes and goes, but that is normal for a pregnant woman on her third baby at 36 weeks. The only difference being I need it to calm down to keep this little one baking since his lungs are ready.
Last night I was uncomfortable and very restless. I was up and down and around and couldn't get come comfortable in bed. Jason rubbed my feet, my hands and my back over and over to get me comfortable, but it wasn't working!
I was up a million times throughout the night to get up and walk around or go to the bathroom. At one point I woke up with a lot of pressure in my rectum and got very nervous, but after walking around, it went away.
I woke up swollen and puffy and cramping something fierce! I just laid in bed and hoped for it to go away. After a little bit things slowed down and I got up and showered and Matthew helped me with my hair and make up! :) All of this to hit the couch in the living room! :)
I just didn't feel right...and obviously I didn't look like it because everyone commented on it!
The Thanksgiving table was brought to me and filled my belly! I began to feel better, but got tired!
The funny thing was that the louder the room got today, the more Chris decided to kick and head-butt me! Luckily nap time came for the kids and Chris settled down!
I still don't feel that awesome, but that's okay! The cramping kind of comes and goes, but that is normal for a pregnant woman on her third baby at 36 weeks. The only difference being I need it to calm down to keep this little one baking since his lungs are ready.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Never...EVER...again!
Holly, our DON at work, is always drilling in to us about how important the care we give our patients will make a lasting impression and makes their stay better! We know this, but we always want to make sure we are doing our best!
Katie, one of my co-workers shared a story of care at a large hospital that she had experienced, but I experienced it for myself in the last 24 hours!
When I first got to Creighton University Hospital last night the girls were very awesome at first to get me hooked up to the monitors and settled in. One of the residents came in and asked questions and said, I'm gonna go look at your stuff and then we will make a plan. 30 min later, a different resident came in and told me that the plan was to monitor me over night and if I "stabalized" I would go home in the morning!
Well...my straight face lasted long enough for the nurse to walk out of the room, but once the door clicked the tears came!
I was so frustrated! No one understood that yes, if my contractions stopped and I was sent home...I was 4 hours...AT LEAST from a NICU that could care for my baby if he needed it! Every nurse and resident kept saying...we are used to delivering babies at 35 and 36 weeks gestation! They weren't getting that although they were comfortable with it...we WEREN'T in O'Neill...which is where they were planning on sending me!
The nurse came back in to finish my admit and I verbally puked on her as to what I was upset about. 20 minutes later, this man in jeans and a pink t-shirt comes watlzing in my room and says...they tell me you want to speak to me...my response was...and you are? He THEN introduces him self as Dr. Basoon or something like that!
I said yes...we were under the impression that we were coming down here to have an amnio so that if Chris' lungs weren't developed we were in the right place to deliver!
His response was...you want an amnio...you can have an amnio...and in 15 min they set up, performed and were out of my room! It was 7:15 p.m.
The last thing the nurse that was supposedly taking care of me did was say something about my
"uterine irritability" that was clearly coming every 2 min and although they weren't mountains, I was feeling everyone of them! She said...oh they aren't that strong!
For those that are not in nursing or OB...the only way you can tell that is if you are feeling the woman's tummy contract or have a monitor inside the uterus that will tell you exactly how strong it is! She then said if I wanted to eat something I had better get it ordered. I was handed the menu with no instructions. I called and left a message at 7:20 p.m. and never did receive a tray.
It wasn't until midnight that the nurse came in my room! With that in mind, I had been to the bathroom twice and had repositioned myself multiple times. I guess I shouldn't say I repositioned myself...Jason was at my side to reposition me and help me to the bathroom! I also had locked my own IV at 10 p.m. because my bag of fluids was dry! I don't know if I was a bad patient or worse nurse to wait and see how long it would take for them to come in and check my IV!
The rest of the night, no one made any attempt to make me comfortable or help me reposition myself!!! Jason did EVERYTHING for me!
The next person to come in my room was at 620 this a.m. and that was the resident to tell me that since I stabalized over night and my cervix hadn't changed, I was going to go home today! I expressed my concerns that again...delivering an immature 36 weeker in O'Neill was COMPETELY different than at CUMC. She kind of blew off my concerns and stated she would talk with Dr. Basoon and let me know!
Now, supposingly my uterus stabalized over night...however, the monitor right under my breast doesn't tell what my uterus is doing...and not checking my cervix does not necessarily mean that it isn't changing it!
After all that, I called home to our OB manager and my primary physician to say...I wasn't happy and this is the plan and am I crazy for being worried! They said no...I wasn't crazy and Doc took the time to explain things further that was able to calm my nerves!
At 8 a.m. a breath of fresh air came in the room. My nurse for the day...Bari! She was the first to assess me beyond baby's heart rate, she was the first to ask how I was feeling, she was the first to tell us what the plan was at the time and she was the first person in 16 hours to offer me a drink of water!!!! The nurse also apologized for our trouble with ordering food too! She then took the time to sit down and talk with me about the plan of care and acknowedged my concerns! I could have kissed this woman!! (Okay, probably not, but I was happy!!!)
Now, after all of this, I'm not saying that as a nurse, we don't get busy with other patients and don't get to each patient the same amount of time, but I know that I check on my patient's more than 3 times a shift!
I have never so badly in the first 3 hours after an admission, wanted to sign out AMA and go somewhere different! I cried and cried and cried. I'm pretty sure that Jason has never seen a woman cry as much as I did yesterday! All I wanted was to get back home to a hospital that I know...knew would take better care of me!
I am also going to say that I know that others have been to this hospital, including family, and had great experiences...but I just couldn't believe that I was 3 hours form home and being treated like this! To them, I was the crazy pregnant crying lady!
I was happy to get out of that hospital! I practically ran!
Katie, one of my co-workers shared a story of care at a large hospital that she had experienced, but I experienced it for myself in the last 24 hours!
When I first got to Creighton University Hospital last night the girls were very awesome at first to get me hooked up to the monitors and settled in. One of the residents came in and asked questions and said, I'm gonna go look at your stuff and then we will make a plan. 30 min later, a different resident came in and told me that the plan was to monitor me over night and if I "stabalized" I would go home in the morning!
Well...my straight face lasted long enough for the nurse to walk out of the room, but once the door clicked the tears came!
I was so frustrated! No one understood that yes, if my contractions stopped and I was sent home...I was 4 hours...AT LEAST from a NICU that could care for my baby if he needed it! Every nurse and resident kept saying...we are used to delivering babies at 35 and 36 weeks gestation! They weren't getting that although they were comfortable with it...we WEREN'T in O'Neill...which is where they were planning on sending me!
The nurse came back in to finish my admit and I verbally puked on her as to what I was upset about. 20 minutes later, this man in jeans and a pink t-shirt comes watlzing in my room and says...they tell me you want to speak to me...my response was...and you are? He THEN introduces him self as Dr. Basoon or something like that!
I said yes...we were under the impression that we were coming down here to have an amnio so that if Chris' lungs weren't developed we were in the right place to deliver!
His response was...you want an amnio...you can have an amnio...and in 15 min they set up, performed and were out of my room! It was 7:15 p.m.
The last thing the nurse that was supposedly taking care of me did was say something about my
"uterine irritability" that was clearly coming every 2 min and although they weren't mountains, I was feeling everyone of them! She said...oh they aren't that strong!
For those that are not in nursing or OB...the only way you can tell that is if you are feeling the woman's tummy contract or have a monitor inside the uterus that will tell you exactly how strong it is! She then said if I wanted to eat something I had better get it ordered. I was handed the menu with no instructions. I called and left a message at 7:20 p.m. and never did receive a tray.
It wasn't until midnight that the nurse came in my room! With that in mind, I had been to the bathroom twice and had repositioned myself multiple times. I guess I shouldn't say I repositioned myself...Jason was at my side to reposition me and help me to the bathroom! I also had locked my own IV at 10 p.m. because my bag of fluids was dry! I don't know if I was a bad patient or worse nurse to wait and see how long it would take for them to come in and check my IV!
The rest of the night, no one made any attempt to make me comfortable or help me reposition myself!!! Jason did EVERYTHING for me!
The next person to come in my room was at 620 this a.m. and that was the resident to tell me that since I stabalized over night and my cervix hadn't changed, I was going to go home today! I expressed my concerns that again...delivering an immature 36 weeker in O'Neill was COMPETELY different than at CUMC. She kind of blew off my concerns and stated she would talk with Dr. Basoon and let me know!
Now, supposingly my uterus stabalized over night...however, the monitor right under my breast doesn't tell what my uterus is doing...and not checking my cervix does not necessarily mean that it isn't changing it!
After all that, I called home to our OB manager and my primary physician to say...I wasn't happy and this is the plan and am I crazy for being worried! They said no...I wasn't crazy and Doc took the time to explain things further that was able to calm my nerves!
At 8 a.m. a breath of fresh air came in the room. My nurse for the day...Bari! She was the first to assess me beyond baby's heart rate, she was the first to ask how I was feeling, she was the first to tell us what the plan was at the time and she was the first person in 16 hours to offer me a drink of water!!!! The nurse also apologized for our trouble with ordering food too! She then took the time to sit down and talk with me about the plan of care and acknowedged my concerns! I could have kissed this woman!! (Okay, probably not, but I was happy!!!)
Now, after all of this, I'm not saying that as a nurse, we don't get busy with other patients and don't get to each patient the same amount of time, but I know that I check on my patient's more than 3 times a shift!
I have never so badly in the first 3 hours after an admission, wanted to sign out AMA and go somewhere different! I cried and cried and cried. I'm pretty sure that Jason has never seen a woman cry as much as I did yesterday! All I wanted was to get back home to a hospital that I know...knew would take better care of me!
I am also going to say that I know that others have been to this hospital, including family, and had great experiences...but I just couldn't believe that I was 3 hours form home and being treated like this! To them, I was the crazy pregnant crying lady!
I was happy to get out of that hospital! I practically ran!
The update you've been waiting for...
Oh my! As most of you know...the last 24 hours has been a HUGE whirlwind!
When Doc came in yesterday morning, he said that he wanted to consult with Dr. Albin in Norfolk about our situation, with the possibility of being transferred. So Jason and I said that because of family in Omaha we would prefer to be transferred to Omaha so that the boys could come down with us. Doc obliged and he said that he would have to talk to Fleming first!
Later we were told that we had 2 options. We could either try a terbutaline pump for the next few days or else go to Omaha where an amniocentesis would be done to check for lung maturity.
We do amnios at the hospital in O'Neill, but there is a risk of sending the mom into labor and Doc was worried taht because my uterus was already ticked off, we shouldn't chance it in O'Neill just in case Chris' lungs weren't developed!
Jason and I talked and decided that Omaha would be the best option we felt, since we had already tried the last option of meds in O'Neill and I was still contracting through them! This way, we would already be in the right place should I deliver.
The boys came up to say good-bye! Andrew was more worried about lunch and Matthew was just like...bye mom! It wasn't until later when he couldn't have his Mom, that he was upset!
We left O'Neill...in an amublance at 12:45 and after the WORST ambulance ride of my LIFE...we arrived at the hospital and I was nervous as what would happen! I got taken off all my meds, hooked up to the monitor and had an amniocentesis done which later showed that his lungs were immature!
By this time, I had a thousand questions that weren't getting answered! I am known for my "what ifs!" Their plan was that if I stabalized over night that they would send me home and just let me deliver when I got into labor!
This morning continued the frustration and worry until I spoke with my Doc...from HOME! he answered my questions that they wouldn't answer and we made the decision...which Jason and I had already set in place...to stay in Omaha at his parents until Monday, that way if something happened we were still in a "safe" zone!
I was released from the hospital this morning...I almost RAN out...and we are now sitting at my mother-in-law's who is waiting on me hand and foot!
Jason is getting ready to leave in a bit to go meet Mariclaire and Bob in Wisner to hand off two little boys that I can not WAIT to hug and snuggle! In my world, they are not going to get here soon enough!
Jason and I are doing good...horribly sleep deprived and my toes look like little smokies...but happy to be out of that hospital!
When Doc came in yesterday morning, he said that he wanted to consult with Dr. Albin in Norfolk about our situation, with the possibility of being transferred. So Jason and I said that because of family in Omaha we would prefer to be transferred to Omaha so that the boys could come down with us. Doc obliged and he said that he would have to talk to Fleming first!
Later we were told that we had 2 options. We could either try a terbutaline pump for the next few days or else go to Omaha where an amniocentesis would be done to check for lung maturity.
We do amnios at the hospital in O'Neill, but there is a risk of sending the mom into labor and Doc was worried taht because my uterus was already ticked off, we shouldn't chance it in O'Neill just in case Chris' lungs weren't developed!
Jason and I talked and decided that Omaha would be the best option we felt, since we had already tried the last option of meds in O'Neill and I was still contracting through them! This way, we would already be in the right place should I deliver.
The boys came up to say good-bye! Andrew was more worried about lunch and Matthew was just like...bye mom! It wasn't until later when he couldn't have his Mom, that he was upset!
We left O'Neill...in an amublance at 12:45 and after the WORST ambulance ride of my LIFE...we arrived at the hospital and I was nervous as what would happen! I got taken off all my meds, hooked up to the monitor and had an amniocentesis done which later showed that his lungs were immature!
By this time, I had a thousand questions that weren't getting answered! I am known for my "what ifs!" Their plan was that if I stabalized over night that they would send me home and just let me deliver when I got into labor!
This morning continued the frustration and worry until I spoke with my Doc...from HOME! he answered my questions that they wouldn't answer and we made the decision...which Jason and I had already set in place...to stay in Omaha at his parents until Monday, that way if something happened we were still in a "safe" zone!
I was released from the hospital this morning...I almost RAN out...and we are now sitting at my mother-in-law's who is waiting on me hand and foot!
Jason is getting ready to leave in a bit to go meet Mariclaire and Bob in Wisner to hand off two little boys that I can not WAIT to hug and snuggle! In my world, they are not going to get here soon enough!
Jason and I are doing good...horribly sleep deprived and my toes look like little smokies...but happy to be out of that hospital!
Monday, November 23, 2009
Minor Meltdown
After 6.5 hours of contracting, having to breath through some of them, I wanted to shut the drugs off and let my body do what it is going to do...either go into labor...or tease me for 2 weeks! Knowing my history...I bet it is tease me for 2 weeks!
Doc came in and said, yep, good contractions, let's give her a mag bolus and see what that does...which by the way, other than making me feel like crap...I'm not sure what it did!
My question to him was...I know what we are trying to do, but how many more meds are we gonna dump into my body before we call it good!
My other thought is...if I am contracting through the mag...which is what we get put on when the oral meds don't work...why are we so sure that when we shut off the mag the orals are gonna work!
I felt like a moron because here I am frustrated, crying not only in front of my co-workers, but also the Doc. I didn't want him to think I was second guessing him, I am just a frustrated pregnant woman! Which of course he would TOTALLY understand if he had ever been one! :)
Now the bolus is in, everyone has checked on the crying prego co-worker and I'm still contracting...it has just changed to a sharp piercing pain above my pubic bone! Yay me!!!
Doc came in and said, yep, good contractions, let's give her a mag bolus and see what that does...which by the way, other than making me feel like crap...I'm not sure what it did!
My question to him was...I know what we are trying to do, but how many more meds are we gonna dump into my body before we call it good!
My other thought is...if I am contracting through the mag...which is what we get put on when the oral meds don't work...why are we so sure that when we shut off the mag the orals are gonna work!
I felt like a moron because here I am frustrated, crying not only in front of my co-workers, but also the Doc. I didn't want him to think I was second guessing him, I am just a frustrated pregnant woman! Which of course he would TOTALLY understand if he had ever been one! :)
Now the bolus is in, everyone has checked on the crying prego co-worker and I'm still contracting...it has just changed to a sharp piercing pain above my pubic bone! Yay me!!!
Labor Update
Let me begin by saying that Doc is always commenting on how my explanations are always awesome! :)
Around 2:30 this afternoon, I started to tell my awesome nurse Jeri...hehe...that something was changing, but I just didn't know what. Luckily, she didn't send me off to the regional center and listened to me, because not too much later, I started to contract again pretty regularly!
Doc came in and said that he had plans to turn down my mag, but I lost that! :) He said that we will look at shutting the mag off in the a.m. and then try brethine or procardia and see what happens! If I breakthrough, then obviously someone has a bigger plan...as if that hasn't been proven to me yet! HAHA!
Aunt Mariclaire picked up the boys from the house and took them out to their place! This allowed Jason and I to have our most expensive date EVER! The food was cheap (Fox's chicken), but the room rental was quite expensive (my hospital room...for those who are slow-er)!
The boys were able to come up and see mom for a little bit. I'm not sure if they were excited to see mom or mom's hospital room! They ended up laying on the feet of the bed watching TV while we listened to Christopher's heartbeat!
I sent the boys home with their dad and we will see what the night brings as the contractions continue!
SIDENOTE: We are so lucky in our town to have an amazing facility and an awesome bunch of nurses to take care of our loved ones and people from our communities. I'm not just saying that because I work there! HEHE!
Around 2:30 this afternoon, I started to tell my awesome nurse Jeri...hehe...that something was changing, but I just didn't know what. Luckily, she didn't send me off to the regional center and listened to me, because not too much later, I started to contract again pretty regularly!
Doc came in and said that he had plans to turn down my mag, but I lost that! :) He said that we will look at shutting the mag off in the a.m. and then try brethine or procardia and see what happens! If I breakthrough, then obviously someone has a bigger plan...as if that hasn't been proven to me yet! HAHA!
Aunt Mariclaire picked up the boys from the house and took them out to their place! This allowed Jason and I to have our most expensive date EVER! The food was cheap (Fox's chicken), but the room rental was quite expensive (my hospital room...for those who are slow-er)!
The boys were able to come up and see mom for a little bit. I'm not sure if they were excited to see mom or mom's hospital room! They ended up laying on the feet of the bed watching TV while we listened to Christopher's heartbeat!
I sent the boys home with their dad and we will see what the night brings as the contractions continue!
SIDENOTE: We are so lucky in our town to have an amazing facility and an awesome bunch of nurses to take care of our loved ones and people from our communities. I'm not just saying that because I work there! HEHE!
Bring on the Mag!
Well...what an eventful last 24 hours! Since I've wrote my last blog, many things have happened.
I took my meds at 2 and although they slowed briefly, they didn't stop! I called Candy to report in and she called Doc and well...I was told to pack my bags and get my butt to the hospital!
After packing my bag and Christopher's...just in case...I headed to my parent's, where the boys had been all afternoon! I told the boys good bye and explained as to what was going on. Andrew clung to my coat and didn't want to let go! Matt shared some story about scaring Grandma and could have cared less!
Once up here, Doc showed up and we discussed having to have a c-section, since he was breech vs. doing mag sulfate for 24 hours and then seeing what happened.
I was so over whelmed! My head was swimming with "what ifs" and what would be best. I knew what would be best medically for him, but I couldn't help but think that all of that affected 2 other little boys too!
Doc made the choice to do the mag and then ordered an ultrasound to check placement! Much to both of our amazements...he had flipped!! YAY!! I felt a load go off me right there! Part of the thing holding me back and scared was that should I have a c-section and he had to be shipped somewhere...I was stuck!
I got started on the mag and the bolus sucked!! I wouldn't recommend signing up for it for the fun of it! It got better after the bolus was over, but the contractions didn't stop until around 1 a.m.! By that time I was frustrated and getting annoyed, wondering if the medicine would even work!
When Doc got here this morning he said the plan is to stay on the mag until tomorrow morning, then to stop the mag and start back on my oral medicines. Then, depending on how that goes, possibly, get to go home tomorrow evening.
The downside to all this, I am off work until after the baby gets here and I am on my butt for the next couple weeks! Doc thought it would be better to error on the side of time than to chance, by letting the contractions go!
Luckily...Jason is home until Sunday evening and then my mother-in-law is coming up to stay with us on Monday for the week possibly!
We shall see! I just keep reminding myself that he has some amazing guardian angels and that it will work out the way it is supposed to!
I took my meds at 2 and although they slowed briefly, they didn't stop! I called Candy to report in and she called Doc and well...I was told to pack my bags and get my butt to the hospital!
After packing my bag and Christopher's...just in case...I headed to my parent's, where the boys had been all afternoon! I told the boys good bye and explained as to what was going on. Andrew clung to my coat and didn't want to let go! Matt shared some story about scaring Grandma and could have cared less!
Once up here, Doc showed up and we discussed having to have a c-section, since he was breech vs. doing mag sulfate for 24 hours and then seeing what happened.
I was so over whelmed! My head was swimming with "what ifs" and what would be best. I knew what would be best medically for him, but I couldn't help but think that all of that affected 2 other little boys too!
Doc made the choice to do the mag and then ordered an ultrasound to check placement! Much to both of our amazements...he had flipped!! YAY!! I felt a load go off me right there! Part of the thing holding me back and scared was that should I have a c-section and he had to be shipped somewhere...I was stuck!
I got started on the mag and the bolus sucked!! I wouldn't recommend signing up for it for the fun of it! It got better after the bolus was over, but the contractions didn't stop until around 1 a.m.! By that time I was frustrated and getting annoyed, wondering if the medicine would even work!
When Doc got here this morning he said the plan is to stay on the mag until tomorrow morning, then to stop the mag and start back on my oral medicines. Then, depending on how that goes, possibly, get to go home tomorrow evening.
The downside to all this, I am off work until after the baby gets here and I am on my butt for the next couple weeks! Doc thought it would be better to error on the side of time than to chance, by letting the contractions go!
Luckily...Jason is home until Sunday evening and then my mother-in-law is coming up to stay with us on Monday for the week possibly!
We shall see! I just keep reminding myself that he has some amazing guardian angels and that it will work out the way it is supposed to!
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Contractions!
Well, Jason and I have mentioned off and on how weird it would be if Christopher showed up on the anniversary of Chris' accident! We didn't think much of it until this morning! Chris and Beth will have been gone for 13 years next Sunday!
Last night around 7:30 I started contracting and continually got worse until I passed out from my vistaril! I work up around 2:30 a.m. and took another vistaril and pased out again for another 4 hours!
Andrew and I got up and headed to Mom and Dad's for breakfast and nothing slowed down so I head up to the hospital to get checked out finally! Once hooked up, I was contracting every 1-3 min and felt all of them!
I got a liter of fluid and and sent home to see if my meds would stop the labor!! I've taken 50 more of vistaril and another procardia and am still feeling the contractions.
Doc said that if we can't get things slowed down or stopped, then he will just let me go and get to meet this little man finally! If nothing happens we see Doc in the a.m.!
Jason is on his way home and hopefully everything will work out! Before I left mom and dad's Matthew came up to my belly and goes...be good Christopherer...I just have this feeling that I'm going to be saying this a lot with this child! HAHA!
Knowing my luck however, he will try to come this week and then nothing will happen so I will be induced! HAHA!
Last night around 7:30 I started contracting and continually got worse until I passed out from my vistaril! I work up around 2:30 a.m. and took another vistaril and pased out again for another 4 hours!
Andrew and I got up and headed to Mom and Dad's for breakfast and nothing slowed down so I head up to the hospital to get checked out finally! Once hooked up, I was contracting every 1-3 min and felt all of them!
I got a liter of fluid and and sent home to see if my meds would stop the labor!! I've taken 50 more of vistaril and another procardia and am still feeling the contractions.
Doc said that if we can't get things slowed down or stopped, then he will just let me go and get to meet this little man finally! If nothing happens we see Doc in the a.m.!
Jason is on his way home and hopefully everything will work out! Before I left mom and dad's Matthew came up to my belly and goes...be good Christopherer...I just have this feeling that I'm going to be saying this a lot with this child! HAHA!
Knowing my luck however, he will try to come this week and then nothing will happen so I will be induced! HAHA!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Check up!
Had the 34 week check up this morning! Went with my list of questions and prepared to get a lecture! I knew my urine hadn't been looking too pretty the last 24 hours minus my avid goal of drinking liters of fluid! By the end of the day my ankles are great examples of how much I drink!
Anyway, he is still measuring 2 weeks bigger which translates to the fact that he is going to be a big boy! Doc says to plan on a 9 lb baby and my response every time is that I am not worried about the 9 lbs. It's the 35 cm head from the last ultrasound that has me contemplating a c-section! :)
His heartbeat was great and he didn't want to be listened to at all! My ribs are now paying for it!
We will probably have another ultrasound in the next couple of weeks to verify position and to check the fluid level! I lost a lot of fluid with Matthew and that concerns me for this little man!
I asked him about the last possible day and it looks like to plan on nothing before Dec. 16 or 17 if I make it til then! If I try to go before 39 weeks by induction then I have to have an amniocentesis and yeah...don't care to sign up for that voluntarily!
So we will see...another week down and another good check up! If nothing else...4.5 weeks to go!
Anyway, he is still measuring 2 weeks bigger which translates to the fact that he is going to be a big boy! Doc says to plan on a 9 lb baby and my response every time is that I am not worried about the 9 lbs. It's the 35 cm head from the last ultrasound that has me contemplating a c-section! :)
His heartbeat was great and he didn't want to be listened to at all! My ribs are now paying for it!
We will probably have another ultrasound in the next couple of weeks to verify position and to check the fluid level! I lost a lot of fluid with Matthew and that concerns me for this little man!
I asked him about the last possible day and it looks like to plan on nothing before Dec. 16 or 17 if I make it til then! If I try to go before 39 weeks by induction then I have to have an amniocentesis and yeah...don't care to sign up for that voluntarily!
So we will see...another week down and another good check up! If nothing else...4.5 weeks to go!
Fire Drill
I was picking up Matthew at pre-school and speech this morning and as I hit the door they were having a fire drill! Next thing I know, Matt comings flying by me at top speed with his ears covered! He was out the door in no time flat!
It took me yelling his name three times and finally using his middle name to get him to stop halfway down the steps of the front entrance! At that point he grabs my hand and starts to pull me along!
When they finally gave the all clear he wouldn't go back in to get his coat and book bag! He just stood at the bottom of the steps to the school entrance and fought me to go inside!
Due to some post traumatic stress syndrome that will ensue, I'm sure we can cross fire fighter off the future job list! HAHA!
It took me yelling his name three times and finally using his middle name to get him to stop halfway down the steps of the front entrance! At that point he grabs my hand and starts to pull me along!
When they finally gave the all clear he wouldn't go back in to get his coat and book bag! He just stood at the bottom of the steps to the school entrance and fought me to go inside!
Due to some post traumatic stress syndrome that will ensue, I'm sure we can cross fire fighter off the future job list! HAHA!
Water too please!
It was priceless the other day! I was loading up all my pills in my purse to take with me to the wedding. Matthew asked me why I was putting them in my purse and my response was because the doctor wanted me to take them.
His response..."Mom, you need water! The doctor wants you to drink water too!"
Darn the kid! Everyone is on me about drinking enough water! HAHA!
His response..."Mom, you need water! The doctor wants you to drink water too!"
Darn the kid! Everyone is on me about drinking enough water! HAHA!
And he's off!
I started Matthew in preschool today! Just 2 days a week and for only 2 hours, so it won't be that bad...for mom! :)
He jumped right out of bed and wanted cereal for breakfast, which let me know that I will have to get up earlier! (I allotted time for toast!) He got ready and even smiled for "First day of school" pictures.
While he was eating his cereal he just laid his head on my belly and goes...Mommy, I will miss Christopher-er!
He walked into school so solemn. Brenda, the office gal, even commented on how serious he was. Jack, a kid that went with him to the sitter is in his class and so when I pointed out that it was Jack then he perked up a bit and started to open up when he hit the classroom!
Ironically enough, his teacher is a high school classmate of mine and has sat in with us on his IEP meetings so kind of knows Matt's history!
Big brother was beaming from ear to ear, just as proud as Mom I think! When they got out of the suburban Andrew goes to Matthew..."Now Matthew, I have to go to the playground, but you'll be okay! I'm right across the hall!" Matt was just like...whatever Drew! He could have cared less! :) HAHA!
It was so cute this a.m. because they both had to have their hair all combed before I could take pictures! Both of my boys are in school! They are growing up so fast!
He jumped right out of bed and wanted cereal for breakfast, which let me know that I will have to get up earlier! (I allotted time for toast!) He got ready and even smiled for "First day of school" pictures.
While he was eating his cereal he just laid his head on my belly and goes...Mommy, I will miss Christopher-er!
He walked into school so solemn. Brenda, the office gal, even commented on how serious he was. Jack, a kid that went with him to the sitter is in his class and so when I pointed out that it was Jack then he perked up a bit and started to open up when he hit the classroom!
Ironically enough, his teacher is a high school classmate of mine and has sat in with us on his IEP meetings so kind of knows Matt's history!
Big brother was beaming from ear to ear, just as proud as Mom I think! When they got out of the suburban Andrew goes to Matthew..."Now Matthew, I have to go to the playground, but you'll be okay! I'm right across the hall!" Matt was just like...whatever Drew! He could have cared less! :) HAHA!
It was so cute this a.m. because they both had to have their hair all combed before I could take pictures! Both of my boys are in school! They are growing up so fast!
Sunday, November 08, 2009
Kangaroo Care
Yesterday was not a good day for Matthew and his asthma! He does good throughout the rest of the year, but this time of year is hard on him. The days/nights where the temperature fluctuates so much just doesn't treat him very nice!
With that said, Matt was asthma attacking on me yesterday while we were at Lucia's wedding. When we got home we did 2 more breathing treatments and then took some Motrin.
When we went to bed, Matthew fell asleep on me and his brething was awesome. Gentle and slow and no wheezing! I thought to myself...yes! Kangaroo care works when they are big too! I was so pumped until I rolled him over to sleep! That's when the hacking and coughing started! GRR!!
I flipped it back over to his stomach and it got better, but was a lot more than when he was sleeping on my chest!
He woke up and is back to his Matt self. He just has a little bit of a hacky cough, but that is normal for him right after his attacks!
With that said, Matt was asthma attacking on me yesterday while we were at Lucia's wedding. When we got home we did 2 more breathing treatments and then took some Motrin.
When we went to bed, Matthew fell asleep on me and his brething was awesome. Gentle and slow and no wheezing! I thought to myself...yes! Kangaroo care works when they are big too! I was so pumped until I rolled him over to sleep! That's when the hacking and coughing started! GRR!!
I flipped it back over to his stomach and it got better, but was a lot more than when he was sleeping on my chest!
He woke up and is back to his Matt self. He just has a little bit of a hacky cough, but that is normal for him right after his attacks!
Go Huskers!
Last night I let the boys stay up and watch the Husker game! Praise the Lord for another win! HAHA! I also learned in that time that Mom doesn't know much about football, her her simple explanations satisfied them for now!
After Matt fell asleep Andrew and I had some awesome bonding time! There was a commercial on TV about the end of time and all of these natural disasters. Andrew asked about the "big waves" aka..tsunamis. He asked how we would be affected in Nebraska! I told him I was not completely sure and that we would have to look it up, but to take peace in knowing that we were living in the middle of the United States!!
After covering that topic, I asked him how school was going and he goes...ehh okay! I said, what don't you like about it and his response was P.E., and recess and a third thing I can't remember! I at first thought that it was an unusual comment for a kindergartener so then I asked, what do you like and his reply was, "Math, it makes me smart!" I said well so does reading and he said that he likes that class too, along with music! Yep, he's my child!! :)
He's just growing up so fast in front of me! He's really growing by leaps and bounds!
After Matt fell asleep Andrew and I had some awesome bonding time! There was a commercial on TV about the end of time and all of these natural disasters. Andrew asked about the "big waves" aka..tsunamis. He asked how we would be affected in Nebraska! I told him I was not completely sure and that we would have to look it up, but to take peace in knowing that we were living in the middle of the United States!!
After covering that topic, I asked him how school was going and he goes...ehh okay! I said, what don't you like about it and his response was P.E., and recess and a third thing I can't remember! I at first thought that it was an unusual comment for a kindergartener so then I asked, what do you like and his reply was, "Math, it makes me smart!" I said well so does reading and he said that he likes that class too, along with music! Yep, he's my child!! :)
He's just growing up so fast in front of me! He's really growing by leaps and bounds!
Saturday, November 07, 2009
Rosary
As a gift for those attending Darin and Lucia's wedding, each place had a rosary at it. I was trying to explain that it was used for a prayer and that is what Great-Grandma Shoemaker used to pray multiple times a day! They obviously were lost!
Later in the reception, we were looking at the cake and there was a Rosary elegantly placed around the cake!
Matt's response..."So that's what they're for!"
I hope Great-Grandma got a good chuckle out of that one!
Later in the reception, we were looking at the cake and there was a Rosary elegantly placed around the cake!
Matt's response..."So that's what they're for!"
I hope Great-Grandma got a good chuckle out of that one!
Thursday, November 05, 2009
Hewo, Christopher-er
From the time I picked Matthew up from the sitter until...well he hasn't stopped, he has been yelling at my belly like he missed us or something!
He is just a little off on the name though!
"Hewo, Christopher-er!"
He can't pronounce his "l"s which for those that are wondering that is a 6 year old language skill! However, not sure why Chris has an extra "er" on the end of his name!
He is just a little off on the name though!
"Hewo, Christopher-er!"
He can't pronounce his "l"s which for those that are wondering that is a 6 year old language skill! However, not sure why Chris has an extra "er" on the end of his name!
And now...the stomach flu!
Tuesday night I didn't sleep well at all! I just didn't feel "right." It continued when I got up in the morning when I started contracting around 8:10 in the morning every 4 min. I had just taken my procardia (medicine to stop contractions) so I just held off for awhile! Plus, I didn't have anywhere to go with Matthew so I couldn't take my vistaril!
They subsided, but then in the afternoon I started having nasty diarrhea symptoms and vomiting that was onset immediately! My face was flushed and didn't feel so good! I called the Doc right away and he told me to meet him at the hospital!
In 4 short hours I had dehydrated so that got me a ticket to stay over night! I ended up getting 4 liters of fluid and a little boy in my belly that knew he was just with Mommy and no big brothers around! He was so active! I did have quite a few contractions so that got me an increased dose in medication to help with contractions!
Mariclaire came up and sat with me for awhile which was a lot of fun! The boys got a night at Grandma and Grandpa Shoe's and it sounded like they had a blast!
Doc just said that this was the worst year to be pregnant because there are so many viruses out and about and my worn down system is going to catch them easier! His comment was that he had no problem putting me in isolation in the hospital for the next 3 weeks!! I said that I had a problem with that!
Instead, I'm just gonna try to hang out at home as much as possible! I still get to go to work...thank the lord!!!
They subsided, but then in the afternoon I started having nasty diarrhea symptoms and vomiting that was onset immediately! My face was flushed and didn't feel so good! I called the Doc right away and he told me to meet him at the hospital!
In 4 short hours I had dehydrated so that got me a ticket to stay over night! I ended up getting 4 liters of fluid and a little boy in my belly that knew he was just with Mommy and no big brothers around! He was so active! I did have quite a few contractions so that got me an increased dose in medication to help with contractions!
Mariclaire came up and sat with me for awhile which was a lot of fun! The boys got a night at Grandma and Grandpa Shoe's and it sounded like they had a blast!
Doc just said that this was the worst year to be pregnant because there are so many viruses out and about and my worn down system is going to catch them easier! His comment was that he had no problem putting me in isolation in the hospital for the next 3 weeks!! I said that I had a problem with that!
Instead, I'm just gonna try to hang out at home as much as possible! I still get to go to work...thank the lord!!!
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Jumping Bean
The other night, after I came from home from work, I wasn't feeling the hottest so I came home and crawled straight in bed! Matthew eventually crawled in bed with me to "take care of me."
In the mean time, Chris started jumping around like a mad man and I told Matthew to watch my belly!
Matt asked why my belly was doing that and so I said...don't know you tell me!
His response..."You have a jumper in your belly!"
In the mean time, Chris started jumping around like a mad man and I told Matthew to watch my belly!
Matt asked why my belly was doing that and so I said...don't know you tell me!
His response..."You have a jumper in your belly!"
Little Man #3 Update
Had an appointment yesterday with Doc for a follow up! The infection has cleared up and babe is doing great! I have to stay on my medicine for 3 more weeks until after 36 weeks just to ward off evil spirits! With that said, we could be meeting this little man in as few as 3 weeks!
I am a realist however and am planning on week 39! Doc said that if we don't have anything happen by the 39th week we will encourage somethign a long that week! Trust me...we will be encouraging things along WAY before that! HAHA! So we shall see!
Today he has decided to assist my diaphragm! Although, I'm not sure if it is assisting or hindering! HAHA! Needless to say I'm laying down so I can breath appropriately!
I am a realist however and am planning on week 39! Doc said that if we don't have anything happen by the 39th week we will encourage somethign a long that week! Trust me...we will be encouraging things along WAY before that! HAHA! So we shall see!
Today he has decided to assist my diaphragm! Although, I'm not sure if it is assisting or hindering! HAHA! Needless to say I'm laying down so I can breath appropriately!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Update
I get to stay in the hospital tonight. Doc is pretty sure that it is a nasty bladder infection and it has gotten the best of me! Doc decided to keep me thinking that a couple more doses of IV antibiotics wouldn't hurt! I didn't want to go through what I did this morning again, so I was all for it!
Christopher looks awesome and has been kicking me all day long!
Jason is at home with the boys and I hope that Drew makes it to school on time! He didn't want to leave my side tonight, but was SO tired!
Christopher looks awesome and has been kicking me all day long!
Jason is at home with the boys and I hope that Drew makes it to school on time! He didn't want to leave my side tonight, but was SO tired!
Another Scare! SERIOUSLY!
I woke up this morning with horrible pressure and pain where pain and pressure shouldn't be these days. After trying to doctor it myself for 2 hours and just putting up with it, I followed the advice of Amanda, Kerkman and Jolene and called the doc!
I got a free trip to the hospital! Once here they hooked me up to the monitor and he looks great! We also did a biophysical profile and that looked great as well. He is still a big boy! The rest of his body looks good, but his head is starting to make me nervous!! I should have known though, both of the boys had big noggins!
I had quite a bit of blood in my UA and therefore doc is wondering if I have an infection going on that is upsetting my body! So I have had 2 doses of IV antibiotics and working on dumping another bag of fluid in me! We will see what doc says when he comes after clinic!
I got a free trip to the hospital! Once here they hooked me up to the monitor and he looks great! We also did a biophysical profile and that looked great as well. He is still a big boy! The rest of his body looks good, but his head is starting to make me nervous!! I should have known though, both of the boys had big noggins!
I had quite a bit of blood in my UA and therefore doc is wondering if I have an infection going on that is upsetting my body! So I have had 2 doses of IV antibiotics and working on dumping another bag of fluid in me! We will see what doc says when he comes after clinic!
Mr. Christopher
For those who have been waiting to here...aka Anne Tucker! I thought I would share the little man in my bellys name!
After many weeks of threatening Jason that this child would have severe issues if we named him Johnathan Wayne, we settled on Christopher Wayne! This being after two amazing people! Unfortunately, Jason and I haven't met either member from the opposite family!
I'm sure most of you know that Christopher comes from my cousin Chris Vandersnick who was killed in a car accident along side his wife in 1996. He was like a big brother to me and one of the most amazing people I have ever had the chance to meet! He was notorious for joking around was very competitive! One of my last memories with Chris was a very intense croquet game which Chris attempted to win by cheating, but still ended up losing!
Wayne comes from Jason's grandfather who passed away in 1997 or 1998! (Jason can't remember! HAHA!) Jason and Grandpa Glover were very close and he misses him very much all these years later! I think Jason even may slightly blame his Grandpa for the Iowa State win last weekend! Grandpa Glover was an avid Iowa State fan!! He loved to fish (so did Chris)!
To add too it, being born around Christmas I wanted to go with the "Chris" theme and it helps that my great-grandpa was Christian and my dad had a brother Christopher.
We also decided to add another God parent for this little man. His god father will be my best friend, Matt and will have have 2 god mothers, one being his Aunt Jairren and the other being Chris' daughter, Emily. She was excited when I called her last night! Jason has yet to call Jairren...so by the way Jairren when you read this...SURPRISE!
Only 7 more weeks until we get to meet this little man!
After many weeks of threatening Jason that this child would have severe issues if we named him Johnathan Wayne, we settled on Christopher Wayne! This being after two amazing people! Unfortunately, Jason and I haven't met either member from the opposite family!
I'm sure most of you know that Christopher comes from my cousin Chris Vandersnick who was killed in a car accident along side his wife in 1996. He was like a big brother to me and one of the most amazing people I have ever had the chance to meet! He was notorious for joking around was very competitive! One of my last memories with Chris was a very intense croquet game which Chris attempted to win by cheating, but still ended up losing!
Wayne comes from Jason's grandfather who passed away in 1997 or 1998! (Jason can't remember! HAHA!) Jason and Grandpa Glover were very close and he misses him very much all these years later! I think Jason even may slightly blame his Grandpa for the Iowa State win last weekend! Grandpa Glover was an avid Iowa State fan!! He loved to fish (so did Chris)!
To add too it, being born around Christmas I wanted to go with the "Chris" theme and it helps that my great-grandpa was Christian and my dad had a brother Christopher.
We also decided to add another God parent for this little man. His god father will be my best friend, Matt and will have have 2 god mothers, one being his Aunt Jairren and the other being Chris' daughter, Emily. She was excited when I called her last night! Jason has yet to call Jairren...so by the way Jairren when you read this...SURPRISE!
Only 7 more weeks until we get to meet this little man!
Monday, October 26, 2009
Scare
With 7 weeks to go and me hoping I was about out of the woods with the problems that I had with Matthew, I began having a few contractions last Thursday!
With Matthew's pregnancy I would have contractions for 2-3 hours at a time and that was with meds on board. These are just a couple here then a couple a few hours later and maybe one or two that get my attention!
I wasn't worried about it and wasn't going to go into the clinic early until I had a nightmare last night that I had lost this little man. The freakier thing is that Jason had a similar dream last Thursday!
I went in to the clinic and doc decides to check things out just in case. His non-stress test was awesome! Doc was even surprised at how reactive he was for only being 32 weeks! I would be more impressed if the kid could produce a non-reactive strip! He never settles down! :) I guess he settles down when the boys try to feel him moving! HAHA!
The scary part was that they checked my cervix and I was already dilating! Doc reassured me that this was normal for a mom that already had a couple of kiddos, but it still worried me because it took me forever to dilate with both of the boys!
He thinks that there could be some type of infection that is upsetting and irritating my cervix. I got a round of antibiotics and another visit for Thursday! :)
So we will see! I'm not planted on the couch yet! And my goal is to not be! I would only have 4 more weeks to be on bedrest anyway!
With Matthew's pregnancy I would have contractions for 2-3 hours at a time and that was with meds on board. These are just a couple here then a couple a few hours later and maybe one or two that get my attention!
I wasn't worried about it and wasn't going to go into the clinic early until I had a nightmare last night that I had lost this little man. The freakier thing is that Jason had a similar dream last Thursday!
I went in to the clinic and doc decides to check things out just in case. His non-stress test was awesome! Doc was even surprised at how reactive he was for only being 32 weeks! I would be more impressed if the kid could produce a non-reactive strip! He never settles down! :) I guess he settles down when the boys try to feel him moving! HAHA!
The scary part was that they checked my cervix and I was already dilating! Doc reassured me that this was normal for a mom that already had a couple of kiddos, but it still worried me because it took me forever to dilate with both of the boys!
He thinks that there could be some type of infection that is upsetting and irritating my cervix. I got a round of antibiotics and another visit for Thursday! :)
So we will see! I'm not planted on the couch yet! And my goal is to not be! I would only have 4 more weeks to be on bedrest anyway!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Matthew in his Prime
Matthew and I snuggled last night and he was in his prime mode!! I jotted down some of the funny things he was saying!
Matt: "How you feel Mom?"
Mom: "Good! How do you feel, Matt?"
Matt: "Perfect!"
Matt: "My tummy hurt."
Mom: "Is the jell-o helping?"
Matt: "Right here it do. Right here it do not!"
A little later.
Matt: "Now, over here feel good too!"
He handed me a play cell phone and goes..."Somebody text you a message, Mom!"
What a character!!!
Matt: "How you feel Mom?"
Mom: "Good! How do you feel, Matt?"
Matt: "Perfect!"
Matt: "My tummy hurt."
Mom: "Is the jell-o helping?"
Matt: "Right here it do. Right here it do not!"
A little later.
Matt: "Now, over here feel good too!"
He handed me a play cell phone and goes..."Somebody text you a message, Mom!"
What a character!!!
Influenza day 3!
Andrew's fever broke last night around 7 or so! He was immediately feeling better!
He broke my heart however, when he wanted to snuggle with me and I made him sleep in his own bed. I tried to explain to him that we couldn't run the risks of getting Mommy and the baby sick! He didn't understand! He just knew that he was starting to feel better and he wanted to snuggle with Mom!
This morning he slept in late...like 10:15...and when he woke up he was feeling a LOT better! He is back to his self and is running around the house, playing with Matthew! He would still rather eat applesauce versus real food, but I'm okay with that!
He broke my heart however, when he wanted to snuggle with me and I made him sleep in his own bed. I tried to explain to him that we couldn't run the risks of getting Mommy and the baby sick! He didn't understand! He just knew that he was starting to feel better and he wanted to snuggle with Mom!
This morning he slept in late...like 10:15...and when he woke up he was feeling a LOT better! He is back to his self and is running around the house, playing with Matthew! He would still rather eat applesauce versus real food, but I'm okay with that!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Sickness...once again!
As, I was trying to go to sleep last night, the only thought I could get through my head was...why does Andrew always seem to get the weird things! Not that they are weird, but Drew just gets them!
When Andrew woke up yesterday to get ready for school, he was complaining of a headache! In true parent manner I gave him a Tylenol and told him to get ready for school! He went and I went off to work for a 9 hour day of meetings/training.
A little after 1230 I got a call to call my mom on her cell phone! I knew that she was on her way to pick up Andrew from school because he was told to call Grandma if he needed to go home. I was proud of him for that! He was running a fever and continued with complaints of a headache!
I emailed our doc real quick to tell him what my plan of treatment was and what he suggested...all his reply said was...influenza swab!
I ran him into the clinic at 4 p.m. and they did a quick swab...which after my last nurses meeting, was the correct way...but that's besides the point! We waited the 10 minutes and then the door swung open to the room and doc just stood there with a grin on his face! All I had to say was, it's positive isn't it...A or B?
Of course, it was A pos, which for those of you oblivious to the rest of the world right now or like me avoid watching the news...a positive influenza A swab translates to positive for H1N1! NICE!
It wasn't like 30 min before we went to the doc that I was joking in my nurses meeting that since H1N1 had hit the hospital I was feeling contractions and would need to be off until after the flu season! :) The supervisors didn't find it funny, but the rest of us did!!
Needless to say, Andrew, Matthew, my mother and I all got prescriptions for tamiflu! I just feel bad because I feel like I'm treating him like he has the plague! Trying to prevent Matt from getting it and myself, but all I want to do is snuggle the poor kid!!
Now, I'm pretty sure he can't tolerate the tamiflu because he starts puking about 30-45 min after the medicine! We will try it again tonight and see what happens.
We will see what the next couple days bring!
When Andrew woke up yesterday to get ready for school, he was complaining of a headache! In true parent manner I gave him a Tylenol and told him to get ready for school! He went and I went off to work for a 9 hour day of meetings/training.
A little after 1230 I got a call to call my mom on her cell phone! I knew that she was on her way to pick up Andrew from school because he was told to call Grandma if he needed to go home. I was proud of him for that! He was running a fever and continued with complaints of a headache!
I emailed our doc real quick to tell him what my plan of treatment was and what he suggested...all his reply said was...influenza swab!
I ran him into the clinic at 4 p.m. and they did a quick swab...which after my last nurses meeting, was the correct way...but that's besides the point! We waited the 10 minutes and then the door swung open to the room and doc just stood there with a grin on his face! All I had to say was, it's positive isn't it...A or B?
Of course, it was A pos, which for those of you oblivious to the rest of the world right now or like me avoid watching the news...a positive influenza A swab translates to positive for H1N1! NICE!
It wasn't like 30 min before we went to the doc that I was joking in my nurses meeting that since H1N1 had hit the hospital I was feeling contractions and would need to be off until after the flu season! :) The supervisors didn't find it funny, but the rest of us did!!
Needless to say, Andrew, Matthew, my mother and I all got prescriptions for tamiflu! I just feel bad because I feel like I'm treating him like he has the plague! Trying to prevent Matt from getting it and myself, but all I want to do is snuggle the poor kid!!
Now, I'm pretty sure he can't tolerate the tamiflu because he starts puking about 30-45 min after the medicine! We will try it again tonight and see what happens.
We will see what the next couple days bring!
Like a Cow
After running to the grocery store this morning for 7 up and other supplies, Matthew was helping me unload the suburban when we got home. I grabbed the two bags and told him to grab the milk.
His response..."Mom, I can't carry it! It's like a cow!!"
I said...From a cow, yes! As heavy as a cow...I don't think so!
I then told him that his baby brother would weigh about that much and if he couldn't lift the milk he probably wouldn't be able to hold the baby!
Amazingly...he carried the milk into the house AND put it in the fridge! Crazy how things like that happen!
His response..."Mom, I can't carry it! It's like a cow!!"
I said...From a cow, yes! As heavy as a cow...I don't think so!
I then told him that his baby brother would weigh about that much and if he couldn't lift the milk he probably wouldn't be able to hold the baby!
Amazingly...he carried the milk into the house AND put it in the fridge! Crazy how things like that happen!
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Stop Jumping!
Matt was rummaging through the fridge tonight looking for something to snack on. He brought me a sandwich and told me that he thought I should eat the sandwich because that would make the baby stop jumping!
I don't know where he comes up with these things!!!
I don't know where he comes up with these things!!!
Wise Beyond His Years
I don't know that I should admit this story because it was a horrible moment in motherhood, but I was so proud of Matthew when all was said and done!
I was highly stressed this weekend, not sure as to why, but I was. Matthew caught me in a bad moment tonight and I snapped at him, yelling at him to get to bed.
He ran into his room and fifteen minutes later I went into his room! I knelt at his bed, leaned in and kissed him and apologized for yelling!
I said...Can you please forgive Mommy? I shouldn't have yelled at you!
He said...No..
I said...Why?
He said...because I love you mom!
I then had to explain that when someone asks you to forgive them, you usually say yes. He said...OH! Yes, Mom, I forgive you!
All I could do was kiss him over and over again!
I was highly stressed this weekend, not sure as to why, but I was. Matthew caught me in a bad moment tonight and I snapped at him, yelling at him to get to bed.
He ran into his room and fifteen minutes later I went into his room! I knelt at his bed, leaned in and kissed him and apologized for yelling!
I said...Can you please forgive Mommy? I shouldn't have yelled at you!
He said...No..
I said...Why?
He said...because I love you mom!
I then had to explain that when someone asks you to forgive them, you usually say yes. He said...OH! Yes, Mom, I forgive you!
All I could do was kiss him over and over again!
Friday, October 16, 2009
Wish List
I asked Matthew tonight what he wanted for Christmas tonight and he simply said...a shovel.
Jason asked him what kind of shovel he wanted and his reply...
I want one my age. I don't want one you age!
Jason is pretty sure he can fullfill this request!
Jason asked him what kind of shovel he wanted and his reply...
I want one my age. I don't want one you age!
Jason is pretty sure he can fullfill this request!
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
True Love
This isn't about the boys tonight!
We have a mouse in our house and living next to a field, I expect it!
Jason was setting the trap and so he asked me to put peanut butter on the trap. My theory...the more peanut butter...the quicker I am catching this damn rodent!
With peanut butter piled high I hand the trap to Jason and he sets it and then it immediately goes off in his hands. Luckily for him, he didn't get it!
His reaction...You can't weigh down the trap! You have to make it want to get on!! You're not making it a F***** sandwich!!
This lead to uncontrollable laughter and my husband questioning my genius!
We have a mouse in our house and living next to a field, I expect it!
Jason was setting the trap and so he asked me to put peanut butter on the trap. My theory...the more peanut butter...the quicker I am catching this damn rodent!
With peanut butter piled high I hand the trap to Jason and he sets it and then it immediately goes off in his hands. Luckily for him, he didn't get it!
His reaction...You can't weigh down the trap! You have to make it want to get on!! You're not making it a F***** sandwich!!
This lead to uncontrollable laughter and my husband questioning my genius!
Monday, October 05, 2009
Here a Wheeze...There a Wheeze
For the last couple of years, it has been normal for Matthew to have a little asthma attack when it goes from warm to rainy and cold. Drs. Kronberg and Murphy have both just told us to expect it! It's only when he runs a temp that throws me off! Thank God for Jessica answering text messages at all hours! :)
Needless to say, Matt attacked this weekend and earned himself a trip to the ED because of course it was on a Sunday! We have pediapred and breathing treatments for a few days. By Sunday night though, I thought we should have padded walls, because he was bouncing off of them! Gotta love pediapred and albuterol!
As I snuggled into bed last night, I was so looking forward to sleep, but about that time, Drew started with a tight harsh cough. At midnight I started neb treatments and then every 2 hours until we got to the doc a 9 a.m.!
Hit up the doc at 9 a.m. and tells me what I was kind of thinking...Drew is now attacking as well! I questioned that his PFTs were normal in July and so how could this be? He said...things change nurse Jennifer! I knew this, but Dr. Murphy was so hopeful that we would avoid this!
Now, I have TWO children on pediapred and I would like to thank the doctors right now for helping me to lose my hair! JK!
Needless to say, Matt attacked this weekend and earned himself a trip to the ED because of course it was on a Sunday! We have pediapred and breathing treatments for a few days. By Sunday night though, I thought we should have padded walls, because he was bouncing off of them! Gotta love pediapred and albuterol!
As I snuggled into bed last night, I was so looking forward to sleep, but about that time, Drew started with a tight harsh cough. At midnight I started neb treatments and then every 2 hours until we got to the doc a 9 a.m.!
Hit up the doc at 9 a.m. and tells me what I was kind of thinking...Drew is now attacking as well! I questioned that his PFTs were normal in July and so how could this be? He said...things change nurse Jennifer! I knew this, but Dr. Murphy was so hopeful that we would avoid this!
Now, I have TWO children on pediapred and I would like to thank the doctors right now for helping me to lose my hair! JK!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
2 O'Clock
Matthew has decided that he is learning to tell time! He is always asking what time it is! Last night around 10:30 he said...let me see your phone, I want to see what time it is.
I showed him my phone and he goes..."2 o'clock!"
I chuckled of course, but tonight at 8:45 p.m. Matt says..."Let me see your phone, I need to know what time it is!"
I show him my phone and he goes..."2 o'clock!"
What a kid!
I showed him my phone and he goes..."2 o'clock!"
I chuckled of course, but tonight at 8:45 p.m. Matt says..."Let me see your phone, I need to know what time it is!"
I show him my phone and he goes..."2 o'clock!"
What a kid!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
What a day!
I started the day by calling the doctor today to let him know I've been a little crampy the last couple days, instead of being like "Okay, watch yourself." I get..."Get in here as soon as possible!"
I go in and he says that he's worried about my history...pre-term labor with Matthew...and my job...being a nurse! :) He then sends me up to the hospital for a non-stress test, which at 27 weeks, isn't the greatest, but would show what my uterus is doing! :)
The test turned out fine, it was actually really good because he was more reactive in the test than he should be at 27 weeks! However, he wanted to see if bringing my stress level down would help with the cramping, so I get to get acquainted with my couch for the next couple of days!
He also sent me home with instructions to drink lots since my heart was racing and my urine wasn't really good!
I have to go back in Friday and get the final verdict then!
This child I have a feeling is living up to his namesake...early! I think he may have flipped too because my ribs are getting kicked tonight, rather than my bladder!!
I go in and he says that he's worried about my history...pre-term labor with Matthew...and my job...being a nurse! :) He then sends me up to the hospital for a non-stress test, which at 27 weeks, isn't the greatest, but would show what my uterus is doing! :)
The test turned out fine, it was actually really good because he was more reactive in the test than he should be at 27 weeks! However, he wanted to see if bringing my stress level down would help with the cramping, so I get to get acquainted with my couch for the next couple of days!
He also sent me home with instructions to drink lots since my heart was racing and my urine wasn't really good!
I have to go back in Friday and get the final verdict then!
This child I have a feeling is living up to his namesake...early! I think he may have flipped too because my ribs are getting kicked tonight, rather than my bladder!!
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Choke!
Matthew is taking Dallergy twice a day during this awesome time known as allergy season!
I had forgot to give him the pill tonight, so I said to him real quick...Matthew should we go take your pill real quick?
He goes...YES! Momma, I need milk with it though so I can choke it down!
I'm not sure where he came up with this, butI got a good chuckle out of it!
I had forgot to give him the pill tonight, so I said to him real quick...Matthew should we go take your pill real quick?
He goes...YES! Momma, I need milk with it though so I can choke it down!
I'm not sure where he came up with this, butI got a good chuckle out of it!
God Moment
I find joy in many little things and can cry at pretty much the smallest things tonight, but this took the cake!
I am putting together a small scrapbook for my boys about their Great-grandparent Shoemakers. Matthew was snuggled up next to me and was looking at the pictures and he goes..."I know him."
For those that don't know...my Grandpa passed in 1998.
I asked and said..."How do you know him?"
He said..."That my Grandpa."
With a big smile on my face, I showed him another picture...all of these pictures are from way before even my time!!
I again asked..."Who is that?"
He said..."Bob, my grandpa!"
I started crying. I talk about their great-grandpa often, but not in great details. I will say things like..."Your Great-grandpa would have loved you so much!" I say this when they are being goofy and I can picture grandpa sitting here smiling!
I asked further..."How do you know who that is?"
Matt said..."I see him."
I asked..."Where did you see him?"
"In my head!"
Then I started telling him about how Grandpa went to live with God way before Matthew was ever born.
Then Matthew said something that stopped my heart..."Momma, he was with God when I see him!"
Now, I'm not a quack, and it's not like I take what a 4 year old tells me to heart, but it was just one of those perfect moments.
For those that don't know...Matthew was named after his great-grandpa...Matthew Robert!
I am putting together a small scrapbook for my boys about their Great-grandparent Shoemakers. Matthew was snuggled up next to me and was looking at the pictures and he goes..."I know him."
For those that don't know...my Grandpa passed in 1998.
I asked and said..."How do you know him?"
He said..."That my Grandpa."
With a big smile on my face, I showed him another picture...all of these pictures are from way before even my time!!
I again asked..."Who is that?"
He said..."Bob, my grandpa!"
I started crying. I talk about their great-grandpa often, but not in great details. I will say things like..."Your Great-grandpa would have loved you so much!" I say this when they are being goofy and I can picture grandpa sitting here smiling!
I asked further..."How do you know who that is?"
Matt said..."I see him."
I asked..."Where did you see him?"
"In my head!"
Then I started telling him about how Grandpa went to live with God way before Matthew was ever born.
Then Matthew said something that stopped my heart..."Momma, he was with God when I see him!"
Now, I'm not a quack, and it's not like I take what a 4 year old tells me to heart, but it was just one of those perfect moments.
For those that don't know...Matthew was named after his great-grandpa...Matthew Robert!
Dreaming
last night Matthew crawled in bed with me about 3 a.m. He crawls in bed with me and tells me that when my tummy gets big enough...the baby will just "pop" out! I chuckled and then he snuggled right in!
Who knows what he was dreaming about, but he is so concerned about this baby and how he's going to get out of mommy's tummy!
Who knows what he was dreaming about, but he is so concerned about this baby and how he's going to get out of mommy's tummy!
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
Updates!!
We visited with Dr. Murphy and Dr. Rhinehardt again today!
Dr. Rhinehardt said that Matthew's hypermobility is doing great. Needs some more help to stabilize hips and ankles, but we can do that! He said as far as long run, we don't need to see him, unless we have issues. As far as long, long run he may have to wear ankle braces to support his ankles from rolling when he plays sports, but so did Jason and I!
Okay...so allergy update!
Drew's regimen got all changed again today! He will continue with the Dallergy twice a day and the steroid cream for now, but since all of his allergies are things we can't control...grass, trees, ragweed...and the medicine isn't working very well, we get to start allergy shots.
He said with Matthew's being food allergies, we could take them away from him so therefore no shots. This is not the case obviously with Drew.
They mix up the serum and then send it to the clinic here and then we go in once a week for shots.
He wanted to do this therapy so he doesn't have to shove pills down his throat for the rest of his life! :) I like that theory!
He was very hopeful that we could make Drew feel better! He said the downfall to all of this, is that he's allergic to all the things that little boys love!
Matt got some help out with allergies too, and possible future testing later, but for now, just a pill to help!
Dr. Rhinehardt said that Matthew's hypermobility is doing great. Needs some more help to stabilize hips and ankles, but we can do that! He said as far as long run, we don't need to see him, unless we have issues. As far as long, long run he may have to wear ankle braces to support his ankles from rolling when he plays sports, but so did Jason and I!
Okay...so allergy update!
Drew's regimen got all changed again today! He will continue with the Dallergy twice a day and the steroid cream for now, but since all of his allergies are things we can't control...grass, trees, ragweed...and the medicine isn't working very well, we get to start allergy shots.
He said with Matthew's being food allergies, we could take them away from him so therefore no shots. This is not the case obviously with Drew.
They mix up the serum and then send it to the clinic here and then we go in once a week for shots.
He wanted to do this therapy so he doesn't have to shove pills down his throat for the rest of his life! :) I like that theory!
He was very hopeful that we could make Drew feel better! He said the downfall to all of this, is that he's allergic to all the things that little boys love!
Matt got some help out with allergies too, and possible future testing later, but for now, just a pill to help!
Thursday, September 03, 2009
School
I picked up Drew this afternoon from school this afternoon and said tohim...what did you learn today?
Reply..."NOTHING!"
I said, "surely you had to learn something!"
He goes..."No mom, we learned absolutely nothing!"
Who knows...but he cracks me up!
Reply..."NOTHING!"
I said, "surely you had to learn something!"
He goes..."No mom, we learned absolutely nothing!"
Who knows...but he cracks me up!
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
Speech Practice
Matthew has been taking speech therapy for almost 2 years now.
He brought home words tonight to work on and so we sat down to work on them. The focus was on the three syllable words and getting all of the syllables. We had a few issues...funny ones...
"animals" came out... "ani animals"
"camera" came out... "have cam-er-a"
and my favorite...
I said..."sa-lam-i"
Reply..."sa-lam-you!"
He brought home words tonight to work on and so we sat down to work on them. The focus was on the three syllable words and getting all of the syllables. We had a few issues...funny ones...
"animals" came out... "ani animals"
"camera" came out... "have cam-er-a"
and my favorite...
I said..."sa-lam-i"
Reply..."sa-lam-you!"
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Rock it!
I noticed today while cleaning that one of my Willow Trees was missing.
Matt attempted to put a hat away and all of a sudden I heard this noise that sounded like a rock rolling down the wall...
What do you know...my WILLOW TREE!
Jason goes..."What is that?"
Matt replied...
"I don't know, but it sounded like a rock!"
Matt attempted to put a hat away and all of a sudden I heard this noise that sounded like a rock rolling down the wall...
What do you know...my WILLOW TREE!
Jason goes..."What is that?"
Matt replied...
"I don't know, but it sounded like a rock!"
Birthday gifts
My dad had picked up Matthew's birthday presents for me at John Deere...of course.
I thought I was being tricky by changing it from my Dad's truck to the back of my suburban. I was in the house talking with my parents when I looked out in the suburban and saw Matthew sitting in his seat. From the suburban he yells...
"Mom, come see the toys that I found!"
My thought...CRAP!!!
I got them home and I brought him in the house and Jason strategically moved them again and then let Matthew go.
Next I knew he came whining to me...
"Mom, the toys are gone."
"What toys?"
"My toys!"
I knew what he was talking about, but was obviously playing dumb. Jason and Drew played along and he was heart broken for awhile...
Then he forgot.
Dad informed me that he also found the gift from my parents!!
I thought I was being tricky by changing it from my Dad's truck to the back of my suburban. I was in the house talking with my parents when I looked out in the suburban and saw Matthew sitting in his seat. From the suburban he yells...
"Mom, come see the toys that I found!"
My thought...CRAP!!!
I got them home and I brought him in the house and Jason strategically moved them again and then let Matthew go.
Next I knew he came whining to me...
"Mom, the toys are gone."
"What toys?"
"My toys!"
I knew what he was talking about, but was obviously playing dumb. Jason and Drew played along and he was heart broken for awhile...
Then he forgot.
Dad informed me that he also found the gift from my parents!!
China
Matthew has been in a "mood" today! I'm sure it's because his birthday is tomorrow!!
After a day of putting up with his last day of him being 3...I simply said to him...
"Matt, how do you feel about China?"
His reply...
"Good."
Before that chuckle could be over, Andrew yells from the bathroom...
"Mom, I know you don't like Matt, but would you send me to China? I want to try to food!"
That one took Jason and I to the floor!
After a day of putting up with his last day of him being 3...I simply said to him...
"Matt, how do you feel about China?"
His reply...
"Good."
Before that chuckle could be over, Andrew yells from the bathroom...
"Mom, I know you don't like Matt, but would you send me to China? I want to try to food!"
That one took Jason and I to the floor!
Friday, August 28, 2009
GREAT news!
I'm not sure if I shared, but the first ultrasound we had of babe went good, but he had questionable measurements with the ventricles in his brain. The report said something like...borderline dimensions, short term followed up recommended.
I spoke with the doc and we talk about what this could mean, including hydrocephalus. We would have to repeat the ultrasound and if there was a change and they would have enlarged then we wouuld trip to Omaha to have a specialist look at them.
Needless to say, I haven't slept much the last 4 weeks.
We had our repeat ultrasound this mroning and everything went great! His ventricles are fine, no enlargement and he looks great! He kept his hands up by his face the entire time!! He looks like the has the longest legs!!! I have to pull out Matthew's ultrasound pics, but he looks like he has Andrew's nose! :)
I'm so excited! Now we just have to decide on a name!
To think...I could be holding a new baby in as little as 15 weeks!
I spoke with the doc and we talk about what this could mean, including hydrocephalus. We would have to repeat the ultrasound and if there was a change and they would have enlarged then we wouuld trip to Omaha to have a specialist look at them.
Needless to say, I haven't slept much the last 4 weeks.
We had our repeat ultrasound this mroning and everything went great! His ventricles are fine, no enlargement and he looks great! He kept his hands up by his face the entire time!! He looks like the has the longest legs!!! I have to pull out Matthew's ultrasound pics, but he looks like he has Andrew's nose! :)
I'm so excited! Now we just have to decide on a name!
To think...I could be holding a new baby in as little as 15 weeks!
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Thinking...
Today, I was laying in bed before getting up to get ready for Uncle Bob's party. I asked Matthew Robert if I could have a kiss before I got up and he didn't move. Normally he's jumping right on top of you to give ya a big kiss so I said...
"Can't Mommy have a kiss?"
His reply...
"I'm thinking about it!"
Monday, August 17, 2009
Andrew's First Day of Kindergarten
Well, we all survived the first day of Kindergarten. It's amazing how easily I can get out of bed when I have to! HAHA!
I took him into the classroom and got clear outside before my aunt had to remind me that my baby was going to school. I only teared up! He was ready for it though!
Matt on the other hand took it pretty hard. We came home and he laid on the floor/couch/bed and didn't move (unless to a different location) until it was time to go pick up Drew.
The day is done, and we are getting ready for day 2 to begin. Drew's only comment was that he was disappointed that they didn't learn anything on the first day! His comment was, "Mom, we didn't even learn anything today!"
I hope that appetite for education stays with him!
Our biggest feat today was trying to win the allergy battle!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
More Allergies!!
It seems to be that the only time I write on here is when the boys have some new medical advancement! HAHA! Needless to say, we do!
I took Andrew to see Dr. Murphy on July 27, for a little allergy intervention. I knew he had been having allergy issues, I was just not sure as to what he was allergic to. We had it down to dogs for sure, but knew there had to be other things.
They did the scratch testing and after waiting the 10 min for results, Drew had reactions to 20 out of the 28 possibilities!!! In comparison, Matthew had 3 or 4 positives, with maybe a couple questionables. Andrew did not leave anything up for question!
Fortunately for us, no foods, so that means no altering the diet. Unfortunately for us, it's the rest of the world that he is allergic to! I need to add to my fortunately list, that house dust is not a positive either!! YAY FOR ME! Since those of you who know me, know I don't like to dust! :)
His list covers, but is not limited to, trees, grass, cats, ragweed, mold and other things that just naturally occur in the air. There are others, I just can't remember them off the top of my head.
He was started on D'Allergy medicine twice a day and a cream to his skin when his eczema gets really bad.
He also has to carry around an epi-pen since there are so many allergies. I'm not sure how this will work with school. I'm sure it has to be kept in the office, but after thinking about this, the office is a ways away from his classroom should they need it right away! This is something that I will be looking into in the near future!
He also had lung function tests which showed that he does not have asthma, but Dr. Murphy said we can't rule out some serious sinus problems in the future. He can thank his dad for that one!
So this is where we are at. We check back in with Dr. Murphy in 2 weeks and then see him again in September.
Matthew is now looking more and more like my healthy one all the time! :)
I took Andrew to see Dr. Murphy on July 27, for a little allergy intervention. I knew he had been having allergy issues, I was just not sure as to what he was allergic to. We had it down to dogs for sure, but knew there had to be other things.
They did the scratch testing and after waiting the 10 min for results, Drew had reactions to 20 out of the 28 possibilities!!! In comparison, Matthew had 3 or 4 positives, with maybe a couple questionables. Andrew did not leave anything up for question!
Fortunately for us, no foods, so that means no altering the diet. Unfortunately for us, it's the rest of the world that he is allergic to! I need to add to my fortunately list, that house dust is not a positive either!! YAY FOR ME! Since those of you who know me, know I don't like to dust! :)
His list covers, but is not limited to, trees, grass, cats, ragweed, mold and other things that just naturally occur in the air. There are others, I just can't remember them off the top of my head.
He was started on D'Allergy medicine twice a day and a cream to his skin when his eczema gets really bad.
He also has to carry around an epi-pen since there are so many allergies. I'm not sure how this will work with school. I'm sure it has to be kept in the office, but after thinking about this, the office is a ways away from his classroom should they need it right away! This is something that I will be looking into in the near future!
He also had lung function tests which showed that he does not have asthma, but Dr. Murphy said we can't rule out some serious sinus problems in the future. He can thank his dad for that one!
So this is where we are at. We check back in with Dr. Murphy in 2 weeks and then see him again in September.
Matthew is now looking more and more like my healthy one all the time! :)
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Exhaustion
Matthew has been working so hard the last couple days to learn how to ride a big boy bike!!
So when we came into the house tonight after everyone had left from Drew's birthday party...everything has been in tears. He lays down wrong and he cries...Drew puts up hi farm and he cries... He is so tired...
Needless to say, we were in the bathtub by 6:30 p.m.!! :)
So when we came into the house tonight after everyone had left from Drew's birthday party...everything has been in tears. He lays down wrong and he cries...Drew puts up hi farm and he cries... He is so tired...
Needless to say, we were in the bathtub by 6:30 p.m.!! :)
My Little Man
It's amazing...we just celebrated Andrew's 6th birthday! His birthday was on Thursday, but Sunday's work best for partys.
I am loving watching him grow. He's writing and trying to use computers. He loves riding his new bike and has this huge interest in playing basketball. He got a basketball hoop for his birthday and spent the afternoon running Uncle Luke in circles, but he had fun!
Now he's busy laying on the floor putting together his farm that Bob and Mariclaire got him! His patience is getting longer and he is so kind and gentle with Matthew! He is also into fishing and loves it!
I am so proud of the man he is becoming.
I am loving watching him grow. He's writing and trying to use computers. He loves riding his new bike and has this huge interest in playing basketball. He got a basketball hoop for his birthday and spent the afternoon running Uncle Luke in circles, but he had fun!
Now he's busy laying on the floor putting together his farm that Bob and Mariclaire got him! His patience is getting longer and he is so kind and gentle with Matthew! He is also into fishing and loves it!
I am so proud of the man he is becoming.
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
Recap!
I just realized that I didn't post much since last week. I didn't finish with the whole story!
After seeing Dr. Reinhart on Wednesday of last week, we went and met Kate Collins, a physical therapist at Children's. I had spoken with one of our physical therapists here in O'Neill and she suggested that we be "eval'd" by a PT at Children's since ASAH doesn't do a lot of pediatrics.
Kate was really good with Matthew and it was even better that she had done some of her clinical rotation at ASAH so she knew how it worked. Matt was kind of shy at first, but she got him playing and worked with us, showing us how to work with him. She was then going to report off to the PTs in O'Neill so they could do the therapy here! It wasn't anything major! Just basically a playdate!
Friday the MRI was done and when we got there, Matthew was a champion! He got dressed like they asked, he let them take his vitals like he asked, the only thing he did was kept repeating...no shots! I just agreed! Technically he wasn't going to get a shot...he was getting an IV!!
We were all set and then were notified that there was an emergency and that we were behind by about an hour, which was no problem. The anesthesiologist, Dr. Druvall, ( I think) who is amazing and spoke with me and shared concerns with me. I stated I was concerned with the knees, but it had only been ordered a pelvic. She was going to talk to Dr. Kronberg and see what he said.
Twenty minutes later, I am on the phone with Dr. Kronberg. He shares that he thinks the diagnosis from Dr. Reinhart is basically bogus and then asked what labs he ran. When I said none, he states...I am ordering a uric acid, LDH and CBC right now! They waited til Matt was asleep before they drew the blood.
This put another worry in my head. I was so happy with the way the two days had gone prior, that I just wanted to cry! I just kept thinking...Why couldn't it be that simple!
They came and took Matt, did the MRI, and in the mean time I found out that all of Matthew's labs were normal! YAY! This meant to Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis! I was happy!
When I talked to Dr. Kronberg about the lab, Matthew had been back for awhile and we were getting ready to go home. He stated that he was happy with Matt's labs and he was even happy with his CBC that showed that Matt's allergies had been in check! YAY! I was doing something right! :)
At this point he hadn't heard anything from the MRI and stated that they would have called him by that point had something been off! I was okay with that!
One of the nurses had come in and asked Matt if he wanted some juice and crackers. He said, no...SOUP! The nurse brought him crackers and he asked...where's my soup! So the amazing nurse went and got him a bowl of chicken noodle soup! He ate it down like a champ! Then we got to go home!
Here we are...4 days post MRI and no news. I figure no news is good news, but Dr. Kronberg will be getting a call from me in the a.m.!
We've only had one night of leg pains...which Dr. Reinhart said will happen with this syndrome...so I am happy with that...and it wasn't all out crying...just kind of moans.
OH!!! Yeah, what Matthew has is a syndrome! It's called Benign Joint Hypermobility Syndrome or BJHS! Like I previously said, he is just a freak and can move his joints moreso than the most of us. It is genetic and Auntie MC had researched it more than I have! The PT will help build up the muscles around the joints to help alleviate the extra movement and therefore help alleviate the pain!
Let's hope! It's been a long year...a long 3 1/2 years to be exact! I am just happy he's healthy!
After seeing Dr. Reinhart on Wednesday of last week, we went and met Kate Collins, a physical therapist at Children's. I had spoken with one of our physical therapists here in O'Neill and she suggested that we be "eval'd" by a PT at Children's since ASAH doesn't do a lot of pediatrics.
Kate was really good with Matthew and it was even better that she had done some of her clinical rotation at ASAH so she knew how it worked. Matt was kind of shy at first, but she got him playing and worked with us, showing us how to work with him. She was then going to report off to the PTs in O'Neill so they could do the therapy here! It wasn't anything major! Just basically a playdate!
Friday the MRI was done and when we got there, Matthew was a champion! He got dressed like they asked, he let them take his vitals like he asked, the only thing he did was kept repeating...no shots! I just agreed! Technically he wasn't going to get a shot...he was getting an IV!!
We were all set and then were notified that there was an emergency and that we were behind by about an hour, which was no problem. The anesthesiologist, Dr. Druvall, ( I think) who is amazing and spoke with me and shared concerns with me. I stated I was concerned with the knees, but it had only been ordered a pelvic. She was going to talk to Dr. Kronberg and see what he said.
Twenty minutes later, I am on the phone with Dr. Kronberg. He shares that he thinks the diagnosis from Dr. Reinhart is basically bogus and then asked what labs he ran. When I said none, he states...I am ordering a uric acid, LDH and CBC right now! They waited til Matt was asleep before they drew the blood.
This put another worry in my head. I was so happy with the way the two days had gone prior, that I just wanted to cry! I just kept thinking...Why couldn't it be that simple!
They came and took Matt, did the MRI, and in the mean time I found out that all of Matthew's labs were normal! YAY! This meant to Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis! I was happy!
When I talked to Dr. Kronberg about the lab, Matthew had been back for awhile and we were getting ready to go home. He stated that he was happy with Matt's labs and he was even happy with his CBC that showed that Matt's allergies had been in check! YAY! I was doing something right! :)
At this point he hadn't heard anything from the MRI and stated that they would have called him by that point had something been off! I was okay with that!
One of the nurses had come in and asked Matt if he wanted some juice and crackers. He said, no...SOUP! The nurse brought him crackers and he asked...where's my soup! So the amazing nurse went and got him a bowl of chicken noodle soup! He ate it down like a champ! Then we got to go home!
Here we are...4 days post MRI and no news. I figure no news is good news, but Dr. Kronberg will be getting a call from me in the a.m.!
We've only had one night of leg pains...which Dr. Reinhart said will happen with this syndrome...so I am happy with that...and it wasn't all out crying...just kind of moans.
OH!!! Yeah, what Matthew has is a syndrome! It's called Benign Joint Hypermobility Syndrome or BJHS! Like I previously said, he is just a freak and can move his joints moreso than the most of us. It is genetic and Auntie MC had researched it more than I have! The PT will help build up the muscles around the joints to help alleviate the extra movement and therefore help alleviate the pain!
Let's hope! It's been a long year...a long 3 1/2 years to be exact! I am just happy he's healthy!
Monday, March 02, 2009
Hand Socks
I always joke around with Matthew and tell him he's weird or he's a nerd! He usually replies with...No you a nerd!
But he has hit new heights in his weird habits tonight!
For much of the day he has been walking around with socks on his hands! He took them off to eat supper and then when i said to get ready for bed...yeah...socks back on his hands. So when I asked him why he had socks on his hands and his simple reply..."Mom, my hands are cold!"
I guess that tells it all!
But he has hit new heights in his weird habits tonight!
For much of the day he has been walking around with socks on his hands! He took them off to eat supper and then when i said to get ready for bed...yeah...socks back on his hands. So when I asked him why he had socks on his hands and his simple reply..."Mom, my hands are cold!"
I guess that tells it all!
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