Friday, December 21, 2012
La Fete de Papa Noel
Our town had a great Christmas shindig downtown tonight to celebrate. All of the shops stayed open late, the church had a life sized nativity, Santa was hanging out, gumbo and drinks, caroling, a bouncy house, and pony rides perfected the evening. And it was all free for everyone. It's do hard to find people and places that don't capitalize on the monetary aspect of Christmas . Everyone was kind and loving and generous to each other. It was a blast.
Monday, December 17, 2012
Christmas Time is Near
So far, I've been super busy with making Christmas presents, doing business cards, designing ours (which should be out in the mail this week!), and nesting. I think my body knows that I don't have much time with Drum, so I've been nesting hard core. However, I've been nesting the smart way. With being so high-risk, we don't want to chance anything, so, I've been directing my sweet, accommodating husband as he does all of my tasks. Which have included:
Buying beds for the kids. Currently, we have a crib side-carred to our bed for babies that will convert to a full sized bed (headboard and footboard). We will use that for Auds when the boys have their own room. The kids... well, they're sleeping on mattresses on the floor. They like to play the "monkeys jumping on the bed" game too much and I wanted to find something sturdy for them. I searched, did a lot of research, and it would have been about $2k to get them something nearly indestructible from the store. Um...no. So, I decided to get something second hand from the early 1900s. If they've lasted this long, they've got to be okay, right? I fell in love with two sets in antique stores downtown. One was from the 1800s. It was gorgeous! But, after a lot of thought, I realized if they'd crack that bed I'd probably cry. Not the best solution. On to Craigslist. I found two 1930s iron bed frames (which run $1k+ in antique stores) for $75 - for both! We're going to sand them and paint them - and when I say "we," I mean "him."
I'll post pictures when they're all painted.
Then, I decided to rearrange the furniture. This from that room, that to this room. Ripping out shelves from the closets (that I did do by myself and got fussed at). Now all that's left before I can post pictures is to put up shelves and paint the dresser that was moved to the living room. I'm not that crazy, it looks okay. Pinterest it if you don't believe me.
Tony's mat is looking cute. Here's a picture of it in progress:
Buying beds for the kids. Currently, we have a crib side-carred to our bed for babies that will convert to a full sized bed (headboard and footboard). We will use that for Auds when the boys have their own room. The kids... well, they're sleeping on mattresses on the floor. They like to play the "monkeys jumping on the bed" game too much and I wanted to find something sturdy for them. I searched, did a lot of research, and it would have been about $2k to get them something nearly indestructible from the store. Um...no. So, I decided to get something second hand from the early 1900s. If they've lasted this long, they've got to be okay, right? I fell in love with two sets in antique stores downtown. One was from the 1800s. It was gorgeous! But, after a lot of thought, I realized if they'd crack that bed I'd probably cry. Not the best solution. On to Craigslist. I found two 1930s iron bed frames (which run $1k+ in antique stores) for $75 - for both! We're going to sand them and paint them - and when I say "we," I mean "him."
I'll post pictures when they're all painted.
Then, I decided to rearrange the furniture. This from that room, that to this room. Ripping out shelves from the closets (that I did do by myself and got fussed at). Now all that's left before I can post pictures is to put up shelves and paint the dresser that was moved to the living room. I'm not that crazy, it looks okay. Pinterest it if you don't believe me.
Tony's mat is looking cute. Here's a picture of it in progress:
I ended up removing one of the sets of stop signs and adding in our church. I'll add to it with each holiday with places he knows. I think he'll like it. I also made him a policeman dress up vest that is precious, but forgot to take a picture of it before putting it in it's box.
Auds got a "Princess Aurora" tutu and a "Princess Rapunzel" tutu. I think she'll love them! She's asked for a Cinderella tutu for her birthday.
Princess Aurora
Princess Rapunzel
I've also been working on things with the kids to get them into the spirit. We have our missionary elf Twinkie and a plastic nativity. "Quit throwing baby Jesus!" are words I never thought I would utter before having a boy.
We also made the holy family out of some old rolls. Mary ended up being orange, Joseph was green and baby Jesus was blue. Jesus has since been chewed on by Fitz ("Don't feed your Savior to the dog!" another good quote) and has seen better days.
I also found an awesome ride on John Deere tractor while out at the antique and thrift stores for $10 - those usually go for over $100! I even got yelled at by a lady as I was walking off with it coz she wanted it. She even followed me for a little while. It was kind of awkward. I still want to find something of similar price and size (this thing is large) for Auds as well. I don't think I should be allowed to go thrifting often. haha
Monday, December 10, 2012
God is GOOD!!
Being high risk, I have to go to a neonatal specialist to check on things further. Today was my first visit with him. I'll admit, I was a little nervous. My appointment was pushed back two hours due to an emergency surgery and I had to wait for an hour before going in the back.
When we finally got back (I'm so thankful that Beau was able to come with me), we went straight to the ultrasound room and did about an half hour ultrasound with the tech. Of course, he couldn't tell us anything, but told us that the doctor was watching and he would go and check with him about the results and then the doctor would come in. He told me to stay in the room laying down because the doctor would probably want to do his own ultrasound - I figured that couldn't be good. Who wants to go through an half hour ultrasound only to be told that you'd have to do another one with the doctor?
So, Beau and I sat in the room and made horrible jokes about the Anne Geddes pictures all over the walls before the doctor came in. When he came in, he asked what brought me in. I told him that I was diagnosed with a septate uterus and was risked out of the birth center of choice and sent there for monitoring. He told us that he didn't see a septum in the results.
Say what?!!!!!
We had been through all of this agony and told we couldn't have kids because of this condition and then we don't have it?
He proceeded to do his own ultrasound. As it turns out, I DO NOT have a septate uterus! I do, however have a complete bicornuate uterus. This still means that the baby only has half of a uterus to grow in. This still means that I am high risk and have to see the specialist and watch for signs of premature labor. How can this be positive news? There isn't a risk of the septum tearing and me hemorrhaging and having to have an emergency hysterectomy! It's still a miracle that I can have kids, but the risk to me isn't as high. Not that I'm not worried about my baby, but it is nice to not have to worry about if my babies will have a momma after this one.
I do have to, however, start taking hormone injections weekly which will decrease the risk of a preemie by about 20% - not much, but I'll take it. I have to be monitored still and very careful with my diet - I have a nutrition appointment with my midwife next week. I have to take the gestational diabetes test early (like the next two weeks), at the normal time, and again later to make sure that everything is okay and there's no risk of a too-large baby. Usually, I don't buy the too-large baby thing, but since it only has half a uterus in which to grow, it makes it kind of a legitimate concern now.
I will have to start having vaginal ultrasounds - eek - regularly to examine my cervix for any signs of premature labor starting in 8 weeks.
But, he said that if I can make it to term, I can have the baby at the birthing center in the manner of my choice because there is no risk of death to me! Our main concern is to keep the baby in for as long as possible. My midwives were so excited! Of course, if the baby is preemie, they'll come with my and be my doulas, but there is a chance that I can have my un-invasive birth after all! I'm looking forward to this coz there is a good sushi restaurant right down the road from me that I plan on indulging in. :)
God is so good. Although it's not ideal for every pregnancy, it is a MUCH better diagnosis for us that the original one.
Oh, and the good thing about going to a specialist with very high resolution machines is that we now know what "it" is.
Say "hello," to Drummond.
When we finally got back (I'm so thankful that Beau was able to come with me), we went straight to the ultrasound room and did about an half hour ultrasound with the tech. Of course, he couldn't tell us anything, but told us that the doctor was watching and he would go and check with him about the results and then the doctor would come in. He told me to stay in the room laying down because the doctor would probably want to do his own ultrasound - I figured that couldn't be good. Who wants to go through an half hour ultrasound only to be told that you'd have to do another one with the doctor?
So, Beau and I sat in the room and made horrible jokes about the Anne Geddes pictures all over the walls before the doctor came in. When he came in, he asked what brought me in. I told him that I was diagnosed with a septate uterus and was risked out of the birth center of choice and sent there for monitoring. He told us that he didn't see a septum in the results.
Say what?!!!!!
We had been through all of this agony and told we couldn't have kids because of this condition and then we don't have it?
He proceeded to do his own ultrasound. As it turns out, I DO NOT have a septate uterus! I do, however have a complete bicornuate uterus. This still means that the baby only has half of a uterus to grow in. This still means that I am high risk and have to see the specialist and watch for signs of premature labor. How can this be positive news? There isn't a risk of the septum tearing and me hemorrhaging and having to have an emergency hysterectomy! It's still a miracle that I can have kids, but the risk to me isn't as high. Not that I'm not worried about my baby, but it is nice to not have to worry about if my babies will have a momma after this one.
I do have to, however, start taking hormone injections weekly which will decrease the risk of a preemie by about 20% - not much, but I'll take it. I have to be monitored still and very careful with my diet - I have a nutrition appointment with my midwife next week. I have to take the gestational diabetes test early (like the next two weeks), at the normal time, and again later to make sure that everything is okay and there's no risk of a too-large baby. Usually, I don't buy the too-large baby thing, but since it only has half a uterus in which to grow, it makes it kind of a legitimate concern now.
I will have to start having vaginal ultrasounds - eek - regularly to examine my cervix for any signs of premature labor starting in 8 weeks.
But, he said that if I can make it to term, I can have the baby at the birthing center in the manner of my choice because there is no risk of death to me! Our main concern is to keep the baby in for as long as possible. My midwives were so excited! Of course, if the baby is preemie, they'll come with my and be my doulas, but there is a chance that I can have my un-invasive birth after all! I'm looking forward to this coz there is a good sushi restaurant right down the road from me that I plan on indulging in. :)
God is so good. Although it's not ideal for every pregnancy, it is a MUCH better diagnosis for us that the original one.
Oh, and the good thing about going to a specialist with very high resolution machines is that we now know what "it" is.
Say "hello," to Drummond.
Auds was a hysterical at first and didn't want a baby brother since she was so sure it was a sister, but I remedied that. Drummond took her and Tony shopping for a present for each of them to show them how much he loved them and how he was so excited to grow up with them. After she got her tea set, she proclaimed loudly, "I feel like having a baby brother now. I love you, Drummond."
God certainly answered our prayers and although it is not a complete and total healing, it is still a miracle change in circumstances and we are elated at his goodness to us.
Friday, December 7, 2012
Bummer
Big, stinking bummer. I haven't written this post yet coz A) I've been super duper busy, B) I'm exhausted, and C) it's a crummy subject to write about.
I can't have an out of hospital birth with Lefty. I have been deemed too high risk and have to take a lot of special precautions to keep Lefty as healthy as possible and in as long as possible. My dream was to have a birth center birth with Lefty and then to have home births with future ones. Not gonna happen.
For this pregnancy, I have two options. I can continue to see my midwives, an OB (who I really don't like, but at least he's a good doctor), and a high-rish neonatal specialist OR I can switch to an OB that I like (I've gotten some recommendations from my midwife), notify them that I'm high risk, and have my midwives as my doulas instead. Either way, I'll be highly monitored and stuck in a hospital. We have an appointment with the specialist on Monday and will make out choice after we get a feel for him.
Annnnd, biggest bummer of all... I can't have any more pregnancies after this one. There is a chance that after this one I might have to have an emergency hysterectomy (the words no woman wants to hear). Even if I don't, the risk on any future babies and myself would be too great that it would be a bad idea to do it. I was told that I shouldn't even have the babies I have and the fact that I'm pregnant now is a miracle and a gift from God, so I am focusing on the positive that God is good and blesses abundantly. I have three miracle children. That's HUGE. But, it's still a hard pill to swallow.
I'm praying that the test results aren't true and that God can heal and everything will be okay, but we do have to be realistic and prepare for the worst case scenario in case this is God's will for us.
However, we do feel called to have a big family and will just adopt in the future if God provides. There is an orphanage that we support and we're planning on adopting from there down the road. God never closes one door without opening another.
It's been a whirlwind over here lately with long doctor's appointments and lots of prayer. God has brought me this far, and I know he'll provide for a healthy (and hopefully lengthy) pregnancy.
Of course I could go on and on about the mixed feelings of elation that I have three miracles and the devastation of not being able to have more, but any mom who has kids or who has ever lost a baby understands how overwhelming that can be.
For the time being, I'm keeping positive, saving our pennies for the likely increased medical cost that our insurance won't cover, and giving God the glory for giving me my wonderful babies.
I'll preface this next statement with the fact that I LOVE my kids. Adore them. Next to God and my husband they are my world. But when I heard from midwives and doctors that they can't explain how I had them and how I have the one currently gestating, my heart overflowed with gratitude for them and I appreciate them sooooo much more. Not that I didn't before, but it really put into perspective how great our God is and how easy it is to become so wrapped up in the day-to-days of life that we see miracles as common place, something we're used to and can depend on. Each day really is a gift. Each breath and each moment are not guaranteed to us.
So hug your babies a little tighter and remember just how precious and miraculous they are.
I can't have an out of hospital birth with Lefty. I have been deemed too high risk and have to take a lot of special precautions to keep Lefty as healthy as possible and in as long as possible. My dream was to have a birth center birth with Lefty and then to have home births with future ones. Not gonna happen.
For this pregnancy, I have two options. I can continue to see my midwives, an OB (who I really don't like, but at least he's a good doctor), and a high-rish neonatal specialist OR I can switch to an OB that I like (I've gotten some recommendations from my midwife), notify them that I'm high risk, and have my midwives as my doulas instead. Either way, I'll be highly monitored and stuck in a hospital. We have an appointment with the specialist on Monday and will make out choice after we get a feel for him.
Annnnd, biggest bummer of all... I can't have any more pregnancies after this one. There is a chance that after this one I might have to have an emergency hysterectomy (the words no woman wants to hear). Even if I don't, the risk on any future babies and myself would be too great that it would be a bad idea to do it. I was told that I shouldn't even have the babies I have and the fact that I'm pregnant now is a miracle and a gift from God, so I am focusing on the positive that God is good and blesses abundantly. I have three miracle children. That's HUGE. But, it's still a hard pill to swallow.
I'm praying that the test results aren't true and that God can heal and everything will be okay, but we do have to be realistic and prepare for the worst case scenario in case this is God's will for us.
However, we do feel called to have a big family and will just adopt in the future if God provides. There is an orphanage that we support and we're planning on adopting from there down the road. God never closes one door without opening another.
It's been a whirlwind over here lately with long doctor's appointments and lots of prayer. God has brought me this far, and I know he'll provide for a healthy (and hopefully lengthy) pregnancy.
Of course I could go on and on about the mixed feelings of elation that I have three miracles and the devastation of not being able to have more, but any mom who has kids or who has ever lost a baby understands how overwhelming that can be.
For the time being, I'm keeping positive, saving our pennies for the likely increased medical cost that our insurance won't cover, and giving God the glory for giving me my wonderful babies.
I'll preface this next statement with the fact that I LOVE my kids. Adore them. Next to God and my husband they are my world. But when I heard from midwives and doctors that they can't explain how I had them and how I have the one currently gestating, my heart overflowed with gratitude for them and I appreciate them sooooo much more. Not that I didn't before, but it really put into perspective how great our God is and how easy it is to become so wrapped up in the day-to-days of life that we see miracles as common place, something we're used to and can depend on. Each day really is a gift. Each breath and each moment are not guaranteed to us.
So hug your babies a little tighter and remember just how precious and miraculous they are.
Monday, November 26, 2012
A Homemade Christmas
This year, in lieu of buying the kids more "stuff" - I know they'll get plenty of that from relatives - I'm planning on making their gifts. Yes, I'm adding this to my already busy schedule. I think I'm a glutton for punishment. haha!
But, I decided that I'm going to make Tony a car mat for his Hot Wheels. The boy loves cars, just like my husband. These are made on felt squares that can be taken apart for use on the road (or church, the doctor, wherever he may need to focus his attention to keep quiet and still) or placed all together for a large map. I think he'll like it.
For Auds, I'm going to make some tutus and dress up outfits. The girl loves dressing up and changing outfits. I've created her a dress up station in the playroom and will make stuff for Buddy as well - policeman vests, etc. I think it'll be a lot of fun.
I was just overwhelmed with the amount of consumerism there is. We went to get a gift for a friend's party and Auds had a meltdown in the toy aisle over every little thing. Creative marketing at it's best. Put it in a shiny package within arm's reach of preschooler so that said preschooler will grab and hug and fall in love with. Preschooler will then throw a fit in the middle of the store "forcing" parents to purchase item - that will likely soon be forgotten about. Of course, I'm that bad parent who said "no" and held her through the store as we quickly checked out and made our exit.
For Christmas gifts for friends this year I'm making chocolate dipped pretzels in personalized mugs. For the neighbors, they're getting candy. Reindeer noses, to be exact. We have 15 neighbors in our little cul-de-sac, so I wanted to do something thrifty. Last year I made cocoa mixes.
What are you doing for Christmas this year?
Another Reason I Love my Midwife
I got a call last night from my midwife concerning my ultrasound results. Calling at 6:00 on a Sunday evening NEVER happens with an OB, so I was a little worried, I'll admit.
She was calling to let me know that my results revealed that I have a septate uterus and asked if I knew of it my previous doctors had talked to me about it. I told her "no" and that I had no idea what it meant.
Here's the scoop:
Septate uterus is a freak abnormality that only occurs within about 5% of the population. When my body was forming, it tried to form two uteri. I don't have two sets of fallopian tubes or anything, but I do have two cavities within my uterus. A septate uterus typically causes infertility, high recurring miscarriages, and premature births - another reason in addition to the anemia as to why T was early.
She's not too concerned as the baby looks great and I've had two previous successful pregnancies after our first miscarriage. The only worry is that I may not make it to term, which in our state is a must if you want to deliver out of hospital. If that happens, she will be my doula.
So, I've really got to be on my game with my diet and keeping healthy so I can try to make it to term. It's a toss up as to if I will since I have one term baby and one preemie baby, but either way, my water will break because of the septate uterus.
In Jesus' name, I'll be able to make it to at least 37 weeks!
What worries me is that neither of my previous doctors ever mentioned anything about it. And now that I've been told what it is, I can definitely see it on the ultrasound, so it should have been mentioned. Regardless, I am thankful that I know about it now and can be on the look out.
But, baby is doing well and is growing in my left uterus.
She was calling to let me know that my results revealed that I have a septate uterus and asked if I knew of it my previous doctors had talked to me about it. I told her "no" and that I had no idea what it meant.
Here's the scoop:
Septate uterus is a freak abnormality that only occurs within about 5% of the population. When my body was forming, it tried to form two uteri. I don't have two sets of fallopian tubes or anything, but I do have two cavities within my uterus. A septate uterus typically causes infertility, high recurring miscarriages, and premature births - another reason in addition to the anemia as to why T was early.
She's not too concerned as the baby looks great and I've had two previous successful pregnancies after our first miscarriage. The only worry is that I may not make it to term, which in our state is a must if you want to deliver out of hospital. If that happens, she will be my doula.
So, I've really got to be on my game with my diet and keeping healthy so I can try to make it to term. It's a toss up as to if I will since I have one term baby and one preemie baby, but either way, my water will break because of the septate uterus.
In Jesus' name, I'll be able to make it to at least 37 weeks!
What worries me is that neither of my previous doctors ever mentioned anything about it. And now that I've been told what it is, I can definitely see it on the ultrasound, so it should have been mentioned. Regardless, I am thankful that I know about it now and can be on the look out.
But, baby is doing well and is growing in my left uterus.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Why I am Thankful
I'll refer to this blog post here: http://www.stephanieleblancphotography.com/2012/11/giving-thanks-why-i-am-thankful/
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
It's the Most Busiest Time of the Year
Or, at least it is for photographers.
Consults and viewing and ordering parties to schedule and do.
Portraits to take, cull, and process.
Proofs to order.
Christmas cards to design.
Orders to process, package and deliver.
Paperwork to try to keep up to date on (hahaha!)
A studio to try and keep clean (hahaha!)
Personal Christmas cards to take portraits for, design, order, send out.
Kids to love and take care of.
Food to cook and a house to clean.
Music practice for the section youth rally being hosted at our church (my husband is the worship leader).
Christmas presents to attempt to figure out.
Bible studies to lead.
Minister's wives functions to attend.
Junior League meetings to attend.
Parties to throw at local homeless children's shelters.
Boy, it sure is busy being a PPPPW - professional photographer Pentecostal preacher's wife! haha!
But, it is such a blessing.
It really forces me to sit down and enjoy the time I have and the blessing I have. Sure, we're not Astors, but our needs are being met. Our house may not be The Breakers, but it keeps us warm and gives us enough room to live our lives. My clothes may not fit the best at the moment (I had lost a lot of weight prior to the baby) and I may feel like doody, but I'm growing another miracle.
So, I've been making sure that my children feel as blessed as I do. I wake them up each day with a kiss and a hug and sing "This is the Day." I've been feeling so bad lately that I've just kind of laid around and let them play as they want to. But, I haven't really cherished those moments. Instead, now we do easy activities so that I can still be involved, and not kill myself.
Homemade edible playdough, letter activities (it's Thanksgiving themed, too, with "b" for butter and "t" for turkey), coloring, paper airplane flying, lego castle building, book reading, baby doll tending, lots of cooking, etc. It's been a lot more fun.
And last week was a whirlwind with all of my midwife and ultrasound appointments. I still have to go in for my blood work and my state-mandated OB appointment, but I'll get to those. lol.
The result of the ultrasound is.... one healthy little baby due June 17th with a heart beat of 166!
We didn't tell Auds anything until the ultrasound and we brought her so she could see. She was so excited! That's all she talks about now is the baby. She has decided that it is a girl. Honestly, Beau and I are kind of hoping so, too. I absolutely love my son. Don't get me wrong there. But he gets into sooooo much. He is the stereotype of what a boy is. Oodles of energy that never end. Gets into everything. Climbs on everything. Throws everything. Runs everywhere. He alone wears me out. A little girl to calm things back down again would be great. haha.
Auds was the most mild-tempered little one until Tony got mobile. He is such the instigator that he turned her from the sweet little girl tending her baby dolls to his number one partner in crime. I love it. It's adorable. It's hilarious. There is never a dull moment in this house. There is also never enough sleep.
I think it's so sweet that the baby is due the day after our 6th wedding anniversary. Auds was born 3 years to the day after my husband proposed. Tony was a surprise 4th anniversary present. And #3 might just come on our anniversary. God has a funny way of timing our children around important dates for us and reminding us of how important love really is. Awwwwww.
Consults and viewing and ordering parties to schedule and do.
Portraits to take, cull, and process.
Proofs to order.
Christmas cards to design.
Orders to process, package and deliver.
Paperwork to try to keep up to date on (hahaha!)
A studio to try and keep clean (hahaha!)
Personal Christmas cards to take portraits for, design, order, send out.
Kids to love and take care of.
Food to cook and a house to clean.
Music practice for the section youth rally being hosted at our church (my husband is the worship leader).
Christmas presents to attempt to figure out.
Bible studies to lead.
Minister's wives functions to attend.
Junior League meetings to attend.
Parties to throw at local homeless children's shelters.
Boy, it sure is busy being a PPPPW - professional photographer Pentecostal preacher's wife! haha!
But, it is such a blessing.
It really forces me to sit down and enjoy the time I have and the blessing I have. Sure, we're not Astors, but our needs are being met. Our house may not be The Breakers, but it keeps us warm and gives us enough room to live our lives. My clothes may not fit the best at the moment (I had lost a lot of weight prior to the baby) and I may feel like doody, but I'm growing another miracle.
So, I've been making sure that my children feel as blessed as I do. I wake them up each day with a kiss and a hug and sing "This is the Day." I've been feeling so bad lately that I've just kind of laid around and let them play as they want to. But, I haven't really cherished those moments. Instead, now we do easy activities so that I can still be involved, and not kill myself.
Homemade edible playdough, letter activities (it's Thanksgiving themed, too, with "b" for butter and "t" for turkey), coloring, paper airplane flying, lego castle building, book reading, baby doll tending, lots of cooking, etc. It's been a lot more fun.
And last week was a whirlwind with all of my midwife and ultrasound appointments. I still have to go in for my blood work and my state-mandated OB appointment, but I'll get to those. lol.
The result of the ultrasound is.... one healthy little baby due June 17th with a heart beat of 166!
We didn't tell Auds anything until the ultrasound and we brought her so she could see. She was so excited! That's all she talks about now is the baby. She has decided that it is a girl. Honestly, Beau and I are kind of hoping so, too. I absolutely love my son. Don't get me wrong there. But he gets into sooooo much. He is the stereotype of what a boy is. Oodles of energy that never end. Gets into everything. Climbs on everything. Throws everything. Runs everywhere. He alone wears me out. A little girl to calm things back down again would be great. haha.
Auds was the most mild-tempered little one until Tony got mobile. He is such the instigator that he turned her from the sweet little girl tending her baby dolls to his number one partner in crime. I love it. It's adorable. It's hilarious. There is never a dull moment in this house. There is also never enough sleep.
I think it's so sweet that the baby is due the day after our 6th wedding anniversary. Auds was born 3 years to the day after my husband proposed. Tony was a surprise 4th anniversary present. And #3 might just come on our anniversary. God has a funny way of timing our children around important dates for us and reminding us of how important love really is. Awwwwww.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
My First Midwife Appointment
I looove my midwives! I know it sounds horrible, but I feel so much more comfortable with them and their services than with either of my OBs with my other kids.
My primary midwife is actually my doula from T's birth. So, not only is she a friend, but we already have that special bond.
I also feel that they are much more knowledgeable than most doctors about having a normal birth. I'm not knocking doctors, I just feel that they are trained more in matters of a serious complication -which is good- but dont know much about such a natural process and event and preventative care.
My midwives were able to conclude from my medical history that I had pre-eclampsia with Auds because I wasn't getting enough protein in my diet. So, I'm on the Bradley diet to prevent that again. (my previous OB said it was a fluke and nothing could be done til it came back)
They also concluded that because I'm very anemic that my membranes were too weak causing my water to break so early with T and him being premature. (my OB also said it was a fluke) I'm on iron supplements to help boost it up.
My sickness is so bad that it's causing my blood pressure to be 88/52, which is crazy low. Instead of prescribing a pill, I'm taking alfalfa, which will help with the sickness as also boost my iron and vitamins A, C, and K.
This pregnancy is taking a totally preventative approach to make sure that previous complications don't happen again.
Now, because our state is so anti-midwife, I do have to go in for an ultrasound today as well as see an OB for my initially "diagnosis." Right now I'm just "amenorrhea" instead of pregnant. But there is one doctor who works very closely with my midwives, so I'm seeing him.
All in all, we're super excited about it all. The birth center is wonderful (planned home births aren't allowed just yet), and I'll be able to actually relax and eat and enjoy my labor.
My primary midwife is actually my doula from T's birth. So, not only is she a friend, but we already have that special bond.
I also feel that they are much more knowledgeable than most doctors about having a normal birth. I'm not knocking doctors, I just feel that they are trained more in matters of a serious complication -which is good- but dont know much about such a natural process and event and preventative care.
My midwives were able to conclude from my medical history that I had pre-eclampsia with Auds because I wasn't getting enough protein in my diet. So, I'm on the Bradley diet to prevent that again. (my previous OB said it was a fluke and nothing could be done til it came back)
They also concluded that because I'm very anemic that my membranes were too weak causing my water to break so early with T and him being premature. (my OB also said it was a fluke) I'm on iron supplements to help boost it up.
My sickness is so bad that it's causing my blood pressure to be 88/52, which is crazy low. Instead of prescribing a pill, I'm taking alfalfa, which will help with the sickness as also boost my iron and vitamins A, C, and K.
This pregnancy is taking a totally preventative approach to make sure that previous complications don't happen again.
Now, because our state is so anti-midwife, I do have to go in for an ultrasound today as well as see an OB for my initially "diagnosis." Right now I'm just "amenorrhea" instead of pregnant. But there is one doctor who works very closely with my midwives, so I'm seeing him.
All in all, we're super excited about it all. The birth center is wonderful (planned home births aren't allowed just yet), and I'll be able to actually relax and eat and enjoy my labor.
Friday, October 26, 2012
Reasons 100000000006-10000000010
That I love my husband.
Today we had play class for Tony and Auds, so we were out and about. My gas light came on and I was feeling so bad that I knew I couldn't handle the smell of the gas. So my hubby left work and met me at the gas station. Tony had fallen asleep and now Auds was needing to go tee-tee. He took Auds to the potty and came back with some plain chips and a water for me. Not the healthiest, but considering where we live and what our options are, it wasn't bad. He could have gotten a fried boudin ball covered in cheese. Boudin is Cajun sausage made the old fashioned way- with pig intestine casings, sometimes with blood (red boudin) or not (white boudin).
Anyway, he then proceeds to put Auds back in her seat, pump my gas and blow me a kiss so I didn't have to roll down the window. My hero.
At home, I start feeling worse and don't even feel like making or eating lunch. I was browsing pinterest while the kids watched movies and made general mayhem and came across a picture or a dish that Picky Pants found appealing. I sent him the image, thinking nothing of it.
On his way home, he picks up sausage stuffed tortellini (since Picky Pants is on a dairy strike), vodka sauce, and a cherry pie. Let me tell you, it was the one thing I've kept down and it was delicious.
I told Auds that she needs to marry someone exactly like her daddy when she grows up. And I meant every word.
Today we had play class for Tony and Auds, so we were out and about. My gas light came on and I was feeling so bad that I knew I couldn't handle the smell of the gas. So my hubby left work and met me at the gas station. Tony had fallen asleep and now Auds was needing to go tee-tee. He took Auds to the potty and came back with some plain chips and a water for me. Not the healthiest, but considering where we live and what our options are, it wasn't bad. He could have gotten a fried boudin ball covered in cheese. Boudin is Cajun sausage made the old fashioned way- with pig intestine casings, sometimes with blood (red boudin) or not (white boudin).
Anyway, he then proceeds to put Auds back in her seat, pump my gas and blow me a kiss so I didn't have to roll down the window. My hero.
At home, I start feeling worse and don't even feel like making or eating lunch. I was browsing pinterest while the kids watched movies and made general mayhem and came across a picture or a dish that Picky Pants found appealing. I sent him the image, thinking nothing of it.
On his way home, he picks up sausage stuffed tortellini (since Picky Pants is on a dairy strike), vodka sauce, and a cherry pie. Let me tell you, it was the one thing I've kept down and it was delicious.
I told Auds that she needs to marry someone exactly like her daddy when she grows up. And I meant every word.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Explaining Morning Sickness
This is how I could best explain morning sickness to my husband:
Today's fish fingers and custard? Salsa. Yup. I've had a jar and a half of salsa and Picky Pants approves. This is excellent considering it wasn't tolerating water this morning,
Today's fish fingers and custard? Salsa. Yup. I've had a jar and a half of salsa and Picky Pants approves. This is excellent considering it wasn't tolerating water this morning,
Saturday, October 20, 2012
Apparently It Shows...
Although I generally prefer to keep baby things under wraps to the general public, I have been getting a lot of guesses and inquiries. They all start out with "You look terrible!" Gee, warm this mama's heart! haha
Bless my husband, he knows I've been so exhausted that he let me sleep in until 9 - a rare, RARE occurrence in our house, and then I just woke up from a two hour nap. It's 2 in the afternoon. You know what, I don't even feel like I've napped. This baby is nuts already.
We've discovered that all things dairy, lunchmeat, apple juice, cereal and blackberries are on the big "NO" list. The baby does, however like Chinese food. I have been having random cravings, like olives and pie, alligator and pumpkin cake, but I haven't been giving in. Partially coz that would be super expensive. I would also get absolutely huge!
Auds still doesn't know. We're waiting until after my midwife appointment on November 6th to tell her. Still haven't actually thrown up yet, which is great for me. This walking-dead thing is new, though. I'm usually the one rearranging the house 50,00000 times while pregnant and cooking all the time. Now, I just want to sleep 24/7. If only.
The animals have figured it out. They actually knew before me. They're all super duper lovey and attentive. Cheeto lays in my lap in the studio. Sophie lays on me at night. Fitz barks and sniffs at my belly. It's just funny how they catch on.
Bless my husband, he knows I've been so exhausted that he let me sleep in until 9 - a rare, RARE occurrence in our house, and then I just woke up from a two hour nap. It's 2 in the afternoon. You know what, I don't even feel like I've napped. This baby is nuts already.
We've discovered that all things dairy, lunchmeat, apple juice, cereal and blackberries are on the big "NO" list. The baby does, however like Chinese food. I have been having random cravings, like olives and pie, alligator and pumpkin cake, but I haven't been giving in. Partially coz that would be super expensive. I would also get absolutely huge!
Auds still doesn't know. We're waiting until after my midwife appointment on November 6th to tell her. Still haven't actually thrown up yet, which is great for me. This walking-dead thing is new, though. I'm usually the one rearranging the house 50,00000 times while pregnant and cooking all the time. Now, I just want to sleep 24/7. If only.
The animals have figured it out. They actually knew before me. They're all super duper lovey and attentive. Cheeto lays in my lap in the studio. Sophie lays on me at night. Fitz barks and sniffs at my belly. It's just funny how they catch on.
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Holy, Exhaustion, Batman!
I forgot how sick and tired I get during pregnancy.
That's how I knew something was up. I was sick for days and couldn't shake it. Add that to my busy schedule and I am tres pooped.
Today alone I did all of the laundry, played with the kids, took care of the kids, made a backdrop, took promo pictures for Christmas minis, did social media on said minis, emails, phone calls, orders, post processing on images (I've got about 5 sessions in que from the past 2 weeks) that need to be finished before next week's sessions.
Tonight I'll be helping my husband teach a Bible study. Yesterday I had a 2 hour session and a client meeting and youth music practice. Tomorrow I've got to do more orders and process more images before youth service. Saturday I have a day off - YAY! - but I volunteered to work on the church Web site so it's not really a day off.
So far, baby hates gumbo and all things dairy. Chocolate is tolerated in large quantities and I fear will make my rear large as well.
But, I did make my appointment to see my midwife in a few weeks. Yay! She was my doula with T, so I'm glad that I'll get to have her care for the baby. The birthing center is about 2 blocks away from my husband's work, which is super convenient for him.
We're waiting to tell Auds and most everyone else until we hear the heartbeat and confirm that everything is okay. My bestie and a few select people know and that's about it. After the appointment, we'll be more open about it. I guess we'll announce to family at Thanksgiving.
The shock is starting to wear off and I'm starting to get excited - as excited as I can when all I want to do is sleep - about the baby coming.
In other news, check out how cute my oldest kid is:
That's how I knew something was up. I was sick for days and couldn't shake it. Add that to my busy schedule and I am tres pooped.
Today alone I did all of the laundry, played with the kids, took care of the kids, made a backdrop, took promo pictures for Christmas minis, did social media on said minis, emails, phone calls, orders, post processing on images (I've got about 5 sessions in que from the past 2 weeks) that need to be finished before next week's sessions.
Tonight I'll be helping my husband teach a Bible study. Yesterday I had a 2 hour session and a client meeting and youth music practice. Tomorrow I've got to do more orders and process more images before youth service. Saturday I have a day off - YAY! - but I volunteered to work on the church Web site so it's not really a day off.
So far, baby hates gumbo and all things dairy. Chocolate is tolerated in large quantities and I fear will make my rear large as well.
But, I did make my appointment to see my midwife in a few weeks. Yay! She was my doula with T, so I'm glad that I'll get to have her care for the baby. The birthing center is about 2 blocks away from my husband's work, which is super convenient for him.
We're waiting to tell Auds and most everyone else until we hear the heartbeat and confirm that everything is okay. My bestie and a few select people know and that's about it. After the appointment, we'll be more open about it. I guess we'll announce to family at Thanksgiving.
The shock is starting to wear off and I'm starting to get excited - as excited as I can when all I want to do is sleep - about the baby coming.
In other news, check out how cute my oldest kid is:
That's the promo shots and the backdrop mentioned above. Gosh, I love that girl! Oh, and I dressed her, which explains the lack of accessories. She promptly changed after this into something more flamboyant.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Well...
Looks like #3 is on it's way! It is a total shock to us, as we were trying to avoid for the time being. But I've been sick for a week and couldn't shake it. I knew something was up. I'll need some advice on how to manage two small ones with morning sickness. God obviously has a plan for our lives right now that are bigger than our own. :)
Monday, October 8, 2012
Annual Pumpkin Patch Trip
Ever since Auds' first fall, we've gone to the pumpkin patch. It is a necessity. The first two years we traveled back home to do it with my mothers since there is a great patch out there and I had some October weddings in the area. But, last year we found a really fun patch out here and that is now our place to go. It is just so much easier to not drive over 2 hours each way with two littles.
We had a blast! I swear it still feels like last year's trip was yesterday. The hubs and I had sooo much fun watching Auds and T run around. Makes me want a brood-full. Everyone I know either has a teeny squishy baby, is pregnant or is trying. Totally NOT helping the baby fever at.all!
Here are some pics of our voyage:
We had a blast! I swear it still feels like last year's trip was yesterday. The hubs and I had sooo much fun watching Auds and T run around. Makes me want a brood-full. Everyone I know either has a teeny squishy baby, is pregnant or is trying. Totally NOT helping the baby fever at.all!
Here are some pics of our voyage:
Auds getting our first two pumpkins
Tony checking one out...
And tasting it, in true Tony fashion
On the move!
This thing played peep eye. Tony LOVED it. His favorite game is peep eye.
Bunnies! These were so cool until T heard a "quack" and started yelling "duck!"
Checking some more pumpkins out.
A joint effort.
"I'm pulling the passengers, Mommy!"
Auds had to roll a pumpkin around.
T had to as well, naturally.
Checking out some more.
"I'm queen of the pumpkin mountain!"
Auds in the scarecrow.
"You put your head in here!"
Melt my heart.
Me and my angels.
Checking out the sites on the "trakor" ride.
They held hands when they thought we weren't looking. AWWWWW!
Cheese!
So somber.
"Dat?!" He was very concerned with the decorations in there.
"I'm driving the pumpkins to the car!"
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