Well, Kayle is definitely getting spoiled already. This week she started throwing tantrums where she would scream and arch her back and kick until we picked her up. If we weren't paying attention and looking right at her when she was babbling she'd tantrum. We had to laugh! Robin told me that if anybody deserves a child that tantrums, it is me...because I use to embarrass her when I was little and tantrumed. Mom would tell her "just ignore her Robin" and walk away from me at the store or park. Too funny.
Kayle has also found her feet this week and is very intrigued by them. She is in a routine going to her sitters each day. I drop her off in the morning and she smiles as soon as she sees Melody. That is an unbelievable feeling to know that your child is so well taken care of and happy during the day. Kayle also is eating very well right now. Not sure if she is having a growth spurt or what, but she is definitely changing every day.
Brett is in a routine and getting use to his new job. It is a physical job, yet very good for him. And we have added benefits of cheap fruits and veggies each week too. Saving money always makes me feel good. :)
I'm back in the swing of things with my work as well. So we are all in our routines and doing well.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Monday, August 17, 2009
Best sound ever....
Tonight I was playing with Kayle and blowing raspberries on her belly and she let out several loud giggles!!! That was the best sound I have ever heard. Full blown, care-free GIGGLES!! Loved it!! :)
Saturday, August 15, 2009
August 2009 Happenings...
The month of August has been busy so far. I took the first week of August off at work so that I could relax a few days and hang with friends. Also, I knew I would need some relaxation time after I completed the Tri for the Cure in Denver on August 2nd. Yes, Jennifer, my sister-in-law and I signed up for the triathlon last year and we were both unable to do it for different reasons. So we signed up again this year to finally complete our goal of finishing the triathlon. It was an amazing experience. I would definitely do it again...but I might train a little more next time. Brett and Kayle came to watch and I was able to give Kayle a big kiss just before I crossed the finish line. After the race Brett, Kayle and I headed up to the family cabin to spend some relaxing time in the mountains. We also took Kayle to see Dr. Albrecht, one of my doctors that helped us along our journey to have Kayle. He was excited to see her.
My college friend, Karyn, came out to visit and spend the weekend with us. So we got to hang out and do some fun things: inner tubing in Lyons, Beau Jo's pizza, shopping, New Belguim brewery, Sierra Trading Post outlet, cooking out, etc.
We also have some more good news...Brett was hired with Yancey's which is a food distributor in town. He will be working in the warehouse and is excited about starting that job on Monday.
I have started back to work as well. Kayle has been going to her new baby sitter already and seems to really enjoy them. We are blessed to have them in our lives to help us care for Kayle.
Kayle's latest news: She weighed in at 12.5 lbs (25%ile) and 24 1/2 in. (60%ile) at her 4 month check up. She is now eating cereal and actually swallowing it. We practiced feeding her cereal for a couple weeks before she learned how to swallow it. Yes, Brad...baby rice cereal...NOT Cornflakes...duh!! Kayle is starting to roll over but not consistently. No teeth yet. She has definitely found her voice and is a blabbermouth. She lays in bed in the morning and talks loudly to daddy until he wakes up. She is also able to stand up in her saucer chair that a couple of her nurses got her.
Her Grandma and Grandpa (Deanna and Jim) moved into their new house this weekend which is closer to us. Kayle is going to enjoy going to spend a day a week with them. And it will be perfect for Brett to drop her off on his way to work and pick her up on the way home. His work is less than 5 minutes from their new house.
That's about all on this end. We'll update more when we have more news.
My college friend, Karyn, came out to visit and spend the weekend with us. So we got to hang out and do some fun things: inner tubing in Lyons, Beau Jo's pizza, shopping, New Belguim brewery, Sierra Trading Post outlet, cooking out, etc.
We also have some more good news...Brett was hired with Yancey's which is a food distributor in town. He will be working in the warehouse and is excited about starting that job on Monday.
I have started back to work as well. Kayle has been going to her new baby sitter already and seems to really enjoy them. We are blessed to have them in our lives to help us care for Kayle.
Kayle's latest news: She weighed in at 12.5 lbs (25%ile) and 24 1/2 in. (60%ile) at her 4 month check up. She is now eating cereal and actually swallowing it. We practiced feeding her cereal for a couple weeks before she learned how to swallow it. Yes, Brad...baby rice cereal...NOT Cornflakes...duh!! Kayle is starting to roll over but not consistently. No teeth yet. She has definitely found her voice and is a blabbermouth. She lays in bed in the morning and talks loudly to daddy until he wakes up. She is also able to stand up in her saucer chair that a couple of her nurses got her.
Her Grandma and Grandpa (Deanna and Jim) moved into their new house this weekend which is closer to us. Kayle is going to enjoy going to spend a day a week with them. And it will be perfect for Brett to drop her off on his way to work and pick her up on the way home. His work is less than 5 minutes from their new house.
That's about all on this end. We'll update more when we have more news.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
July has been busy so far...
I can't believe how fast the summer is going by. It's crazy. We got back from Kentucky and we have been busy. Brett helped a friend out in a fireworks stand for a couple weeks. So we didn't see him much for those weeks. Kayle and I stayed busy cleaning house, visiting friends, going on outings, having her picture taken, etc. Kayle even finished her first 5K at the Race for the Cure on July 4th. That morning she also rolled over for the first time. And after the 5K we watched the Greeley Stampede 4th of July Parade which is the biggest 4th of July parade in the country. Seeing the many longhorn cattle strolling down the street to start the parade was amazing. This month we also went to Grand Junction to visit family and friends. It was great to see some of my close friends that we moved away from. While we were there we toured the wineries and went to Gateway, CO to go through the Gateway car museum. The guy that owns Discovery Channel owns the resort, museum and much of that little town in the middle of nowhere. It is beautiful there though.
When we returned from Grand Junction I got to go back to work so that I could earn some of my days back that I lost when I was in the hospital this year. The nice thing is that they have allowed me to bring Kayle when I need to. So she has gone to work with me several times already. Brett has been busy taking out our porch and the old cement pad...because we are having a new cement patio pad poured this week. There is always something to do.
We will update more in a few weeks.
When we returned from Grand Junction I got to go back to work so that I could earn some of my days back that I lost when I was in the hospital this year. The nice thing is that they have allowed me to bring Kayle when I need to. So she has gone to work with me several times already. Brett has been busy taking out our porch and the old cement pad...because we are having a new cement patio pad poured this week. There is always something to do.
We will update more in a few weeks.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Back home from a great trip
We made it back home to Colorado on Father's Day. Kayle was a great traveler and slept through the entire flight both directions. When we got off the train in Denver to get our luggage, Brett was there waiting. I had tears in my eyes when he took Kayle and gave her a big hug and kiss. Kayle was wearing a "Special Delivery" shirt on addressed to "Daddy...Brett G." It was really cute and had other sayings on it like "Handle with care", "Fragile", "Caution", "Open slowly". Auntie Robin and cousin Grace helped design and make it for Brett. Too cute.
Well, our time in Kentucky went really fast. I'm not sure where all the days went or what we did. While Brett was there the first week we went to several ball games of the kids, took Brody and Anna to Mammouth Cave, did some shopping, had a bonfire, he went golfing at Kenny Perry's course, and went to a minor league baseball game with the new Hot Rod's team in Bowling Green.
The rest of our time there, Kayle and I went to A LOT more ball games. In fact, we were able to be there to see Grace and Anna win their league championship. It was a memorable day!! They both played great! I can't tell you how many times I made the comment "That's my niece!" :)
We also were able to see Brody play several times. He even was given the gameball at one game. And he is a little slugger himself. They are too cute at that age!
Kayle also got LOTS of attention from her cousins, Grace, Anna, and Brody. They were all so gentle and wonderful care takers with her. Grace enjoyed holding her whenever she could. Anna read books to her. Brody sang her to sleep. It was great to see their interactions. And Grandma, Grandpa, and Auntie Robin loved having their time with Kayle as well. Oh, and let's not forget that Kayle's Great- Grandma Melva was there the entire time as well. Grandma Melva was able to hold and feed Kayle also on several occassions.
Kayle also tasted her first Jimmy Diemer's ice cream while we were back there, ride on Bucky with me, swam in the pool, and took lots of golf cart rides. She continues to LOVE the outdoors.
Our aunt, uncle, and cousins from Tennessee came up one day also so we could see them. We celebrated Uncle Frank's 70th birthday.
The day we left, our family from Iowa all came down...so we did not get to see them. But we did Skype them so they could see Kayle while they were there.
In those 3 weeks we were in Kentucky, Kayle sure changed. She put on weight and looks bigger. She is smiling, cooing and talking to us, sleeping through the night, yelling and crying when she is mad, and has fat rolls on her legs now.
Since we have gotten home from KY, Kayle has gotten the coordination to keep her thumb or hand in her mouth, grasp objects, smile real big, and she even giggled today for the first time. We estimate that she weighs about 12 pounds now.
We will update more later.
Well, our time in Kentucky went really fast. I'm not sure where all the days went or what we did. While Brett was there the first week we went to several ball games of the kids, took Brody and Anna to Mammouth Cave, did some shopping, had a bonfire, he went golfing at Kenny Perry's course, and went to a minor league baseball game with the new Hot Rod's team in Bowling Green.
The rest of our time there, Kayle and I went to A LOT more ball games. In fact, we were able to be there to see Grace and Anna win their league championship. It was a memorable day!! They both played great! I can't tell you how many times I made the comment "That's my niece!" :)
We also were able to see Brody play several times. He even was given the gameball at one game. And he is a little slugger himself. They are too cute at that age!
Kayle also got LOTS of attention from her cousins, Grace, Anna, and Brody. They were all so gentle and wonderful care takers with her. Grace enjoyed holding her whenever she could. Anna read books to her. Brody sang her to sleep. It was great to see their interactions. And Grandma, Grandpa, and Auntie Robin loved having their time with Kayle as well. Oh, and let's not forget that Kayle's Great- Grandma Melva was there the entire time as well. Grandma Melva was able to hold and feed Kayle also on several occassions.
Kayle also tasted her first Jimmy Diemer's ice cream while we were back there, ride on Bucky with me, swam in the pool, and took lots of golf cart rides. She continues to LOVE the outdoors.
Our aunt, uncle, and cousins from Tennessee came up one day also so we could see them. We celebrated Uncle Frank's 70th birthday.
The day we left, our family from Iowa all came down...so we did not get to see them. But we did Skype them so they could see Kayle while they were there.
In those 3 weeks we were in Kentucky, Kayle sure changed. She put on weight and looks bigger. She is smiling, cooing and talking to us, sleeping through the night, yelling and crying when she is mad, and has fat rolls on her legs now.
Since we have gotten home from KY, Kayle has gotten the coordination to keep her thumb or hand in her mouth, grasp objects, smile real big, and she even giggled today for the first time. We estimate that she weighs about 12 pounds now.
We will update more later.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Heading to Kentucky
We are packing up and getting ready to head to the airport to Kentucky today. This will be our first family trip and McKayle's first plane trip. We all got a good nights sleep though as she slept from 9:30pm til 3:00am. We are excited that Kayle is going to get to see her other cousins, aunt, uncle, grandparents, and great-grandma while we are back there. My aunts, uncle and cousins will also be there at some point I'm sure. So it will be good family time.
I know that Kayle is going to love the swimming pool, so we will have lots of good pictures in the pool as well as with the animals and family when we get back. Until then, here are a few pictures of her recently.
An update on Kayle's growth...she had her 2 month well-check on May 20th. She weighed 9 lbs, 2 oz. and was 22 inches long. She made it to the growth chart finally. :) Her weight was at the 23rd percentile and her height was at the 50th percentile. So she is doing great. The only challenges she had being a month premature was that she never took to nursing due to weak sucking muscles and she spits up often due to weak abdominal muscles that don't hold the milk down. But she is not upset or fussy with any of that and is gaining weight, so the doctor was happy with her progress.
We are officially on summer vacation now. :) We will keep you posted on our happenings.
I know that Kayle is going to love the swimming pool, so we will have lots of good pictures in the pool as well as with the animals and family when we get back. Until then, here are a few pictures of her recently.
An update on Kayle's growth...she had her 2 month well-check on May 20th. She weighed 9 lbs, 2 oz. and was 22 inches long. She made it to the growth chart finally. :) Her weight was at the 23rd percentile and her height was at the 50th percentile. So she is doing great. The only challenges she had being a month premature was that she never took to nursing due to weak sucking muscles and she spits up often due to weak abdominal muscles that don't hold the milk down. But she is not upset or fussy with any of that and is gaining weight, so the doctor was happy with her progress.
We are officially on summer vacation now. :) We will keep you posted on our happenings.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
8 weeks old
McKayle is 8 weeks old today. She had her 2 month wellness check up today. All is well and she is doing great. She now weighs 9 lbs, 2 oz. which is the 23%ile on the growth chart. And she is 22 inches long now which is 50th%ile. So she is growing and putting on weight. She is very strong and able to lift her head and turn it when on her belly. She is starting to smile, does lots of cooing and grunting/making noises. My favorite is her cackle that is like a laugh. She is also turning her head to look for daddy and I when she hears our voices. She is sure changing every day. It is just amazing.
Until next update...
Until next update...
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
My 1st Mother's Day
Last Sunday was my first official Mother's Day. I spent a lot of time holding Kayle and snuggling with her. That was such a blessing in itself. She is such a gift in our lives now. We also went out to brunch with Brett's parents and grandparents which was nice. We dressed Kayle in a really cute dress and handmade sweater that had been given to us as gifts...but we didn't make it out of her nursery before she wet all over it. So we had to change into another cute pant outfit that had been given as a gift. No matter what she is wearing, she is just getting more adorable every day.
We have not had to take her in to get weighed lately, but we estimate that she weighs in the upper 8 lb or 9 lb range. She seems so big to us, yet others comment on how small she is. But she seems to be getting much longer and starting to fill out.
I have been back to work almost 2 weeks now. I admit that I am exhausted and do not have my normal energy back...but I only have a couple more weeks before summer vacation.
We have not had to take her in to get weighed lately, but we estimate that she weighs in the upper 8 lb or 9 lb range. She seems so big to us, yet others comment on how small she is. But she seems to be getting much longer and starting to fill out.
I have been back to work almost 2 weeks now. I admit that I am exhausted and do not have my normal energy back...but I only have a couple more weeks before summer vacation.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
6 weeks old
Little Miss McKayle was 6 weeks old yesterday and she is sure growing and changing everyday. I have gone back to work...started last Friday, May 1st. And Brett is staying home and taking care of Kayle. So she is enjoying bonding with her daddy. I am adjusting to being back but still getting physically exhausted by the afternoon. Probably went back to work too soon, but I'm back now and counting down the days til I'm done...22 calendar days til summer. :)
Yesterday was 80 degrees here with sunny blue skies. It was gorgeous. So our family took a walk down the road after dinner last night. We met several neighbors when we were out which was nice. Babies seem to attract people. It's funny. But we enjoy it because we get to show off our precious little girl.
Many of you ask if Kayle is sleeping through the night...the answer is no. But she does seem to be getting better and stretching her wake times out. But it is not consistent. I would say last night was probably her best night yet...but I don't know when she actually went to sleep because dad was up with her. I went to bed at 10:15pm and woke up with her at 2:30am and at 6:00am. So I thought that was great. And she continues to eat well and gain weight. We have not taken her in to check her weight, but she has outgrown several outfits and we are in size 1 diapers now which are a little big, but the newborn diapers were too small. I would say she has to be over 8 lbs by now. And her little chubby cheeks are filling out. They get kissed a lot. :)
That's all for now. Update more later.
Yesterday was 80 degrees here with sunny blue skies. It was gorgeous. So our family took a walk down the road after dinner last night. We met several neighbors when we were out which was nice. Babies seem to attract people. It's funny. But we enjoy it because we get to show off our precious little girl.
Many of you ask if Kayle is sleeping through the night...the answer is no. But she does seem to be getting better and stretching her wake times out. But it is not consistent. I would say last night was probably her best night yet...but I don't know when she actually went to sleep because dad was up with her. I went to bed at 10:15pm and woke up with her at 2:30am and at 6:00am. So I thought that was great. And she continues to eat well and gain weight. We have not taken her in to check her weight, but she has outgrown several outfits and we are in size 1 diapers now which are a little big, but the newborn diapers were too small. I would say she has to be over 8 lbs by now. And her little chubby cheeks are filling out. They get kissed a lot. :)
That's all for now. Update more later.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Last weekend in April...
This weekend was a busy one. On Saturday, I went to the March of Dimes walk to support friends. We were lucky to not have to utilize the March of Dimes support, but it was a possibility throughout our pregnancy with McKayle. So we want to continue to support that cause. The weather was cold and wet, so Brett and McKayle did not come with us. And we ended up not completing the walk due to weather anyway. But we did walk around the park with Eric, Jen, and our nephew Jake. Then Brett and McKayle met us in town and we all went to breakfast. Saturday night late, Brett's uncle Rick from Wyoming came to stay with us. He got to see McKayle and then Sunday morning the whole family went out to breakfast. Sunday afternoon Brett's parents and grandparents came out to visit. McKayle's grandmother brought her some outfits she had from when Brett was little. She has already outgrown some of them, but they are cute. The blue outfit in the picture is 39+ years old from Holland. Too cute, but she won't fit in it for long. Brett also gave McKayle a bath while family was here. McKayle ended up wetting all over her grandmother. It was pretty funny. McKayle enjoys her baths though.
I am counting my days til I head back to work on May 1st...4 more days. And this week we plan to visit some friends, go to some appointments, and rest up. I know I'm going to have a hard time leaving McKayle, but I am glad that Brett will be able to watch her. McKayle enjoys her time with her Daddy.
I am counting my days til I head back to work on May 1st...4 more days. And this week we plan to visit some friends, go to some appointments, and rest up. I know I'm going to have a hard time leaving McKayle, but I am glad that Brett will be able to watch her. McKayle enjoys her time with her Daddy.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
McKayle is 4 weeks old today
Today McKayle is 4 weeks old. Hard to believe it has already been 4 weeks since she was born. Yesterday was her actual due date. We are so happy that she is here with us and doing so well. Today I took her to weigh in and she has gained again. Kayle weighed in at a whopping 7 lbs, 2 oz. Brett and I knew that she was gaining because she feels heavier, has fat rolls on her legs and neck and is just filling out. To others, she is often described as being "so little." Yet we think she is getting much bigger. :) It's all perspective, huh?
While Kayle and I were in Ft. Collins today, we stopped by to see some of our nurses. They were so excited to see both of us. We all miss seeing each other. Strange how you can become so close to the nurses that care for you for 68 days.
Here are a few more pictures of Kayle at 4 weeks old...so you can see for yourself how much she is changing. :) We are proud parents. She can't get enough kisses.
While Kayle and I were in Ft. Collins today, we stopped by to see some of our nurses. They were so excited to see both of us. We all miss seeing each other. Strange how you can become so close to the nurses that care for you for 68 days.
Here are a few more pictures of Kayle at 4 weeks old...so you can see for yourself how much she is changing. :) We are proud parents. She can't get enough kisses.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Weigh in day...
Kayle went to the doctor for a weigh in again...Kayle is up to 6 lbs, 9 ozs. and doing well. She she is gaining weight and keeping it on now. I knew that she was because she is filling out and has some fat wrinkles and rolls that I notice and have to clean in now. :) She is still displaying some "premie behaviors" with her sucking weakness but is feeding fine on the bottle. So whatever we need to do to have her continue to gain weight. That makes me happy.
My energy level is slowly getting a little better. I'm, by no means, back to normal energy levels, but I am able to "function" better. I'm able to get ready for appts. and go to appts. or shop or go for short walks. I still require my daily naps in the evening, but each day it is getting a little better.
My energy level is slowly getting a little better. I'm, by no means, back to normal energy levels, but I am able to "function" better. I'm able to get ready for appts. and go to appts. or shop or go for short walks. I still require my daily naps in the evening, but each day it is getting a little better.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Kayle's 1st Easter
Today Kayle celebrated her 1st Easter. She was able to see her grandparents in Kentucky on Skype this morning. It is such an awesome thing to be able to see them whenever we want...and vise versa I think. :)
Then we headed over to Brett's brother's house for Easter lunch with his family...Kayle's cousins, aunt, uncle, grandparents, and great grandparents. The outing wore me out once again, so we came home and I took a nice nap. Pretty low key.
Then we headed over to Brett's brother's house for Easter lunch with his family...Kayle's cousins, aunt, uncle, grandparents, and great grandparents. The outing wore me out once again, so we came home and I took a nice nap. Pretty low key.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Friday events...
On Friday Kayle had a lunch date with some of her friends from her mommy's work. So she got to meet and hang out with several friends for a couple of hours. Kayle slept the whole time. But it was nice to get out and see friends. Mommy was tired when we got home, but decided to go on a walk with Brett and Kayle...still trying to build my energy levels back. Then I took a nice long nap. Still feeling tired today also, but went back to the store to finish my shopping that I was not able to complete earlier in the week.
Big news...Kayle's umbilical cord fell off on Friday when I was giving her a sponge bath before our outing. So now Kayle just has a belly button.
Tomorrow is Kayle's first Easter. We will be celebrating it at Brett's brother's family's house.
Big news...Kayle's umbilical cord fell off on Friday when I was giving her a sponge bath before our outing. So now Kayle just has a belly button.
Tomorrow is Kayle's first Easter. We will be celebrating it at Brett's brother's family's house.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Kayle is 2 weeks old already...
Two weeks ago Kayle was born. It is hard to believe that she is already 2 weeks old. She is changing every day and it is amazing to experience it with her. She should be back to her birthweight by now. Her next weight check isn't until next week though. Kayle also has her days and nights mixed up. She likes to sleep all day and be up most of the night wide awake.
Today she and I went for a short walk down our road. I want to try to work on getting my energy levels back. It was in the 60s, sunny, and windy...but nice to get out in the fresh air. She slept in her little pouch the entire time.
Here are some more pictures of Kayle at 2 weeks old...
Today she and I went for a short walk down our road. I want to try to work on getting my energy levels back. It was in the 60s, sunny, and windy...but nice to get out in the fresh air. She slept in her little pouch the entire time.
Here are some more pictures of Kayle at 2 weeks old...
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Kayle is still gaining weight...
Today Kayle had another doctor appointment to check her weight. She is up to 5 lbs, 15 oz. ... so not quite back to her birthweight yet, but getting closer. She will go back for another weight check next week also. They also described her as still "acting like a premie baby" due to her not having the strength to nurse. But she is acting more like a full-term baby this week than she did last week. So we are getting there. She has already changed in just a week.
Tomorrow night she will be 2 weeks old. Hard to believe already. Brett and I just can't get enough of her and comment all the time on how she is such an easy, laid back, strong little girl. She is our little miracle.
Today was a long day due to our two appointments, so we are all resting tonight. Another night ahead of us...Kayle appears to have her days and nights mixed up right now and does not settle down to sleep until after midnight.
More to come later...
Tomorrow night she will be 2 weeks old. Hard to believe already. Brett and I just can't get enough of her and comment all the time on how she is such an easy, laid back, strong little girl. She is our little miracle.
Today was a long day due to our two appointments, so we are all resting tonight. Another night ahead of us...Kayle appears to have her days and nights mixed up right now and does not settle down to sleep until after midnight.
More to come later...
Monday, April 6, 2009
Mommy took an outing...
Today I decided that I desparately needed a haircut and some groceries. So I went by myself to get a haircut and go to Walmart. This sounds pathetic, but just to give you all some idea of how pitifully weak I am...I showered, went and sat in a chair while my hair was cut, and walked around at Walmart. Within 20 minutes at Walmart, I was exhausted and ended up not even getting everything on my list because I didn't want to walk across the store anymore b/c I was weak, had a headache and was lightheaded. Yeah, I thought I was cool to be able to drive again though after 3 months. What a weird feeling all around. I was happy to get home, hug and kiss my little girl, and then go and take a nap. So let's just say that I'm not back to feeling normal yet. But it was a first step in the right direction. A haircut after 9 months helped me feel better.
Kayle has had another typical day for her...sleepy in the a.m. and afternoon, is woken up to eat every 2-3 hours, and was up much of last night ready to play. She is just adorable though.
Tomorrow we have two doctor appts. for her to weigh in, etc. We'll give you the update tomorrow evening.
Kayle has had another typical day for her...sleepy in the a.m. and afternoon, is woken up to eat every 2-3 hours, and was up much of last night ready to play. She is just adorable though.
Tomorrow we have two doctor appts. for her to weigh in, etc. We'll give you the update tomorrow evening.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Still gaining and adjusting...
Kayle gained another 3 oz. at her weigh in on Friday. So she is on track to be back to her birth weight by 2 weeks old. She is eating a lot more and more consistently, yet still likes to sleep most of the day. Her evenings and nights she is often wide awake and mornings she is sluggish and sleepy. Funny how that is exactly how she was in the womb.
Brett and I enjoy snuggling, kissing, and holding her after her. She is feeding every 2-3 hours and still needs to be woke up most of the time. So she has us on a tight schedule right now. :)
My energy levels are still not up to normal. I find myself conserving energy so that I have the energy I need to go to appointments and be up with friends visiting, etc.
We have another weight check and doctor appointment on Tuesday.
Sorry I have not called friends back or been in contact much the last week. It's been hectic and tiring. So I am trying to adjust. Please don't take it personal. I'll get back to being in better contact in another week or so.
Until next update...
Shawna
Brett and I enjoy snuggling, kissing, and holding her after her. She is feeding every 2-3 hours and still needs to be woke up most of the time. So she has us on a tight schedule right now. :)
My energy levels are still not up to normal. I find myself conserving energy so that I have the energy I need to go to appointments and be up with friends visiting, etc.
We have another weight check and doctor appointment on Tuesday.
Sorry I have not called friends back or been in contact much the last week. It's been hectic and tiring. So I am trying to adjust. Please don't take it personal. I'll get back to being in better contact in another week or so.
Until next update...
Shawna
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
McKayle gained some weight...
Today we had another doctor appointment to check McKayle's weight and SHE GAINED 2 oz. which was great. The doctors want to see her gain at least 1 oz. per day right now. So she exceeded that which made us very happy! We are heading in the right direction. Our next weigh in is Friday.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
McKayle made it home...
Tonight McKayle is already 6 days old. She is amazing, strong, laid back, and just plain adorable...if we do say so ourselves. :) We have been adjusting to parenthood and trying to get to know her. We had an appointment yesterday and she had jaundice pretty bad, so we were sent to the lab for labwork. Her billirubin levels came back not too bad considering her weight and days old. So she is not going to have to be under lights or receive treatment for it. But her weight dropped from when we left the hospital again. So we are being closely monitored for her weight. We had a doctor appointment today and she was able to gain a half an ounce in 24 hours. We are waking her up to feed every 2-3 hours.
Kayle has had a busy first few days home. All of her grandparents have been out to see her, along with other family and friends. So she is completely exhausted. She and I both took several naps this afternoon to try to catch up on sleep. My parents have been here for the last couple of weeks waiting for her arrival. They left this afternoon and headed back towards Kentucky. They were a huge help with giving us breaks and extra time to rest by picking up, taking feeding shifts, cooking. etc. Now that they are gone, Brett and I are working on falling into a routine.
Brett and I often can be caught just looking at Kayle with tears in our eyes because we are so proud of her and so happy to be blessed with our little miracle.
As far as the details of her arrival...let's just say it was a long day with lots of unexpected turns...and after the delivery we were so happy. It all felt surreal. Lots of happy tears were shed. The delivery day had its difficult moments, but overall was the easiest part of the pregnancy. Kayle was so WELL WORTH THE STRUGGLE AND WAIT!!!
We'll attach more pictures for you all to see and will update the blog when we can. Thanks to all of the congratulatory e-mails, cards, flowers, gifts, and prayers. We truly appreciate all of your caring and support.
Much love,
Brett and Shawna
Kayle has had a busy first few days home. All of her grandparents have been out to see her, along with other family and friends. So she is completely exhausted. She and I both took several naps this afternoon to try to catch up on sleep. My parents have been here for the last couple of weeks waiting for her arrival. They left this afternoon and headed back towards Kentucky. They were a huge help with giving us breaks and extra time to rest by picking up, taking feeding shifts, cooking. etc. Now that they are gone, Brett and I are working on falling into a routine.
Brett and I often can be caught just looking at Kayle with tears in our eyes because we are so proud of her and so happy to be blessed with our little miracle.
As far as the details of her arrival...let's just say it was a long day with lots of unexpected turns...and after the delivery we were so happy. It all felt surreal. Lots of happy tears were shed. The delivery day had its difficult moments, but overall was the easiest part of the pregnancy. Kayle was so WELL WORTH THE STRUGGLE AND WAIT!!!
We'll attach more pictures for you all to see and will update the blog when we can. Thanks to all of the congratulatory e-mails, cards, flowers, gifts, and prayers. We truly appreciate all of your caring and support.
Much love,
Brett and Shawna
Thursday, March 26, 2009
McKayle is here
McKayle was born on Wed. March 25 at 9:16 p.m. McKayle weighed 6.1 lbs and 19.25 inches long. McKayle will now be celebrating her cousin Bren in Iawa. Shawna is doing good, just tired. McKayle spent about 10hrs in nicu. She did so well she is now under our care in womans care.
Enough talking time to put picts.
Thank You for all of your support
Brett & Shawna and McKayle Deanna Gilbert
Enough talking time to put picts.
Thank You for all of your support
Brett & Shawna and McKayle Deanna Gilbert
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
will today be D day?
i'm up early this morning, excited that we finally made it to today. i will head over to birthing center in just over an hour. amniocentesis is scheduled for 9am. should have those results by 11am todetermine if we will be inducing. my gut tells me she is ready to join us. thanks to all the good luck calls and messages. it will be an exciting day.
if kayle does come today she will have the same birthday as my cousin, bryn. :)
we will keep you posted of our progress/plans as the day progresses. we've got afew contact people thatwill spread the word to family an friends.
thanks for all the prayers and thoughts today!
love,
shawna
if kayle does come today she will have the same birthday as my cousin, bryn. :)
we will keep you posted of our progress/plans as the day progresses. we've got afew contact people thatwill spread the word to family an friends.
thanks for all the prayers and thoughts today!
love,
shawna
Monday, March 23, 2009
Kayle cried wolf...
last night contractions picked up in intensity and frequency...so we went back to labor and delivery. thought she might join us, but doc checked us out, gave some extra meds and we calmed down again. brett stayed up here with me just in case, but once again i'm back in "my" room on women's care unit this morning. just tired and fighting a headache and "normal" contractions for me. 63 days here...and hopefully kayle will join us in just 2 more days!? doctor's response was "if you make it that far."
we'll have to wait and see what the next couple dys and nights bring us. we'll keep you posted.
shawna
we'll have to wait and see what the next couple dys and nights bring us. we'll keep you posted.
shawna
Friday, March 20, 2009
day 60 in hospital
who would have hought we would have made it this far? but we have. now our countdown starts in the other direction. five more days til we induce or i get out of here. same plan in place. nothing new going on this week. in fact, the nurses report last night said...same crap, different day. i would agree. visitoors and calls keep it changing, but i can honestly say that i'm bored now and very ready to get out of here. probably b/c i can see the light at the end of the tunnel. but i wll endure for another 5 days til some change happens. it's all mental like my brother says. :)
we'll update more later.
we'll update more later.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
happy st. patty's day!
we are at 35 weeks today!! yea! who would have thought we would have made it ths far...but we hav surprised everyone. now i think she is quite comfortable where he is.
today we had another ultrasoud and my parents were able to be there to see her. she is changing so much. she already seems to have chunky cheeks, mass to her arms, wisps of hair, fat roll on back of her neck, and al her organs seem to be functioning well. kayle is definitely growing. her weight was estimated at 5 lbs, 15 ozs and 35 weeks, 5 days...so still developing well. she seems to have the hiccups all the time now. so hopefully she is doing lots of practice breathing. one more week til some change for us for sure.
until next update...
today we had another ultrasoud and my parents were able to be there to see her. she is changing so much. she already seems to have chunky cheeks, mass to her arms, wisps of hair, fat roll on back of her neck, and al her organs seem to be functioning well. kayle is definitely growing. her weight was estimated at 5 lbs, 15 ozs and 35 weeks, 5 days...so still developing well. she seems to have the hiccups all the time now. so hopefully she is doing lots of practice breathing. one more week til some change for us for sure.
until next update...
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Has it been "Ground Hogs Day"??
Today was another day to mark off the calendar. My nurse today asked if it was starting to feel like "Ground Hogs Day" the movie. Yep!! That would explain it. Feels like I can't get out of here some days. But today was a little better.
My medicine made me sick this morning, so that woke me up. :/ Then Brett brought Gus, our dog, up to visit today which was nice. It was good to snuggle with my bud, Gus. We all had lunch together (not hospital food) which was also nice. Then my brother and sister-in-laws and nephews came to visit with flowers and a St. Patrick's day collosal cookie. We watched the movie Dreamer together and I laughed at the boys.
My nurse took me on a wheelchair ride...on a new route so it changed the scenery a little. And I soaked up some sun rays for some Vitamin D. On the way back in past the nurses desk I talked to the head or charge nurse about organizing an "anti-partum patient" support group for us. I guess there are 4 of us "anti-partums" on the floor now...and it would be good to vent, talk, support and laugh with others that are going through it I think. She said she would work on that. I think it would be a good thing...so we'll see if anything comes of it. I also tell them that they need a massage therapist here for us. Boy, do I seem to have all the "suggestions" for them. You get a different perspective on things when you've been here this long. For the most part, they do a great job though. And the nurses continue to be saviors for my mental health. Tomorrow they are even having a potluck lunch for me because I'm sick of the hospital food. Sweet! :)
Mom and Dad left Iowa and are enroute to Colorado now. Still excited about Kayle coming. I just have to keep reminding all the grandparents that I don't have control over when she decides to come. She has a mind of her own. :) I was glad that mom and dad stopped in Iowa to see Grandma and the family first. Sounds like they are all doing well. I hear my cousin even got mom and dad signed up on Facebook. How hilarious is that!?! Mom always makes fun of us for doing it. Hee! Hee! Enough for now...
We will keep you posted if anything changes...but at this point I think Kayle is "going the distance." (Isn't that saying from "Field of Dreams"? Sometimes I crack myself up.)
Hugs to everyone!
My medicine made me sick this morning, so that woke me up. :/ Then Brett brought Gus, our dog, up to visit today which was nice. It was good to snuggle with my bud, Gus. We all had lunch together (not hospital food) which was also nice. Then my brother and sister-in-laws and nephews came to visit with flowers and a St. Patrick's day collosal cookie. We watched the movie Dreamer together and I laughed at the boys.
My nurse took me on a wheelchair ride...on a new route so it changed the scenery a little. And I soaked up some sun rays for some Vitamin D. On the way back in past the nurses desk I talked to the head or charge nurse about organizing an "anti-partum patient" support group for us. I guess there are 4 of us "anti-partums" on the floor now...and it would be good to vent, talk, support and laugh with others that are going through it I think. She said she would work on that. I think it would be a good thing...so we'll see if anything comes of it. I also tell them that they need a massage therapist here for us. Boy, do I seem to have all the "suggestions" for them. You get a different perspective on things when you've been here this long. For the most part, they do a great job though. And the nurses continue to be saviors for my mental health. Tomorrow they are even having a potluck lunch for me because I'm sick of the hospital food. Sweet! :)
Mom and Dad left Iowa and are enroute to Colorado now. Still excited about Kayle coming. I just have to keep reminding all the grandparents that I don't have control over when she decides to come. She has a mind of her own. :) I was glad that mom and dad stopped in Iowa to see Grandma and the family first. Sounds like they are all doing well. I hear my cousin even got mom and dad signed up on Facebook. How hilarious is that!?! Mom always makes fun of us for doing it. Hee! Hee! Enough for now...
We will keep you posted if anything changes...but at this point I think Kayle is "going the distance." (Isn't that saying from "Field of Dreams"? Sometimes I crack myself up.)
Hugs to everyone!
Friday, March 13, 2009
Weekly update
Sorry I haven't posted much this week. Just putting my days in incubating and marking them off the calendar. All is fine. No new news on Kayle and I. We are both doing fine. My primary doctor confirmed the plan for March 25th today, but reiterated that if her lungs are NOT developed he will NOT induce. So it is not a for sure thing that she will be born then. I may have to wait longer. How crazy would that be for her to go full term after all of this hospital stay stuff. ?? It wouldn't surprise me at this point. So I need to (mentally) not count down til March 25th because it could be longer.
My mom and dad drove to Iowa yesterday to visit my aunt, cousins, and grandma. Mom called a couple times in route asking if I was in labor or if they needed to change directions and head this way. I have to laugh at how excited and anxious the grandmothers are becoming. Brett's mom is getting excited too. Mom and Dad will probably arrive Sunday night or Monday though.
Brett has gone to work with a friend a few days this week to help out. I think he really likes it. Tomorrow he is bringing Gus, one of our dogs, up to visit me again. It will be good to see them both.
That's about it from this end. Hope you all are doing well.
Love,
Shawna
My mom and dad drove to Iowa yesterday to visit my aunt, cousins, and grandma. Mom called a couple times in route asking if I was in labor or if they needed to change directions and head this way. I have to laugh at how excited and anxious the grandmothers are becoming. Brett's mom is getting excited too. Mom and Dad will probably arrive Sunday night or Monday though.
Brett has gone to work with a friend a few days this week to help out. I think he really likes it. Tomorrow he is bringing Gus, one of our dogs, up to visit me again. It will be good to see them both.
That's about it from this end. Hope you all are doing well.
Love,
Shawna
Thursday, March 12, 2009
quick note
don't panic or get too excited yet. haven't updated b/c internet has been down. all okay here. just waiting for these next couple weeks to go by. will write more later. kayle is doing fine.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
weekend happenings...
saturday was a little dramatic...one dr. tried to discharge me but my primary dr. got involved d vetod that idea quickly. then a plan was established to do an amniocentesis on march 25th to check lung development. if kayle's lungs are good, thet will pull stitches and induce. so if kayle decides to let dr. be in control her birthday may be the 25th...my cousin, bryn's birthday. but for some reason i cn see kayle having a mind of her own and come earlier. then sat. afternoon/evening i started to have more painful contractions...but they calmed down.
brett, eric, jen, and nephews came up and we watched a movie and had popcorn. nice distraction.
sunday i had a quiet morning. then had lunch with the nurses in their break room. i'm just one of the crew. took a nap from losing an hour of sleep and the excitement. then the nurses came a danced and sang at the end of my bed again. they were so loud we got a complaint about the noise...oops. they are too funny.
brett stayed home and worked on cleaning the house for me...doing my "nesting" for me. i have statred reading the twilight series due to it continually coming highly recommended by friends, nurses, and doctors.
today was my nieces birthday so talked to her to wish her a happy birthday. i didn't get a card even off to her but told her i'm working on bringing her a cousin. she said that was more than enough. what a grown-up at only 9.
nurses trying to play tricks on me tonight again. never a dull moment.
thanks to all of you for the e-mails and phone calls. it's nice to hear from you.
we are definitely in the home strerch now. most likely on a couple more weeks...til kayle arrives.
brett, eric, jen, and nephews came up and we watched a movie and had popcorn. nice distraction.
sunday i had a quiet morning. then had lunch with the nurses in their break room. i'm just one of the crew. took a nap from losing an hour of sleep and the excitement. then the nurses came a danced and sang at the end of my bed again. they were so loud we got a complaint about the noise...oops. they are too funny.
brett stayed home and worked on cleaning the house for me...doing my "nesting" for me. i have statred reading the twilight series due to it continually coming highly recommended by friends, nurses, and doctors.
today was my nieces birthday so talked to her to wish her a happy birthday. i didn't get a card even off to her but told her i'm working on bringing her a cousin. she said that was more than enough. what a grown-up at only 9.
nurses trying to play tricks on me tonight again. never a dull moment.
thanks to all of you for the e-mails and phone calls. it's nice to hear from you.
we are definitely in the home strerch now. most likely on a couple more weeks...til kayle arrives.
Friday, March 6, 2009
sleepy Kayle...ultrasound check
the nst monitoring this morning showed kayle really flat w/ no accellertions. so dr. ordered an ultrasound to check her. she woke up and did fine passing her tests. good fine/gross motor movement, good strong heartbeat, good breathing practice, good fluid levels. so they chalked it up to her being in a deep sleep. they'll monitor her again this afternoon. if she continued to not accellerate, dr. would consider taking her. but we are okay for now i think. she measured 34 weeks, 2 days (almost a week ahead) and 4 lbs. 15 ozs. (almost 5 lbs.). so she continues to grow.
i'm doing ok today. going for a ride outside later to soak up some sun.
brett is hanging with his brother, jen and the boys today. update more later...
i'm doing ok today. going for a ride outside later to soak up some sun.
brett is hanging with his brother, jen and the boys today. update more later...
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
good day...
today has been a good day. monday they ran ekg and ct scan due to chest pains, but all came back fine. had nausea yesterday morning due to meds, but recovered by afternoon. brett came up last night and we ordered dinner out. i'm getting tired of hospital food. but i'm a survivor and this too shall pass.
brett went to work with a friend today and seemed excited about that. another co-worker of his got the official lay off call today, so brett is worried about gtting his own call. it will all work out though.
kayle is oing fin and passing all her tests. dr. scheduled to take my stitches out on march 24th and take me off meds. another growth estimate ultraound is scheduled for march 17th. starting to have some break through contractions but some of it is normal. so kayle is not coming today...not sure when she will decide to join us. she seems pretty comfortable where she is righ now. she is making it hard for mom and dad to "plan" when they will come out to see her. ?? kayle is in control on this one.
i hear it is 75 degrees out today, so i'm heading out for a ride in a while to get some sun rays. update more later...
brett went to work with a friend today and seemed excited about that. another co-worker of his got the official lay off call today, so brett is worried about gtting his own call. it will all work out though.
kayle is oing fin and passing all her tests. dr. scheduled to take my stitches out on march 24th and take me off meds. another growth estimate ultraound is scheduled for march 17th. starting to have some break through contractions but some of it is normal. so kayle is not coming today...not sure when she will decide to join us. she seems pretty comfortable where she is righ now. she is making it hard for mom and dad to "plan" when they will come out to see her. ?? kayle is in control on this one.
i hear it is 75 degrees out today, so i'm heading out for a ride in a while to get some sun rays. update more later...
Monday, March 2, 2009
made it to march...
well, it is march 2n and we are still here...day 42 in the hospital. i had a good couple of days, but today has been another adventure. they are running tests to check my heart and lungs for bloodclots or other problems due to me having chest pains since last night. i think it is more to rule the bad stuff out b/c of my high risks . also, feeling like crap today. so will rest/nap today. but kayle is doing fine. she is a trooper. just hanging out doing her cartwheels and running from the nurses.
well, based on my brother's aalogy of this adventure being a mental game, like a triathalon...i have tansitioned from the bike to the run now. we are on our last leg of this race...and i'm definitely wearing down. so i am looking for a theme song to motivate me. if you have any ideas let me know. during out triathalon training last summer my sister in law and i use to sing...just move it, move it...from madagascar. since i can't move...? my mom thinks it should be the litle engine that could...i think i can, i think i can, i know i can!! letme know if you have any other ideas.
more updates to come...
well, based on my brother's aalogy of this adventure being a mental game, like a triathalon...i have tansitioned from the bike to the run now. we are on our last leg of this race...and i'm definitely wearing down. so i am looking for a theme song to motivate me. if you have any ideas let me know. during out triathalon training last summer my sister in law and i use to sing...just move it, move it...from madagascar. since i can't move...? my mom thinks it should be the litle engine that could...i think i can, i think i can, i know i can!! letme know if you have any other ideas.
more updates to come...
Friday, February 27, 2009
Another LONG night...but okay this a.m.
Well, I fought the darn headache all day yesterday with no progress of winning it over. Doctor thought I might have caught a virus or something. But then my bloodpressure spiked and they were concerned I was getting preclampsia. So they started running lots of tests, labs, etc. I was looking pretty good on those, but some won't come back til Friday or Saturday. Anyway, when they hooked me up to the monitor last night, I had 11+ contractions...and ended up back over in Labor and Delivery about 10:30pm last night for monitoring and to calm things down again. I think they are trying to let me try out all the Labor and Delivery rooms before the "real thing" so I can pick which I feel best in?? So far I've tried 75, 77, 78, and 71. Anyway, my bloodpressure was high while there. Then I started to run a temperature. But my contractions slowed. So I was sent back around 1am. It feels like musical rooms. I seem to always come back to my room that is starting to feel like "home". It's easier being here with the nurses I know and that know me so well.
My headache has calmed some with help of more meds. (Dang, I hate being on so many meds, but they assure me it does not affect the baby.) But needless to say I have not slept much, so I'm sure I'll be taking my fair share of naps today. Hard to sleep with transports, monitoring, labs, meds, and not to mention a heck of a headache.
A cool update from Wednesday ... at work (CBOCES) my colleagues all threw a baby shower for the 4 psychs that are expecting or had a baby. And I got to participate and see everyone through Skype, a free video conferencing that Kristin recommended we download. What a cool thing. I totally felt like I was on Oprah or something. My nurses thought it was cool too and gave me props to look professional like a scrub hat, mask, and stethoscope to wear so it looked like I had taken a new job as Dr. Shawna. :) It was good to see everyone though.
FYI - for those of you that try to call. My cell does not get reception in my room. And if I don't feel well or have things going on, I have started to take the room phone off the hook. So if you have concerns, you can call the nurses and ask if I'm stable or not. They should tell you. If I'm on Women's Care Unit, I'm stable overall. When I am sent to Labor and Delivery...it has usually been for extra monitoring. But one of these days we'll actually be delivering. But don't get too excited if you hear I've been sent to Labor and Delivery.
Day 39 in the hospital. 32 weeks, 3 days gestation. And doing well ... considering. For those of you that want to guess on McKayle's arrival date, feel free to e-mail me your dates (shawnagilbert@yahoo.com) and we'll get you on the calendar. Don't know what your prize is if you win, but it's fun trying to guess.
My headache has calmed some with help of more meds. (Dang, I hate being on so many meds, but they assure me it does not affect the baby.) But needless to say I have not slept much, so I'm sure I'll be taking my fair share of naps today. Hard to sleep with transports, monitoring, labs, meds, and not to mention a heck of a headache.
A cool update from Wednesday ... at work (CBOCES) my colleagues all threw a baby shower for the 4 psychs that are expecting or had a baby. And I got to participate and see everyone through Skype, a free video conferencing that Kristin recommended we download. What a cool thing. I totally felt like I was on Oprah or something. My nurses thought it was cool too and gave me props to look professional like a scrub hat, mask, and stethoscope to wear so it looked like I had taken a new job as Dr. Shawna. :) It was good to see everyone though.
FYI - for those of you that try to call. My cell does not get reception in my room. And if I don't feel well or have things going on, I have started to take the room phone off the hook. So if you have concerns, you can call the nurses and ask if I'm stable or not. They should tell you. If I'm on Women's Care Unit, I'm stable overall. When I am sent to Labor and Delivery...it has usually been for extra monitoring. But one of these days we'll actually be delivering. But don't get too excited if you hear I've been sent to Labor and Delivery.
Day 39 in the hospital. 32 weeks, 3 days gestation. And doing well ... considering. For those of you that want to guess on McKayle's arrival date, feel free to e-mail me your dates (shawnagilbert@yahoo.com) and we'll get you on the calendar. Don't know what your prize is if you win, but it's fun trying to guess.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Headache today
Today I'm fighting a bad headache again. Not sure what is causing it. Might be a medication they switched to a generic one last night. So I asked for no visitors today and told Brett to stay home. I'm better off trying to sleep it off on days like these. Baby doing fine though. Will update more when feeling better.
Shawna
Shawna
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
32 weeks...safe zone
Well, we made it to the "safe zone" which is awesome! Brett and I are really starting to get excited about this baby girl coming now instead of living in fear day to day.
Tuesday was a good day. It was 65 degrees out and Brett and one of my favorite nurses took me out for a wheelchair ride in the sun. It felt so good to get out and feel the sun. I'm starting to feel like a vampire. So that was spirit lifting for me.
Nothing real exciting medically going on yesterday. Just another day to mark off our calendars. I did have fun laughing often with my favorite nurses back on staff though. We played a few practical jokes on one of them last night. I laughed pretty hard which is always a good feeling. When they get me going, they often tell me "Don't start having contractions. Stop." But it is contagious. Makes me feel alive though to laugh that hard after laying here day after day. If McKayle comes along because of my laughing, then I guess she better have a good sense of humor. :) The final practical joke was at my 4am meds when I squirted my nurse with water from a 12cc syringe in the dark. Needless to say, I was up from 4am on because of laughing making me wide awake. Joke was on me a bit this morning, I guess. :)
Last night a couple friends from work came to visit also to bring baby gifts from coworkers. They are throwing a baby shower for the 4 psychs that are pregnant in our office this afternoon. And I get to join them on Skype...just like Oprah's viewers do. So that will be entertaining. I might have to put on my best outfit, do my hair and wear a fancy hat for this party. :) (Remember, it's the small things in life that keep me going...laughing at myself these days.)
Oh, I have also been honored to receive a secret recipe for "anti-constipation fruit paste" that has been passed down from a nun to one of my doctors. It is "foolproof" she says. So if any of you are in need of some "poop paste" as they call it...or your parents...or your grandparents...I will be happy to share my secret recipe that has been bestowed upon me. You just have to ask.
Well, have a happy, hilarious, fun, exciting Wednesday. I'll update later on my happenings.
Shawna
Tuesday was a good day. It was 65 degrees out and Brett and one of my favorite nurses took me out for a wheelchair ride in the sun. It felt so good to get out and feel the sun. I'm starting to feel like a vampire. So that was spirit lifting for me.
Nothing real exciting medically going on yesterday. Just another day to mark off our calendars. I did have fun laughing often with my favorite nurses back on staff though. We played a few practical jokes on one of them last night. I laughed pretty hard which is always a good feeling. When they get me going, they often tell me "Don't start having contractions. Stop." But it is contagious. Makes me feel alive though to laugh that hard after laying here day after day. If McKayle comes along because of my laughing, then I guess she better have a good sense of humor. :) The final practical joke was at my 4am meds when I squirted my nurse with water from a 12cc syringe in the dark. Needless to say, I was up from 4am on because of laughing making me wide awake. Joke was on me a bit this morning, I guess. :)
Last night a couple friends from work came to visit also to bring baby gifts from coworkers. They are throwing a baby shower for the 4 psychs that are pregnant in our office this afternoon. And I get to join them on Skype...just like Oprah's viewers do. So that will be entertaining. I might have to put on my best outfit, do my hair and wear a fancy hat for this party. :) (Remember, it's the small things in life that keep me going...laughing at myself these days.)
Oh, I have also been honored to receive a secret recipe for "anti-constipation fruit paste" that has been passed down from a nun to one of my doctors. It is "foolproof" she says. So if any of you are in need of some "poop paste" as they call it...or your parents...or your grandparents...I will be happy to share my secret recipe that has been bestowed upon me. You just have to ask.
Well, have a happy, hilarious, fun, exciting Wednesday. I'll update later on my happenings.
Shawna
Monday, February 23, 2009
had better weekends...
well, i haven;t updated for a few days because i haven;t felt good. thw family birthday dinner was fun and good to see everyone, but after only 20 minutes sitting up in the wheelchair i needed to come back and lay down. my head was spinning. m blloodpressure dropped to 80/60. so needless to say, my wheelchair rides are very limited. then i slept much of saturday. too much partying for me no stamina at all.
Sunday was not a good day either an i ended back over in labor and delivery due to contractions that were not subsiding with meds. they finally calmed late and i was back to my room by midnight after close monitoring and exam. so today i'm just pooped out...but stable again. this little one sure keeps me hopping.
today when monitoring the baby we tested Brett's calmness over her. 3 imes she calmed unde his touch and acted up when he removed his hand...like daddy, where did you go? it was funny. he even calmed her from huge hiccups. he just grinned like a proud daddy.
tomorrow we are 32 weeks. doctor says any additional days/weeks is just icing on the cake. so they are very reassured she has made it to th safe zone.
update more tomorrow...
Sunday was not a good day either an i ended back over in labor and delivery due to contractions that were not subsiding with meds. they finally calmed late and i was back to my room by midnight after close monitoring and exam. so today i'm just pooped out...but stable again. this little one sure keeps me hopping.
today when monitoring the baby we tested Brett's calmness over her. 3 imes she calmed unde his touch and acted up when he removed his hand...like daddy, where did you go? it was funny. he even calmed her from huge hiccups. he just grinned like a proud daddy.
tomorrow we are 32 weeks. doctor says any additional days/weeks is just icing on the cake. so they are very reassured she has made it to th safe zone.
update more tomorrow...
Friday, February 20, 2009
Day 32 in hospital...taking it day by day...
Well, after a physically and emotionally exhausting start of the week, things have calmed down. Brett and I are feeling more reassured that this baby girl is going to be okay and make it, but need to spend needed time in the NICU when she does arrive. She has been doing very well the last couple days on the nonstress tests and passing criteria of a 32 week gestation baby. So she is still developing and growing nicely.
The doctors have been ordering daily blood draws monitoring a possible infection, glucose levels, sodium levels, white blood cell counts, etc. These counts have been high and off the last few days, so they were worried I might be developing an infection...which worst case scenario would lead to needing to deliver the baby to treat me. But this morning my counts were back down. Doctor on call today said that it was probably due to the steroid shots I took the last couple days to give her another boost to develop her lungs. I guess the steroids can throw everything out of wack for a few days. So it seems that we might be out of that worry zone again...and taking it day by day.
Brett, Eric, Jen, my nephews, Deanna, Jim, Grandma and Grandpa are all coming up this evening to have a belated birthday celebration. So I'm looking forward to seeing all of them for a while and having some of Deanna's delicious ribs.
That's about it here. We are here "indefinitely" though until she decides to arrive. Brett and I feel comfortable with that decision considering the stress and safety concerns we had if I went home.
Taking it day by day...thanks for the continued prayers!
The doctors have been ordering daily blood draws monitoring a possible infection, glucose levels, sodium levels, white blood cell counts, etc. These counts have been high and off the last few days, so they were worried I might be developing an infection...which worst case scenario would lead to needing to deliver the baby to treat me. But this morning my counts were back down. Doctor on call today said that it was probably due to the steroid shots I took the last couple days to give her another boost to develop her lungs. I guess the steroids can throw everything out of wack for a few days. So it seems that we might be out of that worry zone again...and taking it day by day.
Brett, Eric, Jen, my nephews, Deanna, Jim, Grandma and Grandpa are all coming up this evening to have a belated birthday celebration. So I'm looking forward to seeing all of them for a while and having some of Deanna's delicious ribs.
That's about it here. We are here "indefinitely" though until she decides to arrive. Brett and I feel comfortable with that decision considering the stress and safety concerns we had if I went home.
Taking it day by day...thanks for the continued prayers!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Ultrasound results and update...
Brett and I went to our ultrasound with the perinatalogist yesterday afternoon. Good news is that my fluids are good; baby weighs 3 lbs, 11 oz. and measured 31 weeks, 5 days at only 31 weeks, 0 days. So she is growing and developing very well. Other news (which is good news for safety issues), my funneling is very wide again like when I was admitted to the hospital (not good), and the doctor recommended that I stay in the hospital "indefinitely" until this baby arrives. He did not seem to think that she would make it to 36 weeks. He guessed that she might come within the next few weeks based on the ultrasound. So the NICU nurses came and visited with Brett and I about what to expect, etc. Then they took us on a tour of the NICU. To be honest, it was a lot to take in for one day after not feeling well all weekend. But Brett and talked through it and with friends and nurses and things were put into perspective. This baby is in so much better shape now than she was when we arrived her over a month ago. She will need to spend weeks in the NICU before coming home. But the babies are safe and well taken care of there. And she is well worth it all as Brett put it. :)
Tonight the doctor was called b/c of lots of pressure and I was ordered to take a trip to the jacuzi tub. I was very excited as that is what I have wanted since I got pregnant. So that was nice and relaxing until the jets came on unexpectedly and completely scared the baby and I. We recovered and are doing fine though.
And today a couple of my favorite nurses were on and we ordered pizza and had birthday cake to celebrate my birthday since I was feeling better. They sure keep my spirits up.
Thanks to all my friends and family for thinking of me on my birthday. It was great to get all the e-mails, cards, gifts, and the white "baby" rose and balloons. :)
I'll update more when we have more to tell. For now, we are taking it day by day and week by week. We hope this baby continues to be strong and stubborn and does not want to join us for a few more weeks at least. She will let us know when she is ready, I guess.
Tonight the doctor was called b/c of lots of pressure and I was ordered to take a trip to the jacuzi tub. I was very excited as that is what I have wanted since I got pregnant. So that was nice and relaxing until the jets came on unexpectedly and completely scared the baby and I. We recovered and are doing fine though.
And today a couple of my favorite nurses were on and we ordered pizza and had birthday cake to celebrate my birthday since I was feeling better. They sure keep my spirits up.
Thanks to all my friends and family for thinking of me on my birthday. It was great to get all the e-mails, cards, gifts, and the white "baby" rose and balloons. :)
I'll update more when we have more to tell. For now, we are taking it day by day and week by week. We hope this baby continues to be strong and stubborn and does not want to join us for a few more weeks at least. She will let us know when she is ready, I guess.
Monday, February 16, 2009
birthday and recovery
i haven;t posted for a couple days b/c i have not felt well. Docs not sure if it was a GI virus or what. they did lots of bloodwork and most looked good. just came back indicating i was fighting something. so they are doing daily bloodwork to monitor things. i had a couple friends viisit today, but we decided to postpone family dinner for a couple days as i'm just startingi to eat solid foods again...and i want to be able toeat cake. :)
my nurses have helped me celebrate by starting at my 4am med tinme singing happy birthday; then another decorated my room and brought cake, another called to sing onher day off. so i have been sung happy birhday lots today by family and friends calling.
baby still doing well. she did not officially meet criteria on the nonstress tests today, but I have not been eating much so i'm sure she is conserving her energy. she is fine and doctors are not concerned about her.
brett and i are excited about getting to see her again in the ultrasound tomorrow with the perinatologist. i have a feeling we will start planning for me to posibly go home on bedrest sometime next week. brettis concerned about me being so far from the hospital, so i may stay at my in-laws or a wek or so to be only 10 minutes away. each week the baby gets to develop, the more reassured we get. and 32 eeks, our next big milestone, is only a week away!!
i'll update tomorrow after the ultrasound to let you know her estimated weight, etc.
my nurses have helped me celebrate by starting at my 4am med tinme singing happy birthday; then another decorated my room and brought cake, another called to sing onher day off. so i have been sung happy birhday lots today by family and friends calling.
baby still doing well. she did not officially meet criteria on the nonstress tests today, but I have not been eating much so i'm sure she is conserving her energy. she is fine and doctors are not concerned about her.
brett and i are excited about getting to see her again in the ultrasound tomorrow with the perinatologist. i have a feeling we will start planning for me to posibly go home on bedrest sometime next week. brettis concerned about me being so far from the hospital, so i may stay at my in-laws or a wek or so to be only 10 minutes away. each week the baby gets to develop, the more reassured we get. and 32 eeks, our next big milestone, is only a week away!!
i'll update tomorrow after the ultrasound to let you know her estimated weight, etc.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Happy Valentine's Day
Today is day 26 in the hospital and it's Valentine's Day. My nurses came in this morning singing "Happy Valentine's Day" to me. My mom called and woke me up to tell me happy valentine's day. Last night Brett came to see me to have a Valentine's dinner of prime rib. It's all brought smiles to my face, despite the nausea continuing. Talked to the doctor about it this morning, so they added another med to my candy cocktail for acid reflux. Hopefully that will work. We think that it is just because the baby has moved to the right side and is cramping my style, basically. Baby did not pass the nonstress test this morning either. She slept through the whole monitoring which she has never done. So they are doing another nonstress test this afternoon just to double check her. But she was moving the whole time, which is funny. Contractions have continued, but seem to be under control with the meds.
I had lots of visitors on Thursday night: Marie, Lauren, Logan, Kristin, Brigham, Gloria, Julie, Alicia. Thanks to all of you for visiting and the treats you brought. And thank you to EES for the card and thinking of us. It means a lot.
Today I'm just hanging out being visited by my nurses often and watching girl flicks on the TV all day. Brett will be up later to hang out.
Just counting down the days til week 31 and our next ultrasound...3 more days! :)
Shawna
I had lots of visitors on Thursday night: Marie, Lauren, Logan, Kristin, Brigham, Gloria, Julie, Alicia. Thanks to all of you for visiting and the treats you brought. And thank you to EES for the card and thinking of us. It means a lot.
Today I'm just hanging out being visited by my nurses often and watching girl flicks on the TV all day. Brett will be up later to hang out.
Just counting down the days til week 31 and our next ultrasound...3 more days! :)
Shawna
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Day 24 in hospital...Lincoln's Birthday
Sorry I haven't updated recently. It is harder for me to update on the hospital TV internet. So I prefer to wait for Brett to bring out laptop up.
Baby and I are still stable. Doctors are pretty optomistic of how stable we have been. We have played with some med time changes to start to prepare for me to possibly go home. I thought it would be difficult to wake up every 2 hours at night to take my meds. So we are moving it to every 4 hours at night. I also started an iron supplement and continue an antibiotic to prevent further bladder infections. Baby is doing well and passing her nonstress tests daily. She will often kick and run from the nurses when they put the cold goo and monitor on my stomach. I laugh at her. She also has the hiccups often which is so cute to hear.
We have had a few visitors this week, but during the week is slower than on the weekend. I have had a few new nurses, but they adjusted to be not being a standard protocol patient that takes lots of meds. I am looking forward to this weekend as several of my favorite nurses are on and will be "fighting" over who gets me. :) I told them we'd have to have a party. I even have a few brewskies in the frig that were left by Karyn last weekend. :) (Don't worry, I'm not consuming them.)
My upper arms are big bruises from my heparin shots. The nurses cringe when they see them. So one of my nurses and I decided to start naming the bruises because some are as big as a softball. (Cute, huh?) So we wrote another favorite nurses name on ALL of the bruises. Got some good laughs out of that one when she denied giving all of them to me. I am getting so much scar tissue on my arms that this morning my nurse kept trying to punch the needle into my arm but it would not go through. She felt bad...so I had to give her a hard time. But I'm use to it. She had to get another needle and change the injection site. Afterward she drew a heart around my ouchie! :) I know this all sounds pathetically gross or bad, but I try to find the humor in most anything.
Hospital food is starting to get old. Had some upset stomachs due to food, so I'm needing to eat more bland. All minor things in the scheme of things.
Brett surprised me by bring Gus, our dog, up the other morning to see me. That was a great surprise that brought big smiles to my face.
That's about it here. Just trying to count down the days til 32 weeks when I might get to go home. We pray the stable days continue. :)
Shawna
Baby and I are still stable. Doctors are pretty optomistic of how stable we have been. We have played with some med time changes to start to prepare for me to possibly go home. I thought it would be difficult to wake up every 2 hours at night to take my meds. So we are moving it to every 4 hours at night. I also started an iron supplement and continue an antibiotic to prevent further bladder infections. Baby is doing well and passing her nonstress tests daily. She will often kick and run from the nurses when they put the cold goo and monitor on my stomach. I laugh at her. She also has the hiccups often which is so cute to hear.
We have had a few visitors this week, but during the week is slower than on the weekend. I have had a few new nurses, but they adjusted to be not being a standard protocol patient that takes lots of meds. I am looking forward to this weekend as several of my favorite nurses are on and will be "fighting" over who gets me. :) I told them we'd have to have a party. I even have a few brewskies in the frig that were left by Karyn last weekend. :) (Don't worry, I'm not consuming them.)
My upper arms are big bruises from my heparin shots. The nurses cringe when they see them. So one of my nurses and I decided to start naming the bruises because some are as big as a softball. (Cute, huh?) So we wrote another favorite nurses name on ALL of the bruises. Got some good laughs out of that one when she denied giving all of them to me. I am getting so much scar tissue on my arms that this morning my nurse kept trying to punch the needle into my arm but it would not go through. She felt bad...so I had to give her a hard time. But I'm use to it. She had to get another needle and change the injection site. Afterward she drew a heart around my ouchie! :) I know this all sounds pathetically gross or bad, but I try to find the humor in most anything.
Hospital food is starting to get old. Had some upset stomachs due to food, so I'm needing to eat more bland. All minor things in the scheme of things.
Brett surprised me by bring Gus, our dog, up the other morning to see me. That was a great surprise that brought big smiles to my face.
That's about it here. Just trying to count down the days til 32 weeks when I might get to go home. We pray the stable days continue. :)
Shawna
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Feb. 8, 2009
I had lots of visitors this weekend. My friend Karyn from college came to visit from Ohio for the weekend. She even camped out at the hospital with me...what a trooper. Other visitors included: brother and sister-in-laws, nephews, Dalene and Jerry, Kristin, Ross and Brigham., my mother and father-in-law,..and of course Brett every day. I got lasagna brought to me one night and pizza and fudge yesterday...so I'm getting foods I crave too.
Dr. James, my regular OBGYN was here on call all weekend. I had to tease him for being such a stranger. One of my favorite nurses was on all weekend too and hung with us often to entertain and chat. My heparin levels were reduced back to what they were a few days ago after a blooddraw. Other meds and contraction/baby monitoring are the same.
Doctor was optimistic about me carrying this baby for quite a while, but he didn;t want to reduce contraction meds b/c it is working for now.
I have had a few mental down times the last few days, but I think that is to be expected. As my brother says, this is a mental game now like a triathalon and I'm half way through the bike portion. When I hit the end of Feb. and 32 weeks, I'll be transitioning to the run and final legs. Then he laughed and said the finish line is laying a basketball. That's a brother for ya. She will be a prize or light at the end of the tunnel...and well worth the sacrifice. I have always been the competitive type that loves challenges, so I know this little girl and I can handle it. She has her mother;s stubborness and strength...we can tell already.
oh, my Iowa family and grandma Melva sent a gorgeous quilt that they made for the baby. And pictures of Grandma tying the quiilt. Grandma, you look great for 92 years old!! Thank you! We are blessed to have such wonderful family anf friends!
Dr. James, my regular OBGYN was here on call all weekend. I had to tease him for being such a stranger. One of my favorite nurses was on all weekend too and hung with us often to entertain and chat. My heparin levels were reduced back to what they were a few days ago after a blooddraw. Other meds and contraction/baby monitoring are the same.
Doctor was optimistic about me carrying this baby for quite a while, but he didn;t want to reduce contraction meds b/c it is working for now.
I have had a few mental down times the last few days, but I think that is to be expected. As my brother says, this is a mental game now like a triathalon and I'm half way through the bike portion. When I hit the end of Feb. and 32 weeks, I'll be transitioning to the run and final legs. Then he laughed and said the finish line is laying a basketball. That's a brother for ya. She will be a prize or light at the end of the tunnel...and well worth the sacrifice. I have always been the competitive type that loves challenges, so I know this little girl and I can handle it. She has her mother;s stubborness and strength...we can tell already.
oh, my Iowa family and grandma Melva sent a gorgeous quilt that they made for the baby. And pictures of Grandma tying the quiilt. Grandma, you look great for 92 years old!! Thank you! We are blessed to have such wonderful family anf friends!
Thursday, February 5, 2009
not much news
today there is not much news. doctor increased heparin to compensate for placenta growth. baby passed nonstress test today. labs came back to confirm uti so on meds for that again. did not go outside today, but may go for a ride later when brett or auntie julie come visit. i also was approved to order fancy meal 1 time every 2 weeks. :)
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Dogs visit hospital
Yes, this afternoon Brett brought Gus and Bear to visit me at the hospital. My nurse rolled me outside in the sun and blue skies...and there were Brett and the dogs. It brought me to tears I was so excited to see them. It was good for my soul. :) We wanted to try them out outside before we brought them up to my room. When we returned and Brett left with the dogs, the other nurses asked where the dogs were because they wanted to meet them. So maybe next time one will come visit me in my room. But for today it was great to get out in the sun and fresh air. :) Big smiles on my face!!
Shawna
Shawna
Happy Birthday to My Dad!!
Today is my dad's birthday...he's a whopping 65 years old and awnry as ever. :) I have yet to get ahold of him to harrass him yet, but that is my goal today. :)
Last night my bladder infection came back, but thankfully without the spasms which can start contractions. So I'm back on meds for that infection and doing fine. Guess this is just my time to be highly medicated. :/ Whatever it takes!!
As I posted yesterday, I have wheelchair privileges for 30 minutes a day...so I am totally excited about that. I think Brett is going to bring Gus, our dog, up to the hospital and I'm going to go outside to see him this afternoon. It is suppose to be in the 60s and 70s today, so I'm truly looking forward to getting outside in the fresh air and sunshine. So that is the big news today!!
Oh, here's a funny though...my Iowa family (grandma, aunt, cousins) sent a care package and some of the contents included Vicks because Grandpa Newell always said it would fix what ails you, Chocolate because Grandma Melva says it WILL fix anything that ails you, treats because that's what our family does is eat sweets, etc. Oh, and thanks for the oil that cures headaches...I used that the other night and it did help. (I thought I'd be tough and not take my tylenol, but the headache kicked in for the rest of the day. No more being tough...I take my tylenol with my procardia every time.)
Have a great day!
Shawna
Last night my bladder infection came back, but thankfully without the spasms which can start contractions. So I'm back on meds for that infection and doing fine. Guess this is just my time to be highly medicated. :/ Whatever it takes!!
As I posted yesterday, I have wheelchair privileges for 30 minutes a day...so I am totally excited about that. I think Brett is going to bring Gus, our dog, up to the hospital and I'm going to go outside to see him this afternoon. It is suppose to be in the 60s and 70s today, so I'm truly looking forward to getting outside in the fresh air and sunshine. So that is the big news today!!
Oh, here's a funny though...my Iowa family (grandma, aunt, cousins) sent a care package and some of the contents included Vicks because Grandpa Newell always said it would fix what ails you, Chocolate because Grandma Melva says it WILL fix anything that ails you, treats because that's what our family does is eat sweets, etc. Oh, and thanks for the oil that cures headaches...I used that the other night and it did help. (I thought I'd be tough and not take my tylenol, but the headache kicked in for the rest of the day. No more being tough...I take my tylenol with my procardia every time.)
Have a great day!
Shawna
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
29 Weeks Gestation Today!!!
Today we reached our 29 week gestation goal. Now we are shooting for 30 weeks and beyond. :) We had our ultrasound with the high risk doctor today. My cervix has not thinned out anymore and the funneling of amniotic fluid is not as wide of a funnel. So this was great news. I did have a small contraction during the ultrasound that I couldn't feel, but the change in the funneling was not nearly as obvious as 2 weeks ago when we were admitted to the hospital. It was obvious to Brett and I right away that things looked better. The doctor was happy with how I have stabilized and even gave me wheelchair privileges to get out of my room for 30 minutes a day if I continue not to have many contractions. :) Yippeee!! I feel like I got a "get out of jail" ticket. :)
So it was a good day to celebrate for Brett and I. Brett was so excited that as I was getting wheeled back to my room he detoured to find our favorite nurses to tell them I got wheelchair privileges. It's the small things in life that make it exciting and rewarding. So make sure all of you go outside and enjoy the sun and weather...because some people can't. :)
They did not do a growth estimate today. Doctor wanted to wait until I was at 31 weeks (every 4 weeks) to do that, but he said she looked great and my fluid levels were looking good. So all positive stuff. Our baby girl was sleeping during the ultrasound so the doctor gave her a little nudge to wake her up so she would move...and she did. In fact, she gave us a thumbs up...she had her hand in a fist with her thumb up...working its way to her mouth. Too cute. At least it was a thumbs up this time and not the middle finger like she has done in the past. :)
When we asked the doctor what our goal was...he said to carry her as long as I could. He said 32 weeks is our next goal...then beyond.
That's about all for an update today...but a great day with good news for us.
So it was a good day to celebrate for Brett and I. Brett was so excited that as I was getting wheeled back to my room he detoured to find our favorite nurses to tell them I got wheelchair privileges. It's the small things in life that make it exciting and rewarding. So make sure all of you go outside and enjoy the sun and weather...because some people can't. :)
They did not do a growth estimate today. Doctor wanted to wait until I was at 31 weeks (every 4 weeks) to do that, but he said she looked great and my fluid levels were looking good. So all positive stuff. Our baby girl was sleeping during the ultrasound so the doctor gave her a little nudge to wake her up so she would move...and she did. In fact, she gave us a thumbs up...she had her hand in a fist with her thumb up...working its way to her mouth. Too cute. At least it was a thumbs up this time and not the middle finger like she has done in the past. :)
When we asked the doctor what our goal was...he said to carry her as long as I could. He said 32 weeks is our next goal...then beyond.
That's about all for an update today...but a great day with good news for us.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Two weeks already!?
Today I have been hospitalized two weeks already. Crazy, but thankful, that the time is going by quickly. We are having another stable day. Contractions picked up to 5 in an hour last night, but slowed when they hooked the monitor to me. So hopefully it was just the excitement of the SuperBowl. :) That was a good, close game to watch. My favorite commercials were the Budweiser Clydesdales playing fetch, rescuing his girlfriend from the circus, and the laughing my ass off one.
I have lost 7 pounds since being in the hospital...so I guess this is my new diet plan, huh? I'm sure it is the portion sizes of meals and losing muscle, but whatever. As long as baby girl keeps gaining I'm fine with it.
Tomorrow we will be at week 29 which was our next goal! We have a scheduled ultrasound and appt. with the perinatalogist that sent us to the hospital 2 weeks ago. I am anxious to see how much my cervix has changed, if I'm still having contractions I can't feel, and how much the baby has grown...as well as answering questions. So we will have a more informational update tomorrow.
Brett is on his way up to the hospital now to have lunch with me.
I have lost 7 pounds since being in the hospital...so I guess this is my new diet plan, huh? I'm sure it is the portion sizes of meals and losing muscle, but whatever. As long as baby girl keeps gaining I'm fine with it.
Tomorrow we will be at week 29 which was our next goal! We have a scheduled ultrasound and appt. with the perinatalogist that sent us to the hospital 2 weeks ago. I am anxious to see how much my cervix has changed, if I'm still having contractions I can't feel, and how much the baby has grown...as well as answering questions. So we will have a more informational update tomorrow.
Brett is on his way up to the hospital now to have lunch with me.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
SuperBowl Sunday
Today we are going on "stable" day 5 which is awesome. Brett came to visit and brought me some SuperBowl goodies. His mother and step-father and grandparents also came to visit, as well as a friend from work. On Saturday our aunt and uncle came to visit. Jen (my sister-in-law) came up for a couple hours and painted my toenails. And Brett came up and brought clean laundry and had dinner with me again. It was good to see them all.
I forget what I last posted, so if I repeat myself, I apologize.
We have an NST (Non-stress test) done daily, sometimes more than once to check for the baby's heartbeat escalating appropriately. But our little one has been napping or moving off radar, so we had not been able to meet criteria to pass the tests. So Friday night when Brett was up here having pizza with me, we had an BPP (BioPhysical Profile) ultrasound done for 30 minutes where they check the baby's fine motor movements, gross motor movements, fluid levels, and breathing movements. She passed the fine, gross and fluid levels right away. Then we waited around waiting for her to practice breathing movements for a half hour. Finally, in the last minute she got the hickups which passes as a breathing movement. So she passed that test. This was reassuring to Brett and I. It confirmed that she is doing well and just following doctor's orders for us to take it easy and have boring days. :)
I still have some contractions, but much fewer than in the past. I only have 2-3 a few hours a day, so doctors are not concerned. The key was the right level of medication and to take them on the dot when they are due. So I take my meds often (2am, 4am, 8am, 12noon, 2pm, 4pm, 8pm, 10pm, 12midnight). My most restful time is between 4am and 8am. :)
Well, I'm going to watch the SuperBowl so I don't miss any good commercials. Update you more later.
I forget what I last posted, so if I repeat myself, I apologize.
We have an NST (Non-stress test) done daily, sometimes more than once to check for the baby's heartbeat escalating appropriately. But our little one has been napping or moving off radar, so we had not been able to meet criteria to pass the tests. So Friday night when Brett was up here having pizza with me, we had an BPP (BioPhysical Profile) ultrasound done for 30 minutes where they check the baby's fine motor movements, gross motor movements, fluid levels, and breathing movements. She passed the fine, gross and fluid levels right away. Then we waited around waiting for her to practice breathing movements for a half hour. Finally, in the last minute she got the hickups which passes as a breathing movement. So she passed that test. This was reassuring to Brett and I. It confirmed that she is doing well and just following doctor's orders for us to take it easy and have boring days. :)
I still have some contractions, but much fewer than in the past. I only have 2-3 a few hours a day, so doctors are not concerned. The key was the right level of medication and to take them on the dot when they are due. So I take my meds often (2am, 4am, 8am, 12noon, 2pm, 4pm, 8pm, 10pm, 12midnight). My most restful time is between 4am and 8am. :)
Well, I'm going to watch the SuperBowl so I don't miss any good commercials. Update you more later.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Day 11...doing well
I can't believe it is already Friday and I've almost been here two weeks already. Guess it doesn't seem like it when you are drugged and out of it the first week, huh? :) Well, today is starting off being another good one to add to the books and mark off my calendar (Countdown calendar for baby's arrival). This is good news. Each day she continues to incubate is supposedly 3 less days in the NICU. So we are literally taking it day by day. But we are starting a positive trend in the right direction now. :)
Brett was up here for a few hours last night to have dinner with me and hang out. He got to hear the baby on the monitor again. It is always reassuring to hear her strong heartbeat. And he got a free dinner. My favorite nurses gave us some "Splash of Sunshine" gift cards for hospital cafe's etc. That was nice of them. I guess new mothers get to order a special dinner after they deliver (ie, lobster tail, cheesecake, etc.). The nurses were going to mention to the CEO of the hospital to come talk to me so I could see if we could have a celebratory dinner each week we hit another milestone. Goal now is week 29 on Tuesday. :) That sounds like a fair trade don't you think, since we will be paying them plenty as it is. :)
Brett has been busy taking his nephew to preschool, doing my laundry, holding the fort down at home, and taking care of me. He'll probably be up later to have dinner with me.
For those of you that want to visit, I just ask that you call and let me know when you want to visit, so that I can space out visitors.
More tomorrow...
Brett was up here for a few hours last night to have dinner with me and hang out. He got to hear the baby on the monitor again. It is always reassuring to hear her strong heartbeat. And he got a free dinner. My favorite nurses gave us some "Splash of Sunshine" gift cards for hospital cafe's etc. That was nice of them. I guess new mothers get to order a special dinner after they deliver (ie, lobster tail, cheesecake, etc.). The nurses were going to mention to the CEO of the hospital to come talk to me so I could see if we could have a celebratory dinner each week we hit another milestone. Goal now is week 29 on Tuesday. :) That sounds like a fair trade don't you think, since we will be paying them plenty as it is. :)
Brett has been busy taking his nephew to preschool, doing my laundry, holding the fort down at home, and taking care of me. He'll probably be up later to have dinner with me.
For those of you that want to visit, I just ask that you call and let me know when you want to visit, so that I can space out visitors.
More tomorrow...
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Day 10 in hospital
Today is starting out to be another stable day which is great!! I am only having 1-2 contractions per hour. Baby is doing well on the non-stress tests (NST) with regular heartbeat and appropriate escalations in heartrate. I think they might have figured out the right doses to keep the contractions under control. :) At least I hope. Dr. came in already today and is ordering an ultrasound next Tuesday with the perinatalogist (high risk doctor that sent me to the hospital) to check my cervical length and measure the growth of the baby. That excites me because it will be a longer ultrasound again when they do measurements...and I love to see this baby girl on the ultrasounds. It is just so reassuring to me.
Friends have been to visit and made a "countdown calendar" that I mark off each day we keep this baby incubating, delivered flowers, gave me an adorable "Moses Basket", brought treats, dinner, guardian angels, etc. They have all brightened my room. Every nurse or doctor that comes in comments on all the pictures, goodies, and how good it smells in here. :) So a big thanks to all of you...and especially my mother and husband!!
Today I've got some great, hilarious nurses in charge of me and come to visit often to tell me jokes and just check on me. Some of these nurses are going to become like family to me...I can tell already. I have had multiple nurses come back to visit me, despite not being assigned to me which has been great! (I really am a funny person...not the trouble patient...when I'm not all drugged and mag'd out.) :)
That's about all going on this morning. I'll update more later.
Love...Shawna
Friends have been to visit and made a "countdown calendar" that I mark off each day we keep this baby incubating, delivered flowers, gave me an adorable "Moses Basket", brought treats, dinner, guardian angels, etc. They have all brightened my room. Every nurse or doctor that comes in comments on all the pictures, goodies, and how good it smells in here. :) So a big thanks to all of you...and especially my mother and husband!!
Today I've got some great, hilarious nurses in charge of me and come to visit often to tell me jokes and just check on me. Some of these nurses are going to become like family to me...I can tell already. I have had multiple nurses come back to visit me, despite not being assigned to me which has been great! (I really am a funny person...not the trouble patient...when I'm not all drugged and mag'd out.) :)
That's about all going on this morning. I'll update more later.
Love...Shawna
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Day 9 in hospital
Well, we have made it through another night, to Week 28, and I'm hoping for a couple "stable" days in a row. Monday was my first stable day. I was hoping yesterday was going to be also, but they ended up sending me back to labor and delivery b/c I was having contractions again. We think it was due to a change in meds and needing a higher dose. So after the close monitoring and increased meds, i'm back to my room on Women's Care.
My mom was here for a few days and helped get me settled in with what I need and calmed me down after a roughweek. But I was exhausted when she left...lots of talking, pedicures, laughing, watching the Bachelor...can wear one out. (smile) Mom headed back yesterday exhausted herself.
Brett has been busy gtting me tings I need, taking his nephew to presho and chasing our dogs. We are going to work on falling into some sort of routine. It has been hard to do when we haven't had 2 stable days.
The great news is that our baby girl is doing well and still incubating...every day helps!
Shawna and Brett
My mom was here for a few days and helped get me settled in with what I need and calmed me down after a roughweek. But I was exhausted when she left...lots of talking, pedicures, laughing, watching the Bachelor...can wear one out. (smile) Mom headed back yesterday exhausted herself.
Brett has been busy gtting me tings I need, taking his nephew to presho and chasing our dogs. We are going to work on falling into some sort of routine. It has been hard to do when we haven't had 2 stable days.
The great news is that our baby girl is doing well and still incubating...every day helps!
Shawna and Brett
Sunday, January 25, 2009
My Mother-inlaw is here
Today is Sunday. My wonderful mother-in law is here all the way from Bowling Green KY.
She has decorated shawnas room with photos of our family all over the room. Shawn has received a pedicure from her mother and plucked Chin hairs. My mom and Jim are coming to visit. My Brother and Jen and the boys are going to bring bbq for dinner. We will post soon
She has decorated shawnas room with photos of our family all over the room. Shawn has received a pedicure from her mother and plucked Chin hairs. My mom and Jim are coming to visit. My Brother and Jen and the boys are going to bring bbq for dinner. We will post soon
Saturday, January 24, 2009
hospital update
it has been a tough week in general. Our baby is still in womb and doing well, but i have had some real ups and downs. Let me just say that bedrest is NOT restful!!! I have had some rapid heart rates and cardiologist has been involved. No sure if med reated, bu it continues to be monitored and medicated. Side effects of meds have been horrible...debilitating...so I asked for no visitors until we figure some things out. Sorry. Thank you for your prayers, calls, and wanting to visit, but please give me time to stabilize. I have been moved to another room and baby and contractions are monitored but not 24 hours a day. This is good news! Now I just need my body to adjust to meds and trauma. I'll update asI feel up to it. My mom is comig to visit for a couple days. Hugs, love, and faith! Shawna
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Day 2 in hospital
Well, as Brett posted last night, I have been admitted to the hospital due cervix length being full thinned out and having contractions. I did not realize I was having them until the specialist pointed them out on the ultrasound. Luckily, it was all caught in time. I have taken steroid shots to help the baby develop. those should start helping by tomorrow. I am on an IV w/ magnesium med to stop/calm my uterus. things have calmed, but not stopped completely. I am considered stable at this point though.
Funny story (now anyway)...themagnesium meds make me feel horrible (headaches, hot flashes, blurred vision, sleeplessness, vomitting...kind of like a bad drunk or flu). Anyway, I was talking to my friend Anne this morning about all of this. She has experienced it and asked if I was vomiting yet? No...then I dry heaved...then told her I had to go throw up...which I did immediately. The funny part was meeting my doctor for the day (the rotate daily on-call) as I was sitting in a chair (because I was not able to stand like I thought I could)...having already been stripped of my lovely hospital gown due to all the vomit...the doctor walks in and asks how i'm doing. Hee hee! and I even recycled my pills I had thrown up. They stayed down the 2nd time. (Hope you were not eating hen you read this.)
Due to those side effects they reduced my ma dose...and I'm having some more contractions, but they are being controlled and closely monitored at this point.
Today was a day to just recoop. I've answered the phone when I feel up to it, but no visitors except Brett to bring me some goodies and drinks for my dry mouth. Thanks to my nephew, Jacob, I made it throughlst night on the pepermint he left me
If you want to call, the hospital # is 970-495-8300 and ask for me.
Write more tomorrow. Hugs, love, and hope! :)
Shawna
Funny story (now anyway)...themagnesium meds make me feel horrible (headaches, hot flashes, blurred vision, sleeplessness, vomitting...kind of like a bad drunk or flu). Anyway, I was talking to my friend Anne this morning about all of this. She has experienced it and asked if I was vomiting yet? No...then I dry heaved...then told her I had to go throw up...which I did immediately. The funny part was meeting my doctor for the day (the rotate daily on-call) as I was sitting in a chair (because I was not able to stand like I thought I could)...having already been stripped of my lovely hospital gown due to all the vomit...the doctor walks in and asks how i'm doing. Hee hee! and I even recycled my pills I had thrown up. They stayed down the 2nd time. (Hope you were not eating hen you read this.)
Due to those side effects they reduced my ma dose...and I'm having some more contractions, but they are being controlled and closely monitored at this point.
Today was a day to just recoop. I've answered the phone when I feel up to it, but no visitors except Brett to bring me some goodies and drinks for my dry mouth. Thanks to my nephew, Jacob, I made it throughlst night on the pepermint he left me
If you want to call, the hospital # is 970-495-8300 and ask for me.
Write more tomorrow. Hugs, love, and hope! :)
Shawna
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Inaugeration Day,
With history being made, Our lives have changed also. Shawna has takin up residency at Poudre Valley Hospital. When to our bi-weekley check up and shawna's cevix has thined out to much and the doctor sent her to the hospital for a longer period of time. She will be monitored until our baby shows up.
We will keep posting
Thanks
Brett and Shawna
We will keep posting
Thanks
Brett and Shawna
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Change of scenery...
On Saturday, Brett, his brother and nephew went to Denver to a boat show. I rode over to my sister and brother-in-laws house and camped out on their couch all day and evening. It was a nice change of scenery. And their couch is much more comfortable than our cot out by the TV. So Jen and I watched movies, played with Kameron, my nephew, and I crocheted some. It was a good distraction, yet still following doctors orders.
Today Brett will be busy cleaning the house. I'm ... guess what? Laying flat. (smile) I am looking forward to the next doctor appointment on Tuesday with the specialists. Several of my friends have been by to visit, which has been nice too.
Until Tuesday then...
Today Brett will be busy cleaning the house. I'm ... guess what? Laying flat. (smile) I am looking forward to the next doctor appointment on Tuesday with the specialists. Several of my friends have been by to visit, which has been nice too.
Until Tuesday then...
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Ultrasound pictures
Here are a couple of ultrasound pictures from week 26 (Monday, Jan. 12th). She has her toes almost touching her nose. And notice the pointed nose in the one picture. Brett's comment right away was..."Oh my gosh! Her nose looks just like your mothers." (We love ya, Mom!) Anyway, we think she is adorable.
Day 3 of bedrest is coming to an end. I did lots of work stuff to keep me busy the last few days. So I am happy to be able to do some things from home. Brett and I are settling into a little bit of a routine.
Day 3 of bedrest is coming to an end. I did lots of work stuff to keep me busy the last few days. So I am happy to be able to do some things from home. Brett and I are settling into a little bit of a routine.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
26 Weeks and Bedrest
Yesterday Brett and I went to my scheduled ultrasound appointment. Our baby girl had moved her feet and was doing a little swimmers "pike". Her bottom was down and her head and feet were up. Her toes were actually touching her nose. It was too cute. She is still breech, but doctors are still not worried about that at this point. She had time to turn. I hope to post some of the ultrasound pictures to share with you.
The other news was that I was placed on bedrest due to my cervix continuing to thin out. So it is time to lay flat and not be on my feet much at all. I was mentally prepared for that decision and was not too upset about it...but it will be an adjustment. So I'm going to take it one day at a time. Brett was having a harder time with the news due to fears about the baby, etc. But we are doing okay and adjusting. Thank goodness we have such supportive friends and family. And luckily, I will still be able to do some work from bed as well to help out my colleagues. (If you didn't know there are 4 psychologists in my office pregnant and all due this spring...so we will be hurting for coverage.)
Today we are at 26 weeks gestation though. Every day that goes by gives this little girl more time to develop. So we are very hopeful. We have scheduled another appointment with the perinatalogists or high risk doctor again. So I will go back to being under the care of both doctors to cover all the bases. We will not see him for another ultrasound until next Tuesday. So until then, you will be getting exciting "bedrest" updates. :)
Shawna
The other news was that I was placed on bedrest due to my cervix continuing to thin out. So it is time to lay flat and not be on my feet much at all. I was mentally prepared for that decision and was not too upset about it...but it will be an adjustment. So I'm going to take it one day at a time. Brett was having a harder time with the news due to fears about the baby, etc. But we are doing okay and adjusting. Thank goodness we have such supportive friends and family. And luckily, I will still be able to do some work from bed as well to help out my colleagues. (If you didn't know there are 4 psychologists in my office pregnant and all due this spring...so we will be hurting for coverage.)
Today we are at 26 weeks gestation though. Every day that goes by gives this little girl more time to develop. So we are very hopeful. We have scheduled another appointment with the perinatalogists or high risk doctor again. So I will go back to being under the care of both doctors to cover all the bases. We will not see him for another ultrasound until next Tuesday. So until then, you will be getting exciting "bedrest" updates. :)
Shawna
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Nuggets in the suite
Last night we went to the Denver Nuggets game against the Pistons with my in-laws. It was my first time to a professional basketball game and we got to sit in a suite. It was sweet! Loved it. Except the Nuggets lead the whole game and lost it in the last minute. Bummer. We thought it was pretty awesome that Jim got the tickets and invited us to go with them. It was fun!
Because we got back so late last night, I'm laying low today and resting with my feet up. Need to give baby and me our rest. Later we will head to Grandma's for a family birthday dinner.
Because we got back so late last night, I'm laying low today and resting with my feet up. Need to give baby and me our rest. Later we will head to Grandma's for a family birthday dinner.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Another Milestone
Well, we are 25 weeks gestation now and feeling better each week about this baby girl. Also, Brett has had time to work on the bathroom he has been remodeling. So we will not only have a new baby, but a new bathroom before she arrives also. :) I'm very happy about that.
Next doctor appointment is on Monday...so I will update more after that appointment.
Next doctor appointment is on Monday...so I will update more after that appointment.
Monday, January 5, 2009
More bloodwork
Today the doctor's nurse called to tell me my glucose levels came back and were fine. So no gestational diabetes which is great news. I joked with the doctor last visit saying, "Watch, I'll probably have glucose problems." He joked back and just said he'd have to add another shot to my regiment. But we do not have to do that thankfully.
When the nurse called, she also asked me to track down some records of initial blood screenings to check for RH negative, etc. So when I did that, I found out that none of that bloodwork had been done. So I went today to get my blood drawn to do all the initial screenings that are usually done at your initial visit once you find out your pregnant. Morale of the story: keep track of your records, what tests are being done, and follow up on your own...especially when you have multiple doctors. We have to be our own advocates.
I also started back to work today after the holiday break. Things pick up quickly too. But I am having to ask people to carry my stuff in to the buildings for me. If any of you know me, I have trouble asking for help too. But I am learning and trying to follow doctor's orders.
Brett was not called back in to work today. He has been layed off for the last couple of weeks. So he is just waiting to find out when he will go back. ?? But our bathroom is finally getting completed that we/he has been working on for a while. :) That makes me happy.
That's all for now.
Shawna
When the nurse called, she also asked me to track down some records of initial blood screenings to check for RH negative, etc. So when I did that, I found out that none of that bloodwork had been done. So I went today to get my blood drawn to do all the initial screenings that are usually done at your initial visit once you find out your pregnant. Morale of the story: keep track of your records, what tests are being done, and follow up on your own...especially when you have multiple doctors. We have to be our own advocates.
I also started back to work today after the holiday break. Things pick up quickly too. But I am having to ask people to carry my stuff in to the buildings for me. If any of you know me, I have trouble asking for help too. But I am learning and trying to follow doctor's orders.
Brett was not called back in to work today. He has been layed off for the last couple of weeks. So he is just waiting to find out when he will go back. ?? But our bathroom is finally getting completed that we/he has been working on for a while. :) That makes me happy.
That's all for now.
Shawna
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Happy New Year 2009
Welcome to the Gilbert's Big Adventure...new blog website. Our hopes are to keep family and friends updated with things going on in our lives. 2009 will be bringing many changes for us as we are expecting the arrival of our baby girl this spring...due date is April 21, 2009...yet don't be surprised if she arrives early. She is at 24 weeks gestation and doing well. I continue to have my ultrasounds every two weeks to check my cervical length and blood levels, etc. I do anticipate having to be on bedrest toward the end of this pregnancy, but we are prepared for that.
We want to thank all of our family and friends for their support and prayers thus far. We will keep you all posted.
Love,
Brett and Shawna
We want to thank all of our family and friends for their support and prayers thus far. We will keep you all posted.
Love,
Brett and Shawna
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