I know it's been a while since my last post. Colton has grown so much since my last post when he was 5 weeks old. We've tried to measure him and weigh him on our non-digital scale and he appears to be approximately 22 inches long now and somewhere between 10 and 12 pounds. He is definitely a growing boy!!
He is eating really good. Usually about twice a day he will eat 5 ounces and then the remaining feedings will eat either 3 or 4 ounces (usually closer to the 4 ounce mark). He is still eating every three hours at 7, 10, 1, and 4. He is sleeping really good. He sleeps well during his naps and then at night. Last week he officially started sleeping through the night. YAY!!! Monday and Tuesday mornings he woke up around 6:15, 6:30 and since then I've had to wake him at 7 to eat. A big thanks to the babywise system! This will be great for when I go back to work at the end of July!!
We are still having issues with him having gas. At 6 weeks it seemed to kicked into overdrive. It has started waking him up and then once it passes he goes right back to sleep. It bothers me that it's interfering with his sleep. We had been using mylicon and it just wasn't working anymore. I have been avoiding strong dairy products like milk, ice cream, cheese, sour cream, etc and have cut out all the other gassy foods such as veggies, beans, limited caffeine, etc. It seems like it doesn't matter what I eat he is going to have gas. We've also tried using different bottles and nipples and that didn't work. He didn't eat well off anything but the dr brown bottles. So we have exchange the nipples and are using new nipples on the dr brown's just in case the others were "worn out". And of course we've tried all the different holding positions, rubbing back, patting his bottom, etc and still nothing. Some friends suggested I try using gripe water. I called the pediatrician to see what his thoughts were on gripe water. Since it's herbal ingredients I wanted his opinion as I wasn't sure if herbal things really are good for babies. When your pregnant, it's suggested to not have herbal teas, pills, etc so I was a bit apprehensive without his approval. But he said to go ahead and give it a try. They'd really like for him to stay on the breastmilk if at all possible but if it gets to where it bothers me to much feeling like I'm not helping him, they have given us samples of an infamil formula that is designed for gassy babies. So I've gotten some Colic Calm gripe water and are giving it a try. The dr said that whatever you do, you have to give it at least a week before you decide if it's working or not. The colic calm suggests giving 1/4 to 1/2 the dose to babies who get gassy after every meal before he eats. Then if you need to give more after he eats, you can give another 1/4 to 1/2 dose. So we started it Thursday last week and we are starting to see a little bit of relief. He still has gas, just not as bad. So hopefully after being on it for a week we will see even more results. If not, I'll prolly be ready to throw in the towel and try the Infamil for gassy babies formula the dr gave us. I just feel sorry for the guy. He handles it well. He rarely cries. Every once in a while he will wimper or whine but mostly just gets red in the face, arches his back, and kicks his legs. It's enough without the crying to know he is in pain. The dr said that most babies out grow this by the 3 month mark so hopefully Colton will out grow it within the next 4 weeks and not be one of those babies that remain gassy 4 to 6 months. It's really hard on me as the mom because I feel like it's my job to make sure he doesn't hurt and I can't seem to find any real relief for him. :(
Other than the gas all else is great. He is a happy baby. He has his 2 month appointment with the pediatrician the first week in July. I think he will be due for some shots so that afternoon is bound to not be a fun one. Colton's best friend Miles was born last Monday. He was born at 34 weeks so he is having to spend some time in the NICU. We can't wait for Miles to get home so we can have play dates!!!
Monday, June 27, 2011
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Life At Home
For us Friday the 13th turned out to be a great day. We finally made it home on Friday, May 13. My parents brought the dogs home and they were unsure what to think at first. They were like what the heck is going on but after a few days they settled down and now always check on Colton while he is sleeping. It's pretty sweet to watch them be a little protective over him.
Brian's work let FMLA cover the two weeks that Colton was in the NICU; so our first week home he was able to take a week vacation and be home with Colton and I. That first weekend was a dramatic nightmare for me. I was so tired, exhausted, overwhelmed, stressed and everyone in the world wanted to come over to see Colton. When Sunday night rolled around I lost it. After a house full of people left I started crying and could not stop. Poor Brian, I don't think he knew what to do. He knew I had hit a brick wall so he just hugged me while I cried it out. Since then I've tried to manage the visits with telling times they can come over.
Colton had a dr appointment that Monday morning with the pediatrician. His lungs and heart sounded good and healthy thankfully. When Colton left the NICU on Friday he was back up to his birth weight, 6 lbs 13 oz and at this appointment (3 days later) he weighed 7 lbs 2 oz and was 20 1/2 inches long. We were happy to see that after our stressful weekend, Colton handled it well and was moving in the right direction. We really like our pediatrician. We selected him with the help of Pat (our caretaker for Colton when I go back to work). We learned that one of the NICU nurses uses him for her son, our neighbor uses him and one of our friends uses him for their twins. And they are all spread out over the midcities area and are willing to drive to Hurst for Dr. Deitchman. It's always nice to know others have had good experiences and recommend the dr you randomly selected to use! Since Colton was given a good bill of health, he doesn't have to go back until he is 2 months. I think Dr. D could see the worry in my eyes so he again went over everything with me and reminded me that if I ever have any concerns, their phones are answered 24 hours a day. He is part of cook children's and is officed right next door to the new hospital location in Hurst. After many questions and answers, I felt assured and okay with Colton going till 2 months before being seen again.
I then had my c-section 2 week follow up that afternoon. My incision was healing very well. I was back down to my pre-pregnancy weight already. I can assure you this was not from trying to get there...it's all because of the pumping breastmilk that I am doing. But I certainly don't have the pre-pregnancy body back yet. It has a ways to go in regards to getting back in shape. Dr. Walter's asked what all I do in the gym and when I told her she said, "well lets just start with walking for now." I think she was afraid I would over do it in the gym, lol. She was glad to see Colton was out of the NICU and with us. After a few laughs like we usually have with her, we were on our way home. My next appointment is at the 6 week mark which will be on June 13. She said then we will talk about me working out and birth control. I have to say that the c-section was not bad at all. It was completely the opposite from the horror stories I had heard. I didn't have much pain, was able to hold Colton right after he was born while the dr's were sewing me back up, and had hour recovery with him till it was decided to move him to the NICU. If we decide to have any more babies, I would definitely be up for a c-section again.
The rest of the week went great. Since Brian was home, we had a chance to be together and settle in. You know, figure it all out together. It was really nice that he was able to be home. Since Colton was on a 3 hour feeding schedule in the NICU we kept it and are using it. I planned to use the Babywise system which incorporates a feeding schedule like that so it worked perfectly. In fact, I had it easy because I didn't have to work on getting Colton on a schedule. All I had to start doing was working on his awake time after he ate. He was on a 9, 12, 3, and 6 schedule but just this last week we have moved it to 7, 10, 1, 4 schedule. It seems to work better for us. We start our day at 7am and his last feeding is 10pm. We then let him sleep till he wakes up wanting to eat. He usually wakes anywhere between 3 and 4am and then I have to wake him up at 7 to eat again. With this I am able to get good sleep and feel great during the day. According to the book and other friend testimonies, around 6 to 8 weeks Colton should start sleeping through that middle of night feeding which will be nice for when I go back to work.
That next weekend we had someone come to the house and take newborn pictures. Colton did really well for her. We were concerned since he was tad older that he wouldn't sleep well but she managed to get some good pictures. She had a lot of patience with Colton!! The pictures turned out great! And it was Brian's 40th birthday so we had our first outing that Saturday evening. We took Colton by the church to meet everyone there and thank them in person for all their prayers. We then headed over to Rio Mambo for Brian's birthday dinner party. Several of our friends meet us there to meet Colton and help Brian bring in 40. It was a big night for me with taking Colton out and about like that. I made everyone sanitize their hands before touching Colton, lol. I'm slowing getting more laxed on that but you know after 12 days in the NICU, you become a bit over bearing and paranoid. But the night was successful. Brian had a good time and I managed to not have a breakdown like I did the weekend before.
Brian has since gone back to work. His first week back was welcomed with being on call. And I was welcomed to being home basically alone all week and to weather those crazy storms we had by myself. I'm not a big fan of tornado type weather with having a baby and two dogs to worry about. Poor Brian has had to work nonstop the entire week. And because it was a holiday weekend (memorial day), he had to remain oncall through today, Tuesday. I am very happy that he is off call today as I'm sure he is too.
Colton has been doing great. This last week we had a few days of fussiness. For about 3 days I was ready to pull my hair out. I couldn't seem to make him happy. I tried all the usual things to check, like did he have to burp, did he have a dirty diaper, was he hungry, did he just want to be held, etc. I first thought he was extremely gassy so we tried the mylicon for gas relief. I've even cut out most dairy and chocolate from my diet in case it was those two things. I then realized it was because we hadn't been swaddling him. He had been getting stronger and escaping from it so we thought that he really didn't like it. So the last several days we just wrapped him lightly with his arms out. He seemed okay with it. He was sleeping and seemed happy for a while till I guess he finally had enough of it. Apparently it overstimulated him because as soon as I swaddled him tight again he was happy as can be. Miracle cure!! It is hard though to get him swaddled tight because he has a lot of strength in those arms. I'm going to try a few of those blankets that make swaddling easy and see if that helps. I've also ventured out with him by myself. I've met friends for lunch, been to dinner with my mom, visited a friend on bedrest in the hospital, and even had a successful shopping trip to Target. I'm slowly getting used to and being comfortable with taking him out and about.
Time is flying by so fast. Yesterday started Colton's 5th week of life. I don't want him to grow up. I love all his little coo noises, his smiles, and how he lays his head on my shoulder & wraps his arms around my neck when we have what I call mommy time. I know we have many more fun times ahead but man I really enjoy this stage. It's a feeling I cannot explain. My maternity leave is almost half way over and I am so sad!!! I can already tell you that I am not going to want to go back to work. But I will have no choice and shall survive (since I have to). One thing I know for sure is that I love be a mommy!!!!!!
Brian's work let FMLA cover the two weeks that Colton was in the NICU; so our first week home he was able to take a week vacation and be home with Colton and I. That first weekend was a dramatic nightmare for me. I was so tired, exhausted, overwhelmed, stressed and everyone in the world wanted to come over to see Colton. When Sunday night rolled around I lost it. After a house full of people left I started crying and could not stop. Poor Brian, I don't think he knew what to do. He knew I had hit a brick wall so he just hugged me while I cried it out. Since then I've tried to manage the visits with telling times they can come over.
Colton had a dr appointment that Monday morning with the pediatrician. His lungs and heart sounded good and healthy thankfully. When Colton left the NICU on Friday he was back up to his birth weight, 6 lbs 13 oz and at this appointment (3 days later) he weighed 7 lbs 2 oz and was 20 1/2 inches long. We were happy to see that after our stressful weekend, Colton handled it well and was moving in the right direction. We really like our pediatrician. We selected him with the help of Pat (our caretaker for Colton when I go back to work). We learned that one of the NICU nurses uses him for her son, our neighbor uses him and one of our friends uses him for their twins. And they are all spread out over the midcities area and are willing to drive to Hurst for Dr. Deitchman. It's always nice to know others have had good experiences and recommend the dr you randomly selected to use! Since Colton was given a good bill of health, he doesn't have to go back until he is 2 months. I think Dr. D could see the worry in my eyes so he again went over everything with me and reminded me that if I ever have any concerns, their phones are answered 24 hours a day. He is part of cook children's and is officed right next door to the new hospital location in Hurst. After many questions and answers, I felt assured and okay with Colton going till 2 months before being seen again.
I then had my c-section 2 week follow up that afternoon. My incision was healing very well. I was back down to my pre-pregnancy weight already. I can assure you this was not from trying to get there...it's all because of the pumping breastmilk that I am doing. But I certainly don't have the pre-pregnancy body back yet. It has a ways to go in regards to getting back in shape. Dr. Walter's asked what all I do in the gym and when I told her she said, "well lets just start with walking for now." I think she was afraid I would over do it in the gym, lol. She was glad to see Colton was out of the NICU and with us. After a few laughs like we usually have with her, we were on our way home. My next appointment is at the 6 week mark which will be on June 13. She said then we will talk about me working out and birth control. I have to say that the c-section was not bad at all. It was completely the opposite from the horror stories I had heard. I didn't have much pain, was able to hold Colton right after he was born while the dr's were sewing me back up, and had hour recovery with him till it was decided to move him to the NICU. If we decide to have any more babies, I would definitely be up for a c-section again.
The rest of the week went great. Since Brian was home, we had a chance to be together and settle in. You know, figure it all out together. It was really nice that he was able to be home. Since Colton was on a 3 hour feeding schedule in the NICU we kept it and are using it. I planned to use the Babywise system which incorporates a feeding schedule like that so it worked perfectly. In fact, I had it easy because I didn't have to work on getting Colton on a schedule. All I had to start doing was working on his awake time after he ate. He was on a 9, 12, 3, and 6 schedule but just this last week we have moved it to 7, 10, 1, 4 schedule. It seems to work better for us. We start our day at 7am and his last feeding is 10pm. We then let him sleep till he wakes up wanting to eat. He usually wakes anywhere between 3 and 4am and then I have to wake him up at 7 to eat again. With this I am able to get good sleep and feel great during the day. According to the book and other friend testimonies, around 6 to 8 weeks Colton should start sleeping through that middle of night feeding which will be nice for when I go back to work.
That next weekend we had someone come to the house and take newborn pictures. Colton did really well for her. We were concerned since he was tad older that he wouldn't sleep well but she managed to get some good pictures. She had a lot of patience with Colton!! The pictures turned out great! And it was Brian's 40th birthday so we had our first outing that Saturday evening. We took Colton by the church to meet everyone there and thank them in person for all their prayers. We then headed over to Rio Mambo for Brian's birthday dinner party. Several of our friends meet us there to meet Colton and help Brian bring in 40. It was a big night for me with taking Colton out and about like that. I made everyone sanitize their hands before touching Colton, lol. I'm slowing getting more laxed on that but you know after 12 days in the NICU, you become a bit over bearing and paranoid. But the night was successful. Brian had a good time and I managed to not have a breakdown like I did the weekend before.
Brian has since gone back to work. His first week back was welcomed with being on call. And I was welcomed to being home basically alone all week and to weather those crazy storms we had by myself. I'm not a big fan of tornado type weather with having a baby and two dogs to worry about. Poor Brian has had to work nonstop the entire week. And because it was a holiday weekend (memorial day), he had to remain oncall through today, Tuesday. I am very happy that he is off call today as I'm sure he is too.
Colton has been doing great. This last week we had a few days of fussiness. For about 3 days I was ready to pull my hair out. I couldn't seem to make him happy. I tried all the usual things to check, like did he have to burp, did he have a dirty diaper, was he hungry, did he just want to be held, etc. I first thought he was extremely gassy so we tried the mylicon for gas relief. I've even cut out most dairy and chocolate from my diet in case it was those two things. I then realized it was because we hadn't been swaddling him. He had been getting stronger and escaping from it so we thought that he really didn't like it. So the last several days we just wrapped him lightly with his arms out. He seemed okay with it. He was sleeping and seemed happy for a while till I guess he finally had enough of it. Apparently it overstimulated him because as soon as I swaddled him tight again he was happy as can be. Miracle cure!! It is hard though to get him swaddled tight because he has a lot of strength in those arms. I'm going to try a few of those blankets that make swaddling easy and see if that helps. I've also ventured out with him by myself. I've met friends for lunch, been to dinner with my mom, visited a friend on bedrest in the hospital, and even had a successful shopping trip to Target. I'm slowly getting used to and being comfortable with taking him out and about.
Time is flying by so fast. Yesterday started Colton's 5th week of life. I don't want him to grow up. I love all his little coo noises, his smiles, and how he lays his head on my shoulder & wraps his arms around my neck when we have what I call mommy time. I know we have many more fun times ahead but man I really enjoy this stage. It's a feeling I cannot explain. My maternity leave is almost half way over and I am so sad!!! I can already tell you that I am not going to want to go back to work. But I will have no choice and shall survive (since I have to). One thing I know for sure is that I love be a mommy!!!!!!
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Colton's 1st Week
Colton Keith Plemons was born on Monday, May 2, 2011 at 9:27am. He weighed 6 lbs, 13 oz and is 20 inches long. He is such a handsome guy. He was born with a full head of dark hair, a beautiful color, and has his daddy's big feet and weird toes, lol. We love him to pieces. He is our angel sent from heaven!!
The c-section went great. Once the process started, it only took 5 minutes for Colton to be born. During his grand entrance, he tried crying before being all the way out and swallowed some amniotic fluid. We could hear Dr. Walter's saying hang on little guy, don't cry yet, lol. Then the next thing we know he is being held over the drape and looking down at us. He was the most beautiful sight we've ever seen. They took him across the room to clean him up and weigh him. Brian got to take pictures while they were doing that. Then they brought him over to me and laid him on my chest while the dr's were finishing up on my stomach. We were in recovery at approximately 10am.
We stayed in recovery for about an hour and half. We had some good skin to skin time and then we tried to breast feed. He would latch on but not suck. He kept doing a grunting noise and the nurse was a bit concerned about it. So she would try to upset him and get him to cry. He'd cry but not the full lung actioned cry that they wanted to hear. So they decided to put him in NICU for about 4 to 6 hours to help him transition (womb to the world). They said that during a vaginal delivery, while in labor and the baby is traveling in the birth canal, their body is given signals from the labor to start flushing the fluids in their bodies to prepare for birth. So with a c-section, the baby's body doesn't get those signals and are born with extra fluid in their systems and lungs. Plus he swallowed extra amniotic fluids during birth when he tried crying. So we agreed that putting him in the NICU for a few hours is a good idea. I was taken to the room so our visitors can see us. Brian was able to take everyone one at a time to the NICU to meet and see Colton. During the day, they did an xray to see just how much fluid Colton had in his lungs and the determined that he had a bit more than anticipated and would probably need 48 to 72 hours for the fluids to dry out. That was hard news for me because I haven't seen him at all at this point since we were in the recovery room. Finally at 8pm I was taken to see him. Everything was looking good. They had him on the oxygen nostril things to help dry out his lungs and make sure he was maintaining good oxygen in his blood. That had to remain at a 92 or above. All was good, he was maintaining the levels he needed so they let me hold him. Thats when the NICU nurses took a picture of the three of us and printed it out for us. It was our first family photo. We left thinking that he would more than likely be moved to our room that next morning.
Bad news coming: Around 3:30am, we received a phone call from the NICU. Colton had apparently developed a tear in his lung causing his lung to collapse. They needed to put him in an oxygen bin so that the increased oxygen can help heal the tear. We asked if we could see him. They suggested we wait about an hour because they were working to get him calm and relaxed while under the oxygen bin. We waited an hour and went to go see our little guy. We asked how this happened. They said that it can just happen. They believe that Colton's lungs are about two weeks behind the rest of his body. The lungs appeared to be acting as if they were 36 weeks. They are sticking together rather than staying apart and having to work extra hard to breathe thus causing a tear.
More bad news coming: We finally got in to see him and they were trying to determine how to remove the air that has leaked in from the tear. Normally they would insert a tube but they didn't want to do that in his case. They told us the tear was in his left lung which is the same side of the heart. They were afraid to use a pump in fear they could nick the heart or something like that. So they decided to eliminate the air by a needle and hoped that the tear was healing so that more air didn't leak in. Finding out that it was his left side instead of the right side opened another door of tears for us. We have now gone to a week or longer of potentially being in the NICU.
Worst news coming: We spent Tuesday afternoon in tears and fear. The dr came in to give us an update. Colton has been diagnosed with Pulmonary Hypertension. Basically it stemed back to his lungs. From what I understood, his blood pressure was unbalanced in his lungs which causes an unbalance within the heart. One side of the heart has to work harder and causes that side of the heart to enlarge. He has been deemed very sick and in critical condition. She said the fact that he is considered a full term baby gives him great odds and is confident he will be okay. He should be able to withstand the treatments they needed to do more than a premie baby would be able to. They needed to insert a ventilator and warned us that it could harm the tear in his lung. He will also being getting several iv inserts and to prepare him being all wired up. They also are putting a lamp on him to help treat a mild case of jaundice. This was the least of our worries as many babies develop jaundice and is not critical. We are now looking at ???? of how long he will be in the NICU. As they day went on, we learned the tear on his lung was unaffected and healing just fine. (Finally a bit of good news!!) But then a nurse came in shortly thereafter, asking us to sign a form granting permission to give Colton a blood transfusion. They've been taking so much blood for lab work that his little body just can't reproduce enough blood fast enough and they want to make sure that he has enough blood to keep his body strong. So of course we gave permission. That evening they allowed me to wrap a blanket around me for a while and then placed it around him to sleep in. Besides, pumping like a mad women and storing milk for when he gets to eat, it was all I had to hold onto in a form of trying to help him. You feel so helpless and like your letting them down when they are sick like this. The way I was feeling is something that I cannot be put into words. This was a very scary day!!!
Good news coming: The next morning (Wednesday), they told us that they have actually been able to reduce the amount of antibiotics for his sickness. That was great news because he is starting to be able to maintain some balanced pressure levels himself. Their plan for the day was to let him rest and relax. He had a big day the day before with a lot of poking, xrays, labs, diagnosing, etc. Then that evening, he was close to being completely off the meds. That night we refreshed him with another blanket that I wrapped around my body for a couple of hours.
More good news coming: The next morning (Thursday), he was completely off that medicine. His echocardiogram showed his heart was normal size and working appropriately and his lungs were maintaining a balanced pressure all on their own. It was a shock and surprise to us and the dr's. They were highly impressed with how well he was doing and so quickly. Maybe I'm wrong but I truly believe or want to believe that the blankets helped him feel close to what he knew and that is me. The goal for the day is to continue to get his lungs to mature. He is on steriods for that, a ventilator, oxygen, IV for nutrition, lamp for jaundice, and other things that I'm just not familiar with. They started giving him some breast milk through a line that goes directly into his stomach. It basically builds his stomach up to be able to accept it. Thankfully his body had no problems digesting it. As the day went on, his oxygen levels were slowly coming down and he was picking up breathing more and more over the ventilator. He was being strong and heading in the right direction. I was able to check his temperature, change his diaper and hold his hand for a while. Late the evening and into early, early Friday morning he was maintaining normal levels. Needless to say we went to bed extremely happy that night!
More good news: I should have been released yesterday from the hospital but my dr said that technically with a c-section insurance will pay up to four days so that meant I could be discharged today instead. So I was discharged at 3pm but because the maternity floor had low attendance and empty rooms, they allowed us to stay as a courtesy. Basically we are here but not here. We are on our own for food, my medicine, etc. As long as the room is not needed, we can stay while he is in NICU. They think that we are good through Sunday and maybe possibly Monday. I cannot tell you how thankful I am for this. I prefer being down the hall much more than across town. Friday morning visit we learned he maintained normal levels all night. So we were waiting for his neonatelist specialist to get in and see what she wanted to do. Next thing we knew, she was in our room and giving us an update. They took the ventilator off because his breathing was fantastic and put the nasal thing in to continue oxygen for a bit and then will be taking the oxygen away with leaving only the air pressure for a while. They plan to continue to feed him thru the stomach line today and will be taking another line out of his belly button shortly that was used to draw blood so that he didn't have to be sticked so many times. Once that line comes out, we will be able to hold him. She anticipated that by 3:00 we should be able to hold him. Out came tears of joy and happiness!! I could not wait for 3:00 to get here. When it finally got here and they laid him in my arms I just cried and cried. It was the best feeling in the world. He immediately started turning his head towards me to start rooting. We got good giggles out of that. His feeding times are 9, 12, 3, and 6 so she put some breast milk into his stomach line and within minutes he was smiling and going to sleep. He loves to be swaddled and in mommy's arms. During feeding times I get to also check his temperature and change his diaper. We also introduced the pacifier to him and let me tell you he loves that thing. He never wants to take it out, lol! So needless to say I made every feeding time except for the 3am one. I was convinced that I needed to sleep between the 12 and 6 feeding times. It took some convincing but I finally agreed, lol. He also managed to go all day without oxygen and was only using the air pressure. I guess the pressure is used to remind the baby to breathe...basically it's just part of the weaning process.
Saturday morning, Colton continued to stay off the oxygen all night and maintain good levels. So they took the nasal thing off. They also took one of his iv's out since he no longer needs any meds. He still has an iv in his foot for the fluids they are using to offset the milk amount he is getting. Today we started bottle feeding. They said it may take some time for him to catch on since he didn't get to develop those instincts right after birth. He is doing pretty good with it. He is getting a small amount for now but is able to get is all down with some coaxing. Him loving the pacifier is helping him get it down faster. Tomorrow the milk portions increase which means the iv fluid reduces. And we also have our first breast feeding attempt tomorrow at 3. We gave him a bath and that was fun for me...not so much for him. But after we had him swaddled he was a happy camper. So basically at this point all we are waiting on is the jaundice to away and him eating good. They seem to think about one more day under the jaundice lights and the eating....well that is up to Colton. They will then release him and we spend an overnight here in a room together then go home. We are getting very, very close!!!!
Colton has had many people praying for him. All I can say is thank you! Thank you so much for praying for our little guy. Those prayers cannot be thanked enough. Colton felt the love because he recovered much faster than we all anticipated. Fellowship Church has also been a huge help and pray group for us. My greeter team has been praying like crazy and we have had a few visitors from the pastor group come here to pray with us in our room.
The c-section went great. Once the process started, it only took 5 minutes for Colton to be born. During his grand entrance, he tried crying before being all the way out and swallowed some amniotic fluid. We could hear Dr. Walter's saying hang on little guy, don't cry yet, lol. Then the next thing we know he is being held over the drape and looking down at us. He was the most beautiful sight we've ever seen. They took him across the room to clean him up and weigh him. Brian got to take pictures while they were doing that. Then they brought him over to me and laid him on my chest while the dr's were finishing up on my stomach. We were in recovery at approximately 10am.
We stayed in recovery for about an hour and half. We had some good skin to skin time and then we tried to breast feed. He would latch on but not suck. He kept doing a grunting noise and the nurse was a bit concerned about it. So she would try to upset him and get him to cry. He'd cry but not the full lung actioned cry that they wanted to hear. So they decided to put him in NICU for about 4 to 6 hours to help him transition (womb to the world). They said that during a vaginal delivery, while in labor and the baby is traveling in the birth canal, their body is given signals from the labor to start flushing the fluids in their bodies to prepare for birth. So with a c-section, the baby's body doesn't get those signals and are born with extra fluid in their systems and lungs. Plus he swallowed extra amniotic fluids during birth when he tried crying. So we agreed that putting him in the NICU for a few hours is a good idea. I was taken to the room so our visitors can see us. Brian was able to take everyone one at a time to the NICU to meet and see Colton. During the day, they did an xray to see just how much fluid Colton had in his lungs and the determined that he had a bit more than anticipated and would probably need 48 to 72 hours for the fluids to dry out. That was hard news for me because I haven't seen him at all at this point since we were in the recovery room. Finally at 8pm I was taken to see him. Everything was looking good. They had him on the oxygen nostril things to help dry out his lungs and make sure he was maintaining good oxygen in his blood. That had to remain at a 92 or above. All was good, he was maintaining the levels he needed so they let me hold him. Thats when the NICU nurses took a picture of the three of us and printed it out for us. It was our first family photo. We left thinking that he would more than likely be moved to our room that next morning.
Bad news coming: Around 3:30am, we received a phone call from the NICU. Colton had apparently developed a tear in his lung causing his lung to collapse. They needed to put him in an oxygen bin so that the increased oxygen can help heal the tear. We asked if we could see him. They suggested we wait about an hour because they were working to get him calm and relaxed while under the oxygen bin. We waited an hour and went to go see our little guy. We asked how this happened. They said that it can just happen. They believe that Colton's lungs are about two weeks behind the rest of his body. The lungs appeared to be acting as if they were 36 weeks. They are sticking together rather than staying apart and having to work extra hard to breathe thus causing a tear.
More bad news coming: We finally got in to see him and they were trying to determine how to remove the air that has leaked in from the tear. Normally they would insert a tube but they didn't want to do that in his case. They told us the tear was in his left lung which is the same side of the heart. They were afraid to use a pump in fear they could nick the heart or something like that. So they decided to eliminate the air by a needle and hoped that the tear was healing so that more air didn't leak in. Finding out that it was his left side instead of the right side opened another door of tears for us. We have now gone to a week or longer of potentially being in the NICU.
Worst news coming: We spent Tuesday afternoon in tears and fear. The dr came in to give us an update. Colton has been diagnosed with Pulmonary Hypertension. Basically it stemed back to his lungs. From what I understood, his blood pressure was unbalanced in his lungs which causes an unbalance within the heart. One side of the heart has to work harder and causes that side of the heart to enlarge. He has been deemed very sick and in critical condition. She said the fact that he is considered a full term baby gives him great odds and is confident he will be okay. He should be able to withstand the treatments they needed to do more than a premie baby would be able to. They needed to insert a ventilator and warned us that it could harm the tear in his lung. He will also being getting several iv inserts and to prepare him being all wired up. They also are putting a lamp on him to help treat a mild case of jaundice. This was the least of our worries as many babies develop jaundice and is not critical. We are now looking at ???? of how long he will be in the NICU. As they day went on, we learned the tear on his lung was unaffected and healing just fine. (Finally a bit of good news!!) But then a nurse came in shortly thereafter, asking us to sign a form granting permission to give Colton a blood transfusion. They've been taking so much blood for lab work that his little body just can't reproduce enough blood fast enough and they want to make sure that he has enough blood to keep his body strong. So of course we gave permission. That evening they allowed me to wrap a blanket around me for a while and then placed it around him to sleep in. Besides, pumping like a mad women and storing milk for when he gets to eat, it was all I had to hold onto in a form of trying to help him. You feel so helpless and like your letting them down when they are sick like this. The way I was feeling is something that I cannot be put into words. This was a very scary day!!!
Good news coming: The next morning (Wednesday), they told us that they have actually been able to reduce the amount of antibiotics for his sickness. That was great news because he is starting to be able to maintain some balanced pressure levels himself. Their plan for the day was to let him rest and relax. He had a big day the day before with a lot of poking, xrays, labs, diagnosing, etc. Then that evening, he was close to being completely off the meds. That night we refreshed him with another blanket that I wrapped around my body for a couple of hours.
More good news coming: The next morning (Thursday), he was completely off that medicine. His echocardiogram showed his heart was normal size and working appropriately and his lungs were maintaining a balanced pressure all on their own. It was a shock and surprise to us and the dr's. They were highly impressed with how well he was doing and so quickly. Maybe I'm wrong but I truly believe or want to believe that the blankets helped him feel close to what he knew and that is me. The goal for the day is to continue to get his lungs to mature. He is on steriods for that, a ventilator, oxygen, IV for nutrition, lamp for jaundice, and other things that I'm just not familiar with. They started giving him some breast milk through a line that goes directly into his stomach. It basically builds his stomach up to be able to accept it. Thankfully his body had no problems digesting it. As the day went on, his oxygen levels were slowly coming down and he was picking up breathing more and more over the ventilator. He was being strong and heading in the right direction. I was able to check his temperature, change his diaper and hold his hand for a while. Late the evening and into early, early Friday morning he was maintaining normal levels. Needless to say we went to bed extremely happy that night!
More good news: I should have been released yesterday from the hospital but my dr said that technically with a c-section insurance will pay up to four days so that meant I could be discharged today instead. So I was discharged at 3pm but because the maternity floor had low attendance and empty rooms, they allowed us to stay as a courtesy. Basically we are here but not here. We are on our own for food, my medicine, etc. As long as the room is not needed, we can stay while he is in NICU. They think that we are good through Sunday and maybe possibly Monday. I cannot tell you how thankful I am for this. I prefer being down the hall much more than across town. Friday morning visit we learned he maintained normal levels all night. So we were waiting for his neonatelist specialist to get in and see what she wanted to do. Next thing we knew, she was in our room and giving us an update. They took the ventilator off because his breathing was fantastic and put the nasal thing in to continue oxygen for a bit and then will be taking the oxygen away with leaving only the air pressure for a while. They plan to continue to feed him thru the stomach line today and will be taking another line out of his belly button shortly that was used to draw blood so that he didn't have to be sticked so many times. Once that line comes out, we will be able to hold him. She anticipated that by 3:00 we should be able to hold him. Out came tears of joy and happiness!! I could not wait for 3:00 to get here. When it finally got here and they laid him in my arms I just cried and cried. It was the best feeling in the world. He immediately started turning his head towards me to start rooting. We got good giggles out of that. His feeding times are 9, 12, 3, and 6 so she put some breast milk into his stomach line and within minutes he was smiling and going to sleep. He loves to be swaddled and in mommy's arms. During feeding times I get to also check his temperature and change his diaper. We also introduced the pacifier to him and let me tell you he loves that thing. He never wants to take it out, lol! So needless to say I made every feeding time except for the 3am one. I was convinced that I needed to sleep between the 12 and 6 feeding times. It took some convincing but I finally agreed, lol. He also managed to go all day without oxygen and was only using the air pressure. I guess the pressure is used to remind the baby to breathe...basically it's just part of the weaning process.
Saturday morning, Colton continued to stay off the oxygen all night and maintain good levels. So they took the nasal thing off. They also took one of his iv's out since he no longer needs any meds. He still has an iv in his foot for the fluids they are using to offset the milk amount he is getting. Today we started bottle feeding. They said it may take some time for him to catch on since he didn't get to develop those instincts right after birth. He is doing pretty good with it. He is getting a small amount for now but is able to get is all down with some coaxing. Him loving the pacifier is helping him get it down faster. Tomorrow the milk portions increase which means the iv fluid reduces. And we also have our first breast feeding attempt tomorrow at 3. We gave him a bath and that was fun for me...not so much for him. But after we had him swaddled he was a happy camper. So basically at this point all we are waiting on is the jaundice to away and him eating good. They seem to think about one more day under the jaundice lights and the eating....well that is up to Colton. They will then release him and we spend an overnight here in a room together then go home. We are getting very, very close!!!!
Colton has had many people praying for him. All I can say is thank you! Thank you so much for praying for our little guy. Those prayers cannot be thanked enough. Colton felt the love because he recovered much faster than we all anticipated. Fellowship Church has also been a huge help and pray group for us. My greeter team has been praying like crazy and we have had a few visitors from the pastor group come here to pray with us in our room.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Baby Shower Pictures - March 19, 2011
The beautiful hostess
Teal, Me, and Mom
Another shot of us 3
Cake
Gift Table
Inside Table & Diaper Cake
2nd Diaper Cake
Bear's Big Brother Shirt
Anna's The Big Sister
Table Decor
Blanket that has Bears & Rocking Horses on it
Little Camo Boots - Colton's ready to go hunting
Gotta fix that earring
Me
Close up me
What you say?
So many gifts to open - Good thing I have Anna & Bear to help
Cute little hat
Anna Banana helping me
Love to laugh
Mini Pooper Shirt!
Teal & Bear Bear
Teal & Riley
Thursday, April 28, 2011
4 Days To Go
Yesterday was our last dr appointment. Colton will be here on Monday, May 2 at 8:00am. She gave us the do's and don'ts about things to do the night before, things to bring, etc. We have to be at the hospital at 6am for all the prep work. Brian was like man thats early. I said whatever, I will be awake eagerly awaiting for the clock to hit, lol. I know I won't be able to sleep Sunday. I am so freaking excited I can hardly contain myself.
I've been so bored this week at home. I'm not a good sit at home and do nothing person. Thank goodness for facebook and words with friends. Those two things have helped keep me entertained. Oh, and the Oprah Network channel. I've learned a lot about The Judds this past week. Poor Naomi had a rough life growing up.
We traded in my car for a small suv earlier this week. We decided to go with the GMC Terrain. We went to look at the GMC Acadia and it looked to mini vanish for me. I just can't go there yet..if ever, lol. So then I was between the Terrain and the Cadillac SRX but after comparing prices and options we went with the Terrain. I was able to keep every option I had my in Lexus IS and actually gain a few more and the best part, my payments went down. That was nice since we have child care around the corner. We didn't need anything big like a Tahoe because Brian has a big truck and need something with good gas mileage. The Terrain is big enough that we can all fit comfortably and even one more kiddo if we choose to have another. The dealership had to search long and hard to find the exact one I wanted. I was extremely picky on the options I wanted and of course wouldn't settle for anything but one specific color. They finally found one in Louisianna and did a dealer change. We picked it up on Tuesday night. I cried all the way to the dealership. It's not so much of giving up my car which I loved to death but more about the reality of this all. Our lives are fixing to change dramatically, for the good of course, but it's a change that brings so many unknowns. Brian was laughing at me and saying we can keep the car, you don't have to get rid of it. Between sobs I'd try to say it's not just about the car, lol. I did love that car, loved it so much that I had two of them in a row but it really isn't just about the car. I guess I'm just extremely hormonal with fear and happiness all at the same time.
Anyways. I hope these last four days go fast. This pregnancy road has been stressful, fun, and exciting all at the same time but I am so over it at this point. I am ready to finally meet and hold Colton. I've had several people ask which hospital we will be at. We will be at Baylor in Grapevine. It's right at the Highway 26 exit off 114. We will be there Monday thru Thursday morning so come see us and meet Colton!!! Hopefully my next post will be with pictures of our little prince!!!
I've been so bored this week at home. I'm not a good sit at home and do nothing person. Thank goodness for facebook and words with friends. Those two things have helped keep me entertained. Oh, and the Oprah Network channel. I've learned a lot about The Judds this past week. Poor Naomi had a rough life growing up.
We traded in my car for a small suv earlier this week. We decided to go with the GMC Terrain. We went to look at the GMC Acadia and it looked to mini vanish for me. I just can't go there yet..if ever, lol. So then I was between the Terrain and the Cadillac SRX but after comparing prices and options we went with the Terrain. I was able to keep every option I had my in Lexus IS and actually gain a few more and the best part, my payments went down. That was nice since we have child care around the corner. We didn't need anything big like a Tahoe because Brian has a big truck and need something with good gas mileage. The Terrain is big enough that we can all fit comfortably and even one more kiddo if we choose to have another. The dealership had to search long and hard to find the exact one I wanted. I was extremely picky on the options I wanted and of course wouldn't settle for anything but one specific color. They finally found one in Louisianna and did a dealer change. We picked it up on Tuesday night. I cried all the way to the dealership. It's not so much of giving up my car which I loved to death but more about the reality of this all. Our lives are fixing to change dramatically, for the good of course, but it's a change that brings so many unknowns. Brian was laughing at me and saying we can keep the car, you don't have to get rid of it. Between sobs I'd try to say it's not just about the car, lol. I did love that car, loved it so much that I had two of them in a row but it really isn't just about the car. I guess I'm just extremely hormonal with fear and happiness all at the same time.
Anyways. I hope these last four days go fast. This pregnancy road has been stressful, fun, and exciting all at the same time but I am so over it at this point. I am ready to finally meet and hold Colton. I've had several people ask which hospital we will be at. We will be at Baylor in Grapevine. It's right at the Highway 26 exit off 114. We will be there Monday thru Thursday morning so come see us and meet Colton!!! Hopefully my next post will be with pictures of our little prince!!!
Thursday, April 21, 2011
The Date Is Set
Today's sonogram was mind blowing. Colton weighs approximately 6 lbs 13 oz and is in the 78th percentile. His head measures 39 weeks 3 days (OH LORDY) and the rest of his body is at 37 weeks 3 days. Today we are 36 weeks, 3 days. He is a big baby boy!! I am soooo glad he is still breech because the idea of pushing that head terrifies me! haha The poor little guy takes up my whole stomach. I bet he is tired of being scrunched up with his legs being over his head. I feel bad that I don't have any more room to give him.
The fluid levels are normal and there is no protein in the urine but my blood pressure is running high. The last few days I've been feeling weird, not really bad but just not normal. We have hit that time frame that issues can start to develop. So she has ordered me to be on bed rest for the remainder of the pregnancy. She specifically said no more work or working out. It doesn't appear preclampsia has set in but she wants me to rest and relax to help prevent it. They took blood work that will for sure determine that I don't have preclampsia. Those results will be here tomorrow. She said that she will only call if results are not good. So no call is good! Pray for no call. All else is perfect. She asked us what day we'd like to do the c-section during that first week in May and we said Monday, May 2. So Monday, May 2 is the day our big guy will be here. They will set it up with the hospital and then let us know the time of day at our next appointment which is on Wednesday. So I only have to be on bed rest for about a week & half which is not to bad. Makes you wonder how much more he will grow this last bit. Could you imagine if he had the full 3 1/2 weeks to grow...oh man.
Can you believe that in a week and half we will have a baby?! We are so excited and cannot wait to meet our big guy. Time has gone so fast. I think I will have to go back and read all my posts to reflect over all of this while I am "resting" this next week.
Tonight I had my last hair appointment before he is here and tomorrow I am suppose to test drive a new vehicle. I'm not sure where that falls into the resting bit but she did say do the things you need to do and that is something we need to do. We learned last weekend that my car is no bueno with the car seat. It is much to small for all of us. With Brian being 6'6" no one can sit behind him and with the car seat behind me, my knees are nearly to my chest. And because the back doors don't open all the way, it's an act of Congress to get the seat into the base without feeling like you will be jostling the baby all around. So Brian will do all the driving to the dealership and back home. I will test drive and I guess sign my name on the paperwork if I like it. Otherwise that is all we have to do but wait for his arrival.
Here is a picture of the belly we took on Tuesday night, it was 36 weeks, 1 day. I still can't believe an almost 7 pound baby is in there right now...crazy!!!
We hope everyone has a great Easter weekend!
xoxoxo
The fluid levels are normal and there is no protein in the urine but my blood pressure is running high. The last few days I've been feeling weird, not really bad but just not normal. We have hit that time frame that issues can start to develop. So she has ordered me to be on bed rest for the remainder of the pregnancy. She specifically said no more work or working out. It doesn't appear preclampsia has set in but she wants me to rest and relax to help prevent it. They took blood work that will for sure determine that I don't have preclampsia. Those results will be here tomorrow. She said that she will only call if results are not good. So no call is good! Pray for no call. All else is perfect. She asked us what day we'd like to do the c-section during that first week in May and we said Monday, May 2. So Monday, May 2 is the day our big guy will be here. They will set it up with the hospital and then let us know the time of day at our next appointment which is on Wednesday. So I only have to be on bed rest for about a week & half which is not to bad. Makes you wonder how much more he will grow this last bit. Could you imagine if he had the full 3 1/2 weeks to grow...oh man.
Can you believe that in a week and half we will have a baby?! We are so excited and cannot wait to meet our big guy. Time has gone so fast. I think I will have to go back and read all my posts to reflect over all of this while I am "resting" this next week.
Tonight I had my last hair appointment before he is here and tomorrow I am suppose to test drive a new vehicle. I'm not sure where that falls into the resting bit but she did say do the things you need to do and that is something we need to do. We learned last weekend that my car is no bueno with the car seat. It is much to small for all of us. With Brian being 6'6" no one can sit behind him and with the car seat behind me, my knees are nearly to my chest. And because the back doors don't open all the way, it's an act of Congress to get the seat into the base without feeling like you will be jostling the baby all around. So Brian will do all the driving to the dealership and back home. I will test drive and I guess sign my name on the paperwork if I like it. Otherwise that is all we have to do but wait for his arrival.
Here is a picture of the belly we took on Tuesday night, it was 36 weeks, 1 day. I still can't believe an almost 7 pound baby is in there right now...crazy!!!
We hope everyone has a great Easter weekend!
xoxoxo
Monday, April 11, 2011
3 Weeks To Go!
Our appointment went well on Friday but we were a little bummed during the sonogram. They weren't doing measurements this time. That is so much fun getting to find out how much he has grown over the last few weeks. Oh well, maybe next time. They still checked the fluid levels for early signs of preclampsia and thankfully they were still at normal levels. Then they also monitored his movements such as the hand flexing, etc and his breathing skills. He is a breathing and moving machine! Heartbeat is strong as usual, around 150. Dr. Walter's is highly impressed with how well we are doing. I've gained another 2 pounds so I think I've officially hit the 20 pound gained marked. My stomached measured at 34 which was right on for the number of weeks we were last week. Dr. Walter's was highly impressed with how well I have done during the pregnancy. I don't have any heart burn problems, haven't gained to much weight, blood pressure is staying good, no stretch marks, didn't have any nausea in the beginning, no cravings (ARG)...the list can go on. The only issues I've really had is tiredness, back pain here and there, a few migraines, and this darn carpal tunnel. The carpal tunnel is getting pretty bad in my right hand. I have to pay attention to how I pick things up or place my hand before putting pressure on it and they (my hands) wake me up all the time with that tingly sensation. She suggested putting ice on both my wrists before bedtime and then immediately put the wrist braces on to sleep in. The ice has helped some. My hands/arms don't seem to wake me up as often as they did before. I just hope it doesn't get any worse over these last few weeks. But I guess if this is the worse symptom I get from this pregnancy, I considered myself very lucky!
Our little Colton is still breach. She told me that I need to start preparing myself mentally for a c-section. She doesn't believe it will be possible for him to turn with his size and how his legs are positioned over his head. She said it is safe to tell my work that he will be here the first week in May. She said there is absolutely no benefit to him or I by going past that point. All we would be doing is opening the door for health issues to set in. Because I have done so well and seem to be staying healthy, she is letting me go two weeks instead of coming in next week. So Thursday 4/21 is our next appointment. On that day, if he is still breach she is confirming a c-section and will set the date and time. If he has somehow turned, she is still setting the inducement date. We will then have another appointment the following week, and then that next week, Colton will be here!! Since my due date is Monday 5/16, I'm guessing she will pick Monday May 2 since that is the exact day I will be 38 weeks. Or if she lets us pick the day during that week, we are opting for Monday May 2. We are thinking we mine as well start that week on a good note!!
We are all ready for him. All we have left to do is put the car seat bases in our vehicles. We plan to do that this weekend. Brian thinks I'm being paranoid because I plan on taking our vehicles to the police station and letting them inspect to ensure properly installed. All the stations around here offer it for free and I figure there is nothing to lose by being on the safe side!! Once those are in, we have nothing left to do. I hope these three weeks go by fast....I am SO ready to meet our little guy!!!!
Our little Colton is still breach. She told me that I need to start preparing myself mentally for a c-section. She doesn't believe it will be possible for him to turn with his size and how his legs are positioned over his head. She said it is safe to tell my work that he will be here the first week in May. She said there is absolutely no benefit to him or I by going past that point. All we would be doing is opening the door for health issues to set in. Because I have done so well and seem to be staying healthy, she is letting me go two weeks instead of coming in next week. So Thursday 4/21 is our next appointment. On that day, if he is still breach she is confirming a c-section and will set the date and time. If he has somehow turned, she is still setting the inducement date. We will then have another appointment the following week, and then that next week, Colton will be here!! Since my due date is Monday 5/16, I'm guessing she will pick Monday May 2 since that is the exact day I will be 38 weeks. Or if she lets us pick the day during that week, we are opting for Monday May 2. We are thinking we mine as well start that week on a good note!!
We are all ready for him. All we have left to do is put the car seat bases in our vehicles. We plan to do that this weekend. Brian thinks I'm being paranoid because I plan on taking our vehicles to the police station and letting them inspect to ensure properly installed. All the stations around here offer it for free and I figure there is nothing to lose by being on the safe side!! Once those are in, we have nothing left to do. I hope these three weeks go by fast....I am SO ready to meet our little guy!!!!
Monday, April 4, 2011
34 Weeks - Baby Bump Update
This last week has been kinda lame and slow. I had an extremely busy week at work so we laid low in the evenings. The carpal tunnel in my right hand/wrist has gotten out of control. It hurts to put pressure on the hand (liking trying to climb into our giant, tall bed) or pulling the fingers back. It's just the area by the first two fingers & thumb. So weird. Between peeing 3 or 4 times a night and my darn hand & arm waking me from the tingly sensation all the time from the carpal tunnel, sleep has become impossible. Ya, ya I know I've heard it over and over again...it's natures way of preparing you for sleepless nights. I could be wrong but I believe there will be a difference though between now and when Colton is here. Now with no sleep, I still have to get up pull an 8 to 10 hour work day at a stressful job, workout, cook, and live a daily life. When he is here, atleast I can cat nap while he is sleeping during the day. I assure you that we will be working on getting a schedule using the baby wise system. If it worked for my dr and some of my friends, it will work for us. I'm a big proponent for consistency and won't give up till it works. I'm a firm believer rewards payoff hard work. Good news is my back hasn't hurt as bad this last week. Of course I had a massage so that helped out a bunch. Although, the braxton hicks continue to sporadically create some discomfort with stomach & back pains. But they seem more at night when in bed....just one more thing to keep us a wake. As I said last time, this third trimester is my least favorite and is for the birds.
Our hospital bags are all packed, ready to go and I've been doing some research on breast feeding. You know those things about foods to avoid, to eat, alcohol, caffeine, etc. Did you know that the whole "pump and dump" thing really is only a waste of milk and no need to do it? It's amazing how many things you hear from others (friends, family, co-workers, common phrases, etc) are completely wrong and inaccurate. I now know that I can and will be able to enjoy my long desired glass of expensive bubblies. I'm expecting to see that bottle of Cristal or Dom Perignon in my fridge chilling soon! We've only got 4 weeks to go till the first week in May! Then get a good eating schedule down and then yay for glass of bubblies!!!
Side note/disclosure from an 8 1/2 month hormonal pregnant lady: Before any of you go passing judgement on that statement, do your research and talk to your dr just as I have done before the judgemental thoughts or comments. I'm not trying to be ugly but after a while all the "dr's" out there just get plain annoying and irritating. Those that have been pregnant understand what I mean. Only one dr matters and that's our licensed OB/GYN, well and the pediatrician once the little guy is here..haha. And those that have been pregnant say it only gets worse once the baby is here. Everyone apparently becomes the Do's and Don'ts Parental experts. Oh the joys.
So it's been 4 weeks since the last baby bump picture. Brian is having to work late tonight because of the lovely storms we had last night and winds today. I tried taking some of myself (which is hard to do) but I guess they work good enough. And I've taken some pictures of Colton's room. I'm still waiting on pictures from the baby shower. Once I have them I will post a few for all to see. Friday is our next dr appointment. It shall be fun to see how much our big boy has grown! And tomorrow is the baby shower at work. Some fun days a head!
Colton's Room
34 weeks today - hard to believe a 5 pound baby (or bigger now) is in there!
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Whoa Big Baby Boy
Our dr appointment went really well on Friday. Colton was wide awake and moving around like crazy during the sonogram. He was doing that practice breathing thing like crazy. (Remember last time he wouldn't wake enough to do it.) I think he was just showing off and being very onry. Every time the sonogram tech would try to clock his heart rate, he would push on the wand, lol. She was like oh my goodness, he is a wild thing. We just laughed and said yup, thats our boy. He finally settled down and let her get it. It was strong as usual and my fluid levels were normal which was great news. He was measuring a full week a head in all his measurements and in the 53rd percentile for a 33 week 5 day baby; but we were actually only 32 weeks 4 days on Friday. She said that he has a big head. Just what a person who is fearful of the delivery process needs to hear, lol. I guess that is what I get for eating a lot of Omega 3 (DHA) things lately. I'm that weirdo that has been eating things that are good for whatever has been developing in his little body. These last few weeks I read that it's a major brain development time for him so that is why I've been eating the Omega 3 (DHA) things and have been reading to him like crazy. He's been getting a daily bible lesson, lol. I've just started adding alot of extra vitamin C and antioxidants because his immune system is suppose to be in a serious building mode now too. I'm a weirdo I know. Apparently all I'm doing is making a big a baby, haha.
He is estimated to weigh 4 lbs 13 oz which is just right under 5 lbs. So he gained roughly a pound these last two weeks and I gained 2 pounds. He is still breach but is sitting really low. So all the pressure I've been feeling is from his little butt. Dr said that they will give him till 36 weeks to turn before we talk about doing a c-section and are aiming for inducing at 38 weeks. Heck at the rate he is growing, I am so glad we are being induced and not quite sure I want him to turn, lol. If he is going to be as big as it's sounding, I'm A-OK with a c-section. I've had enough knee surgeries that I just don't get worried or stressed over surgical procedures but the idea of pushing scares the tar out of me. Weird, right?! I'm sure our little onry boy will turn at the last minute and make me face this pushing fear. Oh well, I will survive. She said that the reason why I've probably had a lot of back pain this last week is because he was in middle of a big growth spurt. She said it'll probably calm down a while and then be bad again as he has more spurts. Oh the joys. I've just gotta make it 5 more weeks. Let the countdown begin - first week in May, here we come!
Saturday was my CPR training class. They taught us the proper procedures on adults, children, infants, & babies. We also learned the proper ways to handle choking on all the ages and when to start CPR if needed. I'm glad I did it and feel more prepared and ready for our little guys arrival. Hopefully I'll never have to put this training to work but I feel better having it in my back pocket! All we have left to do now is pack the hospital bags and I've already made the checklist for that. I'm not sure what I am going to do with myself now that I've got everything done. Sitting back and waiting isn't my style.
I will tell you that I'm not a fan of this third trimester business. I think it has definitely been the worst of the three. Sleeping is impossible, bad backaches, carpal tunnel thats getting worse, and occasional migraine like headaches. Oh and I had my first charley horse in my left calf muscle the other night. That was fun - not!! And to top it off, I still have NO cravings. ARG!! But I guess it could be a lot worse. I'm just thankful to have a healthy growing boy on our hands!
Stay tuned for more. These last 5 weeks are bound to interesting!!
xoxoxoxo
He is estimated to weigh 4 lbs 13 oz which is just right under 5 lbs. So he gained roughly a pound these last two weeks and I gained 2 pounds. He is still breach but is sitting really low. So all the pressure I've been feeling is from his little butt. Dr said that they will give him till 36 weeks to turn before we talk about doing a c-section and are aiming for inducing at 38 weeks. Heck at the rate he is growing, I am so glad we are being induced and not quite sure I want him to turn, lol. If he is going to be as big as it's sounding, I'm A-OK with a c-section. I've had enough knee surgeries that I just don't get worried or stressed over surgical procedures but the idea of pushing scares the tar out of me. Weird, right?! I'm sure our little onry boy will turn at the last minute and make me face this pushing fear. Oh well, I will survive. She said that the reason why I've probably had a lot of back pain this last week is because he was in middle of a big growth spurt. She said it'll probably calm down a while and then be bad again as he has more spurts. Oh the joys. I've just gotta make it 5 more weeks. Let the countdown begin - first week in May, here we come!
Saturday was my CPR training class. They taught us the proper procedures on adults, children, infants, & babies. We also learned the proper ways to handle choking on all the ages and when to start CPR if needed. I'm glad I did it and feel more prepared and ready for our little guys arrival. Hopefully I'll never have to put this training to work but I feel better having it in my back pocket! All we have left to do now is pack the hospital bags and I've already made the checklist for that. I'm not sure what I am going to do with myself now that I've got everything done. Sitting back and waiting isn't my style.
I will tell you that I'm not a fan of this third trimester business. I think it has definitely been the worst of the three. Sleeping is impossible, bad backaches, carpal tunnel thats getting worse, and occasional migraine like headaches. Oh and I had my first charley horse in my left calf muscle the other night. That was fun - not!! And to top it off, I still have NO cravings. ARG!! But I guess it could be a lot worse. I'm just thankful to have a healthy growing boy on our hands!
Stay tuned for more. These last 5 weeks are bound to interesting!!
xoxoxoxo
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
32 Weeks - The Countdown Has Begun
Last week was a big nesting week for me. Since the baby shower was coming up, I spent the week cleaning the house. I can tell you that the house had not been on my priority list till last week and boy was it in bad shape. I did a room a night and by the end of the week I was completely worn out. My sister flew in Thursday evening to spend the weekend with us. She was a huge help with the last few rooms to clean. Having my 13 year old sister around was so nice. She was so willing to help and did a great job. She was a bit more protective over me this visit. Usually she wants to stay at my Mom's a night or two to ride but this trip, she wouldn't leave my side. She has matured so much over the last couple of years!! I cannot believe that she is going to be 14 next month! Craziness!!
The baby shower went great on Saturday. We had it here at the house on the back patio since the weather was nice. Colton is blessed with many great family and friends who are excited to meet him. He got so many clothes and I got hooter hiders!! (haha) And we got many things that were necessities such as the diaper genie, diapers, diaper bags, bottles, nipples, bottle accessories, bath tub, pack n play, blankets, towels, homemade burp clothes, and so many other things. And oh my goodness, my hostesses got us the car seat we were wanting!! And we had many donations to our Cord Blood registry. I can tell you that Colton is one spoiled kid already! My hostesses are the best friends a girl can have. Wanda made the yummy cake, Denise created a game & took pictures, Allyson made a diaper cake, Jeri made the punch & took pictures, Michelle, Mindi, Bobbi, and Brandy all brought decorations and help setup. And Tandy created and mailed the adorable invitations, brought tables, and headed the entire thing up!! I really don't know what I'd do without Tandy. She is such a good person! And of course her momma, Patty Deweber made me a corsage to wear that was made from a pair of newborn shoes. Patty is the most creative person I know. I wish I had her talent! Thank you ladies for all your help! All in all it was a perfect day!
I was worn out after the shower though and can assure you I slept GREAT that night! Then on Sunday Teal had to fly out. It's always sad to see her go. We cannot wait for her visit this summer and have Aunt Teal help us with Colton! On Sunday, I noticed that Colton seems to be laying lower. I was feeling pressure lower that I have felt before and at times it's a bit uncomfortable. And that evening he had the hiccups and they were lower in belly than up high as before. So I'm pretty sure Colton has turned and is no longer breach. Since then I've had a lot of pressure coming and going in the lower (and I mean lower) stomach area and in my back. I have to say the pressure is something. Its like he is dropping and pushing his head down hard. Lets just say there is a whole new meaning to when I gotta pee....I gotta pee! lol And OMG my back has been out of control all day today and tonight. It hurts so bad. No matter how I turn, sit, or lay, I cannot get any relief. It's more of the middle part of the back than the lower back. It's almost like Colton is getting ready to make his presence. If this is how the last weeks are going to feel, man alive he can come even earlier than when we plan to induce him!! I guess on Friday at the dr's appointment we will find out if he has indeed turned and dropped as it feels he has. I have a feeling these last weeks are going to take forever!!!
The baby shower went great on Saturday. We had it here at the house on the back patio since the weather was nice. Colton is blessed with many great family and friends who are excited to meet him. He got so many clothes and I got hooter hiders!! (haha) And we got many things that were necessities such as the diaper genie, diapers, diaper bags, bottles, nipples, bottle accessories, bath tub, pack n play, blankets, towels, homemade burp clothes, and so many other things. And oh my goodness, my hostesses got us the car seat we were wanting!! And we had many donations to our Cord Blood registry. I can tell you that Colton is one spoiled kid already! My hostesses are the best friends a girl can have. Wanda made the yummy cake, Denise created a game & took pictures, Allyson made a diaper cake, Jeri made the punch & took pictures, Michelle, Mindi, Bobbi, and Brandy all brought decorations and help setup. And Tandy created and mailed the adorable invitations, brought tables, and headed the entire thing up!! I really don't know what I'd do without Tandy. She is such a good person! And of course her momma, Patty Deweber made me a corsage to wear that was made from a pair of newborn shoes. Patty is the most creative person I know. I wish I had her talent! Thank you ladies for all your help! All in all it was a perfect day!
I was worn out after the shower though and can assure you I slept GREAT that night! Then on Sunday Teal had to fly out. It's always sad to see her go. We cannot wait for her visit this summer and have Aunt Teal help us with Colton! On Sunday, I noticed that Colton seems to be laying lower. I was feeling pressure lower that I have felt before and at times it's a bit uncomfortable. And that evening he had the hiccups and they were lower in belly than up high as before. So I'm pretty sure Colton has turned and is no longer breach. Since then I've had a lot of pressure coming and going in the lower (and I mean lower) stomach area and in my back. I have to say the pressure is something. Its like he is dropping and pushing his head down hard. Lets just say there is a whole new meaning to when I gotta pee....I gotta pee! lol And OMG my back has been out of control all day today and tonight. It hurts so bad. No matter how I turn, sit, or lay, I cannot get any relief. It's more of the middle part of the back than the lower back. It's almost like Colton is getting ready to make his presence. If this is how the last weeks are going to feel, man alive he can come even earlier than when we plan to induce him!! I guess on Friday at the dr's appointment we will find out if he has indeed turned and dropped as it feels he has. I have a feeling these last weeks are going to take forever!!!
Sunday, March 13, 2011
3D Pictures
We took two of our friends with us for a lucky charm and it worked; he was showing his face! Though, I don't think we were meant to do the 3D sonogram. The darn umbilical cord was covering his face. We got some pictures but they aren't as good as they could've been if the cord wasn't in the way. After a few pictures, I finally asked, does our son have a clef palate lip (spelling?)? The sonogram tech laughed and said no, that is the cord in the way. I was relieved. I mean don't get me wrong, we'd love Colton regardless but it was good to hear that it was just the darn umbilical cord distorting the pictures. I wish I could figure out how to save the few videos (4D portion) we have. One of the videos you can watch him open and close his mouth a few times. It's like he was saying "hello." I guess the software (quickplayer) on my mac doesn't allow to save or it needs to be upgraded which I'm sure comes with a fee. We have several pictures but only going to post a few, after a while they all kinda look the same.
Here in this picture you can see his face. Over the top portion of his forehead is his foot. I'm not sure how that is comfortable but he seems to like it. You can see what I was talking about the cord distorting his lips here in this picture.
Another picture with the cord in the way and his little smashed nose there in the belly.
I think it was this picture that I finally asked if he had a clef palate, lol.
A side angle view of his face.
Another side view. Here you can really see his foot over his head.
The people before us were told when they were 16 weeks they were having a boy. Well during their 3D sonogram they were surprised with girl news. Can you imagine! Our Colton is definately a boy!
Friday, March 11, 2011
Stubborn Baby Boy
So our 3D/4D sonogram didn't go so well the other night. On my drive home from work at 4 our little guy was moving around like crazy. Then at 6, our appointment time, he was out cold a sleep. He was facing towards my back and there was no getting him to wake up enough to turn around. I shifted from side to side, walked around, jiggled the belly, and no luck. So after 30 minutes, we walked to the starbucks around the corner and got a frappacino hoping the sugar & caffeine would do the trick. We tried again 30 minutes later and he was still out. What little bit of a profile view we had was covered by his hand. He had one hand cupping his face, had one leg kinda stretched out, and the other leg flexed up to his head with his other hand holding the back of it. Needless to say, our child apparently is not a fan of the curled up fetal position, lol. But because we had a great view of the back of his head, we were able to see that he has some hair! I was so frustrated because our parents drove here for the appointment and were excited to see him. I guess that is just the way it goes sometimes. So we try again tomorrow morning; hopefully, he will cooperate and show his cute little face for us to get good pictures.
Today we had our dr appointment. Sonogram went well. He weighs just a tad over 4 lbs and is in the 47th percentile in weight and length. I was happy to hear that! He isn't super big nor teeny tiny....he is just perfect! Heartbeat was strong at 153 and guess what, he was still facing towards my back side, lol. I guess he just really likes being in the breach position and facing my back. He was positioned real similar like he was on Wednesday but on the opposite side of the stomach. I guess at this point, the babies should be starting to "practice breathing" and they were trying to check for that. But guess what, you've got it, our little stubborn boy wouldn't cooperate. He was napping again and apparently they only do this when awake and usually about 1 to 2 times every 30 minutes or so. So it's all about the right timing to capture it. Again we tried to wake him up. He woke and stirred enough to get a small read but it wasn't enough. Our son is like clock work on his wake schedule. He moves a ton around the times I usually eat then after I eat his movements slow down and I'm guessing he is snoozing. So his big movement times are 7:30am, 10:00am, between 12 & 12:30, 3pm, and 7ish then again around 10:30 or 11pm. All the times except 10 and 11 are times I eat or have a snack. Our sonogram today was at 2 and by time we got to the dr it was around 2:45 and guess what he started moving then, lol.
Dr Walter's said everything is fine. She is not concerned because at this point is when they are just starting the practice breathing thing and as we get further along he will do it more often. So right now its all about the perfect timing. She said many, many times they don't get a read the first time. But to be safe they do what they call a stress test on the baby. It's basically making sure the baby isn't stressed. So we get hooked up to a machine that monitors the heart rate and I have to hit a button every time I feel a movement. We stayed on it for 20 minutes and when it was over the dr said, yup, just as I thought, everything is okay. He is a wild moving baby. At that point it was well after 3 and past my snack time. He was hungry, lol!!
We go back again in two weeks and will have another sonogram. As I mentioned before, we have one now at every appointment. It's to check the fluid levels. Apparently if the levels are above a certain number then it's an early indicator of preclampsia. Our levels today were within the normal & safe range..thankfully! I've gained 1 pound which is basically the pound Colton grew these last two weeks, lol. She asked if we had questions, gave us two thumbs up and said see ya in two weeks.
Pray our little guy cooperates tomorrow for the 3D/4D sonogram. We need good pictures!!
Today we had our dr appointment. Sonogram went well. He weighs just a tad over 4 lbs and is in the 47th percentile in weight and length. I was happy to hear that! He isn't super big nor teeny tiny....he is just perfect! Heartbeat was strong at 153 and guess what, he was still facing towards my back side, lol. I guess he just really likes being in the breach position and facing my back. He was positioned real similar like he was on Wednesday but on the opposite side of the stomach. I guess at this point, the babies should be starting to "practice breathing" and they were trying to check for that. But guess what, you've got it, our little stubborn boy wouldn't cooperate. He was napping again and apparently they only do this when awake and usually about 1 to 2 times every 30 minutes or so. So it's all about the right timing to capture it. Again we tried to wake him up. He woke and stirred enough to get a small read but it wasn't enough. Our son is like clock work on his wake schedule. He moves a ton around the times I usually eat then after I eat his movements slow down and I'm guessing he is snoozing. So his big movement times are 7:30am, 10:00am, between 12 & 12:30, 3pm, and 7ish then again around 10:30 or 11pm. All the times except 10 and 11 are times I eat or have a snack. Our sonogram today was at 2 and by time we got to the dr it was around 2:45 and guess what he started moving then, lol.
Dr Walter's said everything is fine. She is not concerned because at this point is when they are just starting the practice breathing thing and as we get further along he will do it more often. So right now its all about the perfect timing. She said many, many times they don't get a read the first time. But to be safe they do what they call a stress test on the baby. It's basically making sure the baby isn't stressed. So we get hooked up to a machine that monitors the heart rate and I have to hit a button every time I feel a movement. We stayed on it for 20 minutes and when it was over the dr said, yup, just as I thought, everything is okay. He is a wild moving baby. At that point it was well after 3 and past my snack time. He was hungry, lol!!
We go back again in two weeks and will have another sonogram. As I mentioned before, we have one now at every appointment. It's to check the fluid levels. Apparently if the levels are above a certain number then it's an early indicator of preclampsia. Our levels today were within the normal & safe range..thankfully! I've gained 1 pound which is basically the pound Colton grew these last two weeks, lol. She asked if we had questions, gave us two thumbs up and said see ya in two weeks.
Pray our little guy cooperates tomorrow for the 3D/4D sonogram. We need good pictures!!
Monday, March 7, 2011
30 Weeks - 3rd Week of 7th Month
This is a busy week, belly bump picture is due, 3D/4D sonogram, and Dr appointment. So I thought I'd break it up into a few posts along the way.
Here are the next set of belly bump pictures. Can you believe how much I have grown!
Here is one a bit more close up - you can truly see the size in this one....haha.
We had our maternity tour at Baylor on Saturday. It was a good tour but really brought reality to me. Technically by pregnancy terms, we have 10 weeks to go but with the Dr talking about inducing, we really only have 7 to 8 weeks to go. HOLY MOLY! I think I'm ready but then I'm scared to death at the same time. To be honest, it's not being a mom or having a baby that worries me, it's the labor & delivery part that scares the daylights out of me. I plan to have an epidural but I'm still a nervous wreck about it. I just have so many fears about it for some reason. I've read all about the things to expect, things that could happen, how they handle different scenerios, etc but none of it is helping to ease my fear. At the tour, they showed us the delivery room, the c section prep room if it turns that route, the nursery, and then the room you stay in till go home. In the delivery room there are like these serious lights that come out of the ceiling. As the instructor explained it, you are on spotlight, lol. Then she said that mirrors are available if requested. Apparently the statistics say that if a women sees the head crowning, the pushing time decreases. I guess because of the excitement?? I turned to Brian and said, "we will NOT be having the mirrors." I don't care if I have to push for hours on end, I refuse to see that business. I'm sorry but I've seen videos and there is nothing beautiful about that process. Brian is not allowed past my shoulders when it's our time. Only 2 people are allowed in the delivery room at a time and then only 2 during the big moment. My two will be Brian and my Mom. If I have to go through with this, then I am for sure making Brian go through with it too. And well, who doesn't want their mom there?! I mean, Mom's have a way of making the scary things seem better. Yes, I'm 32 years old and I admit, I will need my Mom that day! Then in the other room you are allowed as many visitors as you want during the visiting hours. We learned that vaginal deliveries are usually in the hospital 2 days and c sections 3 days. Not to bad. It's funny, I think God was trying to help relieve some stress for me. During the tour, we saw my dr (Dr. Walter's) hanging out at the nurses station. She saw us, waved and said hi to us. It's a good feeling when your dr recognizes you outside of the small room in her office and without your chart in her hand. Then when we came back through, we heard a baby crying. I'm guessing she just delivered a new baby for some happy people. Then when walking to the other rooms, I saw our pediatrician's name listed on one of the doors. They list the patient last name, ob/gyn last name, and pediatrician last name outside each door. I've been afraid that I will end up going into labor before inducement time and my dr's won't be available. Silly I know, but it's a true fear I have. So it's like God was trying to show me that there is no need to worry, your dr's will show up and be there for you. Now if I can just get over the actually delivery fear.... Oh lord please be with me!
Wednesday is the 3D/4D sonogram. We can't wait to see him! I will post some of the pictures for you all to see.
Here are the next set of belly bump pictures. Can you believe how much I have grown!
Here is one a bit more close up - you can truly see the size in this one....haha.
We had our maternity tour at Baylor on Saturday. It was a good tour but really brought reality to me. Technically by pregnancy terms, we have 10 weeks to go but with the Dr talking about inducing, we really only have 7 to 8 weeks to go. HOLY MOLY! I think I'm ready but then I'm scared to death at the same time. To be honest, it's not being a mom or having a baby that worries me, it's the labor & delivery part that scares the daylights out of me. I plan to have an epidural but I'm still a nervous wreck about it. I just have so many fears about it for some reason. I've read all about the things to expect, things that could happen, how they handle different scenerios, etc but none of it is helping to ease my fear. At the tour, they showed us the delivery room, the c section prep room if it turns that route, the nursery, and then the room you stay in till go home. In the delivery room there are like these serious lights that come out of the ceiling. As the instructor explained it, you are on spotlight, lol. Then she said that mirrors are available if requested. Apparently the statistics say that if a women sees the head crowning, the pushing time decreases. I guess because of the excitement?? I turned to Brian and said, "we will NOT be having the mirrors." I don't care if I have to push for hours on end, I refuse to see that business. I'm sorry but I've seen videos and there is nothing beautiful about that process. Brian is not allowed past my shoulders when it's our time. Only 2 people are allowed in the delivery room at a time and then only 2 during the big moment. My two will be Brian and my Mom. If I have to go through with this, then I am for sure making Brian go through with it too. And well, who doesn't want their mom there?! I mean, Mom's have a way of making the scary things seem better. Yes, I'm 32 years old and I admit, I will need my Mom that day! Then in the other room you are allowed as many visitors as you want during the visiting hours. We learned that vaginal deliveries are usually in the hospital 2 days and c sections 3 days. Not to bad. It's funny, I think God was trying to help relieve some stress for me. During the tour, we saw my dr (Dr. Walter's) hanging out at the nurses station. She saw us, waved and said hi to us. It's a good feeling when your dr recognizes you outside of the small room in her office and without your chart in her hand. Then when we came back through, we heard a baby crying. I'm guessing she just delivered a new baby for some happy people. Then when walking to the other rooms, I saw our pediatrician's name listed on one of the doors. They list the patient last name, ob/gyn last name, and pediatrician last name outside each door. I've been afraid that I will end up going into labor before inducement time and my dr's won't be available. Silly I know, but it's a true fear I have. So it's like God was trying to show me that there is no need to worry, your dr's will show up and be there for you. Now if I can just get over the actually delivery fear.... Oh lord please be with me!
Wednesday is the 3D/4D sonogram. We can't wait to see him! I will post some of the pictures for you all to see.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
29 Weeks & Growing Like Crazy
Oh man have I grown a bunch over these last two weeks. I've been told that the 7 month is a big growth month and they aren't a kidding. Ya'll just wait till next week when I post my baby bump picture. You will be amazed on the growth from the 26 week picture. Heck I'll be amazed at the change from this week to next. It is crazy!!
Not a whole lot going on but I know a few of you enjoy the weekly updates and I like doing them so here we go.
We've found a pediatrician. His office is right next to the new cooks children hospital center right down the road from our house and will go to Baylor in Grapevine when Colton delivers which is nice. I wanted a dr closer to the house rather than in Grapevine since will probably be going a lot in the beginning. The HEB Harris Methodist is closer to us so most of the doctors in this area are only associated with it and don't or won't go to Baylor. I know Baylor have pediatricians on staff and we can use one of them but I prefer for the one we plan to use going forward be there when Colton is delivered. The one we chose was on our list of names given to us by Dr. Walter's and some of the kid's Pat keeps use him. So it's worked out great.
Lets see, this Saturday is our maternity ward tour at Baylor and I've gotten the CPR class scheduled for the last weekend in March. Our neighbor is a licensed paramedic and fireman so its comforting that he is right next door but I still feel like that I should have some knowledge in this area. Hopefully it will never be needed but it eases my mind to have some training in my back pocket. Our 3D/4D sonogram is Wednesday and are really looking forward to it. Colton is moving around like crazy day and night now so it will be fun watching him. In fact, you can see his movements through the belly now. He likes to hangout more on the right side of my stomach so it's usually pertruding a little more than the left side. And you can see and feel when he head butts which is still way up high (little turd needs to turn still). At home in the evenings, I'll just hangout with my shirt raised and watch my stomach. I like to play with him when he's active by poking (gently) and rubbing him. I think he likes it because he will what feels like poke back when you quit rubbing. It's like he is saying, hey Mom don't quit rubbing, lol. I talk to him all the time. I'll be like, "Colton are your ready to go to work or are you ready to go workout." I'm having fun with it all. :)
The baby shower is coming up too. It's on Saturday March 19th from 2 to 4 here at the house. Invitations have gone out. Thank you Tandy and the rest of the hostesses for all your hard work!! If you didn't get an invitation it's because I have P.I.S.S. (pregnancy induced stupid syndrome) and failed to get the information to Tandy. I can promise it wasn't intentional. We want everyone to be there so please join us!
Hmm, that's about it. Next week will be a big week since it will be time for a baby bump picture, 3D/4D sonogram, and dr appointment & 2D sonogram. So stayed tuned!
xoxoxo
Not a whole lot going on but I know a few of you enjoy the weekly updates and I like doing them so here we go.
We've found a pediatrician. His office is right next to the new cooks children hospital center right down the road from our house and will go to Baylor in Grapevine when Colton delivers which is nice. I wanted a dr closer to the house rather than in Grapevine since will probably be going a lot in the beginning. The HEB Harris Methodist is closer to us so most of the doctors in this area are only associated with it and don't or won't go to Baylor. I know Baylor have pediatricians on staff and we can use one of them but I prefer for the one we plan to use going forward be there when Colton is delivered. The one we chose was on our list of names given to us by Dr. Walter's and some of the kid's Pat keeps use him. So it's worked out great.
Lets see, this Saturday is our maternity ward tour at Baylor and I've gotten the CPR class scheduled for the last weekend in March. Our neighbor is a licensed paramedic and fireman so its comforting that he is right next door but I still feel like that I should have some knowledge in this area. Hopefully it will never be needed but it eases my mind to have some training in my back pocket. Our 3D/4D sonogram is Wednesday and are really looking forward to it. Colton is moving around like crazy day and night now so it will be fun watching him. In fact, you can see his movements through the belly now. He likes to hangout more on the right side of my stomach so it's usually pertruding a little more than the left side. And you can see and feel when he head butts which is still way up high (little turd needs to turn still). At home in the evenings, I'll just hangout with my shirt raised and watch my stomach. I like to play with him when he's active by poking (gently) and rubbing him. I think he likes it because he will what feels like poke back when you quit rubbing. It's like he is saying, hey Mom don't quit rubbing, lol. I talk to him all the time. I'll be like, "Colton are your ready to go to work or are you ready to go workout." I'm having fun with it all. :)
The baby shower is coming up too. It's on Saturday March 19th from 2 to 4 here at the house. Invitations have gone out. Thank you Tandy and the rest of the hostesses for all your hard work!! If you didn't get an invitation it's because I have P.I.S.S. (pregnancy induced stupid syndrome) and failed to get the information to Tandy. I can promise it wasn't intentional. We want everyone to be there so please join us!
Hmm, that's about it. Next week will be a big week since it will be time for a baby bump picture, 3D/4D sonogram, and dr appointment & 2D sonogram. So stayed tuned!
xoxoxo
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