So obviously as he's growing he's able to show us more and more that he can move all around. Lately it's been very prominent and more consistent.
Just yesterday I was able to catch him in the act of his dig'n to china as mom likes to call it.
I have thought I have seen him out of the corner of my eye a few times, meaning seeing movement on the external part of my belly but I haven't been able to "catch him."
Yesterday morning he was on the prowl and I caught him! After catching him it was a good 10-15 minutes before he stopped and it was awesome to watch. Again this stuff is all new to me and odd that here I have been watching youtube.com videos of such things for months and yet it's happening here in my own home.
So later last night, Sean was home with me and he's was again dig'n. I caught him, and then I told Sean to watch him for a few moments and just a few short minutes later, Seans jaw was at the floor. He was like, "what just happened??"
Sean has become increasingly in love with the belly. It's a beautiful connection. He's always rubbing it, and asking what he's up to. I can't wait for Jack to arrive. 4 more months.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Jack and Christmas
The little monster or rather monkey made out pretty well this Christmas.
Jack gifted Sean with an Ergo Carrier as daddy is really wanting to carry Jack while taking Abby for her nightly walk, a very soft monkey with blankets, lots of clothing including a sun hat that he will be getting A LOT of use out of. With our stock in sunscreen this child will be white as a sheet until he's 18 :)
Also on the list was, bibs, monkey slippers, and hand crafted letters J A C K from Grandpa Steichen that we were so touched from, (We had no clue they were coming. It was just a "thought."). What else, oh yeah puzzles.
All in all Christmas treated us well. As we were reflecting at the grandparents house, this would be our last year, well, just the two of us. Next year would start the beginning of a new time for the Plunketts, running after a little one :)
I didn't take many photos but here is what I've got.
6 Month Check Up
December 17th, 2009 was my regular monthly check up. Regular vitals all came out fine with the exception of my blood pressure. For about a year now my BP has been reading 110/70, but for this visit I was running very low. Low being 98/56. The doctor says that everything is fine and they would be only get concerned if it got TOO low or TOO high. I'm still within an ok range.
The babies heart beat was also within normal about 156 and I was measuring at 24 inches, just on target, literally.
The babies heart beat was also within normal about 156 and I was measuring at 24 inches, just on target, literally.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Maternity Leave
Yes it's that time to start thinking about all of that. I contacted my HR department and obtained all the paperwork. It's quite a packet. After carefully reviewing everything and talking with several friends about what they did, I think we figured it out and boy did this take some time to think about.
I will attempt to take 4 weeks off prior to birth to get the house ready, relax, be bored, attend doctors appointments and so on.
After birth I will then take off 12 weeks (3 months).
I will not be using any of my sick or vacation time to add additional time to my leave time b/c I want to save it for any "Uh oh's" that might come up with child care.
As for Sean, he also finalized his schedule too. I'm so glad he got that all squared away. It's one last thing I have to think about and can focus on something else.
Sean will spend the first 2 weeks of my leave after birth with me at home to get my legs back and help out. After that he will return back to work until my leave time is up, and then he will come back out on leave for an additional two weeks to take care of Jack while I adjust to going back to work, and then Jack will officially enter day care come mid July.
Hopefully we chose correctly. Only time will tell b/c it's all set up ready for Jack to arrive now :)
I will attempt to take 4 weeks off prior to birth to get the house ready, relax, be bored, attend doctors appointments and so on.
After birth I will then take off 12 weeks (3 months).
I will not be using any of my sick or vacation time to add additional time to my leave time b/c I want to save it for any "Uh oh's" that might come up with child care.
As for Sean, he also finalized his schedule too. I'm so glad he got that all squared away. It's one last thing I have to think about and can focus on something else.
Sean will spend the first 2 weeks of my leave after birth with me at home to get my legs back and help out. After that he will return back to work until my leave time is up, and then he will come back out on leave for an additional two weeks to take care of Jack while I adjust to going back to work, and then Jack will officially enter day care come mid July.
Hopefully we chose correctly. Only time will tell b/c it's all set up ready for Jack to arrive now :)
Thank you Mercury
At my company Mercury Insurance, we have the opportunity to earn awards and in turn, cash those in on a website for prizes. I have been doing pretty well with getting the occasional award here and there and took a look at the website for what I could cash in for.
The items range from small stocking stuffer items worth only a few dollars, to patio sets, bbq's, tv's, ipods and so on.
I had a fair amount of point and was just looking to look since it was Christmas time to see if any of the gifts would fit my christmas shopping list.
I quickly came across a white toy chest. I got to thinking...well maybe our little Jack might need something like this.
So I thought about it for a few days as I had to find a home to place this item and found that the closet or under the window would be a good fit and I went ahead and ordered it.
Today it arrived and my goodness was it heavy. I was expecting it to be put together, but naw! That would be too simple. Sean drug the box inside and I put it together tonight. It's very nice considering it was non-name brand item. It see us having it for many years. Yes it's white, and yes it's not a home made creation, but it's free, it has a bench that you can sit on, and it holds lots of toys.
Photos to come later :)
The items range from small stocking stuffer items worth only a few dollars, to patio sets, bbq's, tv's, ipods and so on.
I had a fair amount of point and was just looking to look since it was Christmas time to see if any of the gifts would fit my christmas shopping list.
I quickly came across a white toy chest. I got to thinking...well maybe our little Jack might need something like this.
So I thought about it for a few days as I had to find a home to place this item and found that the closet or under the window would be a good fit and I went ahead and ordered it.
Today it arrived and my goodness was it heavy. I was expecting it to be put together, but naw! That would be too simple. Sean drug the box inside and I put it together tonight. It's very nice considering it was non-name brand item. It see us having it for many years. Yes it's white, and yes it's not a home made creation, but it's free, it has a bench that you can sit on, and it holds lots of toys.
Photos to come later :)
Thursday, December 3, 2009
A Little Bit of Seans Gram
Just a few shorts week ago, Grandma Gail presented us with a little gift that she found in her garage. It was a needlepoint that was made by Seans Gram who has since passed away, before the boys were born.The needlepoint needed a little TLC such as a new matte and a frame.
After a few attempts to price compare at Michaels (thank goodness for a very nice man at Michaels...I was at first in sticker shock for a custom frame but then we figured out something as an alternative) we used the old brown matte, and had a nice blue matte made and used a pre made frame.
I do have to say it turned out VERY nice! And the extra added bonus is that it's done in all the same colors as the nursery.
The needlepoint reads:Tucked beneath my covers tight
I place my fuzzy bear at night
But somehow when I'm fast asleep
My teddy always seems to creep
I always put my bear in place
So we are sleeping face to face
But my silly bear instead
Sleeps by my feed and not my head
This week I had a little plate made for the back, so when our kids grow up we are able to pass it down to Seans brothers.
What a nice little remembrance of Gram :)
Our "Black Friday" Addition
So as an early baby shower gift my lovely mother in law has gifted us and baby Jack a glider and ottoman for those cuddle times, and middle of the night breastfeeding sessions.
I was told by a friend that her last years black Friday find was at Babies R Us and it was a glider for 50% off. I kept this in the back of my head all year long. Long behold, yup, once again, they released a glider. Not only was it 1, but there were 3 styles to pick from.
So at the crack of dawn, 4:30am, Gail and I were waiting in line to make sure that we got one.
It arrived today and I put it together :) Doesn't it look so pretty!?! Don't mind the messy room behind it,...we're still trying to get rid of a GIANT TV, and find a new home for our computer.
I do have a funny story though. While putting the arms on, I looked at the rocker and it looked quite funny. I read all the directions and the arms were labeled left and right. Nope, they were totally backwards!!!! The ding dong company put the labels on backwards. So I had to take them off and 5 minutes later, vwola! It was done.
Thanks Grandma Gail!!
B squared
So in the midst of this pregnancy I seem to have totally lost my brain as you know. Traveling for no particular reason to odd locations and not even know it, placing weird things into the fridge and totally forgetting my train of thought, Sean has now given me a new nick name and I'm actually kinda fond of it.
"B Squared."
You know the big B with the little 2 on the upper right.
Jack has sucked up every last ounce of my memory. :) I'm glad it's going to him though.
"B Squared."
You know the big B with the little 2 on the upper right.
Jack has sucked up every last ounce of my memory. :) I'm glad it's going to him though.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
20 Week Doctors Visit
There is really nothing to report back on this appointment. Nothing really new and exciting. Just a check up.
We arrived they did the normal, weight, blood pressure, and so on. We then get taken back to the room and await what we thought was the nurse practitioner. Nope, we were nicely greeted by the doctor himself. With such a surprise (we thought our next time that we were going to see him was at deliver) I took the opportunity to ask what I thought was a short list of questions which ended up being quite a few.
My list of questions included:
Is my belly pain normal?
What percent of his patients have a c-section?
When is the earliest that he will give an epidural?
How often does he give an episiotomy?
Does he use forceps?
Does he recommend a pediatrician in my area?
Does lactation consulting cost money? If so, what insurance companies usually pay, and how much?
The doctor sat down to discuss everything with us. Such a nice guy! BTW, he's got 8 kids....holy canoly! That man is busy considering his practice is so successful! He's doing something right.
He then took predictions on what the baby was before we jumped over to the ultrasound room to get out exam and find out the sex of the baby. He thought it was a girl, but then quickly stated he's got a 50/50 chance. :)
Just a few short minutes later, we were called in for our ultrasound. Jack was facing the floor and in a position making it hard to get great measurements on him. So they once again made me do a few turns and rolls to get him to flip over. It worked! He spine was not facing the floor. The tech took measurements of his:
Head circumference
Femur and arm bones (yup you could see those on the ultrasound)
Size of the brain ventricles
Took at look at the belly of the baby to see that things were developing correctly
Length of my cervix
And last but not least....the sex of the baby. Yup he's a boy!
So all in all, things went well and no news is good news. The tech said this would be our last ultrasound unless things became "eventful" which she has hopes that they don't. Sean and I both agreed, but also would like to see the baby once more before delivery. We might be scheduling an appointment for a 4d at the local ultrasound school for much less money than what these "posh" places charge.
Time for the head to hit the pillow. Turkey day is tomorrow and I'm very thankful for a very awesome husband, family, and healthy baby boy on the way. Life is good!
We arrived they did the normal, weight, blood pressure, and so on. We then get taken back to the room and await what we thought was the nurse practitioner. Nope, we were nicely greeted by the doctor himself. With such a surprise (we thought our next time that we were going to see him was at deliver) I took the opportunity to ask what I thought was a short list of questions which ended up being quite a few.
My list of questions included:
Is my belly pain normal?
What percent of his patients have a c-section?
When is the earliest that he will give an epidural?
How often does he give an episiotomy?
Does he use forceps?
Does he recommend a pediatrician in my area?
Does lactation consulting cost money? If so, what insurance companies usually pay, and how much?
The doctor sat down to discuss everything with us. Such a nice guy! BTW, he's got 8 kids....holy canoly! That man is busy considering his practice is so successful! He's doing something right.
He then took predictions on what the baby was before we jumped over to the ultrasound room to get out exam and find out the sex of the baby. He thought it was a girl, but then quickly stated he's got a 50/50 chance. :)
Just a few short minutes later, we were called in for our ultrasound. Jack was facing the floor and in a position making it hard to get great measurements on him. So they once again made me do a few turns and rolls to get him to flip over. It worked! He spine was not facing the floor. The tech took measurements of his:
Head circumference
Femur and arm bones (yup you could see those on the ultrasound)
Size of the brain ventricles
Took at look at the belly of the baby to see that things were developing correctly
Length of my cervix
And last but not least....the sex of the baby. Yup he's a boy!
So all in all, things went well and no news is good news. The tech said this would be our last ultrasound unless things became "eventful" which she has hopes that they don't. Sean and I both agreed, but also would like to see the baby once more before delivery. We might be scheduling an appointment for a 4d at the local ultrasound school for much less money than what these "posh" places charge.
Time for the head to hit the pillow. Turkey day is tomorrow and I'm very thankful for a very awesome husband, family, and healthy baby boy on the way. Life is good!
Please help me find my brain
So "Prego Brain" finally hit an all time high today. I officially am requesting my brain back. It can be delivered any time now.
Just a few things I was able to manage, like putting odd objects into the fridge, certain rectangular lids on top of circular items, and having to make lists for pretty much everything now b/c I WILL forget something at the store.
So today I made it out the door, 2nd day in a row without my ultrasound photos in which I was to share with at co-worker. Ug...I am a bad friend.
Then I get about 1 more block down the street and realize that I have forgotten to put any makeup on. Thank goodness I have a very old back up supply of mascara in my purse that will be enough to get me through the day.
The kicker was at lunch. Oh lunch....I needed to make a trip to the local health food store to pick up an item. I haven't been to this specific store yet, but I knew where it was,...so I thought. I'm toot'n around at lunch and I think I have arrived at my destination and I go to look for the store and realize I have just drivin myself to the wrong shopping center. At this time I have called my best friend and husband and complained that I want my brain back. I really have no clue what else is in store for this brain of mine but I can only imagine. I better hold on.
Just a few things I was able to manage, like putting odd objects into the fridge, certain rectangular lids on top of circular items, and having to make lists for pretty much everything now b/c I WILL forget something at the store.
So today I made it out the door, 2nd day in a row without my ultrasound photos in which I was to share with at co-worker. Ug...I am a bad friend.
Then I get about 1 more block down the street and realize that I have forgotten to put any makeup on. Thank goodness I have a very old back up supply of mascara in my purse that will be enough to get me through the day.
The kicker was at lunch. Oh lunch....I needed to make a trip to the local health food store to pick up an item. I haven't been to this specific store yet, but I knew where it was,...so I thought. I'm toot'n around at lunch and I think I have arrived at my destination and I go to look for the store and realize I have just drivin myself to the wrong shopping center. At this time I have called my best friend and husband and complained that I want my brain back. I really have no clue what else is in store for this brain of mine but I can only imagine. I better hold on.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
16 Week Belly photos
Yup this is my 16 week photo. I'm starting to feel quite "large" and everything is not fitting, and I was getting quite frustrated. Then with the help of a lot of AWESOME friends, I rec'd several bags of maternity clothes that were just my size.
Time to put up the crib
Time to get started. 
All the parts to get started
The mattress
The guard dog standing watch.
Ta Da! What a good job we did. It looks so cute too. Now to decorate the rest of the room and pull things together.
Photos photos and more photos
20 Weeks - A Foot
20 Weeks - A Hand
20 Weeks - I am totally a boy!
20 Weeks - So big :)
14 Weeks - It's a BOY! Can you see??
14 Weeks - The creepy picture as I call it. This is the first time we are able to see a spine and brain. Kinda weird but I'm glad he's growing big and strong.
12 Weeks - A cute foot
12 Weeks - Getting bigger :)
10 Weeks - My AWESOME birthday gift
Saturday, November 7, 2009
18 Weeks and Shots, and a Crib.
Yesterday we reached 18 weeks, 4 1/2 months. I am counting down the days until 2 weeks from now in which I'll be 20 weeks and we will have our 20 week ultrasound and another doctors appointment.
At this appointment they will check all my vitals and listen to the hearbeat. After my regular appointment I will walk to the room next door and they will complete the 20 week ultrasound. At this ultrasound they will be taking lots of measurements and checking to make sure that all Jacks organs and forming and that no defects are found. They will also be telling us the sex of the baby. Little do they know it will be just a confirmation of what we already know. Hopefully they confirm Jack is a boy. :)
Yesterday I also completed my H1N1 shot and regular seasonal flu shot. Normally I am not one to get the flu shot but with a push and a shove from my doctor and all the many warnings of being pregnant woman if they get the swine flu, it could be fatal, I thought I should find it.
Trying to locate it was another story. With the many delays of the H1N1, and it only being released in certain locations it was very very hard to find. I actually got word through another prego at work of a location in the county that was giving them out for free and they had a supply of them. I was in luck. I made an appointment and went down to Santa Ana yesterday.
Upon my arrival, which let me set you a little mental picture...the health center is located in down town Santa Ana...aka little mexico. When I walked in I thought for sure it would be a heavily saturated hispanic line of pregos. It was just the opposite. It was a line of about 20 very very white, blond females.
So I got my shots, it took about 5 minutes by the time I was called back and was done and then started my way home. I did stop at the grocery in Santa Ana to get some good mexican food which was just the next block over. While driving over, I have found that my left arm wasn't working so well. I quickly found out that my injection arm (I asked for both shots in my left arm) was totally dead. They inject the virus into your muscle and boy I wasn't expecting such a dead arm.
Now the next morning after, the pain has gone away, but I still can't utilize my arm very much. Oh well. It's all in the name of Jack.
Also on todays schedule I have Sean and I set up to construct Jacks crib. We purchased it months ago, and now that I have made room in the babies room, it's time to get things started. I'm excited to get it up and see how it looks. I will also be looking for my childhood stuffed animals, as well as childhood books. This will allow Sean to start reading Jack. He's been looking forward to the point in which he can read to him. He feels that now that he's moving around he wants him to get used to his voice.
Last night while having Sam and Liana (brother and brothers girlfriend) over for dinner, it was joking said that Jack is going to come out a "black baby" with all the type of music that he listens too. We all got a good laugh :)
At this appointment they will check all my vitals and listen to the hearbeat. After my regular appointment I will walk to the room next door and they will complete the 20 week ultrasound. At this ultrasound they will be taking lots of measurements and checking to make sure that all Jacks organs and forming and that no defects are found. They will also be telling us the sex of the baby. Little do they know it will be just a confirmation of what we already know. Hopefully they confirm Jack is a boy. :)
Yesterday I also completed my H1N1 shot and regular seasonal flu shot. Normally I am not one to get the flu shot but with a push and a shove from my doctor and all the many warnings of being pregnant woman if they get the swine flu, it could be fatal, I thought I should find it.
Trying to locate it was another story. With the many delays of the H1N1, and it only being released in certain locations it was very very hard to find. I actually got word through another prego at work of a location in the county that was giving them out for free and they had a supply of them. I was in luck. I made an appointment and went down to Santa Ana yesterday.
Upon my arrival, which let me set you a little mental picture...the health center is located in down town Santa Ana...aka little mexico. When I walked in I thought for sure it would be a heavily saturated hispanic line of pregos. It was just the opposite. It was a line of about 20 very very white, blond females.
So I got my shots, it took about 5 minutes by the time I was called back and was done and then started my way home. I did stop at the grocery in Santa Ana to get some good mexican food which was just the next block over. While driving over, I have found that my left arm wasn't working so well. I quickly found out that my injection arm (I asked for both shots in my left arm) was totally dead. They inject the virus into your muscle and boy I wasn't expecting such a dead arm.
Now the next morning after, the pain has gone away, but I still can't utilize my arm very much. Oh well. It's all in the name of Jack.
Also on todays schedule I have Sean and I set up to construct Jacks crib. We purchased it months ago, and now that I have made room in the babies room, it's time to get things started. I'm excited to get it up and see how it looks. I will also be looking for my childhood stuffed animals, as well as childhood books. This will allow Sean to start reading Jack. He's been looking forward to the point in which he can read to him. He feels that now that he's moving around he wants him to get used to his voice.
Last night while having Sam and Liana (brother and brothers girlfriend) over for dinner, it was joking said that Jack is going to come out a "black baby" with all the type of music that he listens too. We all got a good laugh :)
16 Weeks and Moving All Over
Yes, we have hit 16 weeks. The belly is growing and Jack has been now moving for about 3 weeks. Although I am still unable to feel his on the exterior, I can feel his flutters, jabs and rolls. It still doesn't feel like anything too crazy, just gas bubbles, but distinct gas bubbles located in a certain area.
My weight gain is still on track but nearing it's end of my "buffer" zone. They say you can gain about 1lb a week and hope that you don't gain more than 25-35 lbs. I'm trying to eat as best as I can (still keep in mind my diabetes that I have to monitor) but ice cream, frosties, and soft serve has been my weakness! I defiantly crave lots of dairy, which leads me to believe Jack is putting it towards his bone structure.
I have been very thankful that my body has allowed me to eat dairy again. I haven't' had any problems with dairy since the new year and I'm just now allowing myself to have straight milk and it's awesome. The only thing that I have found to be an issue, are my sinus'. They are still not able to digest all that mucus and I come down with sinus headaches on a daily basis but I'm willing to suffer through the pain.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Doh, I forgot something
Hehe, something big in fact. Just about a week ago, I could start to feel some fluttering. After continually watching for that same feeling over and over again and ruling out that it was just a gas pain, or a digestion bubble, it was ruled that they were punches and jabs of baby Jack. I could finally feel him.
Although Sean will still have some time until he feel him externally, I can't wait until we can both feel him externally. It will be something else.
Yesterday was the first day he was going crazy. I had a pretty decent lunch filled with some sugary items, and oh my gosh. It was a movement fest. He was all over the place. It was like he was having a party.
Although Sean will still have some time until he feel him externally, I can't wait until we can both feel him externally. It will be something else.
Yesterday was the first day he was going crazy. I had a pretty decent lunch filled with some sugary items, and oh my gosh. It was a movement fest. He was all over the place. It was like he was having a party.
Wowza, time to catch you up.
So lets see. Where did I leave you guys off. Oh yes, @ 12 weeks.
Week 13 - Well....I can't really remember what happened here. Oops
Week 14 - The week started off with a little fun visit to the 4d ultrasound facility. I found this location online, in which you can pay a minimal fee to find out at at earlier time than you normal scheduled 20w ultrasound, what you are having. They say they can detect the s, sex as early at 13w.
So at 12:30pm in Costa Mesa we awaited to be called back. Pumped to see if the baby would let us view what "It" was we also knew that there would be a chance that we couldn't see anything, and even if we did see something, there was a chance that it could be wrong.
So the lady started her ultrasound and the baby was sitting on its rear like it was sitting in a chair. We quickly noticed the baby had the hiccups and it would bounce around a little bit, and after it wouldn't move into position, the tech advised that I stand up touch the floor, roll onto my sides and so on. After about 10 minutes, the baby finally moved. To our surprise, now the umbilical cord was right over the good. Stubborn baby...just like his father we said :) But just a few short seconds later, the cord moved, and vwola! IT'S A BOY!
Feeling like we were floating we could finally call our baby by a name knowing that it was a boy.
Jack Stephen Plunkett.
With a flood of phone calls made in just a short span on time, everyone was overjoyed!
PS - One of the photos is quite creepy. I wish I could say cute, but it's kinda odd. Baby Jack is now showing off his spinal cord in full detail with all it's little sections, as well as brain inside that large skull of his. All could be see on the photo.
Week 15 - POP! Yup, I officially have a belly. I can't hide it anymore, suck it in, or wear normal clothes. It's either normal clothes totally undone with a belly band, or maternity clothes. Quickly realizing that all my shirts were waaaay too short and not getting any longer, a trip to the store to get some longer shirts was necessary.
Registry...so we got an early start. With now semi, kinda, knowing that it's a boy, and hoping that they are correct, we went for it.
Over the weekend we headed over to Babies R Us and completed the research, test, and scan. It took about 2 hours, and Sean made it through with flying colors. Not a complaint in site...ok except for the shopping cart that just got in the way all the time, and he finally ditched. He did chime in on the big items, but as for the little stuff he left that up to mommy.
Week 15.5 - Dr's appointment day - So today was just a normal OB check (the technical term for a weight, blood pressure, urine test, measure and heartbeat check). All told takes about 15-20 minutes from start to finish. But Sean did join me b/c this would be the one of very very few visits that would be with the actual doctor that would deliver the baby.
***Side note...he delivered Sam (Alexis' brother) 25 years ago, and to my knowledge my mom has been seeing him ever since (well she is currently and she has a very good relationship with that dr.)
We both felt very comfortable with our doctor after the visit today, especially after talking with a few mommy friends over the past few weeks and the man is very well known. He's an expert in his field, has an amazing practice and so on. We're in good hands.
The doctor gave us (baby and I) a good bill of health, and sent us on our merry way. Jacks heartbeat was at 165 today, and the tummy measured at 14.
After my dr's appointment I had a follow up appointment at the genetic center for a 2nd trimester blood test, as well as 2 other tests that I had elected for and got approval for.
***Oh yeah, our first trimester tests all came back negative. A happy face for us.
I think that gets you guys up to date. I know I'm bad with getting things scanned and photos uploaded, but I hope to have them up for you guys soon. :)
Week 13 - Well....I can't really remember what happened here. Oops
Week 14 - The week started off with a little fun visit to the 4d ultrasound facility. I found this location online, in which you can pay a minimal fee to find out at at earlier time than you normal scheduled 20w ultrasound, what you are having. They say they can detect the s, sex as early at 13w.
So at 12:30pm in Costa Mesa we awaited to be called back. Pumped to see if the baby would let us view what "It" was we also knew that there would be a chance that we couldn't see anything, and even if we did see something, there was a chance that it could be wrong.
So the lady started her ultrasound and the baby was sitting on its rear like it was sitting in a chair. We quickly noticed the baby had the hiccups and it would bounce around a little bit, and after it wouldn't move into position, the tech advised that I stand up touch the floor, roll onto my sides and so on. After about 10 minutes, the baby finally moved. To our surprise, now the umbilical cord was right over the good. Stubborn baby...just like his father we said :) But just a few short seconds later, the cord moved, and vwola! IT'S A BOY!
Feeling like we were floating we could finally call our baby by a name knowing that it was a boy.
Jack Stephen Plunkett.
With a flood of phone calls made in just a short span on time, everyone was overjoyed!
PS - One of the photos is quite creepy. I wish I could say cute, but it's kinda odd. Baby Jack is now showing off his spinal cord in full detail with all it's little sections, as well as brain inside that large skull of his. All could be see on the photo.
Week 15 - POP! Yup, I officially have a belly. I can't hide it anymore, suck it in, or wear normal clothes. It's either normal clothes totally undone with a belly band, or maternity clothes. Quickly realizing that all my shirts were waaaay too short and not getting any longer, a trip to the store to get some longer shirts was necessary.
Registry...so we got an early start. With now semi, kinda, knowing that it's a boy, and hoping that they are correct, we went for it.
Over the weekend we headed over to Babies R Us and completed the research, test, and scan. It took about 2 hours, and Sean made it through with flying colors. Not a complaint in site...ok except for the shopping cart that just got in the way all the time, and he finally ditched. He did chime in on the big items, but as for the little stuff he left that up to mommy.
Week 15.5 - Dr's appointment day - So today was just a normal OB check (the technical term for a weight, blood pressure, urine test, measure and heartbeat check). All told takes about 15-20 minutes from start to finish. But Sean did join me b/c this would be the one of very very few visits that would be with the actual doctor that would deliver the baby.
***Side note...he delivered Sam (Alexis' brother) 25 years ago, and to my knowledge my mom has been seeing him ever since (well she is currently and she has a very good relationship with that dr.)
We both felt very comfortable with our doctor after the visit today, especially after talking with a few mommy friends over the past few weeks and the man is very well known. He's an expert in his field, has an amazing practice and so on. We're in good hands.
The doctor gave us (baby and I) a good bill of health, and sent us on our merry way. Jacks heartbeat was at 165 today, and the tummy measured at 14.
After my dr's appointment I had a follow up appointment at the genetic center for a 2nd trimester blood test, as well as 2 other tests that I had elected for and got approval for.
***Oh yeah, our first trimester tests all came back negative. A happy face for us.
I think that gets you guys up to date. I know I'm bad with getting things scanned and photos uploaded, but I hope to have them up for you guys soon. :)
Saturday, September 26, 2009
The day of a million Dr's appointments
First let me say, WE HAVE MADE IT TO 12 WEEKS! What a relief! Our risk for miscarriage has been greatly decreased. We can finally start to relax a bit.
So since we have made it to 12w we had our first Dr's appointment. Something we never got to with the first. This consisted of health history, weight, blood pressure, an exam, listening to the babies heart beat, and asking any questions your heart desires.
Sean did attend the visit with me as I felt he should know where the Dr's office was and it would be the first time we would actually be "listening" to the heartbeat. I also knew that my prego brain would fail me when they would ask me questions, and that it did. Sean was quick to ask a few questions for me that I had forgotten about.
The other item that were really neat was the heartbeat. We had visually seen the heartbeat on the ultrasound twice but haven't been able to hear it. So the nurse got out her doppler and put it on my belly and started to try and find the heartbeat. After a few seconds of searching, she finally found it. She said "let me turn it up...can you hear it?....can you also hear the baby moving around a lot?" Shwoo Shwoo Shwoo, baby was swimming around and wouldn't stay still for us to catch a good reading on the rate. Finally baby stopped and it was found to be at 160. A good rate.
Our next appointment was at the same office but for another ultrasound to have our elective downs syndrome testing done. With this test the technical name is "nuchal translucency." What this consists of is a measurement of the fluid or space between the babies neck. Normal range is up to 2mm at about 11 weeks, and up to about 2.8mm by 13 weeks and six days. Our results reflected 1.4. What a relief.
Side note, baby was being quite a stubborn thing just like his daddy. Baby had fallen asleep and wasn't moving around anymore so the ultrasound tech was having to do a little manual pressure or bouncing of the wand on my belly to get baby to move to get a good reading. My poor bladder.
At this time Sean had to return back to work but I was scheduled for my last appointment which was for a blood draw with the genetic center which coincides with the ultrasound. With the blood testing and other testing that is elective with the genetic center, they will be testing for any genetic abnormalities.
************
We were also given homework from our doctors office to call our health insurance company and find out a few items such as if we will have copays with pre and post pregnancy visits, as well as the hospital visit for deliver either natural or c-section. Much to my surprise, we will have no co-pays for pre and post pregnancy as well as no copay for our hospital visit. That was a sign of relief for our financial outlook. I joked with Sean that we could put that money towards diapers now.
************
Upon my return of doctors appointments I informed Sean that I had returned back to work from them. Sean quickly asked if I was more excited. I let him know that I've been about the same for a while now (probably since our last ultrasound on 09/15) but then questioned him how he was doing.
Sean throughout the 1st 12 weeks has also been quick to make sure I wasn't overly excited given out prior situation, and he would also make it known that he was still cautious but waiting for the moment in which we would get past the danger zone so he could truly express his real feelings and excitement.
Today Sean finally let me know that he has entered into the excitement part of this pregnancy and it not holding back.
So here it is. It's real, it's scary, and oh my, we're going to be parents!
So since we have made it to 12w we had our first Dr's appointment. Something we never got to with the first. This consisted of health history, weight, blood pressure, an exam, listening to the babies heart beat, and asking any questions your heart desires.
Sean did attend the visit with me as I felt he should know where the Dr's office was and it would be the first time we would actually be "listening" to the heartbeat. I also knew that my prego brain would fail me when they would ask me questions, and that it did. Sean was quick to ask a few questions for me that I had forgotten about.
The other item that were really neat was the heartbeat. We had visually seen the heartbeat on the ultrasound twice but haven't been able to hear it. So the nurse got out her doppler and put it on my belly and started to try and find the heartbeat. After a few seconds of searching, she finally found it. She said "let me turn it up...can you hear it?....can you also hear the baby moving around a lot?" Shwoo Shwoo Shwoo, baby was swimming around and wouldn't stay still for us to catch a good reading on the rate. Finally baby stopped and it was found to be at 160. A good rate.
Our next appointment was at the same office but for another ultrasound to have our elective downs syndrome testing done. With this test the technical name is "nuchal translucency." What this consists of is a measurement of the fluid or space between the babies neck. Normal range is up to 2mm at about 11 weeks, and up to about 2.8mm by 13 weeks and six days. Our results reflected 1.4. What a relief.
Side note, baby was being quite a stubborn thing just like his daddy. Baby had fallen asleep and wasn't moving around anymore so the ultrasound tech was having to do a little manual pressure or bouncing of the wand on my belly to get baby to move to get a good reading. My poor bladder.
At this time Sean had to return back to work but I was scheduled for my last appointment which was for a blood draw with the genetic center which coincides with the ultrasound. With the blood testing and other testing that is elective with the genetic center, they will be testing for any genetic abnormalities.
************
We were also given homework from our doctors office to call our health insurance company and find out a few items such as if we will have copays with pre and post pregnancy visits, as well as the hospital visit for deliver either natural or c-section. Much to my surprise, we will have no co-pays for pre and post pregnancy as well as no copay for our hospital visit. That was a sign of relief for our financial outlook. I joked with Sean that we could put that money towards diapers now.
************
Upon my return of doctors appointments I informed Sean that I had returned back to work from them. Sean quickly asked if I was more excited. I let him know that I've been about the same for a while now (probably since our last ultrasound on 09/15) but then questioned him how he was doing.
Sean throughout the 1st 12 weeks has also been quick to make sure I wasn't overly excited given out prior situation, and he would also make it known that he was still cautious but waiting for the moment in which we would get past the danger zone so he could truly express his real feelings and excitement.
Today Sean finally let me know that he has entered into the excitement part of this pregnancy and it not holding back.
So here it is. It's real, it's scary, and oh my, we're going to be parents!
Monday, September 21, 2009
A bit of good news.
So I thought instead of waiting until Fridays Dr's appointment I might call the Dr's office today to see what their thoughts were about my little situation and the 3 hour glucose test and alternatives.
The nurse called me back tonight about 6pm with a response. She offered me another test in a week or so or diabetic counseling with monitoring and a strict diet. Guess what I chose. Yup, that is right, the counseling with monitoring.
The office is currently getting authorization from the insurance company but once all is approved (a day or so) I will be given a monitor upon my visit on Friday, and I'll have to see the counselor to get a little education on diabetes (even though I don't have diabetes) and glucose. It might be annoying, but it beats the liquid stuff! Also, I think it will be educational, and good for overall health, and for family members who have to deal with it, it will help me understand better.
So, overall I'm very glad I was given this alternative.
The nurse called me back tonight about 6pm with a response. She offered me another test in a week or so or diabetic counseling with monitoring and a strict diet. Guess what I chose. Yup, that is right, the counseling with monitoring.
The office is currently getting authorization from the insurance company but once all is approved (a day or so) I will be given a monitor upon my visit on Friday, and I'll have to see the counselor to get a little education on diabetes (even though I don't have diabetes) and glucose. It might be annoying, but it beats the liquid stuff! Also, I think it will be educational, and good for overall health, and for family members who have to deal with it, it will help me understand better.
So, overall I'm very glad I was given this alternative.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
3 hour test day
So after being told that stress, as well as lack of sleep could also effect your numbers, Friday night I made sure to get as much rest as possible. The past few night have been restless (being prego and all....some nights are hard) I took a little medication to help me rest b/c my mind was already running and wouldn't calm down, worried about my test.
430am arrived Saturday morning and the alarm goes off. Time to get up and get out the door to be at the lab at 5am. I set the appointment as early as I could so that I wouldn't be as miserable and hungry later in the day.
I arrive at the lab with a line about 30 people deep waiting for the doors to open. Who the heck would be as crazy as me to get up at 430am to get blood drawn? These people are nuts. Ok I guess I am too.
So with a computer, crochet, a book and other items to keep me busy, I get settled in. I get called back just a few minutes later for my first blood draw. My fasting blood draw. Before leaving the house I tested and I was at 88. According to medical web sites (I forgot to ask my doctor Friday what the cut offs were for all 3 tests) I needed to be under 90. According to the home meter I was.
After the blood draw, I was given the dreaded liquid. This time I was instructed to drink it within 10 minutes and I had to drink it infront of the lab tech. No pressure or anything...last time I got to drink in the waiting room.
I finish within my time frame. This stuff is NASTY I tell you. You would think a sugar drink wouldn't be so bad but it's like having someone put a packet of splenda on the back of your throat with every swig. All I wanted was a small sip of water between each swig to wash the sugar mess down. I asked, and was declined. My lady was nice but I guess you can't have a lot of water. :(
I head back out to the waiting room in hopes that this drink would finish its trail down my esophagus. I returned the phone call back to my mother in law who wanted to see how things were going. Now about 15 minutes later I had to tell her that I needed to call her back as I wasn't feeling well and needed to concentrate on keeping my drink down.
Nope, just about 30 seconds later, water bottle in hand (to try and get this taste out of my hand) I bolted for the door, start pacing the walkway, and then it happened. Yup, the drink didn't agree with me and the plants got a sugary treat.
I had to embarrassingly tread back into the PACKED waiting room and tell the receptionist that I had just gotten sick and would be unable to complete my test today. They asked if I wanted another drink or if I wanted to come back. I quick said, I am going back home and going to bed.
Totally disappointed b/c throughout my whole 1st trimester I haven't gotten sick at all and what is the 1 thing that makes me sick, a glucose drink.
Hopefully at our doctors appointment next week I can convince the nurse and dr to let me retake the 1 hour test and promise to fast since that liquid didn't make me sick. Fingers crossed.
430am arrived Saturday morning and the alarm goes off. Time to get up and get out the door to be at the lab at 5am. I set the appointment as early as I could so that I wouldn't be as miserable and hungry later in the day.
I arrive at the lab with a line about 30 people deep waiting for the doors to open. Who the heck would be as crazy as me to get up at 430am to get blood drawn? These people are nuts. Ok I guess I am too.
So with a computer, crochet, a book and other items to keep me busy, I get settled in. I get called back just a few minutes later for my first blood draw. My fasting blood draw. Before leaving the house I tested and I was at 88. According to medical web sites (I forgot to ask my doctor Friday what the cut offs were for all 3 tests) I needed to be under 90. According to the home meter I was.
After the blood draw, I was given the dreaded liquid. This time I was instructed to drink it within 10 minutes and I had to drink it infront of the lab tech. No pressure or anything...last time I got to drink in the waiting room.
I finish within my time frame. This stuff is NASTY I tell you. You would think a sugar drink wouldn't be so bad but it's like having someone put a packet of splenda on the back of your throat with every swig. All I wanted was a small sip of water between each swig to wash the sugar mess down. I asked, and was declined. My lady was nice but I guess you can't have a lot of water. :(
I head back out to the waiting room in hopes that this drink would finish its trail down my esophagus. I returned the phone call back to my mother in law who wanted to see how things were going. Now about 15 minutes later I had to tell her that I needed to call her back as I wasn't feeling well and needed to concentrate on keeping my drink down.
Nope, just about 30 seconds later, water bottle in hand (to try and get this taste out of my hand) I bolted for the door, start pacing the walkway, and then it happened. Yup, the drink didn't agree with me and the plants got a sugary treat.
I had to embarrassingly tread back into the PACKED waiting room and tell the receptionist that I had just gotten sick and would be unable to complete my test today. They asked if I wanted another drink or if I wanted to come back. I quick said, I am going back home and going to bed.
Totally disappointed b/c throughout my whole 1st trimester I haven't gotten sick at all and what is the 1 thing that makes me sick, a glucose drink.
Hopefully at our doctors appointment next week I can convince the nurse and dr to let me retake the 1 hour test and promise to fast since that liquid didn't make me sick. Fingers crossed.
The results are in from my 5 tests...not good :(
So Thursday 09/17 came around and I get a phone call while at work to talk about my test results.
HCG = good
Progesterone = 25 (lower than last test but still above normal)
Glucose = FAIL
Yup, I failed my glucose 1 hour test. After asking if I could just redo my 1 hour test, I was declined and then advised that I would have to take the 3 hour glucose test, which the fluid you have to drink is twice as sweet, and you must fast as well as can't eat while you're doing the test.
After being disappointed in my score and the fact that I failed, and that I would now have to plan the time to take this 3 hour test (you're unable to leave the lab for the 3-4 hours you're doing the test btw), be uncomfortable while doing the test (prego=hungry always in the morning) and so on, I was not looking forward to this 3 hour test.
The nurse faxed over the lab slip and I made preparations to take the test on the weekend.
Worried that I might be a diabetic at heart and not know it, I wanted to see what my sugar levels were currently. I rang up my mother in law who has recently in the last year been diagnosed with diabetes, and I questioned if I could use her meter for a few tests. After work Thursday I stopped by the house and got the low down and started my testing.
Average numbers are between 70 and 140 according to online.
My first test resulted in 112, not bad since it was about 5pm and I haven't eaten since lunch.
After dinner it was in the 90's
Friday morning, my fasting number was 83. Excellent fasting number.
Friday 2 hours (peak of your sugar levels after you eat) after breakfast (the same breakfast I had 3 hours before my 1 hour glucose test = 120's.
I continue to test throughout the day and find that my levels are all normal.
I think that I have found my problem and why I have failed my test. My breakfast (which they say you can have a light breakfast a few hours before the test...which I took advantage of) put my numbers high, and then the glucose drink, just set me way over the cut off limit.
After my research I realize that I never did find out what my scores were for my 1 hour test. I give the dr's office a call and they advise me that the cut off is 130 and my scores were in the 150's. Exactly what I thought happened. My breakfast set me over.
So with that figured out I said I would complete the 3 hour test and know that I would pass when I would fast. I prepared myself, set my appointment and started to get ready.....
HCG = good
Progesterone = 25 (lower than last test but still above normal)
Glucose = FAIL
Yup, I failed my glucose 1 hour test. After asking if I could just redo my 1 hour test, I was declined and then advised that I would have to take the 3 hour glucose test, which the fluid you have to drink is twice as sweet, and you must fast as well as can't eat while you're doing the test.
After being disappointed in my score and the fact that I failed, and that I would now have to plan the time to take this 3 hour test (you're unable to leave the lab for the 3-4 hours you're doing the test btw), be uncomfortable while doing the test (prego=hungry always in the morning) and so on, I was not looking forward to this 3 hour test.
The nurse faxed over the lab slip and I made preparations to take the test on the weekend.
Worried that I might be a diabetic at heart and not know it, I wanted to see what my sugar levels were currently. I rang up my mother in law who has recently in the last year been diagnosed with diabetes, and I questioned if I could use her meter for a few tests. After work Thursday I stopped by the house and got the low down and started my testing.
Average numbers are between 70 and 140 according to online.
My first test resulted in 112, not bad since it was about 5pm and I haven't eaten since lunch.
After dinner it was in the 90's
Friday morning, my fasting number was 83. Excellent fasting number.
Friday 2 hours (peak of your sugar levels after you eat) after breakfast (the same breakfast I had 3 hours before my 1 hour glucose test = 120's.
I continue to test throughout the day and find that my levels are all normal.
I think that I have found my problem and why I have failed my test. My breakfast (which they say you can have a light breakfast a few hours before the test...which I took advantage of) put my numbers high, and then the glucose drink, just set me way over the cut off limit.
After my research I realize that I never did find out what my scores were for my 1 hour test. I give the dr's office a call and they advise me that the cut off is 130 and my scores were in the 150's. Exactly what I thought happened. My breakfast set me over.
So with that figured out I said I would complete the 3 hour test and know that I would pass when I would fast. I prepared myself, set my appointment and started to get ready.....
2 Surprises in 1
Thursday Sept 15th, my 27th bday came around and what I thought was going to be a calm day turned into quite the event.
Earlier in day as you know we had an ultrasound and had an amazing time.
Later in the evening Sean had set up dinner at a bbq joint with the moms. We arrive at about 6:30pm and start to walk in. Just as I open the door and look around, I notice my dad and his wife Barb who have flown in just for the week. What a surprise :)
The second thing for the night was that we had planned on telling the moms that we were expecting, and then telling the rest of the family after dinner. I had prepared a little package which included a photo and a note from baby Plunkett.
Sean, the great husband that he was helped to plan the surprise of my dad coming into town and couldn't tell me that "hey, your dad will also be at dinner, you might want to make 3 pictures." But it was awesome to have my dad at dinner to also let him know that a grandchild would be arriving in April. It was a special night.
Earlier in day as you know we had an ultrasound and had an amazing time.
Later in the evening Sean had set up dinner at a bbq joint with the moms. We arrive at about 6:30pm and start to walk in. Just as I open the door and look around, I notice my dad and his wife Barb who have flown in just for the week. What a surprise :)
The second thing for the night was that we had planned on telling the moms that we were expecting, and then telling the rest of the family after dinner. I had prepared a little package which included a photo and a note from baby Plunkett.
Sean, the great husband that he was helped to plan the surprise of my dad coming into town and couldn't tell me that "hey, your dad will also be at dinner, you might want to make 3 pictures." But it was awesome to have my dad at dinner to also let him know that a grandchild would be arriving in April. It was a special night.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Best birthday EVER!
Today, Sept 15, 2009, also my 27th birthday we also had a scheduled ultrasound at 12pm. Knowing that it was just a routine ultrasound to get another measurement check to see where my progress was I was a little apprehensive that something might or could be wrong but on the flip side of the coin, I knew that nothing was wrong and my emotions were hyperactive and that today could be a really really fun day.
Sean and I arrived, checked in and waited our turn. Just a few minutes later we get called back. Guess what? It was the lady who did my very first ultrasound for the miscarriage and in the same room. I moved those emotions aside and focused on the positive and boy was I glad that I did.
After a few seconds of moving the wand around, long behold we have baby Plunkett!!! A distinct head, arms and legs. Guess what the best part was, baby Plunkett was giving us a show of how he (don't know the sex yet but feeling like it might be a he) he would give us a good wave and show us his arm and hand. :) It was amazing!!
I asked our tech if we could have a picture to show the crowd and she agreed. With our pictures in hand we walked out of the ultrasound place and told Sean "This is my best bday ever!" Seeing little Plunkett made everything so much more real!
We have decided that since things look good we would go through with telling the family.
Family here we come!
Sean and I arrived, checked in and waited our turn. Just a few minutes later we get called back. Guess what? It was the lady who did my very first ultrasound for the miscarriage and in the same room. I moved those emotions aside and focused on the positive and boy was I glad that I did.
After a few seconds of moving the wand around, long behold we have baby Plunkett!!! A distinct head, arms and legs. Guess what the best part was, baby Plunkett was giving us a show of how he (don't know the sex yet but feeling like it might be a he) he would give us a good wave and show us his arm and hand. :) It was amazing!!
I asked our tech if we could have a picture to show the crowd and she agreed. With our pictures in hand we walked out of the ultrasound place and told Sean "This is my best bday ever!" Seeing little Plunkett made everything so much more real!
We have decided that since things look good we would go through with telling the family.
Family here we come!
Monday, September 14, 2009
A physical, blood test and more blood tests....oh my!
Vacation day 1 (Sept 14th) started out with an early morning message from our lab that was doing our physicals to tell me that since I was prego, no need to fast. I was more than happy with that information seeing as how our appointment wasn't until 11am and there was no way I was going to be able to make it until 11am without feeling horribly sick.
Our physicals for life insurance went just fine and two viles of blood and a urine test we were out the door.
I made sure to bring my new lab slip with me just in case I felt the want/need to also complete it while I was down in the area. I decided that it might be a good idea so we headed over.
By this time it's about 1230 when we arrive and Sean still having not eaten anything decides to wait until I was all done to get something to eat.
Upon arrival I made sure to let the attendant know that I had to do a glucose test. They gave me my juice and said drink in 5 minutes and then you'll have to wait 1 hour to be seen.
Let me just tell you...the juice was cold but it tasted like BUTT! They tried to cover it up with a lemon lime flavor but the consistency was twice as thick as water and non-carbonated so it was like flat soda. A few times I had to choke it down.
I waited my 1 hour and was sent back. The lady behind the counter started pulling out tubes to fill and I thought it would never end. She finally stopped at 5 and also instructed me to use the restroom for a urine test.
By this time I was ALL TESTED OUT!
2pm arrives and Sean and I are STARVING!!! We finally get out and head to the local taco bell. Taco bell never tasted so good!
I think I'm over testing for a long long while! Hehe, at least tomorrows ultrasound doesn't require blood, urine or otherwise. Just a full bladder, and hopefully some cute lil pictures where we might be able to hear the baby as well as see some arms and legs. :)
Our physicals for life insurance went just fine and two viles of blood and a urine test we were out the door.
I made sure to bring my new lab slip with me just in case I felt the want/need to also complete it while I was down in the area. I decided that it might be a good idea so we headed over.
By this time it's about 1230 when we arrive and Sean still having not eaten anything decides to wait until I was all done to get something to eat.
Upon arrival I made sure to let the attendant know that I had to do a glucose test. They gave me my juice and said drink in 5 minutes and then you'll have to wait 1 hour to be seen.
Let me just tell you...the juice was cold but it tasted like BUTT! They tried to cover it up with a lemon lime flavor but the consistency was twice as thick as water and non-carbonated so it was like flat soda. A few times I had to choke it down.
I waited my 1 hour and was sent back. The lady behind the counter started pulling out tubes to fill and I thought it would never end. She finally stopped at 5 and also instructed me to use the restroom for a urine test.
By this time I was ALL TESTED OUT!
2pm arrives and Sean and I are STARVING!!! We finally get out and head to the local taco bell. Taco bell never tasted so good!
I think I'm over testing for a long long while! Hehe, at least tomorrows ultrasound doesn't require blood, urine or otherwise. Just a full bladder, and hopefully some cute lil pictures where we might be able to hear the baby as well as see some arms and legs. :)
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Official unbuttoning of the pants
Each Friday at work is casual wear and we're able to wear jeans. Morning arrived and my normal sets of jeans that I wear, I pulled on and found they were still able to button. Yay! It wasn't until I was in the car, and trying to down my breakfast and on my way to work, that I found, "holy cow, this is really uncomfortable."
Finally my day has arrived where things are starting not to "feel comfortable." Throughout the day I attempted to try and keep the pants buttoned but found that things were just much more comfortable un-done.
I'm thinking in the next few days/weeks my cheater weapon instead of maternity clothes (called a belly band) will be coming out, and coming out to stay for quite a long time.
The belly band for those of you who might need a little explanation is a very elastic/giving fabric that is kind of like a tube top. They come in black and white, and can be found in the maternity section of any store. To use them, you unbutton and/or unzip your pants/short and you place the belly band over your unzipped items and it will extent to the bottom of your breasts but can be rolled down to not be annoying while a belly still might be small. This way you're able to still keep your pants/shorts on without being exposed and you're comfortable while not having to purchase maternity clothes that you'll only be able to wear for a few months.
Finally my day has arrived where things are starting not to "feel comfortable." Throughout the day I attempted to try and keep the pants buttoned but found that things were just much more comfortable un-done.
I'm thinking in the next few days/weeks my cheater weapon instead of maternity clothes (called a belly band) will be coming out, and coming out to stay for quite a long time.
The belly band for those of you who might need a little explanation is a very elastic/giving fabric that is kind of like a tube top. They come in black and white, and can be found in the maternity section of any store. To use them, you unbutton and/or unzip your pants/short and you place the belly band over your unzipped items and it will extent to the bottom of your breasts but can be rolled down to not be annoying while a belly still might be small. This way you're able to still keep your pants/shorts on without being exposed and you're comfortable while not having to purchase maternity clothes that you'll only be able to wear for a few months.
I opened my big mouth
Yesterday morning led to reviewing a few items that we rec'd at our orientation with our first pregnancy. With the second since the two were so close together I opt'd out of doing orientation again but found a lab slip in our packet. It dawned on me that "Oh, do I need to any testing done before our first appointment?"
Later in the day I make a quick phone call to the doctors office, explained the situation, and yup they confirmed that I needed to get this testing done in the next two weeks. They questioned my fax number and faxed over the lab slip.
Just a few short minutes later I'm holding the lab slip. Upon further review....THEY WANT 5 STINK'N TESTS!!! Yes another trip to the lab, with more tests then I can ever imagine.
So just to give you an idea, we (Sean and I) have 3 days off for "vacation," you know the kind of vacation you stay home and do nothing. But as of today, we have a line up of 2 physicals for life insurance (and blood tests), an ultrasound, and a trip to the lab for 5 tests. Lol it's sounding like a vacation at at doctors offices so far :)
Later in the day I make a quick phone call to the doctors office, explained the situation, and yup they confirmed that I needed to get this testing done in the next two weeks. They questioned my fax number and faxed over the lab slip.
Just a few short minutes later I'm holding the lab slip. Upon further review....THEY WANT 5 STINK'N TESTS!!! Yes another trip to the lab, with more tests then I can ever imagine.
So just to give you an idea, we (Sean and I) have 3 days off for "vacation," you know the kind of vacation you stay home and do nothing. But as of today, we have a line up of 2 physicals for life insurance (and blood tests), an ultrasound, and a trip to the lab for 5 tests. Lol it's sounding like a vacation at at doctors offices so far :)
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Random checking of my voice mail
So my cell phone voice mail is something that I don't regularly check. I have a tendency to just call the person back that has just called. Well while washing the cars today I missed a call and "needed" to check my voice mail from and unknown caller. I'm glad that I did.
Somewhere in my week, I must have missed a call from the doctors office and didn't realize it. They had informed me that my doctor had reviewed my ultrasound results and found that it was done at earlier then about 6.5 weeks and he wants me to redo my ultrasound to make sure the result are accurate for my due date.
Come Tuesday (Monday is a holiday) I'll be making an appointment.
As I was telling Liana (brothers girlfriend) I'm really excited that they want another ultrasound b/c I get so see everything again. This time I'll be 10 weeks + and we'll be able to make our arms, legs and a head. Last time it literally was just a blob of black with a flicker.
I feel very fortunate that I've had or will have two ultrasounds at such an early gestational time. Upon talking with another friend who is at about 20 weeks now, she's is just NOW getting around to having her first ultrasound. I would be so on edge if I had to wait that long. I would be at my doctors doorstep begging for an ultrasound. :)
Yay for ultrasounds.
Somewhere in my week, I must have missed a call from the doctors office and didn't realize it. They had informed me that my doctor had reviewed my ultrasound results and found that it was done at earlier then about 6.5 weeks and he wants me to redo my ultrasound to make sure the result are accurate for my due date.
Come Tuesday (Monday is a holiday) I'll be making an appointment.
As I was telling Liana (brothers girlfriend) I'm really excited that they want another ultrasound b/c I get so see everything again. This time I'll be 10 weeks + and we'll be able to make our arms, legs and a head. Last time it literally was just a blob of black with a flicker.
I feel very fortunate that I've had or will have two ultrasounds at such an early gestational time. Upon talking with another friend who is at about 20 weeks now, she's is just NOW getting around to having her first ultrasound. I would be so on edge if I had to wait that long. I would be at my doctors doorstep begging for an ultrasound. :)
Yay for ultrasounds.
Crib
After some research, bargain hunting, and shopping I thought for sure I would find something on "Craigslist" to save a few dollars and reuse a gently used crib.
***Backround, I have been obsessed with the movie "Father of the Bride" since it came out. Parts of our wedding were based upon it and now with baby on board I plan to do the same. I might be crazy, but it's been a love of mine for many many years.
So prior to doing any hunting I tried to find a photo of what the nursery looked like in the movie, online. I was able to pull up a photo for reference and quickly discovered that the crib in the movie was an iron crib, something you don't see very often and something that would most likely be at a "Shi-Shi" LA botique with a very large price tag. I did some searching at some retail stores online, and pretty much I was correct. They wanted about $800-$1000 for an iron crib.
I thought for sure my days of having an iron crib were over so I started to explore the current options out on the market.
While craigslist hunting one random day, I came across an iron crib that was current and up to the safety standards for a DIRT CHEEP price. I emailed Sean and informed him of this current deal I came across and he gave me the ok to give the person a call. Come to find out it was sold.
So keeping my eyes open that maybe in the next 9 months I would come across another deal like that one, I was at Babies R Us trying to figure out the difference in all these types of cribs on a lunch break. Long behold, as I'm just getting ready to exit the store...I turn around and here stands a silver iron crib on clearance! I again was in shock. No looking to buy a crib so soon, it was such a killer deal, better then I could get a used crib for on craigslist, I came back after work to place the order.
Just a few short days after the order was placed, we are the proud new owners of an iron crib.
Now, what to do with this crib...
***Backround, I have been obsessed with the movie "Father of the Bride" since it came out. Parts of our wedding were based upon it and now with baby on board I plan to do the same. I might be crazy, but it's been a love of mine for many many years.
So prior to doing any hunting I tried to find a photo of what the nursery looked like in the movie, online. I was able to pull up a photo for reference and quickly discovered that the crib in the movie was an iron crib, something you don't see very often and something that would most likely be at a "Shi-Shi" LA botique with a very large price tag. I did some searching at some retail stores online, and pretty much I was correct. They wanted about $800-$1000 for an iron crib.
I thought for sure my days of having an iron crib were over so I started to explore the current options out on the market.
While craigslist hunting one random day, I came across an iron crib that was current and up to the safety standards for a DIRT CHEEP price. I emailed Sean and informed him of this current deal I came across and he gave me the ok to give the person a call. Come to find out it was sold.
So keeping my eyes open that maybe in the next 9 months I would come across another deal like that one, I was at Babies R Us trying to figure out the difference in all these types of cribs on a lunch break. Long behold, as I'm just getting ready to exit the store...I turn around and here stands a silver iron crib on clearance! I again was in shock. No looking to buy a crib so soon, it was such a killer deal, better then I could get a used crib for on craigslist, I came back after work to place the order.
Just a few short days after the order was placed, we are the proud new owners of an iron crib.
Now, what to do with this crib...
Heartbeat,...so cool!
So after we hit a certain point on the HCG scale they sent us in for an ultrasound to find out how big the baby was, do some measurements, and calculate my due date.
Friday arrived and I was told to drink two full bottles of water before arriving so they could get a good picture. This was VERY difficult...I think I only got like 1.5 down before I felt horribly uncomfortable and decided to stop.
Sean didn't think he was going to be able to make it due to scheduling conflicts at work, but some how some way he make it work. Yay, for that and I was very thankful.
Going into this appointment I was ridden with sadness and apprehension. As you might gather, with the first pregnancy this was the location in which I was told I was having a miscarriage. So to have Sean with me,...was very calming.
I get called back (and into a different room then the first that took place - yay) and she set me up and starts her "looking." Just then Sean walks in as he was just arriving. A few minutes later I finally ask, "do everything look ok, can we see a heartbeat?" The tech states, "yes everything looks fine and let me show you the heartbeat but I won't be able to tell you your due date today until the radiologist takes a look and does the calculations." She stated that we would not be able to hear the heartbeat, but would be able to see the flicker.
Let me just tell you, I was relieved!!! Yes although only about 7 weeks at this point, I atleast knew that something was going right until this point.
She finished up her "looking" and sent us on our merry way. As Sean and I headed to the parking lot he comments "that was pretty cool."
***Note no pictures of our baby Plunkett at this point as it was office policy at the ultrasound office. They stated they would provide them late.
Friday arrived and I was told to drink two full bottles of water before arriving so they could get a good picture. This was VERY difficult...I think I only got like 1.5 down before I felt horribly uncomfortable and decided to stop.
Sean didn't think he was going to be able to make it due to scheduling conflicts at work, but some how some way he make it work. Yay, for that and I was very thankful.
Going into this appointment I was ridden with sadness and apprehension. As you might gather, with the first pregnancy this was the location in which I was told I was having a miscarriage. So to have Sean with me,...was very calming.
I get called back (and into a different room then the first that took place - yay) and she set me up and starts her "looking." Just then Sean walks in as he was just arriving. A few minutes later I finally ask, "do everything look ok, can we see a heartbeat?" The tech states, "yes everything looks fine and let me show you the heartbeat but I won't be able to tell you your due date today until the radiologist takes a look and does the calculations." She stated that we would not be able to hear the heartbeat, but would be able to see the flicker.
Let me just tell you, I was relieved!!! Yes although only about 7 weeks at this point, I atleast knew that something was going right until this point.
She finished up her "looking" and sent us on our merry way. As Sean and I headed to the parking lot he comments "that was pretty cool."
***Note no pictures of our baby Plunkett at this point as it was office policy at the ultrasound office. They stated they would provide them late.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
I'm finally past 6.5 weeks
So the miscarriage happened at 6.5 weeks. All I wanted to do was get past this first hurdle and we finally made it. Few!
At this point anything any everything pregnancy symptom related is hitting me. Mood swings, cramps, soreness, cravings, horrible morning sickness all day long (no tossing of the cookies yet), tiredness which puts me in bed at 830-9pm, dizzy spells, and so on.
I have quickly learned that my morning sickness has stemmed from my taking of vitamins. I finally figure out a schedule that works with me and that I don't have to feel like I'm sea sick. It's called taking them with dinner and sleeping through the sickness. What an awesome blessing this was.
Over the next few days and weeks my feelings of disconnect were getting stronger and stronger and fear that "will I ever connect like I did with the 1st pregnancy" was starting to set in. A minor melt down, and a conversation with a few very close friends and a husband set my emotions into perspective. It was only normal to have this fear and worry given the circumstances of a first pregnancy ending suddenly.
Now with each day passing, my connection with baby Plunkett is starting to grow as we get closer and closer to getting out of the "danger" zone. Excitement is growing :)
At this point anything any everything pregnancy symptom related is hitting me. Mood swings, cramps, soreness, cravings, horrible morning sickness all day long (no tossing of the cookies yet), tiredness which puts me in bed at 830-9pm, dizzy spells, and so on.
I have quickly learned that my morning sickness has stemmed from my taking of vitamins. I finally figure out a schedule that works with me and that I don't have to feel like I'm sea sick. It's called taking them with dinner and sleeping through the sickness. What an awesome blessing this was.
Over the next few days and weeks my feelings of disconnect were getting stronger and stronger and fear that "will I ever connect like I did with the 1st pregnancy" was starting to set in. A minor melt down, and a conversation with a few very close friends and a husband set my emotions into perspective. It was only normal to have this fear and worry given the circumstances of a first pregnancy ending suddenly.
Now with each day passing, my connection with baby Plunkett is starting to grow as we get closer and closer to getting out of the "danger" zone. Excitement is growing :)
"Insert needle here- X"
Test #1 - This first test was to confirm that yes in fact you are pregnant. I was half expecting for some odd reason that they would tell me no b/c just a week prior to doing an at home pregnancy test, I had just completed a 3 week series of blood tests to make sure that my miscarriage hormones had all been expelled and back to zero. I had thought for some reason I might still have some left over hormones when they called to tell me that "Yes, your are expecting. It's very early, and we have detected a problem in which can be resolved with medication." My first week levels were 500 for HCG and 18 for progesterone. My HCG was looking fine but it was the progesterone they were worried about.
After talking with my awesome nurse who calls me after hours and answers ALL my millions of questions, she informs me that my levels for progesterone should be at 20 or higher. I quickly questioned what this hormone does. The nurse informed me that it helps to keep a viable baby. She stated that she would be calling in a prescription immediately and I would need to start taking it that night.
I then also made sure to ask if this RX had any site effects. Susan stated no but quickly did I learn, that ontop of the normal lack of pregnancy sleep, this drug would only enhance my tossing and turning at night. Sleep was at a very minimum due to getting a little bit of insomnia. :(
Nurse Susan also stated that I would need to keep up my blood test for 3 more weeks so they could monitor my levels.
Test #2 - Results are in. HCG 1500 and progesterone 20
Test #3 - HCG 75000 and progesterone at 21 - the nurse is still a little worried about my progesterone at this point as she says that it should start to rise give the fact that the baby is growing and things are developing.
Test #4 - HCG 150,000 and progesterone 28 - the nurse is very happy and says thing are looking VERY nice
***Side note...I still can't help but think that maybe the first pregnancy might have been progesterone related. Just a normal human being reaction but I'm glad to know that they did catch it this round and that it can be prevented or looked for in future pregnancies.
***Another side note. The progesterone is only needed until about 12 weeks which at that point a placenta is formed enough to take over the production of that hormone.
By the end of my 3 weeks of miscarriage blood tests, and my 4 weeks of the new pregnancy I joke with Sean and say "I need a tatoo that says - Insert needle here-" only to be told that "oh honey...you're going to have one more blood test for our life insurance physical." I'm really starting to feel like a pin cushion/vampire. :)
After talking with my awesome nurse who calls me after hours and answers ALL my millions of questions, she informs me that my levels for progesterone should be at 20 or higher. I quickly questioned what this hormone does. The nurse informed me that it helps to keep a viable baby. She stated that she would be calling in a prescription immediately and I would need to start taking it that night.
I then also made sure to ask if this RX had any site effects. Susan stated no but quickly did I learn, that ontop of the normal lack of pregnancy sleep, this drug would only enhance my tossing and turning at night. Sleep was at a very minimum due to getting a little bit of insomnia. :(
Nurse Susan also stated that I would need to keep up my blood test for 3 more weeks so they could monitor my levels.
Test #2 - Results are in. HCG 1500 and progesterone 20
Test #3 - HCG 75000 and progesterone at 21 - the nurse is still a little worried about my progesterone at this point as she says that it should start to rise give the fact that the baby is growing and things are developing.
Test #4 - HCG 150,000 and progesterone 28 - the nurse is very happy and says thing are looking VERY nice
***Side note...I still can't help but think that maybe the first pregnancy might have been progesterone related. Just a normal human being reaction but I'm glad to know that they did catch it this round and that it can be prevented or looked for in future pregnancies.
***Another side note. The progesterone is only needed until about 12 weeks which at that point a placenta is formed enough to take over the production of that hormone.
By the end of my 3 weeks of miscarriage blood tests, and my 4 weeks of the new pregnancy I joke with Sean and say "I need a tatoo that says - Insert needle here-" only to be told that "oh honey...you're going to have one more blood test for our life insurance physical." I'm really starting to feel like a pin cushion/vampire. :)
Telling the Doctor about our "boo boo"
So as you can imagine we might have been told to wait a little bit after our miscarriage to start trying again. With a little bit of research, I found that the only reason for "waiting" was to acuratly calculate the due date.
Should our Dr's orders have been for medical reason, I might have obeyed but we also weren't expecting to have things happen so soon either. Oops!
So with a wrist slap expected any time soon, I picked up the phone and called the Dr. The first question they ask you is when was your last cycle. I had to break the news....expecting the wrist slap, the only thing I got was,..."you'll just have to have an ultrasound when your levels reach a certain number so we can measure the baby and determine the due date."
With such news in hand, I was relieved. We then set our next few appointments in hopes that we would be able to reach those dates without complication and a lab slip sent in the mail to confirm that we were in fact expecting.
Should our Dr's orders have been for medical reason, I might have obeyed but we also weren't expecting to have things happen so soon either. Oops!
So with a wrist slap expected any time soon, I picked up the phone and called the Dr. The first question they ask you is when was your last cycle. I had to break the news....expecting the wrist slap, the only thing I got was,..."you'll just have to have an ultrasound when your levels reach a certain number so we can measure the baby and determine the due date."
With such news in hand, I was relieved. We then set our next few appointments in hopes that we would be able to reach those dates without complication and a lab slip sent in the mail to confirm that we were in fact expecting.
Time to tell Daddy
Just a few short days after I digested the fact that we could really be expecting again, I thought it was time to tell the daddy.
With a little help from a certain furry friend, I enlisted the help of Abby, Seans 2nd best friend, a red and white cavelier king charles. After work, I picked her up and we devised a plan. Probably one you've seen before. I drafted a cute little note and tied it to Ms Abby's collar.
Now we just wait....tick tock tick tock....
Sean has finally arrived home from work. Just a few short minutes after he arrives home he notices our special little note. (Pictures to come later)
Sean just a little stunned that it happened so quick, was excited and ready for what was to come.
With a little help from a certain furry friend, I enlisted the help of Abby, Seans 2nd best friend, a red and white cavelier king charles. After work, I picked her up and we devised a plan. Probably one you've seen before. I drafted a cute little note and tied it to Ms Abby's collar.
Now we just wait....tick tock tick tock....
Sean has finally arrived home from work. Just a few short minutes after he arrives home he notices our special little note. (Pictures to come later)
Sean just a little stunned that it happened so quick, was excited and ready for what was to come.
Testing testing testing....
So, still feeling in a funk between the miscarriage just 4.5 weeks ago and the thought that we could be pregnant yet again, I busted out the pregnancy tests again.
July 30th arrived.....Feeling kind of odd I tested. Pee, wait, pace, wait....My funny feeling was confirmed. Ok maybe....the positive line was oh so faint, and not getting any darker. I slept on it and said I would re-test in a few day.
July 31st....ok so my "few days" turned into the next morning. Pee, wait, pace, wait...yup same faint line. The thought in which a friend told me at the beginning of this process is "a line is a line" came to my head when trying to decide if I should accept my faint line. So with that I considered myself pregnant. Thoughts were rushing over me that I didn't want to get too excited in fear that we would have the same situation as #1.
August 1st...yeah , I just wanted to make sure. It was the same. A line :) The 3rd time is the charm I guess.
July 30th arrived.....Feeling kind of odd I tested. Pee, wait, pace, wait....My funny feeling was confirmed. Ok maybe....the positive line was oh so faint, and not getting any darker. I slept on it and said I would re-test in a few day.
July 31st....ok so my "few days" turned into the next morning. Pee, wait, pace, wait...yup same faint line. The thought in which a friend told me at the beginning of this process is "a line is a line" came to my head when trying to decide if I should accept my faint line. So with that I considered myself pregnant. Thoughts were rushing over me that I didn't want to get too excited in fear that we would have the same situation as #1.
August 1st...yeah , I just wanted to make sure. It was the same. A line :) The 3rd time is the charm I guess.
Surprise!
Yup, you guess it, the Plunketts have done it again. Just 4 1/2 short weeks after an event that will forever be with us, the shock of a lifetime was presented to us again.
This blog was created to catch you up to date while we kept things hush hush, as well as to keep you up to date while we might not be able to be with you in person.
Time to get you up to date....
This blog was created to catch you up to date while we kept things hush hush, as well as to keep you up to date while we might not be able to be with you in person.
Time to get you up to date....
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