My Birth Story

March 26, 2010 I was awoken with a slight gush of what I thought was a restroom visit. After contemplating if it was in fact a bladder control issue and about to get out of bed, I was yet visited by another gush. It then dawned on me that at 3:40am I had yes, broken my water.

With a quick holler to Sean and no answer, I tried the shake, and that didn't work, so Sean then swears I whacked him on the head (which I didn't) I just simply took my hand and arm and swung it over to get him to wake up.

I then made a phone call to my ob's office and got the night nurse who then informed me that I would need to make my way to the hospital. I then weighed my options knowing that once my water broke I had 24 hours to labor, I thought I would give Sean a few more hours sleep since he wouldn't be getting any the next few days.

9:30am rolled around and I woke up Sean for good. By this point I never had fallen back asleep as I was doing dishes laundry and getting the house ready for our house guest that would be taking care of our furry friend Abby.

Upon our arrival to the hospital I was checked in and hooked up. I was initially checked and still at a 1cm and contracting but it wasn't regular or intense yet. After the nurse consulted with my OB the decision was made to start pitocin.

After a few hours I was given a few internal monitors that didn't feel like puppies licking me. They hurt like crazy getting put in. In between contractions a contraction monitor and then later a hear rate monitor was placed to get a better reading on everything.

After several hours of laboring things starting getting more intense. I was given up to 14ml of pitocin out of 16 and the pain was picking up. At this point I was bout a 2-3cm and asked for an epidural.

The placement of the epidural again wasn't kind. Once it was all done and over with I was very relieved but Sean on the other hand was my support both physically and emotionally and his poor belt loops took a beating while getting my epidural. I was very thankful it was him infront of me and not some poor nurse that I would have twisted into pieces.

Again a few more hours passed and by now I should be very well advanced into labor but the doctor came in and only found that I was about a 4cm minus 2 station and 70-80% effaced.

The decision was made at midnight that a csection was the only way this child was going to come out.

After a few preparations I was wheeled into the OR. I didn't want to see the OR due to fear of freaking out so I placed a washcloth over my eyes until I heard that little noise that would be my son being born, Mr. Jack Stephen Plunkett.

At 1am exact Mr. Jack Stephen Plunkett, all 9lbs 15oz and 21 inches of him entered this world.

The doctor looked at him and laughed saying "this kid is HUGE!"

I asked Sean again, "how big is he?" I was in shock that what we knew was going to be a big kid was THAT BIG!!!

After I was sewn up I was taken into recovery until about 3:30am in which the immediate family got to greet the new addition.

At about 4am we were placed in our final resting place and continued our visit for the next 3 days.

During this time we had several visitors that wanted to meet Jack and say hello. I myself was still recovering and having a tough time with things. I was dealing with pain, several different rashes, lack of sleep, and emotions/hormones going crazy.

I did suffer a bit of postpartum depression but I was warned b/c of my previous history with anxiety. With an increase in medication and a few days to make the adjustment, I was feeling much better. Also a change in scenery helped in which Sean and I upon our arrival home made it a point to get out of the house each day such as a park, the grocery store, a walk and so on.

Also one other bummer that I encountered was a reaction to elastic and pain medication. After delivery the doctor gave me a binder that is like a back brace that I wrapped around my tummy that helped to provide support and keep everything all sucked in. Well I quickly developed a rash from the elastic and sweat that was brewing under it. So that was really itchy. Then I was finding myself itching like crazy during feedings and found that my pain medication that I was sent home with I was allergic to and broke out with hives all over my hips, legs and feet.

After doing a bit of research and calling the doctors I found out that I could help to relieve the itching by taking an antihistamine but it could decrease my milk supply. I wasn't about to jeopardize my supply as I was adamant that I was going to breast feed. After about 3 days of sleepless nights, and tears b/c I was exhausted I broke down and purchased the Claritin and that was the best decision I ever made. About 2 weeks later they finally were all gone.

I have been healing great, my scar is very minimal, very flat (I was expecting it to be his huge puffy raised red thing) and upon my first inspection when I got home I was very pleased. My doctor did a great job.

Monitoring, 36w 3d Doc Visit, and Blood Work

Monitoring day 3 -

My first worry was what my blood pressure and what it was going to be today. To my surprise, it was lower than I had expected. We were at 126/72. Woohoo.

Monitoring went fine. Jack was active at first, then settled down, and my ultrasound showed lots of fluid. 1 hour later I was shipped up to my doctors appointment with Dr. Linsey.

36 week appointment -

Today my paperwork for disability was turned in so we should be set for getting paid by the state while I am out on maternity leave.

I was quickly taken to the back room and they completed my vitals.

Again another worry about my blood pressure came up b/c this time they do a manual read instead of an electric. I was curious to see what this reading was. To my surprise it was up again. Now we're at 132/80 something. I explained my concern over the difference in numbers and the nurse said to bring in my cuff next week and make sure to change the batteries before bringing it b/c when the batteries are at all low they start reading wrong.

Next came the urine test. Last visit I was showing protein. The nurse tested the urine and she said it was showing "borderline" on this visit. Not a good sign.

Ug, was there any bit of good news today?

Dr. L came in and we started our chat. The first item on the list was the blood pressure. He noticed that it was creeping up and suggested that I lay on my left or right side for a few hour in the morning and at night to help with the levels. I questioned when a true concern would result in an induction. Doc said that he would be concerned when I would routinely get readings 140/90.

Next the doc put me back on the table and took a measurement. This weeks results were 38.5 on the belly. Again, big. I then questioned at what point would would they induce for size. Dr. Linsey then questioned my height and I advised 5 foot 7 inches. He said that he has a patient on Thursday that will be have a csection as she's my height and had an ultrasound which showed a size of an 11lb baby. Dr Linsey seemed very concerned about this part as he said he didn't want Jack to be too big, deliver a head and then not be able to get the shoulders out. I questioned what he thought Jacks size was based upon feel. Doc said he felt about 9lbs already. That sounded about right if our 3d ultrasound a few weeks ago said that Jack was already at 7lbs.

The doc then ordered an ultrasound and some lab work for possible hypertension (b/c of the rise in the BP and my proteins). I will have the ultrasound Thursday and lab work results will be in tomorrow.

The doc will see me on Monday again but we have a very likely feeling that based upon the results of my ultrasound and blood work that I'll be induced next week for the size that Jack might be.

Only time will tell what is going on. All I can say is that I'm ready for this road to be over and for Jack to be here as his daddy is growing increasingly impatient as well as his mommy :)

Fetal Monitoring and A Scare With The Blood Pressure

Day 1 -

My first day of fetal monitoring started on Tuesday March 9th. I arrived, checked in and was taken back to a chair with a set up next to me that consisted of a monitor and a computer. During this time they explained what they would be doing a blood pressure check, hooking up a monitor for the fetal heartbeat as well as contractions. As soon as the nurse was done with her evaluation it was time for me to sit back and relax for 30 minutes. I preceded to get out my bag and clip coupons. About 1/2 way through the nurse came in to inform me that she wanted to wake up the baby more for a better fetal tracing so she suggested that I sip on some ice cold water and then she would check on me again.

Upon the completion of my 30 minutes, she informed me that the water did the trick and he woke up and gave a good reading. She also explained that I had at least 1 pretty good contraction that the doctor would be taking a look at to see if his heartbeat was ok during the time I was contracting and if they thought it was fishy they would call me back the next day to re-test.

With that said, the nurse stated that today they would also be doing an ultrasound to check the fluid levels around the baby. All was fine. This is done once a week.

All in all my first day was very pleasant and peaceful. I was looking forward to my second day on Friday.

2nd Day of Testing -

Today also happened to be my last day at Mercury, aka WORK! Woohoo...with the pressure of not having to return to work, I was looking forward to heading out, completing my monitoring, and then heading home for a peaceful night with Sean. That didn't quite go as planned.

I was situated this time on a comfortable hospital bed (and when I say comfortable, I really mean it - I got sucked in and couldn't get out). They took my blood pressure which was step one, and quickly found out it was 139/82. The nurse had a look of concern on her face and asked if I had been running around. I explained that I just came in and sat down, didn't take any stairs but rather the elevator. She still had a worried look on her face and said that she would be taking it again for a re-check. She also questioned if I was having blurred vision, or headaches. I let her know that yesterday I randomly was seeing spots for a short amount of time and was really swollen. She then went on to question about headaches. I let her know that I was having sinus headaches but I felt those were from my allergies. She checked my swelling today on my feet and said that I looked pretty mild still.

She finished hooking me up with the monitors and I got comfortable with my crochet bag in hopes of calming down my blood pressure, taking some deep breaths, and trying not to worry.

About 15 minutes in the nurse returned and said well lets recheck your BP. I was still sitting up, and was tested on the same arm and this time I was at 132/89. I quickly questioned what was considered high in pregnancy. The nurse explained that 140/90 is worry territory. Reminder, I have been 110/70 or 120/80 routinely throughout pregnancy. She said I was in the clear still since neither were over but they were borderline.

She also asked if I had been drinking my water so as to wake the baby up. I advised that I just finished a bottle of water and the nurse advised that she would be getting the buzzer and returning to buzz Jack and see if he wakes up. She returned a minute later and I quickly questioned if this was going to hurt. The nurse stated that it was just a vibrator with a noise attached. She tested it on my leg so as to show me it didn't hurt. It felt exactly like a vibration with a noise of clipping sheers. She gave two buzzes in two locations to my belly and immedialy Jack gave some quick and startled movement almost like he was going to explode out of my belly. I quickly questioned why is it that they react that way. The nurse explained that it's like turning the radio on and being startled. ***After I told Sean this story he pointed out that our son is able to feel and/or hear and that was all a good sign. I didn't realize that at the time but was more startled at how he reacted.

So at the completion of testing the nurse wanted to try a different technique on me to read my BP to see if that had any other reading. She reclined the hospital bed flat, told me to lay on my left side and would testing my right arm. Just a few short minutes later, she retested and was very happy with my results. It was 114/?. I totally didn't catch the bottom number b/c I was more relieved that it was more normal. I questioned why it would give such a different reading and she stated that it's much better circulation the way she had me. Hey whatever works I'm ok with.

I also questioned how many contractions I was having during that time as I knew that all day they hadn't stopped. The nurse informed me about 15 during the time that I was there but they were not consistent and re-questioned me to find out if they were painful. I let her know no.

So as I was leaving I heard my doctor in the testing facility. I questioned what he was going there and the nurse informed me that he was the doctor on call tonight to read the readings. (I sound like I ask a million questions, but I'm glad I do. It puts my mind at more ease and helps me to understand what is going on and I can better translate that to Sean when he's unable to attend the appointments). So Dr. L gave a quick glance over and said "So when are you off work?" I let him know that today was my last day. He then questioned when he would be seeing me next and I told him Monday and he said to have a good weekend, rest up, and that he would see me on Monday and we would talk.

He gave me the ok to head home but I'm sure we'll be having some conversations about a few things on Monday. With that said I walked out of the office, gave Sean a quick call at work and said that I would be unable to attend a friends party for his last day at work which I really wanted to go to, but my feet had really swelled up, and I was ordered to go home and rest.

Just as the doctor ordered, I stopped to get a pedicure, get my feet massaged, and headed home for some TLC.

Day 3 is tomorrow (03/15/2010) along with a doctors appointment and I'm sure there will be plenty to talk about. Updates should be frequent at this point as there is a lot going on and I don't want to forget it all :)

8.75 Month Check up - Long Update

Today marks the first of my weekly appointments. I'm in my last week of work and thank goodness. You'll see why, but my schedule is getting very tight.

I was a bit early so I called to see if I could come in early. To my surprise, they welcomed me with open arms. It made up for my visit 2 weeks ago where I waited 2 hours on a holiday that I didn't know about with AC that couldn't keep up with a very full waiting room.

So I headed back and provided my urine sample, then was taken back for my weight, blood pressure, and other items that might be pertinent for that weeks visit. This week they were doing a test for Group B streptococcus bacteria so they were asking a few questions if I was allergic to any medication that they might need to put me on if the test comes back positive.

The nurse then took my urine sample to the back and tested it. I inquired what it came back with. The nurse stated that I was positive again for proteins. I was bummed because 2 weeks ago I was also positive.

I questioned what was going on and what I could do. The nurse questioned how much water I was taking in (as I sat there with my diet coke and large glass of ice). I said well I'm drinking tons of fluid but I'm not sure what percentage of it is actual water. The nurse stated it NEEDS to be (8) 8 oz. of water a day min. I was bummed because that would mean less salt, less soda, and more water....no flavor. :( I agreed b/c there was only 4 more or so weeks left.

Next the nurse brought me a few gifts. One was a eco looking grocery bag with lots of goodies from Enfamil (formula company) which included a can of powder formula, the bag, and a cooler with an ice pack for formula/breast milk storage with some samples from Huggies (diapers). The next gift was from Similac (another formula company). The gift here was a hanging travel bathroom caddy (or what it seemed) with 4 infant bottles with pre-made formula and nipples in wrappers and of course coupons coupons coupons for lots of other companies.

So once I arrived back in the exam room I was asked to undress from the waist down so my test could be performed. The doc came in and updated me on everything going on.

PS - Vitals
Urine = see above
Weight = on track
BP = 120/80 (normal)

1st item of business, any changes? I told the doc about my conversation with the nurse about water vs other fluids. Doc agreed to take in more water. He then went on to listen to the heart beat of Jack which was 145 (normal) and then did a measurement. When he said 37 I about jumped. I said doc, that is HUGE! I'm only 35 weeks. He didn't seem concerned because remember normal is plus or minus 2 of your actual weeks so I was still in the safe zone. He jokingly said well maybe he (Jack) is just stretched out or I measured wrong. I think it's the 1st one, considering how many times the doc has measured millions of woman I highly doubt he'd measure wrong :)

Next we discussed iron. Doc said that my early iron scores were slightly above normal at the beginning of my pregnancy and my last test at 28 weeks was at 12.something which was just at normal. Doc said that I should be taking an iron sup to just add a little iron to my diet. I wasn't thrilled but agreed b/c again it would be only 4 or so weeks. The only reason why I was hesitant is b/c it can be harsh on your tummy.

Metformin...my diabetic medication. I had just refilled the bottle yesterday and noticed that a sticker on the side said "don't use while breastfeeding." I made sure to ask if in fact I did need to use it after pregnancy could I. Doc said yes, but said it would be highly unlikely that I would. Hallelujah!!!

Which leads me into my next thing. Doc wants me doing non-stress tests 2x a week until I deliver to monitor the babies heartbeat, and fluid levels all due to the diabetes. He just wants to make sure the placenta is working at it's full capacity. So starting tomorrow at 3:30pm (during my last week of work) I've got to head down to Orange and complete my non stress tests.

For those of you who don't know what a non stress test entails, it's basically forced alone time to yourself for 1 hour each visit :) This is how our childbirth class teacher explained it. They sit you down in a chair/table strap you up to monitors around your belly and just watch the strip of paper mark down the heartbeat and any contractions that you might have for 30 minutes. From what I'm also reading is that they will be doing an ultrasound to check fluid levels to make sure the monster doesn't get TOO big.

So, tomorrow I go in early to work and leave early for the 1st of my testing. Thank goodness this is my last week of work b/c I'm going to have to continue doing this all throughout my leave. I actually don't object, it's just the work along with doctors visits all the time that are going to get old this week. Thank goodness for an awesome work who is understanding.

I'm trying to hold strong. Maybe just maybe our Jack will come early and everything will come to a close sooner than April 9th ;)

35 Weeks and Time To Reflect

So we have 1 more week until 9 month officially happens. Things are starting to wrap up so I thought I would do a bit of reflection while it's quiet around the house.

Last night as I was getting ready for bed I thought to myself something that I would NEVER think would happen. The past 1-2 months I have been in such pain in my lower extremities that I just dreaded the time I was being pregnant. I couldn't wait to Jack to be out and me to be pain free.

Well over the course of the past two weeks he has dropped, and I'm able to be a little more comfortable sitting up, breath easier and last but not least, last night was the first time I could really walk with comfort, without shooting pains, without a facial expression that I wanted to die, without making noises every time I moved. I believe that once he dropped he took pressure off the parts that we in such pain and I'm VERY VERY THANKFUL! So now, I can actually be somewhat normal again. Granted I'm still healing so I have a little bit of tenderness but it's 95% better than it was. Ahhh.....I told Sean I was so excited that my pains were going away and he said he could tell. I had so much more energy, and I've actually started walking again and additionally am planning to do a 5k and Sena a 10k in the fall for exercise motivation.

So with that said and the background given as to my next statement, I can't believe that things are slowly coming to an end. I thought I would never be saying that. I actually thought "Wow things are going to get a little crazy here in the next few weeks, and are no longer going to pindrop quiet, and our lives are forever going to be changed." Kind of crazy!

Yesterday additionally Sean and I were reflecting upon our relationship (he's going to be 28 this week) and I commented that "Wow, I've known you since you were 18." Sean comes back with "We've met, dated, got married, purchased a house, and now have a baby just around the corner all in 10 years." It's all pretty amazing if you think about it in that terms.

What else have I been thinking about...Well the time spent in this pregnancy overall seems to have just flown by. I can't believe that we have been through everything and now in just a few short days/weeks out little man will be here for all to enjoy and see what he actually looks, like, smells like and feels like. Everything is in place for his arrival and now it's just a waiting period.

Well, just a few more pregnancy blog updates and then we'll be posting photos of our Jack for all to see. Until then, take care!

Monster Jack - 3D Ultrasound Day

Tonight after work we had a scheduled ultrasound at another ultrasound school and for $20 they would provide us with photos of baby Jack in 3D.

I rushed home, prepared dinner really quick, and packed our taco dinner up for a picnic in the car. I then picked up Master Sean from and we headed down to the school. Traffic was nice to us and since it was on the later side (6pm) we missed the brunt of the traffic and made it with plenty of time.

Upon our arrival we checked in and paid our $20 and were handed a blank CD and were instructed to head down the hall to the lab. When arriving to the lab, we found the lights dim, some white boards, and 6 ulltrasound machines with student on the table and students at the machine. They were learning using each other as test dumbies.

After a few short minutes of waiting we were asked to come back and get prepared. I got up onto the table (not so easy anymore btw....so painful b/c of my pain condition in my thighs/crotch) but I made it and got ready for them.

There were about 4 students watching and learning and they started to complete the measurements.

1st on the menu:
Head size

Then we moved onto the following:
abdomen
spine
femur
brain
genitals (Funny story here...the teacher helping out said "big balls" in her Romanian accent...they were quite prominent on the screen. Big Circles...) Sorry Jack...yes we're talking about you. Don't kill us.)

And then the fun stuff....trying to locate the face, hands and toes. After they found the face the students and teacher couldn't stop saying "he looks so upset, he looks so upset." When we finally were able to see a good photo of his face...yup they were correct. He has his daddies scrunched face... basically a pissed off face. Jacks hands were blocking most of his face so we were not able to get a perfect shot but we got some pretty good ones. (photos to go up later when I get to the scanner).

The advanced students spent a lot of time with us 35-40 minutes searching for things and working with our very large Jack who was very low already.

After the ultrasound we were handed a stack of photos, probably about 20 and a CD with the ultrasound that they just completed. I'll have to see if I can upload to youtube.com or to this site the video.

I then asked before we left how big he was measuring b/c I kept hearing the numbers 37 weeks being thrown around. They said that the computer based upon the measurements was saying Jack was at 37 week measurements and 7lbs. I know that these are not at all accurate but if they were, I'm in some serious trouble (I'm 34 weeks tomorrow) and that would explain all the contractions and pain I'm having. :) The little man ain't so little anymore...maybe :)

8 1/2 Month Check Up

This weekend was quite eventful. Two showers and then putting all of the items away. I think little Jack was telling me to slow down b/c my body would not stop with the braxton hicks from about 5pm on Saturday.

I started getting a little worried when I was at work today and they were consistant at about 4-5 minutes lasting 1-2 minutes. No pain, no bleeding, no cramping, but me never having had a child before I wasn't 100% positive that this was for sure contractions.

Today ironically I had a 8 1/2 month check up with my OB so I got concerned and called the doctors office explained my situation (I was really only concerned b/c I was 33 weeks and I didn't want it to turn into full blown labor) and they said to come on in early and they will see what they can do.

I headed out of work an hour early b/c I was majorly caught up, and got to the office only to discover that the ENTIRE waiting room was FILLED! Every seat, AC not working very hard, kids running around, and the front desk overflowing with people. I started to wonder what the heck they brought me in early for.

Come to find out the ultrasound tech was in today so 1/2 the people were for ultrasounds but I waited for 1.75 hours and then I was finally seen by Dr. Linsey.

Thank goodness I wasn't testy or I would have lost it a few times. I just sat in my chair and closed my eyes and caught some Z's.

4:45pm rolled around (45 minutes after my regularly scheduled appt time) I was called back and finally seen. PS - I think they were just bombed b/c today was a holiday, but not for this lady.

So here are the stats:
BP = 120/68 (a little higher on the first one than normal, and lower and on the second one)
Measurement = 33.5 (remember plus or minus the amount of weeks you are by 2 is normal) So we're right on target once again.
Jack Heartbeat = 145
***Urine = positive

The reason why I starred urine is b/c this will come into play when I talk about the discussion I had with Dr Linsey about the contractions.

I explained that I had been having them very consistently and no letting up, no pain, but I was curious if A) they were braxton hicks and B) if there was any harm is having so many.

Doc stated that yes they were braxton as he was feeling them as I was having them in the office, and he re-assured me that no, there is no downside for having so many.

He did advise that I was dehydrated and to go home and drink up and rest and that should help. I quickly questioned what having to hydrate would do with contractions. He stated that your uterus is a muscle and when it doesn't get enough water it will cramp up which is exactly what it's doing. I explained to him that I felt that I was drinking water by the gallons and peeing it just as fast. He then said, well your urine test says otherwise and came back positive for proteins.

So with that said, everything else was fine, I have another appt in 2 weeks and a culture set for next visit for "beta strep" and then at that point we're at weekly appointments. Eek....it's creeping up so fast!

Work and Family Shower

Friday 2/19/2010 my work held me a shower in which we played a few games (guess the baby food, and unscramble the baby babble words). I was then presented with cake and gifts. It was a very nice touch from my co-workers that I've been with for some time now.

Saturday 02/20/2010 rolled around and my mother in law Gail and Grandma in law Arlene Steichen (aka Grandma to me) have been working day and night on planning the perfect family shower. And might I say they did a FANTASTIC job. We used all family crystal and silverware (from the Steichen, Streit, Nunn and Plunkett families), and rented out the clubhouse that belongs to us with our HOA. The food was brought in by "Stefanos" (croissant turkey, ham, and beef sandwiches, orzo salad, broccoli salad, fruit, punch, water, coffee, and for dessert we had finger brownies, lemon bars, sugar cookies chocolate dipped strawberries, and favors were made my myself that were rice crispy treats on a stick). Lets just say I had a double helping of everything and some was a three. It was all sooooooooo good! I was stuffed afterward but that didn't stop me from bringing some of it home for dinner. :)

After we all ate we settled into gift time. Grandma brought her white rocker with blue chair pads which fit in PERFECT! I nestled into the seat which was very comfortable for the very full prego and found that I have some amazing family who prepared us VERY well with Jack items. We are not lacking in any department now for when Jack arrives. He is one very lucky boy.

After gifts it was social time before some people had to leave and it was nice to catch up with everyone. I already miss them all and wish we had more time together. It just reminds me that I've gotta make the rounds to keep up with everyone more so we can all stay connected.

Just so I don't forget for later here is a list of the people who were in attendance:

Alexis Plunkett
Gail Plunkett
Arlene Steichen
Susan Sutherlin
Emily Watkins
Geri Watkins
Heather Robinson
Cristi Steichen
Marlene Smock
Janet Barrera
Rachel Weidemann
Adrienne Weidemann
Diane Brown
Carol Willoughby (sp?)
Kathy Redd
Debbie Barrett
Jean Toole
Donna Benson
Liana Gabler

Once the shower was over we helped clean up and I was sent home to unload and unpack. Mom helped me move the items from the car to the house since Sean was on a Motorgen.com cruise (which was his best one yet - 60 cars and no issues) and we started putting stuff away. Then our little puppy Abby had a doctors appointment at the vet for a leg issue and during this time, mom and I were discovering that I was having a lot of braxton hicks contractions. I think I might have over done it, or Jack is just telling me he's getting ready for his arrival soon. :P So the rest of the night I tried to relax and take it easy. But overall it was a fantastic day/weekend and we can't wait to meet our son Jack.

Here are a few photos from Saturday: Whoops, ok they uploaded at the top. So see the top.

Just Some More Photos

I finally got some shelves hung in Jacks room. They are not finished being decorated but this is just a start.












Jacks wall hanging that I've finished. It turned out so stink'n cute. It was really easy and I'd do it again in a heart beat for a gift or order.

***Don't mind the wall patch I'm working on to the right (something we had to do while putting a new electrical line in for the ceiling fan) as well as the printer in the crib. We're still in transition from and "office" to the babies room.





I got the cross stitch hung so Sean's Gram will be watching over little Jack when he's sleeping.














My newest creation that I'm just in love with! These are booties that my mom actually found the pattern to at a quilt show we attended just a few weeks ago. I haven't been able to stop making them. Jack will have quite the selection but I'm up and open for making them for people for orders and gifts. I've gotta work on a few girly ones but so far I have gender neutral and boy.




Yesterday we test ran the motorgen.com cruise route for next week which was "Glendora Mountain Road." It happened to have some snow still on the his road so we stopped for a photo op.

I have perfected the timed shutter on our Yellowstone trip so I thought I would give it another try yesterday.

I set up the camera on the car with a blanket and set the timer. Lol, it gave me 10 seconds to get from point A to point B. I had quite the laugh once I got to point B b/c I was like a rolling snowball that you couldn't stop. With all that extra momentum and weight I couldn't put on my brakes fast enough. Sean saw the look on my face and put out his arms and caught me. That is why I look so funny, but hey the picture turned out semi decent for me just pressing a button :)

This is the only picture I have actually sat back and said "this one will go in the baby book". All my other pregnancy pictures I haven't brought myself to like. So I made sure to get all "pretty" (meaning hair and makeup) and put on something flattering. When we got to a pretty lookout, I made Sean take a photo to see how it would turn out.

I do have to say he did a very nice job. I am quite pleased with this photo and this one is a keeper. :)

***PS - I'm 8 months prego here *** Only 7 more weeks to go.

8 Months and Plug'n Along

Friday 02/12 officially marks the 8 month mark but today we had our 8 month check up. I told Sean he better come with me as I have a million questions and I'm bound to forget something in translation. He took the day off, chilled with the dog, and then I picked him up for our afternoon at the doctors office.

4:30pm rolled around and we made it right on time. They greeted us and swiftly took us straight on back.

Vitals
BP - 110/70 - same exact thing as it has been for months now - I guess I'm a regular :)
Weight - we won't mention what that was but we're doing fine

Next stop, exam room #1.
After the nurse made sure to check my urine for proteins (which came out fine by the way) Dr. Linsey quickly made his entrance without any delay.

With my list of questions in hand he quickly questioned how things were going and if anything was a concern or a problem since our last visit. I told him everything seemed fine but then the brain started thinking...oh yeah I have some issues I wanted to talk to him about.

1st issue - Pain in the pubic bone area making it sometimes very difficult to walk. He then questioned if I did a lot of standing on my feet. I told him nope, I sit at my desk all day. Basically it came down to suck it up and lay down when needed and limit your walking. Just as I thought. Bummer :( Only a few more months I have to keep telling myself and I'll start on my road to recovery.

2nd issue - Diabetes. As some of you might know I've been monitored since about 12 weeks for gestational diabetes because I refused to take another test when the 2nd test/drink would not go down. I have been perfectly fine score wise up until about week 30. Around week 30 my scores were creeping up, and fast. My fasting scores were now above normal as well as my after meal scores. I knew something was up when my very strict diet wasn't doing the trick. With a phone call to my diabetic counselor and discussing my options, it was finally decided between my OB, Dr. Linsey and my counselor to try some medication to see if that would help since it was clearly going up, and I was stressing out.

With one more attempt to give the diet one more try I gave it a whirl but it was not doing the trick. My scores were still very high for me. So I caved and picked up my RX at the pharmacy and started meds the next day.

The counselor advised that it could potentially be hard on a tummy causing pain and digestion issues and would take about 2-3 days to get the full effect of the medication.

In just a few days I was starting to notice a difference and was VERY pleased with the outcome. My fasting scores were back to normal, and my after meal scores were normal as long as I didn't go hog wild with the carbs and sugars.

***Note: What basically happens as I've been told, is that during pregnancy the placenta makes hormones. At some point my placentas hormones started getting too high and started to attack my insulin which helps to rid the body of it's sugar and excess sugars go to the baby and can cause excessive weight to the baby, and other complications. With a natural delivery being what I'm shooting for, this was a cause for concern.

So going back to my conversation with Dr. Linsey, Sean asked the Dr. that once Jack is here what are the chances that this would not go away or medication and monitoring would be necessary. Dr Linsey stated that once the placenta was removed the likelyhood of having an issue was little to none. However they would continue to monitor the fasting and after meal scores a few times a week for 2 weeks to make sure, and then call it a day.

He also advised that after a few months he would send me in for a mini glucose test to make sure I back on track (yup that means a small sugar drink) and then about once a year they would send me in for a fasting blood score to make sure I am not truly a "diabetic." Dr. Linsey stated that about 50% of gestational diabetics go on to become normal diabetics to that is why they go on to monitor so closely.

3rd Issue: Circumcision for Mr. Jack. Yup we had a few questions about that. We wanted to confirm that it would be either Dr. Linsey or Dr. Zepata doing the procedure and he confirmed that yes he would 24 hours after birth. I also had a quick question about care of the wound and bath time. He assured me that I would be sent home with paperwork to remind me of all that information but basically says that sponge baths are what we're going to be doing until the wound heals and the cord falls off.

4th Issue: Anxiety - As most of you know I have suffered for years with Anxiety and with the stress of having a child, delivery, and time at home with Jack I wanted to be prepared that should something medication wise be needed in order to help out, we would be ok to take that while nursing. Doc gave me the A-ok and said to give him a call should things need to be prescribed.

We also touched on post partum depression and Sean inquired about some of the warning signs to look out for should I not be able to detect them or become overwhelmed as it seems likely that with a history of anxiety it would be more likely that it would creep up on me more than someone who doesn't have a history. I felt more comfortable getting that out in the open with Dr. Linsey after we discussed it. He was very comforting and said it's very normal. Thank goodness for a doctor who has been around for so long and has seen everything.

5th Issue - Disability paperwork - I've been working on this all week with my work trying to get things squared away before I go out in 3 week (eek 3 weeks). There is so much to know, and do, and time lines to have this set of paperwork in and this other set of paperwork over there. It's VERY hard to keep things straight when you have a prego brain so I'm trying my best to keep things in order. Fingers crossed nothing gets forgotten or delayed. But I had to ask a few questions about when things needed to be turned in and obtain the state disability forms so I can turn those in when my next appt.

6th Issue - Fluid level - with the concern brought up on our last appt, I wanted to make sure that the concern was addressed. Dr. Linsey started feeling around and says that I'm just fine and Jacks levels feel great b/c he can feel all the parts of his body.

He also confirmed that he is still head down, body is on the left side of my body and his feet and such are on my right side (just where I feel them ALL THE TIME).

I almost forgot about the fun stuff :)

During this time the doc checked my size and Jacks heartbeat.

Size = 32 (remember normal is plus or minus 2 either way of the weeks that you are - I'm exactly 32 on friday so he's measuring just on target)
Heartbeat = 155 bpm - nice and healthy

I think that is it for this visit. Sorry for all the info but this is for my knowledge as well as anyone else who wants to read about it. :) Until next time...

Sean the Comedian

So, this week a new side of Sean decided to show his true colors...as a comedian! Who would have ever thought. He has been keeping me fully entertained with his word and cracking me up to the point when I have tears streaming down my face and a huge belly ache each and every time. All have been related to baby Jack and pregnancy.

I thought I would share with you a few stories in which Sean has made me laugh this week.

Story #1:

Childbirth Class - So during our last and final class they were preparing us with some final videos of what childbirth is all about. At some point I looked over at Sean (during the lovely "everything" shot") and he says "I think I'm going to need and epidural!" Silly boy isn't even doing any of the hard work. :)

Story #2

Belly Shape - About 2 days ago Sean and I were preparing to settle into bed and I was on my side, my normal position. Sean wanted to see what Jack was up to and see if he could feel anything. He pulls up my shirt and starts to examine the belly. He says to me with a straight face, "Why is it that your belly is like a Torpedo?" I about died. Thank god I thought it was funny b/c I think any other prego woman would be mad but I thought it was funny. Sean then follows it up with "ya know, why are you are front and not so much round?" I do have to admit..I am alllll front right now.

Story #3

Belly Button - So just a few moments after the whole torpedo thing happened, Sean starts to look around and says "Hey you don't have any stretch marks yet." I agreed but I let him know that I had the center line that went from the top of the belly to the bottom. I started to turn over to my back to show him the line when Sean notices that my belly button has taken on a new shape. Sean about jumps out of bed say "WHOA!!! You've gotta warn me about that thing! My head was close to that!" He was in total shock of it's new transformation. Yes it's true it has flattened out but the way Mr Sean reacted was PRICELESS.

Story #4

Party at my crib, Midnight - That same night that all of this was going on, torpedo, and belly button, my lovely husband has informed me (the next morning) that he placed his hand on my belly while I was sleeping to see if Jack was up to anything.

To my surprise, Sean informed me that not only was he moving but he was having his own party without us once again. Sean couldn't understand how I was sleeping through this. He said during the 5 minutes that he was feeling him it was the most he had ever felt him during the whole 7 months.

I was in total shock. I just assumed that his most active times were just before bed and then he would calm down when I would fall asleep, and then his next active time was up to 1 hour after I woke up. I never thought he was moving while I was sleeping. I could only count on 1 hand the times that I would feel him wake me up during the night, so I was totally taken back.

I guess it's true what our class informed us of. They let us know that it would take about 2 months to re-adjust a baby from it's nights schedule to a day schedule. I thought that we might have been one of the lucky ones that has a child from birth that was sleeping at night b/c I never felt him during the middle of the night. I guess I stand corrected now. :) Our little Jack is textbook.

***The reason for the day/night switch up is because during the day we rock the baby to sleep with our normal activity, and during the night time it's nice and calm, so that is when they wake up and play.

I am sure there are many many stories to take place over the next few months but these are the few that I can remember right now.

Sean is so anxious to meet his Jack. He is going to be a wonderful father. Seeing him already so attached to his little man just amazes me each and every day. It's a side that I have never seen before. I knew he loved kids and has always wanted them, but to really watch it in action is truly amazing.

Sean came to a revelation this week after we finished our childbirth class this week that the reason why he might find these class' boring is because everything in between now and the time that Jack gets here is just fluff. It's just time that he has to wait for him to get here. He just wants him here now.

7 Month Check Up

Tomorrow marks 7 months. Woohoo!

Today I invited my mom to join me for a day of doctors appointments and girl time. Sean was not able to attend so I thought this would be a nice time for my mom to join me.

Our day started off at a quilt show that was in town and we buzzed around the show and found lots of cute stuff. One fun thing we found was a pattern to make childrens booties out of scrap fabric. Mom and I both can't wait to get that pattern started and made some cute gifts for others and a few for Jack.

12pm arrived and it was time for our ultrasound. This ultrasound was a recommendation of Seans cousin who actually attends the ultrasound school we were at, and said that we should come down and be a test person for the students who were learning. She informed us that there was no charge and we would get lots of photos.

So after looking at the calendar I picked a day that would be a good distance from our last ultrasound (which was 8 weeks ago) but before our delivery day. I was ever so curious what our Jack was looking like these days and how much he has grown since our last appointment.

Mom and I arrive, we get checked in and they bring me back. At first they just bring me back and tell mom and Heather to wait until they are done doing the measurements (aka - learning).

The students put me on the table and were slowly evaluating and finding out what parts of the baby were what. They completed measurements on the circumference of his head, belly, and femur to determine the size he would be approximated at. With a little click here and click there, they evaluated Jack to be at 3lbs 2oz with an estimated due date of March 27 (almost 2 weeks prior to his original due date) and a heart beat of 145. He's just what we thought...a large little boy :) Or so the computer says.

After that 30 minute appointment, we headed to lunch with cousin Heather and then got back on the road for my OB appointment in Orange, CA.

2:15pm arrived and it was our turn to visit Dr. Linsey. We originally were moved up in time b/c the doc had an emergency c-section so when we got to the office we didn't know if we would be seeing the doc or a nurse practitioner.

Just as we were finishing up my vitals we hear the man of the hour pop into the office. He arrived just in time.

Backround: My doctor is the same doctor that delivered my brother 25 years ago and whom my mom still sees for her visits. So he's a man that is very near and dear to our family.

Vitals were normal today. BP = 110/80, weight=on track, urine=normal, baby heartbeat = 160, and uterus measurements=28.5 (should be at plus or minus 28 by 2 in either direction).

When I was on the table the doc was looking at my chart and reviewing last months ultrasound and found that I had excess amniotic fluid. He said that I shouldn't be concerned as it is only a concern in about 15-20% of pregnancies. He said that most likely he will order another scan (ultrasound) next appt to recheck for my fluid levels.

With such a concern that he brought up, I made sure to ask my questions. I made sure to find out what the risks were if in fact the baby had excess fluid still at our next appt. Doc said that if the baby still has excess fluid they would order another intensive scan to check for the babies systems to make sure that they were all working properly.

They would be looking to see if his esophagus, kidneys and other such processing organs were being overactive, thus causing the excess fluid. He said we should not be concerned at this time but it would be something that he would look into next visit.

My next question was when would they start to look and see if Jack was going to be "large." Doc advised that they would look at all the factors at about 34 weeks by taking the normal uterine measurements and taking a feel and if need be looking at it through an ultrasound. I just don't want Jack to get too big and then be forced into a c-section. So I want to keep a watchful eye on this topic.

We also spoke to the nurses about alternate people for being a pediatrician. The original rec we got from their office was not something that "went well." I feel much about the new people that we were given names of. My mission this week is to give them a call and start to ask questions.

I also inquired about when I could take my disability time off prior to the baby. The doc gave the ok for 4 weeks prior to my due date. (I can't wait!)

What else what else...oh yes blood work and shots. This appointment was time for some blood work. I didn't know it was coming so I was a bit taken back. I guess this would also be the same time they would order a glucose test but I let them know that I was under the advisement of a diabetic counseling center so I got to avoid that test. Woohoo! No glucose. I did however have to have my blood counts tested (white and red) as well as my antibodies. The blood count was to make sure I wasn't anemic. The antibody test was to check and see if my antibodies were attacking the babies blood. Since Sean and I are not compatible in our blood types, my blood and the babies blood potentially could interact at birth and attach each other.

So after my blood work just two floors down, I came back to the office and got my 28 week shot. This shot was for "Rhogam." This shot it to help prevent the mixing of my blood with the babies. This is a 3 series shot. One at the start, one 1/2 way through, and 1 at birth. So yup, you guessed it. I got the shot in my rear. I had been dreading it b/c the last one hurt pretty bad but this one went very well. Not even a sting.

So with that said I think that is it for my 7 month check up. More to come next month. After next month I start twice monthly appts then weekly. It's getting closer!

Aches and Pain, Butt or a Head

This weeks marks 6.75 months going on 7 months. Today marks the first day of misery.

In the past week, you would think that I would have learned by now to eat my meals at 1/2 the size and 1/2 the speed. Nope! I still am doing it just the way I have before I got prego. It's proving to be VERY uncomfortable. A normal size meal, just sits at the top of my stomach for a good 2 hours before I start to feel somewhat comfortable again. When they say things slow down digestion wise, you better listen b/c they are CORRECT. If I don't obey that rule, it feels like I've eaten 3 thanksgiving day meals in one sitting. I tell you IT HURTS! Today was day one where I really truly listened and ate about 6-7 small meals all throughout the day. No pain today. Good job Alexis.

As for the aches and pains, throughout the night rolling over continuously was proving to be much more painful than normal. Last night marked the first night where it wasn't just uncomfortable but has now included shooting pains. Then came time for the 7am alarm clock to chime it's pretty little self to remind me to get out of bed and wake up for work, and I almost yelled to Sean to turn it off b/c it was going to be a few seconds before I could get to it.

Getting out of bed was again much more difficult than what I'm normally used to. Getting all that extra weight to shuffle around, and a growing Jack who has stretched out during the night now much all be shoved back into place, I just wanted to crawl to the alarm clock. Finally I mustered up enough strength to get to the alarm clock and turn it off. What a challenge I tell ya.

Also in the past two days I have discovered this new "mass" that I can't figure out what body part of Jack it belongs to. It's generally roaming round my belly button or just above, on my right side. Certain times of the day I swear I can just lay my finger on the belly and draw you a picture of what I'm feeling, other times, it's a little harder but it hasn't moved in several days now. I'm ever so curious if it's his little behind or his head....only time will tell in our fun ultrasound this coming Thursday. I'm thinking butt, but Sean has his bet on head. :)

The Old Man Has Settled In

So Friday while at work, I'm not too sure how it came up in conversation but while on a break talking with Sean, he informed me that I have developed some new habits during my pregnancy.

He quickly questioned if I realized what I did last night. I said no. He stated that during the night I was snoring very loudly and on several occasions he tried to nudge me to get me to roll over and at one point I woke up and said "No it's not me it's the dog" then rolled back over and promptly fell back asleep.

At this point Sean has decided to inform me that this is not the first time I have been doing this. Over the course of the past few months, I have picked up a snoring habit in which has gotten very bad this week due to a cold that was effecting my ability to take in air as well as talking in my sleep.

By now, I'm cracking up and tears are flowing so bad I can barely get in a word to ask any follow up questions. I had absolutely no clue that this was going on. When I was child I had my tonsils and adenoids removed and ever since I have never picked up snoring again. I thought that I might just be breathing pretty hard because on occasion I have woken myself up with a loud roar. I guess my loud roar was just the end of my old man snore.

So after being informed and pretty much crying through the conversation b/c I was so horrified that I now snore and talk in my sleep, but found it hilarious, I have learned to accept it.

I do have to say that I'm very embarrassed but there isn't much I can do at this point to fix it except deliver the baby and lose the baby weight. Only 2.5 more months.

FOLLOW UP: So the brilliant idea came to mind this weekend that maybe a breath right strip might help open up my nasal passages and help to lessen my snoring. So last night (Sunday night) was the first night that I was able to use them. I washed my face, and placed the strip on correctly and then crawled into bed. Not once did I wake up with a loud roar. So I was curious to find out if they worked.

When arriving home I asked Sean what happened last night. He says "I didn't want to tell you b/c you were trying so hard, but you didn't snore last night but you have now developed a new thing. Lets just call it the "santa ana winds." You keep your mouth open and have this very high whistle which makes it sound like the winds have come to town." By now I'm totally crying again with laughter.

I don't know what this new laughter thing is all about but I just kinda go off and I can't stop, and lordy lordy, I think the hormones have quite definatly kicked in b/c I could cry for quite some time when I'm laughing this hard.

Hehe, I better not develop anything else in the coming weeks b/c I'm not sure not sure how much more lack of sleep Sean can handle while trying to keep it together. I know it's all supposed to prepare us for when Jack arrives, but I plan on being the sleep deprived person while nursing, so I need atleast one sane person in the house to keep me together.

We shall see what happens.

Mommy Has Been Busy

So with recent studies, SIDS is a huge risk in the crib. Upon further investigation, that also means that nothing should be in the crib with a child including a crib bumper. So with that said, I had other plans to decorate the crib and make things personal to my touch.

With a little time and planning, I decided that I would make things using my sewing machine for the nursery. Such items include the dust ruffle, a wall hanging, and a window treatment. I have also included a play quilt or cuddle quilt that can also be used for floor time. So far in the past week I've finished 2/4. So I'm 50% done.

I do have to say myself they turned out SUPER cute. I have never made a dust ruffle in my life but with my sewing experience and a KILLER set of instruction that I found on a blog, I actually finished it in 48 hours. Record time if you ask me.

Then just a few days last I came up with the idea to make a cuddle quilt and was on the hunt for a pattern and some fabric. I was quickly becoming disappointed when nothing was striking my fancy, then came a sale at a store.

In looking for fabric to complete the wall hanging I stumbled across my favorite quilt store which was having an anniversary sale so the whole store was 30% off. I came across this kit that was just what I was looking for. The next day, I opened the kit and started putting it all together. Once again, to my surprise, I had it done within 24 hours. Go mom go! I must be on a mission.

Here are a few photos.

Thank you Grandpa Ken and Barb

So while out visiting from a brief vacation of inches of snow, Grandpa Ken and Barb decided to gift Jack with his stroller (which also comes with an infant carrier). One day after work we picked it up from Babies R Us (using a coupon of course) and promptly went home and put the stroller together. I couldn't wait, so now it's put together and we stare at it every day in anticipation of our lil-guy to come home and give it a try.

Here is a photo:

And if anyone wonders what kind it is, it's a Chico Keyfit. It came highly recommended by a few friends as well as consumer reports.

I know it's a rather large stroller combo, but I do have the vehicle to transport the stroller it so it shouldn't be a problem. I can't wait to put Jack in it :)