Friday, February 10, 2012
2 week photos
A huge thank you to my dear and gracious friend Sara W. for taking these newborn pictures for us. They turned out great!
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
details
Many of you have already heard the excitement and drama of the past few weeks, so no need to keep reading. I am terrible with remembering details, so this is more for my benefit than anything else :)
I was admitted to the hospital on Tuesday night, January 24 to be induced. I really didn't have a choice because my blood pressure was higher than normal in the office that day. I wasn't dilated yet, so I started Cervacil overnight and Pitocin started Wednesday morning around 7am. As of 9am I was dilated to a "one" so the OB broke my water at that time and I got my epidural not too much later. All along I was having contractions, but feeling pretty well. Later in the afternoon I started not feeling well. I was making very little urine. My legs, thighs, and stomach were becoming more and more swollen, and my blood pressures were slowly creeping up. My OB came back around 7pm and I was only dilated to a "four." He told me I was showing obvious signs of preeclampsia and that we needed to get the babes out. So, despite my determination over the last 9 months to avoid it, C-section it was. I soon had a whirlwind of nurses in my room prepping me for surgery. It all happened very quickly. I don't remember too much about the actual C-section, other than the terrible dry heaves and the very odd sensation of pulling and tugging, but no pain. As soon as the babies were out the anesthesiologist gave me something good and I slept for a good while.
I had a fairly uneventful recovery over the next few days. My blood pressures were still a bit high, but the docs weren't very concerned. We were discharged Saturday around 5pm with instructions to watch my blood pressure at home. Well, I checked it a few times that night and it was high. After taking my meds and a good 2 hour nap, at 6am it was 190/110 so, off to the hospital I went with my mom as I left Doug to fend for himself with two newborns. I thought for sure they would give me something to bring it down and I'd be home by the afternoon. Little did I know that it would turn into four nights in the hospital.
For the first 48 hours I was on magnesium sulfate to prevent seizures until they could control my blood pressure. Unfortunately, while on the mag I wasn't allowed out of bed and was given only clear liquids. While I enjoyed the many different flavors of jello, I don't want to see another popsicle or chicken broth for awhile. I was also having really bad headaches and blurred vision. This was most likely from the mag, but neurology was consulted and ordered a CT of my brain...which was normal. I was still significantly swollen up to my thighs when I came back in, but completely diuresed that while I was there.
After four nights, I finally made it back home on Thursday afternoon. The doctors told me it was most likely preeclampsia which showed up late, but that I may also have some underlying hypertension. I was discharged on three blood pressure meds. My blood pressure is better, but still not completely controlled. At one point I stood up too fast and felt like I was about to pass out...it was 79/46, but other times it is up to 135/99.
My children were well taken care of while I was gone. My parents helped out tremendously during the days, as Doug slept and visited me in the hospital. My in-laws came out mid-week as well and have been a huge help too. I have been fortunate enough to be the only one to get a full night sleep...every night :)
I am so lucky to have married the most amazing and dedicated man. I am so proud of him and everything he has learned and done for our little family in the last few weeks.
And, for what you all really visit the blog for...
I was admitted to the hospital on Tuesday night, January 24 to be induced. I really didn't have a choice because my blood pressure was higher than normal in the office that day. I wasn't dilated yet, so I started Cervacil overnight and Pitocin started Wednesday morning around 7am. As of 9am I was dilated to a "one" so the OB broke my water at that time and I got my epidural not too much later. All along I was having contractions, but feeling pretty well. Later in the afternoon I started not feeling well. I was making very little urine. My legs, thighs, and stomach were becoming more and more swollen, and my blood pressures were slowly creeping up. My OB came back around 7pm and I was only dilated to a "four." He told me I was showing obvious signs of preeclampsia and that we needed to get the babes out. So, despite my determination over the last 9 months to avoid it, C-section it was. I soon had a whirlwind of nurses in my room prepping me for surgery. It all happened very quickly. I don't remember too much about the actual C-section, other than the terrible dry heaves and the very odd sensation of pulling and tugging, but no pain. As soon as the babies were out the anesthesiologist gave me something good and I slept for a good while.
I had a fairly uneventful recovery over the next few days. My blood pressures were still a bit high, but the docs weren't very concerned. We were discharged Saturday around 5pm with instructions to watch my blood pressure at home. Well, I checked it a few times that night and it was high. After taking my meds and a good 2 hour nap, at 6am it was 190/110 so, off to the hospital I went with my mom as I left Doug to fend for himself with two newborns. I thought for sure they would give me something to bring it down and I'd be home by the afternoon. Little did I know that it would turn into four nights in the hospital.
For the first 48 hours I was on magnesium sulfate to prevent seizures until they could control my blood pressure. Unfortunately, while on the mag I wasn't allowed out of bed and was given only clear liquids. While I enjoyed the many different flavors of jello, I don't want to see another popsicle or chicken broth for awhile. I was also having really bad headaches and blurred vision. This was most likely from the mag, but neurology was consulted and ordered a CT of my brain...which was normal. I was still significantly swollen up to my thighs when I came back in, but completely diuresed that while I was there.
After four nights, I finally made it back home on Thursday afternoon. The doctors told me it was most likely preeclampsia which showed up late, but that I may also have some underlying hypertension. I was discharged on three blood pressure meds. My blood pressure is better, but still not completely controlled. At one point I stood up too fast and felt like I was about to pass out...it was 79/46, but other times it is up to 135/99.
My children were well taken care of while I was gone. My parents helped out tremendously during the days, as Doug slept and visited me in the hospital. My in-laws came out mid-week as well and have been a huge help too. I have been fortunate enough to be the only one to get a full night sleep...every night :)
I am so lucky to have married the most amazing and dedicated man. I am so proud of him and everything he has learned and done for our little family in the last few weeks.
And, for what you all really visit the blog for...
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| Norah- my little ball of sunshine |
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| Rowan enjoying some tummy time |
Friday, February 3, 2012
my sweet babies
I promise to write sometime soon about the drama of the past week...but for now at least some pictures.
Rowan Douglas
1.25.12 @ 8:25pm
6 pounds, 5 ounces
19.5 inches
AND
Norah Faith
1.25.12 @ 8:26pm
6 pounds, 6 ounces
19 inches
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| meeting Norah for the 1st time |
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| meeting Rowan for the 1st time |
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| proud grandma |
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| proud daddy |
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| Rowan's 1st bath |
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| all clean! |
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| Norah's 1st bath |
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| all clean! |
Monday, January 23, 2012
week 38
Well, I've made it. I successfully carried these babes for 38 weeks. We will be induced the middle of this week.
It is a very surreal feeling. For 3 years we longed to get pregnant and never thought we would see the day. Then, we finally got the news that my pregnancy test was positive and for the last 9 months I have had to consistently pinch myself to avoid denial. The nursery is ready, car seats are installed, and our bags are packed...but it still doesn't feel real. I can't believe we will be holding these babies in our arms in just a few short days. We are so excited but so nervous at the same time. Doug and I are so thankful and blessed to have reached this point.
Some quick facts about this pregnancy:
* We found out on May 31st that we were pregnant...the day after Doug's 31st birthday.
* I felt very nauseated during the first trimester, but only threw up twice.
* My blood pressure has been consistently high from the beginning, but controlled with Labetelol 100mg twice a day.
* I had to complete three 24 hour urines to rule out preeclampsia. All came back negative.
* I found out at the beginning that I am heterozygous for the MTHFR mutation, needing to be on extra Folic Acid supplementation.
* We found out around week 18 that Baby "B", our girl, had a choroid plexus cyst; however we believe it has resolved as it is not showing up on the last 2 ultrasounds.
* We found out on our most recent ultrasound that Baby "A", our boy, has prominence of his renal pelvises. Most likely nothing, but will need follow up with the pediatrician after delivery.
* I have had 10 ultrasounds over the last 9 months.
* I have had 19 non-stress tests, with one more to go.
* I have gained 50+ pounds so far...oops :)
* These babies will be grandchildren # 10 & 11 for my parents, and # 6 & 7 for Doug's parents.
Well, that's it for a bit. It will probably be a few weeks before I post again :)
It is a very surreal feeling. For 3 years we longed to get pregnant and never thought we would see the day. Then, we finally got the news that my pregnancy test was positive and for the last 9 months I have had to consistently pinch myself to avoid denial. The nursery is ready, car seats are installed, and our bags are packed...but it still doesn't feel real. I can't believe we will be holding these babies in our arms in just a few short days. We are so excited but so nervous at the same time. Doug and I are so thankful and blessed to have reached this point.
Some quick facts about this pregnancy:
* We found out on May 31st that we were pregnant...the day after Doug's 31st birthday.
* I felt very nauseated during the first trimester, but only threw up twice.
* My blood pressure has been consistently high from the beginning, but controlled with Labetelol 100mg twice a day.
* I had to complete three 24 hour urines to rule out preeclampsia. All came back negative.
* I found out at the beginning that I am heterozygous for the MTHFR mutation, needing to be on extra Folic Acid supplementation.
* We found out around week 18 that Baby "B", our girl, had a choroid plexus cyst; however we believe it has resolved as it is not showing up on the last 2 ultrasounds.
* We found out on our most recent ultrasound that Baby "A", our boy, has prominence of his renal pelvises. Most likely nothing, but will need follow up with the pediatrician after delivery.
* I have had 10 ultrasounds over the last 9 months.
* I have had 19 non-stress tests, with one more to go.
* I have gained 50+ pounds so far...oops :)
* These babies will be grandchildren # 10 & 11 for my parents, and # 6 & 7 for Doug's parents.
Well, that's it for a bit. It will probably be a few weeks before I post again :)
Sunday, January 22, 2012
weeks 36 & 37...we're getting close!
This post is just a little overdue...but better late than never.
We went from this:
We went from this:
to this:
I may have forgotten to take a picture of Doug's beloved "Redondo Red Pearl RSX Type S Acura" before it drove away...but at least he has a mini version sitting on his desk he can always look at and reminisce with :)
I had my official last day at Pronger Smith during week 36. I really thought I would have been more emotional and sad about it, but I went home just like any other day. I don't think it has really hit me yet. It has been good to be home and relax for a couple of weeks. My to-do list was full, but has slowly dwindled down.
And the preggo pic:
I didn't realize just how chubby my face has gotten :)
Stay tuned for week 38.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
35 weeks and a happy new year!
Wow, two updates in two days. I've been a bit under the weather for the last few days. I'm finally starting to feel better...but not quite well enough to do the laundry :) Being sick for four days with body aches, chills, and stomach grossness...I can finally say that this pregnancy has gotten the best of me. Don't get me wrong, I have loved every minute of it, but I have been miserable for the last few days. I am so thankful for Doug. If he cares for these babes even half as much as me, he is going to be a wonderful dad. Unfortunately, we had to cancel our NYE plans and I spent my 31st birthday in bed most of the day.
Other than that, things are going along well. I can't believe we only have 3 weeks left. Everything is continuing to look good. The babes are very cooperative at my NST appointments...it's me that is causing the problem. Still gaining a lot of water weight and my BP is still on the border, but no other signs of preeclampsia yet. No more salt for me for a bit. The pictures below don't do my swelling justice...I can only fit into one pair of shoes right now. At least it has been warm out and I have embraced my flip flops a few times in the last week.
This is most likely my last week of work so that I can relax for 1-2 weeks before the babes come. It's a little bittersweet at this point. I start class again next Monday too...but how perfect is it that I will be taking Pediatrics this semester. On top of family and friends, I will always have a textbook, classmates, and instructor to refer to when I have no clue what I am doing :)
Other than that, things are going along well. I can't believe we only have 3 weeks left. Everything is continuing to look good. The babes are very cooperative at my NST appointments...it's me that is causing the problem. Still gaining a lot of water weight and my BP is still on the border, but no other signs of preeclampsia yet. No more salt for me for a bit. The pictures below don't do my swelling justice...I can only fit into one pair of shoes right now. At least it has been warm out and I have embraced my flip flops a few times in the last week.
This is most likely my last week of work so that I can relax for 1-2 weeks before the babes come. It's a little bittersweet at this point. I start class again next Monday too...but how perfect is it that I will be taking Pediatrics this semester. On top of family and friends, I will always have a textbook, classmates, and instructor to refer to when I have no clue what I am doing :)
And a few more pics from Christmas that didn't make the last post.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Week 34 and Merry Christmas!
Wow, what a difference a year can make. This was our second year in a row that we didn't bother putting up our Christmas tree or sending out Christmas cards. Last year at this time we had just failed another IVF cycle and I was depressed enough that I just couldn't find the energy for Christmas cards or trees. This year on the other hand, we were just too busy with moving and getting ready for babies, that we didn't bother. Next year. Promise.
Christmas was low key and quiet this year. Because we had travelled and seen family over Thanksgiving, Doug's parents decided to come to us this year wearing their work shoes...and what a help they were. Even though our initial thought of moving into this house was just to "live" and get us by for the next 2 years until I finish grad school, Doug still has his grand ideas for remodeling. They painted, changed out a handful of light fixtures, did some plumbing, cleaning, and organizing for us. We left his parents at home on Christmas night with a movie and frozen pizza, and went to my parents house to celebrate Christmas. We had a great time, despite the chaos of 9 grandchildren. We even got some bananagrams and euchre in :)
And thanks again to my sister Nat for all of the pictures she graciously took and let me borrow.
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