BTW... We did not "Just Relax"

Just saying hello!

2011-07-31T07:02:00.000-05:00

I'm a lurker. I read all of your blogs to keep up, but I just don't take the time to write much. Life is different now in such wonderful ways. We are planning G's 1st birthday party for next Sunday. The theme is baby dino's. So excited to share the day with family and friends. I will be meeting someone local soon who has hopefully also experienced pregnancy via donate embryos! I'm so excited that I may have someone nearby to share this experience with. It's truly a unique one. Hoping all is well. I'm sharing some of baby G's 9 mth pics. These were taken by my friend Kristi and we are beyond thrilled at how they turned out! She is super talented! Soon we'll have his 1 yrs pics taken and those will be here as well!

Time is flying.... new picture

2011-06-22T06:07:00.003-05:00

Wow... time has flown and he's already 10 1/2 months old! Doesn't seem possible. We had a wonderful Father's Day this past weekend and can't wait to enjoy summer! Here's the latest snap shot.

Couple of new pictures

2011-04-27T21:41:00.000-05:00

Our sweetie pie is 8 1/2 months old. What a joy he is. Everyday I count our blessings for this gift.

We had to do the Easter Bunny picture... Right??

Love this winning smile of his!!

This picture cracks me up everytime I see it.... Griffin's mad face.

6 month pictures!!

2011-02-06T16:56:00.000-06:00

Can't believe our little one is 6 months old (on Tuesday)!! He's got two nubby little teeth in the front! We'll find out on Tuesday how much he weighs... unofficially on our scale 19.7 lbs!!

We're watching the Super Bowl this evening. Griffin is sleeping on daddy in the big chair and I'm making Super Bowl snacks... chili, bacon wrapped waterchestnuts and Buffalo Chicken Dip with Chips. mmmmm (the snacks are what it's all about right?)

I am thankful and grateful everyday for this little blessing and cannot believe how he has changed our lives. I am reading all of your blogs and am thrilled for the newest and soon to be newest additions to our EA family!!!

Santa's got a little helper

2010-12-22T20:30:00.000-06:00

I cannot tell you how much love this little boy has brought to our lives. We thank God now and every day that we have him. Wishing all of your the merriest of Christmas's.

Someone told me that Griffin has a Santa sparkle in his eye. I think they're right.

God Bless!

One year ago today

2010-11-20T21:54:00.002-06:00

One year ago today two tiny embryos were placed in my uterus. One left us and went to heaven. The other has brightened our lives more than we could have imagined. Words cannot express our love and appreciation for the couple who lovingly placed Griffin in our care.

Truly we have much to be grateful for.

Halloween Fun

2010-11-01T14:00:00.000-06:00

I captured this one yesterday on my phone! It was actually my "costume".... I just thought he looked hilarious!

Update

2010-10-18T15:06:00.001-05:00

We continue to grow more in love with our little miracle everyday. He is 13 lbs 13 oz as of last Friday (90th %ile) and 24.25 inches long! He's holding his head up nicely and cooing bunches along with the cutest smiles!! I go back to work in 2 weeks (darn) and I'm a bit dreading it. My mom and dad will be caring for him in the afternoons after DH goes to work... so that lessens my worry immensely.

We have recently seen two people from our IVF clinic as we've been out and about. It is so fun to watch their expressions when they see the baby that is the fruit of their labor. They are so thrilled for us!

Pictures to come... blogger was taking forever so I gave up temporarily......................

Two months old

2010-10-08T21:59:00.000-05:00

Our baby is two months old! He's smiling and cooing and melting our hearts.

Is it the end of September??

2010-09-29T20:48:00.000-05:00

Time is flying and each day I swear I'll get to post something... but alas I only have moment to post an updated photo of our little guy! Here he is on his "tummy time" quilt that a wonderful friend of the family made for him. He's growing and changing everyday and I am still in awe of our blessing....

1 month pictures

2010-09-20T22:11:00.000-05:00

Griffin is now six weeks old! Here are a few of the professional pics we had taken two weeks ago.

Unofficial weigh in

2010-09-14T14:52:00.000-05:00

I hopped on the scale yesterday... I've lost 31 lbs! Glad for that! Then I picked up Griffin.... could he be 13 lbs?? He's just 5 weeks and 3 days old!! He's a good eater I will say - for sure! He doesn't go to the pediatrician until 10/15 so we'll have to wait til then! He is moving into the 3 mth clothes so I guess it's probably true!!

Here's a new picture from today!! Our first official smiling picture!!

Another decade down... many good ones to go

2010-09-03T20:56:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow I turn 40. This is not a sad day for me - I have everything I ever wanted! A wonderful husband, our health and a happy home and of course our sweetie pie Griffin. I can't believe he's here and he's almost a month old!

Breastfeeding is going well, though he is not sleeping for long spells at night as of yet. I believe it's called cluster feeding and this is the time he should be having a growth spurt. It's exhausting work, but I do love it and we love him - so no complaints from this girl.

He is growing and if I had to guess this is the one and only time he'll wear this little outfit from a good friend of mine so I thought I'd better snap a picture so I could send it to her.

I got a shower today!!

2010-08-24T15:36:00.000-05:00

Yes ... at 3 pm today I finally made it to the shower... it's such a luxury now!! Griffin sat nicely in his bouncy seat while I washed off the crud!!

Griffin's Birth Story

2010-08-14T22:28:00.000-05:00

We called the hospital at 8 pm on Saturday 8/7/10 to find out if there was any word on how soon we could come in to be induced. The dr. called back and said she thought it would be in the next 4-5 hours. She wondered if it was OK to call late. We both said a resounding YES!! So at 11:15 pm she called and told us "our table was ready" and that we could come anytime! We were ready to go and go there about midnight. Dr. broke my water at 12:20 am and the contractions started fairly soon after that. At 1 pm, they started my IV of Pitocin... which kick the 'ole contractions into HIGH GEAR! I labored til 5:30 am to get to 3 cm (started at 1 cm). That time in labor consisted of me in bed on my side for a while then moving to a rocking chair where I enthusiastically rocked (like a fiend) to get me through til 6 am which was my goal with the nurse to get my Nubane shot. Ahhhhhhh I've heard some say Nubane isn't that great..... but for 90 blessed minutes it was my bestest friend. I didn't care about much and almost felt a bit of memory loss. It started to wear off around 7:30ish am. At 8 am dr. agreed I was 4 cm on my way to 5 cm and I could have the epidural. That took a bit to get in but when it was done at 9 am all was well with the world. I spent the rest of the next 11 hours in bed turning from side to side trying to sleep. Mind you, since I got to the hospital I was connected to the following and had the following monitoring me: Blood pressure every 10 minutes (arm hickies to prove it), blood sugar every hour, temperature every hour, internal fetal heart monitor, internal fetal contraction pressure monitor. So the "sleeping thing" was a challenge at best. DH said he heard me snore briefly a few times. At 7 pm the pressure started pretty hot and heavy in my behind area. The nurse said it was a good sign. Yah in "hind sight" pun intended.. it was good, but it hurt like heck. The nurse checked me and I was at 10 cm but told me "don't push, we need to wait for the dr. and she's delivering next door". So for 60 solid minutes I went to the land of breathing and hearing loss. I completely ignored all of those who tried to speak to me. DH totally got this... the others I think thought I was nuts. In out, In out, In out. It was all I could do and I don't think I missed a beat. I think it was the most focused I've ever been in my life. The anethesiologist even came in and tried to up my epidural to see if I could get any relief, but didn't give me much hope it would help the pressure. Finally at 7:55 the dr. arrived and swiftly got in her gown and told me it was TIME TO PUSH!!! Sweet Jesus... praise the LORD!!! I pushed through 6-7 different contractions for a total of 21 minutes and out he came. She had to do a teeny episiotomy but no tearing. Up he popped onto my chest with a good set of cries. I was in disbelief. DH was there every minute holding my legs and giving me encouragement. He cried, I cried, our miracle was here.

I am still in awe that a wonderful couple out there gave us this gift. How can you say thank you for this wonderous baby our son Griffin. Thank you does not seem to fit the bill.

New picture

2010-08-11T13:25:00.000-05:00

This one made me cry....'course most things make me cry right now!

Griffin Michael arrived 8-8-10

2010-08-10T19:17:00.001-05:00

He arrived right on his due date at 8:20 pm. We went in for inducement on 8-8-10 at 12:05 am. He was born 7 lb 10 oz and 20.5 inches long. I'll give you all the birth story later... it was a wonderful day and we are in love.

I'll have more pics later!!

Little update

2010-08-07T10:51:00.000-05:00

Dr called from the hospital. They are plumb full of ladies in labor and I'm on hold for inducement until they call. She said it could even be this evening depending on how things move along. So we wait and watch a little TV. DH gave me a beautiful card this morning that made me cry. We are still looking at each other in disbelief that this is actually going to happen. I'm somewhat calm for now but I'm sure the nerves will kick in soon.

The latest...

2010-08-06T05:21:00.000-05:00

Dr. stripped my membranes on Wednesday... had significant bleeding from that for just the rest of that day... oh and cramping. She said she would induce me on Saturday unless I go into labor before that. Well the cramping turned into back pain and severe cramping yesterday at about 2 pm and lasted for about 4 hours. I really chalked it up to gas pain. It felt like I had eaten about 5 Fiber One bars and was suffering the consequences of that - except with back pain. My poor DH raced home from work and started shoving stuff in the car. I told him that we had to simmer down and that it might not amount to anything. As I had guessed, the cramping let up and then I just had back pain. Now things have seemed to subside, but this morning I lost my mucous plug (ewwww). Not to be graphic but I read somewhere that someone called it brown vagina snot and I thought "geez lady... that's disgusting". I'm here to tell you all-- It was accurate. Hopefully I'm not being offensive, just want to be truthful.

I slept from about 11 pm to about 4 am this morning and now I'm wide awake and starving hungry. I think I'll go and have a snack and the DH and I can make a little trip out for breakfast. Unless I go into a real labor today, then I'm to call Labor and Delivery tomorrow morning at 6 am and ask if it's OK to come into be induced. So soon we will have our little one. Can't wait to share that with you all.

No clear plan... yet

2010-08-02T22:24:00.000-05:00

Had my non-stress test today... all looked good. Dr. checked me... not dilated at all. Hmmmmmmm She said to keep my OB appt for Wednesday and she'd check me then. If I'm starting to dilate then we can consider inducing on Saturday, otherwise it might be a week from Wednesday. We were so sure that she'd not let me go past my due date. But since I've done well with my Gestational Diabetes and the baby isn't getting too large, I think she feels OK about waiting a few extra days if necessary. She wasn't excited about inducing me without me being dilated though... she says it can be miserable. So now we wait...

The home stretch... I hope

2010-08-01T16:46:00.000-05:00

It's been a quiet weekend... I've spent much of it (Fri, Sat and today) on my butt on the couch trying to nurse this knee back to some assemblance of health. It got so bad on Thursday that I had to have coworker go get my car and another coworker get me a wheelchair and take me to my car so I could get home. I think I over did it a bit with walking around at work too much. Lesson learned. I'm worried that they are going to induce me which requires a ton of walking around to get things moving and I don't know if the 'ole knee can hack it. Think postive thoughts that my knee will behave. Tomorrow's NST and meeting with my dr will give me more answers. We're getting very anxious to meet our little guy - though I am pretty much scared to death I will admit. DH told the dogs today that this would probably be our last weekend as "just us" and that they'd have a new brother by next weekend. In my hormonal state this touched me so much and made me cry... it's really gonna happen.

Stressful day yesterday

2010-07-30T17:29:00.001-05:00

Started the day with my regular non-stress test. About 3/4th of the way through I felt him move big-time and then his heart rate briefly dropped to 102. Well the doctor saw it and immediately ordered an ultrasound. Sounded serious to me so I freaked out a bit. Started crying as I called my husband to come to the hospital and he raced to the hospital in record time. My blood pressure shot up from the stress, setting off the monitor so the alarm was going off. The nurses were feeling so bad for me, trying to reassure me that it was a routine thing and most of the time there is not a problem, but they want to make sure he's not in distress.

So I get to radiology and they start the ultrasound. They were checking for movement and amniotic fluid. They allowed 30 minutes for proper amounts of movement.... he beat that within the first few minutes. He was shimmying all around - thank goodness. The amniotic level looked good as well. They give you a score at the end ... we got an 8 out of 8. The doctor was up in L&D hugged me as I was still emotional and said not to worry, he was looking really good and that she just wanted to take every precaution. I'm glad they are so careful, but it scared the be-jesus out of me.

Had my OB appt shortly after that. My strep test came back negative (good!) and when she checked me, my cervix was starting to thin, but I'm still closed....no dilation nada. So....... another NST on Monday, my OB will be there at the hospital and we'll make a plan that day. I have a feeling we'll be seeing the little guy in the middle or end of next week!

Car Seat safety check

2010-07-28T20:13:00.000-05:00

My parents and I went to the free local car seat safety check today. They show you how to install the car seat (base) for you and then tell you all about it. Then they take it out of the car and make you do it. It was surprisingly easy. I am glad to report that the car seat has not been recalled (good since I just got it as a shower gift). Mom and dad have a base in their car since they'll have him 3 hours a day starting in November. DH and I will take his truck later on while I'm on leave and have the local police station show us how to do the one in his truck. I'm feeling glad to have that done.

Anyone use coupons.c.o.m?? I have been getting so many great coupons from them lately. And for anyone who needs them there's a $3.00 off Hug.gies coupon on there right now. I picked up a few more pkgs of diapers. We've got a nice stash-pile of them in various sizes. With the coupon at T.arget I was able to get them for $.14 each~! Love that!

My latest concern has been my knee. I've got a nasty case of tendonistis and hamstring pull to battle for a bit. I think one of the dogs may have caused it by jumping on me a few weeks ago. I've been trying to be in denial about it, but it really flared up yesterday (couldn't walk on it) so I went to the dr. today to make sure it wasn't something more serious. Thank goodness it's not. But with no drugs I just have to wait it out. It actually feels better the more I walk on it, so I'm trying to get up and move every 30 minutes.

Our secretary said to me today " you know, I just never hear you complain about being pregnant... " I said "When you work this hard to achieve something.. what the heck do I have to complain about??" I'm enjoying the last few days of my pregnancy. I love it when he jams his butt into my ribs and his head into my pubic bone! Honestly... it just reminds me how fortunate we are. Can't wait to see his smiling face soon!

Tomorrow I have a non stress test and then an OB appointment. Wonder if I'll be dilated at all?

Advice at the end of the birth class

2010-07-22T21:21:00.000-05:00

I have been thinking about the "advice" that the nurse from last weekend's birth class gave all of us. She told us that we need to consider birth control after we have the baby because "we see repeat customers in here within a year of their last baby's birth because they relied on breastfeeding for their birth control". Kind of rubbed me the wrong way. I know what she's getting at. The message should have been "breastfeeding is not a reliable method of birth control". Then let us make the decision about what to do and whether possibly getting pregnant quickly after giving birth would be what we want. DH and I talked about birth control briefly and whether we needed it... I can't imagine we do - both of us have fertility issues - it does make me nervous at the thought of being pregnant soon after our son's birth, but on the other hand what a blessing it would be. With our remaining two frozen embryos we have to make a decision within three years of last September about whether we will be trying for more children of if they are offered to another couple. We think we'll try again with the other embryos, but we can't wait long as I am not getting any younger... age 40 is creeping up on me VERY SOON.

I'm just rambling, but I think more and more about the "advice" that nurse gave and it bothers me - again advice from the perspective of someone who doesn't consider what some of us have gone through in order to be in the birth class in the first place.

Thanks ladies!

2010-07-21T22:22:00.000-05:00

Thanks for all of your sweet comments on my last post. It seriously made me wonder if people just think... Geez she is getting really FAT!! Beings that I am not at my ideal weight a girl gets worried from time to time.

Tomorrow there is a shower at work for a co-worker in another department who is due 4 days after me. I am so thrilled for this sweetheart of a girl. She is glowingly happy and going to be such a great mommy. So to liven up the shower I thought I needed to give her something other than the group Target gift card that we're all chipping in for. So I go to Target tonight and decide I will give her something useful... but yet a bit embarrassing. So I go to the Maxi Pad aisle... and search out the LARGEST and LONGEST and MOST ABSORBENT maxi pad WITH WINGS that they have. I throw two pkgs in the cart... I am realizing that I need these too. Then I go a couple of aisles over and find a nice size jar of TUCKS! I have heard these are a God-send for a gal with sore lady parts after delivery! and then... I throw a box in the cart for myself. So this is actually all I need ... I head to the register. Hop into line... a few people file in after me. I plop the stuff up on the belt, the guy rings it up and I grab my purse and CRAP - MY WALLET IS ON THE SEAT OF THE CAR! So he has to set my lovely and EMBARRASSING purchases up on the side while I run out and get my wallet.

Here I am trying to embarrass my poor friend and apparently the joke is on me!! Oh well!!!

Do I look pregnant?

2010-07-20T22:15:00.000-05:00

I just had a co-worker tell me that someone just sheepishly asked them if I was expecting!!!!!!!!!!!!!! See exhibit A -photo of me 3 WEEKS AGO.... Please tell me that I look pregnant! How the heck do you miss this?? I see this person multiple times in week. I kind of think it's funny.... kind of.

OB Appointment update

2010-07-19T16:31:00.000-05:00

Non-stress tests continue to be great - BP 132/70... lots of movement and accelerations and decelerations - just what they want. No contractions on the monitor. I think I may have felt a small one on Friday evening. My blood sugars have been really good. Total weight gained is 17 lbs for the pregnancy. I'm pretty happy with that - shouldn't have much to lose after delivery and maybe I can get a jump start to a healthier BMI during my maternity leave.

So the Dr. said this about my current status. Cervix is completely closed. I'm glad I was aware that checking the cervix could result in spotting... except it was a bit more than spotting I must say - but it was "old blood (brown) so no worries. Glad I had a liner on. ICK! Had my strep test today. Just FYI... they check the vagina and the rectum.... (I wasn't aware of that...). I haven't lost my mucus plug yet. I'm due in 3 weeks. She said she will definitely not let me go past my due date. She is gone next week so I will see another doctor for a check of my cervix on 7/29. It's possible I could start to dilate in the next two weeks, but if by August 2nd I haven't gone into labor, she will consider inducing me if I've dilated a bit. If I haven't dilated at all by then, she will talk to me about a c-section. Because of my chronic high blood pressure (which has been well under control) and my gestational diabetes a c-section might be our best option so I don't run into issue with HBP and that the baby doesn't get too large with the Gestational Diabetes. She doesn't really want to induce me if I haven't already started to dilate it could be a rough road and then not progress well and then we'd end up with a c-section anyway.

So... if I had to lay money on what will happen.... I'm going to guess a c-section the week of August 2nd. I'm good with this outcome if it happens. I just want the safest delivery possible for our little one.

6 hour birth class done... check it off the list

2010-07-17T18:55:00.001-05:00

Today we attended the 6 hour birth class together. My only complaint... hard chairs and no tables in front of us. I have to say, that is a pet peeve of mine. I can do an hour meeting with just a chair... but six hours in a hard chair with nothing to lean on and no place to put the book and write stuff down - I hate that.

The class was good though and I think it made DH feel better to have some idea how to help me during the birth. As we were leaving to go to class he says... "I had the thought of leaving the doggies alone for the whole day.. how's this gonna be to leave our son with a sitter??" Poor guy - he loves his furry babies so much, as do I. But it just breaks his heart thinking about how much he misses them.

He got a glimpse of my roller coaster belly movement tonight - he gasped as I did the first time I saw it. Just a strange sensation. He's gonna be such a great daddy... can't wait to see him holding our son.

Same ole same ole

2010-07-15T18:12:00.000-05:00

I feel like I'm a lurker... reading everyone else's stuff - I have nothing new to report. Non stress tests are going well. I'm feeling good. 24 days left. Hubby and I have class this Saturday for birth prep. Baby's kicking like crazy... butt up in my boobs. Breasts leaking slightly of colostrum.

I have nothing to complain about... but plenty to rejoice for. Hopefully I'll have something exciting to report soon! Next OB appt on Monday!

Birth class last night

2010-07-07T20:29:00.000-05:00

So I attended a birth class last night. I went by myself since hubby works evenings. This was my "better take this class now in case we deliver before our real class on 7/17/10" class. It is a free two session (2 hrs each) at the hospital we're delivering at. I just didn't want DH to have to take two nights off for the class since there's a free Saturday class that has more substance later on, but it's so close to the due date it makes me nervous to wait for the other class entirely! I did smile when the instructor asked me if my partner would be joining me. I just said "no - but thanks for asking!" and she moved on. I'm sure they all thought... oh that poor woman... all alone. Yah yah yah... no big deal. We did get through quite a bit in 2 hrs including watching a real birth on video... amazing! I'd never seen that - and yes I am still in awe that a head can get through that opening - and that the opening goes back to a small size afterward - how does our body do that?

Well with 32 days left, the room to breathe is slowly depleting - but it's so wonderful to know he's growing into a healthy boy inside of me safe and sound. Can't wait to meet this pushing little bug!

34 weeks/4 days ultrasound

2010-07-01T10:11:00.002-05:00

Well here's our little one at 34 weeks and 4 days! He's looking good they say! They measured him at 6 lb 3 oz (+/- 12 oz) so that puts him in the 74th percentile.

We'll see what the dr. says on his size, but the tech told us they get more concerned if they're 90%ile or higher. I have a feeling I won't make it to my due date (8/8) but we'll see!

I told my husband that I'm making a conscious effort NOT to waddle... then he quacked at me!! LOL - the nerve!

34 week ultrasound tomorrow

2010-06-30T19:33:00.000-05:00

I can't wait to see our sweet one tomorrow! Sadly though I am guessing that this will be our last ultrasound. I feel a bit like a greedy girl though... I believe this is our 7th ultrasound. I'll have much more fun stuff to share tomorrow!

Sweetest friends

2010-06-28T22:02:00.000-05:00

My scrapbook gals who are some of my closest friends through me a shower tonight. They each picked their favorite children's book and gave it to us. So nice. We don't have a lot of books yet so I am so excited to be able to have these to fill his bookcase in the nursery. These ladies have been so supportive through the struggle with infertility... one even asked a friend of hers if she would give us her embryos... seemed so odd at the time... but it was the only thing she could think of that she could do to try an help us. The woman ironically told her that they didn't have any left, but that she would have considered it if they'd had any to give. People are just amazing.

Tummy tightness and names

2010-06-25T20:04:00.000-05:00

This seems to happen every Friday for the past few weeks... not sure why but my tummy is SO TIGHT and pain around the belly button. I think this little guy is rooting around for the exit door... the flight does not end for a few more weeks...thank you very much. I think it's starting to relax a bit. I can barely touch the belly button area without pain.

We found out that my DH's nephew and wife are having a boy (November)... and they've already announced the name. Someone said to me today... well if that was your name, you can't get mad. HUH? The heck I can't get mad... not that it's our name... so no worries. But I can get mad if I want! :-) Just exerting a bit of attitude. I was pleased though to note that the middle name "William" was top on my list - Top of my list of names that will not be used in our child's name. It is the name of DH's deceased father and my brother's name and my brother's brother-in-law's name and the brother-in-law's uncles' name.. oh and my DH's deceased brother's name. I could go on and on. I had no interest in bringing that name around the block again. HAVE AT IT nephew! :-) Not that I wouldn't have loved to honor my father-in-law who I unfortunately never met. But DH understands. The nephew's baby's first name is Isaiah. Also not on our list. This is an OK thing.

Why does everyone get so irritated that we aren't sharing his name until he's born? My gosh - it's the last of the surprises we have. Give me something people. I also cringe at the thought of someone saying - "Oh yah I knew kid in my class in high school with that name - he was such a jerk!". NICE! Just what I wanted to hear. I am hoping that when we have him in our arms, that no one will dare share a negative thought about our little man's name - or if they do - don't let me hear it.

1st Baby Shower and OB appt update

2010-06-18T21:20:00.000-05:00

My co-workers threw me a wonderful shower this evening! It was so nice to see everyone outside of work... and a few who I used to work with that will always be honorary members of the department! We received so many nice gifts, gift cards and the sweetest cards! I want to put them all in his baby book so he knows how many people love him even before they've met him! My manager even made the cutest baby quilt for him... with Chicago Cubs colors... my husband is gonna love it! It made me cry... wouldn't be a Michele shower without me crying...

It was such a fun night... and ended with the bang of thunder, lightening and hail on the way home! One of the girls who threw the shower had loaded up her car with my gifts for me and she was going to follow me home... but I told her to head to her house and take cover - we'll get to go through the gifts tomorrow - can't wait for DH to see the cards and gifts and pictures!!

One other note... had an OB appointment today... this round little (not that little) knob that keeps pushing into my rib and right breast apparently is his BUTT! I totally thought it was his head! Nope.. she thought it was a little less round and more flat and wide that the lower bulge which of course is his round little head that's been sitting on my pubic bone for the last 2-3 weeks! I am relieved that he's head down... now let's just hope he stays that way!!!

First Non-Stress Test yesterday

2010-06-15T15:28:00.000-05:00

Well at week 32 I'm starting my two-a-week Non-Stress Tests (NST's). Yesterday was the first one. I have to say, I found it so comforting to be able to lay there and listen to his heartbeat for almost an hour. After 20 minutes the alarm for my blood pressure went off and she had me shift to my left side for the remainder. It went from 146/89 down to 124/74. Apparently laying on my back must constrict blood flow?? :-) Imagine that! So I go every Monday and Thursday until he's born, and I'm not complaining - so reassuring and mildly relaxing as I get to lay there and watch TV or close my eyes for a bit. The blood pressure cuff does tend to prevent any actual napping though.

Ultrasound in two weeks! Can't wait to see how he's looking in there!

Ultrasound report

2010-06-08T22:05:00.000-05:00

Just a quick update on the dr's letter about the ultrasound last week. She says that his size is just fine and "in line with my due date of August 8th". She said he is slightly larger than average at 30 weeks and in the 68th percentile, which is also OK. She said my amniotic fluid high, which is common with gestational diabetes pregnancies. I've never heard that last part before.. so that was new information. Next ultrasound will be around the first of July.
My co-workers are throwing me a shower on June 18th and my sister-in-law is throwing me a family shower after he's born (probably late August). So fortunate to have such sweet friends and family.

New Ultrasound picture @ 30 weeks/2 days

2010-06-01T14:27:00.000-05:00

Well here is his sweet little face. The ultrasound went great. They got good pictures of all four chambers of his heart - the actual reason I was having the ultrasound. Dr. tells me I have to go back in 4 weeks for another one due to the gestational diabetes. I also have to start Non-stress tests in two weeks (twice per week). My blood pressure was good again. My total weight gain for the pregnancy is 7 lbs. - great! I am feeling relieved that I won't have much if anything extra to lose when he's born. And... with the new diet for the gestational diabetes.. I will hopefully be able to take off some more by following that diet and breastfeeding.

His booty end was on my left hip and his head was on my right hip and he was face down sleeping for the majority of the ultrasound. I rolled onto my right side and they were able to get some great 3-D pics of his face! They say he's about 3 lbs 14 oz. right now. They said I'm measuring at about 32 weeks... and they can be off by about a week... so no worries. Again I say, we are truly blessed.

Southern discomfort

2010-05-29T19:41:00.001-05:00

Should it feel like this little guy is sitting on my front pelvic bone? I'm not sure if he's sitting on it or just kicking me there a lot. One kick forced a double over ... ow!!

We have a 30 week ultrasound on Tuesday so I hope to see what position he's in... I can't tell if I'm feeling a butt, head or feet???????????

Glider rocker purchased!

2010-05-28T18:38:00.000-05:00

Found a good deal at a local furniture store on a glider rocker for the baby's room. Wasn't sure how I felt about a metal base, but it is super comfy and also reclines.

They had it on close out because it was discontinued. I like a good deal!

29 Week Belly Shot

2010-05-25T20:24:00.000-05:00

Today I was told that my belly has surpassed my ever growing breasts... I guess these ladies were right!

Falafel anyone?

2010-05-21T12:32:00.000-05:00

You know I've not really had too many overwhelming cravings so far in this pregnancy... but I am officially addicted to falafel. I had never had it til about a year ago... and now I can't get enough of it. With the gestational diabetes I'm limiting myself to once per week- though it's not bad for carbs mostly. It's so odd to me that I didn't even try the stuff until I was in my later 30s... my parents aren't adventurous eaters. For example I never tried Chinese food til I moved out of the house at age 19 . I don't consider Chinese food adventurous, but they do.

Can't wait til try out different foods on the little one - he'll have a more diverse palette than I did as a child. Of course, he technically has tried falafel already.............

28 week check up

2010-05-20T20:29:00.000-05:00

Had my latest OB appointment today. All is well...feeling so happy about that. Dr. did start me on a medication for the Gestational Diabetes. I'm to take it once a day and keep monitoring blood sugar 4x/day along with the diet. The diet... I can get used to that and I pray that I can just stick with it and get myself down to a more healthy weight after the baby is born. I'm at a total weight gain for the pregnancy of 7 lbs. Down by three pounds since the diagnosis. My dr said is totally fine... reminding anyone who didn't know... I wasn't a skinny minnie to start off with, so minimal weight gain is an OK thing. Baby boy is growing well so we are feeling great. I have an ultrasound at 30 weeks on 6/1/10. So excited to get new 3-D pics of the little one!

My co-workers are throwing me a shower on 6/18/10... so sweet of them. We're all registered and excited to see everyone there. If I kow my friends they will come up with some fun "entertainment" for the shower!

Sunday... ahhh

2010-05-16T16:50:00.000-05:00

So nice to have no where in particularly that we had to go today. We planted our plants, hung our flower baskets around the house. Had a leisurely lunch and met up with my friend from the infertility support group who just adopted twins. It was just a quick meet up to give her to Boppy pillows that had been given to me by another friend who suffered through infertility. The boppys were a donation originally intended for me (we already have two), but she was thrilled that someone in our "circle" could use them. The friend who adopted the twins was glowingly happy. She and her husband had experienced IUI multiple times and 3 IVF's without a pregnancy. They adopted their twins just weeks ago and are beyond thrilled! We didn't get to see the babies yet but the pictures are adorable and they are such great parents!

I'm happy to report I've been doing fairly well on the eating plan with gestational diabetes with just a couple of slightly higher Blood Glucose levels. It feels good to be eating this healthfully and knowing that I'm making a difference for the baby and me!

28 weeks along... less than 90 days... still in amazement everytime he kicks. Again I say, we are truly blessed.

Day of classes

2010-05-12T06:57:00.000-05:00

I started off yesterday with a Gestational Diabetes Education class. It was really helpful. They showed us how to check blood sugar and what to eat. I have to go for follow up next Tuesday. So far so good on the blood sugars for lunch and dinner yesterday. I still need to check it this morning. The constant eating is out of the norm for me, but I see why you have to do it... I get famished shortly after finishing eating a meal.

Then last night DH and I attended the Breastfeeding class. I did learn a lot there. I think though that a book might be helpful as well. I'm wondering about the library. Seems like one of those books I should read, but not purchase. She told us that 1-3 weeks after starting, things will really start making sense and your instinct will help you along. Hopefully it all goes well. It was reassuring for the instructor to say that there are only a very small number of women who cannot make enough milk for their child. I know they'll be a great resource.

The Fertility Chase

2010-05-10T18:40:00.002-05:00

In case anyone is interested there was a show on the WE channel this past Saturday called The Fertility Chase. I don't know if it will replayed but I think they're airing another episode this coming Saturday at 7:30 am. I found it really interesting! It even featured some of our doctors and a couple that I know. The website is http://www.thefertilitychase.com/ and does have some shorter versions of the videos from the program. Check it out if you get a chance. I think there's a lot of great information on there.

Good article for Mother's Day

2010-05-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

A good friend of mine who has been told by doctors that it's basically impossible for her to conceive and carry a child posted this on her Fa.ce.book today for Mother's Day. I think many of you who might read my blog can relate in some way. I have been forever changed by infertility. So many well-meaning people (including family) have said things to me and my husband that inadvertently felt like yet another jab at our hearts. I still cringe when I hear people ask someone... so are you having kids???

If you don't have anything nice to say on Mother's Day...

Diagnosis

2010-05-07T21:14:00.000-05:00

Well the dr. called today and yes, I've got gestational diabetes. CRAP! I will try to be positive about this. I will be eating even more healthy and maybe this will spur me into a more permanent healthful lifestyle. She said my numbers we not horrible and she said that if I comply with the diet and exercise that I will most likely do well. I have a Diabetes Education appointment on Tuesday with a dietitian and they will show me how to check my blood sugar and give me a good diet to follow.

She asked that I try to gain no more weight. That part worries me... though I've really done well and only gained 10 lbs, I just hope I can meet that challenge. I know many many women go through this, but I just never thought it would be me. I will do whatever it takes to keep this little one healthy so today begins a new chapter for me. Goodbye DQ... it's been real fun.

Glucose screening

2010-05-05T22:24:00.001-05:00

Had my glucose screening today. Grrrr... they wanted it under 140 - mine was 157.... so I gotta do the 3 hour glucose tolerance test (GTT). Friday is the day for that. Crossing fingers, toes and eyes that it comes out OK. If it's gestational diabetes I will just do what they tell me. Sigh.......................

Baby's room almost done - new pictures

2010-05-04T21:56:00.002-05:00

DH and I took the past four days and really got a ton of stuff done for Baby Boy. We painted his room and got the decals on the walls - moved the newly painted furniture upstairs and into his room and put together the crib that my dad made. I think it's looking mighty nice!

Here's the crib and the quilt I sewed. We still need a mattress, but my parents want to get that for us.

Here's the bookcase I painted and the swing we picked up over the weekend at our neighbors garage sale... used 3 times and $65 (new it was $149)! This also shows the little curtain valance I made that matches the quilt... chocolate brown with orange, blue and green dots.

Here's the dresser I've had for almost 20 years (still looks really good) and the changing table that was a bit rough til I sanded and painted it up!

Here's the paint and stripe (two shades lighter) that we decided on. The decals that I ordered from Etsy turned out great! I love the colors! His name will nestle between the giraffe and the gator... but not til closer to his birth!

24 week appointment

2010-04-22T13:17:00.001-05:00

All is going well according to our OB/Gyn.

Weight gain at appointment = 2 lbs (overall 10 lbs)
Blood Pressure = 137/72
Heart Rate = 151 bpm

We got to hear movement on the doppler... sounded like skidding tires. Then a big thump on the doppler to which the doctor gleefully says... I FELT THAT ONE!! I just love that she gets excited about that stuff - she probably gets to feel that often so it's neat that it still delights her.

So glad about my minimal weight gain. Mind you, I"m not obsessed with this. But as a mostly pudgy girl to begin with I really didn't need to gain much weight so I'm so thrilled that I've been able to keep this under control.

Feeling really good and feeling lots of baby movement. I'm feeling very lucky and very blessed.

Just a simple thank you note to our clinic

2010-04-16T20:46:00.000-05:00

Today I was thinking about the donation program at our clinic and how sweet our nurse was with helping us through the process of getting on the waiting list and then helping us choose our babies. I decided I'd send her a little thank you note and an update on our pregnancy. I figured she probably got notes like this often, but wanted to make sure she knew how much we appreciated her, the program and how thankful we were to the couple who donated our embryos.

To my amazement... this was her response.

Congratulations to you both! A BOY !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! What fun……….. I have 2 boys but they are very big now..26 and 22 years old !!!!! Boys are fun. I am so excited for you. I also want to say thank you for the kind words, and for taking the time to send me a note and thank us. I must admit that we often do not hear that so you have made my day. KEEP us informed. Have a great weekend.

I am so glad that I sent her a note. It makes me sad that they don't get updates and thank you's from couples who have benefitted from their work. I think about the life growing inside me and I want to thank them everyday for this experience.

Am I just being too sensitive?

2010-04-14T19:50:00.000-05:00

So I've got this co-worker who regularly irratates me. She and one other co-worker decided a few weeks ago that it would be cute to call me a different fruit each day based on what I wear. I went along with it for a few days. After a week of it, I nicely said "you know guys, I'm kind over the whole fruit thing... I'd rather not be compared to the roundest fruit you can come up with each day". One co-worker took the hint and stopped. The irritating one today says "gee... today you look like a lime!" I had on a lime top. So imaginative she is.. and oh how clever. NOT!!! So I say to her... "I thought we were done with that." She says..."" oh.... well I just couldn't help myself." Now... you'd think she was done ... RIGHT? No, then she says "Do you have pockets on the back of your pants? Is that what I see on your backside through your shirt?" I gave her a look, like "die woman". I said, "Do you seriously need to analyze my outfit everyday of the week? I am self-concious enough without you checking me out everyday and making comments". She says "well, I just thought you'd want to know that the pockets are making bumps back there". OH MY GOSH!!!!!! SERIOUSLY???? So I say to her " You know, I don't have to look at my butt and neither do you, so it shouldn't bother either of us!". You'd think she was done wouldn't you?? NO SHE WASN"T!!! Apparently it finally clicked with her that I might be irritated... so she says. "Oh Michele, you're outfit really is very becoming!" To which I walked away without a word to her and mumbled " F.... you" to myself as I walked away.

She pushed me to swearing .... I'm not usually that way, but she pushed me to it. At this point I don't even care if I'm being too sensitive in her eyes. Does she not think I stand in the closet each day trying to make sure I look cute. I am damn proud that I've got a baby belly with a life growing inside me. I am thrilled beyond belief that it's growing. But do I need her bitchy comments each day NO I DON'T!!!!

eek! Spiders!

2010-04-13T21:24:00.001-05:00

So last night I came home from work, walked into our half bath and jumped and screeched a bit... there was something dark with long legs in the toilet... A spi.... no wait, that's grass that one of the dogs must have brought in and DH threw into the toilet. Whew... thank goodness....

Tonight... taking a break from Amer. Idol... I got to that same bath and on the floor.. oh... crap... some more gras..... no CRAP... it's a REAL spider! I HATE SPIDEEES!! I threw the rug on it.... the dog came in, push the rug out of the way and ate the spider. I wanted to throw up.

Just my random thoughts tonight.... did I mention... I hate spiders..??? I think I'd better get used to random creatures ... I am picturing our son handing me little worms and bugs etc... at some point.

Breathe in... breathe out.

Names and Nursery walls

2010-04-07T10:37:00.000-05:00

So we have our name and one back-up name picked out. We've decided not to share the names until he's born. We'd like to keep at least one element of surprise.

For his room I found the cutest little vinyl wall decals that are super thin and when applied to the wall look like they're painted on. I think I'll be ordering them for his room. They'll let you indicate different colors which I can make the colors of his bedding.

Here's a couple of sample pictures... of course this is not his actual name.

Restless Legs

2010-04-04T18:56:00.000-05:00

I had restless legs last night ALL NIGHT. Then at 6:30 am I woke up with an extreme charlie horse....I haven't had one of those since high school.... what the heck? DH wondered if I was a bit dehydrated and maybe need to eat some bananas. I drink three 24 oz. bottles of water everyday at work and then have a decaf soda in the evenings.... I was thinking that was enough water... maybe not. And while I don't HATE bananas... I really don't love them. I was thinking canteloupe has lots of potassium... I'd better look that up.

Baby Boy is really starting to move around in there... feels like a goldfish in my belly. Sometimes it doesn't seem like it could be real. I'm truly in awe.

Two uteruses???

2010-03-26T13:34:00.003-06:00

My husband's nephew's wife (do I call her my neice-in-law??) just found out she's 7 weeks pregnant. During their ultrasound they saw the baby... and found out she has two uteruses?? WHAT?? Apparently there's one connected to each ovary?? I never knew of such a thing... She even says she could technically get pregnant in each uterus at different times and have babies with different due dates?

As an infertile person... I think that is just greedy... ;-)

20 week dr appointment today

2010-03-25T18:34:00.000-06:00

I had my 20 week appointment today with the dr. All is well.
Heart Rate = 152 bpm
Total weight gained by me = 7 lbs
Blood Pressure 137/82 - not too bad for me

She wants me to have a 30 week ultrasound where they can get better pictures of the baby's heart. The radiologist originally said that I should come back in 2-3 weeks, but she said she doesn't think it's necessary until 30 weeks. They should be able to get some fantastic 3-D pictures of little one by then. That's pretty cool!

Ultrasound pics

2010-03-22T20:24:00.002-06:00

Here's a couple that I scanned. DH has the CD that they made at the hospital and I know the 3-D pictures will look better right off the CD.

Here's a few more details. The radiologist told me that my placenta in anterior which means at the front. Between that and the fact that our son was up under my belly button, that was why they had such a hard time getting the shot that they want of his heart. The u/s tech said she sees the heart really well in real-time, but couldn't get a good still shot.

The other interesting thing is that the radiologist told me that I have an extra lobe on my placenta. He said it's not problematic but it is good that they know this so the OB/Gyn MD will know that she needs to make sure that is taken care of after his birth. How weird. I've never heard of that!

Oh and one final note about the generosity of others. One of my best friends in the world is giving me her breast pump. She has 3 children now and says her family is complete and would be so happy to give it me and DH! I am thrilled at not having to spend almost

$300 on a new breast pump. She only used this one with her first child when she had to go back to work - only used for 1 month before she made the decision to stay home with that child as well as the two following. People are so thoughtful. I am just amazed at the generosity of our friends and family and some new friends that we just met.

The big gender announcement!

2010-03-22T10:13:00.003-06:00

We are thrilled!!!! DH cried and of course that made me cry. He's 13 oz right now which is right on track. I'll have to go back in 2 weeks to get a quick recheck to get a better picture of his heart. They could see all four chambers of the heart sort of, but could not get him to the right position to take a good picture. He was up underneath my belly button area which causes shadows they tell me. So we'll go back and get a couple of quick shots. I'll try to post a few pictures later tonight.

20 weeks today! Ultrasound tomorrow

2010-03-21T05:54:00.001-06:00

It's odd to me to realize that I am half way through this pregnancy. They say the baby is the size of a cantaloupe. Wow! My belly is protruding nicely I'd say. Tomorrow is the big ultrasound and we can't wait. If the little one cooperates we will know the gender in just over 24 hours. Then begins the task of registering and decorating his/her room. Fun!

More news tomorrow!

So thankful

2010-03-13T16:12:00.000-06:00

My mom's friend GAVE us a ton of baby "equipment" today. I am talking oak crib, bouncy seat, car seat (brand new) with stroller, high chair, pack n play, and almost new boppy pillow. Along with that she threw in a comforter set and hamper. She wouldn't take a cent for any of it. So generous! We're going to put the crib and bedding at my mom and dad's house. I am fairly sure that they are going to do daycare for us! We only need care for 3 hours a day since my hubby works at 2:30 and I get off work about 4:30. I am relieved to know that our baby will be with family and never neglected. The only iffy part of all of that is my mom's health which can be up and down. I will be searching out a couple of drop-in type daycare situations so we have back-up. My boss can be fairly flexible if it's once in a while so I could arrange my schedule if grandma and grandpa can't do it for us one day.

We are pretty blessed I'd say.

How happy is it OK to be?

2010-03-05T20:10:00.001-06:00

I found myself thinking about this so many times in the last couple of weeks - How happy is it OK to be? I joined an IF support group a while back. The girls are wonderful. It gave me somewhere to be able to feel the feelings I was feeling. The hopelessness, the frustration, the sadness, the feeling of letting everyone down... all those things they understood. As time has progressed we are all in such different places- most with the hope of donor eggs/sperm or adoption soon to happen, except for my friend who I joined the group with. Well, as you all know we were given embryos and are so blessed to have become pregnant. My friend has not been so blessed. She feels as though she has not many options. Her husband is only open to a genetically related child.

So I find myself so guarded about talking about the pregnancy with her. I avoid the topic. I am so excited for what is to come for us, but yet, I steer others away from the topic when we are together with a group. Other friends who know both of our situations think that I shouldn't worry so much about it. But I do. I can't be callous about this, its not the right thing to do. I don't know how handle the situation and I feel silly and stupid and awkward about it. I try to put myself in her shoes. I realize that I can remember how it felt, but I can never go completely back to that same sense of hopelessness that hung over me day after day. I know there's no way to make it better. I just have to let it be as it will be. I just feel sad, for her and want her to have a little one soon on the way and to see the joy on her face that I know she will have when it does happen for her. I hope.

20 week ultrasound scheduled

2010-02-24T21:12:00.001-06:00

March 22nd.... I'm so looking forward to finding out if this little one is a boy or girl! We also can't wait to get another peek at him/her!!

Do I believe this stuff?

2010-02-20T18:41:00.001-06:00

I just found a Chinese Gender Predictor on bump(dot)com. I tried using the genetic mother's age at fertilization and my age at conception.... both came up as a girl. Boy, my husband will be surprised if that predictor is right. He says BOY BOY BOY he just has a feeling. I honestly don't care either way, though we've got 3 people offering to give us a TON of boy clothes and other baby stuff and only one person with girl stuff... not that this would sway me in any direction... I love a bargain, and why would I turn down really nice almost new stuff???

Time will tell, though I still can't believe we have to wait 4.5 weeks....

Itchy nipples

2010-02-20T09:43:00.001-06:00

I'm just gonna be blunt. My nipples itch. They are so itchy.... I could.... just .....well, itch them.... except my boobs hurt so much when I do it.... oh man!!! :-) My friend who had a baby 18 months ago recommended that I start with lanolin now. It does help. Must go put more on.

I cannot be in denial any longer - I have a cold

2010-02-19T16:16:00.002-06:00

I was trying to chalk up my nasal congestion to "pregnancy related congestion". Well crap, I've got a cold. And I will not be taking any drugs to get through it - of course 'cause I can't. Honestly I'm just tired, not feeling too horrible, I just find the constant sneezing and nose blowing annoying. We've got family pictures (yes, thanks family for taking them when I'm getting chubbier) tomorrow and I'll have to bring a little something to make sure I don't have Rudolph the red nosed reindeer nose in the pics.

I'm just going to have some nice decaf tea and hunker down for the evening and weekend. Have a good weekend everyone!!

Follow-up

2010-02-18T10:20:00.001-06:00

Today's appointment went really well. Blood pressure good, only gained 2 lbs total (so glad about that), baby's heart rate is 145 bpm. We decided that we're not doing the 2nd trimester screening. We both feel pretty good about that decision. Genetic mom was 32 at the time of retrieval, so the odds are so low.

Our 20 week ultrasound won't be for five more weeks. The dr. wanted us to wait until we were at least 20 weeks along so they get the best pictures. She doesn't do ultrasounds in the dr's office at this point since their machine won't give the greatest pictures at this point.

NT results etc.

2010-02-18T07:08:00.001-06:00

It's been a while since I posted... have to get caught up! The NT results came back great. In the words of the dr.. "you ultrasound was negative, which is really good and the blood tests came back great as well!" So we are so glad to hear those results.

I am still periodically feeling the baby flutter around in there... though it's so slight I have a hard time believing it. It kind of feels like my muscles in my belly are twitching sometimes.

Today I have my 16 week appointment with the OB/Gyn. Not sure what today's visit entails... hopefully a short and sweet one. I am also hoping they'll schedule our next big ultrasound when we can find out the gender!!! Can't wait.

Belly Book

2010-02-09T19:44:00.002-06:00

My friend bought me a "Belly Book" when we found out we were pregnant. I love this book. It's so great that I can keep track of all of these little "events" as the pregnancy progresses. I will admit though that I didn't write in it until we were almost 10 weeks along. I was scared to death that I'd start recording a pregnancy that might not continue. I'm so glad I started now. It's fun to fill in the boxes and pop in pictures of the belly and record my thoughts etc.

Movement

2010-02-08T21:28:00.000-06:00

Ok, I know I'm not crazy... I can feel this baby moving. Ever so slight little flutters. I teared up the first time I actually realized what it was yesterday. Our baby is moving inside me. Can it be true? why yes I believe it can. So wonderful.

Hopeful for those still waiting on their miracle

2010-02-03T11:38:00.000-06:00

I am so sad today reading the blogs of some friends who are not receiving good news after pg tests. I refuse to give up on them and I hope they will maintain hope, though I know how hard that is to do. I thank God everyday for this blessing I am carrying.

Haven't Met You Yet

2010-01-28T19:22:00.000-06:00

As I was driving home today I really listened to the song "Haven't Met You Yet" by Michael Buble. I kept thinking it kind of reminded me of the IVF journey. I know it's really about looking for a relationship, but it kind of spoke to me. The whole time we were trying to get pregnant I would often think about what our child would be like and look like. I still wonder about our baby all of the time... I know I'm not unique in this. So fascinating to think about what the child will look like!

Feeling pretty proud of myself

2010-01-27T22:29:00.001-06:00

I really have not had much luck shopping for maternity clothes. Specifically pants. I can wait a while on tops, but my regular pants are just not comfy even being completely unbuttoned and with a belly band. I can't find anything (reasonably priced) that isn't black or khaki that fits me. So my husband said he wondered if I could convert a pair of my regular pants.... Hmmmmm, I do love a crafty challenge!

So I did it!! There are multiple tutorials on-line. I even found a You.T.ube video on it. So I went to Wally World and bought a spaghetti strap cami that was stretchy (black). A little smaller than the size I'd wear for $5. I cut it off under the boob area to make a long tube a stretchy fabric. Cut the waist band and a small curved area from the belly of the pants. I pinned the cut end of the tube of fabric to the cut waist band of the pants. Stitched it up on the sewing machine and voila! I did it. SUPER DUPER easy. You do have to be careful not to cut too much of the waist band off of the pants. My first attempt was an old pair of pants and I think I cut those too low, may be hard to keep those on.

I am quite pleased with my handy work. I am thinking I might be able to shop the clearance rack for regular pants and convert them to fit my needs! How nice is that??

A New Addition to the "Do Not Eat List"

2010-01-27T14:05:00.002-06:00

Current entries to the "Do Not Eat List":
Raw Broccoli
Breakfast Sausage

New Addition:
Sloppy Joes (is that a midwestern term?)

I hope you all know what sloppy joes are... if not, I guess I've seen the following other terms: Beef Burger, Manwich, BBQ Loose Meat burger. Anyway, ground beef, with a ketchupy bbqish sauce on a bun. I am paying the price for it as we speak. Tums is my best friend. Our cafeteria was pretty limited today and I apparently chose wrong. I avoided the fried mozzarella sticks and the gooey chocolate cake though! I honestly still should not complain though. Heartburn is my only pregnancy symptom. Still no morning sickness and since I'm at 12 weeks and 3 days, I guess I am probably out of the woods.

NT Test

2010-01-25T09:41:00.001-06:00

We had our NT (Nuchal Translucency) test this morning. All looked good on the ultrasound. We won't get the results back for a little while. The heart rate of the baby was 161 bpm. Of course everyone is telling me - Oh that means its a girl. My husband REALLY thinks its a boy. I just don't have a feeling yet. Time will tell! I'm just so thrilled that we got to see him/her again! He/she was pretty active during the ultrasound. DH was able to record the heartbeat on his cell phone so we can let his mom listen to it. She will be so thrilled. She'll be 80 yrs old this summer and is so so excited for us. She has grandkids ranging in age from 43 to "still cookin'". My parents are really excited too and cannot wait to hold this wee one in their arms. This will be their 3rd grandchild. But the youngest of the other two will be 14 this summer, so it's been awhile.

12 weeks.... feeling very very lucky

2010-01-24T06:33:00.000-06:00

I feel relieved to see that ticker say 12 weeks. It's been a tough road to get here and I'm feeling so fortunate. Thanks to all of you for your support. I am so looking forward to the next 28 weeks. I gosh, when I say it that way, it sounds kind of soon!

Does anyone have a tissue?

2010-01-21T20:25:00.000-06:00

My friend sent me this email today. You know the type. Little girls dog died and she sent a letter to God saying that she was asking the God take care of the dog. She got a letter back from God ..... OH MY GOSH... totally started crying at my desk couldn't even finish the email story. Had to close the door and compose myself. I work in an office with 8 other women, but still. Deep breath.

I am driving home. Celine Dion on XM's the Heart channel. A New Day Has Come is playing on the radio. OH MY GOSH, started balling in the car. Had to pull over to the Lowe's parking lot to get ahold of myself.

Then I reread Stacey's post and sobbed some more when I got home.

Now as I'm typing this... I'm crying. Oh my poor husband is gonna think I've lost it. No, not really. He knows I'm a cryer. But not usually 3 or 4 times in a day.

I think that seeing the baby move today on ultrasound made me believe that it's actually going to happen. We're having a baby... Wow.

12 Week Sonogram

2010-01-21T16:07:00.000-06:00

Here's our little bambino! Trying to decide if this is a front or back view... I'm thinking its a back view.

Acrobatic moves

2010-01-21T12:43:00.002-06:00

The appointment went well. We heard the strong heartbeat and got a quick sonogram! I'll post it later for everyone to see. He/she even did a little acrobatic move while we were watching! My heart is smiling bigger today knowing that all is well inside my tummy.

Dr's Appointment tomorrow!

2010-01-20T22:17:00.000-06:00

I'm so excited about tomorrow's appointment. Hoping to hear the heartbeat and see the baby. It will put our minds at more ease. I will also be more fully announcing the pregnancy. I have to say I'm a bit nervous about making the bigger announcement. I can't even explain why. I've been lucky to have shared it with my closest of friends and our families so far and feel very happy and safe in that supportive cocoon.

More tomorrow - and hopefully a sonogram picture!!

Maternity Jeans

2010-01-19T22:24:00.000-06:00

I finally did it. Went to Motherhood Maternity and bought maternity jeans. They are cuter than my regular jeans. I LOVE THEM! They even had my size in petite... yes, I'm short (5 ft 3 inches). The lady told me I might want to go one size down, 'cause they stretch out throughout the day. I say to her from the dressing room. "Yes, but I'm only 12 weeks and I don't picture my butt and thighs getting smaller." She just giggled.

Thursday is our next dr's appointment where we'll hear the heartbeat and I'll be asking for an ultrasound. I don't care that were having one on Monday at the NT test. It's been a month, I"m paranoid and I WANNA SEE OUR BABY!!!!!!

Is a lime the same size as a fig?

2010-01-18T16:15:00.000-06:00

You know these sites that tell you "your baby is the size of a lime right now"... etc. etc. Well one site is saying lime, one site is saying fig. I have really never encountered a real life fig (unless you count a Fig Newton). But from my vast experience with food from watching Food Network, I really don't think they're the same size... I should stick with one website for consistency.

Any thoughts on this?

2010-01-17T16:18:00.000-06:00

I was thinking about the nuchal translucency test that we were planning to do next week. If they use my blood as part of the testing to determine genetic defects, I don't see how the test is accurate. Wouldn't it need to be the genetic mother's blood? Did any other moms/mom-to-be through embryo adoption/donation do this test? I'll be asking my dr on Thursday about this, but I was just curious.

Ok, seriously??

2010-01-15T06:32:00.000-06:00

I have no words for this little number. Oh wait, yes I do. Maternity athletic supporter.

11 more....

2010-01-14T19:43:00.000-06:00

Just eleven more of these delightful PIO shots. I know I'm not alone when I say, I'll be glad when these are done. I'd do them again in a heartbeat if needed, but I am not sad to see them go soon. DH too is so glad that he doesn't have to (in his words) "stab his wife every night". I think it's worse for him than for me.

Strangely disappointing

2010-01-13T07:10:00.000-06:00

I pulled out a pair of pants this morning that I hadn't worn in a couple weeks. Hey - I could button them! I found this very strangely disapppointing. I will agree that they have a little more stretch to them than my others. I kind of enjoy not being able to button my pants. It makes me smile each time it happens. I told a friend of mine that I had gotten to the "pants don't fit" stage and he said "oh hon, don't worry, it's bound to happen". I told him "hey - I'm thrilled about this" He just smiled.

Just over a week til our next appointment and hopefully ultrasound. I am pretty certain they'll do an ultrasound... can't wait to see this little one and get reassured that all is going well.

Kind of a fun game

2010-01-11T08:42:00.002-06:00

I think there's a few people who may know I'm pregnant, but found out in a round-about-way so they're scared to ask me. I LOVE THIS! And you know what... I'll tell them when I'm damn good and ready! I love the slight hinting... the "what's new with you?"... the smiling incessently at me. If they were top on my list of people to tell, I would have already told them! He he he (evil laugh).

So fun........

I had a co-worker a while back who gained a lot of weight after her wedding (about 35 lbs within 4 months). So when a guy she works with came up to her and said "when are you due?" she said ('cause she wasn't pregnant). "Gee when I get pregnant, I'll let you know!". She never missed a beat on that one. I would have been so caught off guard, but not her, she gave it right back to him. I guess it's good that people aren't asking me, so I must not look pregnant yet. The button on my pants knows different though.

Ahhhhh... the belly band is so nice

2010-01-08T18:36:00.000-06:00

So I just bought the "Be-Band"' at Target. LOVE IT!! How could something so simple provide instant ahhhhhh??? I spent all day today with my pants unbuttoned and worried about my zipper... that can stop now! So comfy and keeps the pants up so nice! What a great invention!!

I had to do it

2010-01-06T06:39:00.003-06:00

Today the 'ole dress work pants are just not going to button comfortably... I had to do the whole pony tail holder through the button hole and back to the button trick... The good news is that I haven't gained any weight yet. Thank goodness.

I realize this is a TERRIBLE picture. It's apparently quite hard to take a close up picture of yourself from a short distance. Suffice to say the elastic holder is doing it's job!

Stages of Development

2010-01-04T15:41:00.002-06:00

I found this picture on-line and thought it was kind of interesting (click on it to get a better view). When I compare the embryo in this picture to our ultrasound picture I am more convinced that we could see "wee ones" little legs and maybe that was the eye sockets and chin at the top there. The last picture is where we are at now (actually we're at 64 days). How do they come up with these pictures- they're amazing??

Now a green olive

2010-01-03T06:18:00.000-06:00

I'm reading that the baby is now the size of a green olive. Waiting for the next ultrasound or doppler is making me a bit nuts. I get a little worried that something is not going well. I know that I'm not alone in my worrying this way. Sigh. Do you think it's possible to feel a baby at this size? I was laying on my back the other day on the couch and could feel a slight fluttery twitch in my lower abdomen. I feel a little crazy for even thinking that this could be the baby, but I just couldn't help but wonder. We're having DH's side of the family over today for x-mas, should be a nice lunch and get-together! Hope everyone is enjoying the first parts of 2010.

Nuchal translucency test

2009-12-29T06:58:00.000-06:00

I've scheduled the nuchal tranlucency test for Jan 25th. I'm a bit nervous about it, but I really feel like it's better to know early if there are potential health issues for our baby. The genetic mother was 32 at the time of the retrieval so the risk is very low - for that I am glad.

Having the week off from work is so nice. The weather is so cold, so it's nice not to have to worry about leaving the house unless we want to. Not much else going on here... but I like boring!

The cat's out of the bag (to the family)

2009-12-27T05:34:00.000-06:00

Well, most of my family knows now that there's going to be a little one in August 2010! Everyone has been thrilled. Have I ever asked all of you your plans if you used donor eggs/sperm/embryos? We are telling people. I just think it's better that they know up front, get over and move on. I also want someone else who may not know that this type of option is available to know that it is and it can work! Our child will know from an early age what their story is. I want them to know how much we wanted them and how loved they were even from the point that we saw them in a photo before they were put in my tummy. Our family has been so supportive of this. Only one non-family person (she is a co-worker) has made a comment that made me raise my eyebrow a bit. Of course knowing her and how she is I wasn't too surprised or offended - kind of made me just roll my eyes. I won't post the comment, it's not worth remembering.

Hope everyone's holiday was great! DH and I took vacation time til Jan 3rd! Should be a nice relaxing week!

Thank you and Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T16:14:00.000-06:00

In the past few months I have felt support from so many who I have never met. This Christmas I finally feel a part of the peace that my husband and I have been wishing we would have for many many years. You will never know what your support means to me. Just to know that there are others who know the pain of infertility and offer words of encouragement even in their times of sorrow brings tears to my eyes.

I feel so fortunate to have become pregnant with the child we have wanted for so very long. I pray that my pregnancy will continue to progress and that I will see the sweet smile of our child next year.

I just want to thank all of you readers, my blog friends. Wishing you the best of Christmas and whatever holiday you are celebrating at this time of year. I so look forward to 2010 and what life will bring to me and my family.

I do not enjoy TUMS

2009-12-23T10:38:00.000-06:00

Someone told me today (as I was popping yet another TUMS to combat my heartburn), that they LOVE the taste of TUMS. What is wrong with this person? Yes, there are worse things, but I am not growing any fonder of these little miracle chews as the days progress. Chalky little things...but hey gotta do what it takes.

First OB/Gyn appointment tomorrow

2009-12-22T10:07:00.001-06:00

We have our first OB/Gyn appointment tomorrow! Can't believe they got us in so quickly. I guess they will consider this to be my 8 week appointment. We SAW the heartbeat yesterday and I realized afterward that we never HEARD the heartbeat. So that will be neat tomorrow to actually hear it. The weather around here is supposed to get really bad so I hope we won't have problems making to the appointment!

I just read this and it put my mind more at ease: At 7-8 weeks your doctor may look or listen for the baby's heartbeat with an ultrasound. Once you see or hear it, your miscarriage risk drops to about 2 percent.

First Ultrasound ! The blueberry LOOKS GREAT!

2009-12-21T09:47:00.005-06:00

We are thrilled to report that our baby (that's singular!) looks great - heart rate was 137!!

I cried when wee one popped onto the screen! DH got a bit choked up he said. The docs thought all looks really good and released me to go to my regular OB/Gyn!!

At 7 weeks, it is the size of a blueberry. They said he/she is sitting upright facing left I think I see the little arm buds over on the left side too!!

Homemade Marshmallow follow-up. They are very very tasty! Pretty easy. The messiest part is cutting them up and coating them in powdered sugar.

First ultrasound is tomorrow

2009-12-20T06:06:00.001-06:00

Just over 24 hrs from now we'll have our first ultrasound. They got us in at 7:30 am. Gotta love the first appointment of the day. Please pray that we see a little blob and a heartbeat. I'm so nervous and so is DH. Without much more than some acid reflux and a general feeling that I've got some extra something in my lower abdominal area... I'm just worried that we're gonna get bad news. Trying to stay positive. If all is well tomorrow I think we'll begin telling more people after next weekend since most of our family will know by Dec 26th. We'll have the ultrasound done and feel better about things.

I think I'm going to try making homemade marshmallows today! I've been wanting to do this for a couple of years. I'll let you know how they turn out.

Cord Blood Banking

2009-12-18T14:08:00.001-06:00

Is anyone else thinking about doing cord blood banking? We are really considering this. I haven't read a lot about it, but we're particularly interested because we won't be genetically related to the child and therefore unlikely to be able to help the child if he/she becomes ill and needs some sort of donation to help cure them. It's not cheap, but it would be invaluable to the child if it becomes necessary.

I'd love to have your thoughts on it!