Every year Christmas comes and goes with great gifts, family time and lots of food, but I must say this year it is different. I'm not sure if it is the birth of my son or just part of my maturity as a person and as a disciple. This year Jesus is not just a part of Christmas...He IS Christmas to me! I have found my heart more joyful and more at peace...more thoughtful of those around me and more eager to show love. I have also thanked God more than ever before for the price he paid. I realize how great his love has to be to be willing to make such a sacrafice for us knowing most would likely never find the value in it. I have read scriptures like...
Romans 5:6-8 "You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."
and
Ephesians 2: 4-5 "But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved."
...and they have never meant what they mean to me today. That God would choose to live on earth with all of the sufferings that may and did entail is beyond my comprehension. That IS true love.
I am amazed again that he loves me like he does! Wow!!
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Christmas in AR
We arrived in Cleveland, AR (mom's house) on Christmas day in the afternoon. We enjoyed some time with mom and papa Ken. We have been running ever since trying to visit Matt's and my family here (in Conway). Dad is still in Kansas City (with his step kids), we have not seen him, and Ben is in Tulsa (with his inlaws). So, it has been a strange year to say the least. We have yet to open our Christmas gifts. Mom's house still looks like Christmas Eve, but we are being patient...SORT OF! I am thinking it's good that Eli is not old enough to know what he is waiting for or we would be in a great deal of hurt trying to get him to hold off on the presents!!
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Christmas in MO
Matt, Eli and I packed up and left New Orleans Friday night at 11 pm. Matt wanted to drive through the night so Eli wouldn't have to be fed. And so it was...He enjoyed listening to a book on tape (The Shack - very interesting, but not too accurate...but i guess i won't get into that right now). It seemed to be a good tool for keeping him awake. We arrived safely at Grandma Lois' house Saturday morning around 10 am. We enjoyed a quiet day with her. Sunday we fellowshipped with the Greater St. Louis Church. It was so good! We saw some faces we recognized and met some new friends (Leroy and Edna) who are working to befriend Matt's Grandma and get her out to church. Grandma had planned a party for us with the family on Sunday. It was so nice seeing everyone...most we hadn't seen since we got married (8.5 years ago). Eli met his little cousin Vincenzo (spell??). He is only a few months younger than Eli. It was so fun seeing them together. Tuesday, we visited Matt's Grandma and Grandpa Piazza. It was so nice getting back in touch with them and we have committed to continue that! I pray that we can build a positive relationship with them! We left St. Louis from there for Camdenton, MO where Matt's dad's side of the family was meeting. We enjoyed time with his aunts, uncles, cousins and grammy until Christmas, when we left for Arkansas...
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Weekend in Galveston
i am getting back into the swing of things after a weekend away serving in Galveston. it was really nice to get away and do some hard work for someone in need. we (Emanda, Dinah, Tammica, Frank and I and some Houston church members) served by gutting the home of a man and wife who have not only lost most of their earthly possessions, but were also dealing with the husband's lung cancer. it was so amazing how impacted and encouraged the family was by our service...i was just thinking that even once we leave they still have such a long way to go! i can't imagine being in that position. i am praying that things really go smoothly from here for them. they have a long road ahead of them.
some of our groups cleaned out garages, tore up floors and even folded laundry! it was so refreshing to be serving with disciples. we were able to stay together and have meals and evenings playing cards and singing and talking. it was incredible! i made some new friends (which was my goal) and left really feeling refreshed and ready to do all that God has for me to do.
matt did well with eli. he had support available, but made it ok with him and one of the single brothers, Ben. it was so good for him to be mommy for a minute! especially since i will be leaving on a cruise at the beginning of december and he will be here alone with him for a few days. SCARY!
some of our groups cleaned out garages, tore up floors and even folded laundry! it was so refreshing to be serving with disciples. we were able to stay together and have meals and evenings playing cards and singing and talking. it was incredible! i made some new friends (which was my goal) and left really feeling refreshed and ready to do all that God has for me to do.
matt did well with eli. he had support available, but made it ok with him and one of the single brothers, Ben. it was so good for him to be mommy for a minute! especially since i will be leaving on a cruise at the beginning of december and he will be here alone with him for a few days. SCARY!
Monday, November 3, 2008
Little Monster
halloween was great. we ended up having a going away event for a friend, nikki. we enjoyed pumpkin pie, candied apples and witches brew! it was wonderful. eli dressed up as karate kid (bc that was his first movie). he was adorable.
our life is changing. in the blink of an eye, eli is almost 5 months. between teething and growing he is almost always needing something. i am more than busy to say the least.
we are just now returning from a quick trip to florida to visit and say goodbye to some friends/family (graham and christine parker) as they are being relocated (again). it was a bitter, sweet affair...saying goodbye is never fun, but they are really moving to a better place and we are so excited to see what God has in store for them! eli so enjoyed spending time with their son and daughter. he got gagged by a halloween toy and enjoyed some cracker while we weren't looking. it was a very eventful time for him! :o)
matt and i are pushing through our own life challenges. satan is always on the prowl...looking to devour us all (I Pe 5:8). but we are fighting and "running the race" with all our might.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Life at Home
Eli is becoming his own little person. We are trying to enjoy every moment! We went to the ped on Saturday and he is weighing 15 lb. 1 oz. He has been sick for almost a week with a cold. I am sick too...which really complicates things. I am really learning self sacrafice. Especially in the middle of the night when Eli needs love and I need sleep!
The house is coming together finally. I am trying to focus on finishing the painting and trim by the end of the month. I really don't have too much left. I just need to trim out the front room and paint the hall and kitchen.
Contentment has been an issue. It is funny that this comes after this long awaited time in life. My hormones have been a bit wacky and I'm having to get some help with that. Being a mommy is a lot of work!! On top of it all I'm having this hormone issue (which I'm sure most moms have after such a hormonal time). But I'm making it with prayer and lots of friend talk time!
Phil 4:11-13 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
I Tim 6:6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Our Life
It has been forever since I had time to get on to blog. Here's the scoop. Eli came home after 16 days in NICU. He has been thriving ever since. In fact, we went to his pediatrician a couple of weeks ago and he was 12 lbs 12 oz. The dr. said it would be ok with him if we backed off on the food...No force feeding! He is smiling and cooing. He even laughed at me today! He loves looking at his toys! and it is so precious because he knows Matt and my voices and faces and when we come in the room he looks for us! He loves his daddy! They have a special sitting position that makes him happy and with mommy it's a hold that Barb taught me!
Being a mom is a whole new life! it makes everything so different and wonderful! I want to be the best! so send your advice.
We have been using the "Baby Wise System". Eli thrives on his schedule. Last night was his first night to sleep 7 hours! I was WONDERFUL!!
Well, I better get busy being a mom and wife again! Too much to do...Too little time!
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Eli's Birthday
"For this child I prayed; and the LORD hath given me my petition which I asked of him." I Samuel 1:27
The long awaited day has arrived. Our baby, Charles Elisha Atkins (Eli) was born today at 6:11 a.m. He weighs 4 lb. 4.5 oz. and is 17.5 in. long. What an amazing day!!
I met with my doctors yesterday and everyone predicted I would go to term (37 weeks), but Eli wasn't waiting any longer!! Here's what happened...
We went to bed early because Matt had to be up at 4 am for a trip for work the next morning. At around 1:30 am. The contractions started, but I didn't believe it because I had just seen the dr. that day! I went back to bed thinking it was nothing and I didn't want to bother Matt with the whole thing unless it was the real thing because he had to be up so early for work. Finally, after waiting through 1 hour and 3 2 minute contractions I decided I was really having a baby! so, we were off to the hospital.
We arrived and walked to labor and delivery (which must be half a mile from the parking structure, no kidding!!). They did the normal check you out and make sure you are actually having a baby. After some time, they decided I was in labor and they would need to cut the stitch. They called Dr. Morris. While the resident was on the phone with him the baby's hear rate dropped to 80 (it should stay around 140-150). So she got of the phone REALLY quick and started flipping me from side to side until his heart was back up. After the big scare, they cut the stitch and we were on our way...my cervix was at 10 around 6 am and they set me up in the o.r. because Eli was coming early and they wanted to take every precaution. At this point Miss Tracy, Matt and I had about 1 minute to pray. My only request was that Eli would come into this world screaming...and that he did..After 3 pushes and 10 minutes he was here and Miss Tracy could hear him screaming across the hall. :o) God is so Good!!!!
The nurses quickly wisked him away to NICU and we were not able to see him for a few hours. When we went to meet our son, we found out that he was 4 lbs and 4.5 oz and 17.5 in long.
He was so sweet with tube coming out of what seemed like EVERYWHERE!! He had a nasal canula (with forced room air no oxygen), an iv for vitamins and a feeding tube in his throat because he could not yet suck. I was able to hold him when they found him to be stable that afternoon! It was so incredible!
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
My Last Specialist Appointment
It was my last meeting with the Specialist (Dr. Longo) today because we have made it to almost 34 weeks and statistics show that a 34 week baby fares the same as a 40 week baby in every area of development. Everything seems to be going as planned. In fact, she is hopeful that I will make it to term. My cervix is still just under a cm and holding and it doesn't appear to be changing under pressure (simulating contractions). I saw Dr. Morris today as well and he said basically the same thing..no sign of labor and minimal dialation, which is to be expected at this juncture. Baby is growing and looking good and I am feeling great! Not a lot to report! Thank God for good news!!
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Week 33
From my weekly Email...
Wow! Look where we are!! Words cannot express my joy and gratefulness!! I am finally beginning to enjoy my pregnancy and be excited about the days to come. Matt and I have started getting Eli's room ready (with the help of our dear friends Frank and Tammica, without whom we would still be in the same place we were last week!!). and Mom, who gifted us with his amazing bedding...It is so beautiful with such bright and brilliant colors!! We are having trouble picking one to paint the room...Matt has decided we will paint the room 3 of the colors. I'm not so sure about that. We'll see!
We took a baby care class this week. We learned so much about how the hospital cares for the baby at birth and so on...and how we will care for him later! It was a really great class and I think we both learned some great stuff! I guess we will start looking for a pediatrician...We have not quite gotten that far, but we know the clinic we will use...It's just finding a dr. from there.
My belly is steadily getting bigger!! and Eli is getting stronger! Today is my last day at work and then it's homebound...trying to rest and prepare (not sure that I can do both at the same time, but we'll see). Mom should be in town 6/5 for my shower on 6/8. I am sure her visit will get us ahead of the game. We are planning on getting everything together for the baby's room and all while she is here! and shopping!! Double YEAY!
I guess that about sums it up this week. I will be seeing both doctors on the 4th...So, next week, we should be getting more info on the condition of my cervix!
I'll keep you posted!
How your baby's growing:
This week your baby weighs a little over 4 pounds (heft a pineapple) and has passed the 17-inch mark. He's rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look and his skeleton is hardening. The bones in his skull aren't fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for him to fit through the birth canal. (The pressure on the head during birth is so intense that many babies are born with a conehead-like appearance.) These bones don't entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as his brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.
Wow! Look where we are!! Words cannot express my joy and gratefulness!! I am finally beginning to enjoy my pregnancy and be excited about the days to come. Matt and I have started getting Eli's room ready (with the help of our dear friends Frank and Tammica, without whom we would still be in the same place we were last week!!). and Mom, who gifted us with his amazing bedding...It is so beautiful with such bright and brilliant colors!! We are having trouble picking one to paint the room...Matt has decided we will paint the room 3 of the colors. I'm not so sure about that. We'll see!
We took a baby care class this week. We learned so much about how the hospital cares for the baby at birth and so on...and how we will care for him later! It was a really great class and I think we both learned some great stuff! I guess we will start looking for a pediatrician...We have not quite gotten that far, but we know the clinic we will use...It's just finding a dr. from there.
My belly is steadily getting bigger!! and Eli is getting stronger! Today is my last day at work and then it's homebound...trying to rest and prepare (not sure that I can do both at the same time, but we'll see). Mom should be in town 6/5 for my shower on 6/8. I am sure her visit will get us ahead of the game. We are planning on getting everything together for the baby's room and all while she is here! and shopping!! Double YEAY!
I guess that about sums it up this week. I will be seeing both doctors on the 4th...So, next week, we should be getting more info on the condition of my cervix!
I'll keep you posted!
How your baby's growing:
This week your baby weighs a little over 4 pounds (heft a pineapple) and has passed the 17-inch mark. He's rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look and his skeleton is hardening. The bones in his skull aren't fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for him to fit through the birth canal. (The pressure on the head during birth is so intense that many babies are born with a conehead-like appearance.) These bones don't entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as his brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.
Week 33
From my weekly Email...
Wow! Look where we are!! Words cannot express my joy and gratefulness!! I am finally beginning to enjoy my pregnancy and be excited about the days to come. Matt and I have started getting Eli's room ready (with the help of our dear friends Frank and Tammica, without whom we would still be in the same place we were last week!!). and Mom, who gifted us with his amazing bedding...It is so beautiful with such bright and brilliant colors!! We are having trouble picking one to paint the room...Matt has decided we will paint the room 3 of the colors. I'm not so sure about that. We'll see!
We took a baby care class this week. We learned so much about how the hospital cares for the baby at birth and so on...and how we will care for him later! It was a really great class and I think we both learned some great stuff! I guess we will start looking for a pediatrician...We have not quite gotten that far, but we know the clinic we will use...It's just finding a dr. from there.
My belly is steadily getting bigger!! and Eli is getting stronger! Today is my last day at work and then it's homebound...trying to rest and prepare (not sure that I can do both at the same time, but we'll see). Mom should be in town 6/5 for my shower on 6/8. I am sure her visit will get us ahead of the game. We are planning on getting everything together for the baby's room and all while she is here! and shopping!! Double YEAY!
I guess that about sums it up this week. I will be seeing both doctors on the 4th...So, next week, we should be getting more info on the condition of my cervix!
I'll keep you posted!
How your baby's growing:
This week your baby weighs a little over 4 pounds (heft a pineapple) and has passed the 17-inch mark. He's rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look and his skeleton is hardening. The bones in his skull aren't fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for him to fit through the birth canal. (The pressure on the head during birth is so intense that many babies are born with a conehead-like appearance.) These bones don't entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as his brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.
Wow! Look where we are!! Words cannot express my joy and gratefulness!! I am finally beginning to enjoy my pregnancy and be excited about the days to come. Matt and I have started getting Eli's room ready (with the help of our dear friends Frank and Tammica, without whom we would still be in the same place we were last week!!). and Mom, who gifted us with his amazing bedding...It is so beautiful with such bright and brilliant colors!! We are having trouble picking one to paint the room...Matt has decided we will paint the room 3 of the colors. I'm not so sure about that. We'll see!
We took a baby care class this week. We learned so much about how the hospital cares for the baby at birth and so on...and how we will care for him later! It was a really great class and I think we both learned some great stuff! I guess we will start looking for a pediatrician...We have not quite gotten that far, but we know the clinic we will use...It's just finding a dr. from there.
My belly is steadily getting bigger!! and Eli is getting stronger! Today is my last day at work and then it's homebound...trying to rest and prepare (not sure that I can do both at the same time, but we'll see). Mom should be in town 6/5 for my shower on 6/8. I am sure her visit will get us ahead of the game. We are planning on getting everything together for the baby's room and all while she is here! and shopping!! Double YEAY!
I guess that about sums it up this week. I will be seeing both doctors on the 4th...So, next week, we should be getting more info on the condition of my cervix!
I'll keep you posted!
How your baby's growing:
This week your baby weighs a little over 4 pounds (heft a pineapple) and has passed the 17-inch mark. He's rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look and his skeleton is hardening. The bones in his skull aren't fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for him to fit through the birth canal. (The pressure on the head during birth is so intense that many babies are born with a conehead-like appearance.) These bones don't entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as his brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Week 32
From my Weekly Email...
What a wild week!! My replacement started Tues. So, work at the office has been CRAZY!! and on top of that, we have had all these "fire drill" projects situations!! So, I have been working late quite a bit..and with Eli getting bigger...Working late is getting HARDER!! But I have survived!
I went to the specialist on Tues and we found that my cervix is shortening more. I am around 1.3 cm total...7cm between baby and stitch. His little head was so close to my stitch that when she went in to scan she said "Whoa! There's his head!!" I also saw Dr. Morris on Wed and he says that I am effacing and have been since my last visit 2 weeks ago and I am likely (slowly) losing my mucus plug (hope that doesn't gross anyone out!!). Basically, I could go into labor any day...or I could go 6 more weeks..we just don't know!! We are 2 weeks shy of our goal of 34 weeks!! So, pray pray pray that we can get there...and everything after that is icing! :) But Dr. Morris says everything after now is icing! So, he is very happy that we have made it this far and is so happy that we are still going! I am having some "false labor", but it hasn't been painful...
I guess that about summs it up!
Matt and I are well..We really need to get our nursery together!! Any volunteers??
Hugs to all! ash
How your baby's growing:
By now, your baby weighs 3.75 pounds (pick up a large jicama) and is about 16.7 inches long, taking up a lot of space in your uterus. You're gaining about a pound a week and roughly half of that goes right to your baby. In fact, she'll gain a third to half of her birth weight during the next 7 weeks as she fattens up for survival outside the womb. She now has toenails, fingernails, and real hair (or at least respectable peach fuzz). Her skin is becoming soft and smooth as she plumps up in preparation for birth.
What a wild week!! My replacement started Tues. So, work at the office has been CRAZY!! and on top of that, we have had all these "fire drill" projects situations!! So, I have been working late quite a bit..and with Eli getting bigger...Working late is getting HARDER!! But I have survived!
I went to the specialist on Tues and we found that my cervix is shortening more. I am around 1.3 cm total...7cm between baby and stitch. His little head was so close to my stitch that when she went in to scan she said "Whoa! There's his head!!" I also saw Dr. Morris on Wed and he says that I am effacing and have been since my last visit 2 weeks ago and I am likely (slowly) losing my mucus plug (hope that doesn't gross anyone out!!). Basically, I could go into labor any day...or I could go 6 more weeks..we just don't know!! We are 2 weeks shy of our goal of 34 weeks!! So, pray pray pray that we can get there...and everything after that is icing! :) But Dr. Morris says everything after now is icing! So, he is very happy that we have made it this far and is so happy that we are still going! I am having some "false labor", but it hasn't been painful...
I guess that about summs it up!
Matt and I are well..We really need to get our nursery together!! Any volunteers??
Hugs to all! ash
How your baby's growing:
By now, your baby weighs 3.75 pounds (pick up a large jicama) and is about 16.7 inches long, taking up a lot of space in your uterus. You're gaining about a pound a week and roughly half of that goes right to your baby. In fact, she'll gain a third to half of her birth weight during the next 7 weeks as she fattens up for survival outside the womb. She now has toenails, fingernails, and real hair (or at least respectable peach fuzz). Her skin is becoming soft and smooth as she plumps up in preparation for birth.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Week 30
From my weekly email...
Ok. I'm not sure why this email came late last week, but here it is as promised in my last email.
My doctors appointment went perfect on Thursday. My cervix is short, but we lost no length.
They did what they call a "growth scan" and found that Eli weighs 3lb. 2oz. Everything measured out in the 50th percentile, which means he is an average sized boy! YEAY! Things are looking great! I will continue to keep you posted on our progress.
Hugs! Ash
How your baby's growing:
Your baby's about 15.7 inches long now, and she weighs almost 3 pounds (like a head of cabbage). A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds her, but that volume will decrease as she gets bigger and takes up more room in your uterus. Her eyesight continues to develop, though it's not very keen; even after she's born, she'll keep her eyes closed for a good part of the day. When she does open them, she'll respond to changes in light but will have 20/400 vision — which means she can only make out objects a few inches from her face. (Normal adult vision is 20/20.)
Ok. I'm not sure why this email came late last week, but here it is as promised in my last email.
My doctors appointment went perfect on Thursday. My cervix is short, but we lost no length.
They did what they call a "growth scan" and found that Eli weighs 3lb. 2oz. Everything measured out in the 50th percentile, which means he is an average sized boy! YEAY! Things are looking great! I will continue to keep you posted on our progress.
Hugs! Ash
How your baby's growing:
Your baby's about 15.7 inches long now, and she weighs almost 3 pounds (like a head of cabbage). A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds her, but that volume will decrease as she gets bigger and takes up more room in your uterus. Her eyesight continues to develop, though it's not very keen; even after she's born, she'll keep her eyes closed for a good part of the day. When she does open them, she'll respond to changes in light but will have 20/400 vision — which means she can only make out objects a few inches from her face. (Normal adult vision is 20/20.)
My Replacement
oh the pains of finding employees. i spent my day yesterday training up a young man to take my position at work. he really seemed to suit the job well and i was really excited about him. well, today, i came in to work only to find out that he quit!!! i am so disappointed!! i don't know if i scared him away or what, but he is gone! oh well!! back to the drawing board!
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Week 30
From my weekly email...
I got flowers today...World's Best Mom!! Happy Mother's day to me!! :)
I'm not sure why, but baby.com didn't send the weekly update. i will forward it when i receive it.
The news for now is about the same. Dr. Morris says baby eli is growing (he says he is big...scary!!). Your uterus should measure around the same length as the number of weeks you are...So, a 28 week baby measures 28cm, but Eli is measuring 31 this week...So, he's not too far ahead of the curve, but he is a little bigger than average! Imagine that with Matt for a dad!! And as far as the doctor can tell (without an ultrasound) my cervix is about the same as 2 weeks ago. I will have an ultrasound today and find out exactly where we are with that. Of course, we are not wanting any changes because we are still trying to avoid "bed rest". I put it in quotations because it is not true bed rest any more. The specialist tells me that it is more like decreased activity with extra time in bed...because of the risk of blood clots. I am feeling good...It feels like a bowling ball is on my bladder/hips, but other than that discomfort and some punches in the gut...i'm well. I have to coax him out from under my ribs sometimes and that is fun, but again, for the most part, i have no complaints!
Also, I have to share a short story...I wore the dress yesterday that I wore the day I lost Judah...I always think of how confident I felt as I put it on that morning going to find out the sex of my baby...and then how empty I felt wearing it as I left the hospital a couple of days later (leaving in maternity wear was heart breaking). As I left the hospital that day, the pianist was playing "Smile". It is one of my favorite songs and now it holds such a special meaning to me...as it is Judah's song. Believe it or not, the same pianist was playing Judah's song as I came off the elevator at the hospital in Judah's dress yesterday. I could do nothing but cry. And when he was finished I walked over and gave him a hug and a big thank you! I shared with him how special that song had become to me...and what it meant to hear it now as I am expecting to take my little boy home with me. He told me to bring my Eli back and he would be happy to play it for us! :) That really meant the world to me!
Well, I hope you have all enjoyed my trip down memory lane! I am so thankful that each of you take the time to read my "baby" notes!
I love you all dearly!
ash
I got flowers today...World's Best Mom!! Happy Mother's day to me!! :)
I'm not sure why, but baby.com didn't send the weekly update. i will forward it when i receive it.
The news for now is about the same. Dr. Morris says baby eli is growing (he says he is big...scary!!). Your uterus should measure around the same length as the number of weeks you are...So, a 28 week baby measures 28cm, but Eli is measuring 31 this week...So, he's not too far ahead of the curve, but he is a little bigger than average! Imagine that with Matt for a dad!! And as far as the doctor can tell (without an ultrasound) my cervix is about the same as 2 weeks ago. I will have an ultrasound today and find out exactly where we are with that. Of course, we are not wanting any changes because we are still trying to avoid "bed rest". I put it in quotations because it is not true bed rest any more. The specialist tells me that it is more like decreased activity with extra time in bed...because of the risk of blood clots. I am feeling good...It feels like a bowling ball is on my bladder/hips, but other than that discomfort and some punches in the gut...i'm well. I have to coax him out from under my ribs sometimes and that is fun, but again, for the most part, i have no complaints!
Also, I have to share a short story...I wore the dress yesterday that I wore the day I lost Judah...I always think of how confident I felt as I put it on that morning going to find out the sex of my baby...and then how empty I felt wearing it as I left the hospital a couple of days later (leaving in maternity wear was heart breaking). As I left the hospital that day, the pianist was playing "Smile". It is one of my favorite songs and now it holds such a special meaning to me...as it is Judah's song. Believe it or not, the same pianist was playing Judah's song as I came off the elevator at the hospital in Judah's dress yesterday. I could do nothing but cry. And when he was finished I walked over and gave him a hug and a big thank you! I shared with him how special that song had become to me...and what it meant to hear it now as I am expecting to take my little boy home with me. He told me to bring my Eli back and he would be happy to play it for us! :) That really meant the world to me!
Well, I hope you have all enjoyed my trip down memory lane! I am so thankful that each of you take the time to read my "baby" notes!
I love you all dearly!
ash
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Week 29
From my weekly email...
What a week! Not a lot of news to report...I'm feeling ok. The discomfort has graduated to pain at times, but I'm hanging in there and trying not to overreact! I did not see the doctor this week...So, no news on my cervix or baby.
My office is working on finding my replacement. He/She should start next week. This will give me a month to train them (God willing)!
We had to cancel our trip to Arkansas for baby showers. :( That was tough. But we will bring Eli up when he is ready and have a "birthday" party of sorts. We are so looking forward to all of you meeting him!!
He has been so active...especially at night! It is almost like when I lay down he thinks it's time to play! Matt got to feel his little kicks last week! That was so fun and exciting!!
Things are trucking along! Thank you for your thoughts and prayers! We know God is taking care of us! What a comfort!!
We love you all! ash
How your baby's growing:
Your baby now weighs about 2 1/2 pounds (like a butternut squash) and is a tad over 15 inches long from head to heel. His muscles and lungs are continuing to mature, and his head is growing bigger to make room for his developing brain. To meet his increasing nutritional demands, you'll need plenty of protein, vitamins C, folic acid, and iron. And because his bones are soaking up lots of calcium, be sure to drink your milk (or find another good source of calcium, such as cheese, yogurt, or enriched orange juice). This trimester, about 250 milligrams of calcium are deposited in your baby's hardening skeleton each day.
What a week! Not a lot of news to report...I'm feeling ok. The discomfort has graduated to pain at times, but I'm hanging in there and trying not to overreact! I did not see the doctor this week...So, no news on my cervix or baby.
My office is working on finding my replacement. He/She should start next week. This will give me a month to train them (God willing)!
We had to cancel our trip to Arkansas for baby showers. :( That was tough. But we will bring Eli up when he is ready and have a "birthday" party of sorts. We are so looking forward to all of you meeting him!!
He has been so active...especially at night! It is almost like when I lay down he thinks it's time to play! Matt got to feel his little kicks last week! That was so fun and exciting!!
Things are trucking along! Thank you for your thoughts and prayers! We know God is taking care of us! What a comfort!!
We love you all! ash
How your baby's growing:
Your baby now weighs about 2 1/2 pounds (like a butternut squash) and is a tad over 15 inches long from head to heel. His muscles and lungs are continuing to mature, and his head is growing bigger to make room for his developing brain. To meet his increasing nutritional demands, you'll need plenty of protein, vitamins C, folic acid, and iron. And because his bones are soaking up lots of calcium, be sure to drink your milk (or find another good source of calcium, such as cheese, yogurt, or enriched orange juice). This trimester, about 250 milligrams of calcium are deposited in your baby's hardening skeleton each day.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
A time to uproot...
Ecclesiastes 3:1-2
"There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under heaven:
a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot"
Well, that time is approaching!! We are officially looking for someone to take my place at work. Matt and I decided years ago that I would stay home with our children and it is so exciting to be approaching that task!! My last day will be at the end of May (God willing)...and my bosses want someone to start a month before I leave...so, we are currently in the interviewing process. It's kind of humbling knowing that these talented, educated people are interviewing to take my place!! It makes me think that when I leave they will all be like, "what was she doing here??". hehehe. I have so enjoyed working in this office and it's going to be really hard to move on, but so exciting to be turning the page! I think back on the last couple of years and thank God for a time of peace and progress! Working here has helped me in many ways! and I will carry away some very happy memories away from this great place!! :)
Eli and I are good. I have been feeling some growing pains...and he is really not interested in sleeping at night, but things are going so well!! and what a blessing to feel him wiggle and kick!! :) In fact, Saturday night was Matt's first time to feel him kick! It was so exciting!! We are so excited!!
"There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under heaven:
a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot"
Well, that time is approaching!! We are officially looking for someone to take my place at work. Matt and I decided years ago that I would stay home with our children and it is so exciting to be approaching that task!! My last day will be at the end of May (God willing)...and my bosses want someone to start a month before I leave...so, we are currently in the interviewing process. It's kind of humbling knowing that these talented, educated people are interviewing to take my place!! It makes me think that when I leave they will all be like, "what was she doing here??". hehehe. I have so enjoyed working in this office and it's going to be really hard to move on, but so exciting to be turning the page! I think back on the last couple of years and thank God for a time of peace and progress! Working here has helped me in many ways! and I will carry away some very happy memories away from this great place!! :)
Eli and I are good. I have been feeling some growing pains...and he is really not interested in sleeping at night, but things are going so well!! and what a blessing to feel him wiggle and kick!! :) In fact, Saturday night was Matt's first time to feel him kick! It was so exciting!! We are so excited!!
Friday, April 25, 2008
Week 28
From my weekly email...
Sorry for the delay in getting this email out. It has been a tough week. We went in last Thursday to meet with the specialist only to find that we have started down that slippery slope of my cervix giving way and the possibility of labor and delivery coming a bit early. This is something the doctors have been waiting for. They remind me that I do have an incompetent cervix and this is what happens when you have that medical condition. The great news is that I am greater than 28 weeks...which means, if our little boy were born today he would live. He would have to spend some extra time in the hospital, but we have passed 100% survivability. For now, we are praying for 34 weeks to come quickly. We would be so pleased if God would keep him tucked away until then as that brings a "full term" baby. Please pray with us that we can have a fully developed baby boy...that his lungs and blood vessels will be ready for this world! He is hanging on for now...and I am not in labor (thank God!!)...So, for now, we wait to see what God's plan is (Jeremiah 29:11-13) because we are convinced his plan is perfect!! Please pray with us as we wait (holding our breath!)!
All our love! Ash
How your baby's growing:
By this week, your baby weighs two and a quarter pounds (like a Chinese cabbage) and measures 14.8 inches from the top of her head to her heels. She can blink her eyes, which now sport lashes. With her eyesight developing, she may be able to see the light that filters in through your womb. She's also developing billions of neurons in her brain and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world.
Sorry for the delay in getting this email out. It has been a tough week. We went in last Thursday to meet with the specialist only to find that we have started down that slippery slope of my cervix giving way and the possibility of labor and delivery coming a bit early. This is something the doctors have been waiting for. They remind me that I do have an incompetent cervix and this is what happens when you have that medical condition. The great news is that I am greater than 28 weeks...which means, if our little boy were born today he would live. He would have to spend some extra time in the hospital, but we have passed 100% survivability. For now, we are praying for 34 weeks to come quickly. We would be so pleased if God would keep him tucked away until then as that brings a "full term" baby. Please pray with us that we can have a fully developed baby boy...that his lungs and blood vessels will be ready for this world! He is hanging on for now...and I am not in labor (thank God!!)...So, for now, we wait to see what God's plan is (Jeremiah 29:11-13) because we are convinced his plan is perfect!! Please pray with us as we wait (holding our breath!)!
All our love! Ash
How your baby's growing:
By this week, your baby weighs two and a quarter pounds (like a Chinese cabbage) and measures 14.8 inches from the top of her head to her heels. She can blink her eyes, which now sport lashes. With her eyesight developing, she may be able to see the light that filters in through your womb. She's also developing billions of neurons in her brain and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
cough, cough, cough!!
OMIGOODNESS!! I have been so sick this week! I went in to have my glucose test last Monday...and I FAILED! So, I had to go in on Tuesday for the full work-up...I passed! Thank God!! but in the process I picked up a virus from one of the trillion people who was waiting with me at the hospital!! GRRRR!!! So, after a week of coughing and sick sick I am back to work! It has been rough! My abdominals have never been so sore!! :( I went in to meet with the dr. on Monday and everything looks ok with my cervix/stitch and the baby...and I should recover nicely with rest! So, that is good news! No need to take any dangerous medicine to get better!! YEAY! On the bright side, I got a lot of reading in and some stamping too!! :) So, I am ready to get back to work!
Friday, April 18, 2008
Week 27
From my weekly email...
Hi All. It has been a stressful week for me. My meeting with the specialist last Thursday brought less than perfect results on the length of my cervix. I lost 1.5cm in 2 weeks. The blessing is that my cervix was so long that losing 1.5cm wasn't that big of a deal. The specialist is still very optimistic that I will carry to 34 weeks, which will bring a "full term" baby with no need for NICU. So, even though it was a trying week, we are still in good shape! and everything is looking good.
Please continue keeping us in your prayers. We are feeling confident, but cautious!
Your pregnancy: 27 weeks
How your baby's growing:
This week your baby weighs almost 2 pounds (like a head of cauliflower) and is about 14.4 inches long with his legs extended. He can now open and close his eyes, and he sleeps and wakes at regular intervals. He may suck his fingers, and although his lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning — with assistance — if he were to be born prematurely. Chalk up any rhythmic movement you may be feeling to a case of baby hiccups, which may be common from now on. Each episode usually lasts only a few moments, and isn't bothersome to him, so enjoy the tickle. With more brain tissue developing, your baby's brain is very active now. Wonder what he's thinking?
Hi All. It has been a stressful week for me. My meeting with the specialist last Thursday brought less than perfect results on the length of my cervix. I lost 1.5cm in 2 weeks. The blessing is that my cervix was so long that losing 1.5cm wasn't that big of a deal. The specialist is still very optimistic that I will carry to 34 weeks, which will bring a "full term" baby with no need for NICU. So, even though it was a trying week, we are still in good shape! and everything is looking good.
Please continue keeping us in your prayers. We are feeling confident, but cautious!
Your pregnancy: 27 weeks
How your baby's growing:
This week your baby weighs almost 2 pounds (like a head of cauliflower) and is about 14.4 inches long with his legs extended. He can now open and close his eyes, and he sleeps and wakes at regular intervals. He may suck his fingers, and although his lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning — with assistance — if he were to be born prematurely. Chalk up any rhythmic movement you may be feeling to a case of baby hiccups, which may be common from now on. Each episode usually lasts only a few moments, and isn't bothersome to him, so enjoy the tickle. With more brain tissue developing, your baby's brain is very active now. Wonder what he's thinking?
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Week 26
From my weekly email...
Hi all! I am happy to report, it has been a great week! Baby Eli is growing and moving! I am actually beginning to feel defined movements from him...like a kick or stretch. I can't see bumps where his little hands and feet push out on my belly yet, but I can tell it is approaching! I am feeling good! Just having some really bad leg cramps at night and some back pain, but those are my only real complaints! The doctor is happy with my progress and will continue monitoring me every other week. Today I will take Matt's mom and grandma to the specialist with me to see the ultrasound! They are so excited! They are here enjoying New Orleans today. I sent them off on the trolley this morning to tour the city! I will be working until 2 or so, when we go to the dr. I have notified work that I will be leaving after baby! It feels so good to know I can be home with him! So, things are going to get hectic around here in preparation of me leaving...as our senior employee at that point will have been here since August 2007. ash
How your baby's growing:
Your baby now weighs about a pound and two-thirds and measures 14 inches (an English hothouse cucumber), from head to heel. The nerve pathways in her ears are developing, which means her response to sounds is growing more consistent. Her lungs are developing now, too, as she continues to take small breaths of amniotic fluid — good practice for when she's born and takes that first breath of air. If you're having a boy, his testicles are beginning to descend into his scrotum — a trip that will take about two to three days.
Hi all! I am happy to report, it has been a great week! Baby Eli is growing and moving! I am actually beginning to feel defined movements from him...like a kick or stretch. I can't see bumps where his little hands and feet push out on my belly yet, but I can tell it is approaching! I am feeling good! Just having some really bad leg cramps at night and some back pain, but those are my only real complaints! The doctor is happy with my progress and will continue monitoring me every other week. Today I will take Matt's mom and grandma to the specialist with me to see the ultrasound! They are so excited! They are here enjoying New Orleans today. I sent them off on the trolley this morning to tour the city! I will be working until 2 or so, when we go to the dr. I have notified work that I will be leaving after baby! It feels so good to know I can be home with him! So, things are going to get hectic around here in preparation of me leaving...as our senior employee at that point will have been here since August 2007. ash
How your baby's growing:
Your baby now weighs about a pound and two-thirds and measures 14 inches (an English hothouse cucumber), from head to heel. The nerve pathways in her ears are developing, which means her response to sounds is growing more consistent. Her lungs are developing now, too, as she continues to take small breaths of amniotic fluid — good practice for when she's born and takes that first breath of air. If you're having a boy, his testicles are beginning to descend into his scrotum — a trip that will take about two to three days.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Week 24
From my weekly email...
Hi all! Eli is in his 24th week! It has been such an exciting journey. I visit the doctor every other week...if not every week!! He is healthy and well, and my cervix is holding up perfectly!! I am so thankful!! This week I saw the Nurse Practitioner, since Dr. Morris was out of town. She did a new test to check for preterm labor called Fetal Fibronectin (more info at http://www.babycenter.com/0_preterm-labor-test-fetal-fibronectin_1511.bc). It was negative for any signs of preterm labor, which means we can rest easy for another couple of weeks knowing that labor is not expected!! I will go back in every two weeks for this test until I pass 34 weeks or so (I'm guessing). On Thursday, I went in for my biweekly cervix scan and everything looked great. The gal even did an additional scan of the baby...because she had a student with her. It was so encouraging to see him again!! :) Everything is looking great! I will continue keeping you all posted!!
Love, ash
How your baby's growing:
Your baby's growing steadily, gaining about a quarter of a pound since last week, when she was just over a pound. Since she's almost a foot long (picture an ear of corn), that makes a pretty lean figure, but her body is filling out proportionally and she'll soon put on more baby fat. Your baby's skin is thin, translucent, and wrinkled, her brain is growing rapidly, and her taste buds are developing. Her lungs are developing "branches" of the respiratory "tree" and cells that produce surfactant, a substance **that helps the air sacs inflate easily.
Hi all! Eli is in his 24th week! It has been such an exciting journey. I visit the doctor every other week...if not every week!! He is healthy and well, and my cervix is holding up perfectly!! I am so thankful!! This week I saw the Nurse Practitioner, since Dr. Morris was out of town. She did a new test to check for preterm labor called Fetal Fibronectin (more info at http://www.babycenter.com/0_preterm-labor-test-fetal-fibronectin_1511.bc). It was negative for any signs of preterm labor, which means we can rest easy for another couple of weeks knowing that labor is not expected!! I will go back in every two weeks for this test until I pass 34 weeks or so (I'm guessing). On Thursday, I went in for my biweekly cervix scan and everything looked great. The gal even did an additional scan of the baby...because she had a student with her. It was so encouraging to see him again!! :) Everything is looking great! I will continue keeping you all posted!!
Love, ash
How your baby's growing:
Your baby's growing steadily, gaining about a quarter of a pound since last week, when she was just over a pound. Since she's almost a foot long (picture an ear of corn), that makes a pretty lean figure, but her body is filling out proportionally and she'll soon put on more baby fat. Your baby's skin is thin, translucent, and wrinkled, her brain is growing rapidly, and her taste buds are developing. Her lungs are developing "branches" of the respiratory "tree" and cells that produce surfactant, a substance **that helps the air sacs inflate easily.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Week 23
I can breathe a sigh of relief this week because Eli is a viable baby...Now, don't get me wrong, we have not passed the point of certain viability, but the beginning of viability is today!! In the last week or two I have been feeling more peaceful and calm. God has been so faithful....Every doctor visit has brought good news of a long cervix and healthy baby...Which, of course, makes me feel more at ease. Eli is growing at the normal rate...they expect him to be a normal sized baby...We'll see...With a dad the size of Matt I'm in for a treat!! I am feeling great!! My lower back has been hurting the last few days, but I'm just taking it easy and taking Tylenol as needed. Overall, I can't complain! He is wiggling and moving some...but mostly sleeping!! :) I'm so excited!
My Weekly Email
It has been an uneventful week...Thank GOD!! My baby boy is active and happy. He responds to the sound of our voices...especially when we sing! He loves Sunday because he hears singing and goes CRAZY!! Thank you for your prayers! God is so faithful and will continue to be! We are enjoying peace and trying to be patient!
Love you all!! ash
How your baby's growing:
Your baby is more than 11 inches long and weighs just over a pound (about as much as a large mango). His skin is red and wrinkled. Blood vessels in his lungs are developing to prepare him for breathing. He can swallow, but he normally won't pass his first stool (called meconium) until after birth. Loud noises heard often in utero — such as your dog barking or the roar of a vacuum cleaner — probably won't faze your baby when he hears them outside the womb.
My Weekly Email
It has been an uneventful week...Thank GOD!! My baby boy is active and happy. He responds to the sound of our voices...especially when we sing! He loves Sunday because he hears singing and goes CRAZY!! Thank you for your prayers! God is so faithful and will continue to be! We are enjoying peace and trying to be patient!
Love you all!! ash
How your baby's growing:
Your baby is more than 11 inches long and weighs just over a pound (about as much as a large mango). His skin is red and wrinkled. Blood vessels in his lungs are developing to prepare him for breathing. He can swallow, but he normally won't pass his first stool (called meconium) until after birth. Loud noises heard often in utero — such as your dog barking or the roar of a vacuum cleaner — probably won't faze your baby when he hears them outside the womb.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Week 22
It has been a great week. Dr. Longo (the specialist) says my cervix is still closed and long, which is GREAT news, because we are approaching viability, which is such a huge relief. Week 23 is the beginning of viability, according the Dr. Longo, and certain viability starts at week 28. It is all not that far away!! We have started registering, although some of the bigger items that are registered are subject to change...So, mom and dad and whoever, don't buy yet!! I will be solidifying our furniture, etc. in the next couple of days. We are registered at Babies R Us (www.babiesrus.com) and Target (www.target.com). That is a lot of fun!! Eli has been busy moving around. Our ultrasound showed him to be 1 lb, which is the 45th percentile (whatever that means)...I guess he is average sized. His organs and all looked great! No appearant deformities! YEAY! He is a growing, busy boy! He just wiggles and moves...There must be a lot going on in there!! He had the hiccups on Thurs when they did our scan! It was so cute to see his little belly jump!! Everything seems to be text book for now! We are so excited! We'll keep you posted in the weeks to come! Hopefully things will stay uneventful!! :)
Your pregnancy: 22 weeks
Your baby now looks like a miniature newborn, checking in at 10.9 inches (the length of a spaghetti squash) and almost 1 pound. Her skin will continue to appear wrinkled until she gains enough weight to fill it out, and the fine hair (lanugo) that covers her head and body is now visible. Her lips are becoming more distinct, and the first signs of teeth are appearing as buds beneath her gum line. Her eyes are developed, though the iris (the colored part of the eye) still lacks pigment. Eyelids and eyebrows are in place, and her pancreas, essential for hormone production, is developing steadily.
Your pregnancy: 22 weeks
Your baby now looks like a miniature newborn, checking in at 10.9 inches (the length of a spaghetti squash) and almost 1 pound. Her skin will continue to appear wrinkled until she gains enough weight to fill it out, and the fine hair (lanugo) that covers her head and body is now visible. Her lips are becoming more distinct, and the first signs of teeth are appearing as buds beneath her gum line. Her eyes are developed, though the iris (the colored part of the eye) still lacks pigment. Eyelids and eyebrows are in place, and her pancreas, essential for hormone production, is developing steadily.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Week 21
It is with great joy that I announce that we have officially entered our 21st week of pregnancy!! YEAY! and to top it all off, my body is doing just what it should! My cervix is holding, even with pressure...It is almost like I don't have an incompetent cervix at all. Thank God!! We still have a few weeks to viability (starts at week 24), but with everything going the way it is...it looks like we will go far beyond our original expectations and have a full term birth!! (Ok. I may be getting a little ahead of myself, but I can dream, can't I?) Dr. Morris is very encouraging and says that he will be so excited when I can reach 28 weeks (certain viability). Then we can have baby showers and start painting the nursery!!
Your pregnancy: 21 weeks
Your baby now weighs about three-quarters of a pound and is approximately 10 1/2 inches long — the length of a carrot. His eyebrows and eyelids are fully developed. And you can certainly feel him move. He's oblivious to your schedule, though, so don't be surprised if he starts working out just when you're settling down for the night. If you're having a girl, her vagina is formed now, though it will continue to develop until birth.
Your pregnancy: 21 weeks
Your baby now weighs about three-quarters of a pound and is approximately 10 1/2 inches long — the length of a carrot. His eyebrows and eyelids are fully developed. And you can certainly feel him move. He's oblivious to your schedule, though, so don't be surprised if he starts working out just when you're settling down for the night. If you're having a girl, her vagina is formed now, though it will continue to develop until birth.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Week 20
From my Weekly Email:
Hi to all! I am sure many of you have not heard from me in quite a long time and may have had no idea that I was expecting...Well, I am expecting, in fact, I am half way through...due in July! I am writing today to ask for prayers. In June of last year, we lost our first son at this time in our pregnancy (20 weeks and 1 day) due to an incompetent cervix and preterm labor. This year has been one of very high highs and very low lows. Please pray for us as we are so torn over grieving the loss of Judah and the excitement of a new little boy (Elisha "Eli"). The doctor says everything looks good, but warns that that can change in an instant. Which I am well aware of as our last pregnancy seemed to be text book until the day before we lost our son. I will be going in for my biweekly ultrasound with the specialist tomorrow morning. I feel certain that everything is ok, but I can't help but remember how hard it was to have the carpet ripped out from under me. BUT..God is so faithful and has answered every prayer right on time. In fact, my cervix has actually lengthened, which is unheard of!! So, I know that something great is going to be! In any case, we are praying for a miracle. Please pray that my cervix will not give way until after week 37.
Week 20
Your baby weighs about 10 1/2 ounces now. She's also around 6 1/2 inches long from head to bottom, and about 10 inches from head to heel — the length of a banana. (For the first 20 weeks, we use measurements taken from the top of the baby's head to her bottom — known as the "crown to rump" measurement. After that, we use measurements from head to toe. This is because a baby's legs are curled up against her torso during the first half of pregnancy and are very hard to measure.)
A greasy white substance called vernix caseosa coats her entire body to protect her skin during its long submersion in amniotic fluid. (This slick coating also eases the journey down the birth canal.)
Your baby is swallowing more, which is good practice for her digestive system. She's also producing meconium, a black, sticky substance that's the result of cell loss, digestive secretion, and swallowed amniotic fluid. This meconium will accumulate in her bowels, and you'll see it in her first messy diaper (although a few babies pass it in utero or during delivery).
Hi to all! I am sure many of you have not heard from me in quite a long time and may have had no idea that I was expecting...Well, I am expecting, in fact, I am half way through...due in July! I am writing today to ask for prayers. In June of last year, we lost our first son at this time in our pregnancy (20 weeks and 1 day) due to an incompetent cervix and preterm labor. This year has been one of very high highs and very low lows. Please pray for us as we are so torn over grieving the loss of Judah and the excitement of a new little boy (Elisha "Eli"). The doctor says everything looks good, but warns that that can change in an instant. Which I am well aware of as our last pregnancy seemed to be text book until the day before we lost our son. I will be going in for my biweekly ultrasound with the specialist tomorrow morning. I feel certain that everything is ok, but I can't help but remember how hard it was to have the carpet ripped out from under me. BUT..God is so faithful and has answered every prayer right on time. In fact, my cervix has actually lengthened, which is unheard of!! So, I know that something great is going to be! In any case, we are praying for a miracle. Please pray that my cervix will not give way until after week 37.
Week 20
Your baby weighs about 10 1/2 ounces now. She's also around 6 1/2 inches long from head to bottom, and about 10 inches from head to heel — the length of a banana. (For the first 20 weeks, we use measurements taken from the top of the baby's head to her bottom — known as the "crown to rump" measurement. After that, we use measurements from head to toe. This is because a baby's legs are curled up against her torso during the first half of pregnancy and are very hard to measure.)
A greasy white substance called vernix caseosa coats her entire body to protect her skin during its long submersion in amniotic fluid. (This slick coating also eases the journey down the birth canal.)
Your baby is swallowing more, which is good practice for her digestive system. She's also producing meconium, a black, sticky substance that's the result of cell loss, digestive secretion, and swallowed amniotic fluid. This meconium will accumulate in her bowels, and you'll see it in her first messy diaper (although a few babies pass it in utero or during delivery).
Monday, January 21, 2008
Our New Deck
What a weekend we had. Following my surgery I could do nothing, but my dad and Barb had already planned a trip to come help with the house. So, on Thursday night they arrived and we enjoyed a nice dinner together...Friday morning, dad started working while Barb and I took DJ to the vet for a redress of her injured paw. Before the dr could take DJ back I had some discomfort and bleeding...so, Barb and I left DJ at the dr.'s office and ran to the hospital only to find out that everything is ok. After we picked up DJ and lunch we went home to find dad had started framing up the deck and that is what he and Barb worked on for the rest of the day. Saturday morning it was rainy and gross, so we stayed in and rested. Around noon everyone (except me) started working and by 8 that night the decks were finished!! Some of our friends came over to help. It was great! I am so thankful that dad and Barb were willing to come and put in so much time on our house. I hate that all they did was work while they were here and went home with nothing to show for it, but I am so thankful for our new decks on that back of our house!!
Thanks dad and Barb!!
Thanks dad and Barb!!
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Cerclage
Isn't it amazing how quickly things change?! Six months ago, Matt and I were so eager to go in and find out the sex of our baby one day and the next I was in labor and losing him. It seems like this whole baby thing should come naturally...Seeing how God commanded us to multiply!! But who am I to question God? :) We went in for an ultrasound on Monday with the specialist. The baby looks great..in fact, we found out that we are having a BOY!! We are both so excited. During the ultrasound it seemed that my cervix had shrunk from 3.5cm to 2.5 cm and the specialist said that we needed to have a stitch placed this week. My doctor worked me in for Wednesday morning and I went in at 9 and had my stitch placed by 12. I was afraid...mostly of the epidural...knowing that it was going to be painful. It all worked out ok. Dr. Morris said that we caught it just in time...my cervix had already shrunk by 1.5cm down to 2cm. That is bad because they can't place a stitch in the last 1cm, therefore, they only had 1cm to work with and could only place one stitch. But the stitch is there. I have had some discomfort and that will likely continue for a while, I will be on bed rest for a couple of days then back to life as normal without the lifting.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Elisha
2 Kings 6:8-17 "Now the king of Aram was at war with Israel...He sent horses and chariots and a strong force there (to Dothan where the Israelites were camped). They went by night and surrounded the city. When the servant of the man of God got up and went out early the next morning, an army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city. "Oh, my lord, what shall we do?" the servant asked. "Don't be afraid," the prophet answered. "Those who are with us are more than those who are with them." And Elisha prayed, "O LORD, open his eyes so he may see." Then the LORD opened the servant's eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha."
I am so happy to report today that Matt and I are expecting a baby BOY!! We have been blessed to have found out so early, and we are tickled pink (or blue?). Before the loss of Judah, we had chosen the name Charles Elisha for our son. With the unfortunate events of Judah's short life, we held the name for our next son. It is so funny how these things work out...and we couldn't have known why we waited to name our son after such a great man of faith, but it is so obvious to me now that this baby needed this name for MY comfort. I forget so quickly how much my God loves me and protects me. I believe that those who are with us are stronger and more powerful than anything that Satan can do. What a thought!! My God is protecting this baby with many horses and chariots...and I trust Him...No matter what His plan is!! I am not saying that I KNOW that this baby will live for me to hold and raise, but that I KNOW that my God can save his life. It is up to Him!! I am just along for the ride!!
I am so happy to report today that Matt and I are expecting a baby BOY!! We have been blessed to have found out so early, and we are tickled pink (or blue?). Before the loss of Judah, we had chosen the name Charles Elisha for our son. With the unfortunate events of Judah's short life, we held the name for our next son. It is so funny how these things work out...and we couldn't have known why we waited to name our son after such a great man of faith, but it is so obvious to me now that this baby needed this name for MY comfort. I forget so quickly how much my God loves me and protects me. I believe that those who are with us are stronger and more powerful than anything that Satan can do. What a thought!! My God is protecting this baby with many horses and chariots...and I trust Him...No matter what His plan is!! I am not saying that I KNOW that this baby will live for me to hold and raise, but that I KNOW that my God can save his life. It is up to Him!! I am just along for the ride!!
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
DJ
My poor little dog has hurt her paw. The dr. says it is the worst place for a dog to get cut. I'm not really sure what happened?! This morning, I let her out for about 5 minutes and when she came back in, she was limping, and her paw was bleeding. I was totally freaked out...I loaded her up in the car and off the the doggy ER we went. The dr. had to give her 11 stitches and sent her home with a nice bandage and some antibiotics. Her paw will have to be wrapped for 3 weeks or longer. I feel so bad for her. :(
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Vision Quest
Years ago, when we first chose to make Jesus lord of our lives, we made a yearly Vision Quest. I can't say that I remember all of the goals that it covered, but I thought I would share my 2008 Vision Quest in hopes that others would be inspired to make their own Vision Quest...and choose to dream for God this year.
I can say for sure that my life is feeling quite dry lately. I am still grieving the loss of one baby and trying not to worry about the precious life I have growing in me now. In my efforts to protect my heart, I have built a wall, and for the most part I am completely satisfied strolling through life as if nothing ever happened, but there are moments when reality sets in and I realize that I am a grieving parent...and a worried expecting mom. So, my Vision Quest this year is geared towards where my heart is at this moment.
My Vision Quest Scripture: Romans 12:12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer. It is part of the scripture I have chosen to pattern my life after...my life focus scripture - Romans 12:9-13.
My Spiritual Goal for 2008 is to live out the scripture above by finding joy in the hope of heaven...and the hope of a precious new baby to hold, being patient with myself as my heart mends...and as the doctors poke and prod and work so hard to give us a baby, and being faithful in prayer...knowing that I can only meet this goal with God's help!
My Physical Goal for 2008 is to take care of myself. It's not a weight loss goal or a physical change goal...more a self-discipline goal (2 Tim 1:7). I want to take care of the body God has given me...I want to train my kids that it is important to take care of yourself...therefore, I need to live an example of this!
These are my Vision Quest Goals. I hope they inspire you towards great goals for 2008.
I can say for sure that my life is feeling quite dry lately. I am still grieving the loss of one baby and trying not to worry about the precious life I have growing in me now. In my efforts to protect my heart, I have built a wall, and for the most part I am completely satisfied strolling through life as if nothing ever happened, but there are moments when reality sets in and I realize that I am a grieving parent...and a worried expecting mom. So, my Vision Quest this year is geared towards where my heart is at this moment.
My Vision Quest Scripture: Romans 12:12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer. It is part of the scripture I have chosen to pattern my life after...my life focus scripture - Romans 12:9-13.
My Spiritual Goal for 2008 is to live out the scripture above by finding joy in the hope of heaven...and the hope of a precious new baby to hold, being patient with myself as my heart mends...and as the doctors poke and prod and work so hard to give us a baby, and being faithful in prayer...knowing that I can only meet this goal with God's help!
My Physical Goal for 2008 is to take care of myself. It's not a weight loss goal or a physical change goal...more a self-discipline goal (2 Tim 1:7). I want to take care of the body God has given me...I want to train my kids that it is important to take care of yourself...therefore, I need to live an example of this!
These are my Vision Quest Goals. I hope they inspire you towards great goals for 2008.
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