Well today seemed to be a good day. It is the best I have felt since delivering Lilliana. I was a little sore at the end of the day but after relaxing feel great. My washer came so I spent the day catching up on laundry I wanted to save for the new washing machine. I also cleaned the house just a little bit. I am now ready for the week without somebody being here 24/7.
Anthony went grocery shopping for me today so we all did not have to go out. He stocked up so hopefully it does not have to be done for two weeks. I got to stay home with the two kids by myself. It went great. I was a little nervous but it helped that part of the time was during nap. Last week I was having huge anxiety attacks about staying home by myself and wondering how I would do it but I think my hormones have evened out a bit so now I feel better. I may have some rough days but I think I will be just fine! I do have a good friend coming tomorrow and then another friend on Wed. Anthonys mom is helping out on Tues along with his sister or his great aunt. Aunt Toni is taking Eli for the afternoon tomorrow so I think I should be good. Anthony might be home part of the day on Tues. anyways as that is the day of the funeral for his coworker. I have plenty of help and feel good about it.
I LOVE my new washer. I actually enjoyed doing wash today. I normally hate it but this was fun. I am sure the newness will wear off soon. Anthony also got a new TV today. It was his anniversary present really. We really debated about getting it but I decided he should get it. Sometimes he needs to just relax and I know he likes playing video games. He is great about not overdoing it and only playing after everything is done or I need help. It has not always been that way but he has done a lot better. I personally do not care if we have it or not although I am glad because now I can begin excercising and don't have to think about how I was going to start that. All in all it was a good day. I am sad he is going back to work tomorrow but somebody has to work to pay the bills.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Everything Breaks and Newborn Pictures
I have decided we have the luck of right after we have a baby something breaks that is not an expensive fix. After we had Eli our transmission in our car went out. We had not even owned the car a year. We got it fixed no problems. This time its our TV and washer. Now the TV is not essential to our lives so we can live without although in a few weeks I will want one to start excercising. The washer is a different story. We have needed one for a long time so it was coming. Thank goodness we got our tax return so yesterday I went and picked out a washer. As odd as it is I have never been so excited to do laundry tomorrow when it comes. I am soo odd I know but I am excited.
Today I finally did Lilliana's newborn pictures. I have been wanting to do them forever but of course she is only a week old and I needed to rest. It was an interesting experience. She loves her pacifier so we had a hard time getting her to cooperate without it. Sadly the best pictures she has it in her mouth but I got some good ones without. I really love photography. I always have. I don't think I am some great artisist or anything but I enjoy it. I am not as good as my Uncle Eric I do know that. I enjoyed playing though. A lady in our church that knits graciously made me a baby bowl and cacoon that is in the pictures. She did such a great job and I was so excited to use them. They will be posted at the bottom.
Eli and I have had a great day together. I was finally able to get on the floor and play with him after many months of not. He continues to be such a good big brother. He is always helping and kissing Lilliana. He has also started helping with chores on his own around the house. If he sees us doing something he jumps right in and helps. He is such a good little boy and I am so glad I can enjoy him a little more now that I am not huge and pregnant.
Anthony goes back to work on Monday. I am very nervous about it but am feeling better and think I will manage. I have some friends helping and Anthony's mom helping this week and the following so I should be good.
We were also reminded of how short life can be this weekend. One of Anthony's coworkers was killed in a car accident on his way home. He was only 20 or 21. That is the second tragedy I have heard of young people passing away that I knew this week. We never know how short our time is so we must use it wisely.
She is sooo chubby and it shows in this one. Probably not the most flattering picture but it shows her chubby cheeks.
Today I finally did Lilliana's newborn pictures. I have been wanting to do them forever but of course she is only a week old and I needed to rest. It was an interesting experience. She loves her pacifier so we had a hard time getting her to cooperate without it. Sadly the best pictures she has it in her mouth but I got some good ones without. I really love photography. I always have. I don't think I am some great artisist or anything but I enjoy it. I am not as good as my Uncle Eric I do know that. I enjoyed playing though. A lady in our church that knits graciously made me a baby bowl and cacoon that is in the pictures. She did such a great job and I was so excited to use them. They will be posted at the bottom.
Eli and I have had a great day together. I was finally able to get on the floor and play with him after many months of not. He continues to be such a good big brother. He is always helping and kissing Lilliana. He has also started helping with chores on his own around the house. If he sees us doing something he jumps right in and helps. He is such a good little boy and I am so glad I can enjoy him a little more now that I am not huge and pregnant.
Anthony goes back to work on Monday. I am very nervous about it but am feeling better and think I will manage. I have some friends helping and Anthony's mom helping this week and the following so I should be good.
We were also reminded of how short life can be this weekend. One of Anthony's coworkers was killed in a car accident on his way home. He was only 20 or 21. That is the second tragedy I have heard of young people passing away that I knew this week. We never know how short our time is so we must use it wisely.
This bottom one with the pouty face is my favorite!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Let the Crazy Days Begin
Yesterday was Anthony's and mine anniversary. We really did not do a whole lot but relax. Aunt Toni was such a blessing and took Eli so we had some time to enjoy each other and just sleep. It felt great. We were going to go get a milkshake because for some reason that is my new addiction but I did not feel up to it so we will go another time I am sure. I LOVE my husband and he has been such a wonderful man to me. He has helped me so much this week. It has been an easier recovery compared to Eli but even then he was my rock and kept me going. I am a lucky lady.
Today we decided we would get out of the house for a bit. I really wanted to go even though Anthony thought I should rest. In the end we compromised and just took his check to the bank and went to Meijer to pick up a few things. It was nice to go out but it was plenty of excercise to make me a little tired. It felt good though. I am off all my blood pressure meds at this point and today is probably the first day I have felt really good!! I can't believe it has already been a week since I had her but I do feel great.
Eli had a funny moment today. We got some snow last night so Anthony was out shoveling. I was getting dressed to go to town and Eli was playing. He had just had a snack. Well apparantly the snack was not good enough. He got into the fridge, pulled out a container of frosting, took it to his chair and began shoveling it into his mouth. I come out to see the fridge open and he covered in chocolate. LOL I could not even be mad at him. I just grabbed my camera and took some pictures. He is such a goon but we love him.
Today we decided we would get out of the house for a bit. I really wanted to go even though Anthony thought I should rest. In the end we compromised and just took his check to the bank and went to Meijer to pick up a few things. It was nice to go out but it was plenty of excercise to make me a little tired. It felt good though. I am off all my blood pressure meds at this point and today is probably the first day I have felt really good!! I can't believe it has already been a week since I had her but I do feel great.
Eli had a funny moment today. We got some snow last night so Anthony was out shoveling. I was getting dressed to go to town and Eli was playing. He had just had a snack. Well apparantly the snack was not good enough. He got into the fridge, pulled out a container of frosting, took it to his chair and began shoveling it into his mouth. I come out to see the fridge open and he covered in chocolate. LOL I could not even be mad at him. I just grabbed my camera and took some pictures. He is such a goon but we love him.
Here is little miss chubby Lilliana! Her cheeks are soo chubby its adorable. I think she takes after her auntie Tosha with her crazy hair!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Thank God for Family
The past two days seem to have been very trying and overwhelming! I find myself very overwhelmed with eveyrthing going on and everything that has to be done. Then I sit back and look at my family and I AM SOO BLESSED!!! Eli is adjusting very well and we have noticed a huge improvement in his listening, obeying, and all around communication skills. He has become very responsible and grown up so much in the past 5 days. He also has a lot of energy which has not been easy but we are working hard at finding outlets to release that. He helped Anthony shovel the foot of snow yesterday that we got. He LOVED being outside doing that. It also burned a lot of energy for him.
Thank God for extended family. Yesterday we needed a few things and Anthony's mom graciously drove and got them. We thought she had gone to work but did not and felt bad because she made a special trip but were so blessed. I also forgot to mention that Eli went bowling on Sat like he usually does only this time they let him actually bowl. Usually he just goes and watches. HE IS IN LOVE!! Aunt Toni took pictures and I need to get them. She has been such a blessing getting him and taking him. He loves going to her house to see her and "THE KIDS!!" We are hoping to take him for his birthday next week depending on how I feel and Anthony's work schedule.
Thank God for Church Family......We have been receiving meals every night from our church family. It has been such a blessing not to have to think about food. I don't even think I probably would have felt like cooking until today. We truly are such a blessed family and I can not wait to see how God has blessed us with this little girl.
Lilliana is yet to start any sort of schedule we had two good nights of sleep and then last night that went downhill. I was up with her all night. She is such a sweety and soo different that Eli when it comes to nursing so I am dealing with some issues there but we are working through them. She is already back to her birth weight as of today so doing great!! Hopefully in the next couple of days I will be up to doing her newborn pictures. I have been wanting to do them but KNOW I NEED TO REST so I am!! In fact Eli is gone to see family again tonight so I am off to bed to sleep while I can!
Thank God for extended family. Yesterday we needed a few things and Anthony's mom graciously drove and got them. We thought she had gone to work but did not and felt bad because she made a special trip but were so blessed. I also forgot to mention that Eli went bowling on Sat like he usually does only this time they let him actually bowl. Usually he just goes and watches. HE IS IN LOVE!! Aunt Toni took pictures and I need to get them. She has been such a blessing getting him and taking him. He loves going to her house to see her and "THE KIDS!!" We are hoping to take him for his birthday next week depending on how I feel and Anthony's work schedule.
Thank God for Church Family......We have been receiving meals every night from our church family. It has been such a blessing not to have to think about food. I don't even think I probably would have felt like cooking until today. We truly are such a blessed family and I can not wait to see how God has blessed us with this little girl.
Lilliana is yet to start any sort of schedule we had two good nights of sleep and then last night that went downhill. I was up with her all night. She is such a sweety and soo different that Eli when it comes to nursing so I am dealing with some issues there but we are working through them. She is already back to her birth weight as of today so doing great!! Hopefully in the next couple of days I will be up to doing her newborn pictures. I have been wanting to do them but KNOW I NEED TO REST so I am!! In fact Eli is gone to see family again tonight so I am off to bed to sleep while I can!
Sunday, February 20, 2011
The Highs and Lows after having a baby.
Wow it has been a world wind of crazy and overwhelming feelings the past two days!! I am beginning to wonder what I got myself into. I LOVE having another addition to our family but we had a rough first 24 hours after she was born. She constantly wanted to nurse so I literally got no sleep until last night. That can make for one tired and cranky momma. Eli was stressing me out, she was, and so was Anthony. Needless to say my wonderful friend came to my rescue and assured me I can do this!! I have the world's best friend when I need it so thank you Meghan!! All her advice worked and last night I got some sleep and woke up feeling so much better. I do know my hormones are crazy and that can cause a lot of problems.
Some funny and sweet things Eli has done since she has been born.....
He brought us the doll that we were using to get him use to her and asked us to turn it "on" like her.
He kisses her all the time
He tries to give her his cars so she will play with him.
He loves to hold her hands.
He always says "Hi Lilliana!" when he comes near her.
He is the best big brother and is sooo in love with her. I could not ask for a better life with these two!! God blessed me.
I thought I would tell you why we chose her name. Names are always difficult for us. We just never can find the right name. I have two middle names so all of our girls will. No matter what if this was a girl it was going to be Nicole Rose for the middle name. Nicole after my mom and Rose after part of my middle name. I have always loved Lily but it is really popular lately so when I was pregnant with Eli I found Lilliana and LOVED it. Then he was a boy so it got tossed out. This time I threw it out from the beginning. I just said no its popular so we wont use it. Honestly her name was going to be Ruby or Ruby-Mae. I wanted the Mae on it Anthony said NO!! Ruby is after my Great Grandma. Then I thought about Lilliana way later into this pregnancy and one day it just fit. So I talked to Anthony about it. We had boy names from the beginning. It would be either Joseph Isaiah or Isaiah Christopher so that was a done deal. We just could not come up with girls names. Anthony knows how much I loved her name and could not really ever come up with anything he liked so it worked:)
I have to say I am feeling great compared to recovering from a C Section. I am amazed at how mobile and how much more energy I have. I forget I need to slow down a lot so this morning it caught up with me but I have to say hands down I will take a Vaginal birth over a C Section anyday and Yes I would still do it all natural out of the hospital even thought that is the some of the worse pain I have ever been in!
I think Anthony is a little overwhelmed but he is doing well. Eli is keeping us on our toes but I hope in the next couple of weeks we adjust and are able to cope better!! Here are some more pictures. This poor girl is in trouble! Momma is already playing dress up and loving every minute of it.
Some funny and sweet things Eli has done since she has been born.....
He brought us the doll that we were using to get him use to her and asked us to turn it "on" like her.
He kisses her all the time
He tries to give her his cars so she will play with him.
He loves to hold her hands.
He always says "Hi Lilliana!" when he comes near her.
He is the best big brother and is sooo in love with her. I could not ask for a better life with these two!! God blessed me.
Lilliana seems to be a lot calmer than Eli so we are grateful for that! She is not as demanding either. She is also not as advanced. We never had to hold Eli's head up he did it from birth. She is not as strong. Honestly, I am glad for this. He was so advanced he was not my baby long!! She is now nicknamed "Eskimo" as she has the chubbiest cheeks and looks like an Eskimo baby when we swaddle her all up.
I have to say I am feeling great compared to recovering from a C Section. I am amazed at how mobile and how much more energy I have. I forget I need to slow down a lot so this morning it caught up with me but I have to say hands down I will take a Vaginal birth over a C Section anyday and Yes I would still do it all natural out of the hospital even thought that is the some of the worse pain I have ever been in!
I think Anthony is a little overwhelmed but he is doing well. Eli is keeping us on our toes but I hope in the next couple of weeks we adjust and are able to cope better!! Here are some more pictures. This poor girl is in trouble! Momma is already playing dress up and loving every minute of it.
Friday, February 18, 2011
The Birth Story of Lilliana Nicole Rose
Yesterday I had a baby appointment and never really thought that today I would be having a baby today.
Last night was absolutely miserable. Eli was up every single hour and I was so fed up I took some benadryl because I knew I needed sleep. I kept having gas pains or what I thought starting about 5 this morning. I told Anthony to drive himself to work and not take the work truck just in case but honestly thought it would be nothing. Eli showed up in bed with me after Anthony left at 5 for work. He slept with me until 7 where I got up and took him potty because he had to go. As I bent over a had a gush and thought oh geez I just peed my pants!!! The first time I have done this this pregnancy. Then it hit me well that might be my water. So I went to bathroom and realized I could not control it. I then called my midwife. I wanted to labor at home but my contractions started pretty hard and strong. Aunt Toni came to take Eli. Anthony had to be called home but was about 2 hours away.
I had some things to get together before I wanted to head to the Birth Center. I started getting them but my contractions were intense. They were coming quick and hard. I told Anthony hurry but when he got here I still insisted we clean even though he kept saying we need to go. Finally I realized at about 9:00 we needed to go. So I got ready to go. I wanted to cry in the car knowing I would not be able to move through my contractions or anything.
We arrived there at 9:30 a.m. I went in and immediatly wanted in the bath tub. I also wanted to push. My midwife checked because I was crying thinking it was too soon. She checked and I was only at a 5. So I got in the tub. I was in there for 5 minutes and decided it was not comfortable. I then got out and went to the bathroom. I just paced for a few minutes but I kept feeling like pushing. My contractions were long and hard!! I sat on the toilet and began pushing. Yes I know very glamerous the toilet!! LOL I pushed for 24 minutes and she was born. It was amazing. It hurt but it was amazing.
We spent the day cuddling and enjoying her and are currently home. Eli loved seeing her and was sooo excited to hold her.
She was born at 10:24 am so a 3 and a half hour labor. She weighed 8 pounds even. She is 20 inches long. I am happy to say I had a out of hospital VBAC birth with NO medication, IVS, or any medical intervention!! It was amazing! She is perfect and I am so glad she is part of our family!
Last night was absolutely miserable. Eli was up every single hour and I was so fed up I took some benadryl because I knew I needed sleep. I kept having gas pains or what I thought starting about 5 this morning. I told Anthony to drive himself to work and not take the work truck just in case but honestly thought it would be nothing. Eli showed up in bed with me after Anthony left at 5 for work. He slept with me until 7 where I got up and took him potty because he had to go. As I bent over a had a gush and thought oh geez I just peed my pants!!! The first time I have done this this pregnancy. Then it hit me well that might be my water. So I went to bathroom and realized I could not control it. I then called my midwife. I wanted to labor at home but my contractions started pretty hard and strong. Aunt Toni came to take Eli. Anthony had to be called home but was about 2 hours away.
I had some things to get together before I wanted to head to the Birth Center. I started getting them but my contractions were intense. They were coming quick and hard. I told Anthony hurry but when he got here I still insisted we clean even though he kept saying we need to go. Finally I realized at about 9:00 we needed to go. So I got ready to go. I wanted to cry in the car knowing I would not be able to move through my contractions or anything.
We arrived there at 9:30 a.m. I went in and immediatly wanted in the bath tub. I also wanted to push. My midwife checked because I was crying thinking it was too soon. She checked and I was only at a 5. So I got in the tub. I was in there for 5 minutes and decided it was not comfortable. I then got out and went to the bathroom. I just paced for a few minutes but I kept feeling like pushing. My contractions were long and hard!! I sat on the toilet and began pushing. Yes I know very glamerous the toilet!! LOL I pushed for 24 minutes and she was born. It was amazing. It hurt but it was amazing.
We spent the day cuddling and enjoying her and are currently home. Eli loved seeing her and was sooo excited to hold her.
She was born at 10:24 am so a 3 and a half hour labor. She weighed 8 pounds even. She is 20 inches long. I am happy to say I had a out of hospital VBAC birth with NO medication, IVS, or any medical intervention!! It was amazing! She is perfect and I am so glad she is part of our family!
Thursday, February 17, 2011
All about a Natural Birth
I think I have found the time to write my post on natural birth......Bear with me and I hope it is not disorganized as honestly, I could gooo on for hours.
When we think of birth in this country we think of the lady screaming in pain as somebody is racing to the hospital. They rush her in give her an epi, pull her legs back to her head, tell her to push while counting to ten. Finally the baby is born placed on mom for a few seconds if they are lucky and then rushed over to a table to be cleaned or whatever they deem as "medically" necessary. All the while mom is anxiously awaiting to see her baby. Yes, I know there are exceptions and this is not how it always goes but the majority of the time it is. Let me preface this entire post by saying there is a need for hospitals at times and some people love having the security of a hospital and I am not getting down on anybody for what they choose! This is what we choose and is for our family.
When I got pregnant with Eli I thought I would have him at the hospital and see an OB etc. After going to the Ob a total of 2 times I was not convinced. I had a run in at one point with them and basically the OB told me I was stupid for asking questions and questioning him about him wanting me to get a Hepatitis B vaccine while pregnant. That is when I began to do some research. I am so lucky in that I live in a area where there is an independant birthing center with 3 practicing midwives. It is not affiliated with any hospital or anything. I orginally looked at going there but decided it was a no go as they do not offer epidurals and I thought there is no way I could ever give birth without it. It is a mind set we have been taught from little girls by TV I think. After talking to my grandma I decided maybe I would try it.
Every Thursday night the birth center offered a informational meeting. Anthony did not like my idea of having an out of hospital birth and I think was secretly hoping I would lose interest. He forgets who he married. I went and was convinced this is what I want. I don't remember a lot but I do remember I needed Anthony to attend one and that this is where I wanted to be. It was like a home. Some of my aunt's have given birth at home. My mom wanted to do a homebirth too but from preeclampsia was not able to so this was normal to me after I really thought about it. It was not normal to Anthony. Anthony finally went. We also interviewed a midwife for a home birth but decided after careful consideration because of the time of year and how far we were from a hospital it was not what we were ready for. The birth center is 5 minutes by ambulance away from the hospital.
After our first appointment I was excited but also thought oh great....these people are the green hippies!! LOL Little did I know I would soon become like them and now I don't look at it that way. I still was excited about it. Going to a hospital can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000. That to me is crazy!!! Having a baby should not be this expensive but it is a HUGE business!! Our total for the birth center which let me remind you includes all prenatal visits, childbirth classes, 2 massages, the birth, and 6 weeks postpartum care with some home visitis included is only $3800. A stark contrast to the hospital. The other thing is they take time with you!!! It is not five minutes in and out. We have hour appointments. We also can call anytime and know a midwife will call us back not just a nurse or receptionist. We are educated in birth and can make decisions as to what we want tested for not just here lets take your blood. To me this is huge!!
I watched the Business of Being Born shortly after we made our decision. It really helped solidify my thoughts on this. Here is a trailor for the movie if anyone is interested in watching.
As I soon learned from my midwives there are some things that would not be done and I had to just rethink my thoughts regarding these. The first thing is they do not induce. This is a foreign concept to a lot of woman because they just get induced when they are 37-40 weeks. It was foreign to me. My thought was I just have to wait until this baby arrives.
Here is the thought behind this. Usually pitocin is given for induction. Pit is EVIL!! It actually gives you the kind of contractions you need for the end of labor to push. So you want an epidural because hours of that is just excurtiationg and honestly that is just too much. An epi can then slow labor down so pit is upped. This just starts a vicious cycle. By this point a lot of time the baby is having too hard of contractions and is sent into distress so what do you know its time for a C Section. Yep an unnecessary surgery that if you probably would have just let baby come it would have!
Here is my other thought on Epidurals.....no matter what anybody says I do believe they have an affect on baby!!! I have seen a video on my birth classes to prove this. I wish I had the video to show. The moms that had the epi and were allowed to keep their babies did not climb up their mom to nurse whereas those that went natural did. Sooo say what you want but I have seen an epi does confuse baby. I had one with Eli I am not going to lie. I hated it and to this day still maintain when I was laboring without I felt less pain.
Another common reason for C Sections is failure to progress or baby got stuck. Well yep that is bound to happen when you are stuck on your back is probably the absolute worse position for this. the problem is you have an epidural and are numb so there is no other place. When in all reality you could be out of bed squatting or just walking and letting gravity work. Yes you might feel some pain but I promise you just let your body do what it was meant to do and stay relaxed your natural endorphines would kick in and its amazing. They feel great! I remember less of that part of my labor with Eli then when I had the epidural.
Cervical checks are a big thing done too in the U.S. before you go into labor. They are not done in most European countries until labor. It can introduce bacteria and cause early labor so it is not routinely done there. Here in the U.S. they start checking around 36 weeks and any time you go to L&D for any emergency. Thankfully our midwives do not do them and not even in labor unless they need some more information or you ask. I won't be asking as they HURT!!!
The interesting thing is in most European countries a midwife is used over an Ob unless you have problems. Here in the U.S. midwives are practically thought of as unsafe and its terrifying to have a birth outside of the hospital. I hated having to have Eli in the hospital but it was very necessary and I know this.
So let me give you a picture of what my dream or ideal birth will be with this baby and how many births go at the the Birth Center......
I will labor at home until I feel like I need to be in the place I am ready to give birth. I will go to the birth center which is a lot like a home. I will labor in a big tub or where I feel most comfortable whether it be walking, squating, or laying in bed. Most likely I will not want anybody around. My midwives will listen to my breathing and how I respond and will not have me hooked to anything but periodically come in and check on vitals for me and baby but not bother me unless I need it. Its my show and I will do what I need to. Labor is a dance between mom and baby and only we know what needs to be done to get baby out. I hope to give birth in the bathtub but who knows I may be more comfortable somewhere else. When baby is born NOBODY will take it unless of course there is a huge problem. We will also not cut the cord until it is done pulsing. That blood is babies blood and will help it. I will be able to cuddle and hold the baby as long as I want before they weigh it and do all the other things. We then will crawl into bed and I will be able to co-sleep unlike at the hospital until it is time to go home. I can not wait!! I hope everything goes as planned. If for any reason I do have to be transfered it is for a reason and I trust my midwives as they are trained in birth not surgery like most OBs. I am sure I have missed some things but here is a general idea of how we want it. If anybody has any questions feel free to ask.
Here is a link to the place I will give birth. Feel free to read the birth stories. They are inspiring and who knows you might learn something new:) http://www.greenhousebirthcenter.com/
When we think of birth in this country we think of the lady screaming in pain as somebody is racing to the hospital. They rush her in give her an epi, pull her legs back to her head, tell her to push while counting to ten. Finally the baby is born placed on mom for a few seconds if they are lucky and then rushed over to a table to be cleaned or whatever they deem as "medically" necessary. All the while mom is anxiously awaiting to see her baby. Yes, I know there are exceptions and this is not how it always goes but the majority of the time it is. Let me preface this entire post by saying there is a need for hospitals at times and some people love having the security of a hospital and I am not getting down on anybody for what they choose! This is what we choose and is for our family.
When I got pregnant with Eli I thought I would have him at the hospital and see an OB etc. After going to the Ob a total of 2 times I was not convinced. I had a run in at one point with them and basically the OB told me I was stupid for asking questions and questioning him about him wanting me to get a Hepatitis B vaccine while pregnant. That is when I began to do some research. I am so lucky in that I live in a area where there is an independant birthing center with 3 practicing midwives. It is not affiliated with any hospital or anything. I orginally looked at going there but decided it was a no go as they do not offer epidurals and I thought there is no way I could ever give birth without it. It is a mind set we have been taught from little girls by TV I think. After talking to my grandma I decided maybe I would try it.
Every Thursday night the birth center offered a informational meeting. Anthony did not like my idea of having an out of hospital birth and I think was secretly hoping I would lose interest. He forgets who he married. I went and was convinced this is what I want. I don't remember a lot but I do remember I needed Anthony to attend one and that this is where I wanted to be. It was like a home. Some of my aunt's have given birth at home. My mom wanted to do a homebirth too but from preeclampsia was not able to so this was normal to me after I really thought about it. It was not normal to Anthony. Anthony finally went. We also interviewed a midwife for a home birth but decided after careful consideration because of the time of year and how far we were from a hospital it was not what we were ready for. The birth center is 5 minutes by ambulance away from the hospital.
After our first appointment I was excited but also thought oh great....these people are the green hippies!! LOL Little did I know I would soon become like them and now I don't look at it that way. I still was excited about it. Going to a hospital can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000. That to me is crazy!!! Having a baby should not be this expensive but it is a HUGE business!! Our total for the birth center which let me remind you includes all prenatal visits, childbirth classes, 2 massages, the birth, and 6 weeks postpartum care with some home visitis included is only $3800. A stark contrast to the hospital. The other thing is they take time with you!!! It is not five minutes in and out. We have hour appointments. We also can call anytime and know a midwife will call us back not just a nurse or receptionist. We are educated in birth and can make decisions as to what we want tested for not just here lets take your blood. To me this is huge!!
I watched the Business of Being Born shortly after we made our decision. It really helped solidify my thoughts on this. Here is a trailor for the movie if anyone is interested in watching.
As I soon learned from my midwives there are some things that would not be done and I had to just rethink my thoughts regarding these. The first thing is they do not induce. This is a foreign concept to a lot of woman because they just get induced when they are 37-40 weeks. It was foreign to me. My thought was I just have to wait until this baby arrives.
Here is the thought behind this. Usually pitocin is given for induction. Pit is EVIL!! It actually gives you the kind of contractions you need for the end of labor to push. So you want an epidural because hours of that is just excurtiationg and honestly that is just too much. An epi can then slow labor down so pit is upped. This just starts a vicious cycle. By this point a lot of time the baby is having too hard of contractions and is sent into distress so what do you know its time for a C Section. Yep an unnecessary surgery that if you probably would have just let baby come it would have!
Here is my other thought on Epidurals.....no matter what anybody says I do believe they have an affect on baby!!! I have seen a video on my birth classes to prove this. I wish I had the video to show. The moms that had the epi and were allowed to keep their babies did not climb up their mom to nurse whereas those that went natural did. Sooo say what you want but I have seen an epi does confuse baby. I had one with Eli I am not going to lie. I hated it and to this day still maintain when I was laboring without I felt less pain.
Another common reason for C Sections is failure to progress or baby got stuck. Well yep that is bound to happen when you are stuck on your back is probably the absolute worse position for this. the problem is you have an epidural and are numb so there is no other place. When in all reality you could be out of bed squatting or just walking and letting gravity work. Yes you might feel some pain but I promise you just let your body do what it was meant to do and stay relaxed your natural endorphines would kick in and its amazing. They feel great! I remember less of that part of my labor with Eli then when I had the epidural.
Cervical checks are a big thing done too in the U.S. before you go into labor. They are not done in most European countries until labor. It can introduce bacteria and cause early labor so it is not routinely done there. Here in the U.S. they start checking around 36 weeks and any time you go to L&D for any emergency. Thankfully our midwives do not do them and not even in labor unless they need some more information or you ask. I won't be asking as they HURT!!!
The interesting thing is in most European countries a midwife is used over an Ob unless you have problems. Here in the U.S. midwives are practically thought of as unsafe and its terrifying to have a birth outside of the hospital. I hated having to have Eli in the hospital but it was very necessary and I know this.
So let me give you a picture of what my dream or ideal birth will be with this baby and how many births go at the the Birth Center......
I will labor at home until I feel like I need to be in the place I am ready to give birth. I will go to the birth center which is a lot like a home. I will labor in a big tub or where I feel most comfortable whether it be walking, squating, or laying in bed. Most likely I will not want anybody around. My midwives will listen to my breathing and how I respond and will not have me hooked to anything but periodically come in and check on vitals for me and baby but not bother me unless I need it. Its my show and I will do what I need to. Labor is a dance between mom and baby and only we know what needs to be done to get baby out. I hope to give birth in the bathtub but who knows I may be more comfortable somewhere else. When baby is born NOBODY will take it unless of course there is a huge problem. We will also not cut the cord until it is done pulsing. That blood is babies blood and will help it. I will be able to cuddle and hold the baby as long as I want before they weigh it and do all the other things. We then will crawl into bed and I will be able to co-sleep unlike at the hospital until it is time to go home. I can not wait!! I hope everything goes as planned. If for any reason I do have to be transfered it is for a reason and I trust my midwives as they are trained in birth not surgery like most OBs. I am sure I have missed some things but here is a general idea of how we want it. If anybody has any questions feel free to ask.
Here is a link to the place I will give birth. Feel free to read the birth stories. They are inspiring and who knows you might learn something new:) http://www.greenhousebirthcenter.com/
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Lets talk "Going Green" or Just plain Economical Sense!
First let me say half the stuff I never invisioned myself doing. The original premise behind the "Green" movement is to save the earth. Personally I know God created the earth and realize it is just fine. I don't believe my carbon footprint is going to go ruin earth. Nor do I believe the rainforests are dying because we use cars, breath, etc. All that being said after doing lots of research and seeing things I realized there is a lot of stuff that is just not healthy for us. A lot of these things came about when we made the decision to use a midwife instead of an OB to deliver I our babies.
I have to admit my first interview at the Birth Center kinda freaked me out. They started talking about cloth diapers and I am thinking these people are NUTS!! Thankfully I continued and learned lots of great things. Then I began doing my own research. I won't say we do a ton of "Green" things but we do a few. I also have been trying to cut down on the chemicals and crap in food that we eat. In all honesty a lot of the green things we do can be chalked up to just plain old economical sense.
Our biggest thing we do is cloth diaper. Yes I fell into it and we cloth diaper. I honestly LOVE cloth diapering or as us cloth diapers call it FLUFF. CDs have changed so much. No more prefolds and pins unless you want. Here is a link to a store with modern cloth diapers. There are many patterns, colors, styles, etc. http://www.zbeardiapers.com/ They save us a ton of money in the end and they are better for baby. Disposables have a lot of chemicals in them. I just read a story where the dioxins in disposables were causing a little boy seizures. Yes that is an extreme case but really that is pretty scary.
I also have gone what is known as "Poo Free" for a while. I would have continued it but went to get my hair cut and it got washed and so it ruined it. Basically you only wash your hair with baking soda and rinse with apple cider vinegar. My hair actually was the best its ever been. Regular shampoo and conditioner makes your oil glands produce a lot of oil so you have to wash more. This way you only wash maybe once a week. There can be a detox period which mine lasted a month but after that it was great! I loved it.
I also try to use natural things and organic things when I can. Honestly it is expensive and we really can not afford it so I do not all the time. I know that organic fruit is better because it does not have all the toxins and hormones in it but the reality is we can not afford that at this point. I do make the kids baby food because I know it won't have all the crap in it. We also garden. Although last year learned the hard way that walnut trees will kill a garden if too close!
My other favorite thing is known as Diva Cup or menstrual cup. No pads or tampons and so much easier, nicer, and more comfortable. I won't go into too many details all that to say it and the cloth diapers are probably my favorite things that we do "green" but in all honesty its more about trying to be economical and not put so many chemicals in our bodies. I am not the best but I try. I don't feel better about the earth for it either. It is me feeling like I do better for my body because I need to take care of it. Hopefully this week Ill get around to do my birth blog. I keep meaning to but want to take some time and have been busy with things. That is where I tend to be the most conservative and natural.
On a lighter note I took my belly pictures yesterday and wow have I grown in two weeks. Here they are
38 weeks and 2 days!
At this point with Eli I was a week from having to have him do to my Preclampsia. My face was soo swollen looking back but here are the comparison pictures. I am bigger this pregnancy no doubt. Then again I started with more weight....my goal to lose it all this time!!! Oh well I will say I don't look so young anymore. LOL
I also forgot to mention these pictures are from our one year anniversary. Its hard to believe that was two years ago. As impatient and ready as I was yesterday to have this baby I am feeling much better today and am ok with not having it. I realized its only a week and a half until my due date and so I can even go over and its not that long. As I have said before maybe by tomorrow our new addition will be on its way and maybe it won't. Either way it will be a blessing!
I have to admit my first interview at the Birth Center kinda freaked me out. They started talking about cloth diapers and I am thinking these people are NUTS!! Thankfully I continued and learned lots of great things. Then I began doing my own research. I won't say we do a ton of "Green" things but we do a few. I also have been trying to cut down on the chemicals and crap in food that we eat. In all honesty a lot of the green things we do can be chalked up to just plain old economical sense.
Our biggest thing we do is cloth diaper. Yes I fell into it and we cloth diaper. I honestly LOVE cloth diapering or as us cloth diapers call it FLUFF. CDs have changed so much. No more prefolds and pins unless you want. Here is a link to a store with modern cloth diapers. There are many patterns, colors, styles, etc. http://www.zbeardiapers.com/ They save us a ton of money in the end and they are better for baby. Disposables have a lot of chemicals in them. I just read a story where the dioxins in disposables were causing a little boy seizures. Yes that is an extreme case but really that is pretty scary.
I also have gone what is known as "Poo Free" for a while. I would have continued it but went to get my hair cut and it got washed and so it ruined it. Basically you only wash your hair with baking soda and rinse with apple cider vinegar. My hair actually was the best its ever been. Regular shampoo and conditioner makes your oil glands produce a lot of oil so you have to wash more. This way you only wash maybe once a week. There can be a detox period which mine lasted a month but after that it was great! I loved it.
I also try to use natural things and organic things when I can. Honestly it is expensive and we really can not afford it so I do not all the time. I know that organic fruit is better because it does not have all the toxins and hormones in it but the reality is we can not afford that at this point. I do make the kids baby food because I know it won't have all the crap in it. We also garden. Although last year learned the hard way that walnut trees will kill a garden if too close!
My other favorite thing is known as Diva Cup or menstrual cup. No pads or tampons and so much easier, nicer, and more comfortable. I won't go into too many details all that to say it and the cloth diapers are probably my favorite things that we do "green" but in all honesty its more about trying to be economical and not put so many chemicals in our bodies. I am not the best but I try. I don't feel better about the earth for it either. It is me feeling like I do better for my body because I need to take care of it. Hopefully this week Ill get around to do my birth blog. I keep meaning to but want to take some time and have been busy with things. That is where I tend to be the most conservative and natural.
On a lighter note I took my belly pictures yesterday and wow have I grown in two weeks. Here they are
38 weeks and 2 days!
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Patience is a Virtue
I decided somebody must have prayed for me to have more patience today or God saw fit to think I needed some. Eli decided 6:00 was the appropriate time to be up today. Normally I would just go with the flow and whatver but I did not sleep well last night. I once again was having on and off contractions. So now I have little sleep and apparantly Eli wants to be ultra crazy today. LOL It has been a day. He also did not take a very long nap. Like I said I have needed a lot of PATIENCE.
I also am expecting 3 packages in the mail two which should have been here yesterday and they are not here. I look forward to mail especially packages so this was a little beyond frustrating. I just will have to be PATIENT for tomorrow and hope they arrive:)
I also am getting impatient these past couple of days to be done being pregnant as I feel so tired and just so over it lately. I wanted one more week a week ago and I got it so this baby can make an appearance anytime. I feel like our life is on hold just waiting. In reality I know its not and whats 3 more weeks when I have already done 38. I need to be PATIENT!!! Ill make it. I know I will.
I really need to clean this house too. It looks like a bomb went off. Sadly I am running out of steam. I will get it all done and then I have a Creative Memories Unit meeting tonight so some good girl time will be nice:) Anthony has off tomorrow so that will be nice. I just have to keep the verse Philippians 4:13 in my head the rest of the afternoon. "I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me."
I also am expecting 3 packages in the mail two which should have been here yesterday and they are not here. I look forward to mail especially packages so this was a little beyond frustrating. I just will have to be PATIENT for tomorrow and hope they arrive:)
I also am getting impatient these past couple of days to be done being pregnant as I feel so tired and just so over it lately. I wanted one more week a week ago and I got it so this baby can make an appearance anytime. I feel like our life is on hold just waiting. In reality I know its not and whats 3 more weeks when I have already done 38. I need to be PATIENT!!! Ill make it. I know I will.
I really need to clean this house too. It looks like a bomb went off. Sadly I am running out of steam. I will get it all done and then I have a Creative Memories Unit meeting tonight so some good girl time will be nice:) Anthony has off tomorrow so that will be nice. I just have to keep the verse Philippians 4:13 in my head the rest of the afternoon. "I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me."
Monday, February 14, 2011
Medicine Frustrations and Curious George
I have to say at this point in my life I very much hope I never develop a high blood pressure condition that is permanent. This is the second day in a row my medicine is causing me problems. It took my body a good 3 weeks to adjust to it but I am back to having the "adjusting" symptoms. It is very frustrating. Yesterday I could not even get out of the shower with out almost passing out. Thank goodness Anthony was home. Its frustrating because we are trying to get ready for church and then can't go because I have to lay down and sleep it off and Anthony stays to keep an eye on me. Many days my medicine or high blood pressure messes up plans. Today I planned to take Eli out and just get some fresh air and enjoy the warm weather. I doubt it is going to happen. I am already suffering from the medicine and have to take it easy so I don't get to a place of passing out since it is just me home. The good news is I only have a few more weeks of this hopefully!
I have finally decided on a theme for Eli's birthday. He LOVES Curious George so I think we are going to do that. I have a monkey cake picked out and Anthony wants a big yellow hat to wear. I won't be going all out but it will still be fun. Even if I just did monkeys he would think it was Curious George as every monkey's name is George. I think he will enjoy it. I can't believe he will be 2!! Hopefully this baby does not arrive on his birthday or they will sharing a birthday. I don't think it will but who knows.
I have finally decided on a theme for Eli's birthday. He LOVES Curious George so I think we are going to do that. I have a monkey cake picked out and Anthony wants a big yellow hat to wear. I won't be going all out but it will still be fun. Even if I just did monkeys he would think it was Curious George as every monkey's name is George. I think he will enjoy it. I can't believe he will be 2!! Hopefully this baby does not arrive on his birthday or they will sharing a birthday. I don't think it will but who knows.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Cleaning, Starting a Tradition, and Underware
We usually go grocery shopping on Sat or Sunday afternoon but decided to do it last night. I wanted to get out and do some walking and it was a good idea. So today we spent the day lounging, playing with Eli, and doing some cleaning. I guess my nesting hormones are transferring toAnthony because he was in a cleaning mood this morning. I slept in because I was up all night with inconsistant contractions. Anyways, Anthony got out the shop vac and cleaned vents and all sorts of stuff. It was nice to have it done!! I started doing the cob webs and Eli loves doing them but I just can't lift him around to help anymore so Anthony helped him do them. I took these pictures of them doing it because I thought it was cute that Anthony was willing to help him do it.
I have been seeing commercials for crescent roll pizzas for about a month now and always want to make them. So yesterday I decided to get the stuff to make them and thought I would let Eli help. I made my own sauce and then we added pepperoni and mozzerrella cheese to them. As a kid we use to make homemade pizza often. It was always a fun night and something we loved doing. I was lazy and did it the easy way this time! Eli had a blast helping here are some photos of that.
And then he started eating the cheese! Silly boy loves his cheese!
I decided I am going to make this a once a month tradition. As the kids get older they can pick their insides and help make them. We will probably add a fun activity to this such as a board game night or movie night. It brought back a lot of fun childhood memories and Eli had fun doing it.
As I was getting ready to sit down to write this Eli needed to go to the bathroom so I took him in to go. Then I gave him his underware and sent him to the living room to put them on. As I come back in this is what I see.....
Apparantly putting them on meant on his head and sitting in his new rocking chair that Aunt Toni and Trista let him use until he is too big for it (he won't stay out of the baby swing so this was the solution we came up with). It got better from there. Needless to say I was laughing my head off the entire time while taking these photos. He is such a goon and there is never a dull moment around this house that is for sure!!
Friday, February 11, 2011
Long Week!!
My goal this week was to survive! I did it. Anthony was out of town all week so it was just me at almost 38 weeks pregnant and Eli. That seems easy in theory but honestly I was so worn out. I also have been having contractions on and off. Nothing consistent but enough that I have to sometimes stop and just breath. I was ever so glad to see Anthony when he got home. Eli missed him a lot and he was so excited.
Tuesday I got all the stuff from my friend Meghan for the baby to arrive. That made everything more real. We have decided on names I think but will not be telling anybody until the birth so hang in there and wait for the surprise of gender and name:)
The remodel has been a huge source of stress for both Anthony and I. We just do not seem to have the time or should I say Anthony does not have the time. SOOO we finally realized we have another room that is perfectly ok to use. We just use it for storage. It will eventually be Eli's room so it is getting painted new carpet and we are moving into it. Our room now is going to be Eli's room and Eli's room will be the baby's. It will all work and I now we can focus on that.
This week I have been amazed with the amount of stuff Eli is saying his vocabulary is just taking off. He is really starting to use sentences more. He told Anthony yesterday when they were taking a shower that, "the water in my eye hurts." I can't believe he is going to be 2!!! My baby is not a baby anymore. Before I know it will be time for school. I need to get going on planning a birthday for him. We will be having it later as my mom and sister will be here at the end of March and I know they probably will not make it for most birthdays so we choice to do it when they could be here. I need to come up with a theme so if anybody has any good ideas please let me know.
Tuesday I got all the stuff from my friend Meghan for the baby to arrive. That made everything more real. We have decided on names I think but will not be telling anybody until the birth so hang in there and wait for the surprise of gender and name:)
The remodel has been a huge source of stress for both Anthony and I. We just do not seem to have the time or should I say Anthony does not have the time. SOOO we finally realized we have another room that is perfectly ok to use. We just use it for storage. It will eventually be Eli's room so it is getting painted new carpet and we are moving into it. Our room now is going to be Eli's room and Eli's room will be the baby's. It will all work and I now we can focus on that.
This week I have been amazed with the amount of stuff Eli is saying his vocabulary is just taking off. He is really starting to use sentences more. He told Anthony yesterday when they were taking a shower that, "the water in my eye hurts." I can't believe he is going to be 2!!! My baby is not a baby anymore. Before I know it will be time for school. I need to get going on planning a birthday for him. We will be having it later as my mom and sister will be here at the end of March and I know they probably will not make it for most birthdays so we choice to do it when they could be here. I need to come up with a theme so if anybody has any good ideas please let me know.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Busy Weekend
This weekend was so busy but very enjoyable! Friday was spent doing my maternity photos. Which turned out great! I had a lot of fun doing them and I can't wait to get my prints.
I was able to have some girl time with a good friend. She is having her first baby in March so we went and got pedicures and went to Olive Garden for lunch. Now my toes are nice and pretty for labor. Anthony had a good time with Eli and I know he enjoyed just playing with him.
Sunday was a different story. I still did not have my bags packed or any baby stuff organized. It was just washed and thrown in a pile. Well Eli was still sick with a nasty cold and was miserable so we decided to get some groceries real quick and just rest at home. While in the grocery store I began having contractions and just not feeling right like I was in early labor. I was induced with Eli so I had no idea what they feel like at first but after talking to a good friend and then my midwife we decided they were really strong BH or early labor. So yesterday I went into full swing of getting everything done. I accompolished a lot and am very happy. I know it sounds weird but I want another week before I have this baby so I was very grateful when last night at about 11 they stopped. I am sure it will be soon but maybe it won't. Either way the baby has to arrive sometime and D day is coming!!
The goals for this week are to survive and not lose my patience with Eli. I have little patience as everything it seems takes a lot of energy. Today he and I did some crafts so that was fun. I also am hoping to make and freeze some food. We will see how that goes.
I was able to have some girl time with a good friend. She is having her first baby in March so we went and got pedicures and went to Olive Garden for lunch. Now my toes are nice and pretty for labor. Anthony had a good time with Eli and I know he enjoyed just playing with him.
Sunday was a different story. I still did not have my bags packed or any baby stuff organized. It was just washed and thrown in a pile. Well Eli was still sick with a nasty cold and was miserable so we decided to get some groceries real quick and just rest at home. While in the grocery store I began having contractions and just not feeling right like I was in early labor. I was induced with Eli so I had no idea what they feel like at first but after talking to a good friend and then my midwife we decided they were really strong BH or early labor. So yesterday I went into full swing of getting everything done. I accompolished a lot and am very happy. I know it sounds weird but I want another week before I have this baby so I was very grateful when last night at about 11 they stopped. I am sure it will be soon but maybe it won't. Either way the baby has to arrive sometime and D day is coming!!
The goals for this week are to survive and not lose my patience with Eli. I have little patience as everything it seems takes a lot of energy. Today he and I did some crafts so that was fun. I also am hoping to make and freeze some food. We will see how that goes.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
God is Good
A little back ground for those that do not know it. I had severe preeclampsia with Eli. For those that do not know what it is here is a link that you can learn more. http://www.preeclampsia.org/signs-and-symptoms It is very serious and because of this I was not able to have the birth I dreamed and hoped for with Eli. It is rare to get it again but it does happen.
This pregnancy I began showing signs of it with high blood pressure at 26 weeks and was honestly crushed. I do not want another hospital birth or C Section. Thankfully there is an OB that works with my midwives and will take patients and do tandum care. Normally I do not trust OBs. They are trained in surgery and not birth. Midwives are trained in birth. This OB is different though. She has had 6 children her fifth she delivered at home because she came too fast and her 6th baby she just delivered at the birth center with the midwives. The birth center being away from a hospital no Drs. or all sorts of medicine etc. She agreed to take me as a patient and has done tandum care. In the beginning she really thought I was developing preeclampsia and thought I would end up delivering with her. As time went on and with medication it has just been pregnancy induced hypertension or high blood pressure due to pregnancy and is actually very common. It can be controlled with medication. We have been doing just that. Today I had an appointment with her and she said she does not need to see me anymore as she thinks I will be just fine!! God is good and it is a huge answer to prayer. She told me I do not want to see you again and hope I do not have to:) She said I want you to get your dream birth like I had with my child. This is so refreshing to hear from an Ob since most are opposed to home births or anything outside of the hospital. I am so happy about it. I honestly have been planning to deliver in the hospital just to not get my hopes up and so this is just a huge blessing. Hopefully in the next few weeks I will be able to share this baby's birth story that will be so much out of the ordinary as there are no epidurals, pitocin, stirrups, or any other medicine offered with my midwives. I do hope to deliver in a bath tub though.
I was able to get a lot of things done as far as baby. The car seat is installed. I have washed all the gender neutral clothes and blankets. I have the swing and everything out. I just need to put together and organize things. That hopefully will happen tomorrow! It was fun seeing all the newborn stuff again. I forget how small they are. Eli is fascinated with everything and did even help me today. He is going to be such a good big brother!
Eli went to daycare again to play. He had a blast. He was so good today and he and I spent some quiet time this after noon just cuddling and having fun. Then Anthony's other Aunt called to have him come visit for a few hours. He was sooo excited to go. I am so grateful for all the extra help. He sure missed is Daddy today. He would not stop talking about him. When he got home they played as usual and had fun. He is sick with a runny nose and cough though so I am hoping that goes away soon. It never slows him down though. Tomorrow are my maternity pictures. I can't wait to have them done.
This pregnancy I began showing signs of it with high blood pressure at 26 weeks and was honestly crushed. I do not want another hospital birth or C Section. Thankfully there is an OB that works with my midwives and will take patients and do tandum care. Normally I do not trust OBs. They are trained in surgery and not birth. Midwives are trained in birth. This OB is different though. She has had 6 children her fifth she delivered at home because she came too fast and her 6th baby she just delivered at the birth center with the midwives. The birth center being away from a hospital no Drs. or all sorts of medicine etc. She agreed to take me as a patient and has done tandum care. In the beginning she really thought I was developing preeclampsia and thought I would end up delivering with her. As time went on and with medication it has just been pregnancy induced hypertension or high blood pressure due to pregnancy and is actually very common. It can be controlled with medication. We have been doing just that. Today I had an appointment with her and she said she does not need to see me anymore as she thinks I will be just fine!! God is good and it is a huge answer to prayer. She told me I do not want to see you again and hope I do not have to:) She said I want you to get your dream birth like I had with my child. This is so refreshing to hear from an Ob since most are opposed to home births or anything outside of the hospital. I am so happy about it. I honestly have been planning to deliver in the hospital just to not get my hopes up and so this is just a huge blessing. Hopefully in the next few weeks I will be able to share this baby's birth story that will be so much out of the ordinary as there are no epidurals, pitocin, stirrups, or any other medicine offered with my midwives. I do hope to deliver in a bath tub though.
I was able to get a lot of things done as far as baby. The car seat is installed. I have washed all the gender neutral clothes and blankets. I have the swing and everything out. I just need to put together and organize things. That hopefully will happen tomorrow! It was fun seeing all the newborn stuff again. I forget how small they are. Eli is fascinated with everything and did even help me today. He is going to be such a good big brother!
Eli went to daycare again to play. He had a blast. He was so good today and he and I spent some quiet time this after noon just cuddling and having fun. Then Anthony's other Aunt called to have him come visit for a few hours. He was sooo excited to go. I am so grateful for all the extra help. He sure missed is Daddy today. He would not stop talking about him. When he got home they played as usual and had fun. He is sick with a runny nose and cough though so I am hoping that goes away soon. It never slows him down though. Tomorrow are my maternity pictures. I can't wait to have them done.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Snow, Snow, and More Snow
As anticipated we got a lot of snow! We have never lived on the main street when we get this much snow until this year. It was interesting to see what all goes on with the plows and snow removal. They piled a huge pile right in front of my mailbox and if you know me NOBODY interferes with my mail until it comes for the day. I have even asked little elderly ladies to move their cars for parades until the mail comes so I do not miss getting it. Yes I love getting mail. They did say they were going to load it up and move it which they did. In the mean time Eli played on it while he and Anthony shoveled. It was fun to watch. He adores his daddy and loves to copy whatever Anthony does. 
I miss not living in Idaho because of missing my family but Anthony's family is such a blessing. They are always so willing to take Eli whenever we need a break. Eli goes to Aunt Toni's to play with the daycare kids. Everybody loves having him there and will always take him in a heartbeat. He enjoys going too which is very nice. Many days I don't think my sanity would survive without Aunt Toni and her willingness to take him whenever I need. All of Anthony's family is willing to take him whenever they can she just has him more because of her daycare and it is such a blessing. All that being said Eli went there today and that let Anthony and I get some things done without getting interrupted which was soo nice!! I am feeling better about things. I was able to get the majority of my list done and will spend tomorrow working on baby things:) Anthony also worked on the house and did our taxes. It was very nice.
Eli came home and wanted to use markers. He has never used them before. This was the end result.
The second picture he got in trouble for biting the marker and I captured this scream. I thought it was funny he did not. I am so mean since I always have the camera out I know but one day his children will appreciate it:)
The all time funniest thing that happened today was a moment at dinner. I looked down realizing my belly is huge and about ready to pop it seems. So I said oh my belly is taking over. Eli then proceeds to pat his stomach and told us it was his belly. Then he pointed to me and says, "Mommy's belly is big!!" HAHA Anthony thought he was saying there was a baby in my belly and I said no he said its BIG!! LOL Gotta love kids. It was a nice enjoyable productive day and the snow was beautiful to see.
I miss not living in Idaho because of missing my family but Anthony's family is such a blessing. They are always so willing to take Eli whenever we need a break. Eli goes to Aunt Toni's to play with the daycare kids. Everybody loves having him there and will always take him in a heartbeat. He enjoys going too which is very nice. Many days I don't think my sanity would survive without Aunt Toni and her willingness to take him whenever I need. All of Anthony's family is willing to take him whenever they can she just has him more because of her daycare and it is such a blessing. All that being said Eli went there today and that let Anthony and I get some things done without getting interrupted which was soo nice!! I am feeling better about things. I was able to get the majority of my list done and will spend tomorrow working on baby things:) Anthony also worked on the house and did our taxes. It was very nice.
Eli came home and wanted to use markers. He has never used them before. This was the end result.
The all time funniest thing that happened today was a moment at dinner. I looked down realizing my belly is huge and about ready to pop it seems. So I said oh my belly is taking over. Eli then proceeds to pat his stomach and told us it was his belly. Then he pointed to me and says, "Mommy's belly is big!!" HAHA Anthony thought he was saying there was a baby in my belly and I said no he said its BIG!! LOL Gotta love kids. It was a nice enjoyable productive day and the snow was beautiful to see.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)