Merry Christmas!

I never did send out Christmas cards this year...but if I had, this would have been the picture on them:) We hope you all had a very Merry Christmas!

Our family had a wonderful Christmas with family. We did lots of visiting, cooking, eating, and the kids got way too many gifts, including a Nintendo Wii from Santa! They were all very surprised and happy.

Josie took her first trip to the mall to visit Santa, and she wasn't even scared. She did, however, try to pull on his suspender.

Here's Kaden dressed up in his Nerf Dart Tag gear that him and Brendyn got from Santa. He added his winter hat and gloves to the outfit for added effect. HA!

We were lucky enough to have Sarah and Sterling and the kids stay with us for FOUR nights! The kids had sooo much fun playing with all the new toys, and Sarah and I got to do a lot of catching up...and shopping:) Brett and Sterling played with Brett's new remote control helicopter until it broke when it crashed into the ceiling (don't worry, Sterling, I won't mention who did it!) Oh, and by the way, they fixed it and it works fine.

Joseph and Josie had a blast smiling at each other and rolling around on the floor. Josie was a little confused as to why she couldn't grab Joseph and bite him like she does everything else, but some day she'll understand. They were so cute together, and it was so amazing to realize how fast they are growing! We are just trying to enjoy every minute with our little babies.

Here's all the big kids having popcorn on the couch over the weekend...talk about growing fast!!

Maybe She Does Like It...

...when she feeds herself!!

Who'da Thunk It??

This is what Josie thinks of rice cereal...for that matter, it's what she thinks of oatmeal, bananas, and applesauce also! She doesn't care to eat solids at all yet, who'da thunk it??

Here's Josie with her two fangs (just like her big brothers looked as babies:) Oh, and tonight I noticed a brand new tooth, one of the front ones! Her and Kaden are both getting them in at the same time...again, who'da thunk it??

"Wow, I have toes!" Who'da thunk it?

And look, my two boys who so badly wanted a little brother actually love their little sister...who'da thunk it??

Check Out Those Eyelashes!!

She doesn't get those from her mama!

Miscellaneous month!

It's been a whole month since I've posted, but here's what's going on...

• We spent a day at High Cliff picnicing, playing football, playing with sticks, and climbing trees. It reminded me of what we did all the time when I was little:) Everyone had a lot of fun.
• Jordan finished up his flag football season and went undefeated, 6-0!
• Josie got her first THREE teeth! She also rolled over once:)
• We carved pumpkins!
• Sarah and Sonia came to visit with their babies and the time went way too fast. I'll post pictures from that when I download them (I'm a little behind if you haven't noticed).

Anyway, more to come as soon as I get a chance!!

Josie's Slideshow

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Three Months Old!

Here is my sweet little Josie...3 months old already! I took these pictures in the back yard the other day, it was so much fun! She is now eating 5 ounces at a time, sleeping all night most of the time, and cooing like crazy. We are all enjoying her so much. We thank God for her every day, and we can't imagine what we ever did without her!

Packer Thursday!

Well, like it or not, I have another Packer fan in the house:) The boys were so excited to get Josie in her little Packer outfit for the preseason Packer game tonight! (The outfit is actually on loan from Josie's cousin, Charlotte.) Apparantly, she loves the idea and is ready to cheer on the Packers!

We are all doing fine...as you can see, Josie is growing like crazy. Now at 3 months old, she is sleeping 8-10 hours at night...WHEW!! The kids are getting ready for school, (I've been ready for them to start for weeks!!) and Jordan is starting flag football! As summer comes to an end, we are looking forward to a brand new season...I'm looking forward to the fall season, and the boys are looking forward to football season!

The Things Kids Say!!

I was tucking Kaden in bed the other night and we started having a little conversation...you know, those random thoughts that go through a 7 year old's head when they are suppose to be going to sleep? Well, we got on the subject of how God made the world along with the very first people on earth.

Kaden said, "yeah, you know, Odd and Even."

Well, close...Adam and Eve, Odd and Even...same thing, right?!!

Two Months Old!!

Josie had her 2 month check up last Friday. She's up to 10lbs 12oz and 22.25 inches long already! She's gaining perfectly and is a very good baby! It's a lot of fun having a little baby in the house and we are all enjoying her very much. The time if flying by as I knew it would, but I am soaking up every precious moment with my baby girl. She has begun to smile at us, you know, real smiles and not just sleepy ones. She goes between 5 and 6 hours at night so we are able to get a little more sleep. And I have lots of help, especially from her big brother, Kaden, who is there every time I turn around talking to and playing with his little sister. It is the sweetest thing I've ever seen. She truly is a miracle and we are very blessed to have our healthy little Josie:)

Miscellaneous Thursday

Ok, so I know it's been over a month since I last posted! But life has been a whirlwind around here. We are all doing fine, but we are recovering from an unexpected loss. Brett's Dad passed away on Saturday, June 30th from a massive heart attack. Last week was filled with all the activities involved with laying him to rest. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers, little by little, God will heal the pain left behind.

Needless to say, over the last month we have been very busy with our new little one. I've been trying to focus on the important things and on letting some things go (which I got very good at on bed rest:) Jordan looked outside at the lawn at one point and said, "the grass is longer than my hair!" If you've seen Jordan lately, that will be funny to you...he's going through that long hair phase. My thought is that we will have the rest of our lives for perfect landscaping, and a clean house, right now...the kids are what's important! I'm trying to enjoy every moment of being a mother of 5 children, and so far so good.

Summer is flying by so fast, I can't believe it's already half over! The kids have spent lots of time in the sandbox and sprinkler, and next week, Jordan will be starting a football camp! We haven't been able to get out and do a whole lot with Josie, but we've found enough to do around here to keep everyone out of trouble for the most part.

Josie is doing great, eating every 2 to 3 hours...sometimes going 4 or even 5 at night! She will be 8 weeks old on Saturday already, amazing! She is a very good baby, and loves being held. We don't know what we ever did without her:) Her Baptism was the last Sunday in June...it was a wonderful day.

Here are a couple pics, I plan on adding more soon...and hopefully before another month has gone by!

Brendyn's Birthday
Sleeping like a baby!

Josie's Baptism

Things NOT in the instruction manual...

Wait, what manual??!! That's right, babies don't come with an instruction manual, but if they did, here are some things you probably would NOT find in it...

• When changing a diaper, be sure to put the new diaper under the old one BEFORE opening the dirty one. Babies are known to pee when air hits them, and they will poop more every time you try to wipe their pooper..so have 3 or 4 diapers ready at every diaper change as well as a new outfit or two just in case. Especially in the middle of the night when this is more likely to occur.
• Speaking of diaper changes, do not be alarmed if it sounds like an explosion when your baby poops. This is perfectly normal and does not cause your baby any harm.
• Speaking of explosions, make sure to put diapers on rather snuggly. Things have a very creative way of sneaking out!
• When feeding a bottle, have a burp rag handy to catch all the spills so you don't have to change the baby's outfit. Babies can be very drippy.
• Babies make lots and lots of laundry, so be prepared to do it!
• When picking up a hungry baby, beware of what comes near their mouth, they will try to suck on anything. Your only warning is a wide open mouth swinging violently back and forth searching for anything that remotely resembles a nipple of any kind.
• Don't be alarmed by sounds that the baby makes in her sleep, they may range anywhere from little grunting noises, to what may sound like a sheep, a puppy, or even a machine gun. These are completely normal and no cause for concern.
• Even though your newborn may be so soundly alseep that she will not move a muscle no matter what you do to her, it is perfectly normal for her to wake up the moment you lay her down in her own bed.
• Babies love to be swaddled in a blanket tightly when put to bed, but no matter how tightly you wrap them, the baby will always find a way to get her arms out of the blanket when upset to she can flail them around while grunting and trying to suck on them.
• A poopy diaper is almost always directly followed by a look of contentment in the baby's eyes and what I call "a cheerio face" where the lips make an O shape. No one knows why this happens, but it is extremely common.
• Babies most frequently poop in a clean diaper right after a diaper change.
• Do not be alarmed by strange facial expressions during sleep that can change from one second to the next. The baby may be smiling one second, rolling her eyes the next, and whimpering the next. This is just practice for the teen age years and research has shown that it is perfectly normal.
• Parents should adjust their lives so that they can find a way to function on very little sleep, 4 to 5 hours a night is normal for the first few months if not more after your baby comes home. Just suck it up.
• So to sum up, between the laundry, feedings, diaper changes and lack of sleep, enjoy your infant...they are only little for a short time:)

Happy Birthday to Kaden!

Kaden turned 7 last Thursday! We had a little get together with a couple friends on Monday to celebrate. His little sister came home the day before his birthday...from the look on his face in the picture, I think he got what he wanted:)

He's been so sweet with Josie, asking to hold her all the time and doing whatever he can to help, including giving her her nuk when she cries in the car (his seat is next to hers). He is so proud to be a big brother and can't wait to teach his little sister all kinds of things, like how to brush her teeth (when she gets some), how to talk, how to ride a scooter, and many many more things.

I can't believe my baby boy is already 7 years old! He's growing into such a sweet, caring, helpful, loving and smart young man...I couldn't be prouder of him! Happy birthday, Kaden!

Finally Where She Belongs:)

After doing an excellent job of eating for the past day and a half and gaining over another ounce (up to 5lbs 8.7oz), Josie was allowed to come home yesterday! We are so happy to finally have her home with us, where she belongs!

When we got her home, she looked around as if thinking, "there is more in the world than the hospital!" Before bedtime, Daddy took her out on the deck and she was just in awe watching the trees moving against the sky! She also loved looking around at her new room. It's amazing thinking of all the things she has never seen before:) It's even more amazing that we get to be there as she discovers all of the wonderful things on this earth, and as she learns all there is to learn.

The only thing better than having a baby, is bringing them home:)

Close to Coming Home!

Josie has been doing better and better every day! Her breathing issues have been resolved for a while now, and her bilirubin stayed low enough that she didn't have to go under the bili lights! She was moved from her isolet to an open crib a couple days ago and has been holding her temperature just fine.

The last issue was her feeding. She had still been using a feeding tube that was placed in her nose up until today. She was eating about half of her minimum feedings, then they put the rest in through the tube. I was allowed to try nursing 2 times per day, but that takes more energy in many cases than the bottle, so right now the bottle is the priority. We will work more on nursing later...I'm not too worried about it since she is really good at it! The way they explain it is that preemies don't have the stamina to do all the things they are expected to do, like breath, regulate their temp, and eat...all things they shouldn't have to do yet. So she just didn't have the energy to eat.

That all changed last night, it was as if something clicked all of a sudden! She started downing her bottles, all 50ml (just under 2 oz), in under 15 minutes. She continued to do this all day, most of the time even waking up hungry before the scheduled feeding time. So the doc put her on an "on demand" schedule and if she does well she may be home as early as tomorrow! We were so happy to hear this, it seems like she's been in the NICU forever! Her weight had gone down to 5lb 3oz, but is now up to 5lb 7oz...just 2oz away from her birth weight, so she's doing great! Please pray that she keeps right on eating and growing and that she can come home soon!

Josie has Arrived!!

Josie made her appearance on Saturday morning at 9:32 am! Labor started just before midnight on Friday night, the doc broke my water at 7:40 am on Saturday and she was born after about one and a half pushes (and a couple of screams) at 9:32! She weighed in at 5 lbs. 9 oz and was 18 inches long. She came out like a firecracker, kicking and screaming.

She did well initially but about 3 to 4 hours after birth she started struggling with her breathing. She was sent to the NICU. She is still there but her breathing issues have resolved. She had been receiving fluids and antibiotics in case of infection through an umbilical line. She also had an arterial line in the umbilical cord to take blood and check blood pressure. Her blood cultures came back fine though so the antibiotics have been discontinued. And now that her feedings have increased enough she doesn't need the IV fluid. So both lines are now out. She is using a feeding tube for part of her feedings because she isn't ready to eat everything on her own like they want her to yet.

So now it is basically a matter of getting her to eat enough to let her go home:) They are also keeping an eye on her bilirubin levels, which indicate the extent of jaundice she has. It has been creeping up the last couple of days so she may need to go under the bili lights.

I was discharged yesterday and it was hard to go home without her. But I'm very greatful that she is doing as well as she is. She is where she needs to be, and it won't be long and she will be right here with us.

The Waiting Game

Can I just say that having a baby at zero station is NOT comfortable! Just when I'm not so nervous to get up and do a couple of things, I don't want to because it just plain hurts. I would also like to add that people who refer to the feeling as "pressure" just have it all wrong...it's pain!

I called my doctor's office yesterday because of the increase in this "pressure" and because I had been having 6-8 contractions per hour for most of the day. HE TOLD ME TO STAY HOME, drink plenty of fluids, and rest! I laughed when the nurse told me this and said that was the first time I had been told to not come in when I called about contractions and pressure since I had been pregnant! I was glad I got to stay home, yet nervous that something was going on and I wouldn't find out in time! But something hit me after that phone call...they are not worried about the baby coming anymore! If she's coming, she's coming! What a realization.

So I get to wait now like any normal pregnant woman for regular, more frequent contractions to come. Although I will be taking the Procardia for a few more days to prevent labor, you never know:) It seems to be effective at times, and then other times not so much. I feel like I have been in labor for the past 3 months...the meds have just slowed it down. I'm excited but a little nervous to stop taking them, because I know what's going to happen!

1...35 Week Appointment

So the countdown to 35 weeks is over! We made it! No more IV meds to stop labor, no more hospital stays!

Today I had an ultrasound and a check up. Josie is measuring 5 pounds 8 ounces, right around the 40th percentile so that's right about where she should be! She is very low (zero station) and I have dilated to what my doc calls 2 cm and what my nurses would call 3 or 4cm. With all my time in the hospital, I learned that my doctor usually measures centimeters at about 2 less than most of the nurses in labor and delivery...for reasons that no one clearly understands:) He thinks I'm going to go quick once I do go because the baby is so low.

I am suppose to remain on the Procardia and try Terbutaline if that isn't working for the next week. After that, no more meds. I'm also suppose to stay off of my feet for one more week...that's going to be hard to do! My instructions are to head to the hospital if I feel anything different or more painful. Trouble is I didn't have painful labors with the boys until my water broke, then after that it went really quick. I hope I know when it's time to go in...preferably before my water breaks!!

Two months ago I would never have thought we would have made it to 35 weeks! I went from assuming that our baby would have to spend considerable time in the NICU, to actually having hope that she would be able to come home with us right away. During that time my fear, anxiety, depression, and despair slowly turned to hope, peace, relief, and now to complete happiness. I am so entirely grateful not only that my long ordeal is coming to an end, but that I was able to play such an important role in a miracle.

4...3...2...Maternity Pictures!

I got out of the hospital on Friday just after noon! I was so relieved to be out of there! They had turned the mag completely off at 6:30am and I was still doing fine so I was given my freedom. My doc said I didn't need to start taking the Procardia unless I started having contractions, which I did within a few hours of being home...which was no surprise. It took a while for it to kick in but after a couple hours it did the trick.

Yesterday was the best day I've had in months! We went to the mall and Brett and I had maternity pictures taken, something I didn't think we would get the chance to do! Check them out below! We had all the kids and they had fun taking turns pushing me in a wheelchair. You would be surprise how fast people get out of your way when they see a kid pushing a pregnant woman in a wheelchair! Then we got some lunch in the mall and did a little baby shopping:)

The contractions acted up again since I was a little late taking my meds and they took a long time to settle down. But I can say that now I'm out of the woods as far as being stuck back in the hospital. My doc is keeping me on the oral meds for the next week, but if they aren't working they will let her come! It would be best if she waits one more week, but it's out of my hands...and secretly my feeling on the subject can be summed up in 3 words. Bring it on!!

6...5...

Yesterday he turned the mag down to 1.5 and today to 1 gram. So far so good...tomorrow it gets shut off at 6:30am sharp! If the contractions stay calm I should get out of here tomorrow at some point. If not, he may turn it back on until Monday (which is the day they have me turning 35 weeks, I have Tuesday, but I'm not arguing). Here's hoping for a weekend at home!

Guesses anyone??

So, assuming I'm off all meds by next Monday or Tuesday, when do you think Josie will be born? Leave a comment and post your vote or email me! Take a guess at her weight and length if you want, too:) Who knows, might be fun!

7...

Seven more days to 35 weeks! Things remain stable on 2 grams of the mag. Hopefully this will continue tomorrow when he tries to wean me off of it! I'm assuming I will be at 1.5 for a day and then 1 for another day before I'm off of it, but it all depends on how the contractions do.

Last night the boys came up for a visit, and they made me more pictures for my wall. I'll try to post pictures of my wall later:) It's pretty cool. It was like a tornado in my room for a while with all the action, but settled down quickly as Brett got them packed up to go home. Jordan still wishes the doctors and nurses could just come to our house...aww...his way of saying he misses mom.

Then this morning I got a call from Brett about his adventures in getting the boys off to school. All I have to say is that, once again, I'll have to whip them back into shape when I get home! But what are you gonna do??

So Josie, 7 more days, then let's get a move on. Seriously, bring it on! I talked to the nurse this morning again and she verified that by 35 weeks most doctors will let you deliver because by this point it doesn't pay to continue fighting what your body has been trying to do. And there also might be a reason the baby needs out that they just don't know. There is so much about preterm labor that they don't understand, but 35 weeks appears to be the point that the benefits of birth outweigh the risks.

Back in for the Final Countdown!

Last Wednesday I had a dr. appointment, and not surprisingly, I was having contractions again. He sent me up to the hospital, and I've been here since. I hadn't been able to take my next dose of Terbutaline because my heart rate was too high, and my contractions starting coming every 2 minutes! After I was able to take Terb. it didn't help enough and they were still every 7-8 minutes...so they hooked me back up to the Magnesium Sulfate.

I continued contracting every 10-15 minutes all day, and it got pretty painful. Later in the night the contractions got more frequent again and they had to turn the mag up from 2 grams to 3 grams. Between the contractions and the headache from the meds, I couldn't sleep. I finally dozed between 5am and 6am...not a fun night!

When I woke up at 6am I felt really funny, like I was going to pass out. My blood pressure was really low so they had to turn the mag down to 2.5 and later to 2 grams. It took the whole day to feel better but by bedtime my head didn't hurt so bad and I could see relatively straight.

I was really thinking there for a while that Josie was going to make her appearance, but through it all, my cervix remained relativelay the same and she stayed put. Although I would have been relieved to have this over, I'm glad she was able to stay in the best place she could be for a little longer.

I've been at 2 grams of the mag ever since and doing better. The doctor came in this morning and said that on Wednesday he will start weaning me off of the magnesium. Then I may go back on the oral meds for a few days. But after 35 weeks he won't stop labor anymore! This means 8 more days max in the hospital (except for the birth of course). I'm hoping that I may even get out of here for the weekend to enjoy Mother's Day at home with the kids...but I'm not holding my breath. So, assuminig we make it the next 8 days, she could come anytime after that!

So the countdown begins...Kaden, Jordan, and Brett helped me make a "Countdown to 35 Weeks" to put on the wall in my hospital room. I love seeing those numbers get crossed off! Kaden spent the Friday night up here with me (we had a lot of fun:) and the first thing he said to me in the morning was, "Mom, can I cross off the 11?" He's in a hurry for Mom to get to come home, too:)

That light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter!

Home Again, Home Again

The contractions weren't letting up yesterday, and they were starting to be more painful, so I had yet another trip into labor and delivery. My cervix has started to dilate a little bit more, and I'm 75% effaced. The baby is at -1 station, which for those of you not familiar with that terminology, it means she's really low. The contractions actually picked up once I got there and they were 3-6 minutes apart for a couple hours. The Terbutaline shot they had given me on top of the Procardia wasn't working, but for some reason, the oral terb seemed to do the trick. I was kept overnight and since things were still calm in the morning, we got to go home:)

So much for the negative fetal fibronectin test! This is what you call labor...contractions that cause cervical changes. My doc said those tests are "crap". If he believed that test, Josie probably would have arrived by now:)

So the plan is to keep me on the oral Terb for a couple days and try the Procardia again. Terb will raise my blood sugar so I can't be on it for too long. Just 2 more weeks would be great. Although one nurse in the hospital told me her daughter was born at 34 weeks and came home with her after 2 days, I know this is not the most likely scenario. And even though I cannot wait for this to be over with, the longer the better. And we are only at 33 weeks today.

By the way, I love little Josie with all my heart, and she is so worth all of this! But there will NOT be a next time, just in case you were wondering!

Kids Say the Darndest Things!

Check this out...my sister, Sarah, posted this on her blog about what her daughter had to say after feeling her baby move. (She's 21 weeks pregnant today!) It is so cute, I had to share:)

It was the cutest thing this morning. I was laying in bed and the baby started moving around and I called Noah in - she's been waiting for this moment for a while. She came in laid down on the bed next to me and put her hand on my tummy. Sure enough, he gave her a big ol' kick! She was so surprised and said, "He's probably trying to figure out how to get out of there and saying LET ME OUT OF HERE!". I said, "Well it will probably take him until about 40 weeks to figure out how to get out of there." Right away she said, "Yeah, unless he's really smart like Aunt Julie's baby!" **grin**

Another Trip...

Last night at 2am I got up to take my meds as usual...by 2:30 I started having contractions. They were every 8-10 minutes for an hour, then they got closer together over the next half hour. They were every 5 minutes when I called the doc at 4am, and of course, he said to go right in to labor and delivery. So I called my friend to come over to stay with the kids and we left.

They hooked me up to the monitor right away and the contractions were every 3 to 5 minutes. My doc wasn't available over the weekend so we got the doctor on call. He ordered a fetal fibronectin test which can predict your chance of going into labor over the next 2 weeks, as well as a urine culture. The nurse also checked my cervix, which hadn't changed, thankfully! The contractions continued for a couple hours and he didn't want to give me anything to stop them until the results of the tests came back.

It was frustrating because my doctor would probably not have done the fetal fibronectin test at all since he doesn't rely on them, and neither did our high risk ob that we had seen. He has been more aggressive at stopping the contractions, especially since he knows my cervix has recently changed with not many contractions at all. He would rather stop contractions than risk them changing my cervix more, since there's no way to know when that will happen, and because we don't want to have the baby for a couple more weeks! But since the results were negative for both tests, the doc on call just said I could go home. The contractions had slowed down, but they were still at the point where if I were at home that I should call! So I said, well, when do I come back then? The nurse said if I have them for 2 hours or more to call and come back in. So we went home.

I know my doctor would have kept me there a while longer until the contractions were slower, just to make sure. Being under the care of another doctor that is not as familiar with my history makes me nervous! I can't wait until Monday when my doc will be back around!

But for now, I am glad that the test was negative, that means I am unlikely to deliver in the next 2 weeks. Even though my doc would not change treatment based on that test, it is still somewhat reassuring. And after we got home, the contractions did slow down a little more. So hopefully things will stay settled down for a while yet...we shall wait and see, what more can we do?

32 Weeks and Ultrasound

Two days ago we hit our big goal of 32 weeks! It is at this milestone that babies have a much lower risk of long term difficulties from being born too early. While this is a great point to be at, we still want at least two more weeks! It would mean the difference between leaving the hospital with Josie, or having to leave her there for a few weeks.

Yesterday we had an ultrasound to check on the size of the baby as well as cervical length...we got good news and bad news. Josie weighs appoximataly 4 pounds 10 ounces, which is just a little bit above average, so wonderful news! However, although I have not dilated past 1cm, my cervix has become very short. It measured about 3.5 cm at the last ultrasound but is now down to 1cm. I also have been feeling a lot of pressure and have been having a few more contractions lately, so the doctor hooked me up to the monitor for a little while. I had one contraction in about 15 minutes, so he sent us up to the hospital to be monitored for a few hours. I had around 4 to 5 contractions an hour for the first couple hours, then they picked up a little for long enough for me to need a shot of terbutaline. They took a couple hours to settle down, but did not come back after the terbutaline wore off so we got to go home around 6pm.

I'm so glad we didn't have to stay, but nervous that the time is near. It seems like the Procardia isn't working like it did for a while, which we were afraid of. I have strict orders to remain on bedrest and go in with more than 4 contractions in an hour. Just a couple more weeks...please!!

Josie's Room!

We had a wonderful weekend...thanks to those of you that came over and offered your time to help us get ready for the baby! Everything got crossed off of the list and it is such a relief to have all of those things done that I haven't been able to do. Not only is our house neater than I think I've ever seen it, but Josie's room is all ready for her!

Aunt Sonia did almost all of the painting, and Aunt Sarah sewed the curtains and quilt. Grandpa set up the crib and did numerous other projects around here. Grandma brought tons of food and did lots of laundry and cleaning. Uncle Jerry and Aunt Bonnie brought and prepared lunch. They also brought us a freezer that my parents no longer needed, and Jerry and Grandpa even put in an extra outlet in the garage for it! Jerry also helped Grandpa with his projects...oh, and he even knows his way around the kitchen...imagine that! Bonnie, and Sarah's friend, Stephanie worked hard at dusting, vacuuming, and scrubbing throughout the entire house! Thank you all soooo much for all of your hard work, we will surely never forget everything you did for us!

Here are some pictures of Josie's room...

31 Weeks!

Yesterday I hit 31 weeks! It has been an uneventful week, with very few contractions. I had a doctor's appointment today and I was in and out of there in a few minutes:) Nothing new to report. Next week we have an ultrasound to check on the size of the baby, so I'll have more news then. Let's hope for another boring week!

Daddy

So the other day after Brett had a doctor's appointment, he came home and told me all about an article he read in the waiting room about tips for parents with babies. He said he learned all about something where you wrap the baby up tight in a blanket and they like it. I said, "you mean swaddling?" He said, "yeah, that's it."

Then he proceeded to tell me about this carrier thing that you can put the baby in and carry her around the house with you as you do dishes, laundry, and whatever chores you have to do. He said how the baby likes to be close to you so if you use it they tend to cry less and are happier babies. I said, "you mean a baby sling that I told you about a few days ago when I mentioned I wanted to try one?" He said, "uh, yeah." Guess I know NOT to talk to him while he's watching TV or is on his computer:)

Oh boy...do I have my work cut out for me! Granted, it has been a long time since Brett's kids were babies, and he was younger than I was when he had his kids...but he's going to need some training! As most of you know, I was trained in the art of newborn care when I was only 10 when my niece, Kristen, was born! And ever since then, I had lots and lots and lots of practice with babies and children of all ages. It's like riding a bike, at least for me...and I'm sure hoping some of those things come back to Brett as he becomes a Daddy all over again:)

In his defense, Brett has done his best to take care of me and the kids throughout this pregnancy, and it hasn't been easy! We were still adjusting to married life together with 4 children, when the 5th little one started reeking havoc...and it has been a lot for all of us to deal with. He has had to completely take over the laundry, cooking, dishes, cleaning, shopping, not to mention tending to the kids' needs (and did I mention we have 4 of them!) While he's trying to do all of these things, he's also dealing with a demanding business that is in the process of expanding. He's usually working or we have the kids, which leaves little time for household chores. When I get frustrated that things aren't getting taken care of around here, he plainly admits, "I'm just not as good at this stuff as you are!"

Of course, we have the kids helping out, and I must say that they are becoming very capable little helpers! I can look past the piles of laundry that need to be folded and put away, I can ignore the dirty kitchen floor and even our pig sty of a bathroom (and bedroom), I can stay upstairs so I don't have to even look at the basement, and I can close the door to the baby's room so I don't start painting...but boy, I sure am glad I have my sisters, brothers, parents, and girlfriends, coming over this weekend to help out! It's getting harder and harder to lay here and do nothing when so much needs to be done, so I thank God for all of you and everything you've offered to do! It will definitely help to keep me from breaking all my rules...and remain somewhat sane for just a little longer. And for that Brett thanks you, too!

You know what they say, "When Mama's not happy...nobody's happy!"

Little Josie...we all love you very much, but Daddy will be very relieved when you arrive safely and Mommy can actually get off this couch do something:)

Dr. Appointment...Good News!

I just got back from my weekly doctors appointment and have reassuring news. Although I was having a few more contractions in the last few days than I had been, and I was feeling a lot of pressure...my cervix is behaving itself and remains unchanged! Still at one centimeter, so that's great! The baby's head is very low, but so far so good:)

I also met with the nutritionist. She tweaked a few things with my diet...I was skipping some carbs at supper time to keep my numbers low enough, but she didn't want me doing that. If my glucose goes too high, then I will need to be put on meds to control it, but bottom line is that I have to make sure to eat enough. She said to spread the carbs out more if necessary, but getting them all in is important for my nutrition and the baby's. I can handle being told to eat more! So we'll see how that goes, and check back in in two weeks.

Good appointment...good day:)

A Light at the End of the Tunnel

Almost 30 weeks - YEAH! I'm starting to actually enjoy some parts of this pregnancy a little. My favorite part is feeling Josie moving, she's very strong, sometimes her kicks even hurt. But it makes me a little less worried about her:) I'm getting use to the restricted diet and have become quite good at controlling my sugar levels...although I can't wait to eat something sweet!

We had a nice Easter here at home, the boys came home at 2 and Mom and Dad came for a visit, of course, with a few little baby gifts. Dad took the boys to McDonalds to use a gift card they got for Easter, Jordan begged to go. And later Brett and I had KFC...YUM!

I can't wait for the next 11 days to go by! My sisters, my brother and his wife, Brett's dad, and others will be here to work on Josie's room...everything needs to be done yet - EVERYTHING! They are also planning on doing some cleaning and laundry if there is time. They might even get to the garage! What a huge help...and relief!

By then I will be almost 32 weeks...my next big goal! I'm sure I'm going to cry as this all becomes more real. There will actually be a real little baby girl here soon, right here in my arms. I'll admit, it's taken a long time for this to sink in with all of the difficulties I have had...but now, finally, a light at the end of the tunnel!

Things I Will Never Take For Granted Again...

walking outside to get the mail

taking my time in the shower

driving anywhere

getting up to hunt for the remote myself

grocery shopping

doing laundry or even cleaning

making dinner for my family

playing a game at the table with the kids

eating as many cheetos as I want

going for a walk in the sunshine

getting up when my son says, "Mom, come look!"

being there for school events

going to the doctor with my boys instead of finding someone to take them

walking to the park with my family

going on vacation

wearing make up

getting a haircut

not getting up in the middle of the night to take medication

going to a movie or out to dinner

standing by the window watching the kids playing outside

dancing

cutting the grass

going to church

chocolate and cake and pie and ice cream

sisters and girlfriends who get it

holding a healthy baby

29 Weeks and Still Home!

Today I am 29 weeks pregnant...and I'm still home!!! Things have been ok since I got out of the hospital, one night was touch and go for a while, but I didn't have to go back in...WHEW! We had all 4 kids over the weekend, and we all survived. I can definitely tell that I have been away from home...lets just leave it at that. I'll have plenty of time to whip them all back into shape when I can get off this couch:) For now, I'm happy to be here and not in the hospital.

Later this afternoon I have an appointment with my doctor, so if there are any changes, I'll let you know. But for now, I'm liking this boring routine:)

Broken finger!

While I was in the hospital yet, Jordan showed me his finger and said, "Look, Mom, my finger's bent!" Apparently a couple weeks earlier he hurt it when he caught a football! He never mentioned it to me until then and said it didn't hurt too bad. Well, I made him an appointment with the doctor and his Grandpa brought him in. Sure enough, it was broken! A tiny piece of the bone in the joint had broken off. They straightened it out (ouch!) and put a splint on it. He said it only hurt for a little bit...what a tough kid!

Our doc sent him to a specialist to make sure he didn't need surgery or anything else, probably because it was broken for a couple weeks and had started healing the wrong way. The specialist said it would be fine, he just has to wear the splint for 6 weeks. He can even play sports to some degree but does have some limitations.

What did Jordan have to say about all of this?? "Well, at least I made it until I was 11 before breaking any bones!" We all know he did much better than I did, I think I was on my 3rd cast by then:) Not to mention my broken toe...thanks Jerry! HA!

Home...

Yesterday afternoon around 1pm I got the ok to go home! My contractions had started up again after the magnesium was shut off, not too bad but more than they wanted to see. So my doc put me back on Procardia...and so far so good. For now it seems to be doing the trick, so he said it was worth at least giving it a try at home. He said he knows I can feel my contractions and I'm good about calling if I get too many, so he's ok with that.

The boys didn't know I was coming home, so when they got home from school, they were really surprised...I will never forget the look on their faces. I even got a hug from Jordan (who gives them very sparingly at his age!) Kaden snuggled up by me for a long time, and so did Jordan. Jordan got me all caught up on what he's been working on in school, and Kaden and I did his homework together! Even though I'm still stuck on the couch, it's great to be home and back to "normal"...whatever that is:)

Hopefully things will stay settled down for at least a few more weeks, because at this point, Brett would have to drag me back to the hospital!

Thanks to everyone who visited me in the hospital, you really helped out more than you even know to make my stay a little bit easier. And thank you also for all of your prayers! We have made it through the most critical part of this pregnancy, and I know we didn't do it alone!

A Chance to go Home??!!

I did well last night, very few contractions, so today around noon, the doc said it was ok to shut off the magnesium sulfate completely! They capped off the IV and left it in just in case. Around 4:30 this afternoon, I was having a few more contractions than he wanted to see, although nothing too bad, so he started me on Procardia (my last chance to stay off the mag and go home!) Since then things have been pretty quiet, thankfully! I'm hoping this will continue through the night. If it does, tomorrow MAY be the day I go home...but we shall see. The Procardia worked for me before, but not for too long.

I have started getting use to the gestational diabetes and all things that go along with it. I had great blood glucose levels after my meals all day, so I think I have a good start on the whole thing!

Home sounds so good right now! Even though I would still be on bedrest, I can't wait to be there to see the boys like I use to! They are doing well, but only seeing them for a few hours a week sucks...that is the worst part of all of this. I just want to be their mom again.

Magnesium Decrease and Test Results...

Yesterday, the mag was decreased to 1.5 grams and I did well except for one stretch in the night. The nurse woke me up at 2am because I had slept through 8 contractions in one hour. But once I emptied my bladder and rolled over, they went away...whew! So this morning, my doc decreased the level to 1 gram. So far so good. When he stopped in tonight he said tomorrow he will be shutting it off! Then he will watch me for a day or two and if I do well I'll get to go home. If I start having contractions, we will try the Procardia again since I did well on it before for quite some time. If that doesn't work, then it's back on the magnesium. Terbutaline is no longer an option because it raises your blood sugar and...

Today I failed my 3 hour glucose test, which means I have gestational diabetes. I met with the nutritionist and will have to check my blood 4 times a day to keep it under control. They are very strict with gestational diabetes because of the effects too much sugar can have. There can be respiratory issues at birth, a higher chance of obesity in adolescence, jaundice, low blood sugar at birth, a large baby...and so on. Enough to give me lots of incentives to follow my diet, which will hopefully be enough to keep things under control. If not, meds will be prescribed. The good news is, gestational diabetes usually goes away as soon as you deliver.

I also got results back from my urine culture and I have a bladder infection...I had already started meds for that when the screen came back positive 2 nights ago.

Along with the bad results today, we did have some great news. We had an ultrasound, and my cervix is still the same! YEAH! Also, the baby is looking great and weighs approximately 2 lbs. 9 oz...so right where she should be! She had been head down for the last 3 weeks, but today she was breech. Later, when finding her heartbeat on the monitor, we found it way down low again indicating that she was head down again. Apparently she isn't ready to settle in yet:)

I think that's it for now, but please pray with us that tonight will be a quiet night and tomorrow we will be able to try things without the magnesium.

28 Week Milestone and NICU Tour

Today marks another milestone, 28 weeks! We are able to breath just a little bit easier now than we could 2 weeks, or even one week ago. I've been trying to think of something we can do to celebrate, but haven't come up with much...it can't involve alcohol, walking, or leaving this room for that matter. I think I might have to settle for a popsicle or something:) Oh well, we will have plenty of time for celebrating later...and celebrate we will!

Last night we had our tour of the NICU, and it sure has changed since Kaden spent his 2 nights in there almost 7 years ago! They have 4 big rooms that fit 6 babies each. They are very quiet and dimly lit so the babies can sleep soundly, that's when they grow the best. They also have very beautiful artwork in all of the rooms each based on a different theme. A mom who had a baby in there painted everything free hand and she is obviously very talented!

The nurse was holding and feeding a little 4 pound boy that was doing really well, and it was strange how big he looked to me, especially in comparison to another little girl in there. They have a baby born 4 days ago at 26 weeks who weighs 1 pound 4 ounces. She was, of course, on a ventilator and all hooked up to her IVs and monitors, but she was doing really well. It was just amazing to see how small she was, her legs were literally as big around as my thumb! And she was moving all around in her isolet, wiggling her little hands up by her face and squirming from side to side just like any baby would. She just looked too tiny to be able to do any of that...very surreal. It sure made me greatful that our baby is already twice that size or so!

As much as I don't want our baby to spend any time in the NICU, I'm sure it will be a little less scary now that I know a little bit more about what to expect if that is the case.

Monday morning update...

This morning my doc stopped in and lowered my mag dose to 1.5 grams since my uterus was behaving so well at 2 grams. So tonight the real test will come. If I make it through the night, I will be a little bit more optomistic that we will be able to keep the dose lower for a while. However, my experience from last week makes me a little nervous...we'll just have to see how it goes.

My doc also ordered an ultrasound for tomorrow to check on the growth of the baby, and I'll also have my 3 hour glucose test in the morning. I was borderline on the 1 hour so we have to make sure I don't have gestational diabetes. I suspect it will come back fine since it is very common to fail the first test and pass the second with flying colors.

I also got my progesterone shot today...you know that one that is suppose to prevent preterm labor?? Guess they figure we'll take all the help we can get:)

At one point over the weekend, the baby wasn't wiggly at all for about a 12 hour period. They put the monitor on early after I expressed my concern. She was doing fine, and moving quite a bit actually...but with the placenta being in the front of my uterus, it's hard to feel all of her movements. The meds do make her a little sleepy also, but this morning she is hopping all over the place...YEAH!

What are my goals for the day?

• to balance our checkbook and make sure our bills are paid
• possibly start crocheting a blanket for my baby
• to shave my legs...no matter what it takes!

That's it for now...we will just be praying for a quiet night. I'll let you know how it goes.

Same old same old...

Things up here at the hospital have been pretty stable for the last couple of days. The mag is still at 2 grams and the contractions have been few and far between. I'm enjoying a visit from Sarah who came to town last night with her family. She spent the night with me, we played some Scrabble at ate way to many Cheetos and cookies (thanks Jeff) and now we're just chillin'.

The other day, when I explained to Jordan that it may be a while before I can go home, he said, "that really sucks, Mom. Why can't we bring all of this stuff home with you, the bed, the IV, the monitors..." I said that would be great but we would have to bring a nurse, too. He said, "that's ok, she can be our butler!"

Also, I had explained to Kaden that if I need anything at all, a popsicle, some juice, or whatever, all I have to do is push my red nurse button. He thought that was pretty cool...and after cuddling up by me on my bed for a while he looked at me and asked, "Mom, do you need anything? Because I can push the button for you."

I miss the boys very much but am greatful for the several visits I have with them each week. And they understand that their little sister just needs to stay where she is for a little bit and that this won't last forever. It will all be so worth it.

Life at the Hospital...

10 nights ago, on Sunday evening, my contractions wouldn't stop once again. After calling the doc and maxing out my Procardia (oral meds to stop contractions), they kept coming every 2-3 minutes. We headed to Labor and Delivery and I haven't been home since. Terbutaline shots helped for the first 2 nights, but after 2 phone calls during the night, my OB showed up at 5 am to check my cervix. It had shortened a little to 3.5 cm in length and dilated to 1 cm at my previous appointment and was holding steady at that. But at only 26 weeks with contractions every 2 minutes that terb wasn't touching, and with my history, he started me on magnesium sulfate.

Magnesium sulfate is an IV medication that effects the central nervous system and can be used to stop contractions. It weakens your muscles and makes it hard to get up all the time to use the bathroom, so I had to have a catheter put in. It also has other side effects for the mother so they have to keep an eye on me, but so far so good.

It worked and the contractions got under control, they did have to go up to 3 grams at one point as I was contracting right through 2, and at that dose I felt like I was going to melt into the bed. Thankfully, we've been holding steady at 2 now. I am able to handle these side effects much better...I'm sleepy, my eyes burn, I'm flushed and hot and have a general feeling of being out of it, but I can see straight as opposed to at the higher dose. It's hard to concentrate on things. It has weakened my muscles, but I have proven that I can get up to use the bathroom and take a 3 minute shower in a chair, so he let me get the catheter out yesterday! Yeah, that was driving me nuts.

Most importantly of all, the baby is doing well and I'm still pregnant! After consulting with my high risk OB, they have decided that the plan is to leave the meds right where they are for at least a few days, and then try to wean me off (which so far hadn't been successful). If I can't get off of it, I might be stuck here until 34 weeks. But whatever it takes.

The hardest part is I miss my boys. We have decided that they will just stay with their dad, who has been pretty accommodating through all of this...he even brings them up to visit me. That makes things a lot easier on Brett, who cannot possibly do it all right now...life goes on and he still has to work as well. This way the boys' life will be a little more structured without as much running around...and I will still get to see them several times a week.

This is not easy, but it sure beats the alternative. At 26 weeks, we were given a survival rate of 60-70% by one of the NICU doctors up here. Of those that survive, 60-70% will not have any long term complications. Now that we are past 27 weeks, we are at the 80% mark! We have several things in our favor as well...I got the steroid shots to mature the lungs, girls do better than boys when born early, and we are already in a hospital!

That about sums it up for now...keep checking back for updates. And thank you to everyone who has been praying for us. We strongly believe in the power of prayer and each and every one you send up there is much appreciated!

Sisters...

What is a sister?

she grew up with you...she shares more of your memories than anyone else in the world

she just "gets" you, and she knows what that means

she's someone who hugs your children...and they feel familiar

she has unspoken permission to boss your husband around...not to mention your kids

she knows her way around your kitchen, and when she can't find something, she isn't afraid to dig for it

she cleans just like you do, without any silly questions like "where's your mop?" or "what else needs to be done?"

she folds laundry just like you do

she knows when something's wrong by the way you answer the phone

she's always on your side

she's makes you feel better just by being there

And I'm lucky enough to have two of them!

My sister, Sonia, just left our house this morning:( She was here since Thursday at noon, so we got to have a nice long visit! She did so many things for us around here that it is unbelievable! Laundry, cooking, shopping, dishes, cleaning, and I could go on...all while looking after her two little ones. She even made us rice krispie treats and packed my "just in case" hospital bag. Of course, we got in a game of Scrabble while munching on our favorite snack, Cheetos. (She beat me.)

Charlotte joined in Mason's fascination with our pet gerbils and they snuck downstairs with Uncle Brett every chance they got to play with them. I got lots of hugs and kisses from the kids and I can't believe how much they've grown since the last time I saw them:) It was a great weekend and I can't wait to see them again!

Thanks so much, Sonia...you don't even realize how nice it was for me to have you here!

Trip to Labor and Delivery

Two nights ago, the night after my appointment with the high risk ob, we took a trip into labor and delivery. I was having contractions 3 to 5 minutes apart that wouldn't stop even after increasing my meds like I had been told to do. I had gotten them to slow down 2 other times during the day, but this time it wasn't working.

So we headed in at 9pm without even waiting for the doctor to call back. When I got there the contractions were about 4 minutes apart and my heart was racing from all the meds I had to take. They called the doctor on call and he said that if I didn't have any contractions that showed up on the monitor after an hour to send me home. I was not comfortable with that AT ALL! It was difficult for the nurse to find my contractions since I'm so early, and the button she gave me to mark when I was having a contraction wasn't working. Just because they didn't show up didn't mean I wasn't having them! And the nurse could feel my tummy tightening up with them. Obviously, these contractions had been enough to shorten and dilate my cervix over the previous 2 days...so I wasn't leaving until they stopped and we knew I wasn't progressing more. The doctor on call then told my nurse to call my doc at home and wake him up. WHEW! He adjusted my meds and said to try to sleep and he would be in in the morning to check me out. He said that sometimes sleep can be very helpful in calming contractions even when medication can't. He also ordered the steroid shot to help mature the baby's lungs mature just in case, but I said I didn't want it until I talked to him personally about it.

He was right. By morning, they had slowed to 2 an hour, and my cervix was still the same as it had been the day before...1 cm dilated. He consulted with my high risk ob before letting me go home and they decided that I should remain on the higher dose of my meds until I go in again on Monday at least. They also agreed to wait on the steroid shots for now. They are most effective if given as close to birth as possible, so apparently they are confident that we have some time. I was released at about noon.

I hadn't had a trip to labor and delivery for over 3 weeks before this one. If I get 3 more weeks before the next one, I'll be very greatful!

Changes...

I just got back from my appointment with my high risk ob and, unfortunately, there have been some changes. I have had quite a few contractions this week and they have started to affect my cervix. After a very complete exam, I was told that my cervix is showing funneling and has shortened from 5 to 3.5cm and has dilated to 1cm. If it goes below 2cm in length, I will have to be admitted to the hospital. I have been told to pay even closer attention to my contractions and to increase my meds according to a specific schedule as soon as they start. The thing the OB said that bothered me the most was, "Let's just try to get a couple more weeks out of this." I was thinking more in terms of a couple more MONTHS!

On the positive side, our little girl looks perfect, just kicking away in there without a care in the world:) And at this point, each day in the womb increases chances of survival by 2 to 3 percent. Stay in there, sweetie!

25 Weeks and Going Strong!

Today I'm 25 weeks pregnant! I had my weekly doctor appointment yesterday, and everything is stable for now, despite quite a few contractions over the weekend...so great news! I had my glucose test and it came back borderline, so I'll have to do the 3 hour test to rule out gestational diabetes. But I'm not too worried about it because quite commonly a woman will fail the first one only to pass the second without any problems.

Tomorrow is my appointment with my high risk ob who will do an ultrasound to check cervical length and of course take a peak at the baby. I'll let you know how it goes.

This weekend, Sonia (one of my sisters) is coming for a visit with her two kids! I can't believe I haven't seen any of them since my wedding way back in September. I can't wait!

ER Trip!

So today we had yet another trip to the hospital, but not for me this time...for Kaden. He was laying in front of the tv watching Bambi 2, and all of a sudden he jumped up and looked terrified, then started crying. He told me he swallowed a ball from his Magnetix...apparently after choking on it for a second or two! He said it was hurting in his throat. So I told Brett to throw some clothes on, and I threw some on Kaden (they were still in their jammies)...and off they went. They did an x-ray to make sure it went down the "right" pipe and to see exactly where it was. It was already on it's way into the intestine and is expected to come out the other end without any trouble. WHEW!

So, needless to say, the Magnetix went on the very very top shelf that none of the kids can reach, and we had a very long talk about what NOT to put in your mouth. All these years of telling the Kaden "get that out of your mouth" and now he finally gets it...he won't be doing that again anytime soon. Just when you think you don't have to worry about choking anymore...think again. With kids, you NEVER know what you are gonna get.

24 Weeks!

On Tuesday I passed up my first goal of 24 weeks! My doctor's appointment on Monday went well...I got my usual progesterone shot, got weighed, had blood pressure checked, and all that stuff. I asked the doc if I could spend some time sitting up since the contractions have been under control for the most part, and he said nope. Until 32 weeks we have to be very careful. So that's a bummer but what can you do. I'm just thrilled to be past the 24 week mark, from here on out I feel like I at least have my head above water!

This week has gone by much faster than last week, so that's good. I think I'm settling into my routine with the bed rest and am accepting the fact that my days consist of watching TV, reading, playing on the internet, talking on the phone, and if I'm lucky getting a shower and putting on clean clothes. Oh yeah, I've also done a little baby shopping online:) The boys are getting use to the routine, too. Kaden crawls right up by me on the couch for snuggles before bed, and Jordan sits in bed by me and lets me borrow his gameboy...isn't that sweet!

Jordan felt the baby move for the first time the other night. He has been a little leary of touching my tummy (it is very weird afterall), but this time I just said "give me your hand" and put it where she was moving, and he felt a kick right away. His face lit up and a surprised "HA" came out of his mouth. As much as he has been trying to keep his excitement a secret, he couldn't contain it at that moment. I asked, "do you want to feel it again?" He replied with a simple, "no". I guess that was enough excitement for him for one day.

Good Old Dr. Seuss!

Sighed Mayzie, a lazy bird hatching an egg:
"I'm tired and I'm bored
And I've kinks in my leg
From sitting, just sitting here day after day.
It's work! How I hate it!
I'd much rather play!
I'd take a vacation, fly off for a rest
If I could find someone to stay on my nest!
If I could find someone, I'd fly away--free. . . ."