Showing posts with label nano. Show all posts
Showing posts with label nano. Show all posts

December 20, 2009

At this rate, I'll be bald by Tuesday...

Why did I pick Tuesday? I don't know, it's just that this hair loss is THAT dramatic. I'm not saying I'm stressed out or even pulling out my own hair in disgust. No, no, it's hormonal and since this will be the only time in my life that I allow something to be blamed on my hormones, enjoy it. E hit the 3 month mark, my pregnancy hormones disappeared, and my hair is choosing to live in the trash rather than on my head. It is falling out by the handful and this is NOT an exaggeration. It falls out when I wash it...it falls out when I style it...it falls out when I stand perfectly still! My brush looks like a yeti and I'm constantly picking off stray hairs from E and all my clothes. Gross, really. Here's hoping this doesn't last too much longer...because really...at this rate, I'll be bald by Tuesday.

September 24, 2009

Ellis Glenn has arrived!

Born Thursday, 9/24/09 3:45 pm

Weight 8 lbs 2 oz - 58th percentile

Length 20 in - 59th percentile

swollen and a bit beat up...maybe a little shocked too??






Birth story to come...it was a quick one!
E's Birth Story

My readers already know, but as of my 39 week appointment I had dilated to 4cm, was 75% effaced and was at -1 station. My doctor just couldn't believe I hadn't gone into full blown labor yet. You all know, I agreed with her completely.

Picture it...September 24, 9:00am...my doctor says, "What are you still doing here?!" I say,while waddling and grunting down the hall, "I don't know what he's waiting on. Let's just get this show started!" The next thing I know, the doctor is calling down to labor & delivery. Then we're informed that we should report there by 10:30am. WHAT!? Ok...let's have a baby today! Thank goodness I shaved that morning.

We went home first to gather our things and make quick arrangements with Grams to watch M until Mimi could arrive. We signed in at L&D at 10:45am. After all the prep work...monitors, IVs and such, they started the pitocin at 11:30am. I think I had received about 1 drop and serious contractions started. Apparently, I just needed thrown over the edge. I was handling the contractions pretty well for a few hours. Andrew was superb, talking me through them and supplying the perfect distractions. Then, came the orders to break my water. Wow! I can't imagine being out and about when that would happen. So.much.fluid. Then, the contractions REALLY hit. Ok, time for the epidural (2:30pm). I didn't want to be so tight and tense throughout these contractions that they couldn't actually DO anything. No sense in wasting it.

It took a while to get epidural administered, but I was fairly "comfortable" afterwards. I use quotation marks because I still felt quite a bit, but the anesthesiologist said, he was chasing a moving target with me so it might not take effect as quickly. I trusted that it would catch up eventually...HA! I was instructed to lie on my right side. Upon doing that, I experienced an unbearable ligament pain, so they switched me over to my left. That wasn't much better, so I was allowed to be almost on my back. It was really the only way I had any "comfort". Shortly after that, my left leg felt like it belonged to someone else, but the right was totally mine...weird.

So, I maybe had been "comfortable" for 45 minutes and I had the urge to push. For the second time that day...WHAT!? We called in the nurse and sure enough, I was ready to go! Now, having the urge to push and not being allowed to do so is probably the worst feeling there is, but my doctor needed a little time to get there. Luckily, her office is just across the street. By the time she arrived in our room, she was out of breath from running. At 3:30pm we started to push. Let's just say that epidural DID NOT have time to catch up with the pain I was getting ready to experience. I felt everything, but Andrew was good to remind me that with each push, we were closer to getting this little man into the world. I was loud and it was intense, but E arrived at 3:45pm, kicking and screaming.

We couldn't believe he was here!
10 fingers, 10 toes...pink and LOUD! He is perfect.


Recovery was much easier this time around. I had a 1st degree episiotomy...no biggie and the epidural wore off very quickly so there weren't any side effects from that either. I was pleased. It was a definitely a good day.

Interesting side note...the Lewis grandkids appear to like 4s...
Addison (niece), born September 4
M, born November 14
E, born September 24

September 23, 2009

Who thinks these would work?


Sounds like a good excuse for sweets to me!!

September 17, 2009

Strike 1

Tuesday night, I started having contractions that were different starting at 9:00pm. They lasted until 2:00am, and were timeable...every 5 minutes for 1 minute. We were about to call our doctor, AND...they fizzled out. Oh well, we had an appointment Wednesday morning.

So...the doctor's appointment... Everything looked great and to top it off, I'm 4cm dilated and the baby is really low. She stripped my membranes and sent us on our way. Since we're only at 38 weeks, there won't be any measures to "induce" (drugs or breaking water). Labor with M was incredibly short and fast so we were told that if I got uncomfortable to call.

I cramped ALL day long, took walks, and started having steady contractions by 7:00pm. By 11:00pm, they were radiating around into my back and were, well, uncomfortable. I called our doctor and was told to come on in. We got all hooked up and started monitoring things...all was well. Contractions were steady and let's just say that Nano moves A LOT!

We got up to walk the halls at midnight. By 1:30am, contractions were coming a little closer together, but not stronger and Nano was even lower. Then...they gave us the option to hang at the hospital and see if things escalated out of early labor, or to just go home to do the same. We went home. I went to bed when we got there and I woke up to...nothing. Again, at 38 weeks, nothing will be done to induce labor...or to stop it. I didn't want drugs anyway...

I was 100% induced with M and I don't think I had a single contraction outside of being in full blown labor for him. That said, I feel like a first time mom not knowing what is or isn't going to lead to active labor. So, I am disappointed in myself because I really thought this was it. We woke people up, and lost a lot of sleep over the last couple of days...for nothing. Andrew had to reschedule a lot of things...for nothing. I don't want to feel stupid, but I do. Crying is my activity of choice today.

I'm letting it go. Everyone is officially off red alert. Nothing is happening.

September 10, 2009

oh feet...how I miss thee...
37 weeks 1 day

September 9, 2009

Well...

We had a 37 week doctor's appointment this morning. I'm down 2lbs. and measuring great with steady blood pressure. My belly button is hereby...flat. I told the doctor about my lower back pain and she suggested some back massage...courtesy of Andrew, of course. I don't mind that kind of medicine! Nano is quite the bruiser with all his movement...oh, and I was examined to find out that I'm 2cm dilated and 50% effaced! I knew something was going on. Shooting pains down my legs and a mornings worth of semi-uncomfortable contractions just couldn't be nothing.


We had packed up the car to take a short trip to Anderson for the rest of the week. I just want to see my new niece so badly. Well, upon asking my doctor her opinion and after the exam, she didn't think a 4 hour drive would be a good idea. I don't suspect we'll be having a baby within the next week, but just to be safe, we'll stick close to home. We unpacked the car. I secretly suspect Andrew wouldn't have missed a grunting and complaining wife for a few days.

Still waiting...

September 8, 2009

Where's my Nano?

"He's right here...is he goin' to come out?"
Please pardon the fuzzy picture. I had to act fast.

"awwww"

September 2, 2009

36 Weeks

We're in the home stretch! I've officially entered the uncomfortable part of my pregnancies, but I will savor it, since this is most likely the last one we're going to have. To get the complaining out of the way...my back aches, sleeping is uncomfortable, my energy level is way down, and even my maternity shirts only cover half of my gargantuan belly. Par for the course? Let's hope...

Perhaps horizontal stripes aren't the best choice? Eh...oh well.

Medically, I can say that this pregnancy has been as easy as M's. Despite as large as I look, my weight gain and measurements have always been right on track. Nano's heart rate is good. I really haven't had to make any special considerations. I was told that this babe has "read the manual" and has been head down for quite some time. Braxton Hicks contractions are frequent, so I know my body is getting ready for the big show. I'm happy and just hoping he decides to drop soon so I might be able to breathe a little easier.

With the exception of a night gown, my bags are packed. The house is ready, we've toured the hospital, and all our parental figures know their "jobs" for when the time comes. My mom will be watching M for the days we're in the hospital, Eric and Cynthia will be dropping whatever they're doing to come get M if and when I need them to, and Beth will be filling our freezer. We are lucky to have many sets of parents that function as such wonderful and diverse roles in our lives. Nano has also purchased M a few gifts to let him know he's glad to have him as a big brother.

The hospital is only about 2.5 miles north of our house and the Women's Center is awe-some. My doctor is great and not easily freaked out while also being attentive to my specific needs. Works for me...quite well in fact, given my tendency to overreact. All the variables are finally set and we are truly excited to meet this little man.

I've started thinking about how dramatically M's life is going to change when Nano arrives. I wonder if he has any idea how much...I wonder if I have any idea either. While I enjoy being a mother of one...that time is growing short. It saddens me to a small degree but also brings some real excitement. Andrew assures me M's life will be changing for the better and I believe him. That guy always knows what to say.

So, I think that covers it. Now, we wait...we'll be full term a week from today.

July 22, 2009

30 Weeks

I never seem to get any real specific numbers on my "condition", but our doctor says things are right on target.
  • up 3 lbs. - 19 lbs. total
  • blood pressure - 106/68 = good
  • baby's heart rate - good
  • movement - again, Nano kicked the doppler. The doctor had to "chase" him around to get an accurate heart rate. This babe is very active!
  • fundal height - perfect for 30 weeks growth
  • gestational diabetes test - negative
  • hemoglobin levels - good
We're still on cruise control but now we start having appointments every 2 weeks. The doctor will check his positioning every time now since she said she "doesn't trust these little ones to stay put" until they get a little bigger.

We also pre-registered at the hospital today and scheduled our tour for September 2. Sadly, M is too young for the sibling tour, but we were offered a nice list of things to do with him to help him welcome Nano to the family. Along with all the lists and preparations we've been making, I think we are well on our way to being ready in 10 or so weeks!

July 5, 2009

Thanks for tuning in...
...here is your Nano update.


I must have officially lost my mind to post a picture in my bathing suit...

How far along? 27 weeks 4 days as of today - 87 days to go
Total weight gain/loss: Up 16 lbs. At my last appointment, I had gained a whopping 10 pounds...in a month! To say I was surprised would be an understatement.
Maternity clothes: Shorts and tank tops have become my new uniform.
Sleep: Getting uncomfortable. Even with 4 pillows in various places, it's just hard to find a position that I like for too long.
Best moments in the last few weeks: Noticing that Nano is getting so big that M can almost "hide" underneath my belly. Listening to Nano's hiccups over the doppler at my last appointment. Watching and hearing him kick the doppler off the belly...
Movement: Loads. There is still plenty of room so flips and kicks and punches that seem to have some momentum behind them are not unusual. He is very active in the late evening and in the mornings.
Food cravings: hmm...sweets and dairy. I can.not.get.enough. Perhaps that's why I gained 10 lbs. in a month...
Labor Signs: None that mean anything. Braxton Hicks contractions started up this week.
Belly Button in or out? In, but getting flatter.
What I miss: Moving without grunting.
What I am looking forward to: Getting this house fully, 100% ready for this babe to arrive. Yes, even though our place is small, I'm wanting to hire a housekeeper.
Weekly Wisdom: Laugh...especially when your husband says that this 2nd pregnancy is like experiencing deja vue for him. He can predict which "phase" of pregnancy psychosis is coming next.
Milestones: I'm in the 3rd trimester. The time is passing too fast.

May 13, 2009

Nano - 20 Weeks

While Nano revealed his sex at our last ultrasound, there were a few other interesting and mind-easing facts I thought I would share.

We saw the 4 chambers of his heart just pumping away. His brain is the proper shape and there is no evidence of a cleft lip. His stomach and kidneys are large enough and appear to be functioning. The length of his femur shows he is growing right as he should. Big sigh of relief for Andrew and I for sure... Finally, when we got to the big sex reveal, I can honestly say it wasn't difficult to figure out. As soon as she passed over that area, Andrew and I could both say..."There it is!"

We were very happy with our ultrasound technician. She took her time and was sure to show us all sorts of wonderful views of our sweet baby.

a most adorable profile...

front view

I'm feeling lots of movement these days...mostly in the evening. The ultrasound tech also told us Nano's positioning, so I have really been able to pinpoint the little punches and kicks lately.

As soon as I saw Nano's profile picture, I had to get Morgan's out for a little comparison. Is it just me or do they look quite a bit alike?

What's all the excitement about?

We had a big reveal on the sex of our upcoming Witherspoon this evening. After a lovely dinner of Chinese take-out, we presented homemade fortune cookies.

Looks like there's going to be another set of Witherspoon boys!

April 30, 2009

18 Weeks

Oh, Baby!
19 weeks, 5 days


Blood pressure - normal
Total weight gain - 5 lbs
Baby's heart rate - 170s

Sometimes, I think we could take care of these "appointments" at home.

I'm still not really feeling any movement yet, but with as high as the baby's heart rate was, the doctor said that she wouldn't be surprised if this little one was keeping me up at night by our next appointment.

So, our big ultrasound is in 2 weeks. We're hoping all parties cooperate so we can get a glimpse of the goods...if you know what I mean. Andrew still won't commit on his guess and I'm "feeling" boy. Any guesses out there??? Time to place your bets...

April 1, 2009

14 Weeks

Another month, another doctor's appointment. Today, I chose to have the earliest appointment possible, to hopefully forgo the waiting. I can report...it worked!

We were finally able to actually hear the heartbeat (not just see it). Nano's heartrate measured in at 160 bpm and all my measurements are right on track. The doctor says we're on auto-pilot now. I'm finally getting some energy back and haven't felt queasy for at least a week. According to my friend, Melissa, I might be tempting the pregnancy gods by saying these things, but it is what it is I suppose. All is good!

Okay, it's probably time for a picture since we're starting the second trimester. I was absolutely amazed how quickly I started showing this second time around. Well, at least I feel like I'm showing.

oh boy...or girl!

March 8, 2009

We got great news on January 23.

Baby #2 is on its way! We will call this one, Nano. You know, until he or she arrives.

We decided to expand our family late last year, and are expecting our newest addition to arrive around September 30. Now, at the risk of sounding sappy, I must say a couple of things. We are of the belief that our sweetest Grace sent this baby to us. She is one of the very few people that knew we had been trying to have another baby. We had been trying for many months, and were blessed shortly after she arrived in heaven. We take great comfort in knowing that she knows him or her already. I'm sure she has already told Nano all about how much we love and want him or her.

As of this post we are 11 weeks along, but here's what we saw at our first OB appointment at 7 weeks 5 days. You can see a little baby blob in there. What you can't see is a strong, fluttering heart beat...but it's there!

7 Weeks 5 Days - the size of a blueberry.

I've been writing down a few observations, since we weren't posting on the blog yet. Here they are if you're interested. Time to stop reading, if you're not...

How did i know we were pregnant?
Milk. I found that one day I couldn't get enough. I had "the best milkshake ever" at lunch. Followed shortly by a couple of cookies and "the best glass of milk ever". Later that evening, I thought a bowl of cereal sounded good..."best cereal-milk ever". This all seemed remarkably familiar, so I took a test. Big fat positive!

Feeling?
All the standard pregnancy symptoms...a bit ill and really tired. This all started at 6 weeks. My stomach is extremely sensitive, and this is especially evident in the evenings. Evening sickness? Oddly, I've found that carbonation makes it worse. Oh well, water is better for me anyway. This is only of note to me because compared to my pregnancy with M, this is well, quite different.

Turning a corner?
At 10 weeks, I finally started feeling human again. My stomach doesn't feel "wonky" today AND I seem to have some energy. I also started my prenatal yoga today. Feeling good...finally! I might not even take a nap today.

I was a fan before...
but for all my pregnant ladies out there, Steak 'n Shake has a happy hour from 2-4pm during the week. This means 1/2 price milkshakes. I mean, a kid size is only $1.25! Utter happiness for the 5 minutes it takes to drink it all down...yummy!

10 week appointment...
was on March 5. Everything looked great! That's about all I have to say. We got a surprise informal ultrasound since the heartbeat is still too faint to hear on a doppler, but Andrew saw it and M was happy to be able to watch TV again. Our doctor couldn't give us an actual number on the heart rate, but she said it looks perfect. She's been doing this for quite some time, so we're satisfied and happy with that.

10 Weeks 3 Days - the size of a prune.
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