Tuesday's Child is Full of Grace

Well, today is the day.  The day I have been anxiously waiting for.  The day when our baby boy will enter this world.

I don't have too much to say...I'm quite content, actually.  I woke up early this morning to shower and get ready so when he saw his mommy for the first time, he thought he had the most beautiful mommy ever.  Other than that, here I am, just laying in bed waiting to get things rolling.  I can't wait to look into my little boy's eyes...

Because I don't have much to say, I thought I'd share the prayer Ellen wrote for us on this special day...

Dear Lord

I lift my family up to you in prayer.  On this special day, I pray that you hold Amanda in your arms as she prepares to give birth to her first child.  The miracle of birth is your greatest gift you give us here on Earth.  Guide the doctors to deliver the best medical care they have available to both Amanda and Little Jimmer.  I pray that you deliver the baby Lord with your blessings and expertise.  Guide Little Jimmer out of the womb and into the world with ease.  I pray that you surround him with your protective arms to love and support him as he enters our world.  Give Neil peace in knowing that you are in control and are watching out for his family.  Give Neil and Amanda wisdom from this moment on in taking care of their family.

Thank you to everyone for the prayers over the past 8 weeks.  I truly could not have done it without you.

Much love,

Jimmer's Mom

BEST 35 Week Present EVER!!

As you know from a previous post, I've been spoiled rotten by my sister every Friday since I've been in the hospital.  Cute little outfits, beautiful flowers, yummy munchies and a breastfeeding book - what more could I want!

Well, I'll tell you this much...her 35 week present definitely takes the cake!!!  And I think *Someone* else had a hand in the timing of this present!!!

My sister and Eli surprised me yesterday by walking into my hospital room...!!!

Yes, they are here - in Indianapolis!!!

Now, I guess she had this trip planned for quite some time - and when I say that *Someone* else had a hand in it, this is what I mean...

This trip has been planned for weeks - no particular reason why she picked this weekend, she just did.  And she certainly had it planned before she ever knew I was delivering on Tuesday!  Now, originally, she had planned to stay until Monday, but when I called her Thursday night to tell her that my Dr. moved up the delivery date and now our little guy's birthday is going to be October 18th, she quickly called the airline to reschedule her departure to Thursday so she could be here to meet her little nephew!  That isn't just a coincidence that she was able to do it so easily - it makes perfect sense...and from all the prayers we've had from the past 8 weeks, I now know that God knew little Jimmer's birthday was going to be the 18th.  He planned it that way - and he directed my sister the make her plans in the same manner.  God is AMAZING!

So yes, my 35 week present definitely takes the cake!!!  I feel so at peace because (aside from Uncle Paul) everyone important in my life will be here when little Jimmer enters the world (or in the case of Uncle Troy, the day after)...I couldn't feel more complete.  I am so ready for Tuesday to come!

The Image of Perfection

So excited to say that the amazing Jeff from Jeff Dillow Photography dropped off our maternity photos today!!!  Here are some of our favorites!!

Love. Love. LOVE THEM!!  So happy we got them done! :)

My Oh My, Does Time Fly!!

It's amazing how time flies when you're sitting in a hospital bed.  You wouldn't think so - you'd think the days would drag by as you sit around helpless and bored, but I promise, the time seriously flies!!

And today, it flew especially fast!!  In fact, in the blink of eye - poof! - there goes 7 whole days!!  Seven long days.  Sure, it might've been the fact that I had constant visitors all day long...that always makes the day fly by.  Yeah...it might've been that...

Or it might have something to do with the discussion I had with my Dr. this afternoon...

...the discussion that changed my baby boy's birthday from October 25th to October 18th.  Yep...you read that correctly.  October 18th.  That's Tuesday...just in case you didn't know.

On October 18th, Neil and I will be parents.  And not just parents because we're pregnant, but parents that are holding their little baby boy.  In their arms.  Looking into his eyes.  For real, not just eyes in a ultrasound photo.  CRAZY!!!

Yes, my Dr. has decided that with the new finding of the vasa previa, the risks of waiting an additional week are not worth it - especially since I have been contracting more frequently then I was.  She studied the ultrasound, spoke with the technologist, did some research, talked with the partners in the office and came to the conclusion that delivering on Tuesday is the best choice for little Jimmer.

So like I said, time flies - especially when you see your countdown go from 12 days to 5 days...in a matter of 5 minutes!!

And, He's Back!

After 2 weeks of being IV-free, it's unfortunate for me to say that I will be getting my IV start "re-installed" ('cause I'm kinda like a machine!) this afternoon!  There are several reasons for this...

For one (and the major one), I have a *new* condition that was diagnosed yesterday at my ultrasound!  HOORAY!!!  I have a condition called vasa previa.  Please, whatever you do, do not research it online.  In a nutshell, what it means is that if I were to deliver naturally, the cord would present itself before the baby - which is not good, but I'm having a c-section anyway, so it doesn't really matter...just makes me more fragile!  

Secondly, I have started having mild contractions (and by mild, I mean seriously mild...like sometimes can't even feel them, mild!!).  If these continue - and get more painful - then it's go time!

Finally, with all my other conditions, my Dr. thinks it's best to be prepared in case of an emergency - especially since we're closing in on these last few days.  We aren't sure when I could go, so in her eyes, it's best that I have my blood work in the lab and can be easily connected to fluids...just in case!  So, I guess I can't complain!!!  

So Mr. IV knew that he wouldn't be gone for long...and yes, he's back.  But that just means we're getting close to seeing our baby in the flesh!!!!

Ocho. Otto. Acht. Osiem.

No matter what language you speak, it all means the same.  EIGHT.  Eight ultrasounds.  Even my ultrasound tech told me today that I should have my picture framed in the office for the most ultrasounds.  She really does not ever recall having another patient with as many ultrasounds as we have had.  Hey!  I'm not complaining!!

Today's ultrasound was pivotal.  Today's ultrasound was the determining factor in when exactly we would deliver.  As you know, we had a date set for October 25th (a mere 13 days away...YAY!!!), but we've also been battling with oligohydraminos (low amniotic fluid) which gave us the possibility of delivering early.  Well, I'm happy to report that my fluid levels are back where they should be and baby is no longer breech!!  Hooray for us!!  So we're officially a go for October 25th - unless my Dr. has something up her sleeve that we're unaware of...

We were also able to get some good measurements today and baby boy is (for the most part) hanging out in the 34-35 week range...right on schedule.  Now, I say "for the most part" because his abdomen is measuring about 2 weeks ahead of schedule.  Looks like we'll have a cute little pudgy baby!!  And along with being pudgy...I'm the MOST excited to report that he is weighing about 5lb 15oz!!!!  I am so beyond relieved that he is that close to 6 lbs!  Makes me much more comfortable come delivery time!!

Also had a little discussion with Carly today (the nurse I hand-picked for the procedure!) and she eased my mind as she gave us a quick run-down on how the day would go.  Now I'm even MORE prepared and so excited to finally get this show on the road!!!

13 DAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Spoiled!!

Yes, that's me!  And I'm not afraid to admit it!

I am 100% spoiled rotten by my sister (and several other people for that matter...)!!

Every Friday since I have been in the hospital, I have been showered with gifts!!!  I know my sister wishes nothing more than to be here with me, but since she can't, she has done an amazing job of letting me know she hasn't forgotten about me!!

The first week I was here, I received a beautiful Edible Arrangement (spelled correctly and everything!!)

For 29 weeks, it was a wonderful flower arrangement (which was beautiful - despite not having the flowers my sister specified!!)

For 30 weeks, it was this super cute little football outfit!!

At 31 weeks, an adorable little jacket and jean ensemble arrived - complete with a note saying Mr. Eli has a matching one!!

Once I reached 32 weeks, I was able to enjoy some tasty treats from Cheryl's!

At 33 weeks, another matching outfit for the boys - this time, it was this adorable Thanksgiving set!

For 34 weeks, every breastfeeding mother's dream...The Complete Book of Breastfeeding!!

Yes, I am ridiculously spoiled!!!  I couldn't ask for me - I love my sister so much and I miss her, Paul and Eli every single day!!!

Showing Off My Bump

Despite being stuck in a hospital - somewhere that doesn't typically have the best scenery - I can confidently say that today's maternity session with Jeff Dillow Photography was a pure success!!

Neil and I met with Jeff this afternoon and headed outside to enjoy the beautiful (and for the most part, cooperating) weather.  Fortunately, St. Francis has a very nice garden area with a gazebo and tons of rose bushes.  We spent most of the day romping around the roses as Jeff took so amazingly creative photographs!  We had several different props and of the images he showed us, they were just amazing!

After some time outside, we came back into the room where we got some "natural" shots of us in my home-away-from-home.  Something not so "professional" and "staged" but rather something to remember the past month and a half we've spent here.

We seriously cannot wait until we get our images back!!  And yes, I will definitely be sharing!! :)

Hallelujah!

This weekend has been a spectacular weekend!  Not only did I receive official confirmation that our little baby boy will be joining us on October 25, but I have also been relieved of my IV start!

After 10 successful IV starts - and 5 additional attempts, some of which resulted in a blown vein (OUCH!), my Dr. has decided that I have been stable enough and that we can let my arms heal for a few weeks before we proceed with more IV starts!!  It couldn't come at a better time...next Sunday, Neil and I will be getting maternity pictures taken!!  I sure didn't want battered and bruised arms to grace our lovely pictures!

I am so excited for the next few weeks!  This is one happy mama!! :)

Legends are Born in October

Major League Baseball has launched a new campaign slogan for the playoffs: "Legends are Born in October".  It's a simple slogan, straightforward and more than the truth.  Before the end of October, a new team will be dubbed "World Series Champions".  But that's not all...

Before today, there was a chance that Mr. Jimbo could have been born in September - even August.  Both of which are too scary for me to think about!  But we have officially made it to October 1st - which means that no matter what, our little legend will be born in October...right along with those baseball legends!

My doctor came to see me today.  Which is really all I've been looking forward to all week.  This was the week that I was going to get a date - once and for all.  And once and for all...a date I did get!

October 25, 2011.  The date our precious baby boy will enter this world.  I will be going into surgery at around 8am, which gives us all day to celebrate with our little bundle of joy.  I simply cannot express the excitement that has filled my entire body since the minute the date was in the schedule books.  I will get an ultrasound in another couple weeks to check his growth and then it's go time.  Neil and I are so ready - but at the same time, we can't believe it's actually happening!  All of this waiting...all of the preparations...everything is set...and I couldn't be more proud of everyone involved.  All the support, encouragement, everything that everyone has done for us - it's all for this.  Our little baby boy.  In just 3 short weeks, we'll get to look into his eyes and we won't believe our own!

Legends really are born in October...

Boring...with a capital 'B'!

I'm such a creature of habit!

One of the top questions I receive (after people ask how I'm doing) is in regards to the hospital food.  The answer is usually the same...it's not bad, in fact - it's actually pretty good.  My problem with it is that despite my wishes, every time I open my menu, nothing changes.  I feel like one day I should open it and it's going to all be different.  Unfortunately, I just don't think it's happening anytime soon.  But for about the first week, the food was fantastic!  There were many choices and how can I complain...it showed up at my door hot and ready to eat!  I felt like I was in a 5-star resort!

But now...five and a half weeks later, it's starting to get old - which has caused me to be boring with a capital 'B'!!!

Everyday for the past 3 days I have ordered the exact same thing for all three meals!  Breakfast: Frosted Flakes with skim milk, a banana and chocolate milk (along with my cocktail of vitamins and medications).  Lunch: Macaroni and cheese with house-fried chippers and two bottles of water.  Dinner: Chicken quesadilla with extra salsa and two bottles of water.

At this rate...Jimmer just may come out a sugar-loaded cheesy baby singing "La Bamba"!!

:(

I really hoped that I was going to have great news today.  I really hoped that I was going to come here today and let you all know that we have an end date to this waiting.  Unfortunately...that is not the case.  But tomorrow!  I get to see my Dr. for sure tomorrow which means that I will be hounding her about scheduling my c-section so that I can finally start a countdown!!!  So hold tight...it's coming! :)

My, Have I Grown!

Just thought I'd share these lovely photos since I haven't had a chance to share them anywhere else...and my apologies...we were REALLY good at weekly pictures early on - and kind of slacked in the middle and end!

4 weeks

5 weeks

6 weeks

9 weeks

12 weeks 

15 weeks

22 weeks 

32 weeks

My, oh my, how my big belly has grown!!!!

Thankful for C-Sections

Today marked Jimmer's 7th ultrasound.  Yes, you read that correctly...SEVENTH.  My how the times have changed...when my Mom was pregnant with my sister and I, she had ONE ultrasound between the both of us.  ONE for TWO children.  I have had SEVEN for ONE child.  Geesh!!  And I'm confident in saying that I'll probably get another one next week...and who knows, maybe even the week after that...

Of course, I'm not complaining.  Not one single bit!  Every time I get another ultrasound is another opportunity to see and hear my little baby boy.  Another opportunity to check on his progress and another opportunity to gush about how absolutely adorable he is!!!  Yes...I can tell...even in the womb - he is the cutest baby on Earth! I mean, really, can you deny it?!

A perfect little profile!

Hi there, handsome!!

And speaking of progress, he has done amazing the past week!  He's up to 4lbs, 4oz. and is measuring right on schedule!  He's still breech and I still have mild oligohydramnios, but baby is growing and that's all I care about.  And yes...my placenta is still blocking baby Jimmer's exit.

But let's go back to this "Thankful for C-Sections" post title.  Yes, when I was told at 24 weeks that my placenta still had not moved and it was probably a good bet that I would end up with a c-section, I was emotional.  No, I wasn't crying and throwing a fit, but I was upset with myself.  I felt like it was something I did wrong,  I felt like I wasn't fulfilling my "womanly duties" of enduring pain during childbirth.  After all, the verse in the Bible says, "To the woman he said, I will make your pains in childbearing very severe; with painful labor you will give birth to children."  It does not say, "I will make your pains in childbearing severe OR you can choose to be numbed from the armpits down and we'll just pull the baby out..."  It took a lot for me to finally accept the fact that maybe, just maybe, a c-section was the way Jimmer was supposed to be born.  Which brings me forward almost 9 weeks...

I've since gotten over being upset about a c-section and wholly embraced the opportunity that modern medicine has afforded me.  Let me tell you why...

First of all, at my 28 week appointment (the day I found myself in the hospital), the technologist commented on "how large" my baby's head was.  No surprise...his daddy has a large head.  That was understanding #1 that a c-section was probably best.

Then there was today.  Now, I mentioned before that baby Jimmer is measuring right on schedule.  Of course, to find how he's measuring, the tech has to do measurements of the femur, the belly and the head.  Then she averages them all out and voila! you have a good idea of how big baby is and how he's measuring.  Well, while she was measuring Jimmer's head, I noticed that gestational age for that particular body part was coming up at 33 WEEKS 6 DAYS.  Ladies and gentlemen, that is an entire week and day ahead of schedule.    Yes...I am thankful for c-sections! :)

So I am hoping that come Friday when I talk with my doctor, she'll finally schedule a c-section and I'll finally have an end date to all this waiting!!!  I. CAN'T. WAIT.

The Realization

Today marks 5 weeks.  In fact, at noon will mark 5 weeks exactly!

For 5 weeks I have been laying in a hospital bed.

In the past 5 weeks, I have been outside a whopping 4 times.

In the past 5 weeks, I have not sat in a car, listened to the radio, walked into my house, cuddled with my puppies on the couch, taught my amazing 3rd grade students, cooked dinner for Neil, done laundry, gone shopping, enjoyed this amazing fall weather (or do other "fall things" for that matter!) or helped Neil with the landscaping.

So many things I have missed out on in the past 5 weeks - but I couldn't be more blessed to be doing the amazing job God has asked me to do.  I feel so fortunate that God has bestowed this gift upon me.  That he thought me worthy enough to carry one of His loved children.  And not only that, but He thought I was capable enough to handle the waiting game that I have endured for the past 5 weeks.

But here is my realization...in just 3.5 short weeks, I will be giving birth to a miracle.  I will be going into the operating room and coming out the mother of a perfect baby boy.  3.5 weeks.  I have been here way longer than 3.5 weeks - it seems unreal!  And here's the best part...I could not be more ready.  I am eager to hold my baby boy...to feed him, to bathe him, to change him, and to cuddle with him.  I am eager to take him home and introduce him to the dogs.  I am eager for all our family to meet him.

These next 3.5 weeks couldn't come any sooner.  Everything at home is set and ready to go.  Dad is 100% prepared for the new life and we are ready for our lives to completely change...for the better!

Comments Fixed!

It has come to my attention that several of my loyal readers have attempted to leave comments on some posts but were unsuccessful.  After some tweaking with settings, I am confident that the comments issue has been resolved!

I love reading comments, so please do not hesitate to leave them...I get warm fuzzies when I read a new comment!  Of course, if you're still having trouble leaving a comment, please email me at amanda-barnes {at} live {dot} com and I'll see if I can help in any way!  Thank you for being such loyal readers and finding interest in what I have to blab about!!

Best Husband Award...

Yes, that's right ladies and gentlemen...my husband official receives the Best Husband Award!

photo courtesy of Audrey's Blog

My amazing of all amazing husbands dubbed this weekend "Get Ready for Jimmer Weekend", which means when I come home - baby in tow - everything will be PERFECT.  And he did exactly that!  I can't wait to actually get home and see it all for myself - but for now, enjoy these amazing pictures of little Jimmer's nursery!!

Week THIRTY-TWO!!!!

We've reached a milestone that four weeks ago, I definitely never thought we'd make it to.  We are absolutely over the moon!

Of course, at this point, we still don't know if we're going to see Jimmer in 2 weeks or 5 weeks (or somewhere in between!), but either way - we're ready!  Right now, my goal is to shoot for at least October.  I already had to accept the fact that we're having a Halloween baby vs. a Thanksgiving baby - I can't possibly accept a September baby!!  And I've only got a week left anyway, so I think I can make it!

Sitting around and waiting has definitely made it tougher to be patient...seeing the flooding of baby clothes come into my room also makes it difficult.  But I'm hanging int here and despite my utter impatience, I know the importance of Jimmer staying put for just a wee bit longer!!  Besides...I think I'll be very sad when I don't feel him kicking around in there!!

Vaccines Galore!

After speaking with my doctor yesterday, Neil and I learned a lot more about what we're going to be faced with having a pre-37 week baby.

First of all, as with all pregnancies, Neil and I (as well as all family members will plan to be close with the baby, i.e. grandparents and aunts and uncles) are encouraged to get a flu shot (check!) as well as the adult pertussis vaccine.  Neil has already received his TDAP (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) several weeks ago and I will receive mine once I am in postpartum.  Mom and Dad got theirs when Eli was born and Grandma and Grandpa Barnes are planning to get theirs before the dude is born.  Pertussis (or whopping cough) is a scary condition that can result in infant death.

Next on the list is vaccines Jimmer will need.  Since infants cannot have a flu shot until 6 months...and Jimmer will be born into flu season...I went ahead and got the flu shot while pregnant so he could receive the antibodies.  He will also get more antibodies from colostrum and breastmilk once he's born.  Then, at the first few doctor's appointments, he'll receive several other recommended vaccines.  Among these is a vaccine that I never knew about!  One that is recommended for all babies, but especially important for babies born prior to 37 weeks.  It's call the RSV Vaccine (respiratory syncytial virus vaccine) which is a respiratory disease that's season starts in November and ends in March.    Which means Mr. Jimmer will be getting the vaccine every month during those months.  And what's even better...it's a costly one!  We're talking $8,000 PER DOSE.  Let's do a little math...$8,000 x 5 months = $40,000.  So let's see...send our kiddo to college or get this vaccine?!  Ahh, decisions...  SO THANKFUL FOR HEALTH INSURANCE!!!!!  And so thankful for Cummins commitment to preventative care!  Makes the decision on whether or not to get the vaccine an easy one...of course, we had already decided to get it regardless...I'd rather not see Jimbo in the hospital because he developed the disease!

So, yesterday was a big day!  We learned a lot about our little bundle of joy and it just makes his arrival that much more exciting!!!!  I can't wait to see our little guy! :)

Not Surprised...

Had an ultrasound today!  First one since the day I found myself in the hospital and I was so excited to see our little guy again - not to mention see how much he had grown!  And my, oh my, had he grown!!!

First of all...these last few ultrasounds have been less than par in terms of being able to see our wee one.  As they grow bigger, the images the technologist is able to capture get worse and worse.  They're just too scrunched up in there!  And considering today, Mr. Jimmer had his foot in front of his face...well, let's just say we got a picture - but you kind of have to use your imagination!  As always, she checked anatomy and did some measurements.  He's measuring right on schedule (which is music to my ears!) and weighing in at a whopping 4 lbs!!  We had a bet going between me, Neil, my mom and the nurse who took us to the office.  Neil said 3 lbs, 6 oz., Mom said 3 lbs, 11 oz., the nurse said 4 lb, 6 oz. and I said he would probably be pushing 4 lbs.  Ahh, Mama knows best!

Also during this ultrasound, they were checking my placenta to see if it had moved, checking the status of my placental lakes (pools of blood within my placenta...I've had them since about week 13!), checking on the status of my subchorionic bleed (again - something I've had since about week 13!) and finally, measuring my amniotic fluid.  Well, folks, we have good news and bad news!  First of all, my placenta hasn't moved...not even a smidge...and my placental lakes are still wreaking havoc on my poor placenta.  Surprise, surprise.  Honestly...I wasn't holding my breath!!  However, my subchorionic bleed has relieved itself which is a very good thing!  But of course...because nothing can be easy, we learned that my amniotic fluid levels were low and baby is breech!  A breech baby I can handle...besides, I knew I was getting an ultrasound anyway but low fluid levels?!  C'mon!  Looks like I'll get another ultrasound next week to check the levels again.  At that point, my Dr. will decide our best plan of action.  Right now, she's still shooting for a 36-37 week delivery.

I swear...it's a good thing I'm an upbeat and happy person by nature!  Can you imagine all these problems on a grumpy old Wicked Witch of the West?!  Eek!  And since amniotic fluid is mainly controlled by the placenta, it just goes to show what a rotten little placenta I have provided to my perfect little baby boy!  I think next time, I'm going to try my pregnancy sans placenta!  My Dr. doesn't think it'll work out too well, but hey - there was the Virgin Mary...why can't I be the Placenta-Free Amanda?!

And what's worse?!  My Dr. was actually considering sending me home this weekend because I have been so "uneventful" here in the hospital.  Once we got back to my room, I told Neil and my mom that I bet she'd renege on her proposal to send me home...and that's exactly what she did!  Not surprised...wasn't holding my breath...so here I am, and I'm 1/2 way done so it's all downhill from here!! :)

Thankful for Bedrest

It's days like this I'm thankful for bed rest...

Let me explain - have you been outside lately (if you're in Greenwood)?  I woke up this morning with a pounding headache in a not-so-brightly-lit room.  I opened up the blinds and everything was explained right before my eyes!  I get miserable headaches when the weather is yucky (I assume because of the pressure change) and who doesn't want to just cuddle up in bed when the weather is less than par?!  Just looking out my window, I can tell that today is definitely a cuddle-up-in-bed day!!!  If only I had my puppies to cuddle with me! :(

What I do have to cuddle with me, though, is my little blanket I'm knitting for Jimmer, my stuffed puppy dog, and my computer where I can search out the perfect little items for our baby boy!  Here are three perfect little hats that I would love to see on our little guy...

(photo courtesy of PreciousMomentsProps on Etsy)

(photo courtesy of Sweet Lullabiez on Etsy)

(photo courtesy of CBBCreations on Etsy)

Now, if I had it my way, I would just learn how to crochet these beauties!  Maybe that's the next thing Ellen can teach me!!!  

31 WEEKS!!!

I can't believe we've made it this far!  There was no way in the world when I was admitted on August 23rd that I actually thought I would make it to 31 weeks!  It is such a relieving feeling to know that we have made it this far. And it is so obvious that little Jimmer is growing leaps and bounds each day - as evidenced by the ridiculous kicks and punches!  I've actually had two that SERIOUSLY hurt!!  Such a strong boy!

I am so excited to say that next week we'll finally be getting another ultrasound!  I am so excited to see if a) my placenta has moved (not holding my breath) and b) how much bigger Jimmer really is!  Not to mention, I just love seeing our little baby boy!!  I've also been permitted to partake in some physical therapy - which will be nice since my legs look like I've been diagnosed with Polio.  I probably won't be able to do much, but at least it's progress!!

Other than that, it's been a pretty uneventful week - which is just the way I want it!!  SIX MORE WEEKS!! :)

Tres Semanas

Feels good to say I have made it three weeks!!  In those three weeks, I've had 3 massages (that are oh-so-lovely!), a pedicure, a manicure, Long's Donuts every Friday, more than what I deserve in yummy meals from friends and family, and of course...SIX different IV starts.  :)  But I am more than caught up with the Kardashians and I think I've seen Sweet Home Alabama a quarter of a million times!  One thing I am extremely thankful for is that while yes, I am on bed rest and it stinks, I am so fortunate that I do not have to be completely, 100% on my back the entire time!!  A couple other girls who are on bed rest here with me are only allowed showers once a week and they have to remain completely on their backs.  I thank God every day that even though I am here, I am here for a good reason and at least I am (for the most part) comfortable.

Thank you to everyone who has been so amazing this past three weeks...for all the meals, the help with the house and dogs, the company, the magazines and books, everything!  You all are the reason I am in such high spirits day in and day out!  And I definitely could not have done it without you!!!

The Big 3-0!

It is such an amazing accomplishment for me to say that I have finally made it to 30 weeks!  Sure, it's not my doctor's goal, but to know that I've made it within 10 weeks of my due date feels so good!  Seven more weeks...I can do it...especially if it means a healthy baby boy that doesn't need to spend much time - if any at all - in the NICU.  And in just 2 weeks, we'll get to make some more long-term plans...which I'm keeping my fingers crossed means a c-section scheduled for October 28th!!  I feel like The Little Engine That Could...just chugging along saying to myself, "I think I can, I think I can..." And come October 28th, we'll be given the greatest prize known to man!  A prize that will make these 9 weeks of waiting 500% worth it!

I'm Sick of IV Starts!!!

If there is one thing I would complain about it's silly hospital protocols!!  And not all of them, I understand them for the most part, but it's one in particular and it is regarding IV starts.  Okay, I understand that I need to have an IV start in 24/7 - I understand it 100% because I see how they struggle to find a decent vein and trust me, I wouldn't want them struggling during an emergency, so I totally get that I need an IV start in at all times.  I'm cool with that.  What I'm not cool with, on the other hand, is that it has to be moved EVERY FOUR DAYS.  Alright, let's do a little math here...there are 7 days in a week and I will likely be here for a total of 9 weeks.  7 days x 9 weeks = 63 days total.  Now, divide that by 4 and what do we get? 15.75!!!  Really, do these doctors and nurses really think I have 15+ access points within my two arms?!  We've already established that my right arm, for whatever reason, just doesn't work, so now we're really limited to just one arm.  I swear - I'm going to have IVs between my toes before too long!!!  And while this girl can handle a donating-blood needle like a champ, there's something about these tiny little catheter needles that get the best of me.  It's just enough to make me wince!  But enough complaining - I guess I understand why they do it...infection, clotting and the like are not things I'd like to deal with, but still...can't we cut the girl a break?!  I feel like a pin cushion!!!

But in other news, the Jimmer is doing great.  And aside from the minor dizzy spell this afternoon, (which was nothing a quick nap couldn't fix!) I'm doing great as well.  You would be surprised how tiring laying in bed building a baby can be!!  I get awful cranky if I don't get my nap in so I know it was just my body's way of telling me it was nap time!

I finished my second book - Nicholas Sparks The Choice - which I was so thrilled with the way it ended.  I finished Dear John last week and wasn't too happy about its ending.  I've been feeling awful depressed about the way a lot of Sparks books have been ending lately, but The Choice re-energized my faith in his storytelling abilities.  Now onto more Thank You card writing hopefully getting an opportunity to watch some of the DVDs the maternity educator graciously lent me since Neil and I won't be able to attend our child-birthing classes as scheduled.

And keeping my fingers crossed for the Kiesler's...c'mon Baby K!!!  Can't wait for your joyful arrival!!!

336 Hours

That's how long I have been lying helpless in this hospital bed.

Although, I have been promised that it will be worth it when he comes, it's still so hard to realize that while we have 336 hours under our belt...we still have 1,248 hours left to go.  But once we make it to Friday - and I'm official at 30 weeks - I think we'll feel like we're actually making progress.  Let's just hope the next 1,248 hours are uneventful!!

In other news, what a successful Ice Cream Social yesterday!  My mom and dad did such an awesome job making homemade ice cream and cookies and we had lots of visitors to come enjoy the goodies!!  It was so nice to have so many visitors spending the day with me!!  And Neil and his parents took a trip down to Edinburgh and came back with some super fun pajama pants and tank tops for me!!  I'm so lucky! :)

Slumber Party in 2013!!

What a weekend I have had!!

Saturday, Neil and I were lucky enough to have Jake and Tiffany come visit us while they went house hunting in Columbus.  We are sooooo excited to have them move back to Indiana and just hope they find a house that isn't TOO far away from us!  They hung out for about 3 hours as we discussed houses, jobs, how amazing Qdoba is, and of course played Sequence a couple times!  Then, on Saturday night, Dave went to get Little Mexico for us (yummm!!) and Neil, Dave, Ellen, Mom, Dad and myself enjoyed a nice Mexican fiesta!!  It was so good...I have been craving Little Mexico since I found myself in here almost two weeks ago!

Sunday started out a little scary as I woke up and passed a fairly large clot.  Fortunately, the Dr. and nurses aren't too worried about it - but of course, that didn't keep me from worrying my head off.  I was a nervous wreck all morning...but they assured me that everything was okay and we weren't going to need to deliver anytime soon!  But I still played it super careful all day, attempting to stay as absolutely horizontal as I could!! Mom and Dad came after church to comfort me then lovely Emily B. came and brought me the cutest little beaver stuffed animal!!  We chatted and visited for about an hour before she headed out and Ellen came to visit.  Once again, I was spoiled and got a lovely peppermint oil massage from her.  Let me just say that she could easily charge upwards from $50 for the massage she gave me!!!!  It was much appreciated, especially after my rough morning!  She also got me some super soft yarn so I could start knitting a blanket for Jimmer!  After Ellen left, Aunt Nan and Uncle Gary came to visit - which was such a wonderful surprise!!  We chatted about Jimmer and Grandma and Michelle as she began her new venture to Tennessee.  It was so nice to have so many visitors!!

But the best part of this weekend was my SLUMBER PARTY!!!!  Ellen was kind enough to spend the night with the pups so Neil could come and stay the night with me!  What's even better?! He brought me a MILKSHAKE!!!  When he got here, we started to watch a movie, then decided we'd just rather watch TV.  Then we headed down to the cafeteria for a quick dinner and back up to the room so I could begin my monitoring.  At about midnight, we were finally able to get to sleep.  But what made it even better was that I knew that come the morning, I would wake up and Neil would be here.  Even though I see him every day still, I miss him so much!

So this morning, we woke up together - even though his back (...and hips...and legs...and shoulders...) hurt so bad from the "bed" he slept on.  He went to get us breakfast while I began my morning monitoring.  So far, it has been an amazing morning!!  Can't wait for my Ice Cream Social today at 2:00pm!!!  More to come...

P.S. Happy anniversary, Emily and Eric!!  Can't believe it has been 2 years already!!

Just Another Day in Paradise

We made it to 29 weeks!!  At this point, every week is another major milestone - and another approximately 4 ounces of growth for little Jimmer.  And do you know what makes Friday's even better?  Dad brings me Long's Donuts every Friday!!  I couldn't ask for a better start to my Friday!!!!

A couple days ago, the nurse practitioner from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit came to speak with me.  She told me about the struggles he may face if he were born in the next couple of days and what things would look like with him being in NICU, etc.  She explained that even though I have received steroid shots to help with lung development, that he would likely still need some help breathing, but that his major concern would be with feeding.  He would need to be fed through a feeding tube and would probably be in an incubator to help regulate his temperature.  In terms of his length of stay in the NICU, she couldn't give an exact amount of time because, as you can imagine, all babies are different and it would be based on his individual growth and ability to feed and breath on his own.  Neil and I have been staying very positive in hopes that Jimmer doesn't have to make a trip to the NICU, but just in case, I decided to ask a nurse if we could see the NICU so we would know what to expect.  My mom and I got a little tour while one of the nurses explained to us the procedure and the different assistance they can provide to the baby.  She did also mention that the NICU is open for 24 hour visitation, which eased my mind in knowing that we could come visit our little guy at any time.  While I was in the NICU, I saw a little boy who was born the day I was admitted to Labor & Delivery.  He was currently weighing about 4 lbs and he was all cuddled up and looking just as cute as a button!!  Of course, we'd like for Jimmer to grow a bit longer in utero before he comes and joins us in the real world!!

After my fun little trip to NICU, I enjoyed a lovely lunch with my Aunt Chris.  Chick-fil-A...yum!!  We chit chatted, talked about Kim Kardashian's wedding, how much I miss my 3rd graders, and boating before 2:15 rolled around and it was time for my weekly massage.  Yes. You read that correctly.  My doctor has ordered weekly massages for me until delivery!!!  Which could not have come at a better time since my back is starting to become extremely painful!  And weekly massages until delivery?! I think I can hold out for 8 more weeks if I get to look forward to that every week!! :)  I enjoyed my 45-minute massage, which hit all the right places, and now I'm definitely looking forward to next week's massage!!

Shortly after my massage, I was visited by my wonderful Uncle Tom (whose birthday is today, by the way!!). He chatted with me and kept me company before heading off to the Whiteland football game where he was selling elephant ears as a swimming fundraiser (yummm!!!)

And the pampering continued...Mom came back to visit and gave me a lovely manicure (the best she could considering my IV start)!  No, not everyday is full of this much pampering, but I'm extremely grateful nonetheless!  I can truly say I have never felt so much love in all my life!  We are certainly feeling the prayers from afar and the random acts of kindness that I see every day are evidence that God really does exist...and he has given me the best family and friends a girl could ask for!!

Thank you to everyone who has come to visit me so far...and a special thank you to those who have done something to help Neil at home or work.  I honestly believe this is harder on him than it is on myself - so please, don't forget him!  He has been so strong through this entire ordeal and I know he feels so helpless - he is my best friend and I love him so much!!!! :)

Waiting for Jimmer

Since it turns out I will be here for the long haul, I thought it would be nice to chronicle my days (and weeks...and months...) in the hospital waiting for our little miracle!

As much as I can't wait to meet our little guy- I've learned that I must wait because little Jimmer needs to continue to "cook".  So hopefully, this will be an outlet for me to help pass the time - as well as keeping everyone informed as to what is going on with us!!

So stay tuned...it's sure to be a fun ride!!!