I just got back from my NST and OB appointment and everything's looking good, as I expected. I have lost weight in the past week and a half - I'm currently up 13lbs from my preconception weight. (Normal weight gain at 33.5 weeks is usually between 23-27 lbs). I don't understand how I've actually lost weight when I feel my tummy is bigger, and I've gained in my legs. So, I'm not exactly sure where I'm losing? Besides, all I do is eat and lounge. My doctor is going to keep an eye on it, but hasn't asked me to change my diet or up any calories.
It's yet another rainy day, and while I usually wouldn't complain, I am complaining because of our leak. I called around 15 roofing places within the past couple of days, and finally have someone coming out tomorrow. If I'm lucky, I'll have someone out today, but with all this rain...I doubt it.
Shellie had Lance drop off an extensive book collection for me to borrow! I'm so excited to get started...and I don't know which book I'm going to choose first. This is my plan for the rest of the day - read, lounge, nap, read, etc. Pretty exciting, right? I might bake a cake or cupcakes, too. I haven't done it in awhile and I'm wanting something sweet to snack on. The only issue with baking for me is that I end up eating 80% of it...but since my weight isn't a concern...I guess it doesn't matter. So later this afternoon I'll make a vanilla cake with vanilla almond butter cream frosting. That does sounds pretty tasty.
I'm feeling pretty tired today, so I'm going to go curl up with a book and bask in my laziness.
Thursday, July 12, 2012
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
When it Rains...
It pours. Literally and figuratively speaking, that is. While yes, our drought has finally subsided with much needed rain over the past three days, it also poses a new issue. I say a new issue, because since the start of 2012, we've had problem after problem without a break. Anyway, I thought all of our "issues" were going to be done today since I had my new breaks and rotors installed on my car (after having to shell out $400 to have a window fixed, plus all new tires at an additional cost, medical bills, and many unforeseen home costs). But low and behold, I look upon our ceiling and find a leak. It seems that our two story living room is needing new flashing/sealant around the chimney. I called two roofing companies today, who still have not called me back to schedule the service appointment....and it's supposed to rain all week! ARG. Looks like I will be making a few additional calls in the morning and can hopefully get someone out asap. I'm praying that it's not going to be an expensive fix.
Plus, right now with all of our ultrasounds and stress tests, and the great possibility that Madeline will be in the NICU, our medical bills are about to start piling up. Yes, we have insurance, but it certainly doesn't cover 100%. It is what it is, and we'll just have to take it one day at a time.
In other news, I had my first "false alarm" last night. It's kind of a funny story, really. I'm going to share it even though it's totally TMI, but I don't care. After my bath yesterday evening, I started having horrible Braxton Hicks contractions. I assumed it was because I had been busy all day long - before I knew I was going to be put on bed rest - and proceeded with my usual night routine of cooking dinner. The contractions grew more frequently, more painful. I sat down, drank water...followed all the standard protocols for Braxton Hicks. Nothing helped. After dinner, I went up stairs, laid on the couch for about an hour...and no let up. They actually became more frequent, more painful. They felt like menstrual cramps and wrapped around my lower back. Tommy and I decided that I probably needed to call the on call doctor, who then told us to head to the hospital.
I quickly packed my bag, my adrenaline was up, and I was a little freaked out. Then, I had another "contraction" and immediately had some hot air come out of my back side...then burping. Hmm...could it be gas? Surely not. I walked around for a bit, and they were getting less frequent. Tommy put my bag in the car, and then, I thought...well....maybe it IS just gas? I decided to give it another 30 minutes or so to see what the deal is. Yep, definitely gas. A gas pocket must have been stuck near my pelvic region. Could you imagine...going to the ER for gas pain? LOL. Thankfully, that's all it was. And the culprit was a Sonic Strawberry Shake that I had the day before, that left my stomach unsettled. No more Sonic ice cream for me.
Sophie has also been unsettled the past few days. She's started to pace our catwalk overlooking our foyer/living area and randomly begin barking. What's even more strange, when I let her out to potty, she's been only peeing on our sidewalk. She'll poop in the grass...but refuses to pee in the grass. She even peed on the deck! I don't know what's up with her. I'm also hoping the transition and introduction of Madeline goes smoothly. She doesn't get jealous easily, but she has definitely played the role of my "baby" for the past years. She's an interesting character. She has severe separation anxiety while I'm away, but if I'm home, she is independent and enjoys her space. Hopefully, she'll start calming down and peeing in the grass again. What's up with that?
Because I cannot resist, here's my favorite photo of Sophie:
And Sophie watching me as I blog about her:
She's so freaking cute!
Plus, right now with all of our ultrasounds and stress tests, and the great possibility that Madeline will be in the NICU, our medical bills are about to start piling up. Yes, we have insurance, but it certainly doesn't cover 100%. It is what it is, and we'll just have to take it one day at a time.
In other news, I had my first "false alarm" last night. It's kind of a funny story, really. I'm going to share it even though it's totally TMI, but I don't care. After my bath yesterday evening, I started having horrible Braxton Hicks contractions. I assumed it was because I had been busy all day long - before I knew I was going to be put on bed rest - and proceeded with my usual night routine of cooking dinner. The contractions grew more frequently, more painful. I sat down, drank water...followed all the standard protocols for Braxton Hicks. Nothing helped. After dinner, I went up stairs, laid on the couch for about an hour...and no let up. They actually became more frequent, more painful. They felt like menstrual cramps and wrapped around my lower back. Tommy and I decided that I probably needed to call the on call doctor, who then told us to head to the hospital.
I quickly packed my bag, my adrenaline was up, and I was a little freaked out. Then, I had another "contraction" and immediately had some hot air come out of my back side...then burping. Hmm...could it be gas? Surely not. I walked around for a bit, and they were getting less frequent. Tommy put my bag in the car, and then, I thought...well....maybe it IS just gas? I decided to give it another 30 minutes or so to see what the deal is. Yep, definitely gas. A gas pocket must have been stuck near my pelvic region. Could you imagine...going to the ER for gas pain? LOL. Thankfully, that's all it was. And the culprit was a Sonic Strawberry Shake that I had the day before, that left my stomach unsettled. No more Sonic ice cream for me.
Sophie has also been unsettled the past few days. She's started to pace our catwalk overlooking our foyer/living area and randomly begin barking. What's even more strange, when I let her out to potty, she's been only peeing on our sidewalk. She'll poop in the grass...but refuses to pee in the grass. She even peed on the deck! I don't know what's up with her. I'm also hoping the transition and introduction of Madeline goes smoothly. She doesn't get jealous easily, but she has definitely played the role of my "baby" for the past years. She's an interesting character. She has severe separation anxiety while I'm away, but if I'm home, she is independent and enjoys her space. Hopefully, she'll start calming down and peeing in the grass again. What's up with that?
Because I cannot resist, here's my favorite photo of Sophie:
And Sophie watching me as I blog about her:
She's so freaking cute!
Monday, July 9, 2012
Appointment Update
We just got back from our appointment and great news - Madeline is not coming this week! Yay! We had a biophysical ultrasound (checking blood flow, placenta, fluids, etc.), and everything came back normal.
Every week will be touch and go. On Mondays, I'll have biophysical ultrasound and/or growth ultrasound and every Thursday will be a non-stress test (NST). My OB said I definitely am not going to make it past 38 weeks, and we'll just have to keep a close eye on when we do need to take her out. AND, I might not have to have a c-section, but induced instead....just depending on Madeline's condition. Also, reassuring news.
I'm not concerned about the NSTs on Thursdays because Madeline is very active. Basically, they hook a belt like contraption up to my belly and measure her breathing and movements. I'll of course be anxious every Monday, but I feel much better now after my appointment.
My OB stated that if she were to have to come next week at 34 weeks, she might only be in the NICU for a couple days, and at 35 weeks, maybe not at all. It just depends on her lung function and feeding. Of course, 37 weeks for a girl is considered full term. They'd like to keep her in my stomach for as long as possible, but it really just depends on her growth and testing each week.
We did not have a growth ultrasound today because it's too soon to see a significant amount of growth since I just had one last week. I believe I have one next Monday....but I'm a little confused because of all the appointments (which I've scheduled). I'll ask this Thursday when I see my OB again for the NST.
Unfortunately, I'm on modified bed rest. Boo. But, it's what is best for Madeline. Looks like Tommy gets to enjoy housework and grocery shopping. And, she said I can still do some light activities. I don't have to become a recluse on the couch/bed, but I do need to take it easy. (Which is difficult for me).
All in all, a good appointment today. We'll have to see what next Monday's appointment brings. My hospital bag is packed and ready to go just in case. And like I said, I do have Thursday appointments, but I'm not too concerned. Those are just for extra precaution.
Every week will be touch and go. On Mondays, I'll have biophysical ultrasound and/or growth ultrasound and every Thursday will be a non-stress test (NST). My OB said I definitely am not going to make it past 38 weeks, and we'll just have to keep a close eye on when we do need to take her out. AND, I might not have to have a c-section, but induced instead....just depending on Madeline's condition. Also, reassuring news.
I'm not concerned about the NSTs on Thursdays because Madeline is very active. Basically, they hook a belt like contraption up to my belly and measure her breathing and movements. I'll of course be anxious every Monday, but I feel much better now after my appointment.
My OB stated that if she were to have to come next week at 34 weeks, she might only be in the NICU for a couple days, and at 35 weeks, maybe not at all. It just depends on her lung function and feeding. Of course, 37 weeks for a girl is considered full term. They'd like to keep her in my stomach for as long as possible, but it really just depends on her growth and testing each week.
We did not have a growth ultrasound today because it's too soon to see a significant amount of growth since I just had one last week. I believe I have one next Monday....but I'm a little confused because of all the appointments (which I've scheduled). I'll ask this Thursday when I see my OB again for the NST.
Unfortunately, I'm on modified bed rest. Boo. But, it's what is best for Madeline. Looks like Tommy gets to enjoy housework and grocery shopping. And, she said I can still do some light activities. I don't have to become a recluse on the couch/bed, but I do need to take it easy. (Which is difficult for me).
All in all, a good appointment today. We'll have to see what next Monday's appointment brings. My hospital bag is packed and ready to go just in case. And like I said, I do have Thursday appointments, but I'm not too concerned. Those are just for extra precaution.
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Speculation
I would be lying if I said that I'm not concerned, worried, or stressed about tomorrow's appointment. It's been running through my mind since I received the phone call. And, of course, I've had to Google everything under the sun with my condition, and I've spoken to several people who've gone through this.
From what I've gathered, those with Asymmetrical IUGR (yes, it's what I have), are carefully monitored up until delivery and/or 36 weeks. I say 36 weeks because doctor's typically do not allow for the patient to go beyond 36 weeks due to increased risks. The cause of *my* Asymmetrical IUGR (there can be many factors) is the abnormal flow from the cord, which is also causing the very low abdominal growth (8%), and my slowed belly growth. Basically, we're preparing ourselves for Madeline's arrival within the next 3 weeks. It could even be as early as tomorrow....depending on the results from my new ultrasound.
Basically, if the umbilical cord flow is not allowing her to get the proper nutrients, oxygen, and blood flow, and she'd do better outside of my belly, they'll remove her. However, if there has been any improvement within the last week, they'll keep a close eye on her (with my biweekly ultrasounds) and decide the appropriate time for delivery.
Unfortunately, you can follow every pregnancy rule and still have complications. There isn't anything that could have been done to prevent my condition. I may be able to get a steriod shot on Monday to help with Madeline's lung function, and my OB may recommend baby aspirin. However, every OB is different, and I'll wait until I have direct orders.
Babies with IUGR usually spend some time in the NICU or Special Care Unit depending on how severe the case or how early they are delivered. However, the majority end up being perfectly fine in the the end. We are also prepared that we are most likely not going to be able to bring her home with us right away.
My mother is convinced I'm going to be put on bed rest, and it is a possibility. I'm already going stir crazy and I'm bored out of my mind since I'm having Braxton Hicks and back pain and can't really do much. I've just stuck with light cleaning, cooking, and running errands, but I might not even be able to do that.
Also, it's pretty certain that I'll have to have a c-section. While I know it's the best for Madeline, I also have a huge fear of surgery. I've only had minor surgery once (oral surgery) and it was a complete nightmare....so this is where my fear comes from. I guess I'm just going to have to suck it up and put my big girl panties on.
We'll see what my OB (whom I love) has to say tomorrow afternoon. I'm a big researcher and I like to prepare myself for everything....and every option. At least I know what the processes and procedures are, and it's not going to be a big shock.
Right now, Madeline is kicking away in my stomach and pushing on my rib cage...so that's very reassuring!
From what I've gathered, those with Asymmetrical IUGR (yes, it's what I have), are carefully monitored up until delivery and/or 36 weeks. I say 36 weeks because doctor's typically do not allow for the patient to go beyond 36 weeks due to increased risks. The cause of *my* Asymmetrical IUGR (there can be many factors) is the abnormal flow from the cord, which is also causing the very low abdominal growth (8%), and my slowed belly growth. Basically, we're preparing ourselves for Madeline's arrival within the next 3 weeks. It could even be as early as tomorrow....depending on the results from my new ultrasound.
Basically, if the umbilical cord flow is not allowing her to get the proper nutrients, oxygen, and blood flow, and she'd do better outside of my belly, they'll remove her. However, if there has been any improvement within the last week, they'll keep a close eye on her (with my biweekly ultrasounds) and decide the appropriate time for delivery.
Unfortunately, you can follow every pregnancy rule and still have complications. There isn't anything that could have been done to prevent my condition. I may be able to get a steriod shot on Monday to help with Madeline's lung function, and my OB may recommend baby aspirin. However, every OB is different, and I'll wait until I have direct orders.
Babies with IUGR usually spend some time in the NICU or Special Care Unit depending on how severe the case or how early they are delivered. However, the majority end up being perfectly fine in the the end. We are also prepared that we are most likely not going to be able to bring her home with us right away.
My mother is convinced I'm going to be put on bed rest, and it is a possibility. I'm already going stir crazy and I'm bored out of my mind since I'm having Braxton Hicks and back pain and can't really do much. I've just stuck with light cleaning, cooking, and running errands, but I might not even be able to do that.
Also, it's pretty certain that I'll have to have a c-section. While I know it's the best for Madeline, I also have a huge fear of surgery. I've only had minor surgery once (oral surgery) and it was a complete nightmare....so this is where my fear comes from. I guess I'm just going to have to suck it up and put my big girl panties on.
We'll see what my OB (whom I love) has to say tomorrow afternoon. I'm a big researcher and I like to prepare myself for everything....and every option. At least I know what the processes and procedures are, and it's not going to be a big shock.
Right now, Madeline is kicking away in my stomach and pushing on my rib cage...so that's very reassuring!
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Reviews
Since I'm trying to keep myself occupied this weekend, I thought I'd take a few moments and review a few products that I've been meaning to do for quite awhile now.
First, I am going to start off with the most delicious ice cream bars I have ever had: Magnum Bars. Yes, I fell for their marketing campaign. My favorite are the double caramel bars. The outside layer is a decadent Belgian milk chocolate coating, then a layer of oozing chocolate sauce, another layer of caramel sauce, then you get to the vanilla bean ice cream. These ice cream bars are truly amazing. Tommy really enjoys the mint bars, but I'm not a big mint and ice cream fan. The next flavor I have to try are the "white" bars with white chocolate and vanilla bean. I will admit, these bars are pretty pricey, but right now there's a coupon available at coupons.com. Also, they've gone on sale a few times at Publix in the past few weeks. These are my new favorite summer treat!
Speaking of Publix, I'm switching back. I went to Harris Teeter this week to do a full grocery shopping trip, and well, they didn't have much of a selection and several items were priced $1-$2 higher than Publix. I think I'll just go to Harris Teeter when they offer their double coupon promotions up to $2. I was sad that they didn't even carry some staple items that I buy every week...but oh well.
Next up, I am trying out TRESemme's Split Remedy hair line. A couple of weeks ago I stumbled upon the spray in/leave in conditioner when I was needing it for a swimming day. Oddly, it was the only leave in conditioner I could find at Target, so I figured it would have to just do. I loved the leave in spray, so I thought I'd give the shampoo and conditioner a try. So far, so good. It leaves my hair soft, manageable, and feeling stronger. I'll report back in a couple of weeks and let you know if it is actually any good. And, on a side note, TRESemme's dry shampoo rocks! I use it all the time, and has become an essential product for me.
If you recall a few months back, I reviewed Suave's Keratin line. I completely forgot to mention that I ended up having to stop using the products because they were stripping out my hair color! So, I will NOT be using these products again!
That's it for me for now. I think I need a nap!
Speaking of Publix, I'm switching back. I went to Harris Teeter this week to do a full grocery shopping trip, and well, they didn't have much of a selection and several items were priced $1-$2 higher than Publix. I think I'll just go to Harris Teeter when they offer their double coupon promotions up to $2. I was sad that they didn't even carry some staple items that I buy every week...but oh well.
Next up, I am trying out TRESemme's Split Remedy hair line. A couple of weeks ago I stumbled upon the spray in/leave in conditioner when I was needing it for a swimming day. Oddly, it was the only leave in conditioner I could find at Target, so I figured it would have to just do. I loved the leave in spray, so I thought I'd give the shampoo and conditioner a try. So far, so good. It leaves my hair soft, manageable, and feeling stronger. I'll report back in a couple of weeks and let you know if it is actually any good. And, on a side note, TRESemme's dry shampoo rocks! I use it all the time, and has become an essential product for me.If you recall a few months back, I reviewed Suave's Keratin line. I completely forgot to mention that I ended up having to stop using the products because they were stripping out my hair color! So, I will NOT be using these products again!
That's it for me for now. I think I need a nap!
Friday, July 6, 2012
Thoughts and Prayers
I posted on Monday about my 32 Week OB appointment and growth ultrasound.
On Monday, they only received the "short" report from the ultrasound...and today they received the full report.
There are still issues with the umbilical flow, my belly size, and her abdominal is measuring 8th percentile (all other measurements are normal). Originally, I was going to go in next Wednesday for another u/s for her umbilical cord..then another growth u/s in 2 weeks.
Well, because of the "full report" they received today, they bumped my appointment up to this Monday, and I'll need to come in twice per week for ultrasounds. I'll get more information on Monday, but I'm really hoping that Madeline's okay.
They apologized profusely for calling late on a Friday afternoon, but they wanted to make sure to get me in on Monday...and if it weren't for the holiday this week, I would have come in this morning.
They urged me to call or go to the ER this weekend if anything seems "off." Especially kick counts, activity, etc. Thankfully, today and yesterday she's been super active with kicks and rolling around.
Hopefully, they are just being proactive and wanting to monitor to make sure everything's going okay. But, of course, there's a chance that she might even come earlier than we thought if anything is significantly wrong.
Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. This is going to be a very long weekend.
On Monday, they only received the "short" report from the ultrasound...and today they received the full report.
There are still issues with the umbilical flow, my belly size, and her abdominal is measuring 8th percentile (all other measurements are normal). Originally, I was going to go in next Wednesday for another u/s for her umbilical cord..then another growth u/s in 2 weeks.
Well, because of the "full report" they received today, they bumped my appointment up to this Monday, and I'll need to come in twice per week for ultrasounds. I'll get more information on Monday, but I'm really hoping that Madeline's okay.
They apologized profusely for calling late on a Friday afternoon, but they wanted to make sure to get me in on Monday...and if it weren't for the holiday this week, I would have come in this morning.
They urged me to call or go to the ER this weekend if anything seems "off." Especially kick counts, activity, etc. Thankfully, today and yesterday she's been super active with kicks and rolling around.
Hopefully, they are just being proactive and wanting to monitor to make sure everything's going okay. But, of course, there's a chance that she might even come earlier than we thought if anything is significantly wrong.
Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. This is going to be a very long weekend.
What day is it?
My days are totally off due to the 4th of July falling right smack in the middle of the week! Although, this week has flown by and I can't believe it's almost the weekend. Tuesday night, we went to dinner with Rick and Shelby and they came by to see our house. Then, on the 4th, Tommy and I had a "lazy day" until we got ready to head over to Lance and Shellie's for a shrimp boil. We hadn't had a chance to visit with them or the kids in awhile, so it was fun to get to catch up again. Plus, I was able to ask Shellie any random newborn/pregnancy questions that I was unsure of.
I'm not too sure what our plans are for this weekend. I know Ray is coming over to help remove boxes from our garage (we seriously must have 100 or more boxes from our move/renovation projects). We have storage boxes in our garage that need to be moved to our storage room, but it's just way too hot to even attempt. It's been in the 100s well over a week now.
Because I'm bored, I thought I'd post a progression of belly pics from start to finish. Scroll down if you're interested!
10 Weeks:
15 Weeks:
18.5 Weeks:
20 Weeks:
22.5 Weeks:
24 Weeks:
29 Weeks:
32 Weeks:
You can definitely tell that I finally "popped" at 26 weeks. My belly is starting to feel a little bigger everyday now. I try to wait to take pictures 2-3 weeks apart so you can tell a noticeable difference. Unfortunately, I didn't take any photos until 10 weeks. I wish I would have at least gotten a 4 week photo for a true start to finish, but oh well.
I'm not exactly sure what's in store for the rest of my day. I'll probably finish up some laundry, and just stay indoors as far away from the heat as I can.
I'm not too sure what our plans are for this weekend. I know Ray is coming over to help remove boxes from our garage (we seriously must have 100 or more boxes from our move/renovation projects). We have storage boxes in our garage that need to be moved to our storage room, but it's just way too hot to even attempt. It's been in the 100s well over a week now.
Because I'm bored, I thought I'd post a progression of belly pics from start to finish. Scroll down if you're interested!
10 Weeks:
15 Weeks:
17 Weeks:
18.5 Weeks:
20 Weeks:
22.5 Weeks:
24 Weeks:
26 Weeks:
28 Weeks:
29 Weeks:
32 Weeks:
You can definitely tell that I finally "popped" at 26 weeks. My belly is starting to feel a little bigger everyday now. I try to wait to take pictures 2-3 weeks apart so you can tell a noticeable difference. Unfortunately, I didn't take any photos until 10 weeks. I wish I would have at least gotten a 4 week photo for a true start to finish, but oh well.
I'm not exactly sure what's in store for the rest of my day. I'll probably finish up some laundry, and just stay indoors as far away from the heat as I can.
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