Third Pregnancy Recap - First Half

Even though I haven't blogged in FOREVER, I want to at least get this info in writing before I forget it all.

I had a suspicion I *might* be pregnant towards the middle to end of February, but every test I took was negative.  I was crampy, nauseous, moody, and had twinges in my uterus I had only felt when I was pregnant before.  Finally on Monday, February 27th, I got the faintest of positive tests.  I then proceeded to take 3 more that day, and they all showed up as positive.

I told Joshua that Monday night after he got home from Lane's basketball practice and the kids were asleep.  We were both shocked, but excited.  I had always wanted a third child, but this came as quite the surprise!

Over the next few weeks I had multiple blood draws to check my HCG and progesterone levels, which took a while to increase.  I also started supplemental progesterone as a precaution.

At our first ultrasound, baby measured 6w1d and we saw a heartbeat, but it was slow (~95bpm).  We were then told to come back two weeks later to recheck, and when we did everything was progressing as it should.

I spent the first 10-12 weeks very nauseous and exhausted.  It was hard to keep the secret at work because I just felt so miserable all of the time, plus my belly always starts to pop right away.  We also held off on telling the kids until after the first trimester.

Because of my history of preterm labor/delivery with Owen at 32w6d, I started receiving the Makena injections at 16 weeks to hopefully reduce the risk of this baby being a preemie.  The first shot was given in the office, and every other one Josh has given me at home.  This will continue until the end of my 35th week or baby is born, whichever comes first.  Owen thinks its hilarious that Daddy gives me the shot "in the butt" (intramuscular injection in the back of my hip), and Lane is terrified whenever I have to get it and hides in the other room.

Also around 16 weeks I started having Braxton-Hicks contractions quite frequently, so I try to really keep my water intake up, lie down whenever I can, and just listen to my body.

I have an anterior placenta this time around, which has made feeling this baby much more difficult; its like all of the movements are muffled instead of stronger like with my last two pregnancies.

We found out during our 20 week anatomy scan that this baby is a little GIRL, which completely surprised me.  I was so sure we were having a third boy, and I even had his name picked out.  I cried when the tech told us her gender, because I was so surprised and excited.  It seemed so strange at first to be expecting a girl, but it now feels "right" and like she was always meant to join our family.

That's about it for the first half of this pregnancy!  I am trying to savor every moment, no matter how uncomfortable, because this is likely our very last baby.  Fingers crossed we make it well into the third trimester before we meet this little girl!

I Had It All Planned Out

I am such a Type-A person, who likes plans, and schedules, and lists.  I applied all of these principles to Owen's pregnancy and birth, and obviously a great deal of my plans didn't work out.

Lane's pregnancy was a complete surprise to us- we were NOT expecting to become pregnant, but it was a welcome blessing that we absolutely would not change.

Owen's pregnancy was very much planned; we knew we wanted to add another baby to our family, we knew when we wanted that to happen, and happen it did, right on schedule.

I had plans to pack our hospital bags, Lane's suitcase, and install the infant car seat soon after my baby shower, right around 36 weeks.  I even spent the evening before I went into labor discussing all of my plans with my mom!  Little did I know, I would go into labor that night, and would be rushing home the next day to throw stuff in a bag to take to Tacoma.

Although I had a great experience with my epidural with  Lane, I REALLY wanted to have a natural childbirth this time around.  So, like with everything I do, I began researching.  I read blogs, I read books, I watched YouTube videos, I talked to people, I practiced labor techniques, etc.  I really felt like I could do this.  And guess what?  I got an epidural.  And I don't regret it.  I think the stress of the situation and just how quickly everything was progressing made me feel out of control.  At home, I was able to use natural childbirth laboring techniques to manage the pain.  But after arriving at the hospital, everything was so rushed that I was never able to calm myself, remember what I had practiced, or put it into practice.  Because of Owen's prematurity, there was no laboring in a tub or shower, no bouncing on a birth ball, no trying different labor positions.  I arrived at the hospital so dilated (7cm and bulging water) that we had to move quickly to get antibiotics in me, get an IV started, get a team assembled to care for Owen, etc.  The epidural gave us a few minutes to calm down, realize the severity of the situation, and talk about what would likely happen once he was born.  I think that if we decide to have more babies, I would be able to handle a normal, term delivery naturally, and that is something I hope I get to experience.

With Lane's birth, he had to go to the Special Care Nursery a few minutes after birth due to difficulty with breathing.  I was able to hold him when he was born, but didn't get to breastfeed him for several hours.  I also missed him being weighed and measured and bathed.  I was so excited to have that experience this time around- and again it didn't go as planned.  I even told Josh one weepy night "I just want to give birth to a baby and be able to keep him with me for once!".

I had planned to have Lane at the hospital when Owen was born, so that Lane could be the first person from our family to meet him.  I wanted Lane to come into our room, climb on the bed with me, and meet his brother (and learn his name, since that was a secret).  I wanted Josh to walk into the waiting room filled with our family, and announce that Owen Ellis Davis was born (since none of them knew his name either).  Instead, Lane was at Josh's mom's house, and while my family was in the waiting room, they only got to see Owen through his incubator walls on his way to Tacoma General.  When Lane saw Owen for the first time, he was in his incubator, attached to tubes and machines, and I wasn't there.  I missed the first interaction between my boys, and it breaks my heart.

So, if this labor and birth experience has taught me nothing else, it has taught me to "go with the flow" more.  I am (slowly) learning to let go of things, and just embrace what comes.  It doesn't mean I won't still try to plan things, but at least I can accept when things don't go as planned!

Maternity Photos

I'm just now getting around to posting them, but here are a few of our maternity photos!  These were taken by my amazing cousin Amanda, from Amanda Kay Photography. We took them at the Saint Martin's Campus, a place near and dear to my heart.

Birth Story, Part 3

Now that the doctor was in position, I was able to push freely with each contraction.  I would feel one coming, and Josh would start to count to ten while I held onto the backs of my legs.  Stephanie and Josh each help one leg, and as soon as Josh got to ten, I would stop pushing, take another deep breath, hold it, and push for another count of ten.  We did this three times for each contraction.

I couldn't feel a difference between contractions, as in Lane moving down or not.  But all of a sudden, it burned.  The doctor had me stop pushing, which was HARD, so he wouldn't come out too quickly.  And then with one more big push, and one more small push, Lane Marshall Davis was born.

It was 3:06 AM, and I had only pushed for 13 minutes.

It also happened to be my Dad's birthday.  We had always jokey that maybe Lane would be born on his birthday, but never did he actually expect it to happen.

Lane was immediately placed on my belly, and Josh cut his umbilical cord.  He was then moved up to my chest for skin-to-skin contact, and the nurses helped me wipe him off a little.  I always wondered if I would be grossed out by my baby being covered in all that "goo", but I saw right past it to my beautiful new son.  I kissed his little head, and held his tiny hand.  I am so thankful we had our camera handy, as Josh was able to capture photos of Lane's first moments of life; pictures I will cherish forever.

Although Lane was crying after he was born, the nurses called it "singing", as it wasn't the deep, strong, clear cry they wanted him to have.  We kept rubbing him with blankets, tickling his feet, etc., but he just didn't want to cry very strongly.  So, although I had plans to breastfeed him right away, the baby nurse took him to his isolette to check him out.  His color was great, but they just weren't quite satisfied with his crying, even after suctioning his nose and mouth out more.  So, they called in a nurse from the Special Care Nursery.

I was terrified something was wrong, but I was stuck in my hospital bed, unable to go be by Lane's side.  The new nurse came in with a cart of machines, and hooked him up to an oxygen meter.  His oxygen levels were great, which was a relief.  After spending several minutes with him, the nurse decided to take him down to the Special Care Nursery for further evaluation.  She wrapped him in a blanket, and handed him to Josh for the first time.  Josh brought Lane over to me, so I could hold him one more time before they took him away.  Luckily, Josh was allowed to go with the nurse, so he took the camera and off they went.

I was left in my room, with just my nurse, wondering if my new baby would be okay.  Amazingly, I didn't cry though.  I think my emotions were so all over the place, I was too in shock to cry.

Stephanie asked if I wanted to invite any family in with me so I wouldn't be alone.  I told her my mom and Josh's mom could come back.  They came in, all smiles, looking around the room.  And then I had to explain that my new sweet baby was not okay.  I could tell they both tried to act like it wasn't a big deal, so that I wouldn't worry even more.

Eventually the rest of our family came in, and Josh came back with an update.  Lane was doing okay, but they still wanted to monitor him for a little longer.  He was breathing on his own, his oxygen levels were fine, and he was awake and alert, but still sounded kind of congested in his lungs.  We (or I) still didn't know how much Lane weighed or how long he was, and thats when Josh told me he was 8 lbs. 5.7 oz, and 21 1/4 inches long.  He also brought my camera back with him, so I could see pictures.

Our family went back out to stand outside the nursery door so they could look through the window, and were lucky enough to be able to go in and visit him.  It broke my heart that I couldn't go down there yet, and that everyone was getting to know my new baby before me.

Luckily, Josh was able to be present to watch them weigh him, bathe him, and see him alert and looking around.  Around 5:30 AM, the nurse took me to the nursery to try to nurse Lane.  While still in my wheelchair, they handed my precious boy to me, still hooked up to the monitors.  The nurses were great about helping me get Lane latched on, and also explaining what each machine was.  They assured me he was doing great, and it wouldn't be long before he would be back in my room.

After only ten minutes or so, I started to feel light-headed.  Not wanting to risk dropping Lane, I had Josh call for the nurse, and I was taken back to my room to lie down.  I hated leaving Lane after such a short time, but I knew I was putting him at risk by trying to fight it.

The pediatrician from the office we had chosen that was doing rounds at the hospital that day was coming in at 8 AM, and so we knew we had to wait for her to evaluate Lane before there was a possibility of him coming to our room.  I watched the clock, and finally at 8:30 AM, the nurse and doctor came in, pushing a bassinet with my swaddled son inside.  The doctor explained that because Lane came so quickly, he didn't have enough time to be "squeezed" by my body, which helps expel all the congestion in his respiratory system.  So, he needed extra time to get all that out.  Dr. O'Leary gave us things to watch for, and it was reassuring knowing our new nurse, Erin, was experienced in working in the Special Care Nursery.

So, we settled into a rhythm of nursing, changing diapers, being poked/prodded by nurses, and hosting visitors.  I don't think either of really slept more than an hour or two, as we were running on adrenaline.

There were a few times we called the nurse to come check on Lane, as his breathing sounded abnormal.  Each time, he checked out just fine.  I think because of the earlier scare, we were extra paranoid.  But each time, we were reassured that it was better to have him checked than to ignore it.

Overall, our birth experience was extraordinary.  It still seems surreal to me, and each time I think about it, I remember a different detail I missed the previous time.  It still amazes me that I have a son, and that I am now a mom.  Thinking about my pregnancy, labor and delivery, and now having Lane home with us still brings me to tears- he is changing so quickly, and now at almost six weeks old, he is a completely different baby than just a few short weeks ago.  Although this birth story has been loooooong, I'm so glad I took the time to document it, if only for my own sake down the road.

Birth Story, Part 2

LE04 was a Labor and Delivery Evaluation room – basically triage.  We had been in these rooms before; once after my car accident at 25 weeks, and once the night before when I went in for fetal movement monitoring.  Our nurse’s name was Stephanie, and we LOVED her.  She honestly was a huge factor in what made our labor experience so wonderful.  I peed in a cup, put a gown on, and climbed into the bed.  Stephanie hooked me up to a fetal monitor, a contraction monitor, a blood pressure cuff, and a pulse oximeter.  Lane was doing fine, but my blood pressure was again high.  She checked my cervix, and I was still only 4 cm dilated.  She then told me I would probably be asked to walk around the hospital for an hour, to see if any progress could be made.  However, after consulting with the on-call doctor, she told me I would not have to walk, as my blood pressure needed to be monitored.  So, I stayed in bed for the next hour, having near-constant contractions. 

After a little while, Stephanie came back in and had me try lying on my side, as Lane kept moving away from the monitor.  I couldn’t get comfortable in any position; having to stay where I was and not be able to move around during contractions killed me.  I kept telling Josh, “What if they send me home?  I can’t get back in the car and ride 30+ minutes.  I don’t want to go home.”  It basically continued like this for another 45 min. or so.  I would have a horrible contraction, Josh would dig his fists into my low back as hard as he could, the contraction would end, and I would panic over whether or not I was going home.  Then, we would do it all over again.

Finally, about an hour after getting into our room, Stephanie and Dr. Gage came in to assess my progress.  When Dr. Gage checked me, I just kept silently praying that there would be progress.

And there was!  I was 5 cm dilated, and Lane had moved down even more.  Dr. Gage said she would get the paperwork going to have me admitted, and Stephanie told me she already had a room ready for me because she could tell when we arrived that we would probably be staying.  They both knew I wanted an epidural, so the request was already in for the anesthesiologist to down.


Stephanie said I could be unhooked from the monitors for the time being, which meant I was able to get up and move around.  This was a HUGE relief, as I could get into whatever position felt most comfortable during a contraction.


Josh and I kept smiling and giggling, still not really believing we were going to be having our baby soon.  We took this time of waiting for our room to start calling our families.  We used the hospital room phone, knowing it would show up on people's caller ID's as "Providence St. Peter's".  We called Josh's mom, Josh's dad, my parents, and my boss (I had to let her know I wouldn't be coming to work the next day!).  Everyone was so excited, and we knew the waiting room would soon be filling up with our families.


Shortly after, Stephanie came back in to our room, and we made the move to our labor suite.  I was hooked back up to all the monitors, and my IV was started.  Being 39 weeks pregnant, I constantly had to pee, and having an IV of fluids didn't help matters.  I was still having horrible contractions, but Stephanie reassured me the anesthesiologist would be arriving soon.

Not long after moving, our families arrived!  My mom and dad, Josh's mom and step-dad, Josh's dad, my aunt Pam, and my cousin Jessica all showed up to await the arrival of baby Lane.  It was slightly awkward having everyone in the room, because everyone was standing around talking while I was having contractions, and I was trying to not moan/groan/scream too much.  At one point, Jessica asked how many kids I wanted, as I've always said two or three.  I simply held up my arm straight in the arm, with my pointer finger sticking up, and proclaimed, "ONE!".  I also told Josh that next time I said I wanted a baby, just to get me a puppy instead.  Obviously, the pain from labor was hindering my thoughts on wanting more children.  No one stayed long, as it was about time for the anesthesiologist.

But then, Stephanie came to deliver the bad news- the doctor had been called into emergency heart surgery, so they had to call another anesthesiologist from home to come in.  So obviously, it would be a little longer before I got my epidural.  Stephanie offered me a shot in my IV to help with the pain in the meantime, but I told her I thought I could handle waiting.  I so badly wanted to be strong, and push myself through the pain.  I continued with the contractions, but soon I was telling Josh I didn't think I could handle it anymore.  I was almost in tears, and literally felt like I could not make it through another contraction.  He told me I was doing great, and that if I needed that shot, it was just fine.  I intended to tell Stephanie when she came back in that I wanted the pain shot.  As soon as she walked through the door, however, she announced that the anesthesiologist was here!  In he came, with all of his tools, and he got to work.

The epidural itself wasn't painful; it was having contractions while in a scrunched-up position without being able to move that was rough.  Josh had to sit in a chair away from me, and I know it killed him to watch me be in pain without being able to help.

I want to say here how amazing of a job Josh did while I was in labor.  He stayed calm, which helped keep me calm.  He also knew that I needed kind, supportive encouragement, rather than harsher support (like he would need in a similar situation).  He helped me remember to breath long, slow, deep breaths, rather than short and shallow ones that I tended towards.  I was so thankful to have him there with me, and cannot wait to experience it all over again when we have child #2.

My mom giving me a pep talk!

So, after I received my epidural, I could immediately feel its effects.  My left side was affected more than the right, so I laid on my right side to try to let gravity move the medication towards that side.  I could still slightly feel my contractions, but they were barely noticeable.  I did, however, get sick right after having the epidural, which wasn't pleasant.  So much for that pizza...  At this time, Stephanie inserted my catheter, as I didn't think I could wait any longer to use the bathroom, and obviously I couldn't feel my legs.  What an amazing feeling it was to finally not have that feeling- all pregnant women should have a catheter for the entire 40 weeks!

Everyone got a kick out of watching the contractions on the monitor, since I couldn't feel them.

Now that I was feeling good again, we invited our family back in for a short while.  I told everyone how amazing of an invention the epidural was, and that I could NOT see how anyone would labor without one!  Right after receiving the epidural, I got the shakes really badly.  I didn't feel cold, but I couldn't make my teeth quit chattering or the rest of my body quit shaking.  This really freaked Josh out, and everyone kept asking if I was cold and needed more blankets.  I kept saying no, but finally accepted a warmed blanket to make everyone feel better.

Dr. Gage came in soon after, and announced she was going to break my water.  Our family retreated to the waiting room, with the promise that we would update them with progress as it came.  Dr. Gage broke my water with her little tool, and it was a weird and slightly gross feeling to have the warm liquid running down my legs without being able to stop it.  I was also given Pitocin, to help progress my contractions.  Stephanie explained that the contractions were "coupling", meaning I was having 2-3 contractions in a row without much of a break in between.  The Pitocin would hopefully make that stop.  Since now we just had to sit and wait, we decided to rest.  We had the lights dimmed, and turned on the TV to try to lull ourself to sleep.  I think I slept more than Josh, but I still didn't sleep much.  We had planned on telling our family when we got to 8-9 cm, so they would know pushing would be happening soon.

I started feeling a lot of pain in my pelvic bones around 1:30 AM, and mentioned it to the nurse.  Stephanie said she wasn't surprised, as she had noticed slight decelerations in Lane's heartrate, which often happens as the baby's head is moving through the pubic bones.  She said pushing wouldn't be far off!

I was afraid I wouldn't be able to tell when I had to push, and I kept telling Josh how nervous I was about pushing.  I was afraid of the pain, of it taking hours and hours, of not knowing if I was doing it right.  Well, about 2:15 AM, I could DEFINITELY tell I was nearing pushing!  The pressure I felt was very distinct, and there was no mistaking it.  I paged Stephanie to tell her, and she came to check for progress.  I was between 9 and 10 cm dilated!  She said it would be very soon, and she started making preparations for the actual delivery.  Around 2:50, she had Josh grab one of my legs, and she grabbed the other, and she had me practice pushing.  Well after one contraction (three pushes), they could see Lane's head!  It felt so amazing to push, as it relieved the pressure I was feeling.  Josh was amazed at being able to see Lane's head, and announced he wanted to watch the whole delivery (he originally said he wanted to stay up by my head).  Stephanie continued to prepare things, and paged Dr. Gage to let her know she would be needed soon.  Whenever I felt a contraction coming, I told Stephanie, and she let me push.  In between, Josh texted his mom to let everyone know I was pushing and NOT to come into our room.

Lane's bed waiting for him.

Dr. Gage and a baby nurse arrived in our room, and took their positions at the foot of the bed.  Lane's birth was just around the corner...

38 Week Survey

Yikes... I've been slacking on these surveys!!

How far along? 38 weeks and 6 days
How big is baby? According to The Bump, 18.9 - 20.9 in. and 6.2-9.2 lbs; roughly the size of a watermelon.
Total weight gain/loss: Up 29 lbs.
Sleep: My Restless Leg Syndrome has basically gone, which is such a relief.  Although that has been replaced with major contractions nearly every night!  Poor Josh is awaken each time I try to get out of bed, as I'm grunting and groaning while trying to heave myself up.  And he applies counterpressure to my low back during my contractions.  He's a trooper.
Best moment this week: Having the doctor tell me that as soon as the little man moves down into my pelvis more, labor should progress rather quickly, as my cervix is already very soft and I'm dilated to approximately 3 cm.
Movement: Gradually slowing down.  Its very easy for me to find his body, because its so large and he doesn't have much room in my belly.  Often times, I start getting worried when I haven't felt him for a little while, so I go searching for his feet.  Once I find them and push on them, he immediately pulls them away from my hand.  And then proceeds to move around like crazy.  Neither Josh nor I enjoy having our feet touched (we both hate it, actually), so we say he's taking after us already. :)
Symptoms: Not even worth answering... I'm 9 months pregnant- I have almost EVERY symptom!!
Symptoms I DON'T have: Carpal tunnel syndrome (or any of the symptoms) and heartburn.
Food cravings: Nothing really.  I'm constantly thirsty, but so.tired.of.water.
Food aversions: Nothing that I've found.
Gender: Boy!
Labor Signs: Lots more contractions, including very strong ones that originate in my low back. 
Belly Button in or out? Still flush with the rest of my belly, with the exception of one small area right above the "pucker" of skin that is the belly button.  That part sticks out.  Its like the protrusion and the skin don't match up!
What I miss: Shopping for clothes that don't have an elastic waist, and not feeling like my skin is about to rip apart on my belly.
What I am looking forward to: Meeting our son!
Milestones: Feeling like we can finally relax and enjoy these last few days (weeks) of pregnancy.

38 Week Appointment

Today I had my 38 week appointment, and I went in with very high expectations.

I was 2.5 cm dilated last week, and I thought surely I would have made some progress past that.  Especially because throughout the night last night, but mostly from 3:00 AM until 6:30 AM, I was having pretty strong contractions again, with the main focus being in my back.  We timed these contractions, and they ranged anywhere from 6 to 14 minutes apart.  We kind of knew these probably weren't the "real deal", but still kept an eye on them at least.  At the very least, we were hoping they would either help the little man descend further, or dilate my cervix more.

Neither of those happened.

The doctor said I'm still 2.5 cm, MAYBE 3 at the most.  And still haven't effaced anymore over the last 3 weeks.  I was pretty disappointed at hearing that.  He also said that his head is still pretty high up, which I kind of knew already.

He did, however, say that all we need for me to go into real labor is for the kiddo to drop down.  My cervix is apparently very soft (umm... thanks?), and the doctor said that once the baby's head drops down further into my pelvis, labor should progress rather quickly.  He said the reason I'm not dilating anymore is because there's no pressure yet on my cervix; that's what we need to get things going.

He also told me that as soon as my contractions get to a steady 5 minutes apart, to head straight in to the hospital.  He assured me that will mean his head has dropped down, and that we will most likely not be sent home.  (Or obviously if my water breaks, we'll go right in.)  It was nice to hear that labor is just a short step away, but frustrating because he said there's basically nothing I can do to get him to move down until he's ready to. 

And of course, he was measuring just perfectly, with a heartrate of 135.  I've now gone 3 or 4 weeks without any weight gain, which the doctor reassured me is just fine.  And all of my bloodwork from last week came back normal, which is nice also.

So, here we sit.  Me, big and pregnant and uncomfortable.  Josh, impatient and jumpy and anxious.  And Lane, who apparently is rather content to enjoy his freeride for a while longer.

Let's hope for some major baby dropping in the next few days!!

37 Week Appointment

Today was my 37 week doctor appointment, and after Sunday night's contractions, I was really hoping for some progress.

The last two weeks, I've been 1 cm dilated.  When she checked today, I was 2.5 cm!  Woohoo for progress!!  She said the baby is now at a -2 station, and that that is a drop from last week (although she didn't mention what his station was last week).  He is measuring at 39 weeks, and had a perfect heartrate.  She also said she doesn't see us making it to our due date!

The bummer came when we were talking about my health, however.  She said I'm now anemic, which isn't a big deal really.  I was anemic all through high school, and just have to take an iron supplement.  The doctor did, however, notice that my legs and feet are swollen, and that I've had a headache for the last few days, coupled with protein in my urine.  All of these are red flags for pre-eclampsia.  The one symptom I'm missing, however, is high blood pressure!  Mine is still normal.  So, they sent me for a blood draw to look into it further, and I should find out tomorrow what's going on.

Josh and I are getting extremely impatient, and are so ready to meet our son.  We're going for a long walk tonight, and I'm hoping to start things moving!!

Practice Labor!

Sunday was going along like normal, with hardly any Braxton Hicks contractions.  Josh and I went and watched the Seahawks game with our friends DJ and Kristina, and then came home to hang out for the evening.  Around 7:30 - 8 PM, I started getting some pretty strong achiness in my lower back, which then radiated around to cramping in my pelvis.  These were by far the strongest contractions I had ever felt.  I just figured my body was practicing for the real thing, and that I would have a few and they would go away.

Around 9 PM, we decided to try timing the contractions, to see if where they stood regarding frequency and duration.  I could tell one was coming by the pain in my back, and then my belly would get rock-hard.  It was sometimes tough to tell when one ended though, as the back pain never went away.

They started out around 10 minutes apart, and lasted about 30-45 seconds.  They then progressed to 6-7 minutes apart, and lasted for 1 min - 1 min 30 sec.  I could still walk and talk through them, but I couldn't hold still when I had one.  I would be lying in bed, one would start, and Josh would start applying counter-pressure to my low back.  The counter-pressure felt great, but I just couldn't lie still.  So, I would jump out of bed and start pacing the house, yelling at Josh when to stop the timer.  Around 10 PM, I decided to finish up the laundry I had going in the washer, and just generally clean up our bedroom and bathroom, in case this was really it.  I also threw a few things into my half-packed hospital bag, and Josh fished out the paperwork we had gotten from the hospital regarding when to come in, which entrance to use, etc.

We decided around 11 PM to call the hospital, and ask what they recommended we do.  The nurse was wonderfully helpful, and didn't make me feel dumb for thinking I was in labor when I probably wasn't.  She told me to drink as much water as I could tolerate in the next hour, and to wait until either I couldn't walk/talk through the contractions, or they were 2-4 min. apart.  So, that's what I did.  We went to lie down, and both tried to fall asleep.  And wouldn't you know it- the contractions slowed down.  By the time I fell asleep, they were 14+ min. apart and slowing down further.

Needless to say, that was our first "practice" labor experience!

Full Term

Full term.

This is a term I've been waiting to be able to use, and a milestone I've been waiting to hit.

Just like waiting for that 13-week mark, to be "safely" in the second trimester.

Just like hitting 20-weeks, and finding out our anonymous baby is a sweet, strong boy; as well as being halfway through this pregnancy.

Just like the arrival of 24-weeks, and knowing our baby wad considered viable, if he chose to arrive then.

Just like 27-weeks, and making it into the third and final trimester.

And now, at 37-weeks, we are considered full term. 

My pregnancy book says labor is "normal and expected" from this point on.

It is so strange, and reassuring, knowing my son won't be premature, and more than likely won't have to stay in the hospital more than the standard 24-48 hours. It's comforting to know I've contained him safely in my body for the past nine months, and that we will soon be meeting him.

So, sweet son of mine, feel free to arrive now, or continue baking a little longer.  The choice is yours now!

A Letter to My Unborn Son

Dear sweet, unborn child of mine,


You have spent the last 9 months growing inside of me, developing from a mere speck to a 6+ pound kicking, hiccuping, squirming little boy.  You and I have this bond that you cannot have with anyone else; I have nourished you with my body, and you have slept right next to my heart.  Now that your due date is approaching, I know our days of being together constantly are numbered.  


In the beginning, I anxiously waited for each appointment with the doctor, wanting to make sure you were okay.  I wanted to hear your heartbeat, see you wiggling around on the ultrasound screen.  Since I couldn't yet feel your movements, I needed that reassurance.


Now, I can feel the slightest movements you make, from stretching out your strong legs, to curling your body into a ball and sticking your little round butt out.  I can even see you move, stretching my belly with each contortion to make.  I can feel you hiccup, and can tell when you're sleeping and when you're wide awake and ready to move.


Sometimes we "play" a little game, and you poke a body part out against my belly.  I push back on that part of my belly, and you pull away.  As soon as I stop pushing, you poke it back out, and we repeat this again and again.  To me, its another way we get to bond before you're actually born, and just another way you let me know everything is okay in there.


Each morning, when I've just woken up and start feeling your first movements of the day, I rub my belly, and tell you, "Good morning buddy!".  Throughout the day, I repeat this rubbing, saying, "Hi buddy!".  And each night, when I'm about to fall asleep and you're still rolling away like you always do at bedtime, I rub you a little more gently and slowly, and whisper, "Good night, buddy.  I love you.". 

Your dad loves your movements too.  Since he doesn't get to feel you constantly like I do, its always a special treat when you "perform" for him.  You'll sometimes kick his hands, or push your little rear end out against him.  You've showed off your hiccups for him, and Dad is always amazed at whatever you do.


I've had such a fun time decorating your room, and picking things out for you.  Your dad has enjoyed it too, and has contributed many, many ideas.  He wants everything to be perfect for you, and above all, for you to be safe.  We have everything ready for you, from your car seat installed, to your diaper bag packed, to your coming home outfit decided on.  Dad can't wait to see you in camo :)


So, little man, we are ready for you.  We want you to stay inside as long as you need, but we cannot wait to meet you.  We want to kiss your sweet cheeks, count all of your fingers and toes, smell that one-of-a-kind baby smell, and embrace being your parents.  You are 50% of me, and 50% of your dad, and 100% perfect already.  


We love you, Lane.

36 Week Appointment

Yesterday was my 36 week, 3 day checkup. It still seems so weird to be going every week- feels like I'm ALWAYS there!!

Little man was measuring right where he should be, and I didn't gain any weight this past week. I will say I've gained a little more than I would have liked to this pregnancy, but I'm still within the normal range. I used to always stress and whine about gaining weight, and then Josh gave me a little "talking to" and I've since changed my ways. He made me realize that as long as I was being healthy and not going to extremes, I should be enjoying this opportunity to not stress about what I'm eating, how many calories I'm consuming, etc. It is my job to make sure this baby is healthy and growing appropriately, and my vanity falls to the wayside. So now, even though I hate the weigh-in at each appointment, I no longer stress or worry. I just chalk it up to the whole pregnancy experience.

The kiddo's heartrate was a steady 140 bpm, and he's still very much head down. I'm still only 1cm dilated, but now closer to 75% effaced. She did say his head is lower this week though, which makes him closer to coming OUT!

I also had a blood draw to test for Rh antibodies, and received my RhoGAM shot again (I received it the first time at 25 weeks due to my car accident, its only good for 12-13 weeks).

This Saturday will put us at 37 weeks, which is considered full-term. I still can't believe we're about to hit this huge milestone!!!

Back to the doctor next week for another checkup. I only scheduled through September 20th, which will put me at 38 weeks, 3 days. I neglected to schedule one for past that due to my wishful thinking that he'll be here by then. :) Let's keep our fingers crossed!

35 Week Doctor Appointment

I had my weekly checkup on Wednesday (so weird to be going weekly now!), and everything looked just great!  Little man was measuring right at 36 weeks, and had a heartrate of 140 bpm.  He was squirming all over the place!  I gained a little more than I had wanted to do this 2-week period, but oh well.  My doctor said my weight gain is still right on track, so if she's not worried, why should I be?

I knew I was going to be getting my Group B strep test that day, and when the nurse asked if I wanted my cervix checked for the first time this week or next week, I opted for this week.  I figured if I had to undress anyways, why not kill two birds with one stone?

The good news is, WE HAVE PROGRESS!  Not much (which I'm thankful for, because I don't want a too-early baby!), but I am (was) 1 cm dilated and 50% effaced.  She said its "a great start".  No indication on whether he'll come before or after his due date, but that bit of news made me feel like at least we're headed in the right direction. 

I go back in on Tuesday (which seems so soon!) for another check and some blood work.  I have to have my RHOgam shot again between 36 and 37 weeks (I had it at 25 weeks due to my car accident), so that will probably be given next week as well. 

My cousin (and BFF) Jessica and her husband leave for their honeymoon September 8th, and don't return until late on the 13th.  Josh's aunt and uncle leave for a vacation on September 10th and return on the 13th also.  So the kiddo has strict instructions to NOT arrive during that window!  Also, Josh's mom leaves for a business trip on the 20th until the 23rd, so that time frame is out too. 

So baby, if you're listening, let's shoot for the 14th - 19th, or the 24th or later, okay?  Thanks!

35 Week Survey

How far along? 35 weeks and 4 days
How big is baby? According to The Bump, 17.2 - 18.7 in. and 4.2-5.8 lbs; roughly the size of a honeydew melon.
Total weight gain/loss: Up 27 lbs.
Sleep: Same as last week: "Still having the RLS, but its hitting me more during the day now. I get so stiff in the middle of the night, that it causes serious pain and takes major effort to change positions. We camped this past weekend, and slept on an air mattress that kept losing air. I had the HARDEST time rolling around on it! I've given up on sleeping in, as I get tired of lying in bed being uncomfortable."
Best moment this week: Having a HUGE baby shower with so many friends and family.  Also, Josh spent some time "hanging out" with the belly a few nights ago, and little man was being very active for him.  He talked to the kiddo, and gave him good night kisses.  Totally melted my heart.
Movement: He's constantly moving.  Sometimes when he pushes out against me, I push back with me hand, and he moves away.  As soon as I move my hand, he does it again.  Its our little bonding time.
Symptoms: Oh you know, just all the regular stuff.  With the addition of major cankles, swollen feet, and headaches.
Symptoms I DON'T have: Carpal tunnel syndrome (or any of the symptoms) and heartburn.
Food cravings: Just food
Food aversions: Nothing that I've found.
Gender: Boy!
Labor Signs: None, except for increasing Braxton Hicks contractions.
Belly Button in or out? Still flush with the rest of my belly, with the exception of one small area right above the "pucker" of skin that is the belly button.  That part sticks out.  Its like the protrusion and the skin don't match up!
What I miss: Being able to move like a normal person, and my regular clothes.
What I am looking forward to: Being one week closer to delivery!
Milestones: Installing the carseat and putting his diaper bag and the Boppy pillow in the car.

Pediatrician Meet & Greet

Today was our pediatrician meet & greet appointment. Josh saw Dr. S at this clinic from the time he was born until he was 22 years old. So when we discovered we were expecting, there was no question that Dr. S would be this little babe's pediatrician.

Until Dr. S decided to retire this month.

Which meant we had to find a new pediatrician. Luckily, there are multiple doctors in this clinic. Dr. S helped pick his replacement, Dr. H, and spoke very highly of her, as did his nurse. This nurse has been with Dr. S forever and is very familiar with Josh and his whole family.

So, we set up our appointment, and went in not knowing what to expect.

We instantly liked her.  She is young and perky, and very friendly.  She is not pushy of her opinions in the slightest.  She told us we would find a multitude of opinions between doctors, books, hospitals, etc., and that there really isn't any right answer on many topics.  We need to take all of the information we encounter, and use that to make the decisions that are right for our family.  This really struck a cord with me, and I appreciated the lack of a "my way or the highway" attitude. 

We talked about our plans thus far, such as breastfeeding, vaccinations, circumcision, etc., and she explained the schedule for her coming to see him in the hospital and our subsequent checkups in their office.

She answered all of our questions, and made us consider some things we hadn't previously.

Overall, it was a great visit, and I really look forward to working with Dr. H in the coming years.  Now we just have to wait for little man to decide he's ready to arrive!

Breasteeding Class

As a part of our childbirth class, a "Breastfeeding Your Baby" class was offered.  Since I do, in fact, plan on breastfeeding, I decided to sign up for this class in hopes of gathering some useful information.

The class was last night, and it was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G.  The teacher is a Labor & Delivery nurse, and has breastfed all three of her children for a year plus.  She was funny, open, patient, and generally put everyone at ease, even the dads that came to the class!  She even gave us her cell phone number, and encouraged us to call any time of day or night to ask questions or run any concerns we have by her.  She said she routinely gets calls in the middle of the night from new moms, with a wide variety of questions.  How's THAT for service?!  I seriously want this woman to come live with me for a few weeks after the kiddo is born.

We went over the benefits of breastfeeding and myths regarding breastfeeding.  We also talked about feeding breastmilk from a bottle, the use of pacifiers, breastmilk storage, and pumping.

Then came the hands-on part of the class.  Everyone was given a balloon, which we blew up to resemble breasts.  We then got a baby doll, and practiced latch techniques and different positions to hold the baby in.  It was nice to actually be able to physically practice this, rather than just watching.  Obviously it will be different with a real baby and a real breast, but some practice is better than none!!

I left the class feeling much more confident in my ability to breastfeed, and with all of my questions answered.  I'm so glad the hospital offered this class, and now I just have to wait for little man to arrive!

34 Week Survey

How far along? 34 weeks and 2 days
How big is baby? According to The Bump, 17.2 - 18.7 in. and 4.2-5.8 lbs; roughly the size of a honeydew melon. 
Total weight gain/loss: Up 25 lbs.
Sleep: Still having the RLS, but its hitting me more during the day now.  I get so stiff in the middle of the night, that it causes serious pain and takes major effort to change positions.  We camped this past weekend, and slept on an air mattress that kept losing air.  I had the HARDEST time rolling around on it!  I've given up on sleeping in, as I get tired of lying in bed being uncomfortable.
Best moment this week:  Realizing in just under 3 weeks, this little boy will be considered full-term!
Movement: I can feel him making total-body movements now instead of just kicks/punches.  He will occasionally stick a foot out, but mostly its him balling himself up, pushing his back or butt out.
Symptoms:  Just about everything imaginable.
Symptoms I DON'T have: Carpal tunnel syndrome (or any of the symptoms) and heartburn.
Food cravings:  Just food in general :)
Food aversions: Nothing that I've found.
Gender: Boy!
Labor Signs: None, except for increasing Braxton Hicks contractions.
Belly Button in or out? Now totally flush with the rest of my belly.
What I miss: Being able to move like a normal person, and my regular clothes.
What I am looking forward to:  Our second baby shower this coming weekend, and then going shopping for last minute items!
Milestones: Knowing our little guy would most likely do just fine if he were born today!

32 Week Survey

How far along? 32 weeks and 5 days
How big is baby? According to The Bump, 15.2-16.7 in. and 2.5-3.8 lbs; roughly the size of a squash. We are now getting to the point where his length growth is slowing down, but he's gaining approximately a half a pound a week!
Total weight gain/loss: Up 22 lbs.
Sleep: Always sleepy, but having some mild insomnia in the middle of the night.  This is due in large part I'm sure to my Restless Leg Syndrome.
Best moment this week: Our childbirth class.  It was a neat experience to have with Josh, and really put us in "baby mode"!
Movement: Still as strong as ever, but slowing down some.  I can tell he's getting cramped for space!
Symptoms: Not even worth answering...
Symptoms I DON'T have: One of the only ones I can think of is heartburn.  I've always suffered from heartburn, and I'm actually really surprised I haven't had it with this pregnancy.  I do, however, have acid reflux, but I think I'd rather have that anyday!
Food cravings: Anything.  Although my appetite has slowed down, due to lack of room.
Food aversions:  Nada!
Gender: Boy!
Labor Signs: None, and let's keep it that way for 4+ more weeks!
Belly Button in or out?  Mostly flush with the rest of my stomach, although there is one area that is starting to poke out.
What I miss: My ribs not hurting, being able to get comfortable, not wincing every time I get up to walk. What I am looking forward to: Our first baby shower this coming weekend, followed by our last vacation without the kiddo starting next Wednesday.
Milestones: Realizing our baby will be here so SOON!

The Belly Progression

Back to School

Waaaaay back in March, I started looking into childbirth classes.  I knew that one organization associated with the hospital offered them, and decided to go ahead and register for the class.  That class happened this past Saturday.

Josh moaned and groaned about having to give up an entire Saturday to sit in a class learning about all the beautiful (and gory/disgusting/gross) things that go along with labor and the birth process and subsequent recovery.  But, he knew there was no fighting me on it.

So, Saturday morning, we showed up at the hospital with our two pillows we were instructed to bring, unsure of what to expect. 

The instructor of the class was a very sweet, soft-spoken woman, who had previously been a labor and delivery nurse. You could tell right away she loves her job and all things related to birth and babies.  There were 8 other couples in the class, and it was a very relaxed atmosphere.  We started off the class with all of the dads introducing themselves and their partner, telling the group the due date and sex (if known), and what the highlights have been of the pregnancy so far.  Then, the moms were to state what the highlights have been for them, and what one of the not-so-great parts has been. 

We then moved into hormones, the labor process, how the baby moves into birth position, how he/she rotates through the pelvis to fit out, and what to expect to happen right after the baby is born.  She had models of everything, including a placenta, amniotic sac, uterus, umbilical cord, and pelvis.  Although I'm fairly familiar with how everything happens, it was neat to see how it happens "in person" (although it was much less gooey and gross than a real birth!).  It was also good for Josh to see, and to help him understand it better.  After all, you can only get so much from a book. 

We talked about contractions (both true and Braxton Hicks), how to time them, and when to head to the hospital.  Next came breathing techniques to help with the pain, and massage techniques.  We did the "He, He, Ho" and "He, He, He, Ho" you commonly see/hear about it.  The instructor then brought out cups of ice chips, and we were told we were going to do a little experiment.  We each grabbed a handful of ice, and held it for 50 seconds.  Oh.My.Gosh.  It hurt.  Fifty seconds is a LONG time to hold ice in your hand.  We then switched hands, and practiced the two breathing techniques while holding the ice.  Holy Moly!  It helped!  The ice was definitely still cold, but those 50 seconds weren't nearly as uncomfortable as the first.  One neat thing was the labor coaches were put on the spot to actually coach.  The moms were told to have a mini-freakout about halfway through the "contraction", and the dads had to help us get focused again and continue our breathing.  At first, most of us were laughing.  But then, we really started to get into it!  Josh was great at knowing what I needed, and brought me back down to a calm level where I could get back into my breathing rhythm.  [And no, I'm not stupid enough to think that holding those ice chips equates to the pain of a contraction.  Obviously everything in labor will be intensified by about a million, but this was a nice little practice step.]  The massage techniques were by far my favorite part- the instructor dimmed the lights, had us moms get comfortable, and gave the dads racquet balls, "nukkles', and other tools to try out.  So basically, we got a ten minute massage in the middle of class :)  After the massages we tried out different positions to try while laboring, including kneeling over something, the "slow dance" position, being on all fours, etc. 

Next came pushing.  We were propped up against our "labor partners", and told to bend our knees and put our hands on our knees.  The instructor would time a 60-second "contraction", and we would practice breathing in, holding it, and "pushing", while our partners counted to ten.  We would do three "pushes" per contraction.  [Obviously, we weren't actually pushing; just practicing the positioning and timing.]  I could hear Josh counting to ten behind me, and at first, I could tell he was just kind of halfway going along with it.  But then, he leaned in close, and started counting in my ear, tapping my leg or arm in time with the counting, and really put in maximal effort.  I think this was the exact moment we both had our "Holy Crap" feelings.  We had a bathroom break right after this part, and while walking the halls, we both were kind of freaked out- but in a good way.  It hit us- we're actually going to be going through this in just a few weeks.  All of this practicing is because IT IS GOING TO HAPPEN.  A BABY is going to be coming OUT and SOON! 

The rest of the class time was spent talking about what happens after the baby is born- the suctioning of his nose/mouth, cleaning him up, bonding time, etc.  We also discussed pain options during labor, and she demonstrated how an epidural is done.  Next came postpartum care (all of the guys' FAVORITE part, I'm sure).  Then, we headed down to the Labor and Delivery unit of the hospital for our tour.  We were able to see the delivery rooms (which are HUGE), how the beds break down, the birthing tubs, and then the postpartum rooms.  Josh and I have both seen the postpartum rooms several times lately, due to all of the babies born to friends and family in the last few months.

We were supposed to watch a video, but the equipment wasn't working, so we're all getting a copy sent to us in the mail. 

After the class was done, Josh decided the class was a good idea, and that it wasn't nearly as bad as he expected.  We were given handouts on the material from class, including a hospital packing list.  Which Josh has decided we need to do NOW.  Just in case. 

Doing all of this practicing makes me feel more relaxed for the actual impending birth, and also made me fall in love all over again with Josh.  He is going to be a fantastic labor coach/birth partner, and an even more incredible dad.  He has always been my strength and my rock, and proves this again and again.

Next up is my breastfeeding class at the end of August, and then we hurry up and wait for the little man to arrive.  We are 32w2d, and (hopefully) have less than 8 weeks to go!