Tuesday, December 29, 2009

December 28, 2009

Today I had my apts all over the place. ...



I had to run to get my steroid from Sparrow.


At Alliance I get there with Michelle and Aunt Frances. They take me back to a recliner and hook me up to monitors. One checks for contractions, the other checks the Logans Heartbeat. He was sleeping so what they needed had to wait until he woke up and started to move around. If they found he was too stressed the plan is to induce and get him out. If he is fine...then we continue as planned. The reason I am getting NST (Non Stress Test) done so early is because I have Lupus. Otherwise I dont think you get them until like 36 weeks or later.



Then they say he is doing just fine. Off to Ultrasound. Here she measures my cervix which is a whopping 1.49cm. haha The same as always pretty much. And then we get the measurements of the baby. Everything is measuring right where it should be. She pointed to a halo type thing around his head and said "do you see what that is"? And I got scared like thinking it was fluid in his brain. And she said that is his hair. He has a full head of hair. Woooh.



All of his parts measured right where they need too. And at this point his is approximately 4.8 pounds. And she said that he should weigh 5 pounds any day now. She asked me what we were naming him. I said Logan. And she said that was her little boys name. Apparently she wanted to name her son Jack. but her husbands last name is Daniels. So that would not work would it. haha

I then saw the doc. She made the comment that Logan is Hanging in there by a stitch literally. I thought it was pretty funny. Things were good. She hopes for a 34 week or more baby. And we then got my shot of steroids. Only one more to go tomorrow. Then that is all he can take. Eric thinks the steroids are what are making Logan so big. haha I think he just knows his momma is ready for him to be born.

December 26, 2009

Not sure why I am typing this info...but I know what we did, so I may as well continue.

Eric made plans to go to the new Michigan Brewing Company with my brother and his brother. And Stephanie and I got Chinese and watch Inglorious Bastards with Uncle Rick and Aunt Sue. It was a pretty good movie.

By the time the guys got home, they were a little tipsy. But sounded like they had a good time. I always get scared when these guys go out...They like to spend money!!!!! UGH!!!!!!

Rick and Julie came by and then the fam ended up playing board games for the night. And we ordered Main Street Pizza for dinner. I was so HOT in the living room that I had to make my way to the bedroom early. I am dying of heat these days. The bedroom is always cooler than the house. So this time I was happy.

Another funny thing about bed time. Lately I roll over and realize Eric has been wearing his jeans to bed. I say why are you doing this. He tells me so he is ready in case I go in to labor. He doesnt want to be caught in sweat pants. OMG...he says he is joking, but I think he is sort of serious. I think its cute.

December 25, 2009

Today was Christmas!!!

I wasnt sure how this day was going to go. My family rents a hall down the street from my parents place every year for this day. So Eric and I had decided to attempt to go down for dinner and then come back home.

The day before I told Eric was going to have the baby. As if I had any say. haha And so I teased him that I was going to have a baby on Christmas day. Because Eric and I can not think of one person we know that has this birthday. In any case....we all know this did not happen.

So we woke up and lounged around most of the day, playing with our presents from the day before. Mine being my Twilight game my mom got for me.

So we made our way over to the hall. It was pretty funny. Most of my family has not seen me in some time. And they all were shocked to see my big o'l baby belly. haha. I sat down, and we were able to eat a great meal. I attempted to play a game with Stephanie and Ray and Eric. But then I had enough. I was starting to get real sore. So I grabbed Eric and we said our goodbyes. It is just getting harder to sit up for long periods of time anymore. And its not worth it. Because, once I get sore, it takes a while before I feel better.

Soon Eric and I were home, I was laying down on the couch. And we watched Christmas Vacation for the 100th time this month. Poor Eric has to do nothing because of me. But I sort of think he dont mind too much. He is a mellow personality.

All in all we had a good Christmas. We are very blessed to be expecting our little baby boy. So that trumps any down day or sore day we/I have.

December 24, 2009

Today is my brothers birthday. And of course it is Christmas Eve.

We woke up and made plans to go shopping for a few last minute items I needed. So I picked up Michelle and Cierra. Or Eric did I should say. And off we went to shop a little. We ended up going to the Cafe in St. Johns for breakfast. I ate a pizza and wheat toast with Jelly. So odd I know. And everyone else ate breakfast as they should have at that time.

Then we went to Walmart. They had a wheel chair but it had a basket on it. And I said no way. Plus I was really sore at this point. So I opted to stay in the car. Eric knew what we needed anyway. So we text shopped like usual. Only this time I was in the car instead of home in bed. '

We then went to Beaners and got my fave holiday drink. Peppermint Stick Mocha. But I get a small one, because I dont want Logan to be jacked up on Sugar. hahah Then it was straight home.

When we got there Cierra shaved my legs for me. hahah It was pretty comical. At this stage in my pregnancy, I cant see past my stomach. So I needed her. Plus she gave me another one of her awesome pedicures that she gives. And I got my toes touched up after an awesome leg massage. Ahhhh I owe her big time.

Adrianna and Kameron were in the church play this year. So everyone but me and Eric and Michelle headed out over there to watch them. I guess it was really cute. Then we all had dinner. We had surprise guests for dinner this year, that being Tino, Amber and Marcus. It was fun and good. And the boys went through about 5 of my fave bottles of wine. None for momma. haha

And it was a night of watching Christmas movies and opening gifts. I received my Paula Deen cutting board. It is so cool. My Dad thought they were kidding when they said I wanted that. But it was the greatest gift ever!!! Well the pots and pans would have been good too. hahah Eric got a Spartan pullover and international beer sampler from my sister. All in all it was good.

December 23, 2009

So today I had an apt with Dr. Horton. It was such a waste of time. I went there she asked me if I had questions....uh none. We went over blood work, weighed in, took Blood pressure. Thats it. As if I had the ability to just drive over there for the heck of it. But thats how that day went down. ...nothing to report.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

31 weeks....

Today is 31 weeks. We have 9 weeks left on our ticker. I cant believe we are finally in our single digits of the countdown.

I have nothing significant to post at this point. But I do want to say that last night while we were laying in bed I made Eric stare at my stomach. I said "watch, you can see him move". And when I tell him this, Logan instantly stops moving.....most of the time. But last night, Eric saw him move. It really really looks like an alien in your stomach. He thought it was pretty cool. He has been extremely active in the last 24 hours. Everything I read tells me his movement should be less drastic now because he has little room in there. Yet my kid is doing gymnastics....go figure.

Thats the funny thing I keep forgetting to post. A lot of times Logan hides from Eric. I will tell him to touch me to get him to calm down now. hahah

Monday, December 21, 2009

Parenting tips for Eric and I.



































































Over the past few days....

Over the past few days, I have had ups and downs. Not emotionally...pregnancy wise. After my apt on Wednesday I felt perfectly fine. So the plan was to go shopping on Saturday morning. I figured Eric could put me in a wheel chair and we could zip through a couple stores and then head home.

So Saturday came and we went to Walmart. I got in my wheel chair and off Michelle Eric and I went. The store was packed. And I kept getting irritated with Eric and he would wheel us in to the main isle and just stop. I felt like a damn truck backing up in the middle of a busy intersection. However, we made it. I even picked up a few items for the baby to have for when he comes home. Just essentials like sheets and pjs, and bathing supplies. After going to the Baby Mecca, that being Babies R Us, Walmart doesnt have crap.

So all in all I felt pretty fine. By the time we were done I knew my afternoon was about up. But we had to run to Home Depot to pay a bill. And then we made plans to go to Little Caesars for lunch. So we got in to Little Caesars in Corunna/Owosso and of course I had to pee right away. So then I made my way to the booth. We ordered salad/pizza and bread sticks. Well since the day before yesterday I had a pain in my right side. Only it was hardly note worthy. So I just let it go. Well while we waited for the pizza, it progressed to my entire stomach. And I was convinced I was going in to labor. At Little Caesars of all places. Michelle and Eric got me emotional. And of course I started crying like a baby. haha So it was decided that we were to pay the bill ASAP and head out to home or hospital. So Eric went and got the car. While Michelle and I tried to make our way out the door. When I could finally stand up the pain just took over big time. And I could barely walk out. Of course people stared as I grabbed a booth. haha And I doubled over in pain at the door. And I by the time I finally stumbled my butt to the car I told Eric I didnt have time to make it to Lansing, that he had to take me to Owosso hospital.

Him and Michelle thought I was nuts to want to have my baby there. But it wasnt what I wanted...the pain was so bad I didnt think I could make the trip to Lansing. But the wave slowed and I told him to make his way to Lansing. By the time we got there the pains progressively lessened. And I was on my way to feeling much better of course.

After being monitored, I was released. They of course told me because of my situation that I made the right decision to get it checked out. That I can not play around with my stitch and all that. So of course we left. Stopped at Beaners for a Peppermint Stick Mocha latte. I get a small because of the caffeine. And of course Eric got his Carmel marvel.

By the time we got home I was feeling those fake contractions again, only this time they were more manageable. And of course throughout our day I had hardly drank any water. This is a no no where I am concerned. That alone can cause me to have contractions. And I am notorious for not drinking enough water. Not that I dont want to, it just is never enough. I am always dehydrated. And the rest of my night was uncomfortable.

By morning things were much much better. So Sunday was spent just chilling out. We wrapped gifts. Oh wait, Michelle wrapped all of our gifts, while Eric and I watched and critiqued her. haha Then we watched some Christmas shows and went to bed.

Today I have to go in and get my blood drawn. Other than that....its work and lay in bed. Thats what I do best.

Baby is kicking up a storm. And the docs tell me he looks really happy in there. I hope so!

Tomorrow is 31 weeks and counting......

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

He's Getting Bigger

So today was another growth ultrasound. I convinced my Dad to go in. I dont think he wanted to at first. But I think he was okay with it after. He has a hard time making out the pictures. So when I told him they display it on a flat screen tv and he could see him moving, he had a change of heart.

Logan is measuring right where he should be. He looks perfect. He now weighs approximately 3 pounds 6oz. Not bad!!! According to all of my baby sites and books, he is measuring right where he should be. So that is a huge relief.

Eric and I then waited to talk to the doc. We went over all of my charts/results whatever. And everything was looking good. They are going to take me off of one of my meds because it is raising my liver enzymes. Whatever that means. haha But it is okay if I go off it. And I will now be seeing the doc every week two times a week until he is born. This will start on week 32 actually. I will be getting what is called a Non Stress Test. Basically they will monitor his for over 20 minutes. And I will get an ultrasound. And if they show he is in any sort of distress they will induce labor. If he is as happy as he has been, then they will leave him alone to cook a little longer.

Of course we talked about the fact that she can not believe we made it this far. Which I dont mind me and Eric saying. But it doesnt sound good hearing it from a doctor. But she is super Debbie Downer. But she said she was really hopeful that we could get to 34 weeks. She says that will make her feel like this is no problem at all. So lets hope.....thats our next goal.

My cervix measured at 1.9cm. Which is good (for me at least). And like I said the baby is perfect. And today the ultrasound was so clear we totally could see what his face looked like. We could make out his nose completely. Too which Eric said he looks like him. haha And he looks so cute. And they took a snap shot of his foot. And I said I was pretty familiar with his feet. As he beats me up daily. haha

So now I am laying down as I should be. And I am shopping online to finish up my Christmas shopping. So as of now, that is all. oh and I have to get some more water in me. Apparently I am ALWAYS dehydrated. I swear I feel like I can float away. But I guess it is not enough.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Baby Registry

Today is Erics 33rd Birthday. And today we are 30 weeks in to our pregnancy. Pretty exciting if you ask me.



Mom woke us up to a birthday breakfast for Eric. And she made him a fresh pot of coffee in her new coffee maker. I had already bought a brew making kit for Eric a couple weeks ago. That was to be his birthday gift from me. In fact today is the day he is making his first batch, which I believe he dubbed the "Birthday Brew". Who knows.



Anyway, we decided that since I am in my 30s now, that today would be a good day to go and finally register for baby stuff at babies r us. I have not been able to do any baby shopping this entire pregnancy. So I am so ready. Plus we figured if I went in to labor, well I would be in Lansing by the hospital already. So who cares. hahah

So we got there and then I had to be put in a wheel chair of course. And this thing was so granny as it had a basket attached. Thats not embarrassing at all. haha Then we made our way to the registry desk. The lady got us all in the system and handed Eric the gun. She gave her quick tutorial, handed me a list of what to register for, and we on our way. Well she told us to stop at the furniture first and then make our way to the front. I asked her if it was tacky to register for a crib. She said no, everyone does. So off we went.

Eric and I have had our eye on this one "baby italia" crib that we wanted so bad. Well we came across this one The Heritage Lifetime Crib in Oak Chestnut instead....OMG....we have to have this one. I will die for it. hahah

Tell me that is not beautiful Crib ever. So that was our first item on our registry. I think it is well worth the money because it converts to a full size bed that he can have all through high school. Its so beautiful. So then we were looking at the bedding that they had set up in this crib and we both loved it. But I said we need to keep an open mind and go look at everything. You see this bedding was animal print. Most of you know, I was so anti-animal print. I wanted him to have a room that he could grow in to. And I didnt want to have to worry about taking down baby looking things to give him an older room. But we couldnt resist. In the end the animals won. I kept thinking I wanted trendy prints only. But Eric had to let me know that it was okay to go for the feeling of baby. So we chose this cute safari type print. It is Dark Brown with Green. It looks so cute. It has monkeys, lions, girraffs. Things like that. I cant wait to put it all together. I already have an idea for the paint and deco of the room. So we are in business.

All in all it took us about 2 hours and one pee break to register. Not so bad considering Eric and I have the worlds worst bladders. The whole time Eric would register for something he would just marvel in disbelief that this was for "our baby", and that we would really need this stuff. It was fun. We even got to park in the spots designated for those that are pregnant. Eric was irritated that this one lady used one of those spots and she clearly was not having a baby. haha Oh well. And we used up every inch of the scanner. The very last item we were registering for beeped and said we were now at our limit. We did pretty good. Especially since when she told us to register for at least 200 items, we thought she was insane. But of course Eric knew that an 8bit gun would only hold 256 characters. Who knows this stuff? haha

We only ended up skipping 3 categories they told us to hit. One was the Glider/furniture area. I decided to go with one from my Target registry. These were more affordable. The ones at Babies R us are like $500.00, even I wouldnt pay for that. They are worth it I am sure. But that is too much. And I knew I could find a cheap/affordable one at Target. Then we skipped the battery section....odd, but it is on the list. And last we skipped the exerciser area. The one we chose at Target is way better than ones they had at Babies R Us.

So with that we were done, but we were hungry. So we headed over to Arts Pizza. However, it was no longer Arts Pizza. We had not been there in years, but we loved their subs. We got in ordered subs and salad. It was super good. So even though it wasnt Arts, we were still satisfied.

Now as I type this, Eric is whipping up his Birthday Brew. And I am laying down where I should be. And the baby is kicking up a storm. Maybe he wants attention. So I am going to sing off for now, and rub my buddha belly.

Happy Birthday to one of the loves of my life.

Ciao

Monday, December 14, 2009

Week 29

On Monday December 7, 2009 I received a phone call from Alliance. The nurse said that I passed my 3 hour Glucose test with flying colors. She said I didnt even come close to failing. And she said that goes for the very first draw and on. So yeah!!! I told her my game plan was to overload on sugar until they called me. She thought I was joking, but I wasnt. haha

Tuesday December 8, 2009

I am 29 weeks pregnant. You dont have any idea how great this makes me feel. Eric and I just say it almost every day I swear, that we can not believe we made it this far. In fact its unbelievable to think how close we are to the 30's. I mean who would have thought. Every day that goes by lifts another cloud. You just feel a little more secure and a little better. I know that even full term babies have issues. But the fact that we can remove one more reason for concern, is just amazing.

December 9, 2009.

Had my apt with Dr. Halvorson. She is so awesome. Eric and I pretty much love all of them at Alliance. She was pretty cool though. The night before I had a hard time going to sleep due to some contractions. Eric timed them and they were too sporadic for me to think they were true labor. So I finally was ble to sleep. I woke up at about 3:30am as I normally do, and I still had a little pain. So I got up to take a shower in the morning and I could barely stand. I had the pelvic pressure and I just had to get to a place to sit down. So I got ready for my 8:20am apt. My parents drove me and Eric met us there.

When I told Dr. Halvorson about my night and morning, she was concerned. So we had an unscheduled pelvic exam. She saw my stitch was in place. And she said my cervix was closed. All good things. And we laughed about how many times I had to have a an exam. And she said she would see what she could do about getting me to have a permanent clamp in place. They laughed so hard. And I told her I was going to request that I never see her again. All in all we joked a lot. She talked to me about doing another FFN test. And I told her why bother. It came back positive once. I am here 2 weeks later, I have not had my baby. The only thing that test caused me was worry. It doesnt change my course of treatment, so no need for it. She agreed totally. Then her and Eric pretty much conspired to get me hooked up to a contraction monitor. This morning we had the first snow/ice storm of the season. And she said she didnt want to send me home, only to have me go in to labor and risk driving in the storm they anticipated for that night. So we got ready and headed over to Sparrow OB triage.

They hooked me up. And of course my contractions were tiny little blips, nothing really. And the baby was super fine and doing great. So after a couple hours they released me. All was good for another day.

After being monitored, it can provide you with a little sense of relief. However what scared me was that the pain I felt was pretty intense, yet it was not a true contraction.....what is a real one going to feel like. OMG!!! haha

December 12, 2009.

Today Angel graduated from Northwood with her MBA. So the fam took off to Midland to help Angel celebrate her big achievement. I would have been there for sure, but you know how it goes. I was alone most of the day as Eric was at the house working. I received some phone calls from people who had tried to come over and saw the door was locked and cars were gone. So then they called my cell thinking I was in labor. When I told Eric that, he couldnt stop laughing. He said so why did they call you if you were in labor. haha I never thought about that.

Marc stopped by to say hi. He had spent the day with Eric helping out. Then he had to go and meet up with Sarah and her parents for dinner. Apparently she had gone dress shopping that day. That part is so much fun. I remember how much fun I had looking for wedding stuff. Its all so exciting.

Rick came over and had dinner with Eric and I. And Julie stopped by later after she got home from shopping with Stefanie. So I laid on the couch and we all chatted a while.

December 13, 2009

Today Uncle Kevin came over to put the final touches on the bathroom. All along Eric has been taking pictures and showing me. My Aunt Sue came over and picked me up. We went over to my house to start ditching boxes of crap to make room for Logan.

The bathroom is so so pretty. I love it. It looks more amazing than I imagined. We didnt do so bad. I would send Eric to the store to pick out things, he would text me the pics and we would choose that way. And it all turned out so nice. I ended up throwing out tons of clothes that we no longer need. And Sue ended up leaving with a brand new work wardrobe. So it was all good. It was so weird to be sitting in the house we have not been in for months. And there were cobwebs everywhere. UGH....but it will get done before our little guy comes home. No worries.

Oh and I have a bassinet for Logan. I went back and forth on what to spend on him for this item. And I let logic take over my desires. I got a very inexpensive bassinet. And it is so not my style. But all I kept thinking was, they are only in them for 3 months max. So why spend a fortune. I want to put my money in to the crib. So I think I made the right choice. And now he has a place to sleep. And of course he has the car seat, and clothes, and diapers. We are going to register at Babies R Us this week. And we plan to pick up some bottles for him to come home. Everything else can happen in due time.

Today was Kamerons birthday. They had an ice cream social at my brothers house. They brought us over some sundaes. It was super nice. And Kameron and Little Louie got us spoons so we could dig in. Kameron said he had a great time. And they seemed pretty excited. So all was good.

Its funny because we know so many people with December birthdays. Its like a landmine on a calendar. I keep thinking could this be the day? And tomorrow is Erics 33rd birthday. At one time he didnt want to share a birthday with the baby. But now we can hear that tomorrow I will be 30 weeks, he is okay if it happens. In fact his last exam(math) is today. He tells me that I can not go in to labor until after noon. Then he is free to come. He has been stressing big time about the timing of this all. and he just wanted to make it past exam week. It is 11:14am, and I think it is safe to say, all is good for now.

I believe this makes me all caught up. I will try to do a better job from here on out. Eric took pictures of my fat belly last night. But I just look fat. In the pictures you really can not tell how round the belly is. And I am not going to lift up my shirt. So maybe another day, and another outfit. We will try. I just hate taking pictures when I look like crap from laying down all day. Bed rest is not as glamorous as it sounds. I am no sleeping beauty.

At this point...

December 1, 2009

At this point I am 28 weeks. This is suppose to be the part where we really wanted to reach. We have been told many times how we need to try real hard to make it to this point. Not that you would be in the clear, but it sure helps! So today is a victory again!

December 2, 2009.

Today is my future sisters in law birthday. Not sure how old she is, but I am guessing 30? Who knows, but Happy Birthday Sarah.

Friday December 4, 2009

I had Aunt Frances take me to Alliance to get my 3 hour test done. When I got there I had to get my blood drawn immediately. Then I had to drink that dreadful juice again. Then I had to get my blood drawn 1 hour later. Then 1 hour after that, then 1 hour after that. And by the time you are done, if you fail, then you have gestational diabetes.

I thought oh great, I have it. I was shaky just like the last time. But the nurse said, not really, that means your body is trying to fight it off.

During the wait Aunt Frances and I worked on crafts. She was working on Dannys scarf he asked for about 3 years ago. And I was working on Logans blanket. I had changed colors in the blanket. So essentially starting over. YEAH! haha

There were other women there getting the same test done. All of us hated being there. But we had to do it.

After my apt we went and got Subway, as I was starving. Then we wait!

December 5, 2009.

When we got up, Eric headed over to the house with Uncle Kevin. And Me, and Michelle and mom and Phil made our way to the front room to attack the tree. My parents have a fake tree. They always have....mainly because my brother was allergic. So I laid on the couch and Michelle and Phil would hand me branches and I would spread them out. I do such a good job if I shall say so myself. And we had Christmas music blaring. This is/was my most fave time of year. So it was nice to be able to do things even though my movement is limited.

Speaking of limited, when did this baby pop out. I just feel like I looked down and boom there he was. My stomach is starting to get hard and round. And well, Eric said I waddle. But I swear its because I hurt when I move. So I am walking around like an old lady. Today was no exception. By the mid day, I was convinced we were going to have a baby that day or the next. Things have shifted in my body. And things are changing. I felt a lot of pelvic pressure, and I just could not get comfortable. And of course my mom was all about having me have Logan on her birthday. But Eric and I had to tell her that just because we reached 28 weeks doesnt mean we want him at 28 weeks. haha

December 6, 2009

Today Eric and and his mom painted our bathroom. I love the color I picked. It is going to look so good.

Its Moms Birthday!!!! So we planned to make dinner (dad), and have some family members over to help celebrate. Me and Michelle got her a movie gift basket. She loves to go to the movies. And Dad got her a coffee maker. She has been talking to Eric about how much she wants coffee again. And we had a nice laid back day. Mom is now 51! YOWZA. hahah



December 6, 2009. Okay so the day before I felt like I was going to have this baby.

Trying to catch up....

So I am trying to catch up my blog. I am almost there.....

November 20th.

This was a big day, New Moon came out in theaters. As everyone knows, I love the Twilight trilogy. In fact Logan was inches away from being named Cullen. Cullen is the last name of the vampire clan in this story. And well I think it is cute. But Eric hates anything to do with Twilight. I think he is just jealous of my love for Edward. haha And I wanted to watch the movie so bad, but I had to pass due to bed rest. We planned this day for months. Instead I ended up watching on Sunday online.

November 24, 2009

This morning my dad took me to Clinton Memorial Hospital to take my 1-hour Glucose tolerance test to see if I have gotten gestational diabetes. You have to drink this fruit punch mixture that has about 100g of sugar in it. Then they draw your blood an hour later to see how you body has responded to the sugar. I was shaking like I was on drugs. And Logan was a little hyper as well. He would not settle down. It was kind of funny. So I thought for sure I failed it.

That night was our annual baking tradition that I proudly started years ago at Grandmas. So Eric took me over to grandmas and I lounged on the couch. Everyone brought me their freshly baked treats and cold milk. I wont tell you what I called Uncle Jesse as he brought me 2 day old milk. Everyone thought it was funny....but it just came out. Although I couldnt bake this year, I had a good time. And several of our usuals did not make it, but we still had a good time.

November 25, 2009

I had an apt with Dr. Flemming the day before Thanksgiving. I am now on rotation with the docs at alliance. The thought is that I meet all of the docs, so I at least am familiar with someone that might deliver my baby. Makes sense. So I get there and I am told that I failed my 1 hour test. UGH!!!! I said to I have diabetes. She said, not necessarily. Apparently the highest they like your sugar is 135...mine was like 142 or something like that. So that now means I have to have a 3 hour glucose test done. I was then given a diet....well a buffet of carbs to eat for 3 days. Then on the 4th day I had to do a 4 hour draw. YEAH!!!! Anyway, I got my pelvic exam and they took a swab to do the FFN test for labor. And then I did the ultrasound to check my cervical length. All the usuals.

November 26, 2009.

We had Thanksgiving at mom and dads. That morning I tried to stay in bed as long as possible. The night before I was making myself a little comfortable and getting up when I wanted to. So it left me a little sore and crampy.

We had a great dinner as always. We all pick what we want and it is made. This year we had Julian as our new addition. He was so cute with all the food all over his face. He is so goofy. Phil said the prayer. He had personally requested that he do that this year. It was sweet. After dinner I went back to lay down for a little while. Then Aunt Frances called to see what we were doing. And of course I said my usual...."laying down". haha Well they were all wanting to come over and visit. So I made my way eventually over to the recliner in the living room.

Uncle Danny, Aunt Frances, Jerry, Monica, Selina, Owen, Danny and Sean all came over. That was cool. I thought it was odd that they came in with presents. It didnt really click with me. But hey... I lay down all the time. haha So they all brought me a gift. They said that they couldnt wait for me to have a baby shower and wanted to give this to me now. I was so surprised. I opened it up and wanted to die. It was a Cricut. A Cricut is a personal die cut machine that I have obsessed over for I dont know how long. And for a scrapbooker, it is basically a BMW. Get my drift? And I never thought I would get one. They said it was to start my scrapping for Logan. I just thought it was so incredible and above and beyond anything I would ever expect from anyone. Such a great family I have. And then they gave Eric a gift. He opens it up and it was a baseball/Tball set for Logan. I thought it was so super cute. I bet Eric cant wait to pass down his baseball skills to our baby. They are so thoughtful. And of course the amazing car Monica made with Logans name....was killer. That will go in Logans baby book for sure. So we sat and chatted a while.

Then Erics parents came over with lots of sweet treats to share. And of course everyone app recited that for sure! They had spent the day at a charity event for Thanksgiving. Which is so nice! So at least we were able to meet up with them at night. And Erics mom felt Logan kick for the first time. He was starting to get pretty active just before they left. So I am sure she loved that.

And then Rick and Julie came over. We ended up watching a funny movie. I think it was called "Nothing Like the Holidays". Which made us laugh because it reminded us of our family and new comers. It was a lating family celebrating and the one brother has a white wife. And she was just so scared of them all. haha My fave part is when they are all talking around the dinner table, and she says to her husband, "why are they yelling" And he just laughs and says they arent, they are just talking. haha It reminds me of when Eric and I were first together. He couldnt understand why we were all yelling either. Now he is louder than all of us. haha.

We made our way to our room. I was a little down because my thing is the day after thanksgiving shopping. Its insane and useless, but it is tradition and fun. And this year it was a no go. But I woke up at 3 and sent Rick out with some to buy list. So I ended up getting a few DVDs anyway. Its as close as I was going to get.

November 27, 2009.

So today was in and out for everyone at Mom and Dads house as usual. People came in with their shopping lists of what they got. And we hung out and ate. I worked on Logans blanket again!!!! And by night time it was me, Tino, Jesse, and Michelle. My doc office called and said that my FFN test came back positive. It then meant that I had a 15% chance to go in to labor. I had gotten everyone in the rooms attention at this time and by the time I got off the phone I was upset. Just their stares made me upset. So I started crying. I was knew prior to this that it didnt mean I was going in to labor, it just gave a small chance. And Tino said Estrella you need to settle down or you are going to go in to labor. And Jesse being the guy he is cant stand it when people cry, had to excuse himself to the other room. I finally got a grip and settled down. I called Eric, he was at our house working on the bathroom. He knew I was upset. And he told me to just relax and settle down. By the time he came home I was getting better.

Cierra had come over and massaged my legs with lotion. And she gave me a pedicure. It was so nice and helped me relax. But then I started crying again. I was a hormonal mess. haha But finally got my stuff together. Eric made me and Jodi and Jesse some spaghetti. It was super good. Then I went and layed down. I told Eric I was more upset because we were not ready for hte baby to come. I didnt have a bed for him. I didnt have anything for him. And yet here we are thinking that at any time he is here. UGH. But I just tried to relax and went to bed.

November 28, 2009.

Today I woke up with a need to get things around. We washed all of Logans clothes. They are so cute and so little. I wanted everything ready for him. So it starts, we have to prepare for the little guy.

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

This and that

So on November 17th, we sent Angel a birthday gift. I signed it from Eric Estrella and Logan. The message I got back from her was hysterical. She said she had used the gift card to buy several items, one of which was the DVD To Wong Fu. And she said that maybe some day her and Logan can sit down and watch it together. If you saw this DVD you would know why I think it is super funny.

This week, Eric and my Uncle Kevin started construction on our bathroom. HOLY CRAP they literally tore everything down. Cant wait to see the finished product. Should be soon.

November 18, 2009.

I had to go to Sparrow to pick up my injection meds for my 2nd round of steroids. Dad took me to this apt. And everything went pretty smooth.

So far I have gained I think 2 pounds. Yet I feel like a beached whale. SHUT UP. haha

November 19, 2009.

Received my 2nd injection this week. Everything is all good. I had Aunt Frances take me to this apt. She had Owen with her this time. He is such a cutie. We were playing with a puzzle in the lobby. And there was a pizza on the puzzle. And he called it Puzza. It was so cute. haha

So pretty uneventful week.

Working from Home

So at this point I am fully working from home. I thought I could get tons done. But really it is tiring. So I work about 25-30 hours per week. Its not too bad. But you are really limited when you are in bed as you can imagine.

November 10, 2009.

I had my apt with Dr. Beals(Lupus doc). Aunt Jamie took me to this apt. Good lord I had to wait forever to see her. She is so busy, and so popular, u just have to deal with it. When she came in it was so nice to see her. Usually I see Amanda, her assistant. But Amanda has since moved to Colorado with her boyfriend. She is the greatest and her and I still keep in touch. In fact before she knew Logan was a boy, she kept telling me to name it Amanda. haha Anyway...my apt went well. As far as Lupus goes, my symptoms have really been non existent. She said that some people that happens to for no reason really.

We talked about breast feeding. I have been back and forth on what to do. I really dont want to do it. But I feel like I am depriving my child of what is important. She said it would be better if I did not breastfeed. That I will more than likely have a flair up within the first 2 weeks of giving birth. If I have one at all. And that she will not be able to treat me if I am breastfeeding. And what good will I be to my baby if I am sick or dead? So that made my mind up. And I am going to stick with formula. She said we can wing it. Or I could pump until I am well. But I just assume stick to one over the other and not confuse him.

She was then mad that nobody told her I was on bed rest. She said that she will come to see me at my house for my next apt. She will draw my blood and everything here. That she does not want me out of bed at all. She is the sweetest lady ever. And we have a pretty good friendship. She said I am her favorite patient and she will do anything for me. I thought that was so great. So in December she will be making a house call. hahah


November 13, 2009.

I had an ultrasound with Dr. Kelleys office. And we took my mom. Eric and I laugh because I went in with Eric to get my exam and we left my mom in the lobby. And by the time we were done, she had made friends with some lady. Her daughter was there to be seen to check on her PreEclampsia diagnosis.

They tested us with our first FFN test. Which later would come back negative. Woooh. And when we were in the lobby waiting for me to check out. The lady that my mom had befriended comes over and says to my mom...."oooh I see pictures, I just have to see what he looks like". So then of course mom gives this lady our pictures of Logan. Eric and I gave each other a look like "Who in the hell is this woman?" But she was super nice. And mom and her were just two concerned moms there with their daughters. It was funny.

November 15, 2009.

Nothing to report on my end. But my nephew Julian started walking today. He is so cute!!!! My sister and Dad caught him on video. And its only a matter of time before he is out of control.

24 weeks

This was to be the day where we felt a little bit better about Logans chances. I have to tell you, that yes we felt okay...but not at all better. We knew the chances were slim, but that maybe he could be helped. 28 weeks seemed like an eternity away. But I felt good overall.

Keep in mind that up to this point and even after I made my way to OB triage on average, about ever 4 days. My anxiety along with EXTREME bowel/gas pain made me question if I was going to be able to hold out. It would be this thing where in the morning I would wake up refreshed and feeling great. And by the end of the night....not so much. So off we would go to the Triage at Sparrow. Eric has and always is so good about it. He says to me all the time that he wishes he could take away my pain. And I know he means it. But as long as the baby is fine, I can handle the pain. Its when I dont know what is going on, I just panic. Its been a very stressful journey. But I do not regret it for one minute. I feel like this was just meant for me. And I feel like Logan was meant for me. So we were going to fight until he comes.

So with that being said...My steroid injection number one was scheduled for November 5, 2009. My Aunt Sokie took me to Sparrow Triage. They had to administer the first injection. So I got there and they took me back. I met this nurse named Anne. She was so awesome. We had to get the baby on monitor and listen to him for like 20 minutes to make sure he was okay before the injection. And they had me on a contraction monitor. I had some SUPER pains that day, which we find out were due to my gas/bowel issues. Laying in bed day after day apparently is not excellent for this issue. Walking about is what makes you feel good. And since I can not do that, GasX has been my friend. Anyway, Anne just returned from maternity leave herself. She had a daughter named Bella. She named her after the wine her and her husband drank on their first date. In fact they kept the label. I thought it was a great story. Anyway, she talked to me forever about labor, and my fears and all that. And I got some great pointers. I hope she is there when we have Logan. She was really comforting.

So the baby and I were fine. So my left butt cheek received my first injection. No pain at all. However, by the end of the day, I noticed that I had HOT FLASHES. Holy crap they just came in waves. But that was all. I have friends that had rashes, and got sick. So I am glad it was just hot flashes.

November 6, 2009

I had to come to Alliance for my 2nd injection. My Aunt Frances drove, and my Dad rode in the back. He wanted to get Burger King for lunch. hahah

They brought me to the back office to listen to the baby like the day before. And then the nurse that took me back there looked like she was 15 maybe at best. I said oh my God, are you old enough to work here? And she laughed and told me she had worked there for 2 years now. WHAT??? I dont remember this. Anyway, the right cheek got the injection this time. And I had overheard her talking to the nurse in the hallway about having the H1N1 vaccine. I said hey do you have that? And she said yeah they just came in. She said they only had 50 of them. And that they could only give them to whoever asked for them until they ran out. That they could not call people and tell them and they could not reserve them. So I asked her if I could get one, and of course she said yeah. So I got that in the arm. I didnt feel a thing. And I didnt have any side effects.

So I had them drop me off at Key West to pick up lunch. And then Aunt Frances and Dad zipped next door to Burger King. After that we went to Monicas because Aunt Frances had to drop something off. When we got there, Monica was frosting the smurf cake that she was making for Selinas Birthday party that night. And Owen said my name. How cool is that.

October 23, 2009

I had my first follow up apt with Dr. Kelley since my cerclage. Prior to this I barely wanted to go back to her. In my mind, she made too many mistakes for me to feel comfortable going to her. But, on the other hand, she did so many right things. And I had addressed my feelings about Dr. Kelley to Dr. Roth. I told him I was worried about her delivering my baby. He said to me, "Estrella, any monkey can deliver a baby. Its how we keep the baby inside the mom is what matters". So I knew it would be okay as he was on my side.

With every suggestion Dr. Kelley gives me, I run it by Dr. Roth first. If he agrees, I am game. So I went to my apt with Dr. Kelley. My Aunt Frances took me. And when she came in, I didnt attack her. I didnt accuse her. I just listened to her recap over what she had learned about my case. And she asked me if I had any questions. I told her that I knew it was a waiting game. And that at this point I am just fine. We talked about my birthing plan I had come up with at Dr. Roths office. And we talked about the steroids for the baby. At this point I was 22 weeks. She mentioned starting steroids at 26 weeks. To which I told her no, I am getting them at 24 weeks and that if she wouldnt do it then I would have him do it. In my mind she is no longer in control of how I am getting treatment. And if he tells me one thing...that is how it is going to be. And you all know me....thats whats going to happen. haha So she said okay that was fine with her as long as it was fine with him.

October 24, 2009.

Eric felt Logan kick for the first time. We had just woken up. And of course I have been feeling him on a constant basis since about 18/19 weeks. And so I layed Erics hand on my belly. And he started dozing off. But then Logan kicked him and it woke him up. haha It was so cool. I felt bad that I get to feel everything and he dont know what its like. So it was nice for him to feel him.

At this stage Logan seriously has a pattern. He is up every morning at about 7:30am - 8amish. Then of course with lunch. And about 4pm. And then about 8pmish. And about 11pmish. And of course 3am YEAH my favorite. haha