2008.

2008 was an amazing year for me. On March 2nd, I started Lupron for my very 1st IVF cycle. A month and a half later, on my birthday, we found out that we were finally pregnant! April through July were spent throwing up...literally! I was sick 24/7. There were even times when I thought pregnancy was a bad idea, but I never took my eye off the prize. I knew that I was holding my baby boy in my belly and that he needed me to be strong. Eventually the sickness subsided...and on came the contractions!

I began having contractions in August. I was in and out of L&D...thankfully no baby yet. On October 19th, my water broke while in NY for my baby showers. I was admitted to L&D for the duration on October 24th.

October 29, 2008 was by far the best day of my entire life. That was the day my precious son was born. At 8:46am, Carter John Butchino made his entrance into the world weighing 3 pounds, 14 ounces. Although he wasn't due for another 7 weeks, he was perfect and healthy and I couldn't have been more proud! 2 weeks later, he was released from the hospital and we have been the happiest family ever since! I love my boys more each day.

2008 had its ups and downs, but when all is said and done, it was the best year of my life. I finally have the family I have always dreamed of and I have never been happier. I just can't wait to see what 2009 brings our way!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Another Dr visit...

Carter went to the pedi today. Last night, we noticed that his belly button looked funny...it was sticking out. It went away and then came back again this morning. I called the office and they told me to bring him in.

Due to the fact that he has been straining with all the gas he's had and that he doesn't poop very regularly, he has an umbilical hernia. It is common in preemies because their abdominal muscles do not develop the same way as a full term baby. Basically, as the doctor put it, its his "guts" pushing through into his belly button. Yum! Anyway, in most cases it clears itself up by age 2 and will not need surgery. Most importantly, it does not hurt him at all.

On a lighter note, my big boy weighs 8 pounds, 1 ounce! We must be doing something right!! Please pray that he keeps gaining and that his hernia clears up quickly. Prayer always helps!

Carter has a best friend already...his Soothe and Glow Seahorse. There are many times when he will not fall asleep without it. We also use it to stop him from crying when he gets upset. At one point, the seahorse was bigger than Carter, yet he insisted that it be where he could cuddle up to it before falling asleep. Before napping the other day, my poor baby was having trouble sleeping because he had very bad gas. The doctors told me all I could do was try my best to soothe him and get him relaxed. So I did the one thing I knew would help...and Carter and his seahorse slept soundly in the swing. They even decided to cuddle.

An amazing holiday.

My Santa Baby.

Our 1st family Christmas photo.

Best buddies.

Hello! I hope you all had a wonderful holiday. We certainly did! Christmas eve was Carter's 1st night in his crib...I was a basketcase and got no sleep. I even heard Santa putting gifts under the tree! Christmas morning was spent at home with our new baby boy. We bought Carter the Ocean Wonders mobile with remote. No more getting out of bed to rewind his mobile! We are also starting a savings account for him. My mom went completely overboard on Carter...and on us!! I got a ton of clothes and make-up (much needed) and Steven got a bluetooth (finally joining the millenium) and a new ladder, among other things. She is also redecorating our bedroom for us as a gift! We spent so much time and money on the nursery that we never even painted our room. It will be so nice to have somewhere cozy to go to bed! Steven also got me my mother's ring. It is an Opal which is Carter's birthstone, surrounded by Diamonds and Tanzanite (my 2 favorite gems!) What a sweet hubby!

We decided to go to NY on Christmas and surprise our families. After an amazing dinner (thanks mom!), we took off. We spent that night at Steven's mom's house and then went to my dad's on Friday. He got us all football jerseys, Carter included. Steven got a Steelers jersey and Carter and I got matching Brady Quinns! My dad is also a Browns fan! He was just so wonderful with his new grandson...what a proud papa! We woke up Saturday morning to Carter getting his bath! It was cute, but my dad was almost clueless!! Nonetheless, they got through it together!!

Saturday, we went to a party that was being thrown for Steven's uncle that lives in Australia. Him and his wife just had twins and this was their 1st time in the states. Once again, it was so cool to be the proud mommy introducing Carter to everyone! I enjoy it so much!! After the party, we had Christmas with my father in law, who was up from NC.

Sunday was Carter's 1st day in church. We brought him to our former church, the one we were married at. The people there are all so wonderful and I love them like my own family. It was so nice to introduce them to the miracle they spent hours praying for. What a true blessing that was!

We are now home and trying to unpack. Steven's youngest brother came with us for the week. I'm sure we'll have a fun time! He will be here for New Year's, which is awesome. Tomorrow we are all going to spend our gift cards that we got for Christmas...BRU here I come!!

Our Christmas weekend was just amazing. I am sure that I will never forget it. I truly have the best gift in the world...a family that I can love for many Christmases to come!

HO HO HO!

Hope you all have a Merry Christmas!

God Bless!

Christmas par-tay!!

We had our family Christmas party yesterday. Not much to blog about, but I wanted to share this...

Isn't he the cutest ever??

My due date...

Today is December 19th...my due date. I should be in the hospital meeting my baby for the first time today. Instead, I am home with a beautiful, healthy 7 week old baby boy...I couldn't imagine my life any other way. I am so thankful that things happened the way that they did. As hard as things were 7 weeks ago, life is perfect and I am so proud of my little man.

I had my 6 week OB appointment yesterday. Although Carter is 7 weeks, I had to reschedule because I needed my nurse to accompany me and her baby was sick last week. Everything went well and I am the proud owner of a brand new IUD! Is that weird to anyone else?? An infertile going on birth control?? I also got a prescription for Reglan to increase my milk supply. Since Carter still hasn't mastered the art of latching on, I pump every few hours. This can cause a low supply and I have even had to supplement with formula a few times. Hopefully I won't have to do that anymore. It seems like the formula makes him uncomfortable. Using breastmilk makes it so we don't have to figure out which formula would work best...because he would probably be uncomfortable the entire time.

Steven assembled all the extra parts of my new wheelchair today. I am pretty excited...its been a long time coming. I will post pics of my new whip later! Right now I am going to finish wrapping Carter's Christmas presents and watch the Cav's game with my hubby. Hope you all have a great weekend!

Our early Christmas.

Steven's mom, brother, grandmother, and godmother came from NY this weekend to celebrate Christmas. We planned this awhile back, before we got the OK to travel with Carter.

Friday night, we opened presents. Steven's mother went overboard on us, as usual. She is so thoughtful and always gets us such awesome things. My favorite gift from her is my digital photo keychain. It is full of photos of Carter already! She also got me some really cute clothes. They were much needed...I haven't shopped for clothes since I had Carter. Steven gave me my iPod Touch, as I mentioned in my last post. It is seriously my most awesome gadget! He totally surprised me. I put all of Carter's lullabies on my iPod Video and it has been docked in the nursery since he's been home. It plays great through the iBoom, but when headphones are plugged into it, it acts up. I've had it for a long time, so I kind of was due for a new one, but would have never bought it for myself. When I opened it, I couldn't believe it! Such a thoughtful gift! He really outdid himself this year.

Last night, Steven's mom took us all out for Christmas dinner. She said we could choose any resteraunt and of course Steven chose Smokey Bones. It was really nice to get out of the house, since I haven't in awhile. The food was good, too!!

Today, I went to lunch with my girlfriends from high school. We went to TGI Fridays. It was cool because we were all able to catch up on each other's lives. It was my first time being able to join in when all the proud mothers showed their kids' pictures!! It was so awesome!! I used my new digital keychain, LOL! Great gift!!

OK, I have a lot of cleaning to do. It was a crazy weekend and I have a huge mess to take care of. Here are a few pictures from this weekend.

Merry Christmas to me!!

I am just testing out my new iPod Touch that Steven suprised me with! It has wireless Internet and it's awesome!! We are celebrating Christmas with his family this weekend. I will post pics when I can.

Sent by iPod Touch

More valuable than gold!

Thursday I got a call from the hospital's lactation consultant. She told me that I had left 3 decent sized vials of breastmilk in the NICU freezer. She asked me if I wanted it. Since it is such a far drive and Steven and I are still sharing my gas-guzzler for a couple more months, I told her I would try to get there. I thought about how difficult of a time I am having pumping now that Carter eats close to 3 ounces every 3 hours and I just couldn't let it go to waste. After Carter's pedi appointment, I drove all the way to Cleveland and got my 6 ounces of milk. I was kinda expecting more...since she said "decent sized vials" but that is a little over 2 feedings, so I'm ok with it.

Carter's appointment went great. The doctor kept saying over and over how great he looks. She weighed him completely naked and he was 5lbs 15oz...so close to that 6lb mark! My baby is growing so fast! He doesn't have to go back for another month, but he gets 5 shots then. Mommy is not looking forward to that!

Steven decided to try a level 2 nipple on Carter this afternoon because he still tires out during feedings. Of course I was afraid...I thought it may be too fast of a flow and that he may choke. He did really well with it! He didn't choke and it made his feeding seem so much easier for him. He just sat there sucking away and only stopped when he had to burp. It was actually a relief to see. He always stops to take breaks because he poops out. Now, he can just relax and eat! Good move daddy! We're really getting the hang of this!

Growing like a weed.

We had an appointment with a nutritionist at the health department yesterday to make sure the fortifier that we use in Carter's milk is doing its job. I also had to have my iron checked. It looked good, so I must be eating right. Carter was weighed and as soon as the number popped up on the scale, my jaw dropped. 6lbs 3oz?!? I was like "how much does his sleeper weigh?" The lady told me that she would say Carter weighed no less than 6lbs!! That would make it 15oz in 1 week!! He has his 1 month well-visit with his pedi tomorrow, so I am going to ask her how much longer we should keep him on the Neo Sure. He is gaining so much...maybe the breastmilk is enough.

Fed Ex just dropped off Carter's Synagis. The nurse is coming to administer it on Monday, so I had to put it in the refrigerator. For those of you who aren't familiar, Synagis is a monthly injection for preemies to prevent RSV (Respiratory syncytial virus). It is one of the major causes of respiratory illness in babies and preemies are more prone to it. So, Carter will need to have it every month for 1 year.

My blog won its first award, thanks to Making Babies! How excited am I to know that people enjoy reading about my everyday life?!

Now, I get to choose 5 of my favorites to pass it on to...

1. Sara @ Gas Passer AKA UUer...my partner in crime. She is such a strong and amazing mother and we all could learn a lot from her and her baby girl Brynn.
2. Lisa @ My Journey Through Infertility. I just admire how she adores her little man, Cameron. Go Buckeyes!! Hehe!
3. Beth @ Taking Chances. Her and I got our BFPs around the same time and I have loved reading all of her crazy posts! I can't wait for her little Connelly to be born!
4. Tina @ So Very Blessed. She is an amazing mother of 6 and I have gotten a lot of great tips and laughs from her blog!
5. S.E. at Riding the Roller Coaster. This woman is a true inspiration. She has had such a rough journey yet always finds the silver lining. I always say she has a huge miracle coming her way. She deserves every bit of it.

Thanks for blogging girls! Make sure you put the graphic up on your blogs and pass it on to 5 of your favorites!

UPDATE: Oh my!! I totally didn't realize that Lisa gave me an award way back in October! So, technically that would've been my 1st award.


I was admitted into Labor & Delivery right after it was given, so I guess I just missed it. So sorry Lisa!! And thank you so much!!

A different kind of thankful.

Yesterday was my 1st Thanksgiving as a mom. I cannot even begin to explain how different it was for me. Before now, it was all about turkey, stuffing, pie, and sleep. Those things were all part of my day (except for sleep...what's sleep?)...but there was much more to focus on and be thankful for. I was able to look at my beautiful family and see what this holiday is all about.

I am so proud of my son for being such a strong little man...beating the odds so he could spend Thanksgiving with us even though he shouldn't even be here yet.

I am proud of my husband because he is the best father I could've ever given to Carter...I am truly thankful for all he does.

I am the happiest girl alive and I will never forget what my boys have helped me see this Thanksgiving. I continue to praise God for all of my blessings. My heart overflows a little more each day.

Please pray for my good friend Sara. Her baby girl Brynn is back in the hospital after a wonderful but short stay at home. They are both so strong and have been through a lot since Brynn's birth. Let's come together in prayer to get them back home where they belong.

BIG boy!

Carter had his 2nd weight check yesterday. Last Tuesday, he weighed 4lbs 8oz. The pediatrician said she wanted to see him gain at least a half-ounce per day. Yesterday, he weighed a whopping 5 lbs 1oz!! That is over an ounce per day!! We are so proud of our big boy! The doctor was amazed and said that Carter doesn't need weekly weight checks anymore! His next appointment is next Thursday and its just a normal 1 month well visit. I can't believe my baby is going to be 1 month old already. She also said we are ok to travel with Carter...so we are hoping to go to NY at the end of December! We are very excited!!

Steven and I also did something very romantic for our anniversary...we got our flu shots! The NICU doctors told us it would be a good idea, since Carter is so small. His immune system might not be able to handle the flu. I was a baby through the entire thing, but it got done!

Tonight, the boys are going to chill while my mom and I bake pies for tomorrow. This year, Thanksgiving has a new meaning for me and I am so excited to spend it with my new family!

2 years ago today...

Today is my 2 year anniversary. With all that has happened in the last month, I am realizing more and more each day how lucky I am to have Steven in my life. He has given me so much and taken care of me in ways that most men would turn and run from. We have been through more together than most couples go through in their entire lives.

I met Steven on the first day of 11th grade....in September of 1998. He was in the 9th grade. We quickly became good friends and both developed little crushes on each other...but I had a boyfriend already. On May 26th of 1999, I was in the car crash that left me paralyzed. My boyfriend quickly ran for the hills. I spent the next 2 years convincing myself that nobody would ever love me.

In May of 2001, Steven accompanied one of my friends to my house. My crush came rushing back...I was seriously smitten! Of course I didn't think he could possibly like me at all. I quietly crushed on him and tried to hide it. A few days later, he came back over to hang out. As everyone was leaving, he stayed behind. He went to hug me good-bye and gave me the most amazing kiss of my life! I never expected anyone to like me the way I was...but he never saw anything different than the same girl I was before. We officially became a couple on his birthday, July 31st.

On July 30, 2002, Steven took me out to dinner for our 1 year anniversary. Right in the middle of dinner, he got down on one knee and asked me to be his wife. We had a long engagement, but it was all worth it. On November 25, 2006, we were married in NY.

He says I made him the happiest man alive...but really I'm the lucky one. I never expected anyone to love me after my accident. Steven never let my disability play a part in our relationship. He did what he had to do to take care of me so we could be together. Today, 2 years later, we have come so far. We are married, own a home, and have the most beautiful baby in the world. I love my husband more every day and I look forward to the rest of my life!

Winding down.

What a week! Kelly was here from Tuesday to Friday. After she left, my mother-in-law, brother-in-law, aunt and cousin, and Carter's G-mom (Godmother) came in from NY. They just left this morning. It was a great week and I am so glad everyone got to come visit and spend time with Carter. They were all so helpful and let Steven and I get some much needed rest. Now we are trying to wind down and let Carter continue adjusting to home...since he only got 2 full days to do it before all our company came. Right now, my boys are "watching football" on the couch. ("watching football = taking a nap together".)

Aunt Kelly hanging out with Carter.

She even helped us catch up on some laundry!

As we are winding down, I am reminded of how blessed I am to have this beautiful family. I have the 2 most wonderful human beings sleeping on my couch right now and I thank God for thinking of me as worthy of the responsibility that He has given me. I am happier than I have ever been in my whole life and I can't wait to see what each day brings. Praise the Lord for these miracles!

Mommy's day out...

My BFF Kelly is here! She arrived on Tuesday night, bearing gifts! Her husband sent a swing, diapers, and an enormous box of wipes! Carter loves his swing! Its his new favorite hobby. Kelly has been a huge help. She has been taking care of Carter and helping us with laundry and housework. Tuesday, she even got up with him for all of his feedings! Ahh...sleep!! It was wonderful. I am so thankful.

Today, Kelly and I went to the house where A Christmas Story was filmed. It is our favorite movie ever, so we were totally excited to go there. It is actually only 25 miles from my house, but I have never been there because nobody else likes the movie as much as I do...besides Kelly! It was awesome! We were the only ones there because we went at 4pm on a Thursday. We got a private tour and were allowed to touch everything and take as many pictures as we wanted! It was seriously a dream come true for us! What a fun day! Now, we are home watching A Christmas Story. Things are so much different now that we've seen it in real life!

Kelly leaves tomorrow morning...I wish I could keep her but I'm sure her hubby and kids would miss her...darn! Anyway, we will spend tomorrow getting the house spruced up for Steven's mom, brother, and Carter's godmother. They will be in from NY tomorrow night. I love visitors!! I am so glad that everyone is able to come out to spend time with Carter! What a blessing.

Carter's First Outing.

Carter had his first pediatrician appointment today. He weighs 4lbs. 9oz. and the doctor said everything looks great. We are just trying to fatten him up a bit. He goes back in a week to check his weight again. The doctor was very nice and was good with Carter. We are very happy with our decision.

After the appointment, we had to run to Babies R Us for diapers. The preemie ones we have hurt his circumcision (which is almost healed now!!) and our other newborn ones run big and he swims in them! The only ones that work perfectly are Pampers Swaddlers. We get newborn ones then fold them down. While at BRU, you know I can't just buy one thing! We got him a newborn pram because the other 2 he has are way too big. We literally bundled him up in blankets earlier with a fleece sleeper and hat because we had no pram that fit. I felt so bad. Anyway, I also bought a bottle warmer for the car because we brought a bottle to the doctor's office for his 11 'o clock feeding and it froze solid in the cooler! Luckily, the nurse gave us a cup of hot water to thaw it. I got Carter more blue Soothies because he keeps losing them. I also hit the motherload and found a Soothie clip!! I have been looking since before Carter was born!!!! We got a car mirror for behind the carseat, more preemie Dr. Brown's, and an extra Boppy cover. I have a serious BRU problem!! But its all needed, so its ok!

Tonight, my BFF Kelly is driving in from NY! I am so excited! She is seeing my house and meeting Carter for the 1st time. She is leaving Friday but I might lock her in the basement so I can keep her here!! It should be a fun week for all of us!

Nurse Ratchet.

So...I almost killed someone today. The NICU always sends a nurse out to weigh the babies and check their temps a couple days after they leave, just to make sure that there is nothing else they should do to help mom and dad. Anyway, the nurse came today. She wasn't actually a NICU nurse. She was just a regular ole' agency nurse with no preemie experience what-so-ever. She weighed him and her scale said 4lbs. 5oz. Wrong!! He was 4lbs. 8.5oz. when he left the hospital and he's eating more now that he's at home. Not to mention we weighed him this morning and it said 5lbs. Then, she undressed him completely and was examining his entire body. I felt like a criminal. After the frisking, she tried taking his temp, which was 36.1c...because she had him undressed for 10 minutes! I'm like "hello! Preemies sometimes have a hard time regulating their temps...keep him warm! Idiot!!!" Steven quickly grabbed a warm sleeper and put it on him with a hat then swaddled him. He was on the changing table that attaches to the Pack n Play...the lady goes over and starts shaking it! What for?? We still have no clue but she's lucky I didn't knock her ass out! After that, she decided to pry his eyes open to check his pupils...unneccesary! Then she tried scaring him to see if he'd jump, shook a rattle in his ear, and teased him by putting his pacifier by his mouth, then took it away. Some of this stuff has its reasons, but all those tests were done at the hospital already.

So, I called the hospital after the nurse left and told them I was declining the 2nd appointment with this lady. The doctor was like "You are only supposed to do that once...just for weight and temp checks. Did she try to get you to make another appointment?" I told her yes and she said that the agency was not told to do any exams of any kind. I told her how rough and careless the nurse was with Carter and she asked for her name. I told her and she said that she would be sure to call and let them know that they are not to come again and that Veronica needs preemie experience because she is evidently lacking. She said not to worry about the weight and that their scale was probably a piece of crap. She assured me that all was well and that Carter is doing great. I feel better now, but I was seriously spitting nails after the nurse left!

Carter has been doing awesome! He's eating about 50mL every feeding as long as we don't wake him up to feed...he has to do it on his own!! Stubborn boy! We went to Babies R Us last night and got a bunch of preemie sleepers on clearance! He looks much more comfy in stuff that fits.

OK...somebody just woke up and wants to be held...how lucky am I?! I thank God every time I look at my precious gift. I can't even begin to tell you how truly blessed I feel.

Welcome home Carter!

Carter is finally home! Our first night was pretty rough, but we all made it through! The preemie diapers were rubbing on his circumcision and he was up every hour crying. As soon as we tried a regular newborn diaper, he fell right to sleep and we had to wake him to feed him. Now he is relaxing and feeling much better. The only issue we have now is that none of his clothes fit! Even the preemie clothes we bought are too big. Later on, we are going to Babies R Us to see if they have anything smaller than what we have now. I feel so bad for him...he's just swimming in the sleeper he has on right now! He is so cute!!

So...motherhood is more than I could've ever hoped for. My husband is such an amazing dad and I couldn't do any of this without him. Carter is truly our gift from God and I can't wait to watch him learn and grow. My heart is full!

Its official...

...tomorrow is the big day!! Carter is coming home!!

The end is here!!

Carter had an amazing 24 hours! Last night at 2am, our favorite nurse Don removed his NG tube. He is eating all by himself and was even put on an "ad-lib diet"...meaning he can eat however much he wants every 3 hours. No more forcing him to eat when he is tired! Now that he isn't being made to eat, he is eating more than ever! As of 2am, he weighed 4lbs 4oz.

Before we left the NICU last night, we had Don do the take-home checklist with us. We watched videos about car seat safety and CPR. That was it for what we had to do...the rest is all about the doctors. I think they realized that we were taking initiative because when we got there this morning, his hearing screen had been done, the car seat challenge was ordered, the circumcision paperwork was done, and the nurse practitioner came to give us the heads up that Carter will have his circ and immunizations tomorrow and as long as he is gaining weight on the new diet, he can come home!! We are guessing he will be released on Friday!!

Praise God for this wonderful miracle! And thank you all for your love and prayers!!

Not much longer!

Carter is doing great!! He is up to 35mL of breastmilk with 5 mL of fortifier (for calories) every 3 hours and is eating most of the time out of the bottle! The big news is that he now weighs 4 pounds, 2 ounces!!! I think he will be home this weekend...please pray for us. I am off to get a good night's sleep, so I will update you as soon as we know more.

The Big Boy Bed!

(In his big boy bed!)

So sorry its been a few days. Being a NICU mommy means spending all free time with your baby. If I am home, I am either sleeping, pumping, or getting ready to go to the hospital! I actually had to buy a new breast pump 2 days ago. I got the First Years one for my shower and it ended up making me crack and bleed. And I was getting maybe a half an ounce in 20 minutes...if anything. I called my trust officer and told her I was in excruciating pain and that I needed $300 for the Medela Pump in Style. She said "Go buy it and fax me the reciept. We will reimburse you. This is a comfort issue for you so it is automatically covered." Thank you Jesus!! I ran to Babies R Us and got it...OMG!!! It is awesome! I am getting 3 ounces in 15 minutes, every 2 hours! It isn't painful and I am getting what Carter needs. If any of you plan on pumping, get the Medela PIS. It is worth the extra money...trust me.

Carter had a great day today. He is taking half of his feedings all by himself which is awesome! He was struggling with it so he has an NG tube, but he is steadily building up the stamina to eat all 33mL without any help. He is up 1 ounce from his birth weight, which is great because he lost 1 and a half ounces within a few days of his birth.

Carter is officially no longer a resident of Isolette #6...he has been moved to a big boy bed!! He is regulating his own temperature! He is so strong for being 34 weeks. I am so so proud of him!

A social worker came in today and told us that a nurse would be coming to the house to check on us after we bring Carter home. They do it with all NICU babies because it can be overwhelming having them home not hooked to a hundred monitors telling you that your baby is fine. A little while later, a doctor came in and asked us if everything was ready at home. We said "of course!" He said Carter is doing great and we can expect him to be released in about a week!! By then, he will be plumped up and eating on his own. I am so excited to get him home!! I see the light at the end of the tunnel!!

The Overflow Baby.

I spent the day in the NICU with Carter today. When I first got there, as I got close to the isolette, I saw 4 phototherapy lights. I automatically spazzed out and the nurse goes "Carter is over there." He was moved last night to the spot they call the "overflow spot". It is the last stop before going home! His feedings were raised to 25mL and will go to 30mL at midnight tonight. He also decided that he no longer wanted an IV, so he pulled it out. So far, he's 3 for 3 with IVs. If they let an arm free, he will pull it out! They finally decided not to put another in because he doesn't need IV meds or fluids anymore. The isolette should be gone within the next couple of days. Hopefully tomorrow. It was at 29 degrees when I was there and it needs to be at 28. Then, if my sweet boy can keep a normal temperature, he gets a big boy bed!! They don't expect him to have any trouble with it.

I am spending the day there tomorrow and we are going to work on getting him to latch on to my breast. So far, he likes boobies, but he doesn't actually realize that food comes out! So...our goal for the day is to make him aware of this! Your continued prayer is very much appreciated. I can almost see him in his crib right now...if I ever put him down!!

Mommy's little piggy! (Updated)

Carter is turning into quite the little piggy! I called to check on him this morning and the nurse told me that his last 3 feedings were 12mL and he had them down in less than 5 minutes. She said the doctors would be in in a bit to raise his intake...probably to 16mL. He is such a doll. I couldn't ask for more.

I am pumping breast milk as much as I can. I am pretty sore, so I'm not doing it as often as I probably should be. I am getting good amounts though, so I'm happy. The NICU gave me these vials with name tags and we fill them up and freeze them. I am so thankful that I got my pump for my shower. The hospital pump literally felt like it was tearing my nipple off! Mine isn't quite as powerful, but it is much more comfortable. I'd rather pump for 20 minutes with mine than 10 minutes with theirs.

I am just waiting patiently for Steven to get home from work so we can head up to the hospital. We decided that he should work until Carter is home, then take time off. It sucks, but it will be much better in the long run because his paternity leave is not paid.

I will try to post pictures later...

UPDATE @ 8:16pm: Carter is taking 16mL wonderfully and will be bumped up to 20mL at midnight!!! What a little rockstar! Steven got me a new camera for an early anniversary gift so I don't have to lug the Big Zoom around anymore. Now I'm really gonna go all "proud mommy" on Carter!

Making progress!

I am home. I was released Friday night. It feels bitter-sweet. I am certainly glad to be home, but my baby is still in the NICU. It is very hard to leave him every night to make the long drive home. I know he is in good hands, but that doesn't make it any easier.

Carter is doing great. He had his milk bumped up to 8mL from 4mL yesterday. I attempted to get him to latch on last night, but all he wanted to do was play with it...wonder where he gets that!! I will try again today, but at least I am pumping every few hours and he gets it from a bottle. I know how important breast milk is...especially for preemies. So, I pump at home, freeze it, and pop it in a little cooler for our daily trip to the NICU.

Carter was also removed from under the phototherapy lights! His biliruben levels went all the way down to 6.6...they have to be less than 8 to come out from under the lights. They are not 100% sure he is out for good, so we are relying on all your wonderful prayer! It has helped more than you will ever know.

So...now all our little guy has to do is steadily gain weight and he will be ready to come home! He will also have to maintain his temperature, but we are not really expecting much of an issue with that. I am so proud of everything he is doing and I am so ready to get him home where he belongs. Like I said, your prayers are the only thing that gets us from day to day, so please keep them coming. I will update you on Carter's new progress when I get home later!

Mommy's little superstar...

Carter is continuing to kick butt in the NICU. Today, his nasal canula was taken off and he is breathing room air all by himself. We were able to hold him! Oh my God...what a miracle! I wanted to run away with him! Steven held him and they asked if one of us wanted to attempt to bottle feed Carter some of the breastmilk I had pumped. I let Steven do the honors. They were hoping that he would eat 4mL...he ended up taking 6mL! The doctors had mentioned that they may place an NG tube so Carter can get the extra nutrience he needs to gain enough weight. But he is eating out of a bottle, which is a huge feat for his age. We are so proud of him!

The doctors are putting him under the phototherapy lights for a few days because he was looking a little jaundice. So, he'll be gettin' a sweet tan until they say he is ok to come out! In any event, Carter is exceeding all expectations and we can't wait to see what he does next!

Welcome Carter John!!!!

Carter has arrived!! He was born at 8:46am and weighs 3 pounds 14 ounces. He is 17 and 1/4 inches long. He is only wearing a nasal canula for a little extra oxygen and has an IV for antibiotics and nutrience. He is the most gorgeous baby I have ever seen and I love him more than I ever thought humanly possible!

My birth story is actually a bit scary. Before Steven left for work, I was feeling kinda off so I asked to be hooked up to the monitor. I was having itty bitty contractions every once in awhile, but nothing compared to what I have been having. A couple hours later, I started feeling not so good again. I called in a doctor and as she was checking my dilation, I started having a seizure...which was why the OB was having me get the A-line and the epidural...so my body didn't experience pain. Well, we couldn't get that done in time and my body just couldn't handle it. I was only out for a minute and never went below 96% oxygen, so I am not at risk of brain damage or anything. Praise the Lord. After I was done siezing, the OB told me to push...I did and out he came! I also had a placental abruption, but it literally came out 5 seconds after Carter did, so he was not affected by it. As horrible as it all sounds, it really worked out great. Both Steven and my mom missed the birth, but with that they also missed the siezure, so that is a blessing in disguise. I am so happy that everything is going great and I must say that I feel awesome!

I began pumping breastmilk, so I know that will give him even less days in the NICU. I can't stop thanking God for being with us today. We are so truly blessed!!

Making it feel like home...

I'm still here. Had some serious contractions yesterday, but baby Carter is just not ready to come yet. My cervix is still totally closed. I am continuing to leak fluid, but there isn't any blood involved anymore, which is great.

Today, my mom and my cousin Megan are on a mission to help Steven and I turn this place into home...or as close to home as it will get! My mom brought bedding from home, games, cards, and homemade food, while Megan is getting Steven an air mattress so he can get a better night's sleep than he does on the itty bitty couch he's been sleeping on. Megan is also putting in a request for me to be moved to a bigger room. Seriously, because of her I get treated like a celebrity here! I mean, of course I would rather be home, but I have to be thankful that people care so much here. I am just trying to focus on making it 10 more days...then we will take things from there.

I spoke with the head of Anesthesia yesterday. I have to admit, it was quite scary. We discussed the epidural and its effects...and I will be needing an arterial line to monitor my blood pressure while I am in labor. This is very very scary for me because I know they are painful. I know it is best for me and Carter, but it is still not something I want to do. I barely sit still for blood draws. The IV almost killed me...now we are putting a needle in my artery? Lord, please be with me.

Well, things are looking good...at least to me. I break down a little bit each day, but I am trying to stay strong. My OB told me to get out of my room today...so I may get in my wheelchair and dawdle around the hospital later. It is hard to find the energy to do anything in here...but I think it will help. Your continued prayer and encouragement is so so appreciated. Only 10 more days!

Beating the odds.

We've gotten through another day! Today was actually a very good day. I am officially done with IV antibiotics, which is great because I hate IVs! I should be able to have it taken out tomorrow when my OB gets here. Of course I will have to get another when I actually go to have the baby, but the break will be nice!! I hate everything about having a needle sticking out of my hand.

My OB came in this morning and said that we have beaten the odds today. He told us that 80% of women give birth within the first week of their water being broken. Today is 1 week and Carter is still snug inside. He is handling things well, so we are just having daily NSTs to be sure that his cord is not being compressed...which can be a concern with low fluid (about 1 in 100 pregnancies). I am still leaking, but it is being monitored and things are still looking OK in that area. There is still a little blood mixed in, but my OB isn't convinced that it has anything to do with my placenta. He said that we are doing good...but to be prepared to go at anytime. I honestly don't feel that Carter will be making his big debut yet. The OB said that if I do carry him to 34 weeks, which would be November 7th, we will induce. He thinks that with the steroids given, Carter will be just wonderful by that point. That way, we don't stand anymore chances of infection. So...by next Friday, I will be a mommy!

Once again, thank you all for your positive comments. I have been reading them over and over to remind myself that I can do this. Blogger friends are truly family and I love you all. I will continue to update as news comes in. Please pray that my uterus holds in my precious baby boy for the next 12 days.

Still hangin in.

We're still hanging in there. My mom offered to stay with the dogs tonight, so Steven will be with me. Praise God. After last night, I couldn't stay alone again. I cried, I was lonely, and I felt so far from home. Finally my cousin (my L&D RN) came in at 3:30am with Benedryl and that knocked me out...until the OB came in for morning rounds at 6. After that, I couldn't fall back to sleep. I called Steven at 8 and he grabbed some extra things that I left behind and joined me up here. I just started bawling when I saw him. I am so happy he is here.

I still feel good. They hooked me up to the fetal monitor for about an hour earlier. Carter is still doing great...totally oblivious. I only had 3 small contractions during that time and to be honest, I didn't even feel them. Fine by me!

We did meet with a NICU doctor, finally! Even at 32 weeks, they are not worried in the slightest. They said we will handle any issues as they come, but they expect Carter to do very well. We both feel much better. I get my last dose of steroids at 7pm and that will make me feel much better even more! I am still getting antibiotics in my IV 4 times a day, since my water is broken. Carter will stay in longer if we can prevent infection, so I am allowing them to poke me as much as they need to...even though I hate it!

I am still leaking fluid with a little blood, but they are not worried by it, so we are just playing it by ear right now. I will update as soon as I have new info. Thank you so much for all the lovely comments. They got me through my 1st 24 hours...and that means more than you will ever know. I love you all.

In till the big show...

Well, here I am...at the hospital. My water did actually break on Sunday. I have been leaking slowly ever since. Today I was scheduled to have an ultrasound at 3. Around 2, I felt another dribble and low and behold...more fluid. We got to the ultrasound and they measured less than 2 cm of amniotic fluid. I have been admitted and will be here until Carter is born. I have been given my 1st dose of betamethazone to mature his lungs and will get another tomorrow. I am also getting antibiotics to prevent infection. We spoke with an anesthesiologist earlier and went over everything for my epidural. We are also meeting with the NICU team to discuss what may happen when the baby arrives. I am very sad and upset. I feel as though I let Carter and Steven down. My only job right now is to keep this baby safe and I am not doing so. Steven went home to be with the dogs, so I am on my own right now. I miss him so much.

So, for now I am stuck in bed and playing the waiting game. The doctor said I could go any time, but we're still trying to get to our goal of 34 weeks. Please...any prayers are so appreciated. I will update when I know more about things.

Chronic Pregnancy Brain.

Its my new disease. I seriously just found Thank You cards from my baby shower and sent them out. I know what you're thinking..."Wow Candi! You're quick! Your shower was just this weekend and you have all those Thank You's sent out?!" Well, you're half right. These Thank You's were from my other shower...the Ohio one...on September 6th. I made them all out the week after and they have been sitting in my kitchen ever since. People probably think I am the most ungrateful brat God ever created! Don't worry peeps...I've met that particular human being already, and I'm not her!

I got my baby monitor today. We were going to do the video monitor, but it just seems like all the reviews are so bad that it is probably just a waste of money. I'd rather waste $50 on an audio monitor than $150 on a video one. We decided on the Fisher Price Sights 'n Sounds dual monitor. I put it in Carter's room and had my friend go in there and whisper from the other side of the room and heard her loud and clear. There isn't any static, so I'm happy with it. It came with 2 receivers, so I put one in the bedroom and one in the living room. Not bad!

I'm feeling good today. I've just been vegging out...as my new norm! Hopefully tonight, Steven will move the love seat downstairs to make room for the Pack 'n Play. I will post those nursery pics when he gets home...the USB cord for the camera is in the truck, which he drove to work. See! My brain is just not functioning properly!

Another close call...

I just got back from the hospital. When I talked to my cousin the other night when I was having those fluid issues, she said not too worry too much unless I had any funky discharge. Sure enough, this morning when I woke up...funky discharge. It was unlike anything I had seen before, so I got nervous. Steven, of course, began panicking. I sent him off to work and promised I'd call the doctor and keep him updated. I called the doctor and his nurse said that I needed to be seen in L&D. They wanted to make sure that my water had not broken and that the discharge didn't have anything to do with my mucus plug. We got there and they hooked me and Carter up. I was having no contractions and Carter was just dancing away. My OB came and checked my water and said that I looked "dry" but wanted to do an ultrasound anyway. He brought in the machine and said that my fluid was very low. Had it been any lower, he said we would have to deliver right away. So, he let me come home, but wants to see me Friday to check again. Please pray for me. I am not ready to have this baby just yet.

On a lighter note, the nursery is done! Everything looks so great. I could just sit in there all day! I will post pictures later...I promise!! Right now, Steven is taking some much deserved Xbox time and I am still refusing to get up! I will have him get some good pics when he gets done killing terrorists. (He's playing Call of Duty 4.)

Truly blessed.

We are home safely and I am still pregnant! Carter was such a trooper. Saturday was a very very long day and he did a great job. We got up at 8am and Steven, Corey (my brother-in-law), Kelly (my BFF), and I went to the mall. I wanted an outfit to wear to my shower and Steven was in desperate need of an entire ensable! I went to Motherhood and got a long sleeved t, a down vest, and my very 1st nursing bra...how embarassing! We were running late, so I changed at the mall and we headed to the shower.

Shower #1 was amazing. My mother-in-law went totally overboard for us. There was close to 50 people there and we got so many wonderful gifts. Our travel system, baither, tons of clothes, toys, books, gift cards...we got it all!! On top of that, everyone brought diapers and wipes! People really were generous and we are so so thankful.

On to shower #2 at my dad's. It was about a 40 minute drive...but I was too excited to rest! My dad got us our dresser and my breast pump, which was a nice surprise...but embarrassing seeing as it came from my dad! Everyone there was also extremely generous. We got more clothes, a sling, Boppy, and so many other things. Everyone there brought diapers and wipes, too! We seriously won't need to buy any for at least 6 months!!

Loading up the car was challenging. Steven went to walmart and bought 2 48 gallon storage bins. 1 was filled with clothes and the other was strictly diapers and wipes...both barely closed! Then we filled up 2 more baskets with gifts and Steven was able to fit everything into the Escalade like a giant puzzle! Bianca didn't have much room to lay.

I started having contractions on the way home and got very nervous. We were 5 hours from home. I drank water and they got better, but not completely. When I got home, I noticed that both of my legs were badly swollen from the knee down. I said a prayer and got in bed. I slept until 9:00am and asked Steven to stay home because I had had a little pinkish fluid in my pants last night...I was kinda scared that my water had broken, but I think my bladder is irritated and I may have tinkled a little and not noticed. I seem to be the queen of pants-peeing with this pregnancy! Anyway, I called my cousin, who is my L&D nurse and she said to watch it and if more comes, we will page the OB and get me right to the hospital. I was honestly scared because I knew I had overdone it this weekend. I am still in need of plenty of prayer.

Today, Steven and my friend Mandy went out to use the gift cards to get the rest of the stuff we needed. We got the glider rocker, Pack 'n Play, sheets, extra Boppy cover, car window shades, dishwasher baskets, and breast milk freezer organizer. All we have left to get is the monitor and swing base. Other than that, we are ready! Steven is going to finish putting furniture together, so the nursery will be 100% finished tonight! I will post pics as soon as we are done.

I have officially put myself on "recliner rest" until I deliver. Other than OB trips, I am done. I overdid it this weekend and scared myself (and everyone else) to death. I need to spend these last weeks of my pregnancy relaxing at home so I can deliver a strong, healthy little boy.

Umm...what?!?

I had my OB appointment today. It was pretty normal...listened to Carter's heartbeat, gave my pee pee sample, then I began asking my usual 500 questions. Big mistake! First, I was just asking cord blood questions and stuff. Then I decided to ask questions about how he thinks my t-shaped uterus will hold up. To my surprise, he goes "Well, if we can hit my goal of 33 or 34 weeks, I'll be happy." Uhhh, 'scuse me???? I wasn't aware that there was a goal...especially not one that is 6 weeks before my due date. Honestly, I am very nervous now. Now for the next 3 weeks, I am going to be freaking out 24/7. I'm just going to need a lot of prayer.

I also had an eye appointment today. I got new glasses and sunglasses! That was fun!! Its like shopping, only you don't have to pay for it! I got Prada glasses and Juicy Couture sunglasses. I know the bill goes right to my trust fund, so I can shop how I want and they can't debate it because its medical!! Anyway, thankfully they will be here in a couple of weeks because Bianca ate my other glasses when she was little, so I've been wearing old ones that are scratched.

OK...gotta go give Bianca and Bailey their baths, pack, and get Steven to clean out the car for tomorrow's trip. Please please pray for me...I am a little nervous about going into labor while I'm in NY. But my Dr. knows I'm going and he thinks everything will be just fine. I'm going to try to stay relaxed and focus on having a good time.

I'll MAKE it fit!

First and foremost...go Browns!!!! We killed the Giants last night, 35-14! Steven and I went tailgating with a bunch of friends. I actually felt great and I think it tired Carter out because I was able to get a pretty good amount of sleep without waking up.

When I was getting ready to go, I got kinda sad because none of my Browns stuff fits right now. So, my friend Mandy and I decided to put slits up the side of my Brady Quinn jersey and hem it...so now it fits! Granted, I actually cut a very important piece of clothing...but I couldn't go any longer looking like I am not a fan!!

As for this pregnancy thing...I have an OB appointment on Thursday, followed by an eye appointment. I am having big problems with my eyes because of the hormones. I normally wear glasses/contacts, but lately they really haven't been getting the job done. We'll see on Thursday. Then...Friday we leave for my baby showers!! I'm so excited!!!

30 weeks!!

(Seriously...can I just have 1 pic where my dogs act normal?)

Yay!! Less than 10 weeks to go! I am elated just thinking about it!! I can't remember what it feels like to take a deep breath. Not that I am not truly blessed to be pregnant, but after 7 months of it I am definitely ready to be done. I just want to hold Carter in my arms and never let go! I just pray for a safe delivery and a happy and healthy baby.

I don't have another OB appointment until Thursday, then I assume I will need to be seen every week. It stinks because the clinic I go to is a 30+ minute drive, depending on traffic. Thankfully, I won't be making the trip too many times before I deliver. My OB wants to induce a week or two ahead of time if I make it that far, to avoid me going into labor at home. The plan is to get the epidural in place before the contractions start, to avoid something called Autonomic Dysreflexia. All that means is that my body, being that I might not be able to feel the pain in the way other women can, has to react somehow. So, to tell me that something hurts, my body will use other ways of getting my attention, such as raising my blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, and other things. This could be very dangerous because it could potentially cause me to have a stroke. It is different for everyone...so it is hard to predict how my body will react to the pain. Giving the epidural before we even get to that is a good way to keep both me and Carter safe. So, on Thursday I will probably meet with the anesthesiologist as well, since he will play a very important role in my labor and delivery. It is kinda scary for me, but they have all done this before and know what they are doing. I trust them 100% and I am so excited to get it going soon.

Makeover!!

I thought a boyish theme was in order! About time?? I agree! Now my blog kinda looks like a present!

Carter's nightstand came today. It is cute. Its just a plain-jane white table with a drawer, which I filled with burp cloths. I was excited to finally take the lamp out of the package and put it up!! So cute! Only a week and a half until my big NY baby showers...then his room will be done! I am sooo excited!! Hopefully, my contractions stay away or I won't be going anywhere.

I had my breastfeeding class today. I kinda didn't really learn anything new. I have been trying to read about it and get down the basics, but honestly I feel like breastfeeding is something you need the baby to do. Who knows how he will react to it? Anyway, I did get a little bit of good info, so I'm glad I went. Carter was flipping over through the whole class, so every 5 minutes I was a different shape! He enjoys making me look lopsided. Hopefully, he will do it tonight so I can take pictures. I think it is creepy...but its funny. Sometimes I literally look like I am flat on one side! Little stinker!! Anyway, I will post 30 week pics sometime within the next day or 2.

I finally found and filled out my birth plan from thebump.com. Just another item I can check off my list! It is safely tucked into my hospital bag! OK, time to get stuff done before Private Practice. Hope everyone had a good hump day!!

100th Post...what I have learned...

Holy crap! I can't believe I have posted on my blog 100 times! It just seems crazy! Instead of doing a "top 100" anything...which we all know I have no patience for...I think I will recap my journey and tell you what I have learned since post #1.

What I thought:
I began this blog as an outlet when Steven and I first decided that we would give IVF a go. We were so naive to everything we were about to embark on. I thought there would be a few shots, not too many side effects, an egg retrieval, an embryo transfer, and bam! I'd be pregnant. Then I expected 9 months of easy-breezy pregnancy that would end with me holding a perfect little person wrapped in a pink blanket.

What I know now:
IVF is one of the hardest things our marriage will ever endure. It started with blood tests every day, and for someone terrified of needles...that could've been a dealbreaker!! Then came the Lupron injections with the worst side effects of any drug I've ever taken! The hot flashes alone were enough to drive me insane. Next was the Follistim. Looking and feeling 5 months pregnant when you aren't is just no fun! And that awful burn!! I felt like someone had set my left ovary on fire! Egg retrieval was a blast...if you enjoy the feeling of hot sauce in your vagina. I was thankful though. We ended up with 12 embryos and we were just ecstatic!! After 3 days, we went in for our transfer, which was supposed to be the easy part. Well, that went out the window when I peed on the doctor after clearly warning him that he had my bladder too full. Then it was the infamous "2 week wait"...which felt as though it was quite possibly the worst 5 weeks of my entire life! I think I ripped Steven's head off every day for the entire 2 weeks! Poor guy! We were so blessed to find out that we were pregnant!! But thinking that the hard part was over was not the smartest thing ever.

Pregnancy has proven to be nothing like I thought it would be...starting with the color we ended up painting our nursery! All my life, I just assumed I would have a little mini-me that would love pink dresses and pig tails. I never even gave having boys much thought. When we found out that we were having a boy, I was speechless...then I couldn't imagine not having a boy! It truly is amazing how being pregnant changes everything you thought was important. I love Carter more than life itself and I am so thankful to God for blessing Steven and I. I continue to pray for a safe arrival and a long healthy life for my little quarterback! (I'd better quit while I'm ahead...now because I said that, he'll want to be a ballerina! We will love him no matter what!)

Well, that's my 100th post! Thank you all for sticking by my side throughout all of this madness. I never expected anyone to really care about me like you do...just goes to show why bloggers really are true friends. I love you all and hope to share many hundreds more of these posts with you as Carter grows up and we add to our family!

Just like his daddy!

Yesterday's ultrasound was not too much fun...thanks to my very stubborn little boy! (Wonder where he gets that from??) Not only was Carter refusing to move, but he was transverse...and face down! He was folded up like a taco and had his feet covering his face and his hand covering his pee pee. Now, I understand if he no longer wants people seeing his "cash and prizes" but with a face like his, how does he not want people seeing that?? We literally got 2 pictures. One of his thigh and one of what looks like the top of his head. He is soooo grounded when he is born!

Anyway, more importantly, Carter is growing wonderfully. He is 15 inches long and weighs 2 pounds, 9 ounces. The doctor said he is on the "perfectly small size of average"...meaning he is small, but not too small. I was a small baby (6lbs. 11oz., 17in.) so I'm sure he is just going to take after me in that aspect. The doctor saw no physical abnormalities...although he could have fangs for all we know since he wouldn't show his face! But, he is normal and healthy...so I am happy!

I also went to my family doctor yesterday. Remember 2 weeks ago when my ear clogged? Well, up until yesterday I was completely deaf on my left side. It was awful! I tried flushing it with water and peroxide, as well as 2 different prescriptions from my doc...to no avail. I finally told her she had to help me. First, she tried digging it out with this ear spoon thing, but the wax was just too packed. So we moved on to a syringe with a little tube on the end, filled with peroxide and water. After the 4th flush, it finally came out! It was bigger than a pencil eraser...so gross!! I will continue to refuse using Q-tips. I think thats how wax got packed to begin with. Nonetheless, I can finally hear!!

Yesterday I decided to put up Halloween decorations. I just love holidays!! I will post pictures when I stop being lazy. After Steven got home from work, him, me, his friend Wes, and my mom all piled in the car and drove to Seneca-Allegany Casino. Its about 2 and a half hours away, which I drove...both ways! Yuck!! We had a good time, but unfortunately left with less than we had when we came. Steven is actually very good at poker...thank God, since I am not very great at slots!! I can kick ass with the best at the blackjack tables, but those darned video slots get me every time!! It was fun, but I think it will be our last casino hurrah for awhile. We have much more important things to worry about now!

I am off to relax. We are going to watch the Kimbo/Shamrock fight tonight and maybe hang out with my newly preggers friend tomorrow (soooooo excited for her!!). This coming week is a full one for me. Monday I have an appointment with my pain management doctor for my back, Wednesday is my breastfeeding class, and hopefully I can squeeze in a massage or 2...maybe Tuesday and Saturday. I need it these days! Better relax before its no longer an option!!

Ready to go...but let's wait! (Updated)

Well, I packed my hospital bag today. I learned my lesson. What I didn't mention the other night was that a couple of my contractions were so strong that they caused me to pee my pants. Yes...I know pregnant women do that sometimes, but when you don't have extra pants, that is a big problem! I ended up leaving the hospital in a gown...wrapped in a sheet! Its funny now, but it sure wasn't that night!! So...I packed a bag containing everything I'll need if the contractions come back...including two pairs of pants!! Just in case! I no longer trust my bladder!

Just because my bag is packed does not mean that Carter has the OK to come out...not for at least 9 more weeks!

Update: I just talked to the bank and the check for the full amount of the cord blood collection plus 18 years of storage has been sent!! That was the last piece of the puzzle and I feel like the world has been lifted off of my shoulders. As much as I complain about them, the bank really does come through every time...eventually!

BRADY! BRADY! BRADY!

OK this is completely off topic, but its my blog and if I don't vent here, I may start choking people! As you all know, I am a huge football fan...especially when it comes to my Brownies! As I am watching the game, I am getting soooo pissed!! Our QB, Derek Anderson has been screwing up royally since week 1 and our dumb ass coach will not take him out. Brady Quinn was a 1st round draft pick and he could be anywhere right now...playing every week. But instead, he is sticking around in Cleveland, waiting patiently for his shot. In the meantime, Anderson is not only pissing off the fans, but he is also making his own teammates mad. After the last interception, Braylon Edwards had to be pulled back before he went Van Damme on his ass. Tell me again why this man is still on the field?? Maybe the Browns should hire me as their coach.

Whew! Anyway...I am feeling much better. I did have a few contractions last night, but they weren't too bad and I was able to get them under control. Well...I didn't really do it, but they got themselves under control! Carter has been moving just as much as he did before, so until I start feeling something new, I will just keep hanging in there with the contractions I am having.

Tonight, I am going to order the table that will go next to my glider in the nursery. It's pretty plain, but will go wonderfully with our furniture and it has a drawer so I can keep burp pads close while I feed Carter...in case he's a lil puker!! So...that's all for now!

A bump in the road...

I just got back from the hospital. I felt kinda funny all day, so I paged my OB around 3:30 and he said to come to L&D, just to be safe. By the time I got there and got hooked up, my contractions were 5 minutes apart. Carter was handling them well. The doctor came in and checked my cervix and it was closed tight, long, and the baby's head was high. He monitored me a bit longer and when my contractions died down, after about an hour, I was sent home. He said there was no need for Magnesium because my cervix is closed. He was worried that giving it to me would cause my blood pressure to go up, which for a paraplegic is very dangerous. So...I am taking it easy and will need to go back if the contractions pick back up. I'm really tired now, so Steven and I are going to watch the UFC fight in bed. Good night!

How awesome is this?!

So, I'm watching my belly as I often do...and I see some serious movin' and shakin' going on. Glad I had my camera close at hand! Things like this just remind me that miracles happen every day...

(Yes, Bailey always lays like that.)

Yet another fight with the bank...

1st off...I am frustrated because my ear issues are back! Have been for a few days now. This is the 2nd time since I have been pregnant that my left ear has clogged. Since Friday, I have been completely deaf in that ear. Seriously, if I cover my right ear, I got nothin'! It usually only lasts a couple days...with me flushing it 2 or 3 times a day. Today, I decided I had enough and called the doctor. She gave me a prescription...but it doesn't start working until the 4th or 5th day you use it. Great! I can't walk and I can't hear!!

I have managed to pick myself another fight with the bank. I enrolled for cord blood banking about 2 months ago, knowing that my trust had to pay for it because its a medical thing. Even though it is $3,700, I really didn't figure it was even up for debate...considering it could potentially make me walk someday. Well, they are being control freaks again...making me submit my request in writing, along with info on the subject and a fully itemized invoice from CBR. I hope they know that they can't say no. And to top that off, I've faxed these documents twice and they mysteriously "can't find them anywhere". Go figure!!

It's always drama!! So, to make ourselves feel better, we decided to teach Bianca a new trick...

Life is so much better with dogs! I wonder how long it will take us to teach Carter to balance toys on his head.

All done!

Carter's room is done!! We are still waiting on the glider rocker, which we will get when we go to NY for our shower. So...we have one bare wall where that belongs, but other than that, we are ready. We just went to Babies R Us and got the mobile, wall hangings, and a few odds and ends that I needed for the diaper bag. We also got him a homecoming outfit and a winter suit...which he will need shortly after he is born.

Everybody says they can't believe I am prepared so early. I really wasn't aware that I was...kinda thought 6 months pregnant was a good time to get all your ducks in a row. Maybe its because its my first baby. I know that he could come at any time...God forbid...but if he does, we have what we need. Now, we can sit and enjoy the rest of the pregnancy with no worries about not being prepared. I am very happy!

The glider and table will go in this corner.

We are picking up the wall hanging for above the changer tomorrow.

This is where our little slugger will have sweet dreams!

Furniture?? Could it be??

Oh my God!! Yessssss!! My crib is finally in stock! It has been out of stock everywhere for months and I am so picky that I was having a hard time adjusting to the thought of a different crib. Now I don't have to think about it because it is being ordered tomorrow!!

We ordered our changing table a few days ago, so that should be here any day. I can't wait to get it put together! Next, we will get the dresser and then we wait for the glider rocker, which my dad and step-mom want to buy. So, we will get that next month. I can't lie...I am getting very very anxious!! I want the nursery done now!

I started reading to Carter. I got "Oh Baby, the Places You'll Go" by Dr. Seuss. It is adapted to be read to the baby while in utero. I saw a study that babies who are read to in the womb show better sucking reflexes after birth. So...why not??

I am off to hang with Steven. Lately, we haven't seen each other as much as usual and it makes me miss him so much more. I will update when we get the furniture up.

Go Brownies!

OK...today is a big day in the Butchino house. My favorite team, the Cleveland Browns and Steven's favorite team, the Pittsburgh Squealers...I mean Steelers will face off tonight. There will be a chill in the air inside these walls!! Why do I like the Browns?? Well...for starters...

Meet Brady Quinn. Beyond him, I really am not a girly girl when it comes to football. If it weren't for a certain team stacking cheater, I would've taken the trophy in our fantasy league last year. But I'm not bitter! Anyway...I just wanted to share this picture.

Back to the game! The Browns haven't beat the Steelers in...oh, close to forever. So...as you can imagine, my husband has that smug disposition that he has every year...as he assumes that his team is going to win. Well, not today mister!! I will be squeezing my big pregnant belly into my Quinn jersey that absolutely does not fit anymore and once the Browns win, will proceed to be the sorest winner anyone has ever seen!! I bet my husband wished he had one of those clueless wives!

In other Butchino news...our little Princess Bianca is 1 year old today!

GO BROWNS!!