Does it ever end??

Well...its a no-go on the cage. Since we have so many beams in our basement, the cage just wouldn't fit. I didn't realize how big it was. So...onto plan B. We are going to put down a concrete slab by our garage and put it up out there. As far as a cage inside, we found an extra-large metal cage with a plastic bottom at Wal-Mart for $70. My mom is a manager, so she is going to pick it up for us with her 10% discount. Bianca will hate it, but we can't let her tear anything else up. Plus, when the baby comes, we need to be sure we can control her when we need to. So, we will have that later tonight.

On a lighter note, we have central air!! The repairmen came yesterday! They replaced the unit and copper piping. They normally haul it away for you, but we figured since copper is worth so much out here, we would get rid of it ourselves. It makes me feel a little better knowing that we're getting some money back...even though its not much! The important thing is that I am cool and not sweaty. I can finally relax and be comfortable. Thank God!!

I got my cord blood collection kit today. Lots of paperwork to fill out. They also gave us these cheesy LiveStrongish rubber bracelets to wear 4-6 weeks before my due date in case I go into labor early and the doctor on call needs to be reminded to take the cord blood. I have to wear one and Steven has to wear one. Aren't we cool? Anyway, I feel good that it is ready to go and I know that's one less thing to worry about before Carter gets here.

1 down, 3 to go!

My shower was a blast! My aunts did a wonderful job. I only got 1 thing off of my registry (my high chair), but I will not need any more towels, washcloths, or onesies. I got some of the most adorable outfits I have ever seen!! I am also off to a good start on diapers and wipes. I got a couple duplicate outfits that I am going to take back and get diapers. I want to have a good supply before Carter gets here!

We had fun visiting family, too. While I was at my shower, Steven had a boy's day with his brothers. Yesterday, we took Bianca to my dad's to play with her mommy and daddy. They had a great time running around...and B is still tired from it today! Thank God!! I can finally relax! We also got the cage from my dad that was in his basement. He is done breeding boxers and offered it to us for B. She tears the house apart every time we leave her, but if we confine her to a room, she ruins things permanently...like the carpet in our bedroom that needs to be replaced. Every small cage we've gotten for her has turned out bad. She gets her paws or her face caught and ends up making herself bleed. This cage is different because it is bigger and she's been in it numerous times and has not hurt herself. This will be a life saver!!

So...as far as my future baby showers. The one in Ohio is going to be on September 6th. My mom is going to be on vacation from work and wants to make sure she can put it all together without her job interfering. The "Jack and Jill" shower that my mother-in-law is giving us is going to be on October 18th. She is inviting both sides of Steven's family...it is going to be huge. The one that my step-mom is giving me will be the following day...that way we only have to make 1 trip to NY. It will be crazy, but we are so excited!

OK, I'm off to rest after my long weekend. Our central air is being fixed today and I am looking to relax and not sweat for a change! I will post a few shower pics later.

Mommy's little badass!

Here is my little dude with his new mohawk! Doesn't he look dangerous? LOL...if I were a robber, I'd think twice before crossing this vicious guard dog!

It's all in who you know!

I had an OB appointment today. Steven was unable to get off work, so my cousin went with me. She is a Labor & Delivery nurse and works with my OB. The appointment was pretty standard. Lots of questions and then we heard Carter's heartbeat. I love that sound!! I have to go back on Thursday to Fetal Diagnostics to have my cervix checked. I was kinda concerned because I am nearly 20 weeks and still haven't had it done. I just want to make sure that my body is still doing what it is supposed to. So...back to the hospital Thursday, then another OB appointment in 3 weeks.

Now for the exciting news! My cousin was working L&D yesterday and one of her patients had a doula. My cousin complimented her on the way she treated her patient and they started talking about the doctor (who happened to be my OB). From there, they began talking about me and my situation. The doula said she would love to meet with me, but that she is booked for December. She told my cousin that she is sure her partner would love to be my doula...for free! I am super excited!! We have to call her and set up a meeting, but Steven and I already discussed it and we are pretty sure that we will take her up on her offer. I will keep you posted!!

Some weird form of nesting?

I am on a friggin roll this week! I seriously usually don't get this much done!! I'm thankful to have some energy back, but I wasn't expecting to just jump in this way.

1) Our driveway is done. Not that I personally paved it myself, but I have a huge sense of accomplishment from knowing that it is over. We have been waiting on my ramp and the driveway for months, and now both are complete!!

2) Today, I made an appointment for Bailey to have his mohawk fixed. Steven cut it a little crooked and I want to make sure he looks like a little stud for our Albany trip next weekend. He goes to the doggy spa Tuesday morning. I will probably go with him. I trust the groomer with him 100%, but he is my baby and I hate leaving him!! I will definitely post pics of him on Tuesday!

3) Bills are paid! I hate to see the money go, but its done!!

4) Plans are in place for the trip next weekend. Steven and his friend are driving out Friday and going to my mother-in-law's. My mom and I may drive out Friday as well. My shower is Saturday at 3pm in Albany, which is about 8-9 hours from here. So, instead of waking up at the ass crack of dawn on Saturday, we may spend Friday night in NY. The only thing I have left to do before the trip is change my oil...which I hate. What a waste of $30!

5) Our central air is in the process of being fixed...$2,400 later!! Apparently, the entire outside unit is shot, so we need a new one. Go figure! If its not one thing, its another! Oh well...I'm pregnant and its too damn hot to go without it!

6) I finally ordered our Cord Blood Collection Kit from CBR. Now that I'm halfway there, I figured I better get all my ducks in a row with that. We're pretty atoment about it because of my paralysis. It's not necessarally that I want the cord blood for myself, but I certainly don't want Carter to ever have to suffer the way I have. So...that's done and I am relieved!

So...I am trying to relax now. I had a craving for those after-dinner mints, so I sent a friend out for them! I will probably eat the entire bag then get back up and get some housework done!!

By popular demand...

Here are my 18 week belly shots. I didn't realize how round I am until I looked at them!! LOL, I am just glad I'm past the "pregnant? or fat??" stage! Now its safe for people to ask when I'm in public!!

Still BLUE!

We had our 2nd trimester ultrasound today. We still have a BOY! He is the most adorable boy ever, too!! See...

Steven and I have also decided not to name him Noah. We love the name, but I am so afraid that he will end up in a class with 3 other kids named Noah. I guess I didn't realize the popularity of the name until I was more aware of it. We picked the name out when we were in high school, so there wasn't much discussion on it recently. We were watching "The Bucket List" this weekend and Steven goes "I really like the name Carter." I absolutely agreed. So...after much debate, we have decided that our baby boy will be Carter John Butchino. I promised him today that we will not confuse him like this ever again!! I guess its better to change his name now, rather than after he is born!

Anyway, the ultrasound was so fun. The sonographer had to poke at him for awhile, but he was moving all over. It was breath-taking. Then the doctor came in just to double check that everything looked good physically (which it did) and he goes "Whose lips are those??" LOL, Steven goes "Hers!" It was funny...but I do have big lips! Its amazing to see our features on his face. I want more ultrasounds!!

So...everything is normal and looking good. I was informed that the lady who did my very 1st ultrasound gave me the wrong due date. My real one is December 19, which makes me 18 weeks and 3 days, not 17 weeks and 5 days. Anyway, just that much sooner that my boy will be in my arms! I can't wait!!

In my dreams!!

OK, I heard the dreams you have during pregnancy were quite graphic and sometimes "naughty", but holy cow! I was just discussing this with Sara...so now I know I'm not the only one!! I don't feel so bad. Anyway...I thought I'd share, because they're downright funny.

At first, the dreams were strictly Steven and I. I would wake up thinking we were actually in the middle of "doin' the deed"...and he'd be fast asleep on the other end of the bed. I kinda thought my brain was just going crazy, but I hadn't seen anything yet!

In the last week, I have dream-cheated on my husband with 2 different men. I feel terrible about it, because I seriously do NOT fantasize about anyone else when I am awake. At the beginning of the week, I had 2 different flings with Memphis from Big Brother 10. Last night, I switched my sights to Brady Quinn, QB for the Cleveland Browns. In my defense, a news story on him was the last thing I watched before bed...I think that's why. Reguardless, I feel dirty and I need to find Jesus!!!

Pregnancy just gets weirder and weirder!

We're still here!

We're still here...just enjoying the nice weather. It has been so nice the last few days. I just hate that this pregnancy has made me so lazy! I seriously have had no energy. Maybe its because I don't work...I just need motivation. That is why I can't wait until my 1st shower on the 2nd. After that, I will be able to start Noah's room. I need to compare the bedding we picked out to paint, so it matches well. Here is the one we registered for.

I think I want the paint to match the lighter blue color in the quilt. We'll see how it comes together!! I can't wait until everything is ready for our little MVP to come home!

I have an appointment for an ultrasound on Monday, so I'm just waiting for that. I can't wait to see our little man again! And I promise I'll post a belly pic soon!!

You mean they're gonna get BIGGER??

I had a fun day of shopping at Motherhood today. I needed jeans because my other ones have been hurting my stomach. They were just too tight. So, first I picked out a pair of Secret-Fit Belly jeans. I am hesitant to wear them because I am in denial that I need full panel front jeans. But they do look verrrrrrrry comfy!! I also got a pair of overalls because they were on clearance for $16.99. I love them and see myself living in them for awhile!! Then, I began my mission for something to wear to my shower in Albany on August 2nd. I found an adorable dress shirt that will match my black maternity dress pants. Jackpot! I also bought 2 tanks to wear under all the low-cut shirts that I now ooze out of. Here's my problem...

My boobs are out of control. I'm not a very big girl. Last week, I went to Victoria's Secret to buy a new bra. Well...the 34D was too small. Sooo...I tried on the 34DD and it was just a teeny bit too big. It fit better than the D, but I have a hard time moving up cup sizes because I hate boobs!! I found a 36D that seemed to fit. Well, when I got it home, it felt kind of tight. I am only going to get bigger, right? WTF is happening to my body?????

A great big "Thank you!"

I wanted to post to show my gratitude to all of our soldiers that risk their lives every day for people they have never even met. Before this war began, war was just something that happened a million miles away...something that I was never really directly affected by. This war is much different. My little brother just got back from Iraq and will be heading back out shortly. On his first deployment, he was shot in the leg by an AK-47 after being in Iraq for only a few hours. Thank the Lord, he made a full physical recovery after a few months. He went out knowing that he could be hurt or killed, but did it anyway...as many others do. I respect them with all of my being and I am so proud of all of our soldiers. So, to all of you out there fighting, and to their families...THANK YOU!

I hope everyone has a great day tomorrow. While you're grilling and enjoying fireworks with friends and loved ones, slip in a prayer for all those who can't be here with us.

HAPPY 4th OF JULY!!

Almost...but not quite.

I had about a week of no morning sickness. I thought I was good to go. Steven and I were at Walmart last night...another flat tire! Anyway, I started feeling kinda queasy in the store. By the time I got out to the car, I had my head in a plastic bag. I got sick again before bed. Steven rubbed my back until we fell asleep. He is the perfect pregnant husband!! I felt nasty right off the bat this morning...lovely. I took a Zofran, but I still feel kinda yucky. Thankfully, I don't feel like I'm going to toss my cookies, but its still early!

Right now, my dogs are running around being protective. There are a few guys in the driveway and yard. We are having a ramp put on the back of our house. Up until now, I have just had Steven carry me in and out of the house. It has sucked during the day when he is at work because I have no way in and out. I just sit here and watch TV or make sure the house is clean. So, next week, I will be free! It will be nice to just get up and go whenever...if I'm not feeling sick, LOL!

Noah John Butchino

IT'S A BOY!!! I was shocked, but still overjoyed. It is such an amazing feeling to know that there is a little boy growing inside of me right now. I almost feel weird saying "my son"...but that's exactly what he is! I was seriously expecting a girl, but there was no mistake. The doctor had barely touched my belly with the ultrasound and he goes "Whoa...do you want to know what you're having??" Of course we said yes. He goes "Here's one leg, here's two legs, and here's three legs!" LOL, and was he right!! Plain as day!! Steven is very proud!! (sorry about the photo quality. We are without a scanner, so we took a picture of the ultrasounds with our camera.)

2nd trimester!!

Hello! I'm still alive, LOL! I actually had a bit of a breakdown, so I had to back off from the internet for awhile. I have been reading about a lot of terrible things happening to women in the IVF world lately and I think it all just hit home. I woke up last week in the middle of the night crying because I had convinced myself that the baby's heart had stopped. Now that I know all of the things that can go wrong, I play them over and over in my head until I am sure they will happen to me. So, for my own safety and the baby's, I have decided to step back a little bit from message boards, blogs, and websites. I'm still here, just trying to do what I can to keep my body and my mind healthy for the baby.

As for the pregnancy...I am doing great. I'm getting huge and still feeling woozy every day. I kinda thought the 2nd trimester would come and magically wisk away all of my morning sickness...I was very wrong!! I am still taking my Zofran every day and can't wait until I don't need it anymore!!

So, that's pretty much all. 6 more days until our gender scan!! I'll be sure to update with either pink or blue writing! Here's a 13w2d bump pic...I'm getting huge!!

OMFG...I live at Home Depot now!

I'm doing good. I am sick today...but I'll live. I ran out of Zofran and I'm waiting for the refill. Its so hot here, which makes the nausea even worse! I'm inside with the central air on. That's where I'll be for the next 6 months...if anyone needs me! I had a massage yesterday, so I decided to shop while I was out. I spent a 1/2 hour in the parking lot at Target hanging out my window...throwing up! People probably thought I was drunk!! I did get a bathing suit, though...success!!

Steven and I had a busy, busy weekend. Friday after he got home, we went to Home Depot. My mom had called me earlier in the day. She works at Walmart and bought us 11 shrubs for our walkway @ 50% off. She said we would have to run out and buy the weed paper and mulch. We bought 5 bags of mulch (what were we thinking??) and came home. That trip was $50. Steven rotatilled and my mom got home at 8pm with the plants. We put them in the ground, layed the mulch...surprise...we came up short...very short!! Saturday morning, we headed back to Home Depot. We got 12 more bags of mulch. Steven also got me 2 rosebushes...I love them!! That trip was $150. We came home and he mowed the lawn before we headed out to a wedding. Sunday morning, he resumed the gardening while I was at a bridal shower. I came home and the 12 bags of mulch were laid...STILL not enough. OMFG!!! BACK to Home Depot!! We got 10 more bags of mulch...and a bunch of other flowers and stuff because they were just so pretty! That ended up being over $200! So...my mom's nice gesture ended up costing us $400...good thing we got our stimulus check!!! Poor Steven has been resting and playing video games. This weekend ended up being a record setter for hot days. He was working in our yard in 90+ degree weather for 3 days...all for his dear ole' wife! What a trooper!!

If you can, please say a prayer for my friend, Jess. Her beautiful baby girl, Jenna Faith, was born 11 days ago and is suffering from seizures. So far the cause is unknown and they will not know anything until further testing can be done.

To the left, to the left...ovary.

My left ovary hurts. (I'm pausing so you can feel bad for me.) Anyway, ever since I began stims, my left ovary has burned. At first, it was constant. After awhile, it became less frequent. I still have days here and there where it hurts so bad, I could scream. So...I have self-diagnosed myself. It is mild OHSS. No, really. I knew it from the beginning, but refused to tell Dr. A because I was terrified of a cancelled cycle. After my beta, I was just too excited to worry about it because it seemed to be getting better. Now, I think I am going to come clean to Dr. S at my next appointment...just to make sure that it isn't serious.

Today was crap. We woke up today to a flat tire on our only vehicle. Steven went to get the spare out from underneath the truck and it was stuck. He assumed it was because of the lift that I get on to drive from my wheelchair. I waited until the lift manufacturer opened then called. Apparently, they had nothing to do with it...but our spare would not come off. So...we were stranded until my friend Katie got here. She took Steven and the tire to Walmart and he had them patch it. He missed the whole day of work. Ridiculous! I hate my car!!

I need to go somewhere and woo-saaaaaa until I am calm! BREATHE!!

Don't Mess With the Zofran

LOL, sorry...couldn't help myself. I want to see the new Adam Sandler movie, Don't Mess With the Zohan...thought it would be a funny title. But seriously, its true! Nobody mess with my miracle drug!! I am feeling human for the 1st time in 6 weeks...I like food again!! It was scary to know that I had actually lost 3 pounds. I knew the baby wasn't getting what she needed. I wasn't even getting what I needed. I felt so sick and so weak. I just wanted everyone to leave me alone to puke by myself. Very scary!

So...I got my diaper bag!! Very exciting! I saw it on eBay for $100. It is originally between $250-$300 normally, so I had to grab it up. It is a black, Juicy Couture bag and it says "Couture Baby" on the front. I can't wait to fill it up!!

We also got a bassinet. One of the big cheeses that Steven works for just had a baby boy. He brought in a barely used Eddie Bauer bassinet (white and tan) and gave it to us! I thought it was very nice of him and his wife to think of us like that. Anyway, it is in the nursery and it is just so neat to look at it and know that in 6 months, my baby will be in there! I am so emotional these days!!

Well, still waiting impatiently for my next appointment!! I will update again when something exciting happens!

Thump, thump, thump...

My appointment yesterday was great! I didn't have an ultrasound, but the doctor used the doppler and I heard the baby's heartbeat! It was amazing. Its one thing to see that there is a beating heart, but to hear it...what a blessing! It brought a whole new meaning to everything!

I also got my prescription for Zofran. OMFG! I couldn't be happier!! I can not believe how well it works. After 5 minutes of taking the 1st pill, I ate 2 tacos, chicken tenders, crackers, and took all my pills. And I felt fine. Now I'm getting ready to have pancakes and sausage for breakfast...OMG, BREAKFAST!!

Anyway, next appointment is in 4 weeks. That is when we will try the gender scan. Sooooo...I'm off to eat all day. Bye!!

Home is where the calcium is.

I'm home. The trip was good...just seems like there is never enough time to see everyone. We only spent a few hours with my dad. We got to see the new puppies...soooo cute! It almost made me want another one. Then I remembered what a demon Bianca is. I no longer want another one! I also didn't get to spend any time with my BFF, who was my maid of honor. I miss her and wish I could've seen her, but what can ya do?

Anyway, we did get to spend lots of time with Steven's family. We stayed at his brother's new house for 2 nights, which was fun. Sunday, we went to church (where we were married) and got to see lots of old friends. Steven's mom had a huge cookout. The boys played football and realized how out of shape they all are.

I am glad to be home. My calcium pills were not packed with my regular stuff, so I was chugging chocolate milk all weekend. I am not gonna lie...I hate milk. Maybe that's why I have osteoporosis. Hmmm. Sometimes I feel like I'm 80. At least I am an 80 year old who can still pull off a 2-piece baithing suit! That's really all that matters in life. LOL, for now anyway.

I have an OB appointment tomorrow. I can't wait to see how the baby is growing! I am also dying to ask if massage is OK again. I haven't been to my masseuse since February...I'm dying!! So, I'm off to rest. Will post pictures of the baby tomorrow after my appointment!

A much needed Memorial Day mini-vacation!

Steven and I are heading to NY again this weekend. It seems like we were just there...we were. I know once the baby comes, we won't be able to just pack up and leave, so it doesn't bother me to do it now. Anyway, we are leaving tomorrow after Steven gets home from work and we'll be home Monday night. I'm sure Steven will enjoy his Corona at the picnic his mom is having, so I assume I will be driving home while he sleeps. Woo hoo for being the DD...only 7 more months of that crap! We are not bringing Bailey on this trip. Ever since we got Bianca in November, he really hasn't been able to run the house the way he used to. Every time he even tries, Bianca thinks he wants to play and jumps all over him. Plus, he will enjoy the quality time with his Grandma. They used to be inseparable until she moved to Texas. Now that she's back, he is just so used to being with me 24/7. Now, let's hope I make it to the freeway before turning back to get him!

Thank you all for your support and suggestions about Bianca. I will surely try them. Earlier today, I was in my recliner and she took a kamakazi leap and went paws-first into my abdomen. She caught me off to the side and luckily it didn't hurt. I literally went psycho on her. I am not usually for animal abuse...but my motherly instinct picked all 50 pounds of her up and threw her about 10 feet off of me. Then I proceeded to use a string of profanity that would've gotten me grounded for a month, had I been in high school. She just looked at me like she didn't know whether she should run or petrify right there. If I can't find a way to control her, Steven is going to have to Bianca-proof half of the basement and she will be spending her days down there...at least she is out of the "puppy" phase and calms down a bit. The only reason I'm not rallying to throw her out on her ass is because my dad raises boxers and I know what wonderful family dogs they are as adults. I also know that her actions are all typical of boxer puppies. I just thought I could handle her better.

So, I'm off to pack. I may not update until Tuesday. If I don't, everyone have a safe and happy Memorial Day!

aaaaaaand...EXHALE!

As much as I have been trying to avoid it, the stress seems to be getting worse every day. Some of it has to do with the people I am around during the day, but most of it is from the dogs and the way that they interact with people...Bianca in particular. I keep trying to remind myself that she is only 8 months old, but sometimes she just gets me going so bad. She is a jumper. She will run and jump up on people whenever she feels like it. She weighs 50 pounds, and whether you expect it or not, she can just about knock you over. Sometimes she will run and jump up at someone's hands and nip at them. She doesn't bite, but it still hurts. She also runs at full speed and jumps all over the furniture. We have leather furniture and it is now covered in claw marks from her. No matter what I do, she won't stop. When Steven is home, she doesn't do it...she knows she can't do it around him because he wouldn't have it. For some reason, she is just so bad when she is with me. I'm sure its because she knows I can't get up to discipline her. I don't know what to do with her. Will it ever end??

The stress level during the day is starting to concern me. Sometimes when I yell to stop the dogs from being bad, it literally hurts my stomach. I need to calm down, but I can't very well let my dogs jump on and/or bark at everybody that comes here...if I do, it looks like I don't care what they do.

I think I need to start getting massages again. I used to go once a week during IVF and it really did chill me out. It gets expensive, but it might make all the difference with this pregnancy. Let's hope so. Right now, I am going to close my eyes and try to remove myself from this stressful environment...pray for me.

Officially just another pregnant lady!

My 1st OB appointment went great! He was awesome and very modern (unlike Dr. A...bless his heart!)...I had a few things cleared up. I can paint my nails, I don't have to eat organic, Lovenox is not necessary...among other things. The most important question I had was about the c-section. He said he was 100% supportive, but completely confident that we could do a vaginal delivery without putting the baby in jeopardy. He said if it were his wife and kid, he would go vaginal with forceps. I have always been very, very wary about forceps, but he told me all about how he teaches medical students at Case Western how to use them safely and effectively and has never had any negative results with them. He kind of sold me on the "if it were my wife and kid...". I always feel better knowing what a doctor would do in my shoes...because sometimes it changes their answer. I cried like a baby, of course. Just knowing that my baby will come into this world and be laid on top of me...what a huge miracle and blessing. God has been so good to us. Sometimes I feel so unworthy.

The most exciting part...he is attempting to find out the baby's gender at 14 weeks!!!! He said he has "his ways" and that he is very accurate! So...hopefully, the baby isn't shy and let's us sneak a peek! Can you believe it? That is only 6 weeks away!

Anyway...I am off to play some X-Box with Steven then watch Grey's Anatomy. I will be eating whatever I want, while giving myself a manicure! So, there!!

Had a scare...

Yesterday, I woke up very crampy. I didn't think much of it because Dr. A told me that unless it is accompanied by bleeding, it is common. I figured I'd just take it easy and it would go away. Around 12pm, I was going to the bathroom and noticed blood on the toilet paper. I freaked out and called Dr. A. He told me to come in for an ultrasound. After I hung up, I lost it...sobbing. I got my bearings and called Steven at work. I told him what was going on and he left to come pick me up. My mom was worried, so she decided to come, too. We got in there and I refused to look at the screen until somebody said "there's the heartbeat." I couldn't bear seeing my baby if she wasn't alive. After a couple seconds, the tech said "There we go." As soon as she said it, I felt the world lift off my shoulders. I let out a huge sigh of relief and looked up at the screen. I couldn't help by laugh at my little peanut...the heart was fluttering away at 167bpm! Then we got to see the baby move! It was amazing. After a minute, the tech got up and dialed on the phone. She says "I need a doctor in here to look at something." My guarded mind started going 100 miles a minute. Everything that could be wrong was going on in my head. The doctor came in and they focused in on a red and blue blob on the screen. Apparently, the colors indicate blood flow. It turns out that the baby was in transition between using the yolk sac and the umbilical cord/placenta for nutrience. The tech said that it is usually one or the other and they never get to witness the transition period...so they saw something new! Everything else looked fine and there was absolutely no indication of where the cramping or spotting came from.

Today, I feel great. No cramps, no bleeding, not too much nausea. Praise God that our baby is doing well. From now on, I will not be so worried all the time. I will be cautious but relaxed. I still have my first OB appointment tomorrow and I am very excited. Dr. A wanted me on bedrest until the bleeding stopped, and it has so I think I will be fine. So, I will be sure to update tomorrow about that...now I'm going to relax!!

Flintstones, meet the Flintstones...

So, I've switched to Flintstone vitamins from the yucky prenatals. With the folic acid and calcium that I also take, I know that I'm getting more than what I need. I am feeling better already. I am not really dry heaving anymore...I just feel crappy all day, but that's nothing new!

My mom's boyfriend is up from Texas, so we should have an eventful week. Let's hope my morning sickness lets up on me so I can enjoy it! Thursday is my 1st OB appointment, then the Indians game!! Hopefully the appointment doesn't last long. I also have a baby shower on Sunday, which I am very excited for! My friend lost a baby a couple years ago and now she is pregnant again. It should be fun shopping for baby gifts...I love doing that now!!

Happy Mother's Day!

Happy Mother's Day to all the mommys and mommys-to-be out there! I didn't even realize I was an official participant in today's festivities...until my wonderful husband handed me my card before breakfast. I cried, of course. I wasn't expecting it...we were just planning on cooking for my mom and doing her cards. It was very touching and I love my husband so much!

As for the rest of the day...yard work! Steven is mowing now, then we are going to cut down some more stray branches and bushes. Until he's done with the grass, I'm stuck inside with the dogs! I guess I should enjoy the relaxation. Lord knows it won't last!

My 1st OB appt...just another pregnant lady!

My 1st OB appointment is scheduled for Thursday, 5/15. I am excited to be treated like every other pregnant lady in the world! My cousin works in L&D at MetroHealth hospital, so she hooked me up with their best high-risk OB. Because of my paralysis, there is more to my case than just "get pregnant, wait 40 weeks, have a baby". I am hoping that he hears me out about opting for a c-section. I know I won't be able to push much, and I don't want the baby to have to do all the work during delivery. I have done a lot of research and I feel very strongly about it. We'll see what he says...not that it will change my mind.

Yesterday sucked!! I got sick in the car...while driving! Then I had to leave Babies R' Us because I felt queasy. I had a meeting to set up my WIC. So, I get there and start to get the lift out of my truck. I was halfway out, when the entire thing just died! So, here I am...hanging out of my car on the lift, with my chair completely locked in! I called Steven and he came with my other wheelchair and tools to fix the lift. So, I go into WIC and automatically get a headache from all the 16 year old moms screaming at their kids. I felt old and out of place. The appointment took about 2 hours. I got sick there, then hungry. I'm thinking "Take your time...I'm just dying of starvation"! Anyway, I finally got out of there, Steven had the truck all fixed. My mom had to bring fuses for him because apparently, mine were blown. I got home and found that my mom had made her famous mashed potatoes...my favorite! I hardly ate because I felt so crappy. After dinner, Steven and I watched Wife Swap and I fell asleep. Seriously, that had better have been the most dramatic and eventful day of my whoooooooole pregnancy! I can't do that again!!

I'm not feeling great today, but haven't dry heaved yet. Bailey is sick and threw up earlier...I almost tossed my cookies. Thankfully, my friend Katie took care of it for me! Now, I'm gonna go warm up some left over mashed potatoes and try again...wish me luck!

So we don't get pregnant??

Lots of people were curious about why we were told to use condoms. It was weird to me at first too, I should have clarified...sorry! So, semen contains prostoglandins, which can make the uterus contract. To avoid that, Dr. A told us to either use protection or have "non-vaginal" intercourse...EXCUSE ME! YOU GOTTA PAY FOR THAT, BUDDY! Anyway, as the wheels in Steven's head were turning and my BFF Katie was bright red and trying not to laugh, I said "OK...condoms sound good." So, that's how it went down! You learn something new every day!

I bled a little bit last night. I called Dr. A and his nurse said that as long as it doesn't continue, its probably just irritation from the ultrasound. I checked a thousand times last night and it seemed to be good every time. That was very, very scary to see.

We're having one spoiled baby!

We just got back from our first ultrasound! We saw one beautiful little heartbeat! I have never seen anything so breathtaking in my entire life. Praise God for this miracle!! The heart rate was 133 and they confirmed that my due date is Christmas Eve. At first, I was kind of surprised that there was only one baby, but also relieved. Now we don't have to split our love between two babies. This child is going to be sooooooooooo spoiled!!


I met with Dr. A after my ultrasound. He said that I can start seeing my OB now, because everything looks great. I am very excited, but sad too. I will miss everyone at my RE's office. He also said no more estrogen patches and that we can start baby-dancing again as long as we are protected...TMI, but its been awhile! Steven is very happy!

Steven and I were so excited, that we decided on names on the way home! If we have a boy, he will be Noah John. If we have a girl, she will be Hayden Rae. I can't wait to see which it is. I'm thinking pink!!

HAPPY CINCO DE MAYO!!

While we still can...

Steven and I are vegging today. We cleaned the house a bit then we had BK for lunch...for some reason I just can't give it up! Not to mention my craving for orange Hi-C. We also watched Alvin & The Chipmunks...soooooooo cute! Watch it as soon as possible!!! It was, by far, the cutest movie I've seen in a long time. Now we are visiting with friends...then its back to being lazy!!

Nothing comes between me and my cravings!

OMG! I am soooooo hormonal. I am really angry right now...over a chocolate milkshake! I went to the bank to use the ATM so I could go to McDonald's. I was having a major chocolate craving. Last month, my debit card was deactivated because I went more than 30 days without using it. So, I had them reactivate it, but it screwed up my PIN. Not knowing, I went to take MY money out of MY bank account and the ATM kept saying Invalid PIN. So, I called the bank. They said they can't figure out why it isn't working. They told me to go to the bank and re-PIN the card. OK...well, my bank closes at 4pm. I have to wait until tomorrow! I would just use my debit card at McDonald's, but I am terrible at balancing my checkbook, so I don't like to do that. Maybe its the hormones, but I am really pissed. This is the 2nd time in 2 months that my money hasn't been available to me. What a pain in the ass!! Thankfully, my mom gets out of work at 5...she will bring me my milkshake so nobody gets hurt!

I am so excited for my ultrasound on Monday! I am still crossing my fingers for twins, but one baby is certainly a miracle and a blessing from God. As long as there is a healthy heartbeat(s), I will be happy! I praise God every day for what He has given us. I know that whether it is a singleton or twins, it is what He thinks is best for our family.

**UPDATE**
Everything is going to be just fine...my mom is on her way with 1 medium chocolate milkshake! Thank God!!!

I feel like crap...thank God!!

Yes! I have felt sick on and off all day! That just sounds weird...sorry...never been pregnant before! Anyway, I think I am getting fatter. I haven't touched regular jeans since I was on stims, but I just look bigger. Maybe it is due to the change in my diet. I used to eat a couple times a day...lucky if one of those times was actually a meal. If it was, it was an Extra Value Meal from BK. Now, I am eating a ton. It is all healthier food and absolutely no caffeine (very proud of myself), but it is still more food. My main craving has been tomato juice...strange! But hey, it's good for me and the "babies"!

I used a Chinese Gender Prediction Calendar today and it says it's a girl! Yayyyy!! I hope it is right. I mean, if it's a boy, I will still be so thankful and happy, but I have always dreamed of having a girl. I guess we will know in about 14 more weeks. That seems so far away!!


Baby Gender Predictor

Home, sweet, home!

We're back!! We left late last night and didn't get home until 3:30am. I drove the entire way because Steven had to sleep. He had to be to work at 8:00 this morning. He folded down the 2nd and 3rd row seats in my Escalade and he and Bianca fell asleep watching Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium...while Bailey and I manned the front seats. Let me rephrase that...I manned, Bailey slept in my purse!! The only thing that kept me awake was thinking about my babies and how everything is going to happen. (I will continue to refer to them as babies until my ultrasound...last I knew, there were 2 embryos in there.) I am a dork, but I enjoy thinking about pregnancy, delivery, bringing them home, what they will look like, etc. This is my very 1st pregnancy, so it is all so exciting!!

When I got home, my package from motherhood.com was on the counter!! The jeans are sooooo cute and...drum roll...they fit!! Yesssssssss!! LOL, actually the plain pair might be "2nd trimester" jeans. They have a bulky section below the waistband for a bump. I have a bump, but it isn't very big. But the other pair...so cute!! They are very hip and fun. My shirt is also very cute. It is gray and has puffy sleeves. I think I'm just excited because maternity clothes are either cheap and ugly or expensive and cute...mine were cheap and they're cute!! Every one of you should hurry up and hit motherhood.com before the sale is over!!

I am a little worried today. Steven and my mom are both telling me that everything is just fine, but I can't help it...I haven't been sick at all today. Its pretty much the first uneventful day I've had since before my embryo transfer. My mom thinks my body is adjusting to the pregnancy because that is what happened to her. I'm sure she is right, but I really can't stop myself from worrying whether or not the babies are doing OK. I like feeling sick...it makes me feel pregnant.

Anyway, my mom and I are going to watch Enchanted and then it is soooooo bedtime! At least my fatigue is still a great reminder for me!! I will attempt to post a few photos from the trip tomorrow. I forgot my camera, so I am waiting for my dad to email the photos he took. So, I'll post them as soon as I get them. Later!!

Huh?! Sorry...didn't hear ya!

I am having ear issues. When I woke up yesterday, my left ear was completely clogged. Couldn't hear a thing. I don't really use Q-tips because they are bad for you and you are supposed to have some earwax, but I cleaned it out and I got nothing. Steven suggested putting a hot washcloth on it. It popped a little, but I was still not hearing well. My mom gets swimmer's ear, so she gave me some of the ear drops she uses. At first, it seemed like it was working...but didn't fully unclog. So now I am on to peroxide. My mom just ran to the drugstore for me. I really hope it works...this is frickin annoying!

I am packing right now. Steven and I are going to NY for the weekend. My little brother just got home (thank you Jesus!) from Iraq. I haven't seen him since my wedding in November of 2006. I miss him so much and can't wait to see him!! He is staying at my dad's, who I just adore. We have a blast together...never a dull moment!! He breeds boxers and that's where Bianca came from. She was last year's Christmas present to me and Steven. He has both the mom & dad, so Bianca will get to play with them. She has done a lot of growing since we saw them in January, so I'm sure they will all be so surprised!

Steven's mom also lives in NY and I just absolutely love visiting with her...and the rest of his family. Luckily, I do not have "monster-in-law" problems. I think of her as a 2nd mom and enjoy hanging out with her! She is a very faithful Christian, as I am, and I know I can go to her with any problems or questions I have and she will sincerely help me. I consider myself to be very, very blessed.

My mom is cooking us a nice, full-balanced meal before we go...otherwise it's McDonald's for the hungry pregnant lady!! Bailey, Bianca, and I are packed...Steven, of course is waiting until last minute! So, hopefully we will be on the road by 6pm, and be to my mother-in-law's by 11:30ish. That will give us the full day to spend with my brother tomorrow. We will probably split Saturday between the families. Sunday I am singing in church then we will hang with his family. Hopefully, we will head home Sunday around 5pm.

So, I may not be around for a few days, but I will be sure to update with pictures on Monday. Hopefully, I can have a weekend without morning sickness so I can enjoy my family! Have a good weekend!!

Beta #3...woot woot!

Beta #3 (20dp3dt) 2,634!! I am 100% reassured now and will not be returning to that lab anytime soon!! The blood testing is officially over!!! I am very curious about how many babies we've got in there!! I will be totally happy with 1, but I can't help but secretly wish for twins! With my disability, I know it would be a challenge, but God never gives us more than we can handle. I have faith in Him that He will do what is best for me and Steven.

I wasn't sick at all today!! I went shopping at Motherhood. Their jeans and sweaters are on clearance. They gave me a gift bag with Curel Pregnancy and Motherhood lotion, A Playtex Drop-ins bottle, and J&J baby lotion...along with lots of useful coupons!! Being pregnant is so cool!! I love free stuff!

My BFF and I went to a matinee today. We saw "Prom Night". I was alright, but nothing I'd watch again. It was one of those slow starters! We are counting the days until "Baby Mama" comes out. It looks too funny and might be educational...or maybe not!!

So, I am off to eat dinner and rest. It has been a pretty eventful and exciting day. I'm whooped and ready to lay down with my puppies and watch a movie!

Mo' pregnant, mo' problems.

I am grateful for every day that I'm pregnant...but I can tell this isn't going to be easy. I have been terribly nauseated, exhausted, bloated, and now we can add night sweats to the list. I've tried everything. I've slept naked, used no blankets, put ice packs on and around my head...still sweating buckets! I have to keep a towel next to me in bed to wipe the sweat off every 10 minutes or so. I have been having trouble sleeping because it feels disgusting to be drenched. This morning, I was so tired, but all I could think about is getting in the shower. I got up too fast and ended up sick and dizzy in the shower. I think it is the estrogen patches that are making me sweat at night. I called the RE and he said I can stop them as soon as we see a heartbeat. Thank God!! Only 2 more weeks of this insanity!

I also asked about beta #3. He said because beta #2 was so high, it isn't necessary to do another one. He said, however, if I would like to go in and have a 3rd for peace of mind, he would send the order to the lab. The needlephobic in me almost said no...but then the mommy in me punched her in her needle-hatin' face! So...beta #3 is tomorrow!!

Somebody shrunk my pants...all of them!

OK, at 5w2d, my pants don't fit. I have a pair of size small maternity jeans from Old Navy...well, they barely fit. Thank God I grabbed the wrong size jeans at JC Penny about 2 months ago. I keep having to wear...wash...wear them. Motherhood.com has some pretty good deals, so I got 2 pairs of jeans and a shirt. So, 3-7 more business days in these jeans, LOL!

Nothing else new...but I was never given a date for a 3rd beta. As much as I don't like having blood sucked from my arms, I am going to call tomorrow to make sure the Dr. didn't want me to go again. Hopefully, he says yes. I would definitely like the reassurance so I don't have to sweat it out until May 5th.

Beta #2...kicked its butt!

I had my 2nd beta today. I was told that they like to see the numbers double every 2 days. My 1st beta was 207...my 2nd was 620!!! I am so excited to be exceeding everybody's expectations! It makes me feel a little safer. I've spent a lot of time worrying about miscarriage and all the things that could go wrong. Seeing numbers like this make me feel like I can relax a little bit. I won't relax fully until my 1st ultrasound on May 5th. I can't wait to see the heartbeat(s)!!

My morning sickness is very annoying. I am not throwing up, but I feel nauseous pretty much all day long. I really hope it goes away soon so I can enjoy some of my first trimester!

I bought "Belly Laughs" by Jenny McCarthy today. It is so cute!! It is a tongue-in-cheek look at pregnancy...no bull!! It's kinda scary, but at least I'll be prepared for the good, the bad, and the ugly!! I have read quite a bit...I definitely recommend it!

I'M 26 AND PREGNANT!!

Happy birthday to me!! I got the call right after I got my sassy new haircut! She said the beta was nice and high...but I was so excited that I forgot to ask! I called back and it is 207!!! Yayyyyy!!!! Praise God for this true miracle!! Beta #2 is Friday, 4/18.

This is how I told Steven...I totally plastered his car in his work parking lot! I also put an "I Love Daddy" bib on the rear view mirror!

I am almost convinced!

I tested today...I have been every day since Friday. I was very worried because the lines were there, but not getting much darker. Today's test was much more convincing. The line is darker, thicker, and was there within 10 seconds!

I feel much better now!! Can't wait for my beta (and my birthday) tomorrow!!

Morning sickness?? (gag!)

OK, I may have experienced my first bout with morning sickness this morning. I got that yucky spit feeling in my mouth, and when I swallowed, I started dry heaving. Thank God nothing came out! As curious as I was about what morning sickness felt like, I am over it. Thanks for the experience...but BYE!

I got another positive HPT this morning! I am done obsessing about the darkness or lightness of the line because my cheap-o's suck! If I wasn't so cheap, I'd buy a digital. I will just use another cheap-o tomorrow then get the beta on Wednesday. Happy birthday to me!! This is honestly my first birthday miracle!

More worried than relieved.

OK, I caved. I took a home pregnancy test last night. Now, before I tell you the results...I know that anything is possible. Yes could mean no, no could mean yes. The real confirmation will be a nice high beta number.

With that said, the test was positive. I tested last night at 9:30pm and got a light line. I tested again this morning around 9:45am. It was still positive, but if you ask me, it was a tiny bit lighter. It has been over 2 weeks since my trigger, so I'd say it is gone. I know I can't expect a much darker line, seeing as how it was only 12 hours between the two. So, yeah...I guess it looks good!



I am staying optimistic, but am trying to be realistic as well. False positives happen all the time. I will feel so much better after my beta on Wednesday! Thank you all for your prayers...please keep them coming! God is being very good to me!

DUH! I almost forgot something very important!! We got a letter yesterday saying that we have 7 frozen embryos!! I couldn't be happier!

Keeping my mind off the test...

I have seen this on a few other sites and thought it would be fun. So, here's my little Flikr Fun survey!


My name is...




My relationship status is...




My favorite color is...




My celebrity crush is...




My favorite princess is...




My favorite adult beverage is...




My dream vacation is...




When I grow up, I want to be...




You knew I couldn't stop thinking about it for too long!

To pee or not to pee...

OMFG! This is ridiculous!! I am 9dp3dt and I may die before the 2ww is over. I have been crampy and feeling twinges of nausea here and there, but of course there are no telltale signs of pregnancy. And, I still haven't received my HPT's from eBay yet. Go figure.

This just solidifies what I have thought all along. God wants to give me this as a birthday present. What other explanation to all of this could there be? First, AF came on it's own for the 1st time in 6 years at the perfect time...I was only on stims for 7 days, my embryos developed wonderfully, just in time for a 3 day transfer...and my beta just happened to fall on my birthday. For some odd reason, I have felt such peace throughout this entire cycle. I really believe that God chose me to work this miracle on.

So, I will continue to fight the urge to test as I await my beta on Wednesday. Please pray for my strength. This truly has been the hardest part of the IVF experience for me.

In the 1 week wait...

OK, 1 week down...1 to go! I am officially 7dp3dt and I am so relieved to be at the halfway point! I am feeling pretty good. Last night, I started feeling very AF'y. That is good though...because those feelings are also symptoms of pregnancy...besides, AF isn't due for another week. I am 100% optimistic!

Steven and I have been trying to keep busy. We have painted our living room, kitchen, and hallway...now we are on to the dining room! Yesterday, my mom got us a new mailbox (early birthday present) because ours got hit by a snowplow and was looking pretty rough! So, we went to Lowe's and picked out a new one and I sat with Steven while he put it up. Next on our list: a screen door! It is so nice outside and we don't have the opportunity to open the door to let in the beautiful weather. So, I picked out a new screen door at Lowe's and hope to get it for my birthday!!

OK, I am off to give my Pomeranian, Bailey, a bath. Still waiting on those HPT's from eBay. Maybe they will be in our new mailbox today!! I still haven't decided whether or not I will use them...I'm leaning towards not POASing, but who knows? This 2ww is unpredictable!

What? I thought the hard part was over!

Why is it that everything post-ET is harder? You'd think that all the stuff we did to prepare the embryos would be the worst of it. You have the money issues, daily fetility drugs, hormonal outbursts (which I think I handled OK), retrieval, waiting, transfer, waiting...you get the point. I mean, IVF is just stressful anyway, but I kind of expected Steven and I to be able to stay calm during the 2ww. For some reason, that isn't happening. I am praying that we can relax and give these babies a fighting chance of sticking in there.

I am naughty. I bought a 5 pack of Early Detection Pregnancy Tests off of eBay today. They won't be here for a few days...and if I decide to test at home, I am going to hold off until at least 9dp3dt. Right now, I am 4dp3dt. So, maybe over the weekend I will decide. Outsiders are all saying "no...wait". As much as I am going to try, I am weak!! We'll see!

What IS that smell?

It could be me...I am afraid to get up. That means that I have not showered in 3 days! I think I might be starting to smell, LOL! Steven hasn't said anything yet, so I'm probably good. But then again, his only words to me for the past 3 days have been "How are you? How are the babies??" Its not that he is talking to me less...just that he is asking me the same question over and over! It is actually very cute. He even calls from work to ask about them. It makes me feel less stressed knowing that he is taking some of the worry load off of me! I'm a lucky, lucky girl!

So...I am feeling pretty good. My left ovary was a booger all throughout stims and after ER for about 3 or 4 days. Yesterday, I woke up feeling a little better, but still had that burning feeling. Today, I am at about 96%! The only bad thing is the bloating. It is getting better...but I look about 4 months pregnant right now. Yuck!! The only time I ever want to look like this again is when I am 4 months pregnant!

The 2 week wait is crap. It's been 2 days...I woke up thinking it was 3...then I counted. Only 2?? OMFG...how slow is this going to go? I was thinking about whether I would take a home pregnancy test before the blood test. I am torn because the blood test is on my birthday. I am visualizing a positive outcome, so it will be a great birthday present. But, on the other end, you know...

Anyway, I am still taking it easy in my recliner...probably get up to take a shower later. I just want to give my babies every chance to burrow in there! Because of my paralysis, I get muscle spasms in my legs, butt, and abs. The only thing that makes them stop is Percocet. It is a narcotic, so I stopped taking it when I began stims. I can deal with the pain of the spasms myself, but the ones in my abs got pretty bad yesterday. I visualized a ketchup bottle...when you squeeze, ketchup comes out. That scared me, so I called my RE and he said 1 Percocet every 4-6 hours is perfectly fine at this stage. It will not affect the babies. So, I took 1 yesterday and I didn't need another one, then I took another one late morning today. I'm a little reluctant to do it, but my babies need peace and quiet and that's what mommy is going to give them!

OK, my BFF is here with Subway! I bet my babies wish they had umbilical cords right now! Stick, and you'll get lots of good stuff!! OK, later guys!! Please keep praying for us!

The Terrible 2 are back at home!

Transfer is done. It went pretty well...although the RE overfilled my bladder. Nuff said. Anyway, we transferred 2 good looking embryos.

I think they're cute...look like their daddy!

They gave us this pic of them, along with the petri dish they were fertilized in. Cool ideas for the baby book! I feel pretty good. I am resting at home giving my little ones a chance to implant. I am set for my beta on my birthday, April 16th...pure coincidence...it is exactly 2 weeks from today!

2 embryos were frozen today and the other 8 will hang out a couple more days to make sure that they are good enough quality to freeze. We will be getting a letter in the mail...how personal! LOL, I am off to do nothing!!

P.S. Pregnant Guy is on Oprah tomorrow...this ought to be interesting!

The Dirty Dozen! (Part 2)

All 12 of my embryos are still alive and kickin!! I am so proud! The lab tech called today and said that they all look great and we are going ahead with a 3 day transfer. So, at 2:30pm tomorrow, I'm gonna go get knocked up!!

Today I am back to 100%. I haven't felt this good since I began stims, so it is nice to have a full day of feeling normal before transfer. So, I am up and moving...got caught up on laundry and shampooed the living room carpet! Now I'm off to shave my legs and paint my toenails. Gotta make a good first impression on my babies!!

Please pray for Steven and I.

The Dirty Dozen!

Well, the Clinic just called. After checking further for maturity, they were able to inject 13 of my eggs. 12 of them successfully fertilized!! I could not be happier! I said I would be happy with anything over 5 or 6...my babies went above and beyond!! There is obviously still time for things to happen, but 12 is a great start! I will get another report tomorrow between 9-11am. Please keep my embryos in your thoughts and prayers. I'll update as soon as I hear the numbers tomorrow.

I am feeling pretty good today. I began my Prometrium this morning to make a nice fluffy lining to put my babies back in. So far, no major side effects. Tonight I begin antibiotics to ward off any infection from yesterday's procedure and Medrol to assist in helping my little babies implant successfully. I am also very paranoid about getting OHSS, so of course every twinge is a symptom to me. I think the worst of it is just the bloating and tightness in my abdomen. I am trying to take it easy and just rest today with a bunch of good movies, so I think I'll be feeling better in no time!

Egg Retrival is done!!

All done!! As I expected, the IV was the worst part of egg retrieval!! It went in my hand and it really hurt!! Anyway, the procedure was a breeze...can't remember a thing. They got 18 eggs, 17 mature!!!! I am so excited about the number! I will get the fertilization report tomorrow morning, to see how many embryos we have to choose from. So, I'm off...movies to watch and a hand to nurse back to 100%!!

Bang, bang!

TRIGGER TONIGHT!! 8pm sharp!

I am sooooo excited! No more Lupron...no more Follistim!! My retrieval is scheduled for Sunday at 7am. I honestly can't believe I have made it this far. It's almost over. I want to say "thank you" to Jen, Tara, Morissa, Nancy, and everyone else that has commented with words of encouragement. Keep them coming...I wouldn't be here without them.

The Dirty (two) Dozen...

Just got back from my ultrasound. We have 24 big follicles!!! I am soooooo happy! I met with the RN after my blood work, which sucked bad because my arms are raw. She went over everything as far as what meds to take when, what to do before Egg Retrieval, ICSI, and everything else I need to know. She also tipped me off on a secret...she is almost positive I will trigger tomorrow night!! She said unless my blood or ultra sound shows a decline in anything, Egg Retrieval will be Sunday!! I meet with the doctor tomorrow at 9am to talk about everything and get a quick physical exam. She also told me to think about how many embryos we want to put back. Steven and I have already decided on 3, but she said to talk more with him because I have responded so well up to this point. We have to consider all 3 sticking and possibly splitting! Sextuplets? We are not Jon and Kate...we are Steven and Candi. Let's not confuse the two.

So...blood work, ultrasound, and physical exam tomorrow morning. Trigger tomorrow night!!!!!! Thank God I'm almost there!!

It's official...

...everyone is getting pregnant but me! At least that's what I thought when I saw this...

WTF, you ask? This dude was born a woman, had a sex change, but decided to keep his female reproductive organs. When he discovered that his wife was unable to conceive, he figured "I'll dust off the old uterus and do it myself." I am kinda grossed out by it, but whatever. I assume he will deliver by c-section...he gets my respect if he can manage to squeeze an 8 pound baby out of his weenie!

As for me, I had blood work today. The RN called and told me to increase my Follistim by "two clicks". I guess that's a medical term. Are we increasing or decreasing here? Make up my mind, people! Anyway, Steven did it when he gave me my shots...it ended up being about 96iu. Strange, but I did it anyway. So, blood work and ultrasound tomorrow at 8:15, then I meet with the RE on Friday to discuss everything. I think I trigger on Friday!! Woo hoo!!

We got follies!

I had my first ultrasound today. I have 9 follicles measuring in at over 10 on the left, and 12 over 10 on the right. There are at least 10 under 10 on each side as well. My endometrial lining is at 9. I am very excited, but still very worried about OHSS. I had my blood drawn as well, so I am sure I will be getting a call from the RN about what to do next. Thank you all for the prayers and words of encouragement...keep them coming!! I will update as soon as I know more.

UPDATE:
Reducing my Follistim to 75iu. More blood work tomorrow...ultrasound Thursday. Hopefully, I will trigger soon!

Umm...ouch.

OUCH!! I am in so much pain right now. My left ovary feels like it is on fire and it looks and feels like I have a softball in there. The right one is pretty tingly, but not too bad. I honestly don't think I can do this very much longer. I may not have to...had my blood work today. Dr. A's office called and told me to reduce my Follistim to 100iu and be there at 8:15 tomorrow for more blood work and an ultrasound. For some reason, I didn't get one today. Apparently the stims are working, though...since I am reducing my dosage. I just hope that I am almost done. I'm not sure if I can do this much longer. I am solely relying on the power of prayer...so throw one out there for me, please!

Does this Follistim make me look fat??

The stims are kicking in...and I am totally bloated. I have an appointment on Monday to check my levels, so that's good. I do not want to overstim. I am sooooo nervous about that. I know that getting OHSS could cancel my cycle. So, pray for my little follicles, please!

I went to Old Navy yesterday because none of my pants button at this point. 1st of all, their maternity section sucks! I wanted cute jeans with elastic on the waist...I got them, but I won't go back when I need real maternity stuff. Seriously? You call 6 articles of clothing a "maternity section"? Thank God I'm not bigger...the only pants they had were smalls. Not impressed!

On a happy note, the Easter Bunny came for me! LOL, I woke up and there was a big pink basket on the counter with a card from Steven. He is too cute...he never ceases to amaze me. Is it normal to be with someone this long and still be head over heels for him?! There is no doubt in my mind that I have chosen the perfect guy to have babies with!

Happy Easter!!

I find it rather stimulating...

I am officially on stims! Steven just gave me my 150units of Follistim and 5units of Lupron. I am so excited! To me, this is the big show...this is when all the magic happens! All the follicles I grow now will make or break this cycle. I have an appointment on Monday at 9am to see how the stims are working. So, here I go!! Makin' babies!

Steven was so excited to start stims. When he woke me up this morning, the first thing he said was "You know what we get to do tonight!" We don't do our shots until 7pm...this was at 6am. He's too cute. I am a lucky, lucky girl!!

Follicles, follicles, follicles!

I had my ultrasound today. I have more that 25 follicles on each side already! None are measurable, but there are already lots to work with! I start stims on Friday night. Then, I also bring my Lupron down to 5 units. Dr. A just wants to keep a very watchful eye on me so I don't overstimulate. So...lucky me...bloodwork and ultrasounds every day from Friday till egg retrieval. Oh well, gotta do what I gotta do!

UPDATE:
The Dr. just called. My Estrodiol level was 14.7...which is good. Anything lower than 80 is good. He also confirmed that I have PCOS, but is confident that I will be fine as long as we monitor my follicles closely.

Are we done yet?

Hey! Nothing much to report, but Aunt Flo is the world's worst guest! She is putting me in a bad mood! And she is giving me cramps and somehow making me fat! I think she's just mad because I am not letting her visit again for the next 9 months or so.

I had my baseline today. I didn't get the results yet because I didn't get to the lab until about 3pm. I have an ultrasound at 8am, so I will ask about my E2 then...like I even know what that means. Just smile and nod, Candi.

Well, just wanted to update and say that I didn't bleed to death...like I always think I am going to. I'm such a drama queen. My daughters will inherit that, I'm sure!

Things are finally going my way!

As I reported yesterday, I was spotting. Well, I woke up this morning and Aunt Flo had packed up and left...so I thought. I was really bummed. I thought that was it...and it wasn't good enough. I went to the bathroom this afternoon, and well...she came back with a vengeance! I have never been so happy to see her. I have my baseline bloodwork tomorrow then my ultrasound on Wednesday at 8:15. Everything is coming together perfectly!! I am truly blessed and so excited to get going. If everything goes as planned, I will start stims on Friday. Time is literally flying now! I'll be having egg retrieval sooner than I even know!

My mom is officially my roomie!! How awesome is that? She moved all the way from Texas and will be here to help me through IVF and pregnancy. She is my best friend in the whole world and I feel so blessed to be able to share this with her. Life doesn't get any better!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!

No way!!

OK, well...I started my period!!! It's only spotting, but seeing as how I normally don't get it at all without taking Provera, I am super excited! I'm pretty crampy but I'll take it! I just can't believe that it came on its own! I feel so accomplished!!!

New day, new worries.

I have a new issue. I am very nervous. As I have written in past posts, I do not get regular periods on my own. I have had 2 periods since going off of Depo-Prevera, and both were brought on because Dr. A prescribed Provera for me. I was told to call when I get it, so I can go in for blood work. Before I start my Follistim, this blood work has to be done. I was supposed to start yesterday, but I didn't. To be completely honest, I highly doubt I will. I haven't had a period on my own since October of 2006...when I went off Depo. I don't think now is any different.

I am worried that I won't start at all and my cycle will be cancelled. I called Dr. A's office and asked the NP what we are going to do if this occurs. All she could say was that "Lupron sometimes makes your period late." Well, that didn't help. How can it be late when it doesn't exist?? Has anyone heard of going through with IVF even though Aunt Flo never came?? I am so worried.

Seeing is believing...

It doesn't look that bad...but it is!



Needle-palooza!

Umm...wow?

OK, meds are here. If I wasn't such a talker...I'd be speechless! Actually, it worked out OK...some meds have to stay cold so they packed in an icepack. I was having a hot flash, so I saw the icepack and was like "how'd they know?" So anyway, we have the Follistim Pen with all it's lovely little cartridges and needles. That's in the fridge, next to the milk and the who-knows-what that's been in the Tupperware for at least 3 months. Anyway, then there's the HCG or "trigger shot" with it's ginormous needle...you want me to put that WHERE? Like, in my skin? It may come out the other side, but whatever. Then we have those lovely progesterone suppositories...for you-know-where (gag) and some weird antibiotics for after Egg Retrieval. I got some estrogen patches but the Dr. never mentioned them so I don't even know what I'm doing there. Guess I'd better call and ask. Either that or stick one on one of the dogs and see what happens. Very scientific!

All joking aside...when I opened the box, it was very overwhelming. I actually didn't know what to say. I knew what to expect, kinda...but to see it all laid out is definitely nothing you can plan for. Now that I have taken a second to breathe, I am so excited that its all here in my possession and its allllll mine!! Still about a week and a half before I start stims, but the important thing is that I have stims!! Bring it on!

And now, a word from our sponsor...

Last week, I was talking to another IVFer and she said she was using Visualization & Meditation during her cycle. She said it was really helping her keep her stress level down. So, I went to the Anji Inc. website and read everything. After I was convinced, I ordered Imagery and Meditations to Support In-Vitro Fertilization. It was kind of expensive ($24.95) but I heard and read such great things about it...I thought I'd give it a whirl. It was cool because you can either choose to have the CD delivered or download it straight from the site. Aside from being painfully impatient, I was putting it on my iPod anyway, so I downloaded it. I also made 2 copies on CD-R. One for me and one to leave with my masseuse.

There are 4 tracks:
Track 1: Hitting Your Mark. From Shots to Retrieval
Track 2: Rest and Rejuvinate. Between Retrieval and Transfer
Track 3: Baby's Sweet Spot! From Transfer to Implatation (Week 1 of 2ww)
Track 4: The Waiting Game. From Implantation to Pregnancy Test (Week 2 of 2ww)

I LOVE IT!! I usually don't really respond to things like this...I am too easily annoyed. I felt the difference right away! I even stayed relaxed! I felt a change in my body and feel a lot more in tune with it. I know I sound like an infomercial, but give it a try. I promise you will love it, too. I really think it is going to make all the difference with my cycle.

That's like, 2 Louis Vuittons and a Coach!

OK...it's official. The checks have been sent. The grand (ouch!) total... $8,525 plus $2,000 for meds. Steven did my Lupron injection while I was typing that last sentence.

I have been getting a little nervous. I mean, there is no turning back now. This is real! As excited as I am, I am starting to realize that all of this is going to happen to me and I am just trying to prepare myself for all of it. I never expected to feel this emotional during this process. Ugh...I have a feeling its only gonna get worse! Please pray...for my husband!

Case closed.

I just got a call from the bank. IVF is officially approved. The lawyer told them what was up. I'm not super surprised because she told me not to worry...but for those of you following this thing, the financial part is finally over. For real!

So...maybe I lied!

OK, I'm a liar! The Lupron is no "piece of cake". I had to wait for it to soak in before I could really know what the heck I just did!! No bruising...Steven is a master stabber, but the second shot did hurt more than the first. It makes me feel like its going right into my bladder. I have been reassured that it isn't...but I'm not convinced. Just wait until pee starts coming out of the injection sites!! Oh well, anyway...side effects, side effects, and more side effects. First, we have the ever so popular hot flashes. Fun stuff! Then there's the bloating, cramping, and did I mention hot flashes?? Ugh! Only 4 weeks until retrieval...then Lupron can kiss my booty!

Got a lovely email from the trust today. We've gone from "We just need to make sure it is ok legally." to "Well, the legal advice is helpful, but the trust committee will have the final say." Are they serious?? I was distraught for about 5 seconds...then my lawyer called. She said they can't deny it because the trust was set up to "make me whole". So, she told me not to worry and she also thinks it is time for me to give the bank the boot. She said that there is a different kind of trust that will be protected, but at the same time be easier for me to access. I say yay! Those jerks should've never messed with me...I'm hormonal!

Piece of Cake!

Well, my 1st Lupron shot is done!! It was no problem. Didn't hurt at all! Now my nerves are down and I can enjoy the excitement of what I'm about to do.

IVF Approved!

APPROVED...APPROVED!! LOL, the paralegal just called. They think it is a great idea and that this is exactly what the trust was made for!! I am crying tears of joy right now...just so happy that this whole ordeal is behind me. They even assured me that they would be putting fertility treatments into every trust they do from now on so nobody else has to deal with this in the future. The pharmacy will refund the money I spent on the Lupron. Now I can focus on getting my next positive...from a pregnancy test!!

LUPRON? Check!

Well, my Lupron has been paid for. BY US! Yup...we paid $195 out of pocket because the trust is insisting on taking forever to approve the IVF. They are such jerks...I am realizing how big of a mistake I made by putting my money in this type of an account. Well, what's done is done...and I bought myself two more weeks to fight. And it only cost me $195. Grr!!

Folic Acid x5!

I got a call from the RE's office today about my mock transfer and bloodwork from Wednesday. Everything looked good, but I tested positive for a folic acid deficiency. Its no big deal, but my body doesn't use folic acid properly. They upped my folic acid from 1mg/day to 5mg/day. They also want me on vitamins B6 and B12. Because this deficiency puts me at a higher risk for blood clots, they also put me on baby asprin. Minor speed bump...but it's all good!!

I'm still fighting for funding. I called yesterday and they told me they had to contact a lawyer to make sure that I am "allowed" to use my money for this "elective surgery". OK, yes...they refer to it as elective as if I have a choice!! Anyway, my mom is on the case now and she is a force to be reckoned with! Their best bet is to give me whatever I want, so nobody gets hurt! I'll keep you updated.

T Minus 10 Days!!

Today was my mock transfer (measurement of my uterus), b/w, and IVF Teaching! My uterus is 7cm from end to end...I'm sure you all were desperate to know that. LOL! The teaching was fun. I got to use a fake belly and stab it with needles!! Then I got stabbed, for b/w. BOO FOR B/W!! Anyway, I have a better idea of what I'll be doing. I start 10 units of Lupron on 3/2...a week from Monday. Lupron will put my body into "egg overdrive"! My RE is going out of town on the 14-18 of March, so I'm doing Lupron until 2/21. Then I will be doing Follistim and taking my Lupron down to 5 units. Follistim will stimulate the follicles that hold 1 egg each. My trigger of HCG will be done 7-10 days into Follistim. My estimated Egg Retreval is 4/1, APRIL FOOL'S DAY! After ER, I will do Prometrium vaginal tablets...YUM, Medrol, and Tetracyclene. My RE is looking at 3 day blasts, which means that 3 days after Egg Retreval, I go in for the Embryo Transfer. So, if all goes according to plan, my 2 week wait will be over ON MY BIRTHDAY!! I am so excited!!

The Clomid Challenge!

OK, the Clomid Challenge has officially begun! Wednesday, I had bloodwork done to check my Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH). The doctor called yesterday and told me that my levels were great. Thank God...now I know its a physical thing, not a hormonal thing.

Steven had a semen analysis and bloodwork today. Poor guy! He's been such a good sport through all of this. I am so lucky to have him. Seeing as how I am the infertile one, I sometimes think of how easy it would be for him to find someone else...to have a baby the easy way. He is always reassuring me that everything will be OK and that God will bless us soon. He is my rock.

So, I take my first dose of Clomid tonight!! I am doing 100mg per night, for 5 nights. Wednesday, I go for more bloodwork. Apparently, my FSH level should be up after the Clomid. That is the Clomid Challenge. If the levels aren't right, then my eggs are not viable. I pray that I am OK.

Wednesday is also the day we go for teaching! I think I get my Lupron that day, too! Thankfully, Steven is giving me all the injections. I hate needles, I could never do it to myself.

So, I will post updates as soon as I can. Wednesday through Friday, we will be doing the baby-dance as much as possible...lol! The Clomid will make me ovulate...I could possibly get pregnant from it. Please pray for me.