Good test results
Being a mommy is getting easier. Now that I am not so sleep deprived the world is looking like its usual beautiful self. My parents arrived this weekend and have been a great help to both Adam and me so far. Having them look after Ryan from 9 p.m. to midnight has been wonderful. Sleep has been great! In addition, it's nice to see that kitchen floors can be clean again and that meals consist more of "real food" than things like frozen pizza and meals that come in a can.
In addition to having the parents around, it was also good to have a quick blood test for Ryan on Tuesday, which consisted of one poke and not 10 to my cutiepie's arms. It was also great to find out the results were normal. No blood test for the little guy for another month. But, he had his first shot and screamed about that and was kinda fussy about it for the rest of the day. Oh well, the world can't be perfect all the time, but we can count our blessings, no matter how small.
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Friends are a good thing. Yesterday was a wonderful day for me. I got up and fed Ryan at 6, took a nap and then my friend Lyn stopped by with breakfast! We had a lovely time visiting together. We hadn't seen each other in probably a month, so it was nice to get together. We always seem to get togther over food, which, in pregnancy, was great and after pregnancy still is great!
While Lyn was here, Ryan pooped all over me. He'd taken a shot at daddy the night before, but missed. He's been on amoxicillin and I think it's given him explosive poopy. So, Lyn was lucky becuase I was just about to pass Ryan off to her.
Then, my friend Kristin came over. She and Vince are getting married in just a few weeks and they will be the godparents to little Ryan. She took me out to lunch at Backstreet Grill -- oh so yummy! And then spent the day with me. She fed Ryan while I pumped, chatted with me, helped me do grocery shopping and took me out for a DQ Blizzard!
Oh, and Kim visited also. It was great to have friends stop by. Mostly, it was good to have such a wonderful friend in Kristin who would take her day off to spend it all with Ryan and me. This is the kind of thing a new mom needs. It's good just to be with someone else and not all alone with baby for millions of hours (Adam worked both of his jobs yesterday and wasn't home until 9:30 p.m.)
And I can't forget my other friends who have written in response to my "On being a mommy" post. I need them to "be there" just as much as the people who are physically here. It's all about knowing people care and are there to support you, whether through a phone call an email or a promised meal if they could only be here.
And love is what joins us all in friendship. As my friend Merri would say, "Love is the egg in the hamburger: it binds us all together."
While Lyn was here, Ryan pooped all over me. He'd taken a shot at daddy the night before, but missed. He's been on amoxicillin and I think it's given him explosive poopy. So, Lyn was lucky becuase I was just about to pass Ryan off to her.
Then, my friend Kristin came over. She and Vince are getting married in just a few weeks and they will be the godparents to little Ryan. She took me out to lunch at Backstreet Grill -- oh so yummy! And then spent the day with me. She fed Ryan while I pumped, chatted with me, helped me do grocery shopping and took me out for a DQ Blizzard!
Oh, and Kim visited also. It was great to have friends stop by. Mostly, it was good to have such a wonderful friend in Kristin who would take her day off to spend it all with Ryan and me. This is the kind of thing a new mom needs. It's good just to be with someone else and not all alone with baby for millions of hours (Adam worked both of his jobs yesterday and wasn't home until 9:30 p.m.)
And I can't forget my other friends who have written in response to my "On being a mommy" post. I need them to "be there" just as much as the people who are physically here. It's all about knowing people care and are there to support you, whether through a phone call an email or a promised meal if they could only be here.
And love is what joins us all in friendship. As my friend Merri would say, "Love is the egg in the hamburger: it binds us all together."
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
On being a mommy
Okay, I am supposed to be taking a nap right now. I can't tell you why I'm not taking a nap. The most likely reason is because I wanted to write and since Ryan is sleeping, it's the perfect time.
This week has been a little tough for me. First, Adam went back to work on Monday, though he had been working his part-time job since Friday of last week. The first two mornings, I cried when he left. The thought of being alone with baby seemed overwhelming. I know that my job right now doesn't seem too difficult. The job description is to simply, love, diaper and feed Ryan and to take naps. How can that be so hard? It all comes down to lack of sleep. When you're tired, everything seems a lot bigger; more challenging.
On Tuesday, we awoke to find that Ryan had a yucky crusty, goopy eye. After calling the doctor we were scheduled to see her that afternoon. He also had to get blood work done at the hospital (they think he has hypothyroidism, but that it's because I had hyperthyroidism during pregnancy and that my meds may have given false readings on his tests at the hospital) so I thought I'd kill two birds with one stone and eliminate the doctor's appointment I was supposed to have today.
I arrived at the hospital with almost two hours to spare before the doctor's appointment, only to be late for that appointment because it took them what seemed like a million pricks in his tiny arms (they said they could collect the blood from his heel when we left the hospital last week) and about two hours. At first, I was with him. But because I almost passed out and was balling my eyes out thinking about how he was so little and how it must scare and hurt him so much, I sat wringing my hands in the waiting room for about an hour and a half of the two hour ordeal.
I wasn't happy when I arrived at the doctor's office to discover they had put the bandages where they attempted to draw blood from him on so tight that his arm was purple either. But, it was nice to be in the company of familiar faces. It's amazing how close you can feel to your doctor and the nurse after you've spent nine months visiting them. Ryan weighed 7 lbs and 9 1/2 oz at this visit, which is good. He's almost back to birth weight, so at least this breastfeeding thing is working, though I have resorted to pumping because we have latch on issues.
Anyway, the doctor came to look at his eye and said if it was infected he would have to go back to the hospital. That only got me crying more, which I think scared her a little and so the questions started about me and how I am handling being a new mom. And like I said, it all boils down to lack of sleep, but when I should be sleeping, like now, I can't and I'm doing other things like writing or watching television.
Today, we had to see a specialist for Ryan's yucky eye. He has a clogged tear duct that basically just needs some tender loving care. We left that office a little frustrated because Adam had lost a half day of work coming with me to be my emotional support and because it took WAY too long for them to see us. It's nice to know that Adam works with such nice people that when we got there they reassured us that while he may have been needed, they understand that family comes first.
On another note, my parents arrive this weekend. This means they can sit with me in the waiting room next week while Ryan once again has a blood test to check on his thyroid issues. And, I won't feel all alone while Adam's at work. I'll at least have my mom helping me figure out if I have Ryan dressed appropriately for the weather and that kind of thing.
Until then, I'll have comfort in the fact that other mothers understand some of what I feel. Babies are so little and we want the best for them and it seems hard to do just that, though I know I am doing what's best for him by tackling these medical issues right away. Being a mommy is hard, but it's so rewarding when you can kiss and cuddle your little one and know that he feels safe with you.
Okay, I am supposed to be taking a nap right now. I can't tell you why I'm not taking a nap. The most likely reason is because I wanted to write and since Ryan is sleeping, it's the perfect time.
This week has been a little tough for me. First, Adam went back to work on Monday, though he had been working his part-time job since Friday of last week. The first two mornings, I cried when he left. The thought of being alone with baby seemed overwhelming. I know that my job right now doesn't seem too difficult. The job description is to simply, love, diaper and feed Ryan and to take naps. How can that be so hard? It all comes down to lack of sleep. When you're tired, everything seems a lot bigger; more challenging.
On Tuesday, we awoke to find that Ryan had a yucky crusty, goopy eye. After calling the doctor we were scheduled to see her that afternoon. He also had to get blood work done at the hospital (they think he has hypothyroidism, but that it's because I had hyperthyroidism during pregnancy and that my meds may have given false readings on his tests at the hospital) so I thought I'd kill two birds with one stone and eliminate the doctor's appointment I was supposed to have today.
I arrived at the hospital with almost two hours to spare before the doctor's appointment, only to be late for that appointment because it took them what seemed like a million pricks in his tiny arms (they said they could collect the blood from his heel when we left the hospital last week) and about two hours. At first, I was with him. But because I almost passed out and was balling my eyes out thinking about how he was so little and how it must scare and hurt him so much, I sat wringing my hands in the waiting room for about an hour and a half of the two hour ordeal.
I wasn't happy when I arrived at the doctor's office to discover they had put the bandages where they attempted to draw blood from him on so tight that his arm was purple either. But, it was nice to be in the company of familiar faces. It's amazing how close you can feel to your doctor and the nurse after you've spent nine months visiting them. Ryan weighed 7 lbs and 9 1/2 oz at this visit, which is good. He's almost back to birth weight, so at least this breastfeeding thing is working, though I have resorted to pumping because we have latch on issues.
Anyway, the doctor came to look at his eye and said if it was infected he would have to go back to the hospital. That only got me crying more, which I think scared her a little and so the questions started about me and how I am handling being a new mom. And like I said, it all boils down to lack of sleep, but when I should be sleeping, like now, I can't and I'm doing other things like writing or watching television.
Today, we had to see a specialist for Ryan's yucky eye. He has a clogged tear duct that basically just needs some tender loving care. We left that office a little frustrated because Adam had lost a half day of work coming with me to be my emotional support and because it took WAY too long for them to see us. It's nice to know that Adam works with such nice people that when we got there they reassured us that while he may have been needed, they understand that family comes first.
On another note, my parents arrive this weekend. This means they can sit with me in the waiting room next week while Ryan once again has a blood test to check on his thyroid issues. And, I won't feel all alone while Adam's at work. I'll at least have my mom helping me figure out if I have Ryan dressed appropriately for the weather and that kind of thing.
Until then, I'll have comfort in the fact that other mothers understand some of what I feel. Babies are so little and we want the best for them and it seems hard to do just that, though I know I am doing what's best for him by tackling these medical issues right away. Being a mommy is hard, but it's so rewarding when you can kiss and cuddle your little one and know that he feels safe with you.
Sunday, May 21, 2006
A baby is bornRyan was born on Monday! While labor was by no means easy, it was quick, and I am glad to have our little bundle of joy at home. There's a very proud papa in the house who posted a huge sign outside our house announcing to the neighborhood that baby is a boy. I don't think it's really hit us just yet that we are both parents. It feels like we are doing some week long babysitting. I've had my share of roller coaster emotions this week. Adam left for work yesterday and I cried my eyes out because Ryan wouldn't latch on and he kept screaming for food. I cried when they took him to circumsize him. I was wicked excited when labor was over and that the hospital food was really good. And it's been fun to have visitors, even ones all the way from Illinois, even though they were only here for a little while.
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Update on baby
Monday marked my last day at work. While I am thrilled to be off of my feet, I do miss the interaction with customers and staff members. I feel a little spoiled by them and know that I work for and with wonderful people. Everyone kept asking when I was punching out, which made me a bit suspicious, but thankfully only a few people were around to wish me good luck (I really hate being the center of attention) and to give me a beautiful basket filled with items for Little McGee.
Tuesday was yet another doctor visit for me. This time I am about 2 1/2 cm dilated and 50 percent effaced (my how things change from doctor to doctor). I am confident that if I keep walking, Little McGee can still arrive on Adam's vacation week so the three of us have some alone time together to figure each other out. I also had a non-stress test yesterday. It was neat to see the contractions and the heartbeat charted on the machine.
Today, I get to go back to the doctor for a test they forgot to do and which needs to be done before I give birth.
As for my time off of work, I've created a list of things to do before baby arrives. I was told I won't get them all done, but at least I won't be bored and wondering what to do with myself. And if anyone wants to do lunch or anything, I'm game.
Monday marked my last day at work. While I am thrilled to be off of my feet, I do miss the interaction with customers and staff members. I feel a little spoiled by them and know that I work for and with wonderful people. Everyone kept asking when I was punching out, which made me a bit suspicious, but thankfully only a few people were around to wish me good luck (I really hate being the center of attention) and to give me a beautiful basket filled with items for Little McGee.
Tuesday was yet another doctor visit for me. This time I am about 2 1/2 cm dilated and 50 percent effaced (my how things change from doctor to doctor). I am confident that if I keep walking, Little McGee can still arrive on Adam's vacation week so the three of us have some alone time together to figure each other out. I also had a non-stress test yesterday. It was neat to see the contractions and the heartbeat charted on the machine.
Today, I get to go back to the doctor for a test they forgot to do and which needs to be done before I give birth.
As for my time off of work, I've created a list of things to do before baby arrives. I was told I won't get them all done, but at least I won't be bored and wondering what to do with myself. And if anyone wants to do lunch or anything, I'm game.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Yay for baby
Just a quick update to say that we are thrilled the ultra sound we had today showed that little McGee is head down. While I could identify other body parts, I had a hard time seeing the face adn fingers stuffed into his or her mouth, but Adam did not miss out and thought it was cute. I just couldn't figure out what it was I was looking at this time. Oh well, at least baby is ready to come out.
Just a quick update to say that we are thrilled the ultra sound we had today showed that little McGee is head down. While I could identify other body parts, I had a hard time seeing the face adn fingers stuffed into his or her mouth, but Adam did not miss out and thought it was cute. I just couldn't figure out what it was I was looking at this time. Oh well, at least baby is ready to come out.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Bummed about a little bum
So, today was the weekly doctor visit that I so look forward to, especially knowing that baby can make an appearence any day now. I think I'd rather have gone on blissfully thinking about my last visit than have the news I had today. I now know how my friend Sarah felt after being 3 cm for weeks only to be told on her last visit she was only 1 cm dilated (she gave birth that same evening).
So, what was the news that was so disappointing. Well, not only have I regressed in the dilation department, from 2 cm last week to only 1 cm this week, my doctor is almost sure that Little McGee has his bum in the downward position, rather than his head. *Sigh* As she was feeling my belly today, that's the last thing I expected her to say. And after an internal exam, she still felt the same way. So, that hard lump we've all been touching, thinking it's the baby's back or something, might very well bed the head. I hope we haven't dented it or anything of the sort.
On Thursday, I make my way to the hospital to have them do a position check via ultra sound. Here's hoping the doctor is wrong. Needless to say, I am bummed that baby's bum might be in the wrong direction. As I drove home, I thought about it all, the possiblity of a c-section and how this was the one thing I feared, knowing my grandmother's babies were all breech babies.
I guess there's no use worrying about it, especially since we'll know in a few days where little baby rests. Until then, I go to work and hope for a good day.
So, today was the weekly doctor visit that I so look forward to, especially knowing that baby can make an appearence any day now. I think I'd rather have gone on blissfully thinking about my last visit than have the news I had today. I now know how my friend Sarah felt after being 3 cm for weeks only to be told on her last visit she was only 1 cm dilated (she gave birth that same evening).
So, what was the news that was so disappointing. Well, not only have I regressed in the dilation department, from 2 cm last week to only 1 cm this week, my doctor is almost sure that Little McGee has his bum in the downward position, rather than his head. *Sigh* As she was feeling my belly today, that's the last thing I expected her to say. And after an internal exam, she still felt the same way. So, that hard lump we've all been touching, thinking it's the baby's back or something, might very well bed the head. I hope we haven't dented it or anything of the sort.
On Thursday, I make my way to the hospital to have them do a position check via ultra sound. Here's hoping the doctor is wrong. Needless to say, I am bummed that baby's bum might be in the wrong direction. As I drove home, I thought about it all, the possiblity of a c-section and how this was the one thing I feared, knowing my grandmother's babies were all breech babies.
I guess there's no use worrying about it, especially since we'll know in a few days where little baby rests. Until then, I go to work and hope for a good day.
Monday, May 01, 2006
Predictions about baby
This weekend was a busy one. Adam and I worked to create new cages for the guinea pigs. We finally finished last night around 10:30 and put them inside. Harry was really happy to be wedged in a cage between the girls and the boys and everyone seems happy with their new place. Now, to paint the room they were living in and clean it up (they are in the basement now).
We spent some time on Saturday at Nick and Vanessa's place working on their basement renovations. I didn't do any of the work, but the guys worked really hard. They hope to have it done next weekend, but I think they always under estimate the time it takes to do the work.
One common theme this weekend were the predictions of when I'll go into labor. Vanessa will be in New York next weekend, so she predicts May 7 as the day Little McGee will make an appearence in the world. Nick says May 10 (a number I think that was randomly picked out of a hat). My mother-in-law simply says I'll go into labor a week early, to coincide with Adam's vacation. My friend Sarah simply says it will be earlier than later. And my friend Lyn gave the best prediction, but I think she's wrong on a few aspects. Lyn says I'll have baby on week early, it will be a boy, weigh 7 lbs 7 oz and be 21 inches long. I don't know who will be right, but I'll certainly have an update tomorrow after my very early morning doctor's appointment.
This weekend was a busy one. Adam and I worked to create new cages for the guinea pigs. We finally finished last night around 10:30 and put them inside. Harry was really happy to be wedged in a cage between the girls and the boys and everyone seems happy with their new place. Now, to paint the room they were living in and clean it up (they are in the basement now).
We spent some time on Saturday at Nick and Vanessa's place working on their basement renovations. I didn't do any of the work, but the guys worked really hard. They hope to have it done next weekend, but I think they always under estimate the time it takes to do the work.
One common theme this weekend were the predictions of when I'll go into labor. Vanessa will be in New York next weekend, so she predicts May 7 as the day Little McGee will make an appearence in the world. Nick says May 10 (a number I think that was randomly picked out of a hat). My mother-in-law simply says I'll go into labor a week early, to coincide with Adam's vacation. My friend Sarah simply says it will be earlier than later. And my friend Lyn gave the best prediction, but I think she's wrong on a few aspects. Lyn says I'll have baby on week early, it will be a boy, weigh 7 lbs 7 oz and be 21 inches long. I don't know who will be right, but I'll certainly have an update tomorrow after my very early morning doctor's appointment.
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